The Ultimate South of France Itinerary (7–10 Days): Best Route Without Paris

Planning a trip to the South of France, but want to skip Paris? Honestly smart move, because this region has so much to offer. There are sparkling coastlines, yes, but also really charming inland towns, and somehow it all just makes it easy to put together a France itinerary no Paris, not even a quick stop. 

We’re talking about 7 to 10 days, packed with sunshine, seriously good meals, and sights that are genuinely beautiful. This south of France itinerary is built so you can get a real feel for the area, like an authentic taste not a rushed checklist. So it’s a France itinerary centered on the best spots, without the hassle of a Paris stopover. Get ready for that full on vacation vibe, you know the one.

Key Takeaways

• The South of France offers a rich travel experience without needing to visit Paris, perfect for a 7-10 day trip.
• Nice is a great starting point, known for its vibrant Old Town, markets, and coastal beauty.
• Villefranche-sur-Mer provides a charming, slightly quieter base with easy access to other Riviera spots.
• Exploring inland Provence offers a different pace, focusing on landscapes, local life, and historical towns.
• Coastal gems like Cap D’Ail and Antibes, along with beaches like Plage Mala, add variety and stunning scenery to your south of France itinerary.
  

• Nice

Nice is a place that really surprised me. I’d heard it was pretty, but honestly it’s got this vibrant energy, sort of hard to put into words until you are actually there. It feels like a big city, but also in a way kind of cozy, like everyone kinda knows each other. Which is, yeah, a really nice touch. And the Promenade des Anglais is an absolute must-see. It’s this long, beautiful walkway, right along the Mediterranean Sea. I ended up spending hours just strolling, doing that people looking thing, and kind of soaking everything up.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, I’d recommend checking out the area between the train station and the coast, especially around Avenue Jean Médecin. The Riquier district, which is behind the port, is also a solid choice because it’s close to the old convention center.

Here are a few things I really enjoyed doing:

• Wander through Vieux Nice (Old Town): Get lost in the narrow streets, pop into little shops, and just absorb the atmosphere. It feels like stepping back in time.
• Visit the Marché aux Fleurs (Flower Market): Even if you’re not buying anything, the colors and smells are amazing. It’s a great spot to grab a quick bite too.
• Hike up Castle Hill (Colline du Château): The views from the top are incredible. You can see the whole Baie des Anges and the city spread out below. There’s a waterfall up there too, which is a nice bonus.
• Try Socca: This chickpea pancake is a local specialty, and you can find it at places like Chez Thérésa. It’s simple but so good.

I found that one day in Nice kinda barely scratches the surface, you know. If you have the time, absolutely try adding another day too. There is just too much stuff to see and handle, from art museums to wandering through distinct neighborhoods, like you’ll keep bumping into new corners that feel kinda endless.

For dinner, the port area has some really trendy spots, but the old town is also packed with great restaurants and bars. I had a fantastic meal at a place called La Route du Miam – it’s tiny, run by a couple, and serves incredible food, but you really need to book ahead.

• Villefranche-sur-Mer

Villefranche-sur-Mer is one of those places that just stops you in your tracks, it kind of does that thing where you forget to breathe for a second. It’s a small harbor town sort of tucked between Nice and Monaco, and honestly it feels like you’re stepping into a postcard… like really. I remember the first time I saw it, the colorful buildings kind of spill downward to the impossibly blue water, the fishing boats bobbing gently, like they have all the time in the world. It’s just… serene.

The best way to experience Villefranche is to just slow down. Forget rushing from one sight to another. This is a place for lingering. My favorite morning ritual was grabbing a coffee and a pastry from that local spot, like BAKARO, and then kind of just watching the town wake up. The waterfront is the heart of it all. You could spend hours there, sitting around quietly maybe with a leisurely lunch somewhere like Olivula and honestly it feels very different. It’s the sort of spot where you get the sense you’ve truly escaped for a bit, even if you didn’t go far.

So for a beach day, Plage des Marinieres is like the go-to place. It is a pebble beach, but the water looks crystal clear, almost unreal. If you feel like switching it up, just a short Uber ride away there’s Plage de Passable. That one is smaller and more intimate, kinda cozy, with a really nice vibe. We rented a daybed there and just kind of sat there soaking in the sun. It was total bliss, honestly.

Where to Stay

Staying right in Villefranche is limited, so booking ahead is a pretty solid idea. I’ve heard a lot of good things about the Welcome Hotel for a boutique type experience, and Hotel De La Darse if you want something a bit calmer. If you’re after a more luxurious vibe, Hôtel le Provencal French Riviera is often suggested. Quite a few folks also decide to sleep over in nearby Nice, because there are way more hotels there, like stylish design places, or seafront retreats. It’s around a six minute train ride away, so day trips feel effortless.

Don’t Miss:

• Wander the Old Town: Get lost in the narrow, winding streets. It’s incredibly picturesque.
• Visit the Citadel: This 16th-century fortress offers great views over the bay.
• Enjoy the Waterfront: Simply sit, people-watch, and soak in the atmosphere.

On Wednesdays and Saturdays there’s this weekly market not far from Jardin François Binon, and honestly it feels like a real treat. It’s a small climb, more like a gentle hike than anything, but still you get that genuine local vibe without the super, overwhelming crowds you run into elsewhere. You can stop in to grab local produce or little handcrafted things, you know the sort of odds and ends that make it feel real.

If you’re seeking a kind of delightful, not too hurried alternative to some of the larger Riviera towns, Villefranche-sur-Mer is absolutely worth your time. It’s the sort of place that lingers in your head, even after you’ve already gone. If you want more notions for wandering around this lovely region, take a look at France beyond Paris in May.

• Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence was honestly a real treat. I mean it’s a city that somehow feels grand but also super relaxed, like you could just… stay a few days without realizing it, sort of soaking everything in. I still remember wandering down Cours Mirabeau, that wide, tree lined avenue which is the heart of the city. There are these beautiful fountains, and the cafes, they sort of spill out onto the sidewalks, and it’s great for people watching with a coffee, or later on, a glass of rosé.

The city is pretty known for its link to Paul Cézanne, and honestly you can really feel his presence there. We went into his studio, it is kept the way he left it, sort of like stepping back, in time though not fully. It’s not a vast museum but one that still provides a deep, almost silent, impression of his daily living and work. It’s strange but very heartwarming to feel so close through this space, even with just brief time allowed.

Beyond Cézanne, Aix has this lovely old town with narrow, winding streets, charming squares, and more fountains than you can count. It’s the kind of place where getting lost is part of the fun. We kind of stumbled upon a whole bunch of little artisan shops and bakeries, and honestly it was everywhere, selling the most amazing calissons, that local almond shaped sweet, you know. Like it was really something.

Here are a few things I really enjoyed:

• Cours Mirabeau: Just stroll, sit, and enjoy the atmosphere. The Rotonde fountain at one end is quite something.
• Old Town (Vieil Aix): Explore the maze of streets, discover hidden courtyards, and pop into the many small boutiques.
• Cézanne’s Studio (Atelier de Cézanne): A must-see for art lovers, offering a glimpse into the artist’s creative space.
• Local Markets: If you can, visit one of the markets. They’re vibrant and full of local produce, cheeses, and crafts.

Where to Stay:

Aix-en-Provence offers a number of excellent places to stay for everyone’s taste and pocket. You just don’t want to miss out on hotels or apartments that are literally in the heart of the old town where you can just enjoy strolling around the place every time you leave the room. Being closer to Cours Mirabeau also is quite an advantage because in such a city, it is quite a bit of time on your feet to move around if you are not near your destination. 

If you’re into a little peace from the crowds and noise you can find places a bit out of town. You may need your car quite regularly or be more a user of public transport. We had a little boutique hotel quite next to a major square and it was very comfortable for us. It was close to everything but also sort of calm, so yeah, perfect really.

Aix-en-Provence kind of, really captures the whole essence of Provence. It’s sophisticated but also down to earth somehow, with a vivid cultural scene and a slow, relaxed rhythm of living that makes you feel like you should linger a bit more.

• Provence

Provence is the South of France everyone refers to. It’s basically a big region. Honestly, even if you were to do nothing else, you still wouldn’t be able to cover every corner and alley. My experience has taught me that by settling at just a few places, life and things in general become super easy and relaxed. Rather than getting on the road every day and taking it all with you, just a couple of towns were chosen by me and I did day excursions from there. It cut down a ton of time and mental hassle.

For this itinerary, I’d suggest thinking about Provence as a place for charming villages and beautiful countryside. It’s a little different compared to the coast, more rolling hills, vineyards, and stone buildings. What really stands out about the area of Provence are its little towns and the atmosphere of the times gone by.

Here are a few places that really stood out to me:

• Les Baux-de-Provence: This place is perched on a hill and feels like it’s straight out of a history book. The views from up there are incredible. You can wander through the old streets and imagine what life was like centuries ago. There’s also a fortress you can explore.
• Gordes: Another hilltop village, Gordes is famous for its beauty. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to just sit at a cafe and soak it all in. The cobblestone streets are lovely, and the views over the Luberon valley are stunning.
• Saint-Paul-de-Vence: This one is a bit closer to the coast but still has that classic Provençal feel. It’s known for its art galleries, so if you like art, you’ll be in heaven. It’s a great place to just get lost in the narrow lanes.

Where to Stay in Provence:

I found that using a place like Salon-de-Provence as a home base worked really well, it just felt practical. It’s nicely placed between bigger cities like Avignon and Marseille, so it’s fairly easy to reach lots of other spots. I ended up staying at the Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix, which sits inside an old abbey, kind of atmospheric, and it also had parking too, which is always a plus I mean really.

The best time to visit Provence really depends on what you are trying to get out of it. Spring (March, May) and fall are pretty good, because the weather stays pleasant, and honestly there are fewer people around. Summer looks amazing with the lavender fields everywhere, but it is also peak tourist season, so it can get busy. Winter is calmer too, and it may cost less, even if some areas feel a bit slower.

When planning your trip, remember that Provence is kind of spread out. Having a car is almost a must if you want to look around the smaller villages and the whole countryside properly, like not just from the highway. Public transport can take you between the main towns, but reaching those quiet little hidden gems is way easier with your own wheels or something similar, honestly.

• Cap D’Ail

Cap D’Ail was, kind of, a really nice surprise for me on my last trip. It’s this lovely little town that is just on the border of Monaco. In truth, being here after all the excitement of the well-known city must have been quite a relief to take in the fresh air. Besides, I had decided to stay here for my last couple of days as well and, to tell you the truth, it was definitely a good move. The scenery was incredible, like genuinely, and it was super convenient for popping over to Monaco or wandering around the coast.

This is kinda the perfect spot if you want to feel the Riviera without all the constant crowds, and also without the hefty price tags. There’s this nice relaxed vibe about it that is hard to find anywhere else. And you know, moving around is super easy, you can even walk over to Monte Carlo in about 40 minutes, if you feel like it.

When I was there, I ended up spending a ton of time just wandering around, kind of feeling like a local. One of those absolute musts is the Sentier du Littoral. It’s a coastal path that’s pretty stunning, with turquoise water on one side, and on the other, dramatic cliffs, like straight out of a postcard or something. And it actually carries you all the way toward Monaco, so you’re getting these incredible views the whole way, not just in one little section. Don’t forget your camera!

Here are a few things I really enjoyed:

• Walk the Sentier du Littoral: This coastal path offers breathtaking views and connects you to Monaco.
• Relax at Plage Mala or Plage Marquet: These beaches are beautiful and a bit quieter than some others along the coast.
• Enjoy fresh seafood: There are some fantastic restaurants right by the water. I particularly liked A’TREGO for a nice meal with a view.

Cap D’Ail offers a more laid-back experience of the French Riviera, blending natural beauty with easy access to the glamour of Monaco. It’s a place where you can truly unwind and soak in the coastal charm.

Where to Stay:

While there aren’t a ton of large hotels, you can find some great apartment rentals. I stayed in a place in the Costa Plana building, which had amazing views and parking, plus it was super close to Monaco and the beach. It’s a good option if you’re looking for something comfortable with a view, rather than a super fancy hotel. You can often find these through various rental agencies online. For flights to the region, checking out a site like Aviasales can help you find good deals.

• Marseille

Marseille. Wow, what a city. It’s got this raw energy that’s totally different from the polished Riviera towns. I had the first visit and honestly it was quite uncertain. I was totally new. But eventually, I developed a deep affection for this city in the South of France and it became my very favorite! A major port, a city with a lot going on and at the same time history and variety, you just can’t walk through without feeling it.

The Vieux Port (Old Port) is like, really the heart of everything. It’s always buzzing with activity, crowded with fishing boats, yachts, and people, just kind of soaking up the whole atmosphere, you know. I ended up spending hours watching the world pass, from a café terrace, sipping on a pastis. And the seafood? Honestly it’s unbelievable. You have to try the bouillabaisse too, that famous fish stew. Sure it costs a bit, maybe a splurge or whatever, but it feels 100% worth it for the genuine experience.

Beyond the dock, there’s so much to dig up. I really enjoyed wandering through those skinny streets in Le Panier, the oldest district. It has a kind of maze-meets cozy charm with bright buildings and small craft workshops, like it’s a whole separate universe. Honestly it feels a world away from the noisy, clatter-busy port area.

You really can’t miss Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde for incredible views, it’s up on a hill with this commanding look over the whole city, plus the sea too. The climb is kind of a workout honestly, but once you get there the panoramic views feel wildly worth it, just stunning. Like, seriously you can see for miles and miles, it’s almost unreal.

Marseille has a reputation, and if i’m being honest it can feel a little gritty in certain spots. but yeah that kind of messiness is part of its charm. It seems real, well lived, and somehow super vibrant too. so don’t let any pre ideas mess you up before you actually go and feel the place, because it has this very particular sort of vibe and character, you really need to experience it.

If you have time, take a boat trip out to the Calanques National Park. These are really stunning limestone cliffs, with that turquoise water—sort of like fjords, but in the Mediterranean. It’s a great escape from the city heat, and it also has a seriously beautiful panorama. You can do a hike there or just swim around, it feels kind of serene.

Where to Stay:

• Vieux Port Area: This is the most convenient and lively spot. You’ll find plenty of hotels and apartments with great views and easy access to restaurants and transport.
• Le Panier: For a more bohemian vibe, staying in Le Panier puts you right in the historic heart of the city. It’s charming but can be a bit harder to get around with luggage.
• Endoume/Saint-Victor: These neighborhoods offer a slightly more local feel, often with beautiful sea views and a bit more tranquility, but you’ll likely need to rely on public transport or taxis to get to the main attractions.

• Plage Mala

If you are looking for a really special seaside moment close to Cap d’Ail, Plage Mala is the place. It is not exactly easy to reach, so maybe that’s why it feels so hidden and lovely. Getting there means a small trek, kind of a hassle at first, but it is totally worth the time spent, and yeah, it pays off.

When I was there, I got this feeling, kinda like wow, the whole place is really dramatic. The shoreline is tucked in a cove, and there are these tall cliff faces all around it. It just gives off that hidden gem vibe, like not many people know about it or something. You’ll likely park in Cap d’Ail and then follow signs for the beach. Be prepared for a descent – there are quite a few steps, so comfortable shoes are a good idea, especially on the way back up!

Once you’re down there, you have a couple of options. There are usually a couple of beach clubs where you can rent loungers and enjoy some service. If you’re on a tighter budget or prefer your own space, there’s a public section of the beach too. I packed a picnic, which was perfect for enjoying the views.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Access: Be ready for a significant number of stairs. It’s a workout on the way down and even more so on the way up!
• Amenities: Beach clubs offer food, drinks, and loungers (for a fee). The public area is more basic.
• Best time to visit: Go earlier in the day, especially during peak season, to secure a good spot and avoid the biggest crowds.

At Plage Mala, the water is often really clear and has this nice, sort of deep blue shade. It’s a great spot for a swim and just to let yourself soak up the Riviera mood, without feeling that overwhelming crowd thing you might run into elsewhere.

Where to Stay:

While Plage Mala itself doesn’t really offer any accommodation, staying around Cap d’Ail is likely your best bet. It’s a charming town, with a more relaxed feeling than some nearby places and honestly it’s pretty easy to settle in. There you can spot boutique hotels, plus vacation rentals too. If you’d rather change things up, Nice is also only a short drive or a train ride away. It gives you a wider selection of hotels, so it can be a nicer base if you want a bigger city around you.

• Avignon

Avignon is a city that really surprised me. I went in expecting just another pretty Provençal town, but it’s got this incredible historical weight to it, mostly thanks to the Palais des Papes. Seriously, this place is massive. It was basically the home of the Popes back in the 14th century, and when you walk through its halls, you kind of can almost feel the history seeping out of the stone, sort of. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, and honestly for very good reason.

Beyond the palace, the Pont d’Avignon (or Pont Saint-Bénézet) is another must-see. It’s famous for being a bridge that leads nowhere, with only a few arches remaining. Legend has it a shepherd heard an angelic voice telling him to build a bridge here, and well, he did! It’s a bit of a tourist magnet, but the views of the Rhône River are pretty nice.

I found Avignon to be this really good spot to kind of base yourself from when you want to poke around the nearby countryside. It’s pretty well connected by train, so day trips are simple… like actually doable. We used it as a sort of jumping-off point for places such as the Pont du Gard, which is an ancient Roman aqueduct and somehow it’s just mind-blowing to see right up close.

The best time to visit Avignon is sort of in spring, or in fall too. Summer can get pretty hot, and crowded, mainly near the main sights. I went in late September myself, and honestly the weather was perfect—bright days but not overly warm, and the crowds had loosened up a bit.

Where to Stay

Avignon has a really good range of accommodation. If you want a central spot, try looking for hotels inside the old city walls, because then you end up well placed. That way, you’re basically within walking distance of most major sights, even if you don’t plan it that way at first.

• Luxury: La Mirande is a historic hotel right next to the Palais des Papes, offering a truly elegant experience.
• Mid-Range: Hotel Garlande is a charming option with a lovely courtyard and is also centrally located.
• Budget-Friendly: Look for smaller guesthouses or apartments slightly outside the immediate city center for better deals.

One thing to note is that parking within the old city can be kinda tricky and even expensive, so. If you’re driving, check whether your accommodation offers parking, or else be ready to use public parking garages just outside the walls.

• Salon de Provence

When planning our trip through Provence, Salon de Provence kind of stood out as a practical yet charming place to use as a base for a few days, especially on a Provence and French Riviera  itinerary. It’s sort of in the middle of things, so it makes the little day trips really easy, like unexpectedly easy. We ended up staying at the Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix, and honestly it was a treat, an old abbey with those impressive views across the town. Also the parking lot was right there, which was a lifesaver. Really.

Salon de Provence is a really lovely town, it has this relaxed vibe, kinda like a good break from the busier places. The old town feels almost tucked away, with those narrow streets, cute little shops, and yes plenty of spots where you can pause for coffee or something to eat. For me, one of the biggest reasons I enjoyed it was the history, especially the link to Nostradamus. You can actually visit his former home, which is surprisingly intriguing, if you’re the type who likes that kind of story. It’s not huge as a tourist attraction, so it keeps this authentic feeling, not too staged or overdone.

We spent our days exploring:

• Nostradamus’ House: A peek into the life of the famous astrologer. It’s a small museum, but it gives you a sense of the man and his times.
• The Old Town: Just wandering through the cobblestone streets, popping into local bakeries, and enjoying the atmosphere. There’s a market day too, which is great for picking up local produce and souvenirs.
• Château de l’Empéri: This historic fortress overlooks the town and offers great views. It’s a solid place to explore if you enjoy history and architecture.

We found that having a car was definitely the way to go for exploring the region, and picking it up near the train station in Aix-en-Provence made things smooth. You can compare and save on car rentals with free cancellation and no hidden fees here.

Where to Stay

• Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix: As I mentioned, this was our base. It’s a beautiful historic building with modern comforts and a great location. It has parking, which is a big plus.
• Apartment Rentals: There are also many apartments available for rent, which could be a good option if you want to feel more like a local and have your own kitchen to try out some of the amazing local ingredients.

Salon de Provence has a nice sort of balance between historical interest and real, everyday Provençal life, so it feels good in a way that you do not need to rush. You can pretty easily linger for a few days there, like slow down without the pressure, and use it as a springboard for wandering out toward other nearby villages and attractions, too.

• Antibes

After the hustle of some of the larger Riviera cities, Antibes felt like a bit of a breath of fresh air, honestly. It’s a place that really balances that classic Provençal charm with the buzz of a seaside resort, like you can almost feel it. I remember arriving by train from Nice – it’s super easy, only about a 20-minute ride, and honestly, the best way to go.

The old town is where you’ll probably want to spend most of your time, really. It’s kind of a maze of cramped streets, small squares and old ramparts that seem to almost beg you to go exploring, anyway. I spent hours drifting around, getting lost on purpose (or not), and I kept finding little hidden inner courtyards and those tiny artisan shops. Also don’t skip the Cours Masséna market if you end up there, Tuesday through Sunday. It’s smaller than Nice’s but it feels more genuine, like more grounded, and the local produce is honestly pretty great.

One of the absolute must-dos is the walk around Cap d’Antibes. You can do a longer loop, but even a shorter section gives you these incredible views. The path, sometimes called the “smugglers’ path” or Sentier du Littoral, winds along the coast, past some seriously impressive villas and little coves. It’s a bit rugged in places, so wear decent shoes. I packed some water and snacks, which was a good idea because you’ll want to stop and just soak it all in. The views across the bay towards Cannes are just stunning.

Antibes has a way of making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time, but with all the modern comforts of a popular vacation spot. It’s a place where you can easily spend a morning exploring history and an afternoon lounging by the sea.

If you are looking for some beach time, Antibes kinda has you covered. On the coastal path there are a few rocky bits, but there are also plenty of sandy stretches, so, you’re not stuck. Plage de la Salis and Plage de la Garoupe are well liked, and I personally also found Plage des Ondes to be pretty great for a calmer, quieter mood.

For a taste of the local nightlife and dining, head to the pedestrianized boulevard d’Aguillon in the old town for an aperitif. Or, if you fancy a beach bar scene, Juan-les-Pins, just a short hop away, has plenty of options with your feet practically in the sand. For dinner, I’d really recommend trying to get a table at L’Écureuil Espagnol – Casa Amando in the old town. The owner makes an incredible paella, but definitely book ahead as it’s a small, popular place.

Where to Stay

Antibes is a great place to use as a base for checking out the region, it has a slightly more relaxed mood than some of the nearby spots and it slots in really well with a Provence and French Riviera itinerary, you know.

• Luxury: Hôtel Belles Rives in Juan-les-Pins is famous for hosting literary giants like F. Scott Fitzgerald. It’s right on the water and offers a truly glamorous experience.
• Mid-Range: Many charming boutique hotels can be found within the old town walls, offering easy access to sights and restaurants. Look for places near the Provençal market for convenience.
• Budget: While Antibes leans towards the pricier side, you can find more affordable guesthouses or apartments slightly outside the immediate old town or in the Juan-les-Pins area, especially if you book in advance. Consider looking into some of the underrated towns in France for alternative stays if Antibes proves too pricey.

Wrapping Up Your South of France Adventure

So, that’s a wrap on our South of France itinerary, designed to give you a fantastic taste of the region and serve as a memorable France itinerary without needing to hop over to Paris. Whether you spent 7 days or stretched it to 10, hopefully you found some great spots and enjoyed the slower pace of the French Riviera on your France itinerary no Paris. 

From the beaches to the charming towns, it’s a place that really lets you unwind. Remember, this is just a suggestion, and the best part of travel is making it your own. Feel free to mix and match, linger longer where you love, and just soak it all in. Happy travels!

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to get around the South of France?

While renting a car gives you freedom to explore hidden spots, using trains and buses is often easier and more convenient for getting between towns and cities. The train system, especially, is quite good in this region.

How long should I plan for this trip?

You can enjoy a great trip in 7 days, making this South of France itinerary 7 days ideal, but if you want to really relax and see more places without rushing, 10 days would be even better. This flexible plan also works well as a South of France itinerary 7 days for travelers with limited time.

When is the best time to visit the South of France?

Summer offers warm weather perfect for beaches, but it’s also the busiest. Spring (March, May) and Fall (September) are great times with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Winter is quiet and can be budget-friendly.

Is it possible to visit the South of France with family?

Absolutely! The French Riviera has something for everyone, from beautiful beaches to charming towns. It’s a wonderful place for a family vacation, even with young children.

What are some must-see towns or cities?

Nice is a lively hub with a beautiful old town and beaches. Villefranche-sur-Mer is a picturesque gem, perfect for a relaxed stay. Aix-en-Provence offers a taste of Provence’s charm, while Marseille is a vibrant port city.

Can I visit places like Monaco or Italy from the South of France?

Yes! Many places in the South of France are very close to Monaco. It’s also possible to combine a trip to the South of France with parts of Italy, especially if you fly into Nice and out of Rome, for example.

What kind of food can I expect?

Get ready for delicious food! You’ll find fresh seafood, local specialties like ‘socca’ (a chickpea pancake in Nice), amazing pastries, and wonderful wines. Don’t miss trying local markets for fresh produce.

Do I need to book accommodations and transport in advance?

It’s a good idea to book your hotels and train tickets, especially for longer journeys like from Paris to Provence, a few months ahead of time. This helps you get better prices and ensures you get the spots you want, particularly during peak season.