Best Places to Visit in the South of France
Admire sweeping lavender fields, explore medieval villages and sip pastis at glamorous beach clubs. Beautiful places in the South of France host holiday dreams – and postcard pictures don’t do them justice. Whether you love hopping between attractions or settling in to savour slow travel, it’s hard to go wrong when you’re choosing which slice of French paradise to visit.
Live it up with designer shopping and luxury hotels by the sparkling sea in St Tropez. Or pack your hiking boots to spot wildlife around Europe’s largest canyon. Love stepping back in time? Avignon’s historic centre is just one highlight to capture your heart and imagination. And if you’re a foodie, you’ll never want to leave the gourmet markets and bistros of Aix-en-Provence.
Ready to fall in love with Southern France? I’ve lived in the region for the last 8 years and have explored it extensively throughout that time. Here are my top picks of where to go!
The Hilltop Villages of the Luberon
Prepare for the fragrant and delicious allure of olive oil, lavender and honey across the Luberon region. This is the Provence you’ve dreamt about, where storybook hilltop villages join vineyards and castles on mountainous backdrops.
If you adore walking holidays, an excellent network of trails links villages, farms and forests. Prepare to stay for a while. It’s here that you’ll find the best places in the South of France to experience the simple pleasure of joie de vivre (joy of living).
One breathtaking joy is admiring the views of ancient villages such as Gordes as you approach the hilltop marvels. Wander narrow alleys to find artsy gifts and bakery treats, then visit the gorgeous lavender field at nearby Senanque Abbey.
Red cliffs, green pine trees and pastel-coloured houses create inspiring scenes around every twisting corner in Roussillon. See the Chateau du Castellet in Menerbes and the Marquis de Sade’s castle looming over Lacoste.
For antiques and art galleries amid grand mansions and charming waterwheels, set aside plenty of time to stroll around L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. Can’t wait for your next bite of local cheeses or olives? You’ll find village farmer’s markets across the region every day of the week.
Wherever you dine, sipping rosé is a given. But chateau estates with vineyards, generational winegrowers, and beautiful countryside views deserve a spot at the top of your itinerary.
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence boasts a deep connection to Vincent van Gogh, and many of his works revolve around the beauty on display in the Alpilles Regional Natural Park. Follow the Van Gogh Trail to Saint-Paul de Mausole, a monastery converted into a psychiatric hospital where the artist admitted himself and completed hundreds of artworks. You’ll see a reconstruction of his room and lush gardens with flowers featured in his paintings.
In town, soak up the ambience in Place Favier and sink into the slow pace with coffee and croissants at gorgeous cafes. Among fountains and shady trees providing dappled sunlight, grand Renaissance mansions host fascinating museums.
Pop into the Musee des Alpilles to delve into the prophecies of Nostradamus, who was born in St Remy. The Hotel de Sade, an ancient thermal bath complex, houses Roman remnants from the nearby Glanum archaeological site.
Once you’ve seen the ruins of Glanum’s baths and the forum, continue on a short drive to Les Baux-de-Provence. High atop a rocky mountain, the small village is home to the famous Carrières des Lumières.
The former limestone quarry features revolving light and sound shows with artistic masterpieces projected onto gigantic walls and pillars. If you’ve got some energy to burn, set out on a marked hiking trail between the two villages.
Lavender Fields of Provence
You’ve seen pictures of the purple fields of Provence lavender rolling into the horizon, dotted with small cottages or trees, and glowing with summer sunsets. To skip through the fragrant rows of blooms, plan your trip from mid-June to late-July.
And if you want that iconic shot, make a road trip beeline for the Valensole Plateau and the Route de Manosque. Simply pull over to explore the fields lining the road.
Related Reading: Provence Lavender Season (When is the best time to visit)
It’s home to Lavandes Angelvin, a distillery with lots of scented goodies to buy and tours explaining harvesting and production.
You can’t miss the Terraroma lavender field, with a sign announcing its name in the middle of it. At Les Grandes Marges estate, indulge in sensory treats among almond trees, olive groves, vineyards and lavender fields, with tastings and essential oil massages.
Along with the beautiful lavender field at Senanque Abbey, the Luberon Valley is dotted with lovely blooms too. Visit Les Agnels Distillery for an aromatic tour.
You’ll spot purple wonderlands while approaching the medieval village of Sault. Stop at La Ferme aux Lavandes for flower syrups and lavender sachets, then hire a bike to explore the surrounding fields.
Verdon Gorge
Ready for thrilling outdoor adventures? Soaring limestone cliffs and stunning turquoise water frame the hills at the Gorges du Verdon in the heart of Provence. The Verdon Regional Natural Park is a hiking dream, with trails crossing clifftops and lush, green hills.
From abseiling with the kids to canyoning and vertical challenges for professionals, climbing opportunities abound. If you prefer two wheels, get off-road on mountain biking trails or join a cycling tour.
For watery fun, get your heart pumping with whitewater rafting on the Verdon River. Swim along the banks of Sainte-Croix Lake or glide across the dazzling, calm water through majestic cliffs on a kayaking tour.
You can also hire pedal and electric boats, along with kayaks and stand-up paddle boards (SUP).
It’s not all about the outdoors though, with charming villages nearby for history fixes. Resting in the hills near the Verdon Gorge, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie features the tiny Chapel of Notre Dame de Beauvoir tucked between towering cliffs, and the Romanesque Church of Our Lady of the Assumption.
Stroll the medieval laneways of Moustiers, known for its unique faïence pottery. Along the way, expect to stumble on plenty of shops for mouthwatering local produce to take with you, including wines, truffles, tapenades and olive oil.
Saint Tropez
Saint Tropez glitters with visiting movie stars, designer shops and superyachts bobbing in the harbour. In summer, the star of the French Riviera shines bright as jet-setters flock to stay at luxury villas and sip champagne at glitzy beach clubs.
To soak up the sun with celebs, lounge under an umbrella or launch into water sports at Pampelonne Beach. Swim on a backdrop of historical pastel-hued houses at tiny Plage de la Glaye or Plage de la Ponche. Travelling with the kids? Spread out on the white sands of Bouillabaisse and splash in the shallow water.
Related Reading: Best Beaches in St-Tropez and Surrounds
Beyond the sparkling beach scene, the old town is a captivating blend of cobbled laneways and designer boutiques. Watch pétanque players in the main square, Place des Lices, where twice-weekly market stalls spill with cheeses, fresh produce and bric-a-brac. Nearby, La Maison des Papillons is worth a visit to see exquisite butterfly collections and paintings.
Perched above the town, the 17th-century fortress is the spot for sweeping views. Delve into the dungeons, now home to the Maritime History Museum with interactive displays highlighting the lives of seafarers. And to see the impact St Tropez had on legendary artists, pop into the Annonciade Museum housed in a 16th-century chapel.
Menton
Lemon tarts and citrus liqueurs adorn the shops of artisan producers along Menton’s Route du Citron. The town’s famous lemons take centre stage on a backdrop that’s attracted tourists since aristocrats flocked to its sunny beaches in the late 1800s.
From the sandy stretch of Plage de Sablettes, you’ll admire grand Baroque buildings while taking a dip in the Mediterranean right on the Italian border.
Stroll along the palm tree-decorated promenade with restaurants and people making the most of the lively atmosphere. Stepping into the old town’s maze of narrow streets is like entering a medieval fairytale.
Colourful, crumbling facades with window shutters line steep streets that wind up to an atmospheric cemetery and the Basilica of Saint-Michel. After gawking at the clock tower and steeple, pop inside to see a spectacular ceiling mural.
From one lush scene to another, Menton’s gardens are a celebration of renowned landscaping and exotic plants. Find serenity among terraced gardens, pools and fountains at Serre de la Madone. Jardin Botanique Val-Rahmeh Menton is an ornamental wonder of themed gardens and citrus orchards.
If you’re suddenly dreaming of citrus-flavoured everything, visit in February for the Menton Lemon Festival.
Èze
Clinging to a mountainside overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Èze characterises medieval charm. It’s enough to wander the pedestrian-only cobbled streets with wrought-iron streetlamps and pastel shutters on ancient stone houses.
As you explore, enchanting shops tempt you inside for quirky souvenirs, homewares and artworks. Set aside plenty of time for Galimard, with a museum and perfumery tours to go with heavenly-scented products to take home.
Keep the fragrant theme going among the gorgeous gardens of Le Jardin Exotique. Built on the ruins of castle walls, pathways lead to stunning succulents and colourful blooms with views of the Mediterranean from the cliff’s edge.
More gardens await at the 18th-century Eglise Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption. Discover the town’s oldest building at the 14th-century Chapelle de la Sainte Croix.
Ready for a workout with a dip in the sea as your reward? In fact, it’s reward enough to wander the scenic Nietzsche Trail, named after the famous philosopher inspired by the region. It’s five kilometres downhill to Eze-sur-Mer Beach, where you can dive right into the calm water before a seafood feast or a nap on a beach club sunbed.
If you’re visiting on a day trip from Nice, this is where you can take the train back to base.
Markets of Aix-en-Provence
For foodies and shopaholics, Aix-en-Provence is at the top of the South of France wish list. Between gallery and museum visits, you’ll struggle to choose between an abundance of cafes and gourmet food shops. But it’s the town’s markets that’ll really capture your heart (and empty your wallet), bursting with everything from flowers to antiques and scrumptious treats.
Feast your eyes on the rich colours of strawberries, plums, peaches and tomatoes at the daily food market in Place Richelme. Buy goat’s cheese and honey, inhale the scent of herbs and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.
In the heart of the city, Place de l’Hotel de Ville hosts the impressive Town Hall and an explosion of colour with the flower market.
Adorable potted plants, piles of roses and bunches of peonies also set the scene for memorable photos of authentic French market days.
But if you love hunting for vintage books or local linens, visit on Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday. From the Cours Mirabeau boulevard to Place du Verdun and beyond, themed areas help you find your favourite treasures.
Pick up handmade pottery and lavender soap or tablecloths, scarves and, of course, iconic French berets. If you visit at Christmas, check the dates for log cabin markets filled with festive goodies.
Old Town of Avignon
One of the best cities to visit in the South of France for an unforgettable culture and history fix, Avignon is a medieval jewel with Michelin-starred chefs, riverside walks and a thriving arts scene. It’s known as the City of the Popes and the most famous attraction of the walled historic centre is the majestic Pope’s Palace.
Admire the 14th-century architecture with your croissant from a cafe outside. Then, take an inside tour with a virtual reality histopad highlighting the pomp and splendour of the past.
In the former cardinal’s palace, discover medieval Italian sculptures and paintings in the Petit Palais Museum.
You’ll likely find artistic inspiration with a walk up to the Rocher des Doms garden for views over the Medieval town and the Rhone River Valley. Spot the arches of the ruined – and very photogenic – St. Benezet Bridge.
Perhaps the best thing to do, however, is to lose yourself in the cobbled lanes and back streets. Follow your nose to pastry shops, people-watch in atmospheric squares and photograph ancient archways.
Wait until you’re really hungry to enter Les Halles market hall. With fresh bread, pastries, cheeses, olives, seafood, and wine among stalls and cheerful cafes, most visitors return for seconds and thirds.
Antibes
You might fall in love at first sight with the flower-scented, cobbled streets of Antibes. The spellbinding town has certainly captured the hearts of artists and writers across history, including F. Scott Fitzgerald, Picasso and Graham Greene.
Along with old-world charm, gleaming superyachts add glitz at one of Europe’s largest marinas, Port Vauban.
There’s lots to do, but you’re never far from putting your feet in the sand and floating in the calm water at Plage de la Gravette. Best of all, the beach is framed by medieval ramparts. It’s easy to spend all day at Plage du Ponteil, where you’ll step from white sand to a promenade and restaurants.
Beyond the coast, wear hiking boots for stunning mountain trails to beautiful villages in the countryside.
Set out on the Art Trail to admire landscapes that inspired the masters and visit the Picasso Museum for a glimpse of works including The Joy of Living. Speaking of which, it’s a joy to discover patisseries, cute gift shops and cafe terraces in pretty squares while strolling around the old town.
See Cathedral Notre Dame on your way to local market stalls for delicious gourmet bites. Once the sun goes down, the party atmosphere picks up at restaurants and wine bars.
Cassis
The petite town of Cassis offers a more laid-back vibe than glitzy rivals such as St Tropez. But its pastel-coloured buildings, limestone cliffs and hidden coves are just as dazzling. Wedged between Cap Canaille and the Calanques Natural Park, it’s an ideal base for outdoor adventures on unforgettable backdrops.
Put your hiking boots on for scenic treks to the park’s beautiful beaches, including the travel magazine favourite of Calanque d’En Vau with turquoise water framed by soaring cliffs.
Cool down without the workout at Plage de la Grande Mer in town, a sparkling, sheltered bay with a shingle beach.
When it’s time for ice cream, head to the cafes lining the picturesque port with views of traditional boats. Or hit the markets for the catch of the day and picnic goodies, while popping in and out of charming boutiques for gifts.
Delve into history at the 17th-century town hall, home to a medieval kitchen viewed from a glass floor. For art lovers, the Mediterranean Museum of Art and Popular Traditions is a treat with fine art collections including works from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Carcassonne
Walk straight into a medieval fantasy of ramparts and pointed turrets in Carcassonne, where storybook scenes come true in ancient La Cite. Fans of Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves will recognise it, but this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the real deal, where a fortified settlement has existed since the pre-Roman era.
A guided tour of Chateau Comtal immerses you in medieval magic, with 52 towers and views from the castle walls over the River Aude to the countryside.
The enchantment continues while you’re exploring the cobbled streets. For example, the rose windows of the Romanesque-Gothic Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus draw gasps from visitors. Wandering delivers ancient wells, museums and tempting restaurants in atmospheric squares.
After seeing the upper town, walk across Pont Vieux to the lower town, La Bastide Saint-Louis. Locals bustle about in postcard scenes of colourful old mansions and cafe terraces with fountain views.
A highlight is Square Gambetta with flower-strewn pathways, near the spectacular Museum of Fine Arts.
Camargue & Arles
Thousands of pink flamingos and beloved herds of freely-grazing, white Camargue horses create a wildlife lover’s paradise in this stunning region.
The Camargue’s wild wetlands house hundreds of bird species and you’ll see them easily at Parc Ornithologique de Pont de Gau. Get your binoculars ready to spot them on a walking tour around salt marshes, ponds and reed beds.
For a truly spectacular sight, visit in winter when the flamingos showcase their courtship rituals.
The ranch lands of the Rhone delta are just as fascinating, as they’re home to locals tending roaming cattle and Spanish gypsy culture called gitano. You’ll find numerous tours to help you explore, including farm visits and guided hikes.
Arles is a gorgeous base to stay for a while. Vincent van Gogh produced hundreds of paintings in the city of golden stone (and it’s where he famously hacked off his ear).
Stroll the riverbanks lined with grand mansions, see the Roman amphitheatre and delve into modern art at LUMA Arles.
Cannes
Set out for a lazy stroll along La Croisette and you’ll soon see why Cannes is one of the most popular destinations in the South of France.
Sandy beaches and fancy hotels line the walkway, where buzzing summer crowds mingle among the palm trees. Choose glamour at private beaches and clubs or chill out with families and ice creams at Plage du Midi.
For a bird’s eye view, visit Notre-Dame d’Esperance Church in Le Suquet (the old town). On your way up the hill, discover brilliant street art murals in cobblestone laneways and settle in at atmospheric bistros.
It’s a must to get a photo with Palais de Festivals, the famous venue of the Cannes Film Festival.
Then, deck yourself out like a movie star with a shopping spree on Rue d’Antibes. If you prefer pastries and truffles, fill your basket at Forville Market.
When the sun goes down, the nightlife is legendary. Start with apero and views of the yachts at Le Vieux Port and wear your dancing shoes for glitzy nightclubs.
St Jean Cap Ferrat
Known as one of the world’s most expensive residential locations, St Jean Cap Ferrat is far from its fishing village beginnings.
But the seaside town isn’t as flamboyant as its glittering Côte d’Azur neighbours. Life here is more about taking long walks and lingering over lunch at waterfront restaurants.
Choose from a range of scenic coastal trails, including the Cap-Ferrat circuit and the Pointe Saint-Hospice route through maritime pine forests.
It’s always a good time for a stroll along the Maurice Rouvier promenade, an elevated pathway with sweeping views on your way to the next town of Beaulieu-sur-Mer.
Visit Villa Ephrussi, built for Baroness Beatrice de Rothschild, for a taste of pure opulence among themed gardens and art collections. The evocative maritime cemetery at the Saint-Hospice Chapel is a top spot for panoramic photos.
Time for a swim? You’re never far from Cros Dei Pin beach, a family-friendly stretch with playgrounds and snack bars. Or head to the more exclusive Paloma Beach to mingle with millionaires.
Saint Paul de Vence
You’ll likely frame a picture of St Paul de Vence from a distance. It’s perched on a hill with a jumble of ancient buildings in a scene that resembles a medieval fantasy.
Not surprisingly, it’s an artistic hub and one that’s attracted famous faces across decades. The main attraction here is the village itself, where art studios and restaurants dot laneways of vine-clad stone.
Follow the ramparts for stunning views across olive trees and vineyards to the Mediterranean. At the cemetery, look for the final resting place of artist Marc Chagall beneath shady cypress trees.
To walk in the footsteps of Matisse, Picasso and Chagall, check out La Colombe d’Or hotel, where the artists once left paintings in exchange for lodging.
As you explore, look out for interpretation panels describing memorable events and heritage sites. One of the most photographed is Place de la Grande Fontaine in the heart of town, once the market square with a vaulted washhouse.
For cute-as-a-button boutiques and craft shops, browse along Rue Grande.
You’ll step into the scenes that inspired famous paintings by some of the world’s greatest artists in the South of France. From rolling lavender fields to storybook castles and dreamy beaches, it’s easy to choose a new scene every day – although I’d suggest slowing down and savouring the essence of this magical region of France.
