Marseille has two main parks with beautiful assets. The Parc Borély and its castle, near the racecourse. During our walks, the children love to ride the electric car, feed the ducks and geese. A sublime rose garden is also a must. On the nature side, the Campagne Pastré is more authentic and offers a space of more than one hundred hectares. The sportsmen can train while the families meet there for big birthday parties around the beautiful Bastide from the XIXth century. Finally, some can also take riding lessons.
La Joliette is an evolving district thanks to the construction of the Terrasses du Port shopping center or the MuCEM museum (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations) with its art and history exhibitions, or for its surprising views over the city. La Joliette is also the departure point for various ferries going to Corsica or Morocco for example.
To get away from it all, take the shuttle bus for about 15 euros each way to the Old Port of Marseille which will take you to the Frioul Islands. Many rentals are possible including Airbnb. You will enjoy the wild creeks, the magnificent sunsets and views of Marseille or visit the Château d’If, which inspired Alexandre Dumas for his novel The Count of Monte Cristo.
To meet the artists, you can choose between the Friche La Belle de Mai or the Cours Julien. Shows, concerts, restaurants, animations, street art or exhibitions are regularly held there, making it friendly and animated.
Finally, organize a day in the Calanques. Several buses can drop you off at different points from where you can start your hikes and go to the Calanques of Sormiou, Morgiou or En-Vau for example. Take enough water, sunscreen and good walking shoes.
Our little pleasure? We go to Les Goudes for a small evening in one of the restaurants (book beforehand!) or just come and watch the sunset over the Château d’If and the island of Frioul.
Cannes
Cannes attracts many tourists because of its luxury shops, the steps of the Festival with its red carpet and its Croisette. It is good to stroll with the wind, sunglasses on. You can choose to be chic or go to the beach!
From the Old Port, take the shuttle to the Lèrins Islands and find a sunbathing spot on a cove, or visit the Musée de la Mer at Fort Royal if you have some time left!
In the hinterland, Grasse is where perfume factories Fragonard, Molinard or Galimard are located. During your visit to Galimard, you can create your personalized perfume.
$350ⓘMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$350Total$350Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Milesopedia first-year estimateⓘFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$350Total$350Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
With this welcome offer for the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card +* CardMC, you’ll earn 25,000 welcome bonus Scene+ points after charging $2,000 in purchases to your account within the first three months.
Plus, every year, earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points when you charge at least $40,000 in purchases to your account. In total, the offer represents up to 35,000 Scene+ points and a value of up to $1,250 in the first year, including rewards, savings on foreign transaction fees and airport lounge access.
With the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card, you earn 3 points per $1 spent at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland and participating Co-ops, and 2 points per $1 spent at other grocery stores, restaurants, eligible entertainment and eligible daily transit. You earn 1 point per $1 on all your other everyday purchases.
These points can be redeemed against any travel purchase at a rate of 1,000 points = $10 (flights, hotels, all-inclusives and even Airbnb), or as cash back with Scene+ at the same rate.
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card also offers:
No fees for foreign currency transactions
6 complimentary airport VIP lounge passes
Excellent insurance for your travels and purchases
Visa Infinite* Concierge Services
We have named this credit card the Best Credit Card with No Foreign Transaction Fees in 2024, 2025, and 2026.
Legal
* The potential value of savings and rewards during the first 12 months includes the value of the welcome offer, the potential value of points earned in the first year, the value of savings on foreign currency transaction fees and the cost of airport lounge access as of May 22, 2026:
$250 in travel rewards (25,000 bonus Scene+ points) for new Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite +* Cardholders who charge $2,000 in purchases to their account within the first three (3) months;
$100 in travel rewards (10,000 bonus Scene+ points) for cardholders who charge $40,000 in purchases to their account;
$50 in savings from the annual fee waiver on the first additional card for new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit card account holders;
$132 in savings on foreign currency transaction fees based on the average amount of foreign currency purchases made per active account over the past 24 months (by saving on the 2.5% foreign currency transaction fees typically charged by other credit card issuers);
$364 representing the potential value of points earned in the first year (36,400 Scene+ points) based on the average amount of purchases made per active account over the past 24 months, assuming an average spend of 21% of purchases in categories eligible for accelerated earn rates of 2X and 3X points;
$358 representing the value of complimentary membership in the Visa Airport Companion program which includes 6 airport lounge passes (based on « Preferred » membership valued at approximately $357 CAD/$259 USD). Based on the exchange rate in effect on May 22, 2026.
Maximum potential value after the first year = $1,254 (rounded to $1,250)
The actual value of offers, savings realized and points earned will vary depending on card usage and eligibility for applicable offers. Conditions apply.
1 Offer description and conditions: The 25,000 Scene+ points offer (the « offer ») applies only to new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit card accounts (the « accounts ») opened between August 4, 2026 and November 1, 2026 (regardless of the date you apply for the account) subject to the conditions below. The offer may be modified, cancelled or extended at any time without notice, and it cannot be combined with any other offer.
In addition, as a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Cardholder, you are eligible for an annual bonus of 10,000 Scene+ points if you charge at least $40,000 in eligible everyday purchases to your Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card account over the course of one year. Conditions apply; see below for more details.
Description and conditions of the 25,000 bonus Scene+ points offer: To be eligible for the 25,000 bonus Scene+ points offer (« 25,000 bonus points »), you must charge at least $2,000 in total eligible purchases to your account within the first three months following the account opening date.
Conditions for the annual 10,000 Scene+ points bonus: As a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit cardholder, you can earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points (the « annual points bonus ») if you charge at least $40,000 in eligible purchases to your account over the course of one year (12-month period). The annual period begins on the account opening date; a new period starts again every twelve months thereafter. If you replace another Scene+-eligible credit card with the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card (i.e., it is not a new card or an additional card), the opening date of your original account will be carried over to your new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card account and your annual period under this offer will begin on the next anniversary date of your original account opening. For example, if you originally opened a Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card account on January 15, 2022 and you switch to the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card on July 15, 2025, your annual period under the 10,000 Scene+ points annual bonus offer will begin on January 15, 2026 (your next anniversary date) and a new period will start again on January 15 each year thereafter. You will earn 2,000 bonus Scene+ points for each additional $10,000 in purchases made during the same year once you have reached the $40,000 annual purchase threshold.
Eligible purchases means purchases, less refunds, returns and any other similar credits, and excludes payments, cash advances (including balance transfers and quasi-cash transactions), interest charges, as well as card fees and other fees.
Fulfillment of the annual points bonus: Bonus points will be credited within approximately eight weeks after you become eligible for a bonus, provided the account is open and in good standing. In the case of a joint account with a primary borrower and a co-borrower, bonus points will be credited as follows: (i) the 25,000 bonus points and the annual points bonus will be credited to the Scene+ account linked to the account of the borrower who made the transaction that reached the eligible purchase threshold ($2,000, or $40,000) within the appropriate timeframe (the first three months, or the first 12 months). If an additional cardholder makes the transaction that reaches the eligible purchase threshold for the 25,000 bonus points, or the annual points bonus, the bonus points will be credited to the Scene+ account linked to the primary borrower’s account. It is possible to transfer points between the Scene+ accounts of a primary borrower, a co-borrower or an additional cardholder by contacting Scene+. An account is in good standing if it is not past due, there is no over-limit, and the cardholder(s) have complied with the terms of the Revolving Credit Agreement that applies to the account. All other program conditions continue to apply during the offer period.
Offer eligibility and exclusions: You cannot take advantage of the offer if you are currently a primary or secondary cardholder of a Scotiabank personal credit card or have been one in the past two years, including if you transfer your balance from an existing Scotiabank personal credit card account, and if you are a Scotiabank employee. Subject to the exclusions mentioned above, small business credit cardholders are eligible for this offer.
Rates and fees: The annual fees are $150 for the primary card, $0 for the first additional card and $50 for each additional card thereafter (including those issued to joint account holders and additional cardholders). The preferred annual interest rates applicable to the account are as follows: 20.99% on purchases and 22.99% on cash advances (including balance transfers and quasi-cash transactions). The rates, fees, and features and benefits, which are described in the disclosure statement accompanying the application, may be changed.
Annual fee
Primary card$150
Additional card$50
Annual income required
Individual$60,000
Household$100,000
Conversion fees
0%
Earning rate
2xGroceries
2xRestaurants
2xTransit
2xEntertainment
1xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$650
2nd Year Value$397
Card benefits
Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$240
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $1,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $1,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $1,000,000 / 3 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $2,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $1,000
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days
Nice
It’s hard to find such an atmosphere anywhere else around the world. Some will find that Nissa la Bella has a Miami feel, with its Art Deco buildings. The city is loved for its Promenade des Anglais, its old quarter, its old coloured streets.
The Parc du Mont Boron will give you a breathtaking view of the bay of Nice. The people of Nice generally come here to get a bit of fresh air on its plateau and near the Casteu waterfall on hot summer days. You will be able to attend the traditional midday gunfire on the castle hill which has been giving the exact time to the people of Nice since 1861.
There are several options for getting up there. The easiest way is to take the free lift from the bottom of the ledge to Rauba Capeu. For the more athletic, the ascent can be done in an hour by the steps on the seaside. A small train also makes the ascent. Finally, free parking is available in the heights on Montfort and Eberlé streets, but you should arrive early.
Examples of activities or points of interest to visit
Start your visit from the unique hotel Negresco and have coffee at the Rotunda. The room is richly decorated and represents a carousel. Then get on a blue bike and ride along the Promenade des Anglais bike path to the port of Nice to get to the Vieux-Nice.
The Cours Saleya is lively from morning to night, with its fruit and vegetable market and craft market in the evening, its restaurants and bars. Stroll through the narrow streets of the old town to one of the ice cream parlours in Piazza Rossetti, Fenocchio’s (a huge choice of flavours) or Azzurro’s (homemade cone).
Our little pleasure? Ending our evening in one of the bars in the old town of Nice, like at the Distilleries!
The city has done a lot in recent years to suit families with its « coulée verte » for example, which runs along a good part of the center, its new tramway from the airport to the port.
The « coulée verte » – or Promenade du Paillon – offers children’s games and water games, a beautiful walk in the center of Nice. The old carousel called Palace of Nice still attracts many families, and events are regularly held on the square such as jazz concerts, and the Christmas Village in winter with its stands and its ice rink.
A Ferris wheel on the Place Masséna also allows you to admire the expanse of the Bay of Angels and the various points of interest in the city. For more information on activities and festivities in Nice, visit the RécréaNice website.
Small aside. The Church of St. Pierre d’Arène is where we were married. It has the distinction of being very lively and proactive in the community. Many events and exhibitions take place there. One day a year is set aside, for example, for blessing pets. Rather atypical, isn’t it?
$350ⓘMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$350Total$350Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Milesopedia first-year estimateⓘFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$350Total$350Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
With this welcome offer for the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card +* CardMC, you’ll earn 25,000 welcome bonus Scene+ points after charging $2,000 in purchases to your account within the first three months.
Plus, every year, earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points when you charge at least $40,000 in purchases to your account. In total, the offer represents up to 35,000 Scene+ points and a value of up to $1,250 in the first year, including rewards, savings on foreign transaction fees and airport lounge access.
With the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card, you earn 3 points per $1 spent at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland and participating Co-ops, and 2 points per $1 spent at other grocery stores, restaurants, eligible entertainment and eligible daily transit. You earn 1 point per $1 on all your other everyday purchases.
These points can be redeemed against any travel purchase at a rate of 1,000 points = $10 (flights, hotels, all-inclusives and even Airbnb), or as cash back with Scene+ at the same rate.
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card also offers:
No fees for foreign currency transactions
6 complimentary airport VIP lounge passes
Excellent insurance for your travels and purchases
Visa Infinite* Concierge Services
We have named this credit card the Best Credit Card with No Foreign Transaction Fees in 2024, 2025, and 2026.
Legal
* The potential value of savings and rewards during the first 12 months includes the value of the welcome offer, the potential value of points earned in the first year, the value of savings on foreign currency transaction fees and the cost of airport lounge access as of May 22, 2026:
$250 in travel rewards (25,000 bonus Scene+ points) for new Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite +* Cardholders who charge $2,000 in purchases to their account within the first three (3) months;
$100 in travel rewards (10,000 bonus Scene+ points) for cardholders who charge $40,000 in purchases to their account;
$50 in savings from the annual fee waiver on the first additional card for new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit card account holders;
$132 in savings on foreign currency transaction fees based on the average amount of foreign currency purchases made per active account over the past 24 months (by saving on the 2.5% foreign currency transaction fees typically charged by other credit card issuers);
$364 representing the potential value of points earned in the first year (36,400 Scene+ points) based on the average amount of purchases made per active account over the past 24 months, assuming an average spend of 21% of purchases in categories eligible for accelerated earn rates of 2X and 3X points;
$358 representing the value of complimentary membership in the Visa Airport Companion program which includes 6 airport lounge passes (based on « Preferred » membership valued at approximately $357 CAD/$259 USD). Based on the exchange rate in effect on May 22, 2026.
Maximum potential value after the first year = $1,254 (rounded to $1,250)
The actual value of offers, savings realized and points earned will vary depending on card usage and eligibility for applicable offers. Conditions apply.
1 Offer description and conditions: The 25,000 Scene+ points offer (the « offer ») applies only to new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit card accounts (the « accounts ») opened between August 4, 2026 and November 1, 2026 (regardless of the date you apply for the account) subject to the conditions below. The offer may be modified, cancelled or extended at any time without notice, and it cannot be combined with any other offer.
In addition, as a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Cardholder, you are eligible for an annual bonus of 10,000 Scene+ points if you charge at least $40,000 in eligible everyday purchases to your Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card account over the course of one year. Conditions apply; see below for more details.
Description and conditions of the 25,000 bonus Scene+ points offer: To be eligible for the 25,000 bonus Scene+ points offer (« 25,000 bonus points »), you must charge at least $2,000 in total eligible purchases to your account within the first three months following the account opening date.
Conditions for the annual 10,000 Scene+ points bonus: As a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit cardholder, you can earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points (the « annual points bonus ») if you charge at least $40,000 in eligible purchases to your account over the course of one year (12-month period). The annual period begins on the account opening date; a new period starts again every twelve months thereafter. If you replace another Scene+-eligible credit card with the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card (i.e., it is not a new card or an additional card), the opening date of your original account will be carried over to your new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card account and your annual period under this offer will begin on the next anniversary date of your original account opening. For example, if you originally opened a Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card account on January 15, 2022 and you switch to the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card on July 15, 2025, your annual period under the 10,000 Scene+ points annual bonus offer will begin on January 15, 2026 (your next anniversary date) and a new period will start again on January 15 each year thereafter. You will earn 2,000 bonus Scene+ points for each additional $10,000 in purchases made during the same year once you have reached the $40,000 annual purchase threshold.
Eligible purchases means purchases, less refunds, returns and any other similar credits, and excludes payments, cash advances (including balance transfers and quasi-cash transactions), interest charges, as well as card fees and other fees.
Fulfillment of the annual points bonus: Bonus points will be credited within approximately eight weeks after you become eligible for a bonus, provided the account is open and in good standing. In the case of a joint account with a primary borrower and a co-borrower, bonus points will be credited as follows: (i) the 25,000 bonus points and the annual points bonus will be credited to the Scene+ account linked to the account of the borrower who made the transaction that reached the eligible purchase threshold ($2,000, or $40,000) within the appropriate timeframe (the first three months, or the first 12 months). If an additional cardholder makes the transaction that reaches the eligible purchase threshold for the 25,000 bonus points, or the annual points bonus, the bonus points will be credited to the Scene+ account linked to the primary borrower’s account. It is possible to transfer points between the Scene+ accounts of a primary borrower, a co-borrower or an additional cardholder by contacting Scene+. An account is in good standing if it is not past due, there is no over-limit, and the cardholder(s) have complied with the terms of the Revolving Credit Agreement that applies to the account. All other program conditions continue to apply during the offer period.
Offer eligibility and exclusions: You cannot take advantage of the offer if you are currently a primary or secondary cardholder of a Scotiabank personal credit card or have been one in the past two years, including if you transfer your balance from an existing Scotiabank personal credit card account, and if you are a Scotiabank employee. Subject to the exclusions mentioned above, small business credit cardholders are eligible for this offer.
Rates and fees: The annual fees are $150 for the primary card, $0 for the first additional card and $50 for each additional card thereafter (including those issued to joint account holders and additional cardholders). The preferred annual interest rates applicable to the account are as follows: 20.99% on purchases and 22.99% on cash advances (including balance transfers and quasi-cash transactions). The rates, fees, and features and benefits, which are described in the disclosure statement accompanying the application, may be changed.
Annual fee
Primary card$150
Additional card$50
Annual income required
Individual$60,000
Household$100,000
Conversion fees
0%
Earning rate
2xGroceries
2xRestaurants
2xTransit
2xEntertainment
1xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$650
2nd Year Value$397
Card benefits
Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$240
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $1,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $1,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $1,000,000 / 3 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $2,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $1,000
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days
St Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Apart from its beaches, the place is known for its famous villas inhabited by celebrities and its beautiful walk along the rocks on the customs path that leads to the Cape lighthouse.
The visit of the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is famous and also worth the detour with its magnificent gardens.
Èze village
Èze-Village is a perched at a height of more than 400 m, accessible by the middle ledge. Its advantage: it offers a breathtaking view of the coast. Stroll through its old streets; the hardest part will be finding a parking space.
The Nietzsche Trail connects Èze-Sur-Mer to Èze-Village in 45 minutes by foot. An undeniable charm to discover during an afternoon.
Activities on the French Riviera
Sailing clubs are located all along the Mediterranean coast. At the Pointe Rouge in Marseille, I suggest you trust the company Bleuevasion for an organized sea trip or to rent a boat.
If you want to rent a boat with your family, or rent a water scooter/sea-doo, you will need a licence in hand.
Sportsmen will be happy: try climbing, windsurfing, kite-surfing, diving, paddling, jet-skiing, or canyoning. Not to mention the hiking trails.
Many of them go through the Massif des Maures, the Gorges du Verdon, the calanques (Port Miou, Sugiton, Sormiou or Marseilleveyre), the ascent of the Sainte Baume, the tour of Saint Jean-Cap-Ferrat or the one of the Cap d’Antibes, and many more. One more for the road? Le Corbusier’s walk in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin!
Culinary specialties of the French Riviera
Bouillabaisse, of course, a fresh fish soup that has become an institution in Marseille and the region, accompanied by bread croutons and rouille: a delight. There are a multitude of recipes. My ideal bouillabaisse does not has any tomatoes or potatoes.
Daube provençale, a beef stew simmered in red wine
Fresh sardines grilled in olive oil
Green gnocchi
Stuffed peppers and other stuffed products
Ratatouille made with fresh vegetables cut into small pieces and simmered for a long time
Marseille « navettes » with orange blossom, a perfume that will carry you away
Oreillettes (Marseille), still called ganses in Nice, sprinkled with icing sugar
Vegetable fritters such as zucchini flower fritters…delicious
Pissaladière, a pizza dough with anchovies and onions
Socca niçoise, a pastry made with chickpea flour
Oh la la, there is also the salade niçoise, the fougasse, the soupe au pistou, the raviolis, the panisses, the tapenade, the escargots, the tropézienne, the oreillettes, the pompe à huile and so on… !
It is customary to present the 13 Provençal desserts on the big dinner table during the New Year’s Eve meal.
A little culture
Nothing better than watching or reading classics such as the works of Marcel Pagnol. Qriter, novelist and video maker from the city of Aubagne, Pagnol is a great lover of Provence to whom we owe Marius, Fanny and Caesar or Manon des sources, The glory of my father, The castle of my mother … classics that all French know!
Aubagne is the city of Marcel Pagnol but also the city of the santons of Provence! Every winter the Santon Fair is held in the main square.
Getting there
With points
During the tourist season, there are many direct flights between Montreal and Marseille / Nice.
From Montreal, for example, it starts from 35,000 Aeroplan points one way.
Here’s an excellent credit card for your trip to the Côte d’Azur: the Scotiabank Passport™ Visa Infinite +* Card. With this card, you won’t pay any conversion fees for your foreign currency transactions!
$350ⓘMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$350Total$350Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Milesopedia first-year estimateⓘFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$350Total$350Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
With this welcome offer for the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card +* CardMC, you’ll earn 25,000 welcome bonus Scene+ points after charging $2,000 in purchases to your account within the first three months.
Plus, every year, earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points when you charge at least $40,000 in purchases to your account. In total, the offer represents up to 35,000 Scene+ points and a value of up to $1,250 in the first year, including rewards, savings on foreign transaction fees and airport lounge access.
With the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card, you earn 3 points per $1 spent at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland and participating Co-ops, and 2 points per $1 spent at other grocery stores, restaurants, eligible entertainment and eligible daily transit. You earn 1 point per $1 on all your other everyday purchases.
These points can be redeemed against any travel purchase at a rate of 1,000 points = $10 (flights, hotels, all-inclusives and even Airbnb), or as cash back with Scene+ at the same rate.
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card also offers:
No fees for foreign currency transactions
6 complimentary airport VIP lounge passes
Excellent insurance for your travels and purchases
Visa Infinite* Concierge Services
We have named this credit card the Best Credit Card with No Foreign Transaction Fees in 2024, 2025, and 2026.
Legal
* The potential value of savings and rewards during the first 12 months includes the value of the welcome offer, the potential value of points earned in the first year, the value of savings on foreign currency transaction fees and the cost of airport lounge access as of May 22, 2026:
$250 in travel rewards (25,000 bonus Scene+ points) for new Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite +* Cardholders who charge $2,000 in purchases to their account within the first three (3) months;
$100 in travel rewards (10,000 bonus Scene+ points) for cardholders who charge $40,000 in purchases to their account;
$50 in savings from the annual fee waiver on the first additional card for new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit card account holders;
$132 in savings on foreign currency transaction fees based on the average amount of foreign currency purchases made per active account over the past 24 months (by saving on the 2.5% foreign currency transaction fees typically charged by other credit card issuers);
$364 representing the potential value of points earned in the first year (36,400 Scene+ points) based on the average amount of purchases made per active account over the past 24 months, assuming an average spend of 21% of purchases in categories eligible for accelerated earn rates of 2X and 3X points;
$358 representing the value of complimentary membership in the Visa Airport Companion program which includes 6 airport lounge passes (based on « Preferred » membership valued at approximately $357 CAD/$259 USD). Based on the exchange rate in effect on May 22, 2026.
Maximum potential value after the first year = $1,254 (rounded to $1,250)
The actual value of offers, savings realized and points earned will vary depending on card usage and eligibility for applicable offers. Conditions apply.
1 Offer description and conditions: The 25,000 Scene+ points offer (the « offer ») applies only to new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit card accounts (the « accounts ») opened between August 4, 2026 and November 1, 2026 (regardless of the date you apply for the account) subject to the conditions below. The offer may be modified, cancelled or extended at any time without notice, and it cannot be combined with any other offer.
In addition, as a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Cardholder, you are eligible for an annual bonus of 10,000 Scene+ points if you charge at least $40,000 in eligible everyday purchases to your Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card account over the course of one year. Conditions apply; see below for more details.
Description and conditions of the 25,000 bonus Scene+ points offer: To be eligible for the 25,000 bonus Scene+ points offer (« 25,000 bonus points »), you must charge at least $2,000 in total eligible purchases to your account within the first three months following the account opening date.
Conditions for the annual 10,000 Scene+ points bonus: As a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit cardholder, you can earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points (the « annual points bonus ») if you charge at least $40,000 in eligible purchases to your account over the course of one year (12-month period). The annual period begins on the account opening date; a new period starts again every twelve months thereafter. If you replace another Scene+-eligible credit card with the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card (i.e., it is not a new card or an additional card), the opening date of your original account will be carried over to your new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card account and your annual period under this offer will begin on the next anniversary date of your original account opening. For example, if you originally opened a Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card account on January 15, 2022 and you switch to the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card on July 15, 2025, your annual period under the 10,000 Scene+ points annual bonus offer will begin on January 15, 2026 (your next anniversary date) and a new period will start again on January 15 each year thereafter. You will earn 2,000 bonus Scene+ points for each additional $10,000 in purchases made during the same year once you have reached the $40,000 annual purchase threshold.
Eligible purchases means purchases, less refunds, returns and any other similar credits, and excludes payments, cash advances (including balance transfers and quasi-cash transactions), interest charges, as well as card fees and other fees.
Fulfillment of the annual points bonus: Bonus points will be credited within approximately eight weeks after you become eligible for a bonus, provided the account is open and in good standing. In the case of a joint account with a primary borrower and a co-borrower, bonus points will be credited as follows: (i) the 25,000 bonus points and the annual points bonus will be credited to the Scene+ account linked to the account of the borrower who made the transaction that reached the eligible purchase threshold ($2,000, or $40,000) within the appropriate timeframe (the first three months, or the first 12 months). If an additional cardholder makes the transaction that reaches the eligible purchase threshold for the 25,000 bonus points, or the annual points bonus, the bonus points will be credited to the Scene+ account linked to the primary borrower’s account. It is possible to transfer points between the Scene+ accounts of a primary borrower, a co-borrower or an additional cardholder by contacting Scene+. An account is in good standing if it is not past due, there is no over-limit, and the cardholder(s) have complied with the terms of the Revolving Credit Agreement that applies to the account. All other program conditions continue to apply during the offer period.
Offer eligibility and exclusions: You cannot take advantage of the offer if you are currently a primary or secondary cardholder of a Scotiabank personal credit card or have been one in the past two years, including if you transfer your balance from an existing Scotiabank personal credit card account, and if you are a Scotiabank employee. Subject to the exclusions mentioned above, small business credit cardholders are eligible for this offer.
Rates and fees: The annual fees are $150 for the primary card, $0 for the first additional card and $50 for each additional card thereafter (including those issued to joint account holders and additional cardholders). The preferred annual interest rates applicable to the account are as follows: 20.99% on purchases and 22.99% on cash advances (including balance transfers and quasi-cash transactions). The rates, fees, and features and benefits, which are described in the disclosure statement accompanying the application, may be changed.
Annual fee
Primary card$150
Additional card$50
Annual income required
Individual$60,000
Household$100,000
Conversion fees
0%
Earning rate
2xGroceries
2xRestaurants
2xTransit
2xEntertainment
1xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$650
2nd Year Value$397
Card benefits
Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$240
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $1,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $1,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $1,000,000 / 3 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $2,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $1,000
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days
Do not hesitate to book a flight to Marseille to leave from Nice. This is what we do on a regular basis.
A direct flight from Montreal to Nice or Marseille is possible. And you can enjoy an airport lounge in both Nice and Marseille. Provided, of course, that you have the right credit card.
Accommodation
It all depends on what you are looking for and your budget! To visit the French Riviera, every option is possible, from camping to caravanning, from classic rentals to Airbnb, from bed and breakfast to luxury hotels. Check out the provenceweb site, which gives a detailed list of accommodations in the region, or our map of Marriott hotels.
Of course you can find a Marriott Bonvoy or a Best Western hotel. For a romantic stay, why not opt for a charming starred hotel, if you have the budget!
Generally we are hosted by our respective families, however here is a list of reviews for all the accommodations tried in the area:
For example, we enjoyed a free night at this charming Best Western in the heart of Nice thanks to the Best Western Rewards® Mastercard.
Finally, those who wish to live a true experience and have a bigger budget will not be disappointed with the list of luxury hotels and palaces from Marseille to Monaco.
If you don’t want to stay there because of the price, a small detour for a coffee can be nice for an afternoon (of course with an appropriate outfit). Our usual guilty pleasure? A drink at the Bar de l’Hôtel de Paris on the Place du Casino in Monaco! James Bond atmosphere guaranteed.
$990ⓘMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$990Total$990Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Milesopedia first-year estimateⓘFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$990Total$990Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Apply with confidence — no impact on your credit scoreⓘApply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).
The Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card is the best credit card in Canada for free hotel nights.
New Cardmembers can earn up to 110,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points with the current offer:
Earn 80,000 points after you spend $6,000 on your Card in your first 6 months of Cardmembership.
Plus, earn 30,000 points by making a purchase during your 15th month of Cardmembership.
This offer ends on September 22, 2026. The annual fee is $120, and there is no annual fee on Additional Cards, so you can add a partner or a family member at no extra cost.
Every year after your first Card anniversary, you receive an Annual Free Night Award good for a redemption of up to 35,000 points at eligible hotels and resorts worldwide. At a valuation of 0.9 cents per Marriott Bonvoy point, that certificate is worth roughly $315, which on its own more than covers the $120 annual fee. That is the main reason to keep this Card year after year instead of cancelling it.
To get the most out of the certificate, aim it at a night that would otherwise price close to the 35,000 point ceiling.
The Card also gives you 15 Elite Night Credits each calendar year and automatic Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status. Those credits count toward the next Elite tier, so you begin every year 15 nights ahead of where you would otherwise start.
You move up to Gold Elite status automatically when you reach $30,000 in purchases on the Card in a year, or when you combine 10 qualifying paid nights within one calendar year with the 15 Elite Night Credits from your Card.
Marriott Bonvoy points are generally valued at 0.9 cents each. On that basis, the 110,000 point welcome offer is worth about $990, and an Annual Free Night Award used at its full 35,000 point ceiling is worth about $315.
Marriott Bonvoy points pull their weight on free nights rather than on gift cards or merchandise, which is why this Card should be judged on the hotel stays it produces.
You earn 5 points per dollar on eligible purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels and 2 points per dollar on all other purchases. Points can be redeemed for free nights with no blackout dates at more than 7,000 hotels around the world.
The Card carries a solid package of coverages: $500,000 travel accident insurance, flight delay, baggage delay, lost or stolen baggage and hotel or motel burglary at $500 each, car rental theft and damage up to $85,000 for rentals of up to 48 days, Purchase Protection for 90 days and a one year Extended Warranty.
Two things to plan around: the 2.5% foreign transaction fee on purchases made in a foreign currency, and the 21.99% purchase interest rate, which makes this a Card to pay in full every month. Like all American Express Canada Cards, no minimum income is published for this Card, and you can see whether you would be approved before you apply, with no impact on your credit score.
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American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, we may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Annual fee
Primary card$120
Additional card$0
Annual income required
Individual$0
Household$0
Conversion fees
2.5%
Earning rate
5xMarriott Bonvoy hotels
2xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$1,437
2nd Year Value$312
Travel insurance
Delayed BaggageUp to $500
Lost BaggageUp to $500
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $500
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $85,000 / 48 days
Getting around
If you are renting a car, you will have to make sure that you can return it to Nice in the rental options. Count in your expenses the tolls on motorways or tunnel in center town as in Marseilles, during holidays in France. These costs are not negligible on a holiday budget.
If you are on foot, no problem: the region is very well served by trains. You will be able to navigate from center to center. It takes 2 hours and 30 minutes to travel from Marseille to Nice by TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) or TER (Transport Express Régional). A ticket can cost between 25 and 50 euros depending on your destination and the fare class you choose.
The SNCF trains are comfortable and allow you to enjoy the seaside landscape. Note that it is not uncommon for an incident on the tracks to delay arrivals, so be patient.
For the sportsmen who want to visit the French Riviera, the bicycle is an interesting option allowing you to stop from village to village.
Informations pratiques pour visiter la Côte d'Azur
When to go
The climate is temperate. As mentioned above, the French Riviera is very sunny and the temperatures remain mild for a long time. The South is definitely synonymius with a pleasant way of living.
The minimum temperatures can be -5 degrees Celsius. It is even common to have some warm days in winter, with +20 degrees! The seashores are then invaded by all.
What to take with you
Beach towels, caps, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential, but think about icaridine-based mosquito repellent, suitable for the whole family, depending on the area you are going to.
If you plan to stay on the beach, Decathlon stores offer good solutions to protect the little ones from the sun such as beach tents.
Beach shoes for young and old if you plan to go to the beaches of Nice to swim in the sea!
Finally, brimg your Ulysses guide in your suitcases!
What are the flights to France?
In order to know all available flights, we recommend you to use the flightconnections tool.
What is the time difference between Montreal and Nice?
Nice is based on the Paris time zone, which is 6 hours more than Montreal which is based on the Toronto time zone.
During the time change periods (March and November), there is only a 5 hour time difference.
Bottom line
As you will have understood, the French Riviera is best explored while following the coast line. Since this is my native region, I have way too many favourite spots. A single article would not be enough to reveal all its secrets!
To follow our adventures on our Instagram account @milesopedia, it’s this way!
$350ⓘMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$350Total$350Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Milesopedia first-year estimateⓘFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$350Total$350Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
With this welcome offer for the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card +* CardMC, you’ll earn 25,000 welcome bonus Scene+ points after charging $2,000 in purchases to your account within the first three months.
Plus, every year, earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points when you charge at least $40,000 in purchases to your account. In total, the offer represents up to 35,000 Scene+ points and a value of up to $1,250 in the first year, including rewards, savings on foreign transaction fees and airport lounge access.
With the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card, you earn 3 points per $1 spent at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland and participating Co-ops, and 2 points per $1 spent at other grocery stores, restaurants, eligible entertainment and eligible daily transit. You earn 1 point per $1 on all your other everyday purchases.
These points can be redeemed against any travel purchase at a rate of 1,000 points = $10 (flights, hotels, all-inclusives and even Airbnb), or as cash back with Scene+ at the same rate.
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card also offers:
No fees for foreign currency transactions
6 complimentary airport VIP lounge passes
Excellent insurance for your travels and purchases
Visa Infinite* Concierge Services
We have named this credit card the Best Credit Card with No Foreign Transaction Fees in 2024, 2025, and 2026.
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* The potential value of savings and rewards during the first 12 months includes the value of the welcome offer, the potential value of points earned in the first year, the value of savings on foreign currency transaction fees and the cost of airport lounge access as of May 22, 2026:
$250 in travel rewards (25,000 bonus Scene+ points) for new Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite +* Cardholders who charge $2,000 in purchases to their account within the first three (3) months;
$100 in travel rewards (10,000 bonus Scene+ points) for cardholders who charge $40,000 in purchases to their account;
$50 in savings from the annual fee waiver on the first additional card for new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit card account holders;
$132 in savings on foreign currency transaction fees based on the average amount of foreign currency purchases made per active account over the past 24 months (by saving on the 2.5% foreign currency transaction fees typically charged by other credit card issuers);
$364 representing the potential value of points earned in the first year (36,400 Scene+ points) based on the average amount of purchases made per active account over the past 24 months, assuming an average spend of 21% of purchases in categories eligible for accelerated earn rates of 2X and 3X points;
$358 representing the value of complimentary membership in the Visa Airport Companion program which includes 6 airport lounge passes (based on « Preferred » membership valued at approximately $357 CAD/$259 USD). Based on the exchange rate in effect on May 22, 2026.
Maximum potential value after the first year = $1,254 (rounded to $1,250)
The actual value of offers, savings realized and points earned will vary depending on card usage and eligibility for applicable offers. Conditions apply.
1 Offer description and conditions: The 25,000 Scene+ points offer (the « offer ») applies only to new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit card accounts (the « accounts ») opened between August 4, 2026 and November 1, 2026 (regardless of the date you apply for the account) subject to the conditions below. The offer may be modified, cancelled or extended at any time without notice, and it cannot be combined with any other offer.
In addition, as a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Cardholder, you are eligible for an annual bonus of 10,000 Scene+ points if you charge at least $40,000 in eligible everyday purchases to your Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card account over the course of one year. Conditions apply; see below for more details.
Description and conditions of the 25,000 bonus Scene+ points offer: To be eligible for the 25,000 bonus Scene+ points offer (« 25,000 bonus points »), you must charge at least $2,000 in total eligible purchases to your account within the first three months following the account opening date.
Conditions for the annual 10,000 Scene+ points bonus: As a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit cardholder, you can earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points (the « annual points bonus ») if you charge at least $40,000 in eligible purchases to your account over the course of one year (12-month period). The annual period begins on the account opening date; a new period starts again every twelve months thereafter. If you replace another Scene+-eligible credit card with the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card (i.e., it is not a new card or an additional card), the opening date of your original account will be carried over to your new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card account and your annual period under this offer will begin on the next anniversary date of your original account opening. For example, if you originally opened a Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card account on January 15, 2022 and you switch to the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card on July 15, 2025, your annual period under the 10,000 Scene+ points annual bonus offer will begin on January 15, 2026 (your next anniversary date) and a new period will start again on January 15 each year thereafter. You will earn 2,000 bonus Scene+ points for each additional $10,000 in purchases made during the same year once you have reached the $40,000 annual purchase threshold.
Eligible purchases means purchases, less refunds, returns and any other similar credits, and excludes payments, cash advances (including balance transfers and quasi-cash transactions), interest charges, as well as card fees and other fees.
Fulfillment of the annual points bonus: Bonus points will be credited within approximately eight weeks after you become eligible for a bonus, provided the account is open and in good standing. In the case of a joint account with a primary borrower and a co-borrower, bonus points will be credited as follows: (i) the 25,000 bonus points and the annual points bonus will be credited to the Scene+ account linked to the account of the borrower who made the transaction that reached the eligible purchase threshold ($2,000, or $40,000) within the appropriate timeframe (the first three months, or the first 12 months). If an additional cardholder makes the transaction that reaches the eligible purchase threshold for the 25,000 bonus points, or the annual points bonus, the bonus points will be credited to the Scene+ account linked to the primary borrower’s account. It is possible to transfer points between the Scene+ accounts of a primary borrower, a co-borrower or an additional cardholder by contacting Scene+. An account is in good standing if it is not past due, there is no over-limit, and the cardholder(s) have complied with the terms of the Revolving Credit Agreement that applies to the account. All other program conditions continue to apply during the offer period.
Offer eligibility and exclusions: You cannot take advantage of the offer if you are currently a primary or secondary cardholder of a Scotiabank personal credit card or have been one in the past two years, including if you transfer your balance from an existing Scotiabank personal credit card account, and if you are a Scotiabank employee. Subject to the exclusions mentioned above, small business credit cardholders are eligible for this offer.
Rates and fees: The annual fees are $150 for the primary card, $0 for the first additional card and $50 for each additional card thereafter (including those issued to joint account holders and additional cardholders). The preferred annual interest rates applicable to the account are as follows: 20.99% on purchases and 22.99% on cash advances (including balance transfers and quasi-cash transactions). The rates, fees, and features and benefits, which are described in the disclosure statement accompanying the application, may be changed.
Annual fee
Primary card$150
Additional card$50
Annual income required
Individual$60,000
Household$100,000
Conversion fees
0%
Earning rate
2xGroceries
2xRestaurants
2xTransit
2xEntertainment
1xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$650
2nd Year Value$397
Card benefits
Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$240
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $1,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $1,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $1,000,000 / 3 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $2,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $1,000
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days
Our editorial integrity
Our reviews and rankings are based on an objective assessment. Advertisers do not influence our content. We may receive compensation through some links; our analysis and opinions remain independent.
