If you are currently strolling through the streets of Nice, Monaco or Villefranche-sur-Mer, you may feel as though you have stepped back in time. Vintage cars, 1960s-inspired outfits and film crews: the French Riviera is hosting the filming of the highly anticipated Ocean’s Eleven prequel. Starring Margot Robbie and Bradley Cooper, this new Hollywood production showcases the landscapes and charm of the Riviera.

The film takes us back to 1962, during the legendary Monaco Grand Prix. The story is expected to follow Danny Ocean’s parents, from the famous film franchise, as they plan an extraordinary heist during the motor race. For anyone who loves the region, the production also offers an opportunity to rediscover some of the French Riviera’s most iconic locations from a different perspective.

Since late summer, several locations across the French Riviera have welcomed the film crew. In Nice, the area around Notre-Dame Basilica and several streets in the city centre have notably been taken over by the production. Trucks, filming equipment and period sets have transformed parts of the city, giving residents the impression that they have travelled back to the 1960s.

In Monaco, filming takes advantage of iconic locations such as Port Hercule, Casino Square and Avenue Princesse Grace. It is difficult to imagine a more fitting setting for an Ocean’s Eleven story. With its luxury hotels, vintage cars and the elegance of Monte Carlo, the Principality already has all the ingredients for a glamorous heist movie.

Villefranche-sur-Mer is also among the filming locations for this prequel. With its colourful harbour, warm-toned façades and narrow streets winding down towards the Mediterranean, this small town between Nice and Monaco provides a particularly cinematic backdrop. Its authentic charm contrasts with the luxury of the Principality and highlights the remarkable diversity of the French Riviera’s landscapes.

For visitors, this is a wonderful opportunity to rediscover these destinations in a new light. A stroll around Villefranche-sur-Mer harbour, a walk through Old Nice or a trip to Monte Carlo takes on a different dimension when you know these landscapes have served as the backdrop for a Hollywood production.

The new film brings together a prestigious cast, with Margot Robbie and Bradley Cooper at the heart of this new adventure. Bradley Cooper is also directing the movie. Set several decades before the events of the famous Ocean’s Eleven trilogy, the story takes us into the world of Danny Ocean’s parents.

Their goal? To take advantage of the 1962 Monaco Grand Prix to pull off an ambitious heist. At the time, Monaco already represented luxury, glamour and a must-attend gathering for international celebrities. The motor race attracted drivers, famous personalities and wealthy visitors from around the world.

To recreate this atmosphere, the film crew is paying particular attention to detail, with period costumes, vintage cars and carefully reconstructed sets. The aim is to bring the French Riviera of the 1960s back to life: elegant, vibrant and full of mystery.

This choice of period perfectly reflects the region’s identity. Between yachts, prestigious hotels, coastal roads and seaside villages, the French Riviera provides an ideal setting for a story combining adventure, elegance and suspense.

Beyond its star-studded cast and Hollywood prestige, this production is a reminder that the French Riviera has long been a favourite destination for filmmakers. Nice, Monaco and Villefranche-sur-Mer offer a remarkable variety of landscapes within a relatively small area.

For travellers, it is easy to enjoy this diversity in a single day. You can start by wandering through the narrow streets of Old Nice, continue with a seaside stroll in Villefranche-sur-Mer, then head to Monaco to explore Monte Carlo and its famous casino. Each stop has its own atmosphere, blending Mediterranean authenticity, heritage and luxury.

Villefranche-sur-Mer is particularly worth taking the time to explore. Its harbour, little squares and colourful façades invite you to slow down, enjoy a drink on a terrace or stroll along the waterfront. It is also an excellent place to experience a more intimate side of the French Riviera, away from Monaco’s sometimes highly sophisticated image.

The Ocean’s Eleven prequel is therefore shining a spotlight on the region and its iconic landscapes. With the film expected to be released in 2027, curious visitors can already set out to discover the locations that will soon appear on the big screen.

So, if you are visiting the French Riviera this autumn, keep your eyes open as you explore. Between the streets of Nice, the scenic views of Villefranche-sur-Mer and the elegance of Monaco, you might just find yourself walking in the footsteps of Hollywood’s next big production.