Content Summary
Looking for the best places to visit in the South of France? You’ve come to the right place. It had been quite some time since we’d traveled to the South of France, but this summer we had the good fortune of spending nearly a month revisiting this beautiful region. While taking a Canal du Midi cruise on our luxury houseboat with Le Boat, we had the chance to explore some of the lesser-known places in Southern France.
During this trip down the historic waterway, we were reminded of all the beautiful places in the South of France that we’ve taken over the years. France really has it all. So, if you are looking to branch out from the ordinary, check out the best places to visit in the South of France to create a holiday that will ignite all the senses.
Top Places to Visit in the South of France
Historic cities, the French Riviera, and beautiful beaches; the South of France oozes with energy and excitement. But what are the best places to visit in the South of France? Are you looking for a city filled with elegant architecture and cultural attractions? Or perhaps one of the beautiful medieval villages overlooking the Mediterranean Sea surrounded by olive groves? Be it sandy beaches, art galleries, or traditional French cuisine, Southern France is a timeless holiday destination, and it’s easy to see why.
This guide will cover everything from the stunning natural attractions in the South of France to national parks and the best cities. Are you ready to get started? Let’s take a look.
Best Cities and Towns to Visit in the South of France
When looking for the best places to visit in the South of France, a great place to start is with the region’s urban areas. South France has some incredible cities and towns. Let’s dive straight in.
1. Toulouse
Toulouse was an unexpected city in the South of France, located inland along the Spanish border. The city has the nickname ‘La Ville Rose’, meaning the pink city due to the pink bricks used to build most of its buildings. Toulouse is France’s fourth largest city after Paris, Marseilles, and Lyon, and yet it is easy to explore on foot. When visiting Toulouse, you’ll feel as if you are visiting the authentic France with locals dining in outdoor cafes and students relaxing by the river’s edge. It is what we imagine Paris was like 50 years ago.
A bustling university city, Toulouse may be small, but it is filled with energy. There are plenty of attractions to see, such as the main square of La Capitole, Basilique Saint-Sernin de Toulouse, and the Musee Aeroscopia. Toulouse is the center of the aeronautics and space industry in France, and this museum showcases its history and development.
There is an old town to wander through, plenty of museums, and a cutting-edge fashion scene. It is also the starting point of the Canal du Midi which winds its way down 240 km to the French Riviera. Toulouse is a fantastic place to visit in South France and will definitely keep you entertained.
2. Marseille
Marseille is the oldest city in Southern France. In fact, it is the oldest city in all of France and it is second in size only to Paris. Located on the Gulf de Lyon, which is part of the Mediterranean Sea, Marseille perfectly blends African and French culture. A trading hotspot and port hub since 600 BC, Marseille is one of the best places to visit in the South of France if you desire a taste of history and ancient culture.
The most important part of Marseille is its Vieux Port. It is here that fishermen once sold their catch, and hundreds of years later, many still do. You should also visit the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde, the Musee des Beaux-Arts, and Palais Longchamp.
We suggest spending a minimum of three days in Marseille to experience its amazing seafood scene and its top attractions, including a day trip to Chateau d’If, made famous by Alexander Dumas in The Count of Monte Cristo.
3. Cannes
Who hasn’t heard of Cannes? If you are visiting Southern France and craving a city experience, you must visit Cannes. The city is perhaps the most famous spot on the French Riviera thanks to the glitz and glamour it exudes on an annual basis. It is loved by celebrities and adored for its annual film festival, The Cannes International Film Festival. It boasts many beloved beaches and cultural attractions as well.
Much of Cannes and its attractions can be experienced by walking along the Boulevard de la Croisette. The boulevard spans the Cannes coastline, with stunning views over the Bay of Cannes on the Mediterranean Sea. The Boulevard de la Croisette is lined with luxury hotels, boutiques, and restaurants, catering perfectly to an upscale crowd.
Cannes is ideal for those who seek a luxurious, resort-style atmosphere. Even if you stay at budget accommodation, you can still enjoy the upscale atmosphere by visiting the beaches and enjoying a taste of that five-star hospitality.
4. Nice
Nice is the biggest city on the French Riviera, making it one of the top places to visit in the South of France. It has the most urban vibe compared to all the locations on our list and is ideal if you want to be in the middle of all the action. A good choice for accommodation is Hotel Nice Riviera. This 4-star hotel is one block from the beach with reasonable prices.
Like Cannes, Nice features a scenic stretch of road along its coastline. Promenade des Anglais stretches 7 km, where you’ll find the majority of attractions and the best ocean views. It is also on the Promenade des Anglais where you’ll find the Nice Carnival, taking place every February or March. Be sure to walk the promenade and the Old Town, and make time to visit Castle Hill of Nice – an old medieval fortress overlooking the city.
Interestingly, Nice is surrounded by several beautiful towns and villages, many dating back to the Middle Ages. You can spend days enjoying the city and its beautiful beaches, occasionally taking a day trip to a medieval town for the best of both worlds.
5. Aix en Provence
The region of Provence is one of the most magical areas in France, and Aix en Provence embodies everything expected of a city in southern France. It exudes class, elegance, and history. The former capital of Provence is perfect for tourists who value culture when selecting a holiday destination. Aix en Provence is known by several nicknames, including “The City of a Thousand Fountains” and “The City of Counts.” It has an abundance of things to do and see, paired with a noble atmosphere.
Aix en Provence is an artsy university town just 20 minutes north of Marseille. It was also the birthplace and home of the great painter Paul Cezanne, and the city proudly highlights this historical fact. The Cezanne walk is the best way to see everything related to Cezanne. This fun and interesting self-guided tour takes visitors around the Old Town, visiting Cezanne’s Studio and Camp De Milles.
Among the best activities in Aix en Provence are exploring its art galleries, museums, and other historical sites. The lively nightlife scene and numerous temporary exhibitions and events are also key highlights.
6. Saint Tropez
Yearning to be steps away from the ocean? Saint Tropez is the ideal destination. It is perfect if you want glamour and beauty, yet a quieter atmosphere than larger cities like Nice. This small town on the French Riviera was once a quaint fishing village.
The fishing village gained fame after being used as a filming location for And God Created Woman starring Brigitte Bardot in 1955. Since the 1960s, tourists have flocked to one of the most popular places to visit in the South of France, yet Saint Tropez has retained some of its charming village qualities. You can still spot little fishing boats in the Old Port, and La Ponche Quarter is characterized by narrow cobblestone streets.
The best beaches in Saint Tropez are Plage de Pampelonne, Plage St. Tropez, and Bouillabaisse Beach. After your day at the beach, make sure to experience the town’s vibrant hospitality scene, and don’t miss the market at Place des Lices. The local cuisine is renowned for delicious food and fantastic eateries; definitely try the fresh seafood and locally grown olives.
7. Saint Paul de Vence
Saint Paul de Vence is one of the oldest medieval villages on the French Riviera. Picture a walled town with cobblestone streets and historical, overhanging buildings. Everything here is constructed from traditional stone, and Saint Paul de Vence is reminiscent of a fairy tale.
Overlooking the French Riviera from its hilltop location, it can be visited easily as a day trip from Nice. However, if you can, you should try to stay in the town itself. Just strolling through its cobbled streets and Old Town is enough to keep you entertained for a full day.
Notably, it was once the home of famous painter Marc Chagall, and when you visit one of its top attractions, the Cimetiére de Saint-Paul-de-Vence, you will find his grave.
Don’t forget to dine at La Colombe d’Or, where the Roux family once welcomed artists like Picasso, Braque, Calder, and Matisse to dine in exchange for now-famous artworks. Dining in an artistic atmosphere adds to the delightful experience.
8. Les Baux de Provence
While concentrating on cities and towns, the village of Les Baux de Provence was too beautiful not to include. This picturesque hilltop village is still protected by medieval walls and offers a memorable getaway. In fact, its beauty has earned it the designation of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The top attractions in the village include the ruins of Castillo de Los Baux, a 12th-century castle, and Carrieres de Lumieres. The latter features a unique digital exhibition with artwork projected onto the disused quarry’s limestone walls, changing frequently to keep visitors engaged.
Though Les Baux de Provence is quiet and distanced from the Mediterranean Sea, the village is filled with charm and history. For a quaint glimpse of Southern France, it is a fantastic destination.
9. Saint Rémy de Provence
Saint Remy de Provence is another stunning rural town located on the outskirts of the Alpilles Natural Regional Park. This town features beautiful architecture and serene landscapes, and it inspired renowned artist Vincent Van Gogh during his stay in a mental hospital where he created one of his most famous works, The Starry Night.
The Musee Estrine Presence Van Gogh is the best place to learn about the artist, while Glanum serves as an extensive archaeological site representing ancient Roman heritage. Visitors can also check out the Monastery Saint Paul de Mausole, the psychiatric asylum where Van Gogh was admitted. Saint Remy de Provence offers plenty of activities to keep you engaged.
10. Vers Pont Du Gard
Vers Pont Du Gard is a small town celebrated for its impressive Roman heritage. The highlight attraction is the Pont du Gard bridge and aqueduct, which have been preserved and maintained over time. This architectural marvel is worth visiting, especially if you appreciate character-filled historical sites.
Once you’ve visited the town’s bridge, make sure to stop by the Pont du Gard Museum and Chapel Notre Dame de Laval. You can also enjoy swimming and fishing in the River Gardon. Located inland, the riverside experience offers a refreshing alternative to beach days, especially during the warm summer months.
11. Arles
Arles is a must-visit destination and ranks among the best places to explore in the South of France. During the ancient Roman period, Arles served as a provincial capital, and today, many architectural marvels and historical sites remain, including Arles Amphitheater.
We recommend catching a performance at the Arles Amphitheater, embarking on a Van Gogh walking tour to see locations that inspired famous artworks, and visiting the cloisters at St. Trophime. Arles is abundant in religious and artistic history, so be prepared to spend plenty of time sightseeing.
This charming city is situated along the banks of the Rhone River and is flanked by the Camargue Nature Reserve. Although it’s located inland, it’s under an hour’s drive from some of the best beaches on the Riviera. If you are looking to explore more of France, Arles makes for a wonderful base.
Best Natural Places to Visit in the South of France
Now that we’ve covered the best cities and towns, let’s shift our focus to the best natural places to visit in the South of France.
Southern France is filled with spectacular natural attractions, whether you seek day trips or nearby accommodations. Be prepared with your offline maps to explore these top destinations.
12. Verdon Natural Regional Park
Verdon Natural Regional Park is an ideal location to explore natural attractions beyond just hiking trails and stunning views. This 180,000-hectare park, located in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, is most renowned for the Gorges du Verdon and Lake Croix.
The Gorges du Verdon features a 25 km (15.5 miles) long river canyon with striking milky blue waters. Expect exciting white water rapids and steep cliffs that reach up to 700 meters (0.4 mi) on either side. Known as the deepest gorge in France, the Gorges du Verdon offers numerous hiking trails and even rafting experiences for thrill-seekers.
As the river exits the gorge, it flows into Lake Sainte-Croix, where three charming villages await visitors looking to grab a bite or take a dip.
13. Calanques National Park
Calanques National Park encompasses both land and sea, spanning 128,000 acres on the coastline an hour’s drive from Marseilles, heading towards Cassis. For those who love coastal hikes, hidden coves, and dramatic cliffs, Calanques is a heavenly spot. It is the only national park in Europe nestled close to urban areas and stretches across both land and sea.
The term ‘Calanques’ refers to a dolomite or limestone inlet, characterized by dramatic pale grey or white sea cliffs. Be sure to bring a high-quality camera to capture these stunning scenes that you will cherish after your holiday.
Furthermore, while hiking, keep an eye out for marine reserves that often attract playful pods of dolphins. The park is home to over 140 species of protected animals and plants, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
14. Natural Reserve of the Courant d’Huchet
Compared to other locations on this list, the Natural Reserve of the Courant d’Huchet is relatively small. However, it offers some of the most striking landscapes and ranks among the best natural places to visit in the South of France. Located an hour’s drive north of Biarritz, it makes a fantastic day trip.
The reserve is mostly marshland but includes a beautiful beach within the park. Here, you’ll find stunning sand dunes that create a striking contrast against the surrounding marshes and forests. Visitors can swim at the beach or hike the myriad of trails while spotting native flora and fauna.
If you seek something truly unique, consider taking a boat tour. You can explore independently by hiring a boat or join a guided tour for a more informative experience—both options are delightful.
15. Baronnies Provencales Regional Natural Park
If you’ve seen those picturesque lavender fields on Instagram, Baronnies Provencales Regional Natural Park is where you can capture your own stunning images. Aside from its quaint villages and low-lying mountains, this park is renowned for its lavender fields. Visiting between June and September guarantees you’ll witness their breathtaking beauty.
Located about an hour and a half drive from Avignon, this park can be experienced in a day trip or through accommodations in its villages. Besides the captivating lavender fields, you’ll find countless hiking trails and a variety of outdoor activities.
16. Regional Park of Camargue
Famous for its once-wild herds of Camargue horses, Camargue Park is a must-visit. These horses are one of France’s oldest breeds, and while breeding is now regulated, you might still spot a semi-feral herd roaming freely.
Apart from the magnificent horses, Camargue Natural Regional Park features wetlands, rough grazing areas, and a nearby marine reserve. The park lies along the coastline, just outside of Marseilles and near Arles.
For nature enthusiasts, the best activities in Camargue involve wildlife observation. Visitors can spot vibrant flamingoes at Ornithological Park of Pont de Gau and can also visit local ranches for horseback rides to spot semi-feral horses in their natural habitats.
17. Alpilles Regional Nature Park
If you’re looking for adventure, Alpilles Regional Nature Park has an abundance of biking, hiking, and horseback riding trails, complete with numerous equestrian centers. The park also offers ample climbing opportunities due to its limestone rock formations and cliffs.
The Alpilles area has various activities available, whether you’re looking for history, culture, a fitness challenge, or a stunning new profile picture. Hikers will appreciate the diverse trails winding through pine forests, olive groves, and picturesque vineyards.
Additionally, you can easily visit the castle and the quarry art display located in the earlier mentioned Les Baux de Provence.
18. Sainte Baume Natural Regional Park
Sainte Baume Natural Regional Park showcases the remarkable convergence of alpine and Mediterranean landscapes. This natural setting is characterized by dramatic limestone mountains, ridges, and lush pine tree forests.
Climbers will enjoy the diversity of routes available for exploration, accommodating a range of skill levels. The park holds significant religious importance as well, featuring a grotto believed to be the residence of Mary Magdalene. Pilgrims frequently visit this site, accessible via a picturesque forest path that takes approximately forty minutes.
19. Pyrenees National Park
Pyrenees National Park stands out as one of the best places to visit in the South of France. Nestled along the French-Spanish border, we discovered this stunning area while cruising in 40-degree heat towards Carcassonne.
The park features alpine meadows, high-altitude lakes, and towering craggy mountains, making it an exciting and beautiful place. It is truly a bucket-list worthy destination if you seek thrilling outdoor activity in Southern France.
Cirque de Gavarnie is one of the park’s most famous attractions, recognized for its sweeping cliff face that resembles a large, natural amphitheater. You will also find numerous waterfalls cascading down the cliff walls.
Apart from Cirque de Gavarnie, the park boasts endless hiking trails, outdoor activities, and climbing opportunities— ideal for adrenaline seekers and nature lovers alike.
20. Landes de Gascogne Regional Natural Park
Landes de Gascogne Regional Natural Park is primarily a nature reserve, which we appreciate. The park supports eco-friendly tourism while offering attractions like an eco-museum and a bird sanctuary for visitors to explore.
Situated in southwest France, this park includes both coastal and inland areas. Visitors can engage in kayaking down rivers, swimming in natural lakes, or hiking the plethora of trails. Surrounded by various flora and fauna species, Landes de Gascogne is serene and brimming with natural beauty.
21. Narbonnaise en Mediterranee Natural Regional Park
Narbonnaise en Mediterranee offers a diverse landscape featuring beaches, cliffs, forests, and magnificent vineyards, often referred to as the land of wine.
Visitors can enjoy wine tasting, hiking, or a camping getaway amidst stunning scenery. Located about an hour and a half’s drive from Montpellier and Toulouse, this park provides an ideal blend of beach holiday and nature exploration.
22. Mercantour National Park
A stunning 167,297-acre park, Mercantour encompasses alpine lakes, unique mountain ranges, and a wealth of scenic hiking trails. Even better, it’s just an hour’s drive from Nice.
Despite its size and beauty, the park remains relatively unvisited compared to France’s other national parks. Those who venture here will be rewarded with charming villages and mountain communities where locals still maintain traditional ways of life. Sampling decadent cheeses and exquisite honey can significantly enhance your visit.
After appreciating the cultural side of Mercantour, you can dive directly into outdoor activities like hiking, biking, climbing, and swimming to truly enjoy the wonders of nature.
It’s no secret that the South of France is mesmerizing. This is just the tip of the iceberg regarding places to visit in this remarkable region.
We hope this guide offers insight into the diverse experiences available, from traversing cobblestone streets of medieval towns to lounging on sandy beaches along the Mediterranean Sea. Each of these locations in the South of France guarantees memories that will last a lifetime.
