From glamorous hotspots, medieval villages and hidden hilltop gems, the south of France is made for wandering, al fresco dining and possible celeb-spotting.
Whether you fancy overlooking turquoise waters or wandering through tranquil lavender fields, this pocket of France offers something for everyone. Here are nine destinations worth visiting:
Calanques National Park
These natural limestone cliffs create the wonder that is the Calanques National Park. With turquoise waters hugged by fine sandy beaches, this scenery looks just like a postcard. Calanques is a playground for nature lovers with the option to hike along the breathtaking views – the hardest to find are definitely well worth the view!
For sea sports, take a kayak out and ride the turquoise waters to find yourself in a crystal clear lagoon. This feels like pockets of peace compared to the bustling Riviera. Whether you’re after adventure or tranquility, the Calanques offer both and are marked as a highlight of the south of France.
Beziers
West of Montpellier, Beziers is one of France’s oldest cities holding a deep history. Embedded within the city are grand Romanesque cathedrals, continuous medieval streets and the impressive Canal du Midi – home to 91 locks. Visit during late spring for perfect temperatures and fewer crowds.
With a rich history, Beziers’ culture offers a walk back through time, with architecture bursting with authenticity. These streets make an ideal scenery to enjoy southern French culture, making Beziers a must-see.
Antibes
Antibes captures old-fashioned charm as it winds through the cobbled streets leading down to the seaside. Think al fresco dining in the square with a walk at dusk to overlook the Mediterranean to finish off the evening.
The town is home to the Chateau Grimaldi renovated to the Picasso Museum back in 2008 so come along and soak up some picturesque Picasso work. Antibes is filled with a relaxed coastal atmosphere and is only a 20-minute train to Nice, the heart of the French Riviera.
Cannes
Bathed in Riviera sunshine, Cannes brings the glamour to the Mediterranean. Spend the day lounging on Boulevard de la Croisette at the endless stream of beach clubs or if you are more history orientated, head to Le Suquet old town and let yourself get lost in the narrow streets.
For movie-lovers, head over in May to witness the Festival de Cannes in full swing – time your visit to catch a free screening at the Cinema de la Plage. Whether you’re splurging on luxury, catching rays on the golden beaches or getting a taste of the cinematic lifestyle, Cannes earns a well-deserved spot as a must-visit in the south of France.
Marseille
Marseille is named one of France’s most popular tourist destinations for a reason. The city is always abuzz with history and architecture – Marseille’s authenticity sets it apart from its Riviera neighbours.
Restaurants are bursting with flavour thanks to the traditional dish of bouillabaisse. Originally created by a Marseille fisherman, you can find and try this dish for yourself in almost every restaurant that serves Provencal cuisine.
Saint-Tropez
Saint-Tropez is a place where golden beaches meet flashy glam and timeless charm. What once was an old fishing village now holds stunning boutique shops and hotels.
The town invites you to explore its cobblestone streets before heading to the famous Pampelonne Beach to do some celeb spotting – you get the best of both worlds in St Tropez. Stunning views, world-class dining and a buzzing atmosphere, St Tropez balances authenticity with modern style.
Nice
With its sun-drenched promenade and buzzing Old Town, Nice is no doubt an icon of the Cote d’Azur. This scenic city is all easily accessible by train from its surroundings making it a hotspot in the south of France. Being a very walkable town, each attraction is located within a short distance of each other with plenty of pitstops for foodies to indulge in.
Party animals, how would you like to dance in a cave until the early hours? At Opera nightclub, the staff bring this fantasy to life. Nice is vibrant, picturesque and atmospheric.
Eze
Perched high above the Mediterranean, Eze is a historic village straight out of a fairytale. Submerge yourself in its labyrinth of cobbled lanes, escape away from the crowds and indulge in fresh seafood at local restaurants.
Located between St Jean Cap Ferrat and Monaco, Eze transports you back into the medieval era with flower-lined narrow alleys and arched stone walkways. The panoramic sea views promise an unforgettable visit. It’s intimate, enchanting and full of character.
Provence
If the entire south of France could be captured in one postcard, it would be of Provence. Wander through the iconic lavender fields in the height of summer, sip crisp rosé in sun-bathed vineyards and stroll through the romantic cobbled streets.
To witness beauty in all its glory visit Gordes, a hilltop specialty in the heart of Provence. Beaming sunsets, glistening aquamarine waters and an endless amount of chill – add Provence to your south of France bucket list.
Conclusion: Beautiful destinations in the south of France
From glamorous Riviera resorts to tranquil secluded villages, the south of France is a destination catering to all needs. Whether you’re fascinated by its storied past, sun-soaked coastlines or a lover of crisp, pale rosé wine, each destination offers its own unique slice of ‘la belle vie’.
With so many enchanting destinations, choosing where to begin can feel daunting – but the beauty of the south of France is that no matter where you start, every spot is a delight.
