There is nothing nicer during these warm evenings in our small corner of paradise than to sit back and enjoy a movie in an open air setting.

Monaco provides a stunning location on le Rocher as does Villefranche-sur-Mer in the Citadelle and this year Nice has excelled itself by offering open air cinema in four locations including, like last year, the Port of Nice, a great location too.

It goes without saying that the most luxurious is Monaco’s open air cinema. Here you will find seating arranged by comfort level from chairs to loungers with side tables and sofas. A bar is not far away. The programme is old style, commercials and shorts together with a main feature. Bring a sweater or some light covering as it can become a little cool even on the balmiest of our evenings. Access by car is very easy, just take the lower road to the right of the port to the Pecheurs car park and from there take the elevators up into the complex.

More information can be found at cinemas2monaco.com

Photo courtesy Cinemas2Monaco

For a cool location it is difficult to beat the amazing Citadelle in Villefranche-sur-Mer as it is inside an amazing fortress dating back to the 15th century, complete with drawbridge. It is living, breathing history. The seating is not as luxurious as Monaco though the setting and atmosphere makes up for that for sure. Again, take something in case it becomes a little chilly. Parking can be found around the Citadelle itself or in the town. It can be very busy.

More information can be found here.

The Port of Nice will again be hosting some cinema with the addition of Parc du Ray, Place Saint Rock and Square Alphonse Daudet. These are small venues and benefit greatly from the intimacy this affords. Another amazing fact is that they are free which means first come first served, there is always a downside!

More information can be found at moneteanice.fr

Photo courtesy Ville de Nice

For people who are not French speakers, or up to the standard of watching a full movie, then look for VO (version original). To be honest, watching a movie in the open air for a couple of hours and not understanding a single word is still, in my view, an evening pleasantly past.

The information provided is sometimes subject to change so do check out the web pages especially how to get there.

It is a terrific experience, hopefully one of many!

Lead image by Jeremy Yap on Unsplash; all other photos as credited