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The South of France Is My Favorite Vacation Destination — Here Are Its 20 Best Places to Visit

The lavender fields, quaint villages, and beautiful beaches have my heart.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

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France ranks among the most popular tourist destinations in all of Europe — of course there are remarkable destinations in the country that gave us boeuf bourguignon , the Eiffel Tower , and Champagne. But with alluring beaches along the Côte d'Azur , magical lavender fields, and the vineyards of the Luberon, the South of France is a superb destination all on its own. I'm a professional travel writer who's been to 45 countries across six continents, and it's my absolute favorite place in the world to visit. If you’re planning on spending even just a few days in le Midi , this list will help you choose which of the region's many, many highlights to include in your itinerary.

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Gordes is one of the most beautiful small towns in the world , with roads and facades that seem to have sprung from the pages of a children's storybook. Unsurprisingly, tourists beeline to this enchanting Luberon village to see — and snap photos of — its cobbled lanes, white stone buildings, and churches.

Saint-Tropez

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A French Riviera hotspot put on the map by Bridget Bardot and other members of the jet-set pack in the 1960s, Saint-Tropez still sizzles. Sun-kissed holiday goers crowd glamorous beach clubs here, moor their mega yachts in the harbor, shop for breezy linens at the boutiques, and traipse around the old fishing quarter.

Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque

Just outside the tourist-trodden center of Gordes lies Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, a photogenic monastery founded in 1148 by Cistercians monks. Guided tours of the church and cloisters are available throughout the year. When the lavender fields bloom in the summer, this site reaches peak prettiness.

Île Sainte-Marguerite

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Île Sainte-Marguerite floats about half a mile offshore from Cannes. In contrast to its mainland neighbor, the largest of the Lérins Islands is small, slow-paced, and steeped in nature. Expect rocky beaches, turquoise waters, and a eucalyptus forest, as well as a very interesting underwater sculpture museum.

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It’s not hard to find enchanting hilltop towns in Provence. The enduring charm of Mougin that lured Edith Piaf and Christian Dior enamors all who visit. This medieval village has a snail-shaped center with cobbled lanes and flower-clad houses, plus large-scale art sculptures and award-winning restaurants overlooking the leafy countryside.

Oppède le Vieux

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In stark contrast to the Disneyland-like atmosphere of Gordes, Oppède le Vieux is an under-the-radar village that’s built atop rocks and surrounded by overgrown trees. The stone pathways, steps, and structures here are in various degrees of ruin, which imbues a time-worn charm.

Porquerolles

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Escape to Porquerolles, off the coast of Hyères, for a peaceful respite that can include time lazing on near-empty beaches, swimming in placid tides, sipping your way through vineyards, cycling in the countryside, and wandering through old forts.

Plage des Marinières

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Widely considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the French Riviera, crescent-shaped Plage des Marinières in the darling village of Villefranche-sur-Mer is the perfect spot for a day of basking in the sun, strolling across golden sand, and splashing in the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

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The exclusive commune of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat has long attracted the attention of artists and jet setters with deep pockets and a desire for privacy. Exquisite villas are obscured from sight by lush vegetation. Pristine beaches, scenic hiking trails, and a yacht-filled harbor define this desirable destination.

Site Archéologique de Glanum

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Named after the Celtic god Glanis, Site Archéologique de Glanum traces its roots back to 600 BC. It’s at this extensive site just outside the town of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence that visitors can walk through remarkable surviving remains of both Gaulish and Roman settlements.

Le Sentier des Ocres

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The most iconic and unmissable sight in the Luberon village of Roussilian, Le Sentier des Ocres is a former ochre quarry with walking paths through rust-hued hills. The setting certainly provides spellbinding photo ops.

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Nice is a vibrant seaside city with a lovely historic core. If Vieux Nice is on your itinerary, begin with the Promenade des Anglais, then wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, admiring the pastel-hued facades and shopping for Niçoise soaps. Experience a Provencale market, grab socca (chickpea pancake) at one of the outdoor cafes, and soak in the views from Colline du Château before you depart.

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The untamed region between the Mediterranean Sea and the two branches of the Rhône River delta, Camargue defies preconceptions with its vastly different landscape. Rather than olive groves and grape vines, expect salt marshes and reed beds inhabited by free-roaming white horses and pink flamingos.

Valensole Plateau Lavender Fields

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Lavender is the emblem of Provence. The fields on the Valensole Plateau that erupt into a fragrant and gorgeous purple bloom each summer are some of the most popular — and photogenic — attractions in the region.

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Fragrance fans are no doubt familiar with Grasse, a French Riviera town in the hills behind Cannes that’s considered the perfume capital of the word. Rare roses and jasmine for designer luxury scent makers grow in this sunny village. It’s also home to many perfumeries.

Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole

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If you’re at all interested in the life and work of Vincent Van Gogh, consider a visit to Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole. This is the monastery-turned-psychiatric facility in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence where the tortured Dutch artist sought treatment and famously painted “The Starry Night.”

Palais des Papes

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The standout attraction in Avignon, the enormous Palais des Papes served as a pontifical residence in the 14th century. It's also on the shortlist of the most significant medieval Gothic buildings in all of Europe, with ceremonial halls, chapels, a cloister, and frescos.

Mines Bruoux

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Mines Bruoux , near Gargas, gives visitors the chance to tour a maze-like complex of tunnels and galleries in a 19th-century ochre mine. You will learn about the fascinating mining process as you go. The cool underground temperature provides a reprieve from the summer sun, too.

Promenade de la Croisette

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Few places embody French Riviera glamor quite like Promenade de la Croisette. Running along the Mediterranean Sea, the famous palm-fringed thoroughfare is crowned by Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, which hosts the Cannes Film Festival, and you'll find many upmarket hotels, shops, and restaurants here as well.

Carrières de Lumières

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For an unforgettable experience that speaks to Provence’s artistic pedigree, head to Carrières de Lumières in Les Baux-de-Provence. Housed in an old quarry, this contemporary art center hosts multimedia shows that combine larger-than-life projections of famous paintings and music.

Related Articles

20 Best Places to Visit in the South of France

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Aug 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Just mentioning the "South of France" conjures up images of stylish seaside holidays, complete with private beach clubs, upscale boutique shopping, and fancy gourmet dining. This description fits the French Riviera (especially Cannes, Monaco, and Saint-Tropez), but it's just one aspect of the South of France.

After the French Riviera, the second most-visited area in the South of France is sunny rural Provence . A patchwork of small farms, fields of lavender and sunflowers, and colorful open-air markets characterize the Provençal countryside. There are also fascinating medieval hilltop towns, Roman ruins, and historic cities such as Aix-en-Provence, Arles, and Avignon.

Would you like to discover the South of France's less touristy side ? Then head to Marseille for a glimpse of a real working city with a cosmopolitan vibe. Toulon is another authentic seaport with tourist appeal.

In Southwest France, the Basque seaside resort of Biarritz boasts an elegant Second Empire hotel, beautiful sandy beaches, and spectacular coastal scenery. Biarritz also has a superb aquarium and many fine-dining restaurants, as well as trendy bistros.

Slightly off the beaten path, the Languedoc-Roussillon region includes outstanding attractions like the UNESCO-listed fortified city of Carcassonne and the lively university town of Montpellier.

The most undiscovered area in the South of France is the rural Gascony region . This unspoiled countryside is known for its quiet villages and hearty cuisine. Toulouse is the biggest city in Gascony yet has the feel of a small town, thanks to its relaxed and convivial ambiance.

Plan your French sightseeing itinerary with our list of the best places to visit in the South of France.

1. French Riviera Seaside Resorts

2. nice: art museums and beaches, 3. aix-en-provence, 4. historic monuments in avignon & arles, 5. saint-tropez: a charming village with beautiful beaches, 6. the upscale seaside resort of biarritz, 7. the walled medieval town of carcassonne, 8. hilltop villages of provence (villages perchés), 9. the glamorous seaside city-state of monaco, 10. montpellier, 11. lourdes & pyrénées nature sites, 12. marseilles, the calanques & cassis, 13. ancient roman monuments & archaeological sites, 14. unesco-listed albi, 15. toulon & île de porquerolles, 16. the gascony region, 17. bordeaux, 19. the camargue, 20. plage de l'espiguette, map of places to visit in the south of france.

The sunny weather, mesmerizing deep-blue sea, and leafy palm trees give the French Riviera a dreamy quality. Also known as the "Côte d'Azur," the French Riviera delivers fabulous beach holidays with a hefty dose of culture.

During the early 20th century, artists flocked to the Côte d'Azur to capture the sublime scenery on canvas. As a result, many local museums display the works of Renoir, Matisse, Chagall, Picasso, and other painters who were captivated by the coastal landscapes.

Nice is prized for its gorgeous waterfront promenade and art museums, while Cannes is known for private beach clubs and the annual film festival.

Other top resort destinations include Monaco and Saint-Tropez . The French Riviera also has smaller lesser-known towns that are full of charm, such as Fréjus, Antibes, Villefrance-sur-Mer, Beaulieu-sur-Mer, Èze, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, and Menton.

Of all the French Riviera resorts, the coastline near Antibes has the best beaches, especially along the Golfe Juan on the Juan-les-Pins and Cap d'Antibes headland. In this area, there are about a dozen public beaches. The Plage de la Garoupe is the prettiest beach, with a fine white-sand shoreline, but much of it is occupied by private beach clubs during the summertime.

One of the highlights of the Côte d'Azur, the town of Nice deserves special mention because of its charming historic city center and amazing art collections: the Matisse Museum, Chagall Museum, Fine Arts Museum, and Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.

With its scenic beachside location, balmy weather, and pleasant Mediterranean landscape, Nice has it all. The centerpiece of Nice is the Promenade des Anglais , a palm-fringed seafront promenade, while the Vieille Ville (Old Town) is a delightful warren of medieval alleyways and winding cobblestone streets.

Surrounding Nice, the sunny Provençal countryside brims with day-trip possibilities, such as Grasse and Fréjus. Within a 30-minute drive are the atmospheric hilltop towns of Saint-Paul-de-Vence and Èze , as well as the fetching seaside villages of Cagnes-sur-Mer and Villefranche-sur-Mer .

Other highlights include the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild on the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula and the sea-facing Villa Kérylos in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, designed to resemble an ancient Greek nobleman's mansion of the 2nd century BC. Both villas are open to the public for visits.

To experience the quintessential lifestyle of southern France, visit Aix-en-Provence. This elegant city epitomizes the Provençal region's character with its open-air markets, bustling outdoor cafés, and refreshing fountains that adorn the public squares.

As in most towns of Provence, the ambiance is slow-paced and relaxing. Aix-en-Provence residents have perfected the art de vivre, with leisurely meals and strolls along graceful tree-lined streets.

Top tourist attractions in Aix-en-Provence are Vieil Aix (the Old Town); the Cours Mirabeau , a tree-lined avenue with many sidewalk cafés and restaurants; and the Quartier Mazarin neighborhood, which was developed in the 17th century.

If you appreciate Post-Impressionist art, visit the Atelier de Cézanne , the studio where Paul Cézanne created many famous paintings. Cézanne was born in Aix-en-Provence and spent his childhood here. The Cézanne Trail gives you a chance to explore the landmarks associated with the artist on a self-guided walking tour.

Discover the cultural heritage of Provence in Avignon and Arles. The UNESCO-listed Palais des Papes in Avignon stands as an awe-inspiring testimony to the grandeur of Christendom during the 14th century.

Avignon also has an outstanding museum of fine arts (the Musée du Petit Palais ), noteworthy medieval churches, and lively festivals throughout the year.

In the heart of Provence, Arles boasts a must-see Roman Amphitheater that was built in the 1st century to accommodate 21,000 spectators, as well as several other Roman-era archaeological sites.

In Arles, it's fun to wander the town to find the landmarks painted by Vincent van Gogh such as the Café du Forum (now called the Café van Gogh) on the Place du Forum . To see more sights painted by Vincent van Gogh, try the Van Gogh Route self-guided walking tour .

Saint-Tropez was just a humble fishing village until 1956 when the film And God Created Woman (starring Brigitte Bardot) made it famous. Scenes from the movie were shot on location throughout the town, including at the Plages de Pampelonne where private beach clubs continue to draw a fashionable clientele.

Today, this alluring beach resort still has the charm of a bygone era with its picturesque old fishing harbor ( Vieux Port ) and quaint historic town center ( La Ponche ). At the Musée d'Histoire Maritime , learn about local fishermen who began traveling beyond the Mediterranean Sea in the 16th century.

Besides its old-world charm and pristine sandy beaches, Saint-Tropez offers interesting cultural attractions . An outstanding collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art is on display at the Musée de l'Annonciade , housed in a chapel that dates to 1510.

To soak up the ambiance of Saint-Tropez, spend time at the Place des Lices . This tree-shaded square features outdoor cafés where you can take in the everyday scenes of men playing pétanque (the Provençal version of bocce ball) and women shopping at the open-air produce market (on Tuesday and Saturday mornings).

If you are outdoorsy, take a hike on the Sentier du Littoral , a trail with superb views of the coastline. The trail begins in La Ponche and continues along a seaside path until Tahiti Plage (beach). Keep in mind that this trail has some rocky areas. Tip: Wear good hiking shoes.

Stunning coastal scenery and elegant architecture distinguish Biarritz from other seaside resorts in the South of France. The town was once a holiday destination for aristocrats and royalty, and for that reason is known as the "Queen of Resorts and the Resort of Kings."

Empress Eugénie (wife of Napoleon III) adored this seaside location in the Basque region because of its dramatic natural beauty. Thanks to the empress and other aristocratic visitors in the 19th century, the little fishing village became a sophisticated and genteel beach town. The regal air of the past is evident in opulent oceanfront mansions and streets named after royalty.

The magnificent palace built for Empress Eugénie now houses the five-star Hôtel du Palais overlooking the Grande Plage , one of the top tourist attractions of Biarritz . The hotel offers sumptuous accommodations and exquisite fine dining.

Even if you don't stay at the Hôtel du Palais , you can splurge on a meal at the La Table d'Aurélien Largeau . This Michelin-starred restaurant serves contemporary Basque cuisine in a lavish Second Empire salon with ocean views.

Carcassonne gives you the impression of stepping into the scene of a fairy tale. Perfectly preserved, this fortified medieval town is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The turreted towers lend a Disneyland-like quality.

By exploring the narrow alleyways and cobblestone streets of Carcassonne, you can imagine what life was like during the Middle Ages. Check out the Grand Puits de la Cité , a listed Monument Historique . Townspeople once withdrew drinking water from this 14th-century well.

As early as the 12th century, residents worshipped at the Cathédrale Saint-Nazaire et Saint-Celse , an impressive Gothic monument that is now a basilica. For a peek at a medieval fortress, head to the Château Comtal , where the Viscounts of Carcassonne resided in the 12th and 13th centuries.

Another nearby UNESCO-designated site in the Languedoc-Roussillon region is the Canal du Midi . This 360-kilometer canal was created in the 17th century to link the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea.

Hilltop villages ( villages perché s in French) encapsulate the old-world charm of Provence. Many of these ancient towns are still enclosed by ramparts, which adds to the magical feeling of being enclosed in a little medieval world.

You will enjoy wandering narrow cobblestone streets and pedestrian lanes to discover small boutiques, fountain-adorned squares, and historic churches. Provençal hilltop villages also will delight you with splendid views of the rural landscape.

If you are traveling by car, you can create a driving itinerary to discover the quaint country villages of Provence, especially in the remote Luberon region , which is designated as a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve.

For those based in Nice, several interesting hilltop villages are easy day-trip destinations . These are beautiful little towns, although this area is no longer rural and instead is part of the suburban sprawl around Nice.

It's hard to resist the allure of Saint-Paul de Vence , about a 30-minute drive from Nice. This well-preserved walled town stands high on a precipice overlooking the landscape. The town's quaint cobblestone streets, enticing boutiques, and fabulous views make up for the fact that the village is overrun with visitors even in the off-season.

Beginning in the 1920s, many famous artists were drawn to the beauty of Saint-Paul de Vence, and their work is on display at the Fondation Maeght , two kilometers outside the village.

Along the French Riviera coastline , Èze is a captivating hilltop village (only 12 kilometers from Nice) perched 400 meters above the sea. This picture-perfect village affords sweeping vistas of the Mediterranean and the Cap-Ferrat coastline. Luxurious accommodations are found at the Château de la Chèvre d'Or hotel , a Relais & Châteaux property with a two Michelin-starred restaurant.

A 45-minute drive from Nice in the foothills of the Maritime Alps is the town famous for its perfume factories. Grasse also has a wonderful Vieille Ville (Old Town), full of narrow pedestrian streets, small squares, and historic buildings. To soak up the ambiance and sunshine, stop for a leisurely al fresco lunch on the Old Town's main square (Place aux Aires).

One of the Plus Beaux Villages de France , Gourdon (40 kilometers from Nice) boasts many artisan craft boutiques and an impressive château with gardens designed by André Le Nôtre. From Nice, you can go on a full-day Provence countryside small-group day trip to visit hilltop towns Grasse, Gourdon, and Saint-Paul de Vence as well as the seaside resort of Cannes.

Medieval hilltop villages are scattered throughout the Haut-Vaucluse area of Provence. Two more of France's Plus Beaux Villages are Séguret (10 kilometers from Vaison-la-Romaine) overlooking the Dentelles de Montmirail mountain range and Venasque , which affords views of Mont Ventoux.

Presiding above rocky gorges in the Haut-Vaucluse, Monieux has a museum dedicated to truffles, the Musée de la Truffe du Ventoux, and hosts a Medieval Festival in September.

Crillon-le-Brave offers the charm of a quiet hilltop hamlet along with a five-star Relais & Châteaux resort property, the Hôtel Crillon Le Brave .

The Luberon natural regional park in the Haut Vaucluse has many medieval hilltop towns on the Plus Beaux Villages list: Gordes , dramatically perched on a steep promontory; Ménerbes , made famous by Peter Mayle's A Year in Provence novel; Lourmarin , which has a majestic château that hosts cultural events and festivals; Roussillon , built alongside an ochre cliff and surrounded by woodlands; and Lacoste , a tiny village full of art galleries and outdoor cafés.

Also in the Luberon natural park, Bonnieux stands out because of its traditional Provençal market and its fantastic museum devoted to the history of bread, the Musée de la Boulangerie. The town also has an interesting Romanesque church.

Apt is known for its large Provençal market (held on Saturday mornings) and museum of archaeology, while Cadenet has a luxurious boutique hotel, the Auberge La Fenière , with a Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Goût de Bonheur .

Perched on a promontory above the sea, Monaco boasts an impressive ancient castle and splendid coastal views. This dazzling city-state on the French Riviera is home to a royal family with a heritage that dates back to the 13th century.

Just a 30-minute train ride from Nice, Monaco draws fashionable crowds to its high-profile yacht shows, the annual Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco car race, and the Opening Gala at the Opera House.

Even if you only visit for a day or afternoon, you can see many of the highlights of Monaco including the Palais Princier (Prince's Palace), the Musée Océanographique , and the ritzy Place du Casino in the Monte-Carlo district. These top attractions are all within easy walking distance.

Despite being a modern urban city, Montpellier has retained its historic character in L'Écusson (the Old Town) with its jumble of winding medieval streets, elegant squares, beautiful churches, and stately hôtel particuliers (aristocratic mansions).

Encircling L'Écusson, spacious tree-lined boulevards were created by Baron Haussmann (who designed the Grands Boulevards of Paris) in the 19th century, replacing the city's medieval ramparts. The best of the 21st century is seen in Montpellier's sleek tram system with new cars featuring decorations by Christian Lacroix.

An air of trendiness and youthful energy reigns throughout Montpellier, thanks to the university-student population. Buzzing sidewalk cafés and chic gourmet restaurants delight locals and tourists alike.

Densely forested, rolling hills provide an inspiring backdrop for the Lourdes cathedral alongside the rushing Ousse River. Pure spring waters flow into a Grotto where Saint Bernadette received visions of the Virgin Mary. Water from this source is believed to have healing properties.

Millions of pilgrims visit Lourdes annually, making it the biggest pilgrimage destination in France and one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world. Pilgrims visit the Grotto of the Apparitions, worship at the Basilique Notre-Dame du Rosaire (Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary), and participate in candlelit Marian processions.

One of the top attractions of the French Pyrenees , Lourdes draws many pilgrims who hope for cures to an illness by bathing in the sacred waters. So far, the Catholic church has validated 70 official miracles.

Lourdes is an ideal starting point to explore the Pyrenees Mountains. The UNESCO-listed Cirque de Gavarnie awes you with its spectacular scenery of sheer granite walls and rushing waterfalls. The highest summit (the peak of Mont Perdu ) soars to over 3,300 meters; the Grande Cascade with a 422-meter drop is Europe's tallest waterfall .

An easy walking path at the Cirque de Gavarnie allows you to soak up the scenery of snow-dusted mountains, alpine chalets, and goats grazing on the grass. You'll also enjoy listening to the refreshing sounds of a meandering stream and the chirping of little birds.

To experience an authentic Mediterranean seaport, spend a day or two exploring Marseilles . A bustling harbor explains the city's raison d' ê tre , as well as its rich multicultural heritage.

The Old Town ( Le Panier ) of Marseille brims with historic buildings, artisan boutiques, and authentic restaurants, while the Vieux Port dating back to the 6th century BC is still in use today as a launching point for fishing boats.

A fish market is held every morning at the harbor, and the restaurants around the waterfront are the best places to visit to sample the gastronomic specialty of Marseilles, bouillabaisse (seafood stew). The upscale Restaurant Miramar (12 Quai du Port) is famous for its bouillabaisse.

From the Vieux Port in Marseille, you can hop on a ferry to reach two favorite tourist destinations: the 16th-century Château d'If (fortress) on the île d'If, and the Calanques , a national park featuring white limestone coves filled with seawater. You can also take cruises and private boat excursions to explore the Calanques (coves).

It is even possible to take an Electric Bike Tour to the Calanques from Marseille . This full-day tour traverses the wild terrain of the Calanques with a stop at a beach for swimming and concludes with a visit to the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, one of the top tourist attractions in Marseille .

Less than 30 kilometers from Marseilles is Cassis . The pastel-painted houses, picturesque port, and bright Mediterranean sunlight of this Provençal fishing village appealed to Post-Impressionist painters such as Paul Signac, Henri Matisse, and Raoul Dufy, who arrived in the late 19th and early 20th century to paint scenes of the harbor and coastline.

Today, Cassis is a recreational getaway for residents of Marseille as well as travelers who appreciate the charm of a small seaside town. If you would like to visit Cassis and the Calanques as a day trip from Marseille, an organized sightseeing tour is the perfect option.

Both Arles in Provence and Nice on the French Riviera have fascinating ancient Roman ruins, among their other tourist attractions. The Arènes d'Arles was once used for gladiator fights and today hosts cultural performances. In the Cimiez quarter of Nice are the ancient ruins of Cemenelum, revealing vestiges of the Roman baths and amphitheater.

Nîmes in the Languedoc region has some of the most impressive ancient Roman monuments in the south of France. The Arènes de Nîmes , a perfectly designed Roman amphitheater, and the Maison Carrée (Roman temple) are remarkable for their exceptional state of preservation.

An important town during classical antiquity, Orange boasts a UNESCO-listed Théâtre Antique (Roman theater dating to the 1st century). This incredibly well-preserved ancient theater today hosts the renowned Chorégies d'Orange music festival, as well as other cultural events.

In the Haut-Vaucluse area of Provence , Orange is a 30-minute drive away from Vaison-la-Romaine , which is considered one of the Plus Beaux Détours de France (France's official list of places worthy of a detour).

Vaison-la-Romaine has remarkable archaeological sites dating to the 1st century. The old Roman theater of Vaison-la-Romaine is used as an open-air venue for Vaison Danses , an international dance festival that takes place every year in July.

Also in the Haut-Vaucluse area, Pernes-les-Fontaines was founded during the Gallo-Roman era. This relaxing town was named for its many fountains that provide abundant drinking water, a legacy of the Roman heritage.

The historic episcopal city of Albi is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its exceptional architecture and cultural value. An imposing fortress-like cathedral presides over the medieval town.

Founded in the 13th century, the enormous Cathédrale Sainte-Cécile is the world's largest cathedral built from brick. The breathtaking vaulted interior features over 18,000 square meters of frescoes and an ornately decorated Gothic choir with 200 intricate statues. Not to be missed is the Last Judgment fresco, a masterpiece of Renaissance painting.

Housed in the UNESCO-listed 13th-century Palais de la Berbie, the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum is devoted to the work of the famous artist, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, who was born in Albi. The museum displays Lautrec's distinctive posters, as well as paintings and drawings.

Albi is a worthwhile day trip from Toulouse (a one-hour drive) or combined with an itinerary of other attractions such as Carcassonne (about a two-hour drive).

Toulon is less touristy than other seaside cities along France's Mediterranean coast yet offers plenty of attractions. This characteristic port town has an attractive palm-fringed waterfront, which is full of shops, and restaurants with outdoor terraces.

Highlights of Toulon are the atmospheric Le Mourillon quarter, an old fishing village; the historic harbor including the Porte de l'Arsenal , an 18th-century military building that houses the Musée National de la Marine (seafaring museum); and the astounding coastal views from Mont Faron (accessible by the Téléphérique du Faron cable car).

A traditional Provençal market has been held in Toulon since the 18th century. Today, this market takes place every day (except Mondays) at the Cours Lafayette from 7:30 am until 12:30 pm; vendors sell fresh vegetables, fruits, flowers, specialty food products, and Provençal fabrics.

From the Port of Toulon, you can sail away to the dreamy Île de Porquerolles just an hour's ferry ride away. The island features unspoiled natural scenery, sandy beaches, and secluded coves. It's the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. Besides sunbathing, the Île de Porquerolles offers opportunities for snorkeling, hiking, and mountain biking.

If you really want to get away from all the tourists, go to Le Gers (the Gascony region). This pastoral region in Southwest France is exceptionally charming, yet almost completely undiscovered by travelers.

Unspoiled forests and farmlands blanket the undulating countryside in a colorful patchwork while hilltops are dotted with imposing castles, walled medieval towns, and quiet country villages.

Toulouse is the largest city in the region, but it has a slow-paced, small-town feel. With its sultry climate and sidewalk cafés found at every turn, Toulouse immerses you in a relaxing ambiance typical of southern France.

There are plenty of things to see in Toulouse , including a UNESCO-listed Romanesque basilica and stately civic buildings constructed from the red bricks that earned the city its name, La Ville Rose .

UNESCO has designated the entire historic city center of Bordeaux as a World Heritage Site because of its cultural value and architectural treasures from the Age of Enlightenment. The city boasts nearly 350 buildings that are listed as Monuments Historiques .

Built up along the Garonne River in Southwest France, Bordeaux is a cosmopolitan port town with a heritage that stretches back to antiquity. The city flourished during the 18th century, which explains the coherence of Neoclassical buildings dating to that era.

Among Bordeaux's top tourist attractions are the UNESCO-listed 12th-century Cathédrale Saint-André and the 18th-century Grand-Théâtre, which hosts ballet, opera, and music performances.

Le Var region is a hidden gem of Southern France, nestled between Provence and the French Riviera. Lush woodlands, rolling hills, and farmlands define the landscape of this rural area. The countryside is dotted with historic towns, ancient abbeys, and beautiful villages.

You may visit La Chartreuse de La Verne , a serene Carthusian monastery (and listed Monument Historique ) that is open to the public. You will appreciate the peaceful setting, as well as the monastery's 12th-century Romanesque church and the ceramics (for sale at the monastery's boutique) that are handcrafted by the resident nuns. The boutique is closed on Sundays.

The Abbaye du Thoronet is another 12th-century abbey (classified as a Historic Monument ) hidden deep within a forest of oak and olive trees. The Thoronet Abbey is one of three important Cistercian monuments in the South of France (the others include the Silvacane Abbey and the Abbey of Sénanque in Provence). You may visit the abbey year-round.

The Var region is full of traditional country villages and towns featuring fountain-adorned squares and inviting outdoor cafés. Lorgues is typical with its many fountains, an impressive historic church, an atmospheric medieval quarter, and a weekly open-air market that draws many visitors.

Near Lorgues are two tourist attractions that appeal to luxury seekers and gourmands: the Château de Berne (in the town of Flayosc), a five-star Relais & Châteaux hotel set amid vine-cloaked fields and olive groves; and the famous Chez Bruno fine-dining restaurant (in Le Plan Campagne Mariette near the Château de Berne) that specializes in dishes made with truffles.

Sheltered by steep limestone cliffs, Cotignac (23 kilometers from Lorgues) is classified as a Village de Caractère du Var (Village of Character of the Var) as well as one of the Plus Beaux Villages thanks to its lovely ambiance, picturesque streets, and pleasant tree-lined central square.

If you love the great outdoors, be sure to see the Gorges du Verdon in the region's northeastern corner. Part of the Parc Naturel Régional du Verdon , this 700-meter-deep river canyon offers opportunities for swimming, water sports, and hiking.

About a 20-minute drive from Arles, the Camargue is a unique landscape of wetlands, marshlands, beaches, and sand dunes. The Parc Naturel Régional de Camargue is home to wild white horses, Camargue bulls (used in bullfighting), and over 300 species of birds including pink flamingos.

Within the Parc Naturel Régional de Camargue, Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer delights tourists with its sandy beaches and a wide selection of cafés, restaurants, and shops.

Just outside the Camargue Natural Regional Park are several noteworthy historic towns. Dating back to the 13th century, Aigues-Mortes has its medieval fortifications completely intact. These ancient walls conceal an atmospheric warren of narrow streets, steeped in the ambiance of the Middle Ages.

Salt marshes surround the town of Aigues-Mortes and less than two kilometers away is the Salin d'Aigues-Mortes , where the prized Fleur de Sel de Camargue sea salt is harvested by artisans in the centuries-old manner. At the Salin d'Aigues-Mortes site, you can take a guided or self-guided walking tour of the salt marshes. During July and August, watch workers harvest the Fleur de Sel salt.

The area around the Camargue Natural Regional Park boasts seaside vacation destinations: Le Grau-du-Roi (seven kilometers from Aigues-Mortes), an old fishing village that has been transformed into a modern resort; and Port Camargue (12 kilometers from Aigues-Mortes), which has sandy beaches.

The Plage de l'Espiguette ranks as one of the best beaches in France because of its pristine environment and calm deep-blue seas. This dreamy stretch of white-sand shoreline is a favorite summertime destination in the Languedoc-Roussillon region (a 45-minute drive from Montpellier).

At this wild unspoiled beach, outdoor activities are the main draw. Things to do include swimming, nature walks, horseback riding, kitesurfing, and fishing.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Other Highlights of France : Many travelers begin a vacation in France by visiting the capital city of Paris . The TGV high-speed train takes just over 2.5 hours from Paris to Avignon, a good starting point to explore Provence. For more trip-planning inspiration, read about the best places to visit in France . Other top tourist destinations include Normandy and the Loire Valley.

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22 Best Places to Visit in the South of France

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: June 11, 2024

Looking for the best places to visit in the South of France ? You’ve come to the right place. It had been quite some time since we’d traveled to the South of France, but this summer we had the good fortune of spending nearly a month revisiting this beautiful region. While taking a Canal du Midi cruise on our luxury houseboat with Le Boat , we had the chance to explore some of the lesser-known places in Southern France.

During this trip down the historic waterway, we were reminded of all the beautiful places in the South of France that we’ve taken over the years. France really has it all. So, if you are looking to branch out from the ordinary, check out the best places to visit in the South of France to create a holiday that will ignite all the senses.

Table of Contents

Top Places to visit in the South of France

Historic cities , the French Riviera, and beautiful beaches; the South of France oozes with energy and excitement. But what are the best places to visit in the South of France? Are you looking for a city filled with elegant architecture and cultural attractions? Or perhaps one of the beautiful medieval villages, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea surrounded by olive groves? Be it sandy beaches, art galleries, or traditional French cuisine , Southern France is a timeless holiday destination, and it’s easy to see why.

This guide will cover everything from the stunning natural attractions in the South of France to national parks and the best cities. Are you ready to get started? Let’s take a look.

Best cities and towns to visit in the South of France

When looking for the best places to visit in the South of France, a great place to start is with the region’s urban areas. South France has some incredible cities and towns. Let’s dive straight in.

1. Toulouse

Toulouse was an unexpected city in the South of France, located inland along the Spanish border. The city has the nickname ‘La Ville Rose’, meaning the pink city due to the pink bricks used to build most of its buildings. Toulouse is France’s fourth largest city after Paris, Marseilles, and Lyon and yet it is easy to explore on foot. When visiting Toulouse, you’ll feel as if you are visiting the authentic France with locals dining in outdoor cafes and students relaxing by the river’s edge. It is what we imagine Paris was like 50 years ago.

A bustling university city, Toulouse may be small, but it is filled with energy. There are plenty of attractions to see in Toulouse like the main square of La Capitole, Basilique Saint-Sernin de Toulouse, and the Musee Aeroscopia. Toulouse is the center of the aeronautics and space industry in France and this museum showcases its history and development.

If you go, make sure to pick up a Toulouse Pass to really explore the city. The Toulouse Pass  offers 1, 2, or 3-day passes that include public transport and free entrance into most of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.

There is an old town to wander, plenty of museums, and a fairly cutting-edge fashion scene. It is also the starting point of the Canal du Midi which winds its way down 240 km to the French Riviera. Toulouse is a fantastic place to visit in South France, and will definitely keep you entertained. Read more: Best Things to do in Toulouse France

2. Marseille

Marseille is the oldest city in Southern France. In fact, it is the oldest city in all of France and it is second in size only to Paris . Located on the Gulf de Lyon, which is part of the Mediterranean Sea, Marseille is the perfect blend of African and French culture. A trading hotspot and port hub since 600 BC, Marseille is one of the best places to visit in the South of France if you want a taste of history and ancient culture.

The most important part of Marseille is its Vieux Port. It is here that fisherman once sold their catch, and hundreds of years later, many still do. You should also visit the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde, the Musee des Beaux-Arts, and Palais Longchamp.

We suggest spending a minimum of three days in Marseille so that you experience the seafood scene, and its best attractions including a day trip out to Chateau d’If made famous by Alexander Dumas in The Count of Monte Cristo written by Alexander Dumas.

When visiting Marseille, we suggest getting a  Marseille City Pass  – The city pass is valid for 1-3 days and lets you hop on hop off to see all the top tourist attractions. With unlimited access to public transportation plus a tour on the Tourist train to Notre-Dame de la Garde or through the Old Marseille. You’ll have entry to MUCEM, and Regards de Provence Museum, plus crossing Frioul Island, or If Island with entrance to Chateau D’If. There are plenty of discounts, entry to municipal museums, and a guided city tour.  See details here.

Who hasn’t heard of Cannes? If you are visiting Southern France and craving a city experience, you must visit Cannes. The city is perhaps the most famous spot on the French Riviera thanks to the glitz and glamour it exudes on an annual basis. It is loved by celebrities, and adored for its annual film festival, The Cannes International Film Festival. It has many beloved beaches and cultural attractions as well.

Much of Cannes and its attractions can be experienced by walking (or driving) along the Boulevard de la Croisette. The boulevard spans the Cannes coastline, with stunning views over the Bay of Cannes on the Mediterranean Sea. The Boulevard de la Croisette is lined by luxury hotels, boutiques, and restaurants and caters perfectly to an upscale crowd.

Cannes is best for those who want luxury, resort-style atmosphere. When we visited Cannes, we couldn’t afford the luxury hotels and instead stayed at a campsite just out of town. But we still had the chance to brush shoulders with the rich and famous as we visited the beaches to work on our tans and enjoy a taste of that five-star hospitality.

Nice is the biggest city on the French Riviera which makes it one of the top places to visit in the South of France. It has the most urban feel out of all the places on our list and is ideal if you want to feel in the middle of all the action. A good choice for a hotel is Hotel Nice Riviera . This 4-star hotel is one block from the beach with reasonable prices.

Like Cannes, Nice has a scenic stretch of road along its coastline. Promenade des Anglais stretches 7 km and is where you’ll find the majority of attractions and the best ocean views. It is on the Promenade des Anglais that you’ll find the Nice Carnival, which takes place every February or March. You should walk the promenade, Old Town, and make time to visit the Castle Hill of Nice – an old medieval fortress overlooking the city.

Interestingly, Nice is also surrounded by a number of beautiful towns and villages – many of which date back to the Middle Ages. You can spend days relaxing in the city and on its beautiful beaches, taking the odd day trip to a medieval town for the best of both worlds. Read more: 24 Hours in Nice – Sometimes You Only have a Day to See it All

5. Aix en Provence

The region of Provence is one of the most magical regions in France, and Aix en Provence is everything you’d expect of a city in southern France. It has class, elegance, and history by the bucket loads. The former capital of Provence is perfect for tourists who value culture when choosing a holiday destination. Aix en Provence has a number of nicknames, including “The city of a Thousand Fountains” and “The City of Counts”. It is packed with things to do and see, and it has a noble atmosphere to match.

Aix en Provence is an artsy university town just 20 minutes north of Marseille.  It was also the birthplace and home of the great painter Paul Cezanne. The city is proud of this historical fact and traces of Cezanne can be found everywhere in the city. The Cezanne walk is your best way to see everything Cezanne.  This is a fun and interesting self-guided tour that Dave and I did on a sunny afternoon during our visit. Our walking tour took us around the Old Town, visiting Cezanne’s Studio, and Camp De Milles.

Some of the best things to do in Aix en Provence is to explore its art galleries, museums, and other historical attractions. Expect a lively nightlife scene and plenty of temporary exhibitions and events.

6. Saint Tropez

Yearning to be steps away from the ocean? Saint Tropez is the ideal candidate. Saint Tropez is perfect if you want glamour and beauty, yet a quieter feel than big cities like Nice. The small town sits on the French Riviera and was once a little fishing village.

The fishing village shot to popularity after being used as a filming location for And God Created Woman starring Brigitte Bardot in 1955. Since the 1960s tourists have been flocking to one of the most popular places to visit in the South of France, but Saint Tropez has still retained some of its most charming village qualities. You can still spot some little fishing boats in the Old Port, and La Ponche Quarter is still full of narrow streets with cobblestones.

The best beaches in Saint Tropez are Plage de Pampelonne, Plage St. Tropez and Bouillabaisse Beach. However, once you’ve spent a day on the beach make sure to experience the town’s hospitality scene, and don’t miss checking out the central square at the market at Place des Lices. It has a reputation for delicious food and fantastic locally owned restaurants; definitely try the fresh seafood and locally grown olives.

7. Saint Paul de Vence

Saint Paul de Vence is one of the oldest medieval villages on the French Riviera. Picture a walled town with cobblestone streets and historical, overhanging buildings. Everything is built from traditional stone and Saint Paul de Vence is the sort of place where every inch of rock feels like it has a story to tell.

The town sits on a hill overlooking the French Riviera. It is relatively easy to visit as a today trip from Nice but, if you can, you should try to stay in the town itself. Saint Paul de Vence feels like somewhere out of a fairy tale. Just walking through its cobbled streets and Old Town (remember a camera) is enough to keep you entertained for a full day.

It was once the home of famous painter Marc Chagall and when you visit one of its top attractions, the Cimetière de Saint-Paul-de-Vence, you will see his grave.

You should also dine at La Colombe d’Or , where the Roux family once let artists such as Picasso, Braque, Calder, and Matisse dine in exchange for now famous paintings. Eating delicious food is even better when you are surrounded by works of art while you eat.

8. Les Baux de Provence

Okay, we may be concentrating on cities and towns but the village of Les Baux de Provence was too beautiful not to include. This hilltop village is still protected by medieval walls and makes a wonderful, memorable getaway. In fact, it is so beautiful that the city is deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The top attractions in the village are, The ruins of Castillo de Los Baux, a 12th-century castle, and Carrieres de Lumieres. Carrieres de Lumieres (the quarry of lights) is a unique attraction with artwork projected onto the disused quarry’s limestone walls. Art enthusiasts will love the novelty of a digital exhibition, and the artwork displayed changes frequently which keeps the quarry exciting to visit.

Sure, Les Baux de Provence is quiet and distanced from the Mediterranean Sea, however, the village has a film set feel and is bursting with history and charm. If you want a quaint, lesser experienced impression of Southern France, Les Baux de Provence is a fantastic place to visit. You may also like Enchanting Medieval Villages in France – The French Riviera

9. Saint Rémy de Provence

Saint Remy de Provence is another gorgeous, rural town located on the outskirts of the Alpilles Natural Regional Park. Not only does Saint Remy de Provence have beautiful architecture and quiet urban scenery, but its natural beauty was also the muse of a very popular artist.

Vincent Van Gogh lived in Saint Remy for a year, where he checked himself into a mental hospital and began one of his most prolific working periods. It was in Saint Remy that he painted The Starry Night. Whether you are a Van Gogh fan, art enthusiast, or just intrigued, Saint Remy is a great place to learn more about art history.

Musee Estrine Presence Van Gogh is the best attraction for learning more about the artist. Glanum is the best attraction for history and is an old Roman town and extensive archeological site. You can also visit the Monastery Saint Paul de Mausole – the psychiatric asylum where Van Gogh was admitted. Saint Remy de Provence has lots to keep you entertained.

10. Vers Pont Du Gard

Vers Pont Du Gard is another small town and, like Saint Remy, has lots of surrounding Roman heritage. The most famous Roman attraction is the Pont du Gard bridge and aqueduct, which have been protected and maintained to still stand today. I remember taking our road trip in the South of France and making a detour for the sole purpose of seeing this bridge. Vers Pont Du Gard is full of impressive architecture, and if you like visiting places with character, you will certainly be in for a treat.

Once you’ve visited the town’s bridge, the Pont du Gard Museum and Chapel Notre Dame de Laval are the best attractions to enjoy. You can also swim and fish in the River Gardon. Despite being inland, being located next to a river makes Vers Pont Du Gard an enjoyable destination even in the height of summer. You aren’t sacrificing much by skipping beach days for river days, and taking a dip is refreshing on a hot day.

Arles is our final recommendation and easily one of the best places to visit in the South of France. In the ancient Roman period, Arles was once a provincial capital. Today, many of the architecture and historical sites remain – including Arles Amphitheater.

We recommend catching a performance at the Arles Amphitheater, taking a Van Gogh walking tour to see the areas which inspired famous works, and visiting the cloisters at St. Trophime. Arles has lots of religious and artistic history, so allow lots of time for sightseeing.

The city itself sits on the banks of the Rhone River. It is flanked by the Camargue Nature Reserve and, while located inland, is less than an hour’s drive from some of the best beaches on the Riviera. If you are looking to hire a car and explore lots of France, Arles is a wonderful base.

Best natural places to visit in the South of France

Now that we’ve covered the best cities and towns let’s look at the best natural places to visit in the South of France.

Southern France is full of amazing natural places to visit, whether you want to use them as a day trip or just arrange to stay nearby. You best have a Google Maps account because you’ll need offline maps to head to these spots. These places are the creme de la creme.

12. Verdon Natural Regional Park

Verdon Natural Regional Park is one of the best places to explore natural attractions, not just hiking trails and beautiful views. Located in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, the 180,000-hectare park is most known for the Gorges du Verdon and Lake Croix.

The Gorges du Verdon is a 25 km (15.5 miles) long river canyon with a brilliant milky blue river. Expect white water rapids and steep cliffs reaching up to 700 meters (0.4 mi) on either side of the river. This natural wonder is the deepest gorge in France. You can hike to numerous viewpoints, or even book a rafting experience for a bit of extra exhilaration. The Gorges du Verdon is a big deal and is known as France’s answer to the Grand Canyon .

After exiting the Verdon Gorge, the river runs straight out into the Lake of Sainte-Croix. There are three villages along its shores and you can take your pick to grab a bite to eat and go for a swim.

13. Calanques National Park

Calanques National Park covers both ocean and land, and the 128,000-acre reserve is situated on the coastline an hour’s drive from Marseilles en route to Cassis. If your idea of heaven is coastal hikes with hidden coves and dramatic cliff faces, then Calanques is a perfect spot. It is the only national park in Europe that is located near urban areas and is both on land and sea.

The word ‘Calanques’ describes a dolomite or limestone inlet – basically dramatic pale grey or white sea cliffs. The park is full of these beautiful areas and you should definitely invest in a good quality camera so that you have pictures to cherish after your holiday.

Keep your eyes peeled while hiking as well, as the marine reserves are popular spots for pods of dolphins. The park has over 140 species of protected animals and plants, which is a nature lover’s dream.

14. Natural Reserve of the Courant d’Huchet

Compared to the other spots on this list, the Natural Reserve of the Courant d’Huchet is tiny. However, it has some of the most striking landscapes and is easily one of the best natural places to visit in the South of France. It is located an hour’s drive north of Biarritz and makes for a fantastic day trip.

The reserve is primarily marshland but has a beach in the midst of the park. The beach contains high hills of sand dunes that beautifully contrast the surrounded marshes and forest. Visitors can head to the beach to swim and climb the sand dunes.

You can also hike the network of trails, spotting native animals and flora as you walk. If you want something really different though, we recommend a boat tour. You can hire a boat to explore independently or take a tour for a more informative experience – whichever takes your fancy.

15. Baronnies Provencales Regional Natural Park

Have you ever seen those artsy lavender field photos plastered all over Instagram? Well, Baronnies Provencales Regional Natural Park is where you can take your very own. Apart from its remote villages and low-lying mountains, Baronnies Provencales is full of lavender fields. If you visit the South of France between June and September, you should definitely make your way to the park to see them.

Baronnies Provencales Regional Natural Park is about an hour and a half drive from Avignon. You could visit on a day trip or find accommodation in one of the park’s villages. Apart from the lavender fields, you’ll find thousands of hiking trails and other outdoor activities.

16. Regional Park of Camargue

Camargue Park is famous for many things, including the once wild herds of Camargue horses. The Camargue horses are highly prized in France and are considered to be one of the most ancient horse breeds in the world. While breeding is strictly regulated now, you might still be lucky enough to spot a semi-feral herd.

Apart from the horses, Camargue Natural Regional Park features wetlands, rough grazing areas, and a marine reserve. It is also located along the coastline, just outside of Marseilles and near the city of Arles.

The best things to do in Camargue are animal related. You can spot flamingoes at Ornithological Park of Pont de Gau and visit a ranch to take a horseback ride out to spot the semi-feral horses from afar.

17. Alpilles Regional Nature Park

Fancy getting active? Alpilles Regional Nature Park has the most to offer in terms of biking, hiking, and horseback riding trails with plenty of equestrian centers. With all its limestone rock formations and cliffs, there is plenty of climbing opportunities as well.

Alpilles has a great mix of activities. Whether you want history, culture, a fitness challenge, or a new profile picture, Alpilles has enough diversity to match your needs. It is a walkers paradise with hiking trails through pine forests, olive groves, and vineyards.

You can also easily visit the castle, and quarry art display in nearby Les Baux de Provence which we already mentioned above.

18. Sainte Baume Natural Regional Park

Sainte Baume Natural Regional Park is where the alpine meets the Mediterranean. The park is full of dramatic limestone mountains, ridges, and pine tree forests.

Climbers will love Saint Baume, which is centered around a long mountain ridge. There’s a great range of climbing routes to explore, ranging in difficulty and style. Sainte Baume also holds lots of religious significance. Visitors will find a grotto where Mary Magdalene allegedly lived. The site is popular amongst pilgrims and can be reached via a pretty forest path in around forty minutes.

19. Pyrenees National Park

Pyrenees National Park is one of the best places to visit in the South of France. The park sits on the French-Spanish border and we were surprised to find them in South France. We had known the Pyrenees from our time in Spain, but we always thought of them as further north. We were surprised to see the mountains while cruising in 40-degree heat to Carcassonne.

From alpine meadows and high-altitude lakes to towering, craggy mountains, the park is stunning. If you want an exciting, beautiful place to visit in Southern France, Pyrenees National Park is bucket list worthy.

Cirque de Gavarnie is one of the most famous attractions in the Pyrenees of France. A cirque is a large cliff face that curves in shape like a huge, natural amphitheater. Cirque de Gavarnie is best known for its many waterfalls, which cascade down the cliff walls.

Apart from the Cirque de Gavarnie, the park is full of hiking trails, endless outdoor activities, and climbing opportunities. If you love mountain climbing in particular, you’ll love it here.

20. Landes de Gascogne Regional Natural Park

Landes de Gascogne Regional Natural Park is a nature reserve first and foremost, which we love. The park caters to tourism but in environmentally friendly ways, and there are attractions like an eco-museum and bird sanctuary to visit.

The park sits in southwest France, including some coastal areas and some inland. Visitors can kayak down rivers, swim in natural lakes, or hike the numerous trails. Landes de Gascogne is a serene, beautiful park that is bursting with nature. Visitors can cherish being surrounded by hundreds of different species of flora and fauna.

21. Narbonnaise en Mediterranee Natural Regional Park

Narbonnaise en Mediterranee is a diverse region. You’ll find beaches, cliffs, forests, and even vineyards. The vineyards are particularly popular, and some people refer to the park as the land of wine.

You can go wine tasting, take a hike, or go for a camping getaway. Narbonnaise en Mediterranee is about an hour and a half’s drive from Montpellier and Toulouse. It sits on the Mediterranean coastline and is ideally combined with a beach holiday. If you want somewhere to wine taste and explore, it is a small, beautiful, and easy natural place to visit in Southern France.

22. Mercantour National Park

A stunning 167,297-acre park, Mercantour is a mixture of alpine lakes, irregular mountain ranges, and lots of scenic hiking trails. Even better? It is just an hour’s drive away from Nice.

The park is diverse and relatively unvisited compared to France’s other national parks. For those that make the trip though, there are endless rewards. You’ll discover tiny villages and mountain communities where many people still live off of the land. You can sample decadent cheeses and sumptuous honey and maybe even bring some home as a souvenir.

After appreciating the cultural side of Mercantour, you can dive straight into its outdoor activities. Hike, bike, climb, swim, and ride until your heart is content.

It’s no secret that the South of France is mesmerizing. This is just the tip of the iceberg of places to visit in the South of France.

We hope that this helped give you a sense of what you can see and do from walking cobblestone streets in medieval towns or lazing on sandy beaches on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. All of these places to visit in the South of France are worth visiting. Glamorous, historical, and naturally beautiful, the South of France is sure to guarantee memories for a lifetime.

Plan Your Next Trip to France With These Resources

• 22 Beautiful Cities in France To Visit
• Where To Stay In Paris – Best Neighborhoods and Hotels
• 3 Days in Paris: The Best Paris Itinerary for Your First Visit
• French Food: 24 Traditional Dishes To Try in France or At Home
• 11 Interesting and Fun Facts About France
• 27 Free Things to do in Paris, France

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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Home » Travel Guides » France » 15 Best Places to Visit in the South of France

15 Best Places to Visit in the South of France

The South of France is the embodiment of style and sophistication, and might make you think of the jazz age, the jet set in the 50s, impressionist painters, ochre-hued Provençal villages or Roman ruins.

It’s all of that and a whole lot more, so we’ve tried to curate a list that ticks all the boxes, with famous cities that make the headlines, and towns forever linked to the artists or writers who were inspired by them.

So whether you’re drawn by the South of France’s history, landscapes, culture, food or beaches there should be a place on this list to tempt you.

Lets explore the best places to visit in the South of France :

For a time in the middle ages this city on the banks of the Rhône was the centre of western Christendom.

Six papal conclaves were held in the spellbinding Palace of the Popes in the 14th century, and the building has fascinating little vestiges from this time, like the invaluable gothic frescoes still on the walls of the papal apartments.

The exalted ruins of Pont Saint-Bénézet are also from this period, poking out half-way across the river, guarded by a gatehouse and boasting the little medieval chapel of Saint Nicholas.

Browse the arty walled town, take a cruise on the Rhône, and see if you can come for the Theatre Festival in July, when Avignon becomes one giant stage.

2. Carcassonne

The Cité de Carcassonne, above the right bank of the Aude is a sight that can you dream: Walls have encircled this part of the city since the 4th century, but they were beefed up in the 13th century to stand as a barrier against the Crown of Aragon to the south.

After the 1600s they were no longer needed and allowed to decay, until the architect Viollet-le-Duc came along and gave them a romantic overhaul in the 1800s.

Carcassonne has much more besides: The Canal du Midi crosses the city and is a mind-blowing accomplishment from the 1600s, while the stained glass windows in the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus are some of the loveliest you will ever see.

3. Aix-en-Provence

Aix differs from the first two entries in that people visit this town, not so much for sights, but for its less tangible, atmospheric qualities.

On the evocative Cours Mirabeau, with its plane trees, fountains and elegant mansion, you’ll visit the haunts of the many famous personalities connected to Aix, like Paul Cézanne, Ernest Hemingway and Émile Zola.

You can continue the Cézanne theme by making the pilgrimage to Montaigne Saint-Victoire, just to the east of the city.

This jagged limestone ridge was a scene that Paul Cézanne returned to paint time and again in the late-19th century.

Nice is grander, a city of spacious squares and long esplanades.

It was one of the first coastal destinations to attract tourists, furnishing it with imposing 19th-century palaces and hotels on the Promenade des Anglais.

You can duck down the alleys of Vieux Nice to shop at the boutiques and flower market at Cours Selaya, or ascend the Colline du Château for a view that never ceases to delight.

If you don’t mind pebbles you can also join the select few who go down to sun bathe on Nice’s beaches.

Even in July and August it’s never exactly heaving on the shore and most visitors stick to the promenade.

Nice also has a clutch of artists who swore by the city: Marc Chagall and Henri Matisse both have dedicated museums here.

Chances are you’ll know one of Albi’s most famous sons even if you don’t recognise his name: Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec painted those iconic scenes of dancers at the Moulin Rouge, and created the art nouveau posters inextricably associated with the Belle Époque.

The museum in his name at the Albi’s Episcopal Palace has the largest single collection of his work in the world, with more than 1,000 pieces.

Its brick gothic home is also a UNESCO site, part of a group of dominating red brick buildings designed to inspire awe.

None more so than Albi cathedral, which looks like a fortress and was erected in the 13th century as a declaration of Catholic power after the suppression of the Cathar sect in this region.

6. Lourmarin

The little town just to the south of the Luberon Massif is the quintessence of Provence.

All the ingredients are here, particularly the landscape of mountains, orchards and vineyards that frames the Caselas belfry.

Lourmarin is one of France’s “most beautiful” villages, but is much more than an outdoor museum: It’s a lively little place, with 15 cafes and restaurants that make use of what little outdoor space they can find on this tangle of streets.

And, inevitably, there’s a cultural giant linked to the town.

Albert Camus lived and wrote here, and is buried in the town’s cemetery.

7. Biarritz

In the 19th century the European elites “discovered” Biarritz, and turned it from a seaside village into one of Europe’s most luxurious resorts.

Summing up this swift transformation is the Hôtel du Palais, built as a summer getaway in 1855 for Eugénie de Montijo, Empress of the French and wife of Napoleon III. Families flock to the Grand Plage, a broad golden sandy beach in front of regal turn-of-the- century landmarks like the Casino Barrière.

There are also good swells for surfers on the Grand Plage, as well as at Côte des Basques just along the shore.

North of Nîmes, with its profusion of Roman monuments, is the understated town of Uzès.

The nerve centre of this little place is the Place aux Herbes, where in summer the sunlight is scattered by the square’s plane trees, and the arcades on all sides shelter restaurants and cafes.

One of the south’s most celebrated markets is also held in these arches on Saturdays.

The square is the best place to begin a walking tour of this town with its feudal towers and creamy limestone mansions from the 1600s and 1700s.

You can scale the 100 steps of the Royal Tower for the best view of the symbolic Tour Fenestrelle, the romanesque campanile of Uzès Cathedral.

9. Marseille

Chaotic, cosmopolitan and edgy, Marseille challenges all of the stereotypes about Provence and the French Riviera.

It’s France’s second city and the country’s largest port, with a lot of diversity, epitomised by the hectic Nouailles Market.

The colossal Old Port, founded by the Phocaeans 2,600 years ago, is still the best place to see Marseille in action.

And for one of France’s most recognisable landmarks, make your way up to Notre-Dame de la Garde, at the highest point in the city, just to the south of the Old Port.

The new MuCEM is a high-profile attraction devoted to the history of the Mediterranean, while Marseille can also be your gateway to the Calanques, those vast fjord-like cliffs to the south of the city.

10. Pézenas

Up to the late-1700s Pézenas was the seat of the Governors of Languedoc, which has left this town in Hérault with plenty of stately renaissance and  baroque architecture for a place with just 8,000 inhabitants.

More than 100 buildings have been listed as “historic” in Pézenas.

You can check in with the tourism office for the locations of all of Pézenas’ “hôtels”, and begin a walking tour you won’t soon forget.

A famous citizen from this period is the revered 17th-century comedy writer Molière, who performed at the theatre here several times in the 1650s and spent time in the court of Armand de Bourbon, the Prince of Conti, inspiring some of his early works.

There’s a small exhibition to the writer at this plush monument.

A UNESCO site for its abundance of Roman and romanesque architecture, Arles has a Roman theatre, amphitheatre, baths, necropolis and aqueduct to discover.

The 12th-century Church of St. Trophime is immensely valuable too, for the peerless romanesque sculptures above the portal.

The city didn’t miss out on impressionist painters either, as van Gogh produced some 300 works in his year in Arles, and shared the “Yellow House” with Gauguin for nine weeks.

Arles is also in the north of the Camargue, a region of salt flats, marshes and meadows where semi-feral white horses roam free, and fighting bulls are bred for export to Spain.

Between April and June the briny lagoons and reedy marshes in the Camargue teem with thousands of flamingos, one of the most amazing natural spectacles in the south.

12. Toulouse

On the Garonne River, the old centre of this university city is replete with stately 18th-century neoclassical buildings all made with a pinkish terracotta.

This has won Toulouse the nickname “La Ville Rose”, exemplified by the glorious facade of the Capitole.

There are older monuments in the city, sure to set historians’ pulses racing.

The Church of the Jacobins is the resting place of Thomas Aquinas, the 12th-century friar with a lasting influence on modern philosophy.

You can spot the World Heritage Basilica of Saint-Sernin by its spired bell-tower, and if you take a close look, you’ll see how the design of the arches changes with phase of construction.

A typical “village perché”, Gordes is a small medieval town on a hilltop in the Luberon range.

Gordes is one of the “most beautiful” villages in France, and you can be sure that it intends to remain so.

Any new buildings in Gordes must be built with limestone and capped with terracotta tiles! Like many of Provence’s rustic settlements, Gorde has attracted celebrities in their droves.

The town’s cobblestone streets coil around the hill, and at the top is a renaissance castle containing the town hall and a small art museum.

Minutes from here is Sénanque Abbey, feted for the image of its walls at the end of a lavender field.

14. Bordeaux

Another of the south of France’s many World Heritage sites is Bordeaux’s historic quarter.

This was mostly planned in the 1700s, when the city became too big to keep within the walls.

So there was a large urban remodel endowing Bordeaux with many of the sights and monuments people adore today.

This goes for Grand Théâtre, Place de la Bourse and the Place du Parlement.

Add these to the list of medieval must-sees, like the Grosse Cloche, the 15th-century belfry of the old town hall, and the ghostly gothic cathedral.

We haven’t even mentioned that Bordeaux is the world capital of wine, or that it’s a fun-loving university town with some of France’s best nightlife outside Paris.

15. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

The little capital of the Alpilles, a small range of low mountains to the south of Avignon, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a medieval town blasted by the legendary mistral in winter and spring.

On clear days this creates that unique light that attracted the impressionists, and van Gogh made 150 paintings in and around this town.

Art lovers will get frissons when they notice a scene or building immortalised by the artist.

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is adorned with mansions from the 17th and 18th centuries, when it was a prestigious place to be.

This was partly to do with Glanum, the ancient city a few minutes’ walk from the town.

There’s a 2,000 year-old triumphal arch, sacred spring and one of the most intact mausoleums in the former Roman world.

15 Best Places to Visit in the South of France:

• Carcassonne
• Aix-en-Provence
• Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Home » Europe » 20 Best Places to Visit in the South of France

20 Best Places to Visit in the South of France

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: May 3, 2023

Endless vineyards, hillside towns, pastel villages, and cities packed with history–these are the places and sites that make the South of France an unmissable destination. From Roman ruins to dramatic landscapes and quaint city squares, you’ll find a little of everything here. Between Provence, the French Riveria, and the southwestern part of the country, we’ve spent considerable time exploring the best places to visit in the South of France. Here’s a look at some of our favorites.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is one of the best cities in the South of France to visit. Often called the City of a Thousand Fountains, Aix is known for its water features, markets, and beautiful pedestrian lanes and squares dotted with plane trees.

A visit to Aix is about being and soaking in the good life. Wander the farmers markets , pull up a chair at one of the cafes, or sample some of the many Provencal specialties at the restaurants and artisan shops.

If you’re looking to visit some of the top attractions in Aix , there are several interesting places to go. The Hotel de Caumont in the city center is an 18 th -century mansion featuring period furnishings. It also has a charming garden and café and features rotating exhibits by well-known artists.

Just outside the center, the Atelier Cezanne is another must-visit. The studio of painter and Aix-en-Provence native Paul Cezanne looks now just as it did when the artists died in 1906. His smock, supplies, and some of his favorite subject matter is still displayed here in a space that looks like he just stepped out for lunch.

Splashed in blues, yellows, and greens, visiting Arles makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a Van Gogh painting for good reason—you have. The artist produced over 200 pieces when he lived here. Throughout the city, there are replicas of the works in the exact spots where he painted them with plaques that provide some of the backstory.

Arles has a lot to offer even for those who aren’t art lovers. It is packed with history, ambiance, and lots of great food. A visit here is a highlight of any southern France itinerary .

Right in the center of town is Arles Amphitheater , a two-tiered theater that dates from 90 AD and still hosts events. A short walk from the center is Alyscamps , a Roman necropolis that is now an open-air museum lined with sarcophagi and several chapels. Once the main burial site for the city, it is an interesting look back at thousands of years of history. Both places have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

If you visit Arles on a Wednesday or Saturday, the market on the ring road will be impossible to miss. Stroll through to see the Mediterranean and North African cuisines on display and buy provisions for a picnic.

Saint-Remy-de-Provence

With less than 10,000 residents, Saint-Remy-de-Provence is the type of town where you just want to stay for a while. There are plenty of restaurants, shops, and things to see, and the pace is typically relaxed, which can be welcome in contrast to some of the larger cities in southern France.

Visitors can see most of the town in just a few hours. Or you can linger much long and explore the honeysuckle and wisteria-covered buildings, fountains, and colorful facades.

Located in Chaine des Alpilles, a small mountain range, Saint Remy has been inhabited for centuries. In fact, one of its main attractions is the archaeological site of Glanum . Many of the ruins there are from Romans who took over the area in the 1 st century BC. Some of the most notable structures are free to visit right along the road and include a triumphal arch that dates from about 10 BC and a funerary monument of a similar age.

A somewhat more contemporary site is Saint-Paul de Mausole , the psychiatric hospital where Vincent Van Gogh was treated for a about year in 1889 and 1890 shortly before his death. His room is preserved as it was during his stay, and you can explore the grounds and the works he painted there, including Starry Night .

Verdon Gorge

The first thing that catches your attention at the Verdon Gorge is the electric blue water. One of the most stunning natural places to visit in the South of France, this river canyon is 15 miles long and up to .4 miles deep. The limestone cliffs make for incredible scenery.

Paragliding over the canyon and climbing its walls are also popular, but we’re partial to being on the water. 

There are three main ways to enjoy the Verdon Gorge river up close—by stand-up paddleboard, kayak, or electric boat. All the watercrafts are available to rent at Base Nautique de l’Etoile at the beginning of the gorge.

The second largest city in France, Marseille is a sprawling metropolis with a history stretching back to 600 BC.  

The cosmopolitan city has been an important trading hub since the Middle Ages and has been influenced by all the cultures coming here to do business from southern Europe to North Africa, Asia, and beyond. The Old Port is still at the heart of the city where visitors and locals stroll along the harbor, watch the boats come in, and catch sightseeing cruises to visit the calanques.

One of the best views of the Old Port is from Notre-Dame de la Garde , a hilltop basilica filled with mosaics and topped with a gilded statue of the Madonna and Child. A visit here is one of the top things to do in Marseille.

Marseille has numerous notable museums and a sprawling park (often compared to New York’s Central Park) built around an 18 th -century mansion complete with walking paths, a rose garden, and a lake. For something completely different, visit Cours Julien and Le Panier, the biggest areas for street art in the city .

L’Isle sur la Sorgue

The picturesque town of L’isle sur la Sorgue is situated on the Sorgue River whose canals run beside the ancient streets. Many of the waterwheels that once powered the silk, dyeing, and paper industries are still in place, giving visitors a glimpse into the town’s rich past. Some of them still move, though the show is now just for people’s enjoyment.

In addition to its beautiful setting, people are drawn to L’isle sur la Sorgue for “treasure hunting” and the promise of a bargain. Nearly 300 antique dealers call the town home and specialize in art, furniture, and all manner of unique items. They have an important place in the large weekly market that spills forth all around the center of town.

Visitors will also enjoy the historic mansions that have been converted into art galleries. Don’t miss the Hotel Donadei de Campredon , an 18th-century mansion that is now an art museum featuring modern and contemporary art including sculpture, paintings, and photography.

Roussillon has been a protected village since 1943. With less than 1300 residents, it has no modern development – just cafes, winding lanes, and amazing views.

The village is most known for having the largest ochre deposit in the world, which is found on the south end of town. The yellow, red, and orange hills are hard to believe until you actually step foot on the brightly hued paths. If you want to walk through the unusual landscape ( a significant landmark in the country ), there are 30- or 60-minute routes to choose from, but pick your clothing carefully so you don’t end up with stained pants or shoes.

If you visit Roussillon on Thursday, take the opportunity to visit the small weekly market. It focuses primarily on specialty items such a linens, soaps, wines, and ochre pigments.

Pont du Gard

One of the most popular places to see when touring the South of France is the Pont du Gard . It’s difficult to imagine the sheer size of the 2000-year-old aqueduct until you see it up close.

The three tiers of the impressive Roman ruin tower 160 feet above the Gardon River. In the summer, people flock to kayak and swim in the chilly waters that flow around the aqueduct.

The old town of Uzes is ringed by circular streets. In the Middle Ages, these streets were walls designed to protect the Duke’s Castle at its heart. Visiting the town, you can still see towers, medieval gardens, the castle, and streets that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in history about 800 years. 

While the towers and medieval structures are impressive, the real appeal of Uzes comes in wandering through its streets and among its limestone buildings. It’s even better if you find yourself in town on a market day.

On market days—Wednesday and Saturday—much of the town feels taken over by the market sprawling through the streets, though is it centered around the Place aux Herbes. Wednesday is focused on food, including locally grown produce and specialties. The Saturday market adds flowers and household items such as linens, housewares, clothes, and jewelry.

At the same time, regular businesses set up shop outdoors and all the sidewalk cafes fill with people. The atmosphere is welcoming and lively.

Avignon is a lively city teeming with businesses, cafes, a university, and tons of character. The attractions of its historic core have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites thanks to their architecture and the unique events that took place here. 

At the heart of Avignon is the Palace of the Popes, the largest Gothic palace in Europe. In the 14th century, it was the home of the popes when the papacy moved to Avignon from Rome. Seven legitimate popes and, later, two anti-popes ruled the Catholic Church from France while living here. Though it was was once lavishly decorated, the palace was plundered over the centuries. Nevertheless, it remains one of the top places to see in France. 

There are lots of things to do in Avignon beyond the palace as well. Walk along Saint Bénezet bridge (aka Pont d’Avignon), the famous 12th-century bridge to nowhere. Have lunch at one of the restaurants on Place de l’Horloge or stroll through the Parc Rocher des Doms. End your day at Pinotage, a floating wine bar in the Rhone River where you can watch the sunset over the city. 

If you’d like to explore beyond the center, head to Manguin Distillery, which has made its famous pear brandy for over 50 years. On Saturday mornings you can join a distillery tour and taste a variety of their products. You might even see bottles attached to the trees outside where the the pears are actually growing inside the bottles.

Nimes is a workaday city with a handful of well-preserved Roman ruins.

Its covered food market,  Les Halles , bustles with energy as locals buy Provencal specialties such as brandade de morue (pureed salt cod and olive oil) or green olives. As with the other markets, there is also plenty of meat and vegetables on offer plus a handful of restaurants where locals gather sipping wine and catching up on the news.

A short walk from the market is one of the ruins, the Maison Carree . It is one of the best-preserved temples in the Roman Empire, which is amazing when you consider that it is over 2000 years old. Nearby, the Arena of Nimes, which dates from 70AD, is a preserved Roman amphitheater where visitors can still walk the ancient arcades. 

Wrap up your trip with a stroll around the gorgeous Les Jardins de la Fontaine, a 18th-century public park with gardens and ponds. If you would rather be indoors, visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts of Nimes . It is a fantastic museum featuring a collection of 3600 impressive works of fine art and sculpture from Roman times to the Old Masters.

Porquerolles

Off the southeastern coast of France, the small island of Porquerolles is a unique getaway. Only about 200 people live on this car-free island where much of the land is part of a national park and nature conservation area.

A 15-minute ferry ride from Hyeres on the French Riviera takes visitors to the port of Porquerolles where you can walk or rent a bike to visit the local beaches, shops, and vineyard. There is also an art gallery and a 14 th -century fort with a beautiful viewpoint. We spent a day relaxing on Plage d’Argent and are already plotting a return.

Cassis is a gem of a town. With stunning natural features, harborside restaurants serving great food, and a dramatic mountain drive, we love it so much that we’ve included it in our southern France travel on two trips.

The town is most noted as a jumping off point to visit the calanques— white limestone cliffs that plunge dramatically into the Mediterranean Sea. Some of them have small beaches that can be visited by hiking in. Sea kayaks and boat tours are also popular ways to see them from a little further away.

If you want to stick a little closer to town, walk the marina area to browse the shops or go to the beach that’s just steps from the center. Relax at one of the cafes with some fresh seafood while you marvel at the colors of all the boats. Consider a sunset drive (or take a taxi) on La Route des Cretes , a breathtaking mountain drive that takes you high above the town for one of the most scenic things to do in Provence .

The hilltop village of Gordes is one of the cutest in France. The impression it makes is dramatic from the moment you first see it, seeming to tumble down the hill from its perch high above the valley.

Close up, the stone buildings of Gordes are laced together by narrow cobblestone streets that climb or descend the hill, depending on your perspective. Major sites include Gordes Castle, which originally dates to 1031, and the Cellars of Saint Fermin Palace , a site carved out of rock by Gordes residents in the Middle Ages that includes an olive oil mill, cisterns, and more.

Chateauneuf-du-Pape

Châteauneuf-du-Pape is all about wine. The tiny town not far from Avignon appears to rise up from a hill surrounded in every direction by vineyards.

At its center is part of the chateau built by Pope John XXII in the 14th century as a refuge from the city’s heat in the summer. During their time here, it was the popes who planted the town’s original grapevines. Over the years, the chateau was partially destroyed, but the part that still stands can be seen from miles around.

The tiny village has a selection of good restaurants and medieval houses in its winding lanes. And, of course, there are lots of wine shops and cellars. Many of them offer tastings of the area’s famous wines. Most are red, but there is also a selection of good whites available.

There are also lots of surrounding wine estates that welcome visitors. Chateau des Fines Roches is one of the newer, more commercial estates, but the wines are good and you’re guaranteed to be able to taste at almost any time.

Ancient Roman Theatre of Orange

The city of Orange, France, is renowned for its Roman architecture. Its main site, the Ancient Theater of Orange , is astonishingly well preserved for a 2000-year-old structure, and it is still used for special summer performances.

The original statue of the Emperor Augustus still looks down on the crowd from its original niche on the stage. Visitors can climb on the ancient seats and even walk on the historic stage.

Saint-Emilion

The tiny town of Saint-Emilion has welcomed visitors for centuries to sample the rich red wines the area is known for. 

There are nearly 1000 chateaux to choose from in Saint-Emilion, so the decision about where to go can be a hard one.  if you’re not able to make plans in advance, the tourism office can suggest a few that are open the day of your visit. 

Beyond the vineyards, Saint-Emilion is known for its UNESCO-listed Monolithic Church . The underground church was dug out of limestone in the early 12th century in honor of the hermit monk Emilion who lived in a cave on the site 400 years earlier. The tourism office offers daily tours of the church, the catacombs, and related sites, which is the only way to get an inside look at this part of the village’s history.

Wandering the steep alleys of the village is also a great way to spend an afternoon. Stop at a restaurant, browse the shops, and take in the views. L’Envers du Décor is an excellent option for lunch, and you can stop by the historic Les Cordeliers cloisters to enjoy the grounds and taste their range of Crémant de Bordeaux sparkling wines.

Exquisite architecture, fresh seafood, a vibrant city with an historic core, and some of the best wine in the world—these are the things that make Bordeaux one of the best places to visit in the South of France. Even better, the whole city is highly walkable, with pedestrian-only areas and welcoming squares.

There is an endless selection of things to do in Bordeaux . Visit Mirior d’Eau, a giant pool that creates a unique reflection on its surface. Stroll under the trees at Place des Quinconces, the largest city square in France, and visit one of the regular festivals there. For a break, check out the vendors at Les Halles de Bacalan , a modern food hall with over 20 different merchants.

Don’t miss La Cite du Vin , the amazing, interactive wine museum where you can learn all about wine making and sample lots of varietals from around the world. For a slightly different take on imbibing, visit Moon Harbour Distillery —the first whiskey distillery in Bordeaux. Take a tour or do a tasting at its unique facility, a former German World War II submarine bunker.

Biarritz is all about the ocean. On the coast of southwestern France and just 20 miles from the border with Spain, this luxurious destination in the Basque Country welcomes visitors to enjoy its sun and sand.

Windy Biarritz is the surfing capital of Europe, drawing people from around the world for casual enjoyment as well as competitions. Even if you’re not surfing yourself, it’s fun to watch the riders do their best tricks among the waves.

The seaside destination also has attractions focusing on the ocean. At the Biarritz Aquarium , visitors can see 50 aquariums filled with thousands of species of sea life, including sharks, seals, rays, and turtles. Just down the coast at City of the Ocean , you can try the surfing simulator, experience the virtual reality shark exhibit, or listen to seafaring explorers explain the mysteries of the ocean.

For something a little calmer, enjoy the Grande Plage, try your luck at the Bellevue casino, or explore the Hotel du Palais—a grand hotel that was originally the imperial residence of Napoleon III and Empress Eugenie.

Saint-Jean-de-Luz

A short drive from Biarritz, the coastal town of Saint-Jean-de-Luz is where to go in the South of France if you’re in search of relaxation. It’s all about enjoying the beach, surfing, and discovering charming town squares.

Like its northern neighbor Biarritz, Saint-Jean-de-Luz has ideal conditions for surfing and sunbathing. Walking along the seawall provides a great vantage point for seeing all the activity.

When you’re ready for a break from the ocean, check out the town squares. One of the most inviting is Place Louis XIV, which has lots of bars and restaurants plus occasional live music and painters who capture the scene en plein air (outside), which is fascinating to watch.

A few steps from the square, you can visit Maison Louis XIV , a 17 th -century home where the Sun King stayed while anticipating his marriage to the Infanta of Spain, Maria Theresa. They married in 1660 at the church of St-Jean-Baptiste nearby, which is also open for visiting.

Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.

In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.

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21 Epic Places to Visit in the South of France

If you start planning a trip to southern France, it quickly becomes apparent that there are endless amazing places to visit in the south of France.

From castles to medieval cities, from lavender fields to the sparkling sea of the Cote d’Azur, the south of France is absolutely littered with incredible places to visit–not even a lifetime could hope to cover them all.

While this list could never hope to be exhaustive (beautiful Bordeaux isn’t included here, for example), we’ve rounded up some truly epic places to visit in the south of France–including some of our personal favorite spots.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Table of Contents

Map of the Best Places to Visit in the South of France

Cities + towns, natural wonders & other highlights.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

Once the home of popes–as evidenced by the incredible Papal Palace–Avignon is an incredibly relaxed and beautiful city that is the perfect jumping-off point to exploring Provence.

Don’t forget to check out the stunning Pont d’Avignon while you’re there!

Aix-en-Provence

Once the capital of Provence, Aix-en-Provence is known for its colorful streets, its many fountains, its great location as a base to visit other places in Provence, and–best of all–its outdoor markets.

Plan your visit for a Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday for the biggest concentration of markets!

Saint-Tropez

Glitzy and glamorous to the core, Saint-Tropez is the ultimate French escape if you’re looking for a luxurious stay along the Cote d’Azur.

Once a medieval fishing village and later a port, Saint-Tropez is better known today for its beautiful beaches and the magnificent yachts that come to visit.

The adorable fishing village of Cassis looks more like it belongs in an impressionist painting than as a busy tourist destination less than an hour from Marseille–and we were completely charmed by this small town!

Cassis is also an excellent place to use as a base to explore Calanques National Park.

Located along the Rhône River, Arles is best known for its history as part of the Roman Empire and for inspiring many of the paintings of Van Gogh, who lived in Arles for a year. It’s also a great jumping-off point to visit the Camargue !

Possibly the best-known village of the Luberon Valley, Gordes is built directly into the hilltop it rests on, giving a whole new twist to the concept of a hilltop village!

Of course, Monaco is not part of France–but how could any post about places to visit in the south of France leave off Nice’s famous neighbor, the glamorous microstate of Monaco?

Whether you want to doll up and try your hand at cards at the Monte Carlo or simply stroll the streets and admire the many impressive yachts, Monaco is certainly worth a quick visit.

Les Baux-de-Provence

Considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, Les Baux-de-Provence is as small as it is delightful.

Located in the Alpilles, come here both for the winding, narrow stone streets and the countryside views alike.

If you know one thing about Cannes, it’s likely that the city is home to the famous Cannes Film Festival.

Cannes goes well beyond its glamorous reputation in the film industry, though. Its beautiful beaches, gorgeous promenade, and the plethora of nearby day trips are all excellent reasons to visit Cannes.

As the biggest city on the French Riviera one of the most iconic beach cities in Europe , glamorous Nice is home to gorgeous markets, an incredible (and incredibly famous!) stretch of curving beach, tasty Nicoise salad, and an excellent location to use as a base for many of the incredible day trips in southern France.

Plenty of trips to the French Riviera start in Nice due to its large airport–but don’t just use Nice as a stopover.

I t’s lovely enough to deserve at least a little attention on your trip to the south of France!

Fontaine-de-Vaucluse

Located right on the Sorgue River, the Fontaine-de-Vaucluse is best known for being home to the gigantic spring that feeds the river–a spring whose source you can visit while in town.

Even apart from the spring itself, though, Fontaine-de-Vaucluse has a storybook-like air to it: its location on the river combined with the typical Provencal charm of the town makes it an unforgettable village to visit in southern France.

Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Perched high above the Cote d’Azur, Saint-Paul-de-Vence feels like exactly what it is: an artist colony, plus a typical French hilltop town, plus a glamorous destination along France’s best-known coast.

Stand on the medieval walls that surround the town, and you can see all the way out to the Mediterranean Sea–but wander down a narrow cobblestone street inside the town, and you’ll feel like you’re back in Provence.

Also–don’t miss the corgi that hangs out at the cafe just outside the town walls! He alone is enough of a reason to add Saint-Paul-de-Vence to your list of places to visit in the south of France.

Perched on top of a hill overlooking the Luberon Valley, Bonnieux is all charming cobblestone streets and adorable houses–plus the gorgeous Vieille Eglise (“Old Church”) located at the highest point in town.

After exploring the area around the church, be sure to take plenty of time to admire the view over the valley–look closely, and you’ll be able to pick out villages like popular Gordes in the distance.

This incredibly bright and colorful French Riviera town reminds me of Italian getaways like Cinque Terre at first blush–and considering Menton is located near the border of Italy, that’s not surprising!

Come here in the summer for swimming, delicious food, and a lovely coastal escape–or in February for their incredible annual lemon festival!

Remarkably uncrowded and slightly more under-the-radar than villages like Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Gordes, Goult has all the charm you could ever dream of in a Provencal village: excellent countryside views, cobblestone streets framed with buildings that boast colorful shutters, a windmill at the top of town.

This is one of my personal favorite villages in the south of France–don’t miss it while in the Luberon Valley!

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

If I were to move to a village in Provence tomorrow, it would be this one: incredibly beautiful, packed to the brim with tasty restaurants and interesting boutiques, and home to everything from fascinating art history (Van Gogh lived here during his days in a sanitarium) to a whimsical carousel, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is enormously popular for good reason!

Calanques National Park

If you’re hoping to hike in France, look no further than Calanques National Park!

Located between Marseille, Cassis, and La Ciotat, the Calanques (or coves) that are the highlight of the park are full of sparkling Mediterranean waters and framed by bright, white cliffs–and the combination is absolutely stunning.

Verdon Gorge

A deep canyon framed by white cliffs with a turquoise river that rushes through it: the Verdon Gorge is so beautiful that it almost defies description.

Stop here in the summer to kayak, canoe, swim, or even go whitewater rafting–or simply to admire the views and take a lovely hike.

Sénanque Abbey

Located near the village of Gordes, the Sénanque Abbey is an unmissable place to visit in southern France for those exploring the Luberon Valley!

Though the abbey was founded in the 12th century and is still the home of monks today, these days it is best known for its gorgeous lavender fields.

Lake of Sainte-Croix

Though this brightly colored lake is man-made, it’s absolutely gorgeous, an excellent place for hiking or camping, and located right next to the Verdon Gorge, making it a fabulous addition to your list of places to visit in the south of France!

Valensole Plateau

The gigantic, far-as-the-eye-can-see, sprawling lavender fields of Provence may just be the most popular place to visit in the south of France… and the Valensole Plateau is where you can find the best of them–check out the first photo in this post for an example of what you can find!

If you’re coming to southern France to chase lavender, you should absolutely add the Valensole Plateau to your list of places to see in the south of France.

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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The Ultimate 7 to 10 Days in the South of France Itinerary

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Planning a south of France itinerary is one of the highlights of visiting this incredible country. France is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe and, although many visitors will stay in Paris, plenty head down to spend 7 to 10 days in the south of France to soak up the sun on the pristine beaches, visit the stunning mountain ranges or learn about French culture on a city break.

A south of France itinerary can be extremely diverse, taking you to all of the above, or allowing you to pick and mix as you please. Whichever stops you end up choosing, you’re sure to have a fantastic holiday surrounded by lush natural areas, historic locations or beautiful city centres.

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How Many Days in the South of France?

To explore the whole of the south of France, from the Atlantic coast of Bayonne to the Mediterranean principality of Monaco , you would need at least two weeks to freely explore each wonderful town and city en route without rushing. However, to enjoy the Mediterranean coastline and its neighbouring cities, towns and quaint villages, 10 days in the south of France is ideal.

Although, if you want to concentrate your stops in one area, such as Languedoc-Roussillon or Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, you can spend a very pleasant 7 days in the south of France, without spending too much time on the road. 

Part of the fun of a south of France road trip is seeing the sights from a car window and stopping when your interest is piqued by a looming château or spectacular view. So it can be a great idea to plan a few days of activities but leave yourselves a day or at least an afternoon here and there for travelling and taking in the scenery.

Equally, if you prefer not to drive and would rather take trains or buses, you can pack picnics for your journeys and enjoy the views; you may still be on the move rather than on your feet or a sun lounger, but it’s a great way to make the most of every moment of your holiday.

The itinerary for the south of France outlined below covers a range of highlights to be found in the area. However, if you’re keen to dig deeper into various regions, make sure to check out our Provence itinerary or our French Riviera itinerary if you’ve already decided where you want to go.

Getting To & Around the South of France

Driving tends to be the best mode of transport to get around the south of France, as you’re then free to move around according to your own schedule, and there are many free (or at least cheap) places to park to be found in most cities and towns across the country.

All of the airports and city centres will have rental car companies where you can find various vehicles for reasonable prices, although it’s advisable to book in advance to guarantee you get the car of your choice.

The French have an expression that roughly translates to “there may not be work, but there are always roadworks”, so if you’re planning a south of France road trip itinerary outside of the summer months, it’s useful to have Google Maps open to have live traffic information for your journey so you can take alternative routes where necessary.

However, from June to September, as both French and foreign tourists travel around the country, there tend to be very few problems on the road, and you can almost guarantee excellent road surfaces to make your car journeys significantly more comfortable.

What’s more, the south of France has an excellent reputation for hitchhiking, so if you’re feeling adventurous and have a loose schedule for your trip to the south of France, this can be a great way of travelling around and getting some insider information about the hidden gems. Just make sure to follow safety precautions.

Getting to the south of France in the first place is also very simple as there are many airports located all along the south.

There are major airports in Toulouse, Montpellier, Marseille and Nice, so you can start your journey easily from any of these cities, although you can also arrive from the UK and other neighbouring European countries in the smaller cities of Carcassonne, Nîmes, Avignon, Aix-en-Provence and Toulon. You can book airport pickups here.

Each of these cities also has excellent public transportation, so you can visit much of the south of France by train. However, if you’d like to spend time in more rural villages and historic sites, there may not be trains and only a few buses each day, so having your own car is definitely advisable.

Most of the stops on our southern France itinerary will be well-known towns and cities that can easily be accessed by train or bus, but there are a couple of more out-of-the-way destinations that will be harder to reach without a car. So try to choose the best stops for your own south of France itinerary accordingly. You can view train and bus schedules here.

7 to 10 Day South of France Itinerary

From cities and towns to lakes and villages, our southern France itinerary will show you the best that France has to offer, without spending too long on the road so you can make the most of the bright sunshine, bustling streets and beautiful landscape.

Day 1 – Toulouse

Toulouse is a great place to start your 7 days in the south of France, as the airport has excellent connections to major European cities like London , Paris , Amsterdam and Munich , without being so busy that you spend your whole first day waiting at border control.

You can rent a car from the airport to start your road trip, or take the tram into the city for just a few euros and arrive in the centre ready to explore.

The centre of Toulouse has a wonderful large square lined on one side by the beautiful pink and white building Le Capitole that houses the town hall and the theatre of Toulouse.

This square is a great welcome into the city, leading off into winding streets full of boutiques and restaurants showing off the famous red brick of the region and the amazing cuisine.

You can wander around the city and discover the other incredible red brick structures like the Saint-Sernin Basilica and the Jacobins Convent with its enormous stained glass windows and occasional evening light show on the exterior façade. You can also  organise a walking tour  or  a food tour  if you want to learn more about the area from a guide.

The Canal du Midi also flows through Toulouse, as does the River Garonne, which provides a lovely place for an afternoon stroll, admiring the Occitan architecture, sunbathing on the steps leading to the river and sipping a cocktail on one of the floating bars. Plus, if you look closely under the Pont Neuf, you can spot one of James Colomina’s curious little red statues…

As a city, you can find plenty of places to stay within Toulouse from budget hotels and B&Bs to luxury apartments. Or, for a more rural gîte, you can head slightly further out of the city to enjoy nature, which is particularly beautiful around the Tarn and Garonne Rivers.

Where to Stay in Toulouse

Hôtel Héliot – Mid-range visitors to Toulouse will love this cool, 3-star hotel. Located in the centre of the city, they have a range of lovely rooms along with a great breakfast on offer in the morning. Click here to check availability

Boutique Hotel SOCLO – This boutique hotel is an excellent option for those after a luxury stay in Toulouse. They have a range of plush rooms to choose from along with an excellent location for exploring all the city has to offer. Click here to check availability

Appartements Design Hypercentre – If you’d prefer to have your own flat while in the South of France, then these apartments in Toulouse are a great choice. They come fully furnished and have a great, central location. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Toulouse hotels!

Day 2 – Carcassonne

Moving further south from Toulouse, you come across the amazing walled city of Carcassonne – the perfect place for a day trip. You can visit independently or go on an organised trip such as this full-day tour or this full-day tour.

Having been occupied since 500 BCE, this land was transformed by the Romans into a walled city which was further enhanced in the 12th century to create the incredible 3 km of ramparts we see today.

You can see the 52 towers rising in the distance as you approach by car, train or plane and the inside of the city takes you back in time with its traditional French shops selling everything from sweets to swords.

In the summer, the city comes to life with jousting tournaments, battle reenactments, opportunities to learn how to write with a quill and ink and people dressed in traditional mediaeval clothing wandering around the city. It’s a great place to visit with the family, but equally interesting for anyone with an interest in history, architecture or French culture.

The highlight of Carcassonne is the mediaeval city, however, there is a more modern town on the other side of the river which has hotels, restaurants and some apartments to rent, so if you haven’t brought your campervan, this is an excellent place to stay.

Day 3 – Montpellier

Moving further south still, we get to the real entrance of the south of France: Montpellier . Located on the Mediterranean coast, the amazing city has everything, from Roman ruins and neoclassical architecture to beaches, parks and exquisite gastronomy.

Visitors can happily stroll around the streets of the city centre, coming across the main square La Comedie, named after the huge theatre on one end, where the locals gather for entertainment, or simply to pass through on their way to work.

A short walk will take you to the magnificent 17th-century Triumphal Arch and stunning 18th-century tiered aqueduct that’s still working to supply the city’s fountains with water.

If that’s not enough to entice you, Montpellier has a fantastic botanical garden, which is the oldest in France, as well as plenty of murals and trompe d’œils dotted around the city streets, making for a wonderful walking tour. You can also easily take the tram around the city if you don’t feel like walking too far, as well as to the enormous beach with wild flamingos nearby.

Montpellier is a large city and has a very popular university so you can find activities for young people around every corner, as well as cheap hotels and apartments so everyone can have the chance to explore this amazing coastal city. Even if you can only stay for 7 days in the south of France, make sure you stop by Montpellier – you won’t be disappointed!

Where to Stay in Montpellier

Hôtel Royal – This 3-star hotel in the centre of Montpellier is a fantastic choice for those looking for a central place to stay in this French city. They have a range of chic rooms to choose from along with breakfast on offer each morning. Click here to check availability

Hôtel Oceania Le Métropole – This chic hotel is an excellent choice for those after a luxury option while staying in Montpellier. They have an excellent, central location along with an array of plush rooms plus many other amenities available. Click here to check their availability

Appart’City Confort Montpellier Saint Roch – If you’re keen for a self-catering option while exploring the south of France, then these apartments are a great choice. They have an array of fully-furnished flats all within easy access of all Montpellier has to offer. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Montpellier hotels!

Day 4 – Arles

Carcassonne and Montpellier were simply appetisers for history buffs, who can now rub their hands in glee at our next destination, the fabulous city of Arles . Arles is a perfectly sized town to wander around the streets and get a glimpse of the Provençal architecture and Roman ruins, namely the spectacular amphitheatre, Arènes d’Arles.

This 20,000 seater, two-tiered arena was built in 90 CE for gladiator fights and chariot races to entertain the locals and had towers added during the mediaeval era and looks unbelievably incredible today.

You can easily spend a few hours learning about the history of the structure or even watching a performance as it now hosts live music, bullfighting and other events in Summer, before heading off to experience the city’s other claim to fame: van Gogh’s house.

Having lived in the city for just a year, Vincent van Gogh created hundreds of artworks during his stay, having been greatly inspired by the natural beauty and pastel colours of the houses. Unfortunately, the house where he resided (and cut off his ear) was destroyed during the Second World War, however, you can visit a museum dedicated to the artist nearby.

Don’t miss out on the amazing and spooky Alyscamps either, with its incredible Gothic sarcophagi on either side of the ancient road leading down to a 12th-century church.

There aren’t lots of hotels within Arles city centre, however, with the Rhône River flowing through the landscape, there are some wonderful campsites and gîtes surrounded by countryside just five minutes driving out of the city. It is also very feasible to continue onto Marseille for the next few nights.

Where to Stay in Marseille

Hôtel Life Marseille VP – Mid-range visitors to Marseille will love this cool 3-star hotel in the centre of the city. They have an array of wonderful rooms to choose from, a fantastic location and plenty of other perks to ensure you have an excellent stay. Click here to check availability

La Residence Du Vieux Port – This luxury hotel in the Old Port area of Marseille is perfect for those looking for a chic and romantic place to stay in this French city. There are plentiful rooms to choose from along with an excellent location for seeing the city. Located in the Old Port area of Marseille, those looking for luxury will love this opulent boutique hotel. Click here to check availability

Vertigo Vieux-Port – Those looking for a budget option or if you’re after a great social atmosphere will love this highly-rated hostel in the Old Port area of Marseille. They have great common areas and self-catering facilities along with both dorms and private rooms available. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Marseille hotels!

Day 5 – Marseille

There’s not much to be said about the oldest and third-largest city in France that hasn’t already been said, and all of the great things you’ve heard about Marseille are true. Founded by the Greeks over 2600 years ago, the port city has seen a great deal of migration from all across the world making it a spectacularly diverse melting pot of architecture, cuisine, culture and religion.

The Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde is a must-see place within the city, and fortunately, you can see it from all around Marseille as it towers high above the otherwise quite flat city.

On the opposite side of Marseille, close to the train station is the equally spectacular but less well-known black and white striped Cathedrale La Major, which looks particularly magnificent at sunrise when the daylight causes the domed roof to glow orange.

A short distance away is the famous fish market and port of Marseille where you can see the fishermen selling their catches, as they’ve done for centuries, and take amazing photographs with the beautiful boats in the fore and the basilica in the background.

It’s possible to spend a few days in Marseille and not get the chance to see everything, so it’s a great destination for a weekend break, but even if you’ve got 10 days in the area, you’ve got to spare one for Marseille – even if it’s just to eat seafood (or take a food tour ) and enjoy the views.

Similar to other cities in France, you can find many hotels across the city for all kinds of budgets, as well as smaller B&Bs in the suburbs.

But there’s great transportation in the city, so rather than driving in, it’s a good idea to leave your car parked by your accommodation and just take a bus in and out of the city when you need to. 

Day 6 – Gorges du Verdon

So far each destination has been easily reachable by public transport, however, it’s more difficult to reach our next stop if you’re seeing the south of France by train. But, the Gorges du Verdon is one of the most breathtaking locations in the whole of France, so if possible, you have to include it on your southern France itinerary.

This 25 km long canyon has been cut out of limestone by the brilliant turquoise Verdon River that reaches down 700 metres at its deepest and is a popular place to take a pedalo or kayak, or go hiking and even rock climbing.

You can travel through the gorge into the Sainte-Croix Lake which was created in the 1970s by flooding the small village of Les Salles-sur-Verdon, later rebuilt on the banks of the lake. You can stop here for lunch in any number of delightful restaurants with mesmerising lakeside views, or bring a picnic with you to enjoy a full day out exploring the canyon and surrounding lakes.

There are several hotels in the village of Les Salles-sur-Verdon and near the small village of Boulogne, on the south side of the gorges, and you can find plenty of campsites surrounding the Sainte-Croix Lake, some with cabins that you can rent if you haven’t got your own tent.

But be wary that the Gorges du Verdon is a very popular place to stay in Summer, so you’ll need to book your accommodation well in advance. Alternatively, continue onto Cannes for the evening, where you can be based for the next few days of this itinerary. There are also a number of other places to stay on the French Riviera that are great choices.

For those who don’t want to make the drive out to the gorge, there are other great options available for this day. You could, for instance, spend another day exploring Marseille. You could also opt to take a day trip to the lavender fields and take in a hilltop village in Provence.

Another great option would be to visit the Calanques du Marseille and the village of Cassis for a gorgeous area very close to the city.

Where to Stay in Cannes

Villa Claudia Hotel Cannes – If you’re on a mid-range budget while in Cannes, then this hotel is a good choice. It has a good location for exploring the city, breakfast is available in the mornings and there is a great garden to enjoy. Click here to check availability

Hotel Splendid – This hotel is a fantastic luxury option for those looking to live the high life while on the French Riviera. They have a myriad of incredible rooms to choose from along with a great location for exploring the city and area. Click here to check availability

La Bastide de l’Oliveraie – Those after a bit of an alternative accommodation option will love these plush suites in Cannes. They have an excellent, central location and there are plenty of rooms and suites available to choose from. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Cannes hotels!

Day 7 – Saint-Raphaël

Back down to the Mediterranean coast, between the picturesque but incredibly busy town of St Tropez and the large and equally popular city of Cannes , is the small yet delightful town of Saint-Raphaël.

With a small harbour, a huge cathedral and beautiful beaches, this lovely little town is a great place to spend a relaxing final day of a south of France itinerary if you’re on a week-long holiday.

The charming town is a wonderful place to wander around, perusing the little shops and soaking up the sun, but during the Summer, the town really comes to life after 7.30 pm with its famous night market! This is much different than market day in other Provençal towns.

Stalls line the boardwalk all evening, selling local products from traditional Provençal soaps and perfumes to sweet treats and jewellery, so after you’ve had your traditional fish soup, anchovy paste, stuffed peppers or Bouillabaisse, you can’t miss out on a wander around the market to bring your 7 days in the south of France to a close.

If you’ve got time, you’ve also got to check out the superb amphitheatre of Fréjus, just a ten-minute drive from Saint-Raphaël centre.

Saint-Raphaël doesn’t have its own airport, however, it’s just a 45-minute drive from Cannes Airport, or 1 hour along the coastal road so you can say your farewells to the Côte d’Azur as you head home.

If you’re staying on, you can find many different hotels and apartments to stay in for the night all along the coast, although as we head into the more glamorous coastline, you’ll notice the prices can jump up quite a bit from other properties on our itinerary.

Day 8 – Valbonne

For your eighth day in the south of France, it’s time to head away from the coastal towns and cities to experience life in a small village, and there’s none better than Valbonne.

Just north of Cannes and Antibes, you can easily reach Valbonne by car from Saint-Raphaël, or if you’re travelling on public transport you can take a bus from Cannes to Valbonne for just a few euros.

This little village may lack big landmarks and resorts, but it’s bursting with character, with charming cobbled streets leading you around the village, from quaint squares to historic churches.

This style of architecture and tiny community nestled into a valley surrounded by wilderness is archetypal of the area, so a must-visit place for anyone looking to get away from the busy cities and tourist-filled beaches to get a glimpse into the real south of France.

There are a number of wonderful places to eat, including Auberges, serving traditional dishes using produce sourced directly from the surrounding countryside to heighten your experience of rural French life. You can stay in the village, but there are only two hotels, so you’ll want to book well in advance if you want to stay overnight.

However, the large city of Cannes is not far away so there will be much more choice of hotels, as well as gîtes and B&Bs dotted around the countryside if you prefer to stay in a more rural location.

Day 9 – Nice

After a day in the countryside, it’s time to get back into the city, and one of the French Riviera’s most unmissable cities has to be Nice .

With its bustling city centre full of designer shops, boutiques, restaurants, bars and nightclubs, you won’t be short of things to do as you walk from street to street, under the intriguing street lamps. But Nice isn’t your average city.

As you head out of the modern centre, you can come across the delightful old town, with more traditional boutiques and eateries, and you can even visit one of the first Russian Orthodox Cathedrals built in France, the beautiful Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice.

With its intriguing shape, red brick exterior, turquoise domed roofs and pointed turrets, it may be small but it’s well worth visiting while you’re in Nice – just remember to wear long sleeves and trousers to be allowed entry.

You can also walk up the Colline du Château to see the ruins of an old castle and a beautiful waterfall as well as have incredible views over the whole of Nice.

There’s plenty to do in the city for all ages and interests, as well as accommodation for all budgets in the city centre and further out in the suburbs. You can also  organise a walking tour  or  food tour  if you prefer to explore with a guide.

Where to Stay in Nice

Nice Garden Hotel – This is a great mid-range hotel in Nice to round out your south of France trip. They have a number of lovely rooms to choose from along with a great location within easy reach of the Promenade des Anglais. Click here to check availability

Palais Saleya Boutique hôtel – If you’re looking for a luxury hotel while in Nice, then you can’t go wrong with this lovely place. They have a number of delightful rooms to choose from along with plenty of amenities to ensure you have a great stay. Click here to check availability

Aparthotel AMMI Vieux Nice – Located in Old Nice, these apartments are a wonderful choice for those keen for their own space in this coastal metropolis. They have a number of great flats, all equipped with everything you may need for your stay. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Nice hotels!

Day 10 – Èze

Nice Airport is the best place to fly out of the south of France if you’ve come along the south coast from west to east, and fortunately, it’s not far from the wonderful village of Èze, which makes for a remarkably relaxing final day of your holiday.

Simply wander around the picturesque village with cobbled streets and stone houses, stunning views over the Mediterranean and the nearby millionaire’s playground that is Monaco.

Or, take a free tour of the renowned Fragonard perfume factory before heading to a cliffside restaurant to enjoy your final plat du jour and a crisp local vin blanc before heading home.

Have More Time?

If you have more than 10 days , there are plenty of other highlights to stop in en route.

Stop in one of the only papal seats outside the Vatican in Avignon to explore the Pope’s Palace, the famous destroyed bridge Le Pont d’Avignon and the nearby Pont du Gard for a day before visiting Arles, or continue your journey along the French Riviera to the flash principality of Monaco to see how the other half live or try your luck in the famous casino.

Or if Roman history piques your interest, stop by the incredible city of Nîmes near Arles to see a 2,000-year-old Roman amphitheatre that gives Arles a run for its money, as well as its perfectly preserved white Roman temple La Maison Carrée.

En route from Carcassonne to Montpellier, you can also stop for a day of hiking and art in the community of Mayronnes to walk along the impressive 6 km long sculpture trail – but bring plenty of water with you as it can get very hot, especially in the height of summer.

Whether you take a south of France road trip or see the south of France by train, there is plenty to do across the whole region for all interests. Over a week or 10 days in the south, you’ll get to experience some amazing food, architecture and natural areas that will surely have you aching to get back as soon as your feet are off French soil.

Are you visiting the south of France? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Brittany is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Colchester, England, she is slowly but surely travelling the world as a digital nomad. She loves to hike around different landscapes and has a deep love for travelling around France (and elsewhere in Europe).

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10 Most Amazing Destinations in the South of France

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on June 14, 2024

Few places in Europe offer a more memorable travel experience than the glitzy, glamorous and stunningly gorgeous south of France. From the warmth of its sun-kissed beaches to the aroma of its mouth-watering cuisine, a holiday in this sunny region is a treat for all the senses. Take in the scenery that inspired artists from Renoir and Van Gogh to Matisse and Cézanne.

Listen to a concert at an ancient Roman amphitheater. Dine sumptuously at a Michelin-starred restaurant. A great transportation system makes it easy to access every seaside resort, medieval fortress and world-class museum. Wherever you travel, the sights, sounds and sensations you encounter in southern France will stay with you long after your trip is over.

10. Aix-en-Provence

Tree-lined streets, monuments and elegant architecture greet you wherever you wander in Aix-en-Provence. Founded by a Roman general in 123 B.C., Aix-en-Provence came of age during the Renaissance Era when artists, academics and aristocrats made the cultural capital their home. With around 40,000 students swelling its population each year, Aix remains a highly regarded university city.

The city’s ultimate claim to fame, however, is its native son Paul Cézanne. The impressionist’s workspaces and the pastoral landscapes that inspired him are some of the region’s star attractions. With its mix of Romanesque and Gothic elements, the ornate Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur is a must-see too.

You don’t have to visit Cannes during its annual film festival to understand the appeal of this coastal city. With its long stretches of sandy beaches and 300 days of sunshine each year, Cannes attracts sun worshippers in the warm seasons. Start your visit with a stroll along the Boulevard de la Croisette. Curving around the city’s deep-blue bay, the promenade offers views of the sea and sand on one side and upscale hotels and boutiques on the other.

Set aside some time to explore Le Suquet, the historic quarter of Cannes. A number of bars and restaurants now line the winding, cobbled streets. Climb to the top of the hilly neighborhood for panoramic vistas of the Vieux Port.

8. Lourmarin

Surrounded by vineyards, orchards and forest, Lourmarin is one of the most scenic villages in the Provence. Less overrun with tourists than other towns in the region, it offers an authentic Provençal experience. Lourmarin’s pretty squares, winding streets and open-air cafés invite leisurely strolls through the city.

One of the most beautiful structures to explore is the Château de Lourmarin. Built as a fortress in the 12th century, it was transformed into an elegant Renaissance manor in the 15th and 16th centuries. Visitors can tour the lovingly restored rooms to view rare antiques and artwork. Nobel Prize-winning author Albert Camus, who lived in Lourmarin from 1957 until his death in 1960, is buried in the village cemetery.

7. Biarritz

Situated in the southwest corner of France along the Basque coast, Biarritz has been a popular holiday destination since Napoleon III and his wife Eugénie first visited in 1854. The emperor was responsible for the construction of the Hôtel du Palais, the town’s most famous landmark. Located across the street from the hotel is the Eglise Orthodoxe Russe.

Built in 1892, the Russian church is notable for its gilded dome. Down the road is the Place Sainte-Eugénie, an elegant old plaza that overlooks the Port des Pêcheurs, or fishermen’s port. Today, Biarritz is also known as the surfing capital of France. La Côte des Basques is considered the optimal beach for riding the waves.

Sprawled along the banks of the Rhône River in the south of France, Arles has been an important cultural center and trading port since Julius Caesar founded it as a Roman colony in 46 B.C. The city’s most striking example of those early days is the Roman Théâtre Antique, where plays, concerts and mock gladiator fights are performed during the summer.

Provençal-style bullfights, in which the bull is not killed, are held in the amphitheater too. Vincent Van Gogh created 300 works of art while living in Arles, and his Yellow House is a popular attraction. A walking map guides you to the places and scenery depicted in his famous paintings, including “Starry Nights Over the Rhône.”

5. Saint-Paul de Vence

The scenic beauty of Saint-Paul-de-Vence is reason enough to visit this hilltop village in southeastern France. With its thick ramparts, centuries-old structures and cobbled streets, it’s a poster child for a well-preserved medieval town.

Artists from Modigliani and Chagall to Picasso plied their craft in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, trading paintings for food, drink and board at the Auberge de la Colombe d’Or. Their creations still adorn the walls of the inn today. Art is the main attraction outside the inn too. The town’s winding streets are lined with galleries and museums. All paths lead up to the fortress tower and Gothic church at the top of the hill.

4. Carcassonne

One of France’s oldest fortified cities, Carcassonne is situated near the scenic Canal du Midi, with Montagne Noire rising up in the background. The storybook setting draws 4 million tourists each year, most of whom come to tour the Cité, the almost too-perfectly restored medieval citadel. Tours lead visitors past gargoyles, turrets and grassy lists to the inner rings of the fortress.

With its quirky museums and one-of-a-kind shops, the ville basse on the lower ground near the River Aude is fun to explore too. Finish the day by dining at one of the tasty eateries located along the canal’s towpath.

The city of Avignon is best known for the Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in Europe. Built in the 14th century as an act of rebellion against the election of Pope Clement V, the fortified structure covers the top of a hill overlooking the Rhône River. Inside the temporary seat of the Papacy are treasures like a series of frescoes painted by Matteo Giovanetti in the 1300s.

The palace plays host to art exhibitions, conventions and festivals as well. Outside, hilltop gardens, ponds and landscaped terraces invite exploration. Housing the only Van Gogh painting in Provence, the Musée Angladon is well worth a visit too.

From world-class art and medieval architecture to stunning beaches, Nice offers everything travelers want from a holiday on the French Riviera. This vibrant city in southeast France offers an array of pedestrian-friendly attractions too, including waterfront promenades, grand plazas and open-air markets .

Vieux Nice, the Italianate-style old town district, lets you explore the city’s past while sampling delicacies from pastries to pizzas at the neighborhood’s eateries. When it comes to culture, no holiday in Nice is complete without a visit to the Musée Marc Chagall and Musée Matisse where hundreds of works by the two French artists are on display.

Although Monaco is an independent city-state, its prime location on the French Riviera makes it an appealing destination for visitors to the south of France. A fabled playground for the rich and famous, Monaco is an appealing destination for budget-minded day trips too.

Tour the memorial rose garden dedicated to the memory of the Princess of Monaco and actress Grace Kelly. View the changing of the guard and tour “Les Grands Appartements” at the royal palace. Even if you don’t gamble at the famed Casino de Monte-Carlo, you can explore its gilded rooms any morning for a small fee.

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10 beautiful places to visit in the south of france.

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Best Places to Visit South of France

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Visit Southern France

There are so many unique places to visit in South France that you could spend weeks here and not see everything!

If possible, try to see as much as you can (you won’t regret it!), but if you have limited time, this article has all the best places to visit South of France.

This is not a definitive list of South of France destinations – we could easily include another 50 places! – but a good start to deciding where to go in South of France.

Beautiful Places to Visit in South France

Where to go South of France? Here’s the list of beautiful places to visit in South of France, best places to visit in Southern France for any kind of traveler.

1. French Riviera

If you can only visit one place in Southern France, it should be the French Riviera . The region is in southeast France, close to Italy, and truly has something for everyone. There are cities where you will get a truly French experience, smaller towns on the coast bathed by turquoise waters, and some hilltop villages begging to be explored.

Nice is the capital of the French Riviera and one of the best places to visit in the South of France because of its stunning baroque architecture and historic neighborhoods.

Cannes is glitzy and glamorous and is the perfect place to relax after exploring Nice. The town is most popular for its hotel resorts and beaches and hosts the world-famous Cannes Festival of Cinema.

TIP: This top-rated French Riviera in One Day tour from Nice always gets excellent reviews

Monaco is another of the best places to visit in the French Riviera , famous for its casinos and being home to the Grand Prix de Monaco.

Finally, don’t miss the French Riviera’s beaches, bathed by the Mediterranean Sea. The French Riviera beaches are ideal places to relax in the summer, but you can also enjoy them from the water on a catamaran tour.

2. Calanques of Marseille-Cassis

The Calanques of Marseille-Cassis is a French National Park on the Southern coast West of the French Riviera. There are beaches, hiking paths overlooking the water, and many different cliffs to climb, but you can also explore it from the water on a catamaran tour from Marseille .

If you are looking for some of the best scenery near Marseille , this National Park is the place for you! Whether you are exploring or just relaxing on the beach, you will see some of the prettiest views in all of France. The water is a vibrant blue, and it contrasts with the sandy beaches.

The Calanques of Marseille makes for one of the best day trips from Marseille , and it’s one of the best places to visit in Southern France if you want to spend time in nature.

3. Cité de Carcassonne

The Cité de Carcassonne is a citadel within the city of Carcassonne in the Occitanie region . The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located in the Southeast part of the city on a hill.

The Citadel was built by the Romans in the 3rd century when they settled in the town. Over time, the Citadel came under Visigoth, Crusaders, and French rule. It was used as a military fort until it was abandoned in the 17th century.

One of the Cathars’ main strongholds, who were considered heretics by the Catholic Church, Carcassonne is today one of the main stops of any Cathar Country road trip . This is also one of the best places in South of France for history lovers, but anyone and everyone will find it enjoyable as it is rated as one of the top landmarks in France .

During the visit, you can explore the Cité de Carcassonne alone or on a guided tour with an expert guide to learn about its history.

Avignon is one of the most beautiful cities in southern France . Today part of the Provence region in Southeastern France, the city sits on the Rhône River, and it was the capital of the papacy from 1309 to 1377.

Avignon is one of the best places to visit in South of France to explore for history lovers. Visit Avignon’s Medieval Town, the Palace of the Popes , Le Rocher des Doms and, the Pont d’Avignon .

TIP: This combo ticket Palace of the Popes + Pont d’Avignon saves you money!

If you can, visit this UNESCO city during the famous Festival d’Avignon . The theatre festival occurs every July, with the main events held in the Palais des Papes’ courtyard.

5. Lavender Fields of Provence

If you want to visit Southern France in the summer, there is nothing better than exploring the endless fields of lavender flowers in Provence. The smell of lavender is one of the best and most relaxing, and the flowers are all a vibrant purple.

The fields are a unique place to visit, and everyone will love them. Even if you are not into flowers, it is interesting to see where the lavender comes from since it is an important part of Provence. For this, combine the most photogenic lavender fields in Provence with a lavender workshop or a visit to a lavender museum – check out our suggested lavender route in Provence .

However, the lavender season in Provence is short – generally from the end of June to early August – so you must plan ahead and know where to go depending on the area and altitude of the lavender fields.

6. Gorges du Verdon

The Gorges du Verdon is a spectacular natural canyon with a river running through it. It is the largest canyon in Europe, and you will certainly notice its size as soon as you arrive.

There is plenty to do here, no matter what you are interested in. In the area, you’ll find hiking trails with views of the Gorges, the oh-so-pretty village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie , and many water activities and river beaches.

The Gorges du Verdon is in Southwest France, north of the French Riviera. It is an easy day trip from Aix-en-Provence or Nice, but if you have more time available, try this Gorges du Verdon road trip .

7. Hilltop Villages of the Luberon

Another great place to visit for a South of France vacation is the Luberon and its hilltop villages. The  Luberon  is a massif in central Provence, part of the French Prealps.

The towns here are beautiful as they sit on top of mountains and are surrounded by amazing landscapes. You can also see many vineyards and (in the right season) some lavender fields too.

The list of most popular hilltop villages in the Luberon includes Bonnieux, Lacoste, Lourmarin, Cucuron, Gordes, Castellet, Auribeau, and Roussillon. All these beautiful villages have winding streets, stone houses, and picturesque little squares.

If you want to spend some time exploring small French towns away from the coast, consider this Luberon road trip which starts from Avignon. If you don’t have a car, this guided tour from Avignon visits the best villages in the Luberon . No matter which of the towns you choose or how long you have to spend here, you will love it!

8. The Camargue

One of the most popular places to visit in South France is the Parc Naturel Régional de Camargue , which is a UNESCO biosphere reserve. Located between Arles and Montpellier, the region is mostly natural land, with one-third of the area being either lakes or marsh. There are also 400 species of birds, like pink flamingos, which you can see in the Ornithological Park of Pont de Gau.

The cities of Aigues-Mortes and Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer are two excellent places to explore the Camargue. If you want to visit Camargue on a day trip, consider this 4×4 Camargue Safari from Arles with an informative guide, which includes bird-watching, scenic views of the area, and free time in the famous village of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.

9. Canal du Midi

Stretching from Toulouse to Sète, the Canal du Midi is a feat of architectural genius that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. This 17th-century construction designed by Pierre-Paul Riquet required 12,000 men over fifteen years, from 1666 to 1681.

Today, the Canal du Midi is one of the best places to visit South of France. Here, visitors can hire boats, hotel-barges, or rent bikes and make their way along the Canal at their own pace.

If you are in Toulouse , you can explore a section of the Canal du Midi by bike . Some hikers use the trail along the Canal to make their way toward the Camino de Santiago in Spain.

10. Bonifacio

The last of the best places to visit in the South of France is Bonifacio and the surrounding areas, including Figari, Sotta, and Porto-Vecchio.

Bonifacio is on the southern tip of Corsica , one of the French islands in the Mediterranean Sea. When you visit, you should check out the Citadel overlooking the cliffs, the Old Town, and the area by the water and the port. If you have the time for a day trip, this boat tour from Bonifacio always gets the best reviews. Discover cliffs, sea caves, and beaches, and stop to snorkel with the provided gear.

If you are staying on the west coast of Corsica, you can take a full-day boat tour to Bonifacio from Ajaccio or Porticcio.

And there you have it, our list of the best places South of France for a memorable trip. Which Southern France destinations would you like to visit next?

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30+ Beautiful Places to Visit in the South of France!

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 4th June 2024

Categories France

Last Updated on 4th June 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

The South of France is a wonderful area of Europe characterised by its sandy stretches, glittering Mediterranean coastline, and countless colourful villages. Inhabited since antiquity, you can’t go wrong by exploring at least several French destinations on any venture through the area. Here are 30+ sun-soaked places in the south of France you simply must visit…

#1 Montpellier

#3 béziers, #5 narbonne, #6 biarritz, #7 marseille, #8 moustiers-sainte-marie, #12 nîmes, #13 carcassonne, #14 gorges du verdon, #15 aix-en-provence, #17 la ciotat, #18 antibes, #19 massif des calanques , #20 sète, #21 saint-paul-de-vence, #22 saint tropez, #24 saint-jean-pied-de-port, #25 èze, #26 lourmarin, #27 aigues-mortes, #28 martigues, #29 menton , #30 villeneuve-lès-avignon, #31 les baux de provence, #32 valensole lavender fields, #34 colorado provençal , enjoyed reading this post about the best places in the south of france pin it now, read it again later:, best places to visit in southern france.

Often referred to as the ‘Paris of the South,’ Montpellier is filled with Haussmannian architecture and plenty of historical museums and art exhibitions. As one of the largest cities in France, it’s also home to oodles of coffee shops, bars, and cafés.

Other highlights of the city include the impressive Gothic cathedral, Montpellier’s very own Arc de Triomphe in the form of Porte du Peyrou, and the breathtakingly beautiful Château de Flagergues in the outskirts of the city. For a greater look at this Southern French city, check out my  free and self-guided Montpellier walking tour .

Montpellier travel tip: The best time to visit Montpellier is in the late spring or early autumn. This way, you get the best weather for exploring (not too hot and not too much rain) and the crowds will be significantly less than in the high season (i.e. during the summer). For more inspiration, check out our suggestions for spending one day in Montpellier .

The Roman ruins of Arles are often said to be some of the best archaeological sites in the South of France, if not all of the country. Complete with a two-tiered amphitheatre which was first founded in 90 AD, the city has inspired countless writers and painters over the years, including world-famous painter, Van Gogh.

Arles’ position alongside the River Rhone also means that it’s easy to access the Camargue from here, a region of France which is synonymous with grassy open plains, pink flamingoes, and wild horses. Other day trips from the Southern French city include St-Rémy, Pont-du-Gard, Uzès and Les Baux.

Arles travel tip: Be sure to truly check out all of the Roman history on offer, even if you’re not typically a traveller who enjoys historical sites. The size and preservation of the amphitheatre in particular is truly breathtaking and not to be missed.

Home to the UNESCO world heritage site of Les Ecluses de Fonserannes, a series of nine stepped locks which link the Canal du Midi to other French waterways, Beziers is one of the oldest cities in France. In fact, it’s only a couple of decades younger than the Provençal city of Marseille.

Today, highlights of Beziers include wandering around the city’s many cobbled lanes, seeing the city’s fortified old town, and exploring a side of France which many tourists never get to experience. Otherwise, be sure to make the journey to the nearby locks and search for  the best view in Béziers.

Béziers travel tip: Don’t miss out on the locks of Béziers (known as Les 9 Écluses de Fonseranes) in French. They are of such engineering importance that they’re now listed as a UNESCO world heritage site and it’s truly impressive to follow a boat going down the series of locks and gates.

Birthplace of Henri Toulouse-Lautrec, Albi is the kind of city you see on a vintage postcard. And the kind of place that you might believe no longer exists. Yet Albi does exist, and it couldn’t be easier to visit, making it the perfect place for a weekend escape.

Located in Occitanie , this city was founded thousands of years ago and is now home to a population hovering around seventy thousand inhabitants. Highlights of Albi include the Gothic 13th-century Albi Cathedral and the formal French gardens of Musée de la Berbie.

Albi travel tip: The stunning city of Albi should definitely not be missed on any trip to Southern France and the one must-see attraction that should be visited above all others is Albi Cathedral. The ecclesiastical building is constructed from brick and is also fortified, making it a particularly interesting French cathedral.

Once a Roman port city, silt and sand have built up to such an extent over the years that the pretty town of Narbonne now lies some 15 kilometres or so from the sea. Today, instead of a sandy beach, you’ll find plenty of cobbled lanes, museums, and the birthplace of iconic French singer Charles Trenet (who is best-known for singing the hit song ‘la mer’) should you opt to visit this pretty southern French town.

Other reasons to visit Narbonne include the fantastic Roman ruins to be explored in the city, as well as Les Halles , which is easily one of the best covered markets in France. If you still want to experience some sea, sun, and sand, then simply take a day trip from Narbonne via bus to Narbonne-Sur-Plage.

Narbonne travel tip: The best way to explore this highly underrated destination in the South of West is on foot. Set aside at least a couple of hours during your stay in the city to simply stroll around and allow your feet to take you where they may…

For some sun-soaked sea adventures, then you simply must head to Biarritz , a seaside town on France’s Basque coastline. Located in the Pyrenées-Atlantiques, Biarritz is best-known for its historic lighthouse and great surf.

In fact, it’s often referred to as the ‘Capital of Surf’ for all of France. The town’s beaches are sandy and cloud coverage is minimal throughout the spring, summer, and autumn, making it an ideal destination for sun-seekers.

Biarritz travel tip: Though Biarritz town itself is fairly small and can easily be explored over the course of a few hours, you’ll want to dedicate at least a long weekend to exploring all that the surrounds of Biarritz has to offer.

One of the oldest cities in France can be found in the form of Marseille, a city founded as early as 600 BC in antiquity. First known to the Ancient Greeks as  Μασσαλία ( Massalía) , today Marseille is the second-largest city in France after Paris and is well-known for its seafood scene.

The historic fishing town still functions as a working port and highlights of the South of France destination include Notre Dame de la Garde basilica, as well as the city’s ultra-modern Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations. While in town, be sure to sample the Navette de Marseille , a local delicacy.

Marseille travel tip: Hands down, the most attractive district of Marseille is the Le Panier district. Characterised by its steep steps, pastel-hued homes, and family-run eateries, you could easily get lost for a good couple of hours discovering all that Le Panier has to offer. For even more inspiration, be sure to check out our guide to spending one day in Marseille .

Located in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department and close to the Western entryway to the Gorges du Verdon , Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, which is often referred to as simply ‘Moustiers,’ is easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in the South of France.

Highlights of this vibrant town include the Romanesque and Gothic 12th-century Church of Notre-Dame de l’Assomption, as well as the tiny chapel of Chapel Notre-Dame-de-Beauvoir. It’s also worth noting that Moustiers is particularly famous for its glazed faïence pottery, which has been produced in the Provence settlement for centuries.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie travel tip: If you’re looking for a particularly unique souvenir to purchase during your time in the South of France, then I highly recommend picking up a piece of two of the faïence pottery of Moustiers Sainte Marie . The beautiful ceramics also make for great present/ birthday gifts.

Made famous in the South of France by the children’s nursery rhyme ‘Sur le Pont d’Avignon’, this city in the South of France is characterised by its imposing Gothic ‘Palais des Papes,’ as well as the remains of the 12th-century bridge, Pont Saint-Benezet, which inspired the famous French nursery rhyme ‘Sur le Pont d’Avignon’. Avignon is also home to a surprising number of beautiful hidden gems.

The city’s iconic bridge is named for a 12-year-old shepherd boy who lived during the middle ages. One day, Benezet allegedly heard a divine voice instructing him to venture to Avignon so that he could build a bridge.

The story goes that this is exactly what he did and so (most of) the bridge still stands to this day! For more South of France inspiration, check out this guide on  how to spend 5 perfect days in Provence.

Avignon travel tip: The name ‘ Avignon ‘ comes from the original Latin name of ‘Avenio’ which refers to the strong winds that the city experiences. This is even the case in the summer and so be sure to wrap up warm in plenty of layers when visiting this Southerly French city.

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Southern France is that of Toulon, which is to be found somewhere along the coastline between La Ciotat and Hyères and is home to a population of around 167,000 residents.

A vibrant city situated alongside the coast, some of the best things to do in Toulon include hiking up the nearby Mont Faron, relaxing on sandy beaches, and learning about maritime history in the grand Musée National de la Marine.

Toulon travel tip: Despite not being near the top of travellers lists when it comes to visiting the South of France, Toulon still merits a second look thanks to the fact that it boasts one of France’s most attractive harbours.

The word ‘cassis’ in French is not only the name for ‘blackcurrant’ in the language, but also the name for a pretty port town that lies right beside the seaside. A must-see on any trip to Provence, highlights of Cassis include candy-coloured houses, a Carolingian hotel , and easy access to the now designated heritage site, Calanques de Cassis.

If you want a taste of the ‘real’ France then simply pick up an ice cream in a local flavour (lavender is a must-try!) and wander around the town. Just don’t forget your camera, almost every corner is picture perfect! For more town highlights, here are the very best  things to do in Cassis.

Cassis travel tip: Pack your hiking shoes/ boots if you’re headed to Cassis. The town lies on the fringes of the Calanques de Marseille, an incredible national park that is home to secret coves, hiking trails, and some of the most unique scenery in all of France.

Yet another former Roman town which is a delightful visit in Southern France is that of Nîmes. Characterised by its sun-soaked façades and well-preserved Roman amphitheatre which is still in use to this day, you can’t go wrong by dedicating a long weekend to exploring the city.

Other highlights of Nimes include taking a day trip to the nearby Pont du Gard, an iconic Roman aqueduct that was constructed in the 1st century CE and is formed of three tiers, and seeing the Maison Carrée, a Roman temple in the heart of the city.

Nîmes top tip: Nîmes is so rich in history that it’s often nicknamed the ‘most Roman city outside Italy’. To discover more about the history of this ancient French settlement, be sure to book a guided walking tour like this one.

Fortified walls and a whole host of impressive structures come together to form a hilltop town that’s iconic the world over. Carcassonne was first founded as a fortified settlement in Gallo-Roman times and then further additions to the town’s defences were added during the Middle Ages.

Although the medieval fortress lay in pretty bad shape by the 19th-century (money constraints, the lack of a needy for defences etc. all contributed to the crumbling of the walls), the fortifications were heavily restored by architect Viollet-le-Duc (remember him from Mont Saint Michel? ) .

Today, Carcassonne is probably one of the most visited spots in the Occitanie region. Although there are certainly less touristic spots to visit when it comes to the South of France, Carcassonne remains worth a visit, if only to say you’ve visited this Southern French city!

Carcassonne top tip: If you want to walk along the historic Carcassonne ramparts, then the best time to visit is early in the day before the city gets pretty busy (this is one of the most popular places to visit in the south of France).

If you’re looking for a natural phenomenon to visit in the South of France region, then you should head to the Gorges du Verdon, which is a river canyon in Southeastern France. Home to cliffs and white river rapids, the area is popular among water sports enthusiasts, with many companies offer water-based activities in the area.

Gorges du Verdon top tip: If you want to experience going out on the water, then you can actually rent a boat (no boating licence required). We searched local rentals in the area and were able to rent one for half a day.

Warm stone, a hundred cobbled lanes, and plenty of fountains are the trademark of Aix-en-Provence, a fairly substantial city which lies to the base of Montagne Sainte Victoire. Once home to artist and impressionist Paul Cézanne, today you can follow in the footsteps of this famous Frenchman and even take your picture with a life-sized statue of Cezanne in front of the tourist office!

If you’re also looking for a little nightlife when it comes to your next destination, then I highly recommend considering Aix as it’s full of cafés, bars, bistros, and clubs thanks to its abundance of students!

What’s more is that Aix is home to plenty of secret spots . For a longer stint in Provence, Aix-en-Provence also makes a great base. After all, here are the 10 best day trips from Aix-en-Provence.

For a little glitz and glamour, you need to look no further than Cannes , a stunning resort town along the glittering French Riviera. Even if you’re ‘not really a beach person,’ then you may well have heard of this Southern French destination thanks to its annual film festival, ‘Festival de Cannes.’ And so, if you’re a movie buff, then you simply must head to this French destination!

Little and located by the sea, the charm of La Ciotat lies in its authentic French ambiance and well-preserved old town. Though there is little by way of attractions when it comes to this Provençal town (several seafood restaurants and a man-made beach), La Ciotat’s main claim to fame is that it is believed to be the birthplace of Petanque, a ball game similar to that of Boules.

Best seen just before or just after peak season so as to enjoy the city sans the crowds but with the best possible weather, Antibes is situated between the famous resort towns of Cannes and Nice. Home to a particularly impressive Museum dedicated to Picasso, 16th-century star-shaped fort, Fort Carré, is a must-see while in the city.

Stretching a 20 km length of coastline between Cassis and Marseille, the Massif des Calanques is a unique National Park in the world in that this terrain is formed of rugged limestone which has been worn away by the sea, time, and salty breeze.

Small inlets and impressively high peaks make this park a must-walk for lovers of hiking. Should you choose to plan a visit, make sure to avoid the summer months as the park is often closed due to the risk of a forest fire! Want to go and see the National Park for yourself? Here are tips for  hiking the Calanques de Cassis.

A fishing city which still functions as a working port to this day, Sete is located between the historic cities of Beziers and Montpellier. Easy to visit as a day trip from Beziers, the area is well known for its sea-inspired dishes, notably ‘moules’ (mussels)!

Of all the beautiful towns and villages in the South of France, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is probably the most picturesque of them all. Characterised by its meandering walkways, floral displays, and cobbled lanes, wandering through this Southern French town feels akin to stepping back into a vintage postcard!

Other highlights of St Paul de Vence include the Fondation Maeght art museum and the breathtakingly beautiful 14th-century collegiate church. Easy to reach as a day trip from Nice , this quaint settlement is a must-see when in the Alpes-Maritimes area of France.

For a seaside resort with a luxurious feel and countless hours of sunlight throughout the year, you need to look no further than Saint Tropez.

Situated along the world-famous French Riviera, some of the best things to do in this South of France city include visiting the Citadel, sampling the local cuisine, and embarking on coastal walks to explore the local region.

Nice is nice, or so they say… Bad puns aside, Nice is a stunning city along the glittering French Riviera. Best-known for its long boulevard along the sea named ‘ Promenade des Anglais ‘, the city became a place for the rich and wealthy when celebrities started flocking to the beach resort town during the 19th-century.

Ever since that time, Nice has featured in countless paintings, movies, and is well worth a visit if you’re looking for a European getaway from it all. After all, look beyond must-sees like the old town and you’ll soon discover that Nice has plenty of hidden gems as well as an excellent foodie scene (be sure to try the best socca in Nice while in the Southern French city).

If you’ve ever thought about hiking the famous Camino de Santiago in Northern Spain , then you’ll know that the traditional starting point for the Spanish portion of the pilgrimage is actually Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in Southern France.

Incredibly busy and close to the border with Spain, the town is characterised by its pretty river vista views and many albergues, which host pilgrims throughout the year.

The hilltop medieval crown jewel of the French Riviera, the town of Èze dates back centuries and wandering around its cobbled lanes and stepped pedestrian streets truly feels akin to stepping back in time.

Similar in appearance to the nearby Saint-Paul-de-Vence, wander around Èze and you can expect to find a botanical garden, little hidden chapel, main parish church, and too many boutiques to count on two hands.

Time and time again, Lourmarin is listed as not only one of the best places to visit in the South of France, but also as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Situated East of Avignon and in the Luberon, the medieval village is picture perfectly stunning, and is surrounded by almond and olive trees!

With a red sea that gets its appearance from the region’s rich salt deposits, Aigues-Mortes was founded by Louis IX in the 13th-century for the purpose of expanding France’s trade routes. Today, the walled city is breathtaking to look at and is filled with tiny coffee houses, narrow cobbled streets (many of which are pedestrian-only) and lots of shopping opportunities.

Situated to the North West of Marseille, Martigues has a population of around 50,000 and was founded in the 13th-century by Ramon Berenguer IV, Count of Provence, on the site of what was once likely a Roman settlement. Today, visit the town and you can expect to find the ‘Provençal Venice’ on account of the town’s picturesque port and many winding canals.

The last major town before the Franco-Italian border along the French Riviera, Menton is a picture-perfect town that’s characterised by a glittering harbour and pastel-hued old town. This is the last large town before the border with Italy and each time a lemon festival is held in the town .

Highlights of the town include a centuries-old Cathedral, meandering pedestrian-only old town, and a cemetery that’s perched on the ruins of the old town castle, high above the Mediterranean sea below.

Just across the water from the world-famous Avignon and its semi-washed-away bridge, Villeneuve-lès-Avignon can even be spied from the Palais des Papes. Around a forty minute walk from Provence (and even less by bus or car) , highlights of this medieval town include a church with beautiful cloisters, and the 14th-century fortress, Fort Saint André.

Often alleged to be one of the most beautiful villages in France, Les Baux de Provence is a historic Southern settlement with just a couple of dozen residents in the historic old town.

Home to several churches (including an ecclesiastical building that’s quite literally been hewn out of the cliff face) , some of the more ‘hidden gems’ of this South of France village include a free-to-visit museum that’s dedicated to Nativity figures and an art museum that’s located in a former quarry.

Of all the beautiful places to visit in the South of France, the lavender fields are an absolute must, particularly those in Provence where swathes of purple stretch as far as the eye can see onto the horizon.

The Valensole lavender fields of Provence are widely regarded to be some of the prettiest lavender fields in France and are best seen between mid June and mid July, just before the harvest.

Grasse is a centuries old town along the azure blue French Riviera which is well worth a visit on any trip to France. Situated in the rolling hills to the North of Cannes, the picturesque town is famed for its perfume production.

Another major highlight of Grasse is its stunning cathedral, which even features some Rubens paintings. If you can’t make it all the way to Grasse to learn the secrets of fragrance making, then you might instead consider a perfume workshop in Paris.

One of the more unique places to see in the South of France Colorado Provençal . As its name would suggest, the Colorado Provençal resembles Colorado in the USA. Indeed, when I recently posted a photo of this magical French destination on social media, many people commented that it resembled the deserts of Colorado perfectly!

The Colorado Provençal is a former open-air ochre quarry close to the village of Rustrel in Provence. Since 1993, the site has been open to tourists and can only be seen on foot (no horses or bicycles are allowed within the quarry site).  Today the geological site is a true marvel to see and is fun for all age groups to visit.

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

susan kabuku

Tuesday 3rd of September 2019

such a beautiful read. im planning to visit France in the near future, this article is very informative. Thank you

francetaste

Monday 16th of July 2018

I live near Carcassonne, and while the fortified city is filled with visitors in summer, it's lower-key the rest of the year, and the rest of the city doesn't feel very touristy at all. It's an excellent base for visiting other sights, from vineyards and quaint villages to Mediterranean beaches. The summer crowds are worth bearing, though, because in July there's a huge music/theater/dance festival, and in August there are great medieval jousting shows--like rodeos but with the riders in chain mail.

15+ Most Beautiful Places in the South of France to Visit in 2024

Hello World

Let us guess. You’ve watched too many French travel blogs, and now you’re stuck thinking about where to visit. After all, there are too many of these chic roads and pleasant small towns with secrets in every corner. We’d feel the same as you if we were in your shoes.

But, where are the most beautiful places in the south of France and where do you begin?

This blog answers all your queries and questions by delving into the details of the popular destinations in the south of France.

But first, ask yourself: What kind of traveler are you? Are you seeking the tranquility of rural landscapes or the excitement of bustling coastal cities?

So, by the end of this article, you’ll know exactly where to stay in the south of France and where to visit. Therefore, save yourself from confusion and make the most of your time traveling.

Key Takeaways: ➜ Enjoy activities like snorkeling, deep diving, laser tag, or simply lounging by the crystalline waters, followed by delectable dining experiences at renowned restaurants. ➜ Discover the charm of quaint villages and medieval towns such as Saint-Paul de Vence, Gordes, and Èze, each offering unique experiences like art exploration, market days, and historic sites. ➜ Experience diverse landscapes, rare fauna, and exhilarating activities like paragliding and wildlife spotting while relishing in local cuisine and hospitality.

The Most Beautiful Places in the South of France to Visit

From idyllic beaches in Saint Tropez to the quaint and charming villages of the French Riviera, Southern France comprises numerous beautiful and elegant cities and small towns. At every turn, you’ll find a new place to eat, a new spot to relax, and a new friend to make.

However, it’s easy to feel as if you’re missing out on worthwhile experiences, especially when it is your first time visiting France. It’s easier to get lost in the alleyways of the Provencal villages than to appear at the right spots on your first try.

But maybe you’re wondering where to visit in the south of France on a budget . You may worry about being right rather than relax and enjoy, which is your purpose for visiting in the first place.

We have divided this list into 5 distinct categories for a more organized understanding of what is where, so you don’t get lost.

1. Breathtaking Coastlines and Beaches

Melt away your stress and worries by indulging in the sun-kissed, sandy beaches in the south of France on the French Riviera and its delightful offerings. There is so much more to these beaches than it looks, as they have something for everyone, whether you’re outgoing or reserved.

Paloma Beach, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Starting fresh with Paloma Beach, bask in the sunshine and pristine waters along the shore of this iconic landmark of the French Riviera.

“Named after the renowned fashion designer Paloma Picasso, this scenic beauty on the northern side of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is one you must not miss during your stay.”

Consider taking a dive into the turquoise waters by snorkeling and deep diving and seeing the most beautiful parts of southern France. Also, you can try touring around Cannes Bay and the Lérins Islands for more discovery.

When you’re worn out from your activities, head to Capitaine Cook, one of the most famous family-owned restaurants with reasonable pricing. Definitely don’t miss their renowned octopus salad and their freshly caught oysters with mignonette sauce and mussels alongside roasted veal and beef filets.

Consider retreating to the Hotel Royal-Riviera at the end of the day, overlooking Provencal Gardens as you head to slumber.

Plage de Pampelonne, Saint-Tropez

A glamorous Côte d’Azur beach, Plage de Pampelonne is a busy shoreline sparkling with white sand at dawn and celebs at dusk. This is also the very beach where “And God Created Woman” was famously shot.

Plus, you can opt for Laser Forest Tag with your family and friends in the forests of this beach. It will be quite an adventure, as well as one of the best places in the south of France for young adults !

Shoot infrared laser guns and explore the beauty of Pampelonne through a new, adventurous lens. Super safe and child and pet-friendly as well.

If you like to relax, throw down a towel and splash around the crystalline waters as you look over the horizon of aquamarine waters.

But if you’re a partygoer and love the swanky atmosphere, the nighttime activities of Le Club 55 with exotic costumes and drinks will captivate you for sure.

Plage du Midi, Cannes

A fine, white, sun-kissed stretch of beach along the French Riviera, Plage du Midi is definitely one of the most picturesque places in the south of France to escape to.

Luxuriate in the trendy and glam aura of Cannes as you relax on a floating pontoon over the azure blue waters. You can revel in the romantic and glam aura of Cannes in this perfect getaway as you slide off on one of the many floating pontoons into the azure blue waters.

For the sporty traveler, you can partake in the many renowned water sports this Blue Flag the awarded beach is known for. Get your adrenaline rushing by parasailing, kayaking, and kite-surfing the waves along the shores of Plage du Midi.

To wrap the day up, head to Maema Plage du Midi, and relish the Mediterranean cuisine with the exceptional view of Cannes on their private beach. Sip a cocktail or two and forget about your worries.

2. Captivating Countryside and Lavender Fields

Next, we move onto the quaint countryside of southern France and some of the most globally popular places, the lavender fields. The sheer beauty and activities around here make it more of a worthy holiday destination to venture into.

Plateau de Valensole, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence

Literally translating to ‘Valley of the Sun’, Plateau de Valensole is an elegant sunny town of tiered streets and houses in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. This beautiful town boasts its renowned lavender fields and ancient architecture, with iconic Juliet balconies adorning the scenery.

If you’re visiting the capital of the lavender region during the mid-June to mid-July period, make sure to stroll over to Les Grandes Marges.

“It’s a 4-generation family-owned lavender farm with beautifully arranged bouquets and organic products to take home as a token of Valensole.”

You can also take the scenic route along the Boulevard Frédéric Mistral and discover the many cafes and bistros strewn around the area. When in one of the most beautiful small towns in the south of France , make sure to pay a visit to Le Bistrot a Vin and revel in their meal or drink of the day after a long day of traveling.

Sault-en-Provence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Being one of the main popular stops during Lavender Tours, Sault-en-Provence is a lovely and appealing commune atop a hill located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur.

Loaded with elaborate distilleries and lavender fields, you can consider visiting during the lavender blooming season for the best experience (mid-June to mid-July).

You’ll get the chance to partake in various lavender-themed summer festivals and be a part of this wondrous culture of Sault-en-Provence. While you’re at it, take a tour of the Romanesque church, Notre Dame de la Tour, and relish in the rich history of the place for a delightful experience.

Lastly, on this part of the South of France map, do try the popular and delectable macarons, nougats, and lavender honey!

Luberon Valley, Central Provence

Home to century-old traditions, the heart of Provence, the Luberon Valley has never failed to preserve its alluring Provencal charm through the years.

This area in Central Provence is home to several stunning and picturesque villages, 5 of them (Gordes, Menerbes, Lourmarin, Ansouis, and Roussillon) classified as ‘ Les Plus Beaux Villages de France ’ (The Most Beautiful Villages of France).

It’s a well-established fact by now that June to August is the best time to visit the south of France for obvious Lavender-related reasons.

Aside from boasting magnificent lavender fields, you can visit one of the many castles and forts in the villages of Luberon, like the Gordes castle and the Buoux Fort.

You’re always a few steps away from the nearest winery for a delectable and memorable dinner. Hence, make sure to try out their signature bouillabaisse paired with one of their dry white wines for a delightful flavor to remember.

3. Picturesque Villages and Medieval Towns

Moving onto the quaint and endearing villages and medieval towns teeming with a rich history of the past. Here, expect to gaze upon eye-catching architecture, learn more about the history of these French Riviera towns, and take abundant pictures.

Saint-Paul de Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

A visit to one of the oldest medieval towns on the French Riviera is a must-have on anyone’s South of France itinerary. Saint-Paul de Vence is one of them, and it is a beautiful medieval-walled city known for its emphasis on art, literature, and cinematography.

Known as the artist’s paradise, this rich, historical village has lots to see.

Moving on, explore the winding streets of the ramparts to get a taste of life back then. As you pass through Bastion St-Rémy, make sure to enjoy the view of the old town.

Also, pay a visit to the Foundation Maeght and the graves of famous artists like Marc Chagall.

Planning to stay here for a couple of days? Check in to Hotel Le Saint Paul with its charming rooms and a lovely view over the Provencal hills, or head over to L’élégante for a group stay.

Gordes, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Located in the Luberon, this medieval city is known as the Parthenon of Provence for its enchanting beauty and stony look.

Venture into the peaceful and quiet setting of Lady of Senanque Abbey , where monks reside and the air is filled with the scent of olive oil and honey.

Tuesdays are market days in Gordes . So make sure to buy local products from vendors and enjoy this delightful experience.

For a romantic and dreamy feeling, you can book a table to eat at La Bastide de Pierres, a chic Italian restaurant at the Place du Chateau. Make sure to pay a visit to Le Château de Gordes , one of the oldest medieval castles in France, and enjoy the Renaissance period artwork and architecture.

Èze, French Riviera

This one is one of the best places to visit in the south of France with kids . The medieval and bijou village of Èze is sure to steal your heart just as it did ours with its charming allure and adorable cobbled streets. Good luck putting your camera away because this photogenic village has irresistible scenic value.

Feast on the natural beauty at Eze’s crown jewel, Le Jardin Exotique. Explore the vibrant flora of the region and its colorful history, paired with the unparalleled views offered by the French Riviera.

Don’t miss the Eze Church and take a peek inside at its beautifully painted ceilings and ornate pillars. And, make sure to visit the Exotic Garden of Eze to get a better view of Eze and the Cap.

Lastly, grab some cheese and baguette on your stroll and keep yourself cool with some Gelato on your way as you continue to discover Eze.

Carcassonne, Languedoc 

Carcassonne at Languedoc is an unmissable journey through time with a touch of fairytale vibes. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of those gems that could be easily overlooked, so make the best of your time here.

Marvel at the fairytale-like turrets that dot the panoramic landscape seen from the Château Comtal atop the hill. Delve into the famous medieval citadel, La Cité de Carcassonne , and admire the historic richness of this place and the numerous watchtowers and double-walled fortifications.

Also, check out Comte Roger; it’s one of the best locally-owned restaurants to dine at for its marvelous terrace top at 14 Rue Saint-Louis.

4. Majestic Mountains and National Parks

Spread your wings and experience the natural allure of Southern France by hiking up enchanting trails and climbing majestic mountain peaks.

After all, it is high time to indulge your adventurous senses with exciting activities, all in the safety of protected national parks with magnificent biodiversity to explore.

Mercantour National Park, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence

The south of France has something for everyone, and in this case, our fellow hiking and climbing travelers. Mercantour National Park boasts scenic biodiversity with its snow-capped Alps and vertiginous slopes grazed by horned chamois.

This underrated natural treasure trove of the Côte d’Azur teems with rare fauna and flora and is perfect for exploration. You can explore the mountain culture and vastly diverse landscapes of Alpine meadows with running crystal springs surrounded by glaciers and steep, jagged peaks.

Brave on with long-distance randonnées and explore different campsites each night for a truly immersive hiking experience along the scenic landscapes of this protected park.

Climb the Peak of Gelas and refuel at the family-owned Relais des Merveilles with refreshing mushroom-stuffed ravioli and nettle soups.

Vercors Regional Natural Park, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region

Find your way around the biodiversity of the Vercors Regional Natural Park with its 3,000+ kilometers of organized signposts, spectacular views, and charming villages.

Laden with exciting activities, this natural park easily makes it one of the best places in the south of France for families to visit. With your own donkey companion, hike along the Vercors mountain range for an unforgettable experience.

Moving on, hike to the top of the Grand Vermont, and don’t miss the amazing wildlife of the Vercors Massif while you’re at it.

Ibex and vultures are sure to make an appearance at some point, so watch out for them.

To top it off, paraglide over the scene and discover beautiful, quaint villages to pay a visit to, like Méaudre and Lans-en-Vercors.

Écrins National Park, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Situated between the northern and southern Alps, the Écrins National Park boasts a breathtaking mountain range known as the Écrins massif.

Containing over 10,000 hectares of glaciers and 150 summits above 3,000 m , this range is often dubbed the ‘paradise’ for hikers and rock climbers alike.

Also, you can find La Barre des Écrins (4,100 m), the highest point, and admire the panoramic view of the glaciers from above.

Furthermore, skiers are welcome to explore the Girose Glacier with ski tours and fully experience the snow-capped scenic beauty of Écrins Park.

Keep an eye out for Écrins National Park’s own hiking page to follow scenic hiking trails and locations to visit next.

5. Unique Islands and Natural Reserves

Finally, surround yourself with the combined beauty of beaches and natural reserves as you explore the conserved ecosystem of these idyllic islands. Hike, dive, and tour around these terrains to make the most of your experience surrounded by diverse wildlife.

Porquerolles Island, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Set sail on the azure blue waters to the vivid and colorful Porquerolles island of the Côte d’Azur. This enchanting island, listed among the Golden Islands , with its conserved biodiversity, is one of France’s most worthwhile places to visit.

As a traveler, you’re encouraged to explore the terrain of this island through intense bike rides, hikes through the forests, and guided boat tours. Hence, dive and snorkel your way through the pristine waters and surround yourself with the unique marine biodiversity of the Porquerolles beaches.

Finally, once you’re done exploring this Mediterranean oasis, replenish your energy at Le Pelagos and try their local fish and potatoes. Follow it up with some ice cream to cool off the steam.

Pro Tip: You can use an electric bike for greater ease in uphill exploration!

Camargue National Reserve, Rhône Delta

Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site of Humanity , the Camargue National Reserve is strictly protected with a mission to promote responsible tourism.

The ecosystem of the rich and biodiverse landscape of this reserve is one to marvel at, as you don’t just see it but can be a part of it. Hence, make sure to participate in equestrian activities and enjoy the free-roaming wildlife with bulls, flamingoes, egrets, herons, and innumerable animal species living in harmony.

“With two-thirds of Europe’s bird species present here, this is an amazing spot for birdwatchers, amateurs, and experts alike.”

Things to keep on your itinerary for discovery:

• Marais du Vigueirat Nature Reserve
• Marais du Verdier
• Capelière Nature Reserve
• Mas du Pont de Rousty, Arles
• Pont de Gau ornithological park
• Aigues-Mortes, citadel placed in the middle of marshes and lagoons
• Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

Scandola Nature Reserve, Corsica

Another UNESCO World Heritage site to be included on this list, the Scandola Nature Reserve ranks highly on the list of the best places to visit in southern France. Enjoy the most splendid coastline in all of Corsica by boat, surrounded by regional ospreys, cormorants, and giant gulls.

These boat trips also give you the best view of the coastline, which is adorned with mountain ranges. If you’re lucky, you may spot dolphins in the blue waters of the coast, so keep your eyes open.

Even if you don’t spot dolphins, the scenic rock formations of Calanches de Piana are highly worth seeing, as are the numerous seabird species.

Also, you can stop by the Gulf of Girolata to observe the numerous volcanic rock formations and underwater caves peppering these locations.

Finally, experience the ephemeral beauty of the sunset, catching on to the dramatic jagged red cliffs for an unforgettable and mesmerizing scenery.

How to Choose the Most Beautiful Place in the South of France?

We know beauty is subjective, and the same goes for places to visit in south France. However, we can always nudge you to make the right decision in your mind. Keep the following in mind as you choose where to visit one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world:

Know Your Taste

First things first, what gets your heart racing with excitement? Are you all about lounging on sun-kissed beaches, or do you prefer wandering through quaint villages steeped in history? Understanding what tickles your fancy will set the stage for an unforgettable getaway.

Compare Scenery, Architecture, and Heritage

Do you fancy the rugged beauty of the Provencal countryside, the glamorous allure of the French Riviera, or the medieval charm of towns like Carcassonne?

Hence, take a peek at the architecture and heritage of each destination to see what captures your imagination.

Find out Activities and Attractions Aligning with Your Taste

What gets your heart racing? Is it sipping wine in vineyards, exploring ancient ruins, or basking under the Mediterranean sun on pristine beaches?

Make sure your chosen destination offers activities and attractions that align with your interests. Whether it’s hiking in the Alps or indulging in gourmet delights, there’s something for everyone.

Compare Accessibility and Seasonal Considerations

With ample accessibility and optimal seasonal weather, a trip can be enjoyed to the fullest. Seasonal patterns can determine a lot and may affect local attraction availability and crowding too, so make sure you are informed.

Moreover, choose the theme of your trip and plan according to the seasons. Summer may be best for lavender field visits, while fall has a more serene experience for people who love fewer crowds.

Safety and Security

Last but certainly not least, prioritize your safety and security. While the South of France is generally a safe destination, it’s always wise to stay informed about any travel advisories or local guidelines.

Only go for verified secure spots, and check customer reviews for additional reassurance. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in bustling tourist areas.

Closing Speech

With all that being said, we hope this gives your wandering mind some ideas for visiting France and where to visit the south of France to start. Also, it saves you from those dreadful ‘Top 10 most beautiful places in the south of France’ Google searches (we’ve given you 16 with details!)

As you can see, the French Riviera’s age-old charm and allure remain intact and flourish to date thanks to unified efforts.

Thanks to the diverse landscapes and vibrant culture, there is a bit of everything for everyone!

However, the experiences vary from person to person, and what makes it enchanting is how you experience it. Hence, we urge you to visit and create your own experiences.

Happy Traveling!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where are the South of France best places to visit?

The South of France has numerous places to visit in varying categories. There are lavish beaches like Paloma and Pampellonne. Or you may prefer vibrant nature parks like Ecrins and Mercantour. Also included are charming villages like Carcassonne and Gordes.

What is so special about the South of France destinations?

The most beautiful cities in the south of France have special attributes aplenty. This includes fantastic age-old architecture, preserved traditions from the past, scenic views, and delectable food and wines, among many others.

Where in the South of France has the best beaches?

There are many South of France cities boasting beautiful beaches, such as Saint-Tropez, and Cannes among many more.

Where to visit south of France top must-visit destinations?

Top places to visit in the south of France include Cannes, Saint-Tropez, Nice, Porquerolles, Biarritz, and Provence.

Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known beautiful places in the South of France?

Some easily overlooked gems of southern France include the lavender fields at Sault Plateau and the quaint and charming village of Carcassonne. Also, walk along the Boulevard de La Croisette of Cannes for a fantastic experience.

What are the best coastal towns to visit in the South of France?

Some of the best coastal towns in the South of France include Eze Village, Saint-Tropez, Nice, and Cannes among many.

Which cities in the South of France are known for their beautiful architecture?

The quaint villages of Carcassonne and Plateau de Valensole are laden with elegant architecture, like wrought iron fencing and Juliet balconies. Other examples are Eze, Cannes, Provence, and Gordes.

What are the most picturesque villages in the South of France?

Some of the most picturesque villages can be found in the Luberon Valley, including Gordes, Roussillon, Lourmarin, Menerbes, and Goult.

How can I best experience the beauty of the South of France’s countryside?

One of the many best ways to enjoy the beauty of southern France’s countryside is to immerse yourself in guided day trips for a better idea of what is where.

Kayla D. Martinez

Senior Travel Writer

South of France Holidays for Families: Discover the Top 5 Destinations!

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The 18 most beautiful beaches in the South of France

By Rachel Everett and Katie Dailey

In Vincent Van Gogh’s words: “The whole future of art is to be found in the South of France .” The bevvy of beaches in the region is a testament to this – they are works of art in their own right. While the Cote d'Azur is renowned for its razzle-dazzle, the whole area spans the Camargue and down to Corsica , with its wonderfully wild beaches.

Overall, the South of France has it all: a rich heritage and steeped history, Provençal countryside villages and markets, and sparkly white beaches with azure coves. The big blue beckons on any trip here, with some of the most idyllic, exclusive and elusive spots aligned together. The French Riviera is known for its celebrity clientele and there are sophisticated, high-grade, sandy beaches to decamp to: some public, some private.

The plethora of pristine shores makes it hard to choose – be it Calvi, Porquerolles or Pampelonne, we’ve selected eighteen beach destinations you’ll long to be on. Glamorous beach clubs, superyachts and Breton stripes are optional. 

You’ll see why this area is home to some of the best beaches in France . Plus for more inspiration, see our edit of the best beaches in Europe .

Plage des Marinieres, Villefranche-sur-Mer

The good-looking French fishing village of Villefranche-sur-Mer, sandwiched between Monaco and Nice, is also the perfect beach stop. Its pretty Provencial scenes, rainbow-bright shuttered houses and flower-fringed markets are alluring on their own - it’s a must-visit even without the added beach attraction. Though the French Riviera has many pebble beaches, Plage des Marinieres ups the sandy shores game with its flour-soft sands. The beach has curves in all the right places: it’s a crescent of sand that sweeps around cobalt waves. The Citadel, a 16th-century medieval fortress, is perched atop a hill and affords sublime views of Cap Ferrat and the Cote d’Azur - go for a sundowner to remember.

Plage du Camp Long, Agay Bay, Agay

Agay, a half-moon bay near St Raphaël (a mere 15-minute drive) is a spectacular destination on the French Riviera coastline. The bay itself is cloaked in greenery and rimmed by hills and secret creeks making it feel like a secretly-special part of the region away from the hordes. But Plage du Camp Long has long been a favourited beach in the South of France. Its natural asset is its breathtaking forest-clad beach under the shadows of the Esterel mountains. After spending time at this blissed-out beach bounty, head back to the seaside city of Saint-Raphaël for haute cuisine on the sparkling marina.

En Vau, Massif des Calanques

For an adventure, journey to the Massif des Calanques - the spectacular limestone coves and cliffs that run some 20km from Marseille right the way to Cassis. Tip: grab your hiking boots. It’s not a place for the vertiginous as hiking this lofty area can be a challenge for some, but its natural, artistic beauty is soul-reviving. Astonishing En Vau is a hike with a memorable view of deep emerald waters and mighty, craggy cliffs. It’s one for Dora (the Explorer) and to experience the sheer beauty of the Calanques rather than idling by the sea - it’s your future screensaver.

Paloma Beach, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Paloma Beach on Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat - named after Paloma Picasso, who spent time with his family in the tranquil, tucked-away spot - has always been considered one of the French Riviera’s most captivating beaches. Nestled deep within greenery, in a breathtaking location, Paloma is the best place for pure relaxation. Have time out on the beach where the rich and famous have been known to escape to and exclusivity reigns: a section of these special sands is reserved for private guests only. With its 1950s nostalgia, fine pebble beach and unreal coastal views, this is the place to hang out and people-watch. Paloma is also family-friendly, so there are lots of watersports on offer including paddleboarding, sailing and water skiing, keeping the kids busy - while you gaze at the gleaming yachts on the water.

Calvi Beach, Calvi, Corsica

The French island of Corsica is frequently voted a top beach destination. Why? For starters, it boasts an impressive 200 beaches - a blend of quieter, lesser-known adult havens and a selection of more boisterous family sands. In the north of the island, Plage de Calvi’s pure white whisper of sand is four miles long and a little bit of heaven. A bonus: families love it here too, with its soft granules ripe for sandcastles and sultry simmering waves - aquatic pursuits are the order of the day. There’s no need to bring a picnic, there are ample restaurants and cafes set back off the shores. Rating all of Corsica’s beaches would be a wonderful assignment you might not want to return from.

Antibes, French Riviera

One of the Riviera’s most dashing destinations, Antibes has a storied history filled with artists, writers and celebrities - Picasso, Fitzgerald, Di Caprio, Beyonce and Jay Z - it’s clear why they still descend in droves. Antibes’ soft, honey-hued swathes of beach and bright, crystalline seas are both part of its natural charms. Book a stay at super-luxe Cap d’Antibes Beach Hotel or Art-Deco-design Hôtel Belles Rives (formerly Villa Saint-Louis) where Fitzgerald stayed with Zelda and penned ‘Tender is the Night’. Show off your Breton stripes at the ritzy beach clubs facing the turquoise waters or take the Picasso trail - a ravishing 5km walking route covering his creative inspiration that hugs the rugged coast. Tucked between Nice and Cannes , Antibes’ old town is perfectly Provencial and an amble around the local markets or a lingering lunch stop is essential. For families seeking an active beach, Plage de la Salis is family-friendly with stress-free gentle waters.

Pampelonne, St Tropez

When thinking of the French Riviera, flashy St Tropez always springs to mind with its swagger, superyachts and sublime restaurants. And Pampelonne Beach is the beach that gets the press. Bridget Bardot’s famed hangout and 40th birthday location is everything you’d imagine it to be: unapologetically ravishing. Glitzy deluxe hotels and clubs aside, the beach is public property. More importantly, the talcum-powder-soft sands and deep blue ocean are near-perfection. A Bardot bikini is optional: there’s also a nudist section for those that really want to sample the great outdoors. Summer gets stacked and temperatures rocket, so go off-peak to have more space and breezy sea air.

Porquerolles Island, Var

It’s a mere five-mile ferry trip from the southern French coast to the petite island of Porquerolles . This gorgeous isle is ideal for escaping the masses and switching off - the Bali Hai-style island is the best advert for beachy paradise. The island’s nature is protected and no cars are allowed, making it feel all the more special. There is a magical mix of soft sandy sweeps, and dramatic hiking trails, both enveloped by the beautiful big blue. Notre Dame is the best beach to lounge on: this shady, tree-fringed stretch of beach feels far removed from the mainland, and - a note to snorkellers - the aqua waters are teeming with technicolour fish. Beach days couldn’t get better, just bring supplies and you’re all set.

Plage de Sylvabelle, La Croix Valmer

You have to access the white sands of Sylvabelle via quite a steep rocky set of steps, which means even in high season you’re likely to find a place for your towel. The sand is fine and golden, the sea clear – not so unusual for the area. But what is unusual is the complete absence of commerce: no music, no beach bars, no car noise. So bring lunch and a book.

Baie de Paulilles, Port-Vendres

This calm curve of a bay doesn’t have the golden sand of nearby Argelès-sur-Mer, or the crowds that come to sit on it. But it has a magnificent view of the Albères, and a rich (and highly protected) sea life that makes for wonderful snorkelling.

Plage Rayol-Canadel

A golden family beach with soft sand and spectacular sunset views of Cap Nègre, the peninsula owned almost entirely by Carla Bruni’s family. ake a sun lounger at buzzy Club Tropicana, where neither the sunbeds nor the drinks are free, or just pitch up with a towel on the sand.\

Plage de Portissol, Sanary-sur-Mer

The Provençal harbour of Sanary is worth a visit in itself – it’s a lovely example of simple South of France coastal living, dotted with fish restaurants and smaller boats. A short walk away, the beach dominates this natural bay west of Toulon – posidonia (a natural sea grass) is allowed to encroach on the sand, which makes for a very natural environment and sparkly clean sea. There are some concessions to man: a diving board and steps allow visitors to plunge into the sea at its deepest point, and showers are provided for those exiting the bay. Otherwise the sea is shallow for several metres, meaning it’s great for non-swimmers, and pebbly underfoot, which makes it ideal for snorkelling.

Plage de la Mala, Cap d'Ail

Although it’s between the legendary summering spots of Monaco and Saint-Jean Cap-Ferrat, this small sandy beach is not particularly crowded. Largely because parking is sometimes difficult and there is a steep rocky descent to get to the cove. But for those who make the trip, or have a boat to drop them directly on the sand, there are two Provençal restaurants with sunbeds, amazing views of the Caps and a little watersports hire centre. The beach is at its best off season, when you might have the sand to yourself.\

Pointe de l'Aiguille, Théoule-sur-Mer

The stretch of coastline between Saint-Raphaël and Cannes is quite extraordinary – with russet beaches backed by red rocks that look more like they’re from Mars than the Côte d'Azur. This area has been much colonised by the hotel industry, but Théoule is relatively untouched, protected by a preservation order. Don’t expect white sand – the Pointe de l’Aiguille beach is pebbly and dotted with large boulders, and it takes a walk along a rocky path to get to it, but it’s a stunning natural cove. From here you get great views of Cannes and the passing gin palaces sailing the Med. The craggy shore shouldering the beach is a challenge for the intrepid to go rock diving straight into the limpid water. Take your lunch, or look out for the little snack boat that pulls up in high season.

Plage de l'Ouille, Collioure

A secluded beach off the beaten track at the foot of the Pyrenees, with completely transparent waters for snorkelling around the rocks and peaceful swimming alongside abundant fish. If you don’t have a mask with you, the sea here is so clear that you can stand knee deep in the water and watch them glide past. Just one restaurant serves the beach, with unpretentious seafood and Catalan dishes. It’s a short walk from the pretty Catalonian harbour of Collioure, which is dominated by the Fort Carré, an 18th-century fortress built on the unspoilt coast.

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10 Amazing Places To Visit In The South Of France

Doesn’t matter if you’ve been before or if you’re a first-timer, the South of France is amazing to visit. Not only that, there are heaps of the best places to visit in the south of France dotted all across the coastline and inland regions. 

From the stunning beaches, and amazing Mediterranean cuisine to a plethora of cute little French villages; it’s a stunning region of France to visit. 

So it’s decided! You’re heading to visit the South of France this summer. The next question is, where to visit?  It’s not like you can just visit ‘The South of France” – that’s like attempting to book plane tickets to “Florida” – you need to be a tad more specific. 

So, to help you along your merry way, here are some of my favourite and best places to visit in the south of France. Have an amazing trip to France. 

1.) Avignon

Avignon is a city steeped in rich religious history and stunning architecture to see. You see, there was a time in the Middle Ages when this charming city was the centre of western Christendom. This alone makes it one of the best places to visit in the south of France, especially if you’re interested in religious history. 

No fewer than six papal conclaves were held in the breathtaking (UNESCO World Heritage) Palace of the Popes in the 14th century. Best of all, it still has fascinating little relics from this time. You can still see such gothic frescoes on the walls of the papal apartments.

Essentially, if you want a city break that’s filled with amazing sights to see and perhaps aren’t too bothered by catching some rays on the beach, then Avignon is perfect for you.

Oh, almost forgot to add; the magnificent ruins of Pont Saint-Bénézet (also known as the Pont d’Avignon) poke out across the Rhône and are also a UNESCO World Heritage sight that’s worth seeing in the city.

Shift down a gear and browse the arty walled town, take a cruise on the river, and see if you can come for the Theatre Festival in July when the city becomes one giant stage. 

Read more: Best beach holiday destinations in France

2.) Carcassonne

The centre of Carcassonne , above the right bank of the Aude, is truly a sight to behold. In fact, I’d go as far as saying it’s one of the best places to visit in the south of France that is small enough to walk around but large enough to fill a few days’ trip. 

Not only that, the ancient walls have hugged this part of the tower since the 4th century and they were even reinforced in the 13th century. This was to help act as an even mightier barrier against the Crown of Aragon to the south. 

After the 17th century, the barriers were no longer needed and left to decay, till an architect with a sense of purpose (and a whole lotta time) came along and revamped them in the 19th century.

To see the full grounds and the wider castle of Carcassonne, book these tickets that’ll get you right into the main areas. With these tickets , you’ll even get to see the Salle Pierre Embry that’s been here since the 1400s. 

Top tip: Be sure to pop by to see the stained glass windows in the Basilica of Saints Celsus and Nazarius – these 17th-century windows are pretty impressive in their own right.

Read more: Visiting Carcassone

3.) Aix-en-Provence

Aix differs from Carcassonne and Avignon in that people visit this town, less so for its plethora of amazing sights, but for its more laidback charm, the and the beautiful Cours Mirabeau.

That’s what makes it one of the best places to visit in the south of France, especially if you’re looking for a chilled-out trip. 

Oh, don’t forget to visit those famous lavender fields that the area has become very well-known for.

Love your French wines? Then book this wine tour from Aix-en-Provence that will take you into the heart of the Cezanne Countryside. It’s so good and you’ll get some wines to try, too. 

Read more: Best places in Provence to visit

Nice is pretty much what everyone thinks of when they think of the South of France.

It is a grand city of long esplanades and spacious squares that make it one of the best places to visit in the south of France, especially if you’re flying in and out of its airport. In fact, Nice is a great gateway city to the wider south of France region because of its airport. 

Plus, it’s also the 5th largest in France so you won’t be feeling bored for a single second here. You come to Nice for that beach life, the stunning medieval old town and some pretty delicious French food.

Once here, make sure to stroll around Colline du Château (the gardens are beautiful), see the Russian Orthodox Cathedral and visit Magnan Beach for some chill time. 

Oh, and don’t forget to book this tour from Nice that will take you on a day trip down the French Riveria. It takes in so many of the best places in the south of France and it’s all stress-free as they organise all the timings and transport. 

Essentially, if you’re looking for a city break, but also a rather indulgent holiday in the South of France, Nice is where you head.

Read more: Best things to do in Nice

I’m willing to bet that you know one of Albi’s most famous sons (even if you don’t recognise his name).

It’s Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec who painted those iconic scenes of dancers at the Moulin Rouge and created the art nouveau posters inextricably linked with the Belle Époque. This all makes it one of the best places to visit in the south of France when exploring the region’s art history. 

To honour him, there is a museum dedicated to him at the Albi’s Episcopal Palace, which houses over a thousand of his works.

It’s an absolutely beautiful town with the Episcopal City being a UNESCO World Heritage site. Plus, that’s not even mentioning the delicious wine of the region.

Fun fact: The vineyards in this region are more than 3 times the size of Bordeaux .

Read more: Best things to do in Bordeaux

6.) Lourmarin

The little village just to the south of the Luberon Massif is the quintessence of Provence.

All the ingredients for a stunning holiday are here; not least of all the picturesque orchards (to spend many an afternoon getting lost in), towering mountains (almost like they’re standing guard over the village itself) and vineyards as far as the eye can see.

We’re not the only ones impressed with this place. Lourmarin is regarded by most as one of France’s “most picturesque” villages and it certainly lives up to the hype!

It’s a lively little place, with over a dozen cafes and restaurants that make use of what little outdoor space they can find on its tangle of streets.

After arriving, make sure to explore Château de Lourmarin, wander the streets around the castle and just enjoy the small town. 

Read more: Best things to do in Paris

7.) Biarritz

Back in the day, Biarritz used to be your regular French seaside town and over time turned into one of France’s most luxurious holiday destinations.

An embodiment of this transformation is the Hôtel du Palais. It was built as a summer getaway in the middle of the 19th century for Eugénie de Montijo. She was the Empress of the French and the wife of Napoleon III. To this day, still serves as a grand hotel open to the public 

Once here, don’t forget to visit the Casino Barrière, too. It has a lovely golden sandy beach right in front of it to chill out and enjoy. 

This all makes it one of the best places to visit in the south of France; especially when on the western fringes of the country. 

Read more: Best beach holiday in France

8.) Marseille

Love it or hate it, Marseille is the biggest city in the south of France to visit. Yes, it’s a little bit of everything. From chaotic, cosmopolitan to an edgy city, Marseille challenges all of the stereotypes about Provence and the French Riviera.

If you’re looking for some city action, even if it’s just for a day or two, Marseille is worth visiting. 

If you’ve only got a short amount of time here, then get these plans in place. Head straight over to Marseille’s Old Port. It was founded by the Phocaeans around 2,600 years ago and is epic to see. 

To make things easy, book this hop-on-hop-off bus tour of Marseille. It makes it easy to get to each of the city’s best sights to see; without any of the stress of public transport or taxis. The latter of which ripped us off on our last visit to Marseille.

9.) Pézenas

Did you know, that up to the late 18th century, Pézenas was the seat of the Governors of Languedoc? Well, the reason why this is so significant is that it permitted lots of baroque buildings across the small town.

In fact, over 100 buildings here have been listed as historic and protected for generations to come.

Which is all quite impressive for a place of just eight thousand inhabitants.

Pézenas isn’t the most obvious place to visit when you’re in the South of France. That being said, it has a real and less touristy feel. This is especially true when thinking of more popular places in the South of France.

Once here, make sure to stop by the open-air Illustre Theatre for a show. We totally loved it and they have a lovely garden area to mingle. You can even try some local wines before the show.

Also, head over to the Musée International du Jouet (a toy museum) that’s so magical to see.

Finally, don’t forget to walk the winding streets of the historic centre. We loved the area around Rue Merciere. 

Arles is a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its abundance of Roman and Romanesque architecture. In fact, it’s still got an impressive list of sites to see in the south of France. From a; Roman theatre, amphitheatre, baths, necropolis and aqueduct; to mention but a few.

Arles is one of the best places to visit in the south of France for its Roman history. 

Every corner you turn is pretty much a guaranteed picture-perfect moment. In my opinion, it’s all the small cobbled streets make it one of the best places to visit in the south of France. It’s just stunning. 

This probably explains why this was home to Vincent van Gogh for quite a few years.

The Ligurians (yes, the same ones as in Cinque Terre), back in 800 BC were one of the first in this area. These were quickly followed by many others. From the Celts, and Phoenicians (from the Lebanese region ) to eventually the Romans. Hence this city has such a rich and strong heritage perfect to visit when in the south of France. 

After arriving, make sure to explore the Amphitheatre, which will take around 90 minutes to stroll around. Then, make your way over to the Museum of Ancient Arles to learn more about the region’s long history. The latter is a perfect place to visit on a rainy day. 

Finally, don’t forget to visit Espace van Gogh . It’s a great place to see some of the seasonal exhibits. Plus, you can learn about the (almost) 200 paintings that Van Gogh painted in Arles. 

Want to space the city, head out to Camargue Natural Regional Park. Book this Camargue Safari tour that will pick you up from the centre of Arles and take you to see wild horses, wild horses and flamingos that frequent the area. It’s a full-day tour and so much fun for the whole family. 

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South of France | The 15 most unique places you should visit

France is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. It has a mixture of both natural and human-made beauty. Known for its stunning European architecture and historical importance. Paris, ‘The capital of France’ is located in the northern part of the country and is a world-famous tourist destination. A lot of people who plan trips to France tend to keep Paris and other Northern parts of the country on their list but what they don’t realize is that the South of France holds a similar amount of beauty as well.

The South of France is a popular place for a lot of Europeans. Many Dutch, Belgians, English, Italians and Spanish love to travel to the South of France. Locally known as “le Midi”. If you are planning on visiting France then you should definitely visit the south of France otherwise you would miss out on a fantastic travelling experience. Let’s take a look at some of the best places to visit in the South of France. And don’t forget to share below in the comments which place in the South of France you like to travel to.

Read our other blogs about France:

• The 10 best Surfing spots in France
• 15 reasons why you should visit Nice, France

Nice is the fifth largest city in France. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the South of France. The city is located in the French Riviera and is known for its exuberant beaches and rich art culture. You would find many art galleries and museums throughout the city. Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain is a perfect place for art lovers. It was opened in 1990 and exhibits artwork from the 1960s and 1970s. There is also a specific section for Yves Klein, who was an amazing artist and one of the leading members of the French Artistic Movement of Nouveau réalisme.

Musée Matisse is another fantastic place for art lovers. The museum houses an extensive collection of artwork by the famous French artist Henri Matisse. And Nice is also home to one of the most beautiful Orthodox Churches. The Cathédrale Orthodoxe Russe Saint-Nicolas was built in 1912 by Tsar Nicholas. It contains many different religious and historical items that were brought to the South of France from Russia.

Nice is also famous for its beaches. You’ll find a few of the best beaches in the South of France. La Plage Publique de Beau Rivage is one of the best beaches in the city. Many people visit the beaches to relax and have fun. You can also enjoy different watersports at these beaches. If it’s your first time visiting Nice, then you should definitely take the sightseeing tour which will help you enjoy Nice in its full essence. And read our blog about the 15 reasons why you need to travel to Nice once in your life!

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• Places to stay in Nice
• Rent a car in Nice

This blog about the south of France cannot be complete without talking about the French Riviera. There are several cities on French Riviera that are famous for its beaches and great vibes. Cannes is one of those major cities in the South of France. It is known for its importance in the global showbiz industry.

Film festivals are held in Cannes every year. It is a resort town with a large number of amazing beaches. When we talk about the beaches in France, we cannot ignore the beautiful beaches of Cannes. La Croisette is a strip of land along the coast that has many different restaurants, cafes, and shops. You should definitely take a stroll on La Croisette on your visit to Cannes. Other than visiting these sites you can also hike the Esterel Mountains for an added travelling experience in the South of France.

• Places to stay in Cannes
• Book your activities in Cannes
• Cheap car rental in France

#3 Marseille

Marseille is considered as the oldest city in France. It is a bustling port city in the South of France with a lot of different attractions. As the city is quite old, you would find several historical attractions in Marseille. Le Vieux Port or the old port is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Marseille. The area was a bustling port for thousands of years.

The Mucem is another amazing place to visit in Marseille. The museum is devoted to showcasing the culture of the old civilizations of the Mediterranean region. Like Paris, Marseille has its own Notre Dame known as Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde . You can have an amazing view of the entire city from the top of Notre Dame. Other than visiting a large number of historical sites and amazing markets, you can also roam around the city on a bike with a local guide.

• Places to stay in Marseille

#4 Biarritz

Biarritz is a wonderful seaside town located on the west coast in the South of France. Famous among surfers because of the great waves from the Atlantic Ocean. You can find many different restaurants here with a speciality in seafood. As Biarritz is a seaside town, it is also home to some of the best beaches in the South of France.

La Grande Plage is one of the most visited beaches in Biarritz. If you are someone who likes to play with luck then Casino Barriere should be on your list of places to visit. There are a lot of different tourist destinations in Biarritz that would make you want to stay there.

City Ocean is another great place in Biarritz. It was opened in 2011, which makes it a relatively new museum as compared to other museums in France. The museum is devoted to exhibits that relate to the ocean. You can also enjoy virtual surfing at City Ocean or just hop in the Atlantic Ocean to really experience surfing in the South of France.

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• Places to stay in Biarritz

Pezenas is a small town in the South of France. The city is known for its beautiful architecture. More than 100 buildings in Pezenas have been considered historic. This shows the rich European culture of the town. It is a small town where you might not find as many things as other regions in the south of France, but it is still a significant place to visit.

If you are visiting Pezenas, then don’t forget to visit the local markets which are one of the most popular attractions in the commune. Like most of the other places in the South of France, Pezenas also has an amazing church called Eglise Collegiale Saint-Jean . The church has beautiful European architecture and is open to the general public.

• Places to stay in Pezenas
• Rental cars in France

Historically speaking, Arles is quite easily one of the most significant towns not just in the south of France but in entire Europe. The city has been labelled as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to a large number of Roman and Romanesque architecture in the city. The city was also the hometown of the popular Dutch artist Vincent Van Gogh.

There are many historical tourist destinations in the city, including buildings from the Roman era like theatres, baths, aqueducts and many more. All these sites are open for the public, but you have to be very careful not to damage the buildings. You can also make your way down to some of the finest restaurants in the South of France. Other than the historical sites, you can also find many different art museums in the city. Even though the city has a lot of significance, you can find affordable hotels all over the city.

• Places to stay in Arles

Located in the hills of Alpes Maritimes between Antibes and Nice, Vence is a charming town in the South of France. The Rosary chapel is one of the most beautiful chapels in the South of France. People from all over the world visit this chapel. Cathedral of the Nativity of Saint Mary is another popular religious site in Vence. If you are an art lover, then you should definitely visit Fondation Maeght which features artworks from many different French artists. You can also enjoy a bicycle ride on Col De Vence which would aid you in experiencing nature to its full extent.

• Places to stay in Vence
• Fun activities
• Cheap Rental cars in France

#8 Lourmarin

Quite honestly, the most picturesque place in the South of France. Lourmarin is a small village which is known for its beautiful orchards and scenic views. The village is also home to a large number of vineyards. It has some of the most amazing restaurants in the country. Luberon Regional Nature Park is a spot for people who want to enjoy the natural beauty of the South of France. It is a small village with a lot of significance. While you visit Lourmarin, you can also get a little taste of history by visiting Chateau de Lourmarin which is a stunning castle.

• Places to stay in Lourmarin
• Book your activities

After Arles, Avignon is another place of historical importance in the South of France. The city has a rich cultural and religious history. At one moment in time, it was the most important place for western Christendom. Palais des Papes which translates to the Palace of the Popes is one of the most visited attractions in Avignon.

It has many different relics and items that are important to the entire Christian world. It is ideal to visit the city in summer (July) when the city celebrates a theatre festival by the name of Avignon Festival. You cannot miss the famous half bridge of Avignon Pont d’Avignon .

Other than the religious sites you can also find several different museums in the city including Musée Du Petit Palais . This museum contains artworks from the Renaissance era in Europe. You can find many different cafes and restaurants in the city that serves both local and continental food.

• Places to stay in Avignon
• Fun activities in Avignon

#10 Carcassonne

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Carcassonne is a very unique city in its own right. It is not as well known as other cities in the South of France, but once you visit it, you will never forget it. It is a fortified city which lets you experience the true essence of what people felt when they lived in fortified cities in the medieval era. A national religion monument with the name of The Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus is also located in Carcassonne.

It is an ancient church that is visited by people from all over the world due to its status as a national monument in France. One of the most unique places to visit in Carcassonne is the museum of inquisition. Which exhibits several different items that were used to torture people in the medieval era.

You can roam around the tight alleys of the city which are remnants of old European architecture. You will find several exotic restaurants in the city that serve both local and international cuisines. If you want to enjoy nature in Carcassonne, you can take a stroll or ride a bike along the Canal du Midi .

• Places to stay in Carcasonne
• Activities to book in Carcasonne

#11 Aix-en-Provence

You can enjoy a lot of different things while you visit Aix-en-Provence in the South of France. Lavender fields are one of the most popular attractions in Aix-en-Provence. Whoever visits Aix-en-Provence should surely visit the vast lavender fields. Aix-en-Provence is a university city and contains many attractions like historical sites, markets, museums and a lot of other sights.

It is also home to Atelier de Cezanne which is a museum that features work from the famous French artist Paul Cezanne. The city has many beautiful hotels that were built centuries ago and still rock old European architecture. Pavillion Vendome is another site art lovers should definitely visit. Aix-En-Provence also has a lot of religious sites like Cathedrale St. Sauveur . It is considered as one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the South of France.

• Places to stay in Aix-en-Provence

Albi is one of the most exotic cities in the South of France. Known for its scenic views and amazing architecture. Like most of the other cities in the South of France, Albi also has a rich heritage. The Toulouse-Lautrec Museum is a museum that features the largest collection of work from Henri de Toulouse Lautrec. If you are visiting Albi, you should definitely visit Sainte Cécile cathedral . It is an amazing building that showcases gothic architecture.

Pont Vieux might seem like just another bridge, but it is actually more than 1000 years old. Don’t forget to visit the market hall, which is a lovely indoor market where you can find a large variety of local products from the South of France.

Have you ever wondered about the difficult lives that miners live? Well, you can also experience that in Albi. Musee-Mine Departmental is a unique museum that is devoted to letting visitors experience how miners worked in a harsh environment to provide for their families. You would learn a lot about the lives and work of miners from this museum. Other than these sites you can also eat at a lot of amazing restaurants throughout the city.

• Places to stay in Albi

#13 Antibes

Antibes is another beautiful town in the French Rivera. It is a port city with a lot of amazing attractions. Grimaldi Chateau is one of the most visited attractions in the south of France. It is a museum devoted to exhibiting the work of Pablo Picasso. The tourism industry acts as a backbone for the town’s economy.

Antibes you can find the most amazing beaches in the South of France. You can enjoy a relaxing day on the beach of Cap d’Antibes . There is something for everyone in Antibes. You can find both natural and manmade beauty in Antibes.

• Places to stay in Antibes

Menton is known for its crescent-shaped bay. A town situated on the French Riviera near the border of Italy. The town showcases an amazing and colourful architecture. If you are someone who loves nature, then you can visit the Bioves Garden .

The most calming beaches in the South of France are the Menton Beaches. Jean Cocteau Museum is a great place for art lovers to visit. It features artworks from great French artists. The Lemon Festival is held every year in the town so it is ideal to visit Menton in winter when the lemon festival takes place.

• Places to stay in Menton

#15 Villefranche-sur-Mer

It is one of the oldest towns in the South of France. Known for its cobblestoned streets. Like most of the other towns and cities in South of France, Villefranche is also home to several religious sites. Citadel St Elmo a beautiful Citadel that is visited by a large number of visitors every year.

Plage des Marinières is a one-kilometre-long beach and is one of the longest beaches in the South of France. Villefranche beach is also another great beach on the French Riviera. There are many different forts, castles, galleries, and museums that you can visit while you stay in Villefranche-sur-Mer. If you are someone who loves history, then you should definitely take a stroll on Rue Obscure which is an underground street built in the medieval era.

• Places to stay Villefrance-sur-Mer

We would love to know if you have any additions to this blog and which place in the South of France you like to visit. Let us know in the comments below!

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SOUTH OF FRANCE – 10 PRETTIEST TOWNS TO VISIT

Are you going to the South of France and would like to know which are its prettiest towns and villages ?

In order   to help you plan your visit , I have interviewed Sonia Mota (@ simplyslowtravel ) a true France expert about the dreamiest spots to cover on your next trip to the South of France! You will not get a better expert than her!

So let us share with you a result of exploring the South of France, mainly Côte d’Azur and Provence. In addition to the  must-visit beaches and restaurants , we will also share with you some secret tips on where to go for the best scenic drive and which other nearby towns to visit to make your trip to Portofino a dream come true!

We hope that they will convince you to visit at least once!

SOUTH OF FRANCE – BASIC FACTS

The South of France, with its warm Mediterranean climate , is without a doubt one of Europe’s best summer escape destinations . It has both the coastal, beach lifestyle that we always long for in a Summer vacation, with the dreamy hidden beaches and crystal clear waters of Côte d’Azur , but it also has such a scenic countryside , Provence , with its languid hills covered with lavender fields , sunflower fields, and vineyards , and with a cuisine that is absolutely to die for. Also South of France’s little towns and villages , are some of the prettiest you will find in Europe!

HOW MUCH TIME YOU NEED

If you’re thinking of fully exploring the beauties of both Côte d’Azur and Provence and seeing the South of France’s 10 prettiest towns from this list, you would need a minimum 8-day trip , but if you have the chance, 10 to 12 days will give you more time to further explore at a more relaxed pace both the coast and countryside.

Of course, if you only decide on either Côte d’Azur or Provence, then you could manage to explore those in approximately 4 days ‘ time. Everything can be cut shorter but isn’t slow travel, the best travel?

BEST TIME TO GO

As for when to go, late June to early July are the weeks that take the prize. Why? Because during this period, you’ll have a very summery climate , without being overwhelmingly hot, not yet too many crowds . Generally, it is much busier in late July and August and you’ll have the benefit of finding most lavender fields in Provence in full bloom, just before being harvested.

ADDITIONAL TIPS

As a final recommendation , it is without a doubt that you would need to rent a car for this trip. While the French Riviera is easy to visit by train, as most of the coastline cities and towns have train stations, other towns higher up on the hills , or especially most of the region of Provence , are not connected to the train system . Having your own car will make it so much easier to fully enjoy the trip , and it’s not only easy but also so beautiful to drive there!

TOP 10 PRETTIEST TOWNS IN SOUTH OF FRANCE

• SAINT-PAUL-DE-VENCE
• VILLEFRANCHE-SUR-MER
• SAINT-JEAN-CAP-FERRAT
• MOUSTIERS-DE-SAINTE-MARIE
• AIX-EN-PROVENCE

Èze is our number 1 place on our list of the 10 Prettiest towns in the South of France. It is a little medieval town atop a hill , with narrow stone alleys and with doorways and balconies richly decorated with plenty of flowers! The town overlooks the beautiful coastline, with the luxurious Cap-Ferrat extending into the Mediterranean and forming a bay dotted with yachts , big and small. Here, you have to visit the Jardin Exotique! We also definitely recommend dining at the Château Eza , one of the few restaurants (and a hotel too) in Èze.

2. SAINT-PAUL-DE-VENCE

Saint-Paul-de-Vence is another small hilltop medieval town along the French Riviera coast. This one has a very artsy spirit , with plenty of art shops and galleries as well as different crafts on display. You will without a doubt find something you love here! The town has old stone pathways and alleys look but brought to life with beautiful flower arrangements on doors and balconies. You can’t miss sitting by the Fontaine de Saint-Paul-de-Vence and eating artisanal ice cream from the ice cream shop right by it.

Grasse is home to a centuries-old perfumery tradition . Here you will learn the history of perfumes and how the crafts and fields in Provence adapted to this industry. Visit the Fragonard factory , where you’ll learn the fundamentals of perfumes and essences and be delighted by the many incredible scents they have.

4. VILLEFRANCHE-SUR-MER

Another must-see on our list of South of France’s prettiest towns! Villefranche is one of the most quintessential little towns along the Côte d’Azur. The narrow alleyways surrounded by the colorful pastel-toned houses are just so picture-perfect! Make sure to enjoy going for a swim at the Villefranche-sur-mer beach , with views of the bay and the luxurious Cap-Ferrat. Finally, have a cocktail or dinner along the many waterfront restaurants, such as the Alma Goût Méditerranée – Villefranche.

5. SAINT-JEAN-CAP-FERRAT

A small little town in the luxurious Cap-Ferrat, it has a very relaxed and laid-back feel , embodying perfectly the spirit of the French Riviera . From there, you can wander through the Cap-Ferrat peninsula, through its majestic villas, and go to the different beautiful beaches. Plage Paloma is the absolute favorite , overlooking the yachts at the bay and surrounded by trees and stunning villas.

6. MOUSTIERS-DE-SAINTE-MARIE

This small little town, where Provence meets the Alps , is notorious for its big star hanging between two clifftops. There is a water stream running through the middle of the cliff tops with its several waterfalls giving the town a natural musicality that is hard not to love. Explore the different little shops , with plenty of lavender local products . Make sure to try one of the many ice cream shops – they even have lavender flavour, if you dare!

One of the best-known towns of the Luberon valley, in Provence. Gordes is home to some of the best restaurants, hotels and cafes you’ll find in Provence . It also offers views spanning across the valley and into the hills afar, you’ll not want to miss having a cocktail or dinner with such a scenic backdrop. The best option would be having dinner at L’Orangerie at La Bastide, where all the scenarios will be complemented with flavors from the region. Find my review of La Bastide here .

8. MENERBES

Ménerbes is another small medieval town on top of a hill on the south side of the Luberon valley . It has been home and retreat to several artists through the past couple of centuries. It’s not hard to imagine why they would flee from the hustle to the quietness and scenery of such a location. To top it all up, at the foot of the hill where the town is located, there’s an abundance of vineyards , many of which offer visits and tastings . Is there anything more quintessential in the French countryside than wine tasting?

9. AIX-EN-PROVENCE

One of the main cities in Provence, this one is a surprise to anyone that didn’t know it before. Always so full of life , especially in the evening time with all the terraces and live music on the streets. This city is also known for its many fountains scattered all around town, almost in every little square. This is especially interesting considering that the city doesn’t have any river running through, so they chose to make up for it with all these fountains

Cassis, back on the coast , is a small town east of Marseille, but right by the Calanques National Park . From there, you can either walk or paddle to the beautiful turquoise waters Calanques d’En-Vau and Port Pin . Try to go by kayak – while it can be tiresome, it gives you one-of-a-kind views of the Calanques and an extra freedom to explore that you won’t have if you get there through the trails.

WHERE TO STAY?

Choosing the right accommodation can already be half the success of your trip. Please find below some suggestions:

LE PETIT CABANON AUX LAVANDES

This little beautiful house is not only in the middle of Lavender fields , but also you can get it at a very nice price compared to what one can pay in the region.

LOFT IN AIX-EN-PROVENCE

This is a duplex 2 Bedrooms loft in Aix-en-Provence, very close to the center for easy access to the lively city evenings.

HOTEL CRILLON LE BRAVE

Located in a pretty hilltop village , this luxurious hotel has panoramic views of the Provence hills and a restaurant where you’ll eat Provence on a plate.

COTE D’AZUR

Frederik & tess b&b.

You will find this bed&breakfast in Villefranche-sur-mer . It is a beautiful apartment with a scenic balcony overlooking the Villefranche-sur-mer bay and the luxurious Cap-Ferrat and just a short walk from a morning swim on the beach.

CHARMING AIRBNB

This beautiful apartment is close to the Port of Nice. Not only is it in a very charming and quiet neighborhood but also just a few minutes walking from the Old Town of Nice and the famous Promenade des Anglais.

GRAND HOTEL CAP-FERRAT

For a full luxurious stay , in one of the most exclusive and stylish neighborhoods around the world stay at Cap-Ferrat. The hotel evokes all the dreaminess of the French Riviera style made immortal in the 50s and 60s.

To conclude – if you only had to choose just three places from the above list of 10 prettiest towns in the South of France then we would recommend the following:

• Firstly – Èze, for its medieval magic and views overlooking the coastline
• Secondly – Gordes for its scenic restaurant terraces with views of the Provence valleys and hills
• Finally – Cassis for the absolutely dreamy Calanques .

Above all, many thanks to our expert Sonia from @ simplyslowtravel for sharing everything she loves about South of France! In particular, I’m thankful that she has shared some of the less-known towns and villages!

Sonia, born and raised in Portugal, is an ambassador of slow travel. Following her journey will show you how to enjoy slower-paced trips, rather than ticking off things from your bucket list. Sonia also wrote an extensive and probably the best Guide to the South of France which you can get here !

I mean, we truly couldn’t get a better guide to the South of France than her!

Make sure to check her Instagram Profile and follow her beautiful journeys!

In case you are searching for more inspiration for traveling, then perhaps some of my other Guides will be useful:

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24 must-visit destinations in the South of France

Posted: March 20, 2024 | Last updated: March 20, 2024

After Paris, the South of France is the most popular region for visitors. There are so many amazing spots to visit, though. How does one choose an itinerary? Well, don’t worry. I’ve rounded up 24 of the best places to visit in the South of France!

Nice is the first destination that comes to most Americans' minds when considering a trip to the South of France. As the Côte d'Azur's largest city, it's likely where you'll arrive via either plane or train. Make sure to stroll the Promenade des Anglais along the Mediterranean, climb the stairs up to the ruins of the old fortress (where you'll enjoy the best views in town), and wander narrow, cobblestone streets in Vieux Nice. 

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Just across the border from Italy is this small but totally charming small town of Menton. Perched on a hill amongst the mountains, with the Mediterranean at foot, there really isn't a better base to discover the region. As a bonus, it's generally less crowded than Nice if you visit outside the two-week Lemon Festival in February (also worth checking out if you're okay with many more travelers in town).

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Villefranche-sur-Mer

What used to be a lesser-known fishing village is now much more popular thanks to the hit series Emily in Paris . In the second episode of the second season, the character French people love to hate wakes up in this picturesque town on the French Riviera. Villefranche-sur-Mer is quieter than other locations in the area, but that’s what makes it the perfect vacation spot.

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Eze is a fantastic medieval town in the mountains above the Mediterranean. It's located a 15-minute train ride from Nice and is a great day trip!

Besides Nice, Monaco is the other destination in southern France that Americans are most familiar with. Known for insane wealth, super yachts, a famous casino, and F1, this small city-state is actually its own country. Though surrounded by France on all sides, it makes for an easy day trip from Menton or Nice.

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If you love small towns along the water, then you'll love Cassis. Like Menton, it's a great alternative base and jumping-off point to explore Calanques National Park. The first calanque (small cove) is just a 30-minute walk from town.

France's second-largest city is located right on the Mediterranean, a nice change of pace from Paris. You can eat well cheaply at Les Halles (the public market) in Old Port, visit two amazing cathedrals that tower above the city, and learn about the history at the Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. And don't miss Le Panier, Marseille's hippest neighborhood!

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In the Drôme department of inland Provence lies storybook-worthy Grignan. The hilltop town is perched above lavender fields and houses an impressive castle that once served as the residence for the Ademar family in the 12th century.

Les Baux-de-Provence

One of the most popular small towns in Provence, Les Baux is frequented for a reason. The old rocky ruins of the fortified town are well-preserved and make for a fantastic place to visit.

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Italy isn't the only country with Roman ruins worth visiting! Arles, just south of Avignon, has a huge Roman arena and an adorable town that are well worth visiting.

Avignon is a beautiful town between Lyon and Marseille and a great base for exploring Provence. Most famous for being the one-time residence of the Pope, back in the 14th century when Rome was undergoing a lot of turmoil, the former Palais du Pope is a must-see.

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As far east into the mountains as you can go and still be in Provence, Nyons is known as “la ville du soleil” or the “sun city.” So, most days, you’ll be graced by its presence. It's also a great hiking destination for all levels.

Another great southern hiking location, Sisteron is the perfect mix of the Alps and Provence. The Durance River runs right through town, and the peaks tower above. It's great for outdoor lovers.

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Aix-en-Provence

Just north of Marseille is this picture-perfect southern France town. There isn't much in the way of sites, but if you're in the mood to walk around and shop leisurely at some of the best boutiques in France, Aix is your place.

A smaller city near Avignon, Nimes is most famous for its Roman arena and amphitheater, both of which are very well preserved.

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Orange is a fantastic town a few minutes from Avignon. It has one of the most impressive arenas from Roman times. It also has a thriving art community, and you'll have a great time browsing boutiques all around town.

Gorge de l'Ardèche

The Ardèche region is full of characteristic villages, great wineries, and breathtaking nature. And nowhere lives up to the last category, like the large gorge in the regional park. Visit in summer to swim and kayak in its clear waters, but be prepared to share it with plenty of other visitors!

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Montpellier

This student city in the center of southern France doesn't receive the attention it absolutely deserves! The streets are perfect for wandering, the markets and restaurants have some of the most affordable food in the region, and the beach is just an easy bike or tram ride away.

Often overlooked in favor of towns further east along the Mediterranean, Narbonne is perfect for those seeking a quieter destination. It's full of amazing art and archeology museums.

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Southwestern France's largest city is also very young. This means there are plenty of cafes and bars to occupy would-be travelers. Additionally, Toulouse is known as "La Vie en Rose" or "The Pink City," thanks to specifically colored bricks that make up the city center.

Carcassonne

Only 40 minutes by train from Toulouse, Carcassonne is one of the best-preserved medieval citadels. Perched on a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside, it offers some of the best views in Provence.

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Like much of southwestern France, Perpignan is influenced by Spain. The Gothic and Romanesque architecture and food are reminiscent of the neighboring country.

Luberon Regional Nature Park

If you want to hike on your southern France adventure, there's no better spot than Luberon Regional Nature Park! There are endless mountain trails and quaint towns, so you'll never be bored.

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Camargue Regional Nature Park

Just south of Arles, in the wetlands that spill out into the Mediterranean, is a biodiverse park that is a must-visit. Additionally, the Camargue Horse of the same name can be found running wild within the park.

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The best hidden gems to visit in summer tourist hot spots, from someone who's been to every European country

• Lee Abbamonte is a banker turned travel blogger who has visited every country in Europe.  
• He calls Spain, Italy, France, and Greece Europe's "Big Four" because of how popular they are.
• If you're visiting one of the "Big Four," here are Abbamonte's off-the-beaten-path tips. 

Traveling to Europe this summer? If so, we'll take a wild guess that you're visiting either Spain, Italy, France, or Greece.

These countries, nearly all of which are in the southern or Mediterranean regions, are what travel blogger Lee Abbamonte dubs Europe's "Big Four" because of their popularity among American tourists .

Abbamonte, 45, knows a thing or two about travel. He's not only visited every state in the US but every country in the world, as well as the North and South Poles.

Across the pond, Abbamonte prefers exploring underrated European countries , but he gets why people gravitate to the "Big Four."

"If you don't like it, you're the problem," he said. "They're all good."

Still, he's a fan of venturing off the beaten path.

Here, Abbamonte shares a few alternatives to popular tourist hot spots that anyone visiting Spain, Italy, France, and Greece should check out.

In Spain, forget Barcelona or Madrid and explore the cliffside city of Ronda

"Everyone knows Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Ibiza, Majorca," Abbamonte said. But not many Americans are familiar with the historic city of Ronda, perched atop a deep rocky gorge covered in lush greenery in the Andalucia region.

"If you're in Marbella, or if you're in Sevilla or Gibraltar, you can go out there and check out this awesome little town," Abbamonte said.

He also can't speak highly enough of northern Spain. One highlight is the seaside town of A Coruña, which is close to the Camino de Santiago, a network of pilgrimage routes leading to a holy site in the city of Santiago de Compostela.

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"I've done a lot of road trips around the north of Spain," Abbamonte said. "It's just an awesome little slice of Europe that nobody ever goes to."

If you're planning to island-hop in Greece, Abbamonte has recommendations that aren't Mykonos or Santorini

Mykonos and Santorini are two of the most well-known islands in Greece. Naturally, they're also two of the most overcrowded.

People familiar with Greece, like Abbamonte, often advise against visiting Mykonos and Santorini in favor of smaller islands that are quieter but just as beautiful, such as Aegina, Poros, and Hydra.

Abbamonte said Hydra, in particular, is worth seeing.

"There are no cars, and it's just goats and donkeys and walking. It's a very cool place to go."

On the mainland, he'd also advise stopping by Meteora in Thessaly, known for its "otherworldly" monasteries built atop towering rock formations.

In Italy, there are places just as beautiful as Lake Como and Florence that are far less crowded

According to Abbamonte, "With Italy, you can just throw a dart at a map, and you're in the coolest place you've ever been to."

Even so, some of Abbamonte's favorite spots in Italy don't get the love he believes they deserve. In the region of Tuscany for example, he says people tend to prioritize Florence, Pisa, or Siena.

All three are definitely worth seeing at least once, Abbamonte said, but he'd also recommend exploring smaller villages nestled between Tuscany's rolling hills, such as San Gimignano, Montalcino, and Montepulciano — all known for their endless vineyards and wines.

"Those are actually really awesome little villages and well worth checking out," he said.

Up in the north, Abbamonte said he'd skip Lake Como for any of the other Italian lakes close to the Dolomite mountains.

"It's my favorite place to road trip, probably, in all of Europe," he said.

Vacation like a local in France and visit Biarritz instead of Paris or Nice

Abbamonte cited Paris and Nice as examples of some of France's best-known vacation spots.

However, he said they are mostly hot spots for tourists rather than French locals, who tend to vacation in places "completely overlooked" by outsiders.

One of his favorites is Biarritz, a seaside hub known for its surfing culture in the Basque region of France. It's north of San Sebastian, a coastal Spanish city popular with tourists that is about a half-hour drive from the French border.

"Everyone knows San Sebastian now. Not a lot of people know Biarritz except for French people," he said. "But that's why I like it because it has a real, local kind of old money, Grace Kelly feel."

Other spots in France that he recommends checking out are the medieval town of Saint Paul De Vence on the French Riviera , beloved by generations of artists and poets, and the riverside city of Avignon in the southeast, one of his "favorite towns in all of Europe."

Correction: June 4, 2024 — An earlier version of this story misstated the location of A Coruña. It's in northwestern Spain, not in Spain's Basque region. The story also misstated the location of Monte Carlo, which is in Monaco, not France.

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• Main content

UEFA EURO 2024 fixtures and results: When and where are the matches?

Friday, June 21, 2024

Article summary

UEFA EURO 2024 kicked off on Friday 14 June and ends with the final in Berlin on Sunday 14 July. See dates, venues and schedule.

Article top media content

Article body

Check out the full UEFA EURO 2024 final tournament schedule below. All kick-off times are CEST.

When are the EURO 2024 matches?

Group stage.

14 Jun e Group A : Germany 5-1 Scotland ( Munich )

15 June A : Hungary 1-3 Switzerland ( Cologne ) B : Spain 3-0 Croatia ( Berlin ) B : Italy 2-1 Albania ( Dortmund )

16 June D : Poland 1-2 Netherlands ( Hamburg ) C : Slovenia 1-1 Denmark ( Stuttgart ) C : Serbia 0-1 England ( Gelsenkirchen )

17 June E : Romania 3-0 Ukraine ( Munich ) E : Belgium 0-1 Slovakia ( Frankfurt ) D : Austria 0-1 France ( Düsseldorf )

18 June F : Türkiye 3-1 Georgia ( Dortmund) F : Portugal 2-1 Czechia ( Leipzig )

19 June B : Croatia 2-2 Albania ( Hamburg ) A : Germany 2-0 Hungary ( Stuttgart ) A : Scotland 1-1 Switzerland ( Cologne )

20 June C : Slovenia 1-1 Serbia ( Munich ) C : Denmark 1-1 England ( Frankfurt ) B : Spain 1-0 Italy ( Gelsenkirchen )

21 June E : Slovakia 1-2 Ukraine ( Düsseldorf ) D : Poland 1-3 Austria ( Berlin ) D : Netherlands 0-0 France ( Leipzig )

22 June F : Georgia vs Czechia ( Hamburg , 15:00) F : Türkiye vs Portugal ( Dortmund , 18:00) E : Belgium vs Romania ( Cologne , 21:00)

Did you know...?

As part of UEFA's commitment to making EURO 2024 a reference event for sustainability in sport, venues and matches have been organised in regionalised clusters. This reduces the number of flights taken by teams by 75% compared to EURO 2016, as well as ensuring easier, sustainable transport between matches for supporters.

23 June A : Switzerland vs Germany ( Frankfurt , 21:00) A : Scotland vs Hungary ( Stuttgart , 21:00)

24 June B : Croatia vs Italy ( Leipzig , 21:00) B : Albania vs Spain ( Düsseldorf , 21:00)

25 June D : Netherlands vs Austria ( Berlin , 18:00) D : France vs Poland ( Dortmund , 18:00) C : England vs Slovenia ( Cologne , 21:00) C : Denmark vs Serbia ( Munich , 21:00)

26 June E : Slovakia vs Romania ( Frankfurt , 18:00) E : Ukraine vs Belgium ( Stuttgart , 18:00) F : Czechia vs Türkiye ( Hamburg , 21:00) F : Georgia vs Portugal ( Gelsenkirchen , 21:00)

Rest days on 27 and 28 June

When does the EURO 2024 round of 16 start?

29 June 38 2A vs 2B ( Berlin , 18:00) 37 1A vs 2C ( Dortmund , 21:00)

30 June 40 1C vs 3D/E/F ( Gelsenkirchen , 18:00) 39 1B vs 3A/D/E/F ( Cologne , 21:00)

1 July 42 2D vs 2E ( Düsseldorf , 18:00) 41 1F vs 3A/B/C ( Frankfurt , 21:00)

2 July 43 1E vs 3A/B/C/D ( Munich , 18:00) 44 1D vs 2F ( Leipzig , 21:00)

Rest days on 3 and 4 July

When do the EURO 2024 quarter-finals start?

5 July 45 W39 vs W37 ( Stuttgart , 18:00) 46 W41 vs W42 ( Hamburg , 21:00)

6 July 48 W40 vs W38 ( Düsseldorf , 18:00) 47 W43 vs W44 ( Berlin , 21:00)

Rest days on 7 and 8 July

When do the EURO 2024 semi-finals start?

9 July 49 W45 vs W46 ( Munich , 21:00)

10 July 50 W47 vs W48 ( Dortmund , 21:00)

Rest days on 11, 12 and 13 July

When is the EURO 2024 final?

14 July W49 vs W50 ( Berlin , 21:00)

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