Place in South of France to Visit This Year

Known For : Castle Hill of Nice Promenade des Anglais Marc Chagall National Museum

Located on the southeastern coast of France, Nice enjoys a privileged spot within the enchanting region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, on the French Riviera. It's a popular destination known for its stunning coastline, vibrant atmosphere, and rich history. The city highlights charming architecture and urban design, culture and scenery that draws in artists from all over the globe. Beyond its beaches, Nice offers cultural attractions like the Matisse museum and the Russian Cathedral, as well as the charming Old Nice (Vieux Nice).

Best Time: May - October

47 Nice Attractions

Known For : Croisette Promenade Palm Beach Palace of Festivals and Congresses of Cannes

Cannes is a city located on Cote d'Azur, or more commonly the French Riviera, known for its luxury shops and hotels and the distinctive annual Cannes Film Festival. The city is also known for its natural beauty in the form of stunning coastlines, sandy beaches, and a backdrop of the Esterel Mountains, making your trip worthwhile. It also serves as a gateway to the nearby Lérins Islands, particularly Île Sainte-Marguerite and Île Saint-Honorat. 

Best Time: Throughout the year

14 Cannes Attractions

Situated at the French Riviera, the picturesque town of Saint-Tropez is a glamorous resort town famous for its stunning beaches like Pampelonne and its harbor filled with luxurious yachts. Once a quiet fishing village, it now exudes a chic and vibrant energy, attracting celebrities and sun-seekers alike. Explore the colorful old quarter (La Ponche), relax on its world-renowned beaches, and soak in the lively atmosphere of its cafes and boutiques. 

Best Time: May - September

This university city, the birthplace of the legendary artist Paul Cezanne, is known as the "city of a thousand fountains." Aix en Provence boasts stunning Romanesque architecture and a vibrant atmosphere. Walking along Cours Mirabeau, exploring the local markets, and retracing Cezanne's life through the marked "C" route are just some of the highlights. Aix-en-Provence has a TGV train station with direct services from Paris (under 3 hours). There are also bus services from major French cities to Marseille.

Antibes is a stunning Mediterranean port city in the south of France. It is located between Nice and Cannes, making it an ideal base for exploring the French Riviera. With its beautiful old town, luxurious marina, and stunning beaches, Antibes is a must-visit destination for any traveler. The Vauban port is the largest marina in the Mediterranean, showcasing impressive yachts. It is a delightful stop between Nice and Cannes, easily reached by train or car.

Best Time: May - September

Gordes is a fairytale village in the Luberon valley that looks like it belongs in a storybook. The view of Gordes from the viewpoint on Rte de Cavaillon is breathtaking, offering a drone-like perspective of its stone buildings clustered on the hillside. While a quick glimpse is enough to fall in love with its beauty, Gordes is also home to luxurious stays and charming streets worth exploring. It's about an hour's drive from both Aix-en-Provence and Avignon.

In the Luberon valley, Roussillon stands out with its dramatic red cliffs, thanks to the world's largest deposit of ochre. This colorful village, with its buildings painted in shades of red, pink, and orange, feels like walking through a cartoon. Less crowded than some of its neighbors, Roussillon offers a calm atmosphere and the chance to walk the famous Ochre Trail (Le Sentier des Ocres) for stunning views of the unique landscape. It's approximately an hour's drive from Avignon and about 1.5 hours from Marseille.

Considered one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France," Lourmarin perfectly captures the charm of Provence. With its pretty cobblestone streets and romantic feel, it's easy to see why this Luberon village is a favorite. Must-dos include visiting the Château de Lourmarin, Provence's first Renaissance château. You can ttake the TGV high-speed train to Aix-en-Provence TGV station (about 3 hours) from Paris, then rent a car for the 45-minute drive to Lourmarin.

Saint Paul de Vence is a medieval village, perched within fortified walls, was once a haven for artists like Picasso and Chagall. Its cobblestone streets, art galleries, and charming shops exude creativity and history. Walking through its alleys feels like stepping back in time. Don't miss visiting the cemetery where Chagall is buried. The easiest way to reach Saint Paul de Vence is by car, about a 15-minute drive from the A8 motorway (exits 47 or 48). 

Villefranche-sur-Mer is a picturesque seaside town nestled in a deep bay near Nice. Its pastel-colored buildings cascade down to a charming harbor filled with fishing boats and elegant yachts. Enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant, wander through its narrow, shaded streets, and visit the stunning Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild nearby. It is easily accessible by car or train from Nice.

Èze is a medieval village clinging to a cliffside high above the Mediterranean. Its winding, narrow streets lead to the Jardin Exotique at the summit, where unparalleled panoramic views of the French Riviera await. The village itself, with its ancient stone buildings and charming boutiques, feels like stepping back in time. While driving offers convenience, the bus ride from Nice provides stunning coastal scenery along the way. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for exploring its steep and enchanting pathways.

Known as the final home of Pablo Picasso, Mougins retains an artistic spirit, with numerous galleries and workshops tucked away in its medieval lanes. Explore its flower-filled streets, enjoy a meal in one of its renowned restaurants, and discover the serene L’étang de Fontmerle with its lotus park. Located a short drive from Cannes, Mougins offers a peaceful retreat with easy access to the Riviera's attractions.

Menton is the last jewel of the French Riviera before the Italian border. Its colorful architecture, a delightful mix of French and Italian styles, creates a vibrant and picturesque cityscape against the azure sea. Stroll along the Promenade du Soleil, relax on Les Sables beach with its iconic backdrop, and explore the exotic Val Rahmeh-Menton Botanical Garden. For stunning views, a visit to the Cemetery of the Old Château is a must. Easily accessible by train from Nice, Menton offers a taste of both French and Italian Riviera cultures.

Bonnieux is a picturesque hilltop village in the heart of the Luberon. Its ancient stone houses climb the hillside, culminating in the Église Haute, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and countryside. Wander through its steep, winding streets, discover charming squares, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of rural Provence. Best explored by car, Bonnieux is a perfect base for discovering the Luberon's natural beauty and other charming villages.

Perched dramatically on a rocky spur, Ménerbes stands as another of France's officially "Most Beautiful Villages." Its well-preserved architecture, dating back centuries, and its commanding views of the surrounding landscape create a captivating scene. Explore its narrow streets, discover local art galleries, and perhaps even partake in the region's famous truffle hunting (in season). Like its Luberon neighbors, Ménerbes is best accessed by car, allowing you to fully appreciate the charm and tranquility of this elevated village.