January 2013
Born in Nice, artist Emmanuel Régent presents the last of four parts of an exhibition cycle at the contemporary art museum. This cycle, entitled "Sortir de son lit en parlant d'une rivière", reveals the artist's different techniques and is on show until 27 January (mamac-nice.org).

December 2012
The St Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral is just one of many Russian attractions in the city. It was built in 1912 by Tsar Nicolas, at a time when the Russian aristocracy used Nice as a balmy getaway, leaving their indelible mark on the Riviera city.

April 2013
Standing next to the shady arcades of Place Ile Beauté is the church of Notre-Dame du Port. This fine neoclassical building with its elegant columns was constructed between 1840 and 1853 and is topped by a statue of the Virgin Mary.

January 2013
Running from the 17-27 January, the 37th Monte Carlo Circus Festival presents a world-class line-up of circus acts from all four corners of the globe. Not only a spectacle but a competition that sees international guests competing for coveted prizes including the Clown d'Or (montecarlofestivals.com).

April 2013
Cruise over to Île Sainte Marguerite, the largest of the Lérins Islands, which lie just off the coast of Cannes. Boats leave each day at 9am and return by 7pm (from the Vieux Port in either Nice or Cannes), and the short sail along the coast makes for a refreshing day out. The island is perfect for relaxing or watersports. www.trans-cote-azur.com

January 2013
Medieval Vence was once home or inspiration to artists and writers, including Matisse, Dufy, DH Lawrence, and the birthplace of Chagall. Today it retains a natural charm with its beautifully preserved village, set within ramparts. The 17th-century castle and cathedral, with its vault exquisitely decorated by Matisse himself, offer visitors a spectacle of history minutes from the Cote D'Azur's coastline. Foodies should stop in nearby St Paul de Vence, where a host of local Provencal restaurants can be found (vence.fr).