Southern France Map Cities Travel Guide

Introduction

Southern France, also known as the French Riviera, is a beautiful region located along the Mediterranean coastline. With its picturesque towns, stunning beaches, and rich history, it is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. This travel guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Southern France, from the top attractions to the hidden gems.

Top Attractions

1. The French Riviera

The French Riviera is a stretch of coastline that includes some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From Nice to Cannes, you can find a variety of beaches to suit all tastes, including sandy beaches, rocky coves, and secluded bays. Some of the most popular beaches include Plage de la Garoupe, Plage de la Salis, and Plage de la Croisette.

2. The Palace of the Popes

The Palace of the Popes is a historical landmark located in Avignon. Built in the 14th century, it was the residence of the popes during the Avignon Papacy. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction.

3. The Calanques

The Calanques are a series of rocky inlets located between Marseille and Cassis. With their crystal-clear waters and stunning cliffs, they are a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.

Hidden Gems

1. Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a charming medieval village located in the hills above Nice. With its narrow streets, stone houses, and stunning views, it is a great place to explore and relax.

2. The Gorges du Verdon

The Gorges du Verdon is a natural wonder located in the Var department. With its turquoise waters and towering cliffs, it is a great place for hiking, kayaking, and swimming.

3. The Village of Eze

The Village of Eze is a picturesque hilltop village located between Nice and Monaco. With its narrow streets, stunning views, and beautiful gardens, it is a great place to spend a day exploring.

Food Scene

The food scene in Southern France is a mix of Mediterranean and Provençal cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, vegetables, and herbs. Some of the must-try dishes include bouillabaisse (a fish stew), ratatouille (a vegetable stew), and socca (a chickpea pancake). For dessert, try the tarte tropézienne (a cream-filled pastry) or the calisson (an almond paste candy).

Budget-Friendly Tips

One of the best ways to save money in Southern France is to travel off-season. The summer months are the most expensive, so consider visiting in the spring or fall. You can also save money by staying in a vacation rental or a budget hotel, cooking your own meals, and using public transportation.

Outdoor Adventures

Southern France is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and biking to kayaking and swimming, there are plenty of activities to choose from. Some of the best places to explore include the Camargue (a wetland area known for its flamingos and wild horses), the Mercantour National Park (home to a variety of wildlife and stunning landscapes), and the Luberon Mountains (a great place for hiking and cycling).

Family-Friendly Activities

Southern France is a great destination for families. Some of the best activities include visiting the Aquarium of the Sea in Montpellier, exploring the Parc des Miniatures in Nice, and taking a boat tour of the Calanques. You can also visit the Parc Phoenix in Nice, which has a variety of animals and plants, or the Jardin des Papillons in Saint-Laurent-du-Var, which has a butterfly garden.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

For those who want to get off the beaten path, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover in Southern France. Some of the best include the Roman ruins in Nîmes, the village of Les Baux-de-Provence, and the medieval town of Carcassonne. You can also explore the small fishing villages along the coast, or take a scenic drive through the countryside.

Natural Wonders

Southern France is home to a variety of natural wonders, from the Calanques to the Gorges du Verdon. Other must-see attractions include the Camargue wetlands, the lavender fields in Provence, and the Montagne Sainte-Victoire, which inspired many of Cézanne’s paintings.

Vibrant Nightlife

Southern France is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Some of the best places to go include the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, the Rue de la Paix in Cannes, and the Old Port in Marseille. You can also find a variety of live music venues and theaters throughout the region.

Local Markets

One of the best ways to experience the local culture in Southern France is to visit the markets. From the flower market in Nice to the antiques market in Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, there are plenty of markets to explore. You can also find a variety of food markets, where you can sample local cheeses, olives, and wines.

Beaches and Mountains

Southern France is a great destination for those who love both beaches and mountains. With its stunning coastline and rugged interior, it offers a variety of landscapes to explore. Some of the best beaches include Plage de la Garoupe, Plage de la Salis, and Plage de la Croisette, while some of the best mountains include the Mercantour National Park and the Luberon Mountains.

Cultural Immersion

To truly immerse yourself in the local culture, consider taking a cooking class, visiting a winery, or attending a local festival. Some of the best festivals include the Nice Jazz Festival, the Avignon Theater Festival, and the Cannes Film Festival.

Art and Music Scene

Southern France has a rich history of art and music, from the Impressionists to the Jazz Age. Some of the best places to explore include the Musée Matisse in Nice, the Musée Picasso in Antibes, and the Fondation Maeght in Saint-Paul-de-Vence. You can also find a variety of music festivals throughout the region, including the Nice Jazz Festival and the Festival de Musique de Menton.

Walking Tours

One of the best ways to explore the cities and towns of Southern France is on foot. There are plenty of walking tours to choose from, including guided tours of historic neighborhoods, food tours, and wine tours. Some of the best places to explore include the Old Town of Nice, the historic center of Avignon, and the medieval town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

Architectural Marvels

Southern France is home to a variety of architectural marvels, from the Roman ruins in Nîmes to the modernist buildings in Nice. Some of the best places to explore include the Palace of the Popes in Avignon, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and the Notre-Dame de la Garde in Marseille.

Historical Sites

Southern France has a rich history, with a variety of historical sites to explore. Some of the best include the Roman ruins in Nîmes, the Palace of the Popes in Avignon, and the medieval town of Carcassonne. You can also visit the sites of famous battles, such as the Battle of Boulou in the Pyrenees.

Biking Routes

For those who love cycling, Southern France offers a variety of biking routes to explore. Some of the best include the Route des Crêtes in the Calanques, the Route des Vins in Provence, and the Voie Verte du Littoral in Nice.

Wellness Retreats

Southern France is a great destination for those who want to relax and rejuvenate. There are plenty of wellness retreats to choose from, including yoga retreats, spa retreats, and meditation retreats. Some of the best places to stay include the Château de Berne in Provence, the Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort in Fayence, and the La Réserve Ramatuelle in Saint-Tropez.

Adventure Sports

Southern France is a great destination for adventure sports, from rock climbing to paragliding. Some of the best places to go include the Gorges du Verdon, the Camargue wetlands, and the Luberon Mountains. You can also try your hand at water sports, such as kayaking, windsurfing, and kiteboarding.