2-Week South of France Itinerary: A Provence Road Trip

Last updated on October 2, 2024

France gives a lot when it comes to charm, but perhaps the most idyllic of all its regions is Provence and the Côte d’Azur. From the coastal towns of the French Riviera to its lavender fields, hilltop towns and the natural wonders of the Verdon Gorge and Calanque National Park, Provence is a road trip of dreams. I had no idea the region was so varied.

A Provence road trip is one of the best ways to explore, giving you the freedom to choose your own priorities and discover unexpected sights along the way. Make a rough plan, then stop at villages and views that spur spontaneous detours. We’ve driven the area several times and always discover new favourites on every visit. 

This 2-week south of France itinerary is a good starting point. Copy it entirely or pick and choose your favourite parts. It’s an amalgamation of several of our own south of France road trips, creating what we think is the perfect Provence itinerary.

You could combine it with this road trip along France’s west coast, this one that also dips into Italy and Switzerland, or even one of these other Europe road trips. And if you have time, I highly recommend extending it a bit further north to Lake Annecy (one of my favourite places in France).

How to use this south of France itinerary

We’ve structured our Provence itinerary as a loop from Aix-en-Provence. But you could start anywhere you like on the loop, or add Avignon as an alternate starting point. For example, Marseille or Nice would be a good option if you’re arriving by air. 

As I said before, you could copy our entire route exactly or just pick your favourite parts and create your own southern France itinerary from that. 

We tend to prefer to stay in different destinations rather than base ourselves in one place and do day trips. This is partly because we like to experience different accommodations and see destinations at night/in the morning too. Plus I generally prefer to change accommodation rather than do a there-and-back drive. But I know many people prefer the opposite.

If you prefer day trips, you could base yourself in a couple of destinations on the route, for example, Aix-en-Provence and one of the French Riviera towns. The drive times make day trips manageable.

At the end I’ve also included all the drive times and suggested shorter itineraries.

This is an amalgamation of a few road trips we’ve done, blended to create an ultimate Provence itinerary. Also see our France, Switzerland and Italy road trip itinerary, which includes the French Riviera section of this route.

Who is this itinerary for? Families? Couples?

This South of France itinerary could suit anyone, from couples to families to solo travellers. We’ve travelled the region both as a couple and as a family of four (with 4 and 6-year-old kids). As with all our Bridges and Balloons itineraries, it would suit most ages and groups.

Our style of family travel means we try to do as many “grown-up” things as we can, while also keeping the kids happy with visits to playgrounds and family-friendly museums etc. If you’re traveling without kids, just skip the more child-focused bits.

Our Provence road trip highlights

South of France Road trip map

Provence road trip itinerary at a glance

• Avignon – 1 night
• Aix en Provence – 2 nights
• Luberon Villages – 2 nights
• Verdon Gorge – 2 nights
• Côte d’Azur hilltop towns – 1 night 
• Nice/Monaco – 2 nights 
• French Riviera beach towns: Cassis, St Tropez, Cannes and Antibes – 2 nights 
• Marseille, Cassis and Calenque National Park – 2 nights

Southern France road trip FAQs

How long do you need for a road trip in the south of France?

To cover all the places on this Provence itinerary, you ideally need 10-14 days, but you could pack the majority into a week at a push. For example, we’ve mostly suggested two nights in each destination, but you cut that down to one.

Personally, if I was doing a one-week Provence road trip, I’d cut out a few of the stops to have time to properly soak in the destinations. Seven days would certainly be enough to get a good taste of the region. I’ve included the drive times and some alternate itineraries at the end of this post.

When to go to the south of France

The south of France sparkles in the sunshine so is best visited from April-September. You could go in winter, but I think you’d miss out on many of its charms. That said, peak summer is boiling hot and August is crowded (it’s when all of France takes its summer vacation). We’ve been in April and July. While April had more manageable temperatures, I still preferred July as the hilltop towns are a magical setting for balmy summer evenings, and the warm weather meant we could make the most of the Mediterranean and Provence’s lakes. But bear in mind, I love the heat!

I would love to visit in June when the lavender is in bloom (we just missed it in mid-July when most of the fields had been harvested or lost their colour). And if you love sunshine, but with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, consider May or September. 

How to get around Provence and the south of France

This is a Provence road trip itinerary, so you know we’re going to recommend having your own wheels. It’s the only way to explore independently beyond the main towns. Plus the driving is part of the adventure with scenic roads between the villages and landscapes that have you pulling over just to soak it all in. 

Don’t worry too much about navigating—French roads are well-maintained, and signage is generally straightforward, although a GPS is certainly useful. Also look out for tolls and factor them into the price of your trip. You can use this toll calculator to know what to expect in advance.

We tend to use Discover Cars for hiring cars as they normally have better deals than booking directly with the provider.

How to get to the south of France

If you’re flying to the south of France, the main options are Marseille Provence Airport (for the west side of Provence) and Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (for the eastern side near the Côte d’Azur). Both airports are well-connected to major European cities and beyond. 

If you’re already in Europe, the TGV trains and Interrail are fantastic options – you can get from Paris to Aix-en-Provence in about 3 hours, and Marseille in not much more. We did this on our most recent Provence road trip, using an Interrail pass to get the train and Eurostar from Bristol all the way to Aix-en-Provence and then hiring a car from there. You could feasibly do that trip in a day, but we broke it up by staying in Paris overnight. Personally, I much prefer the train to flying and find it a less stressful way to travel.

What is the best town to base in Provence?

Aix-en-Provence is a good central point for exploring Provence. From there, you can easily take day trips to the Luberon villages, Marseille, Avignon, Cassis, the Calenque National Park, and the Verdon Gorge. If you want to visit the Cote d’Azur, I’d recommend heading further east and staying in one of the beach towns like Antibes or Eze (or Nice if you want a city).

Our detailed south of France road trip itinerary

Aix-en-Provence

We fell head over heels for Aix-en-Provence, a lively Provençal university town known as the “City of a Thousand Fountains”. It’s a city that’s known for its artsy, independent vibe with a rebellious streak that dates back to the 15^th century.  

Filled with elegant squares, tree-lined boulevards, baroque architecture, and a vibrant art scene, it’s a hub for culture, both old and new.

We’ve structured this road trip with multiple overnight stays in different places. But if you’d prefer to base yourself in one place and do day trips, Aix-en-Provence would be an ideal base for visiting Cassis, Marseille, the Luberon and Verdon Gorge. It’d also make a fantastic city break by itself.

Things to do in Aix-en-Provence

A lot of the charms of Aix-en-Provence can be found by simply wandering the city and soaking in the atmosphere. My favourite night there was one we spent without any plans, watching street performers and eating al fresco at a patio restaurant. 

But that’s not to say there aren’t lots of attractions and specific places to visit. Here are some of the highlights…

• The main place to stroll is the Old Town (Vieil Aix) where you’ll find charming squares, boutique shops, and historical fountains. Don’t miss Cours Mirabeau, Aix’s lively main boulevard lined with grand mansions. There are some guided tours if you want to learn more as you wander.
• A fun way to structure your wanders is to go on a hunt for all the different fountains – La Rotonde is the biggest, but other favourites include Place des Quatre Dauphins, surrounded by four dolphins, and Fontaine Moussue, covered in green moss.
• We love a market and Aix has different options every day of the week. The main market is on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Head to Place des Prêcheurs for lots of food stalls. Pick up a picnic and enjoy it in Parc de la Torse. 
• Visit the Atelier Cézanne, the studio where Paul Cézanne painted many of his masterpieces, and follow the Cézanne Trail around the town. Check ahead for opening times as they change depending on the season. 
• For galleries, the Musée Granet has a vast collection of European art, including works by Cézanne, Rembrandt, and Picasso. The Pavillon Vendôme is a gorgeous historical home that nowadays houses interesting art exhibitions. The gardens are free to enter and a pretty place to wander and picnic.
• Just outside the city, the Fondation Vasarely art museum is worth a visit for the building alone.
• If you’re with kids, treat them to a ride on the carousel.
• For lavender views and products, head to Terre Ugo outside the city.

There are some fun activities to do in Aix-en-Provence that you can book via Get Your Guide. See a selection below or click through for more options.

Where to eat and drink in Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence has hundreds of restaurants, cafes and bars to choose from, catering for everything from the student budget to luxury tastes. 

A few of our favourites and some that were recommended to us are:

• La Pizza – kid-friendly spot with lots of outdoor seating and lovely, convivial vibes. The kids’ pizza is shaped like a heart! Les Baratineurs is another kid-friendly option with pizza and other European dishes.
• Amorino – for flower shaped ice creams with multiple flavours 
• Crepes a Gogo for the best crepes in town.
• Maison Nosh for healthy vegan food 
• Mana – inventive breakfast and lunch, plus excellent coffee
• L’Atelier des Madeleines – for creatively flavoured madeleines from a cute shopfront
• Book In Bar – cosy English language bookshop and café
• Loucau – ice cream shop in the countryside outside Aix that hosts evening pop-ups during the summer months (looks dreamy!)

Where to stay in Aix-en-Provence

We did a home exchange in Aix-en-Provence, so can’t offer first-hand advice on where to stay. But some highly rated options include:

Villa Gallici – all out luxury at a stunning boutique hotel with opulent rooms, a beautiful garden, and a pool, just a short walk from the city center. 

Hôtel des Augustins – housed in a former 12th-century convent with comfortable rooms in the heart of town. 

The Luberon

In the hills of Provence, the Luberon villages are the image many people conjure when dreaming of the region. Medieval stone villages perched on rocky outcrops, surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills of purple lavender. It’s the epitome of French countryside charm, and a landscape that has beckoned artists for generations. I was enchanted by it as much as I’d hoped.

Life moves a little slower here and it’s a perfect place to vacation, exploring the pretty villages by day and languishing in the bustle of courtyard restaurants by night. 

It’s an area you could explore by day trips from Aix-en-Provence or Avignon, but to truly soak it in, we recommend spending at least one night in the area. We loved being in the villages during the evenings.

Things to do in the Luberon

The main attraction of the Luberon is its villages. Everyone has a favourite, from russet-toned Rousillon to lesser-known, but equally charming options like Menerbes. And there are also lavender fields to wander and hikes to explore.

Here are some highlights of things to do in the Luberon:

• Gordes is arguably the most well-known of the Luberon villages and was also my favourite, largely because the stars aligned and we spent a beautiful evening, eating al fresco and feeling like part of a film scene of quintessential Provence. Wander the streets, spot all the cat portraits, and be sure to enjoy the view from Gordes town viewpoint.
• The ochre cliffs of Roussillon are an otherworldy addition to the Provencal landscape, and unmissable in my opinion. Be sure to walk the spectacular Ochre Trail.
• Loumarin is another gorgeous village and one with a distinctly stylish, bougie vibe. Go there for boutique shopping and a pristine example of Provencal style.
• Other less touristed villages that are worth visiting include: Bonnieux, Oppede, Menerbes, Fontaine-de-Vaucluse and Saignon. 
• For lavender fields, head to Valensole, a full lavender valley with plenty of souvenir shops and photo opportunities. This is a good place to stop en route to the Verdon Gorge if you’re including that as part of your itinerary too.
• An iconic shot of Provence can be found at the Abbey of Sénanque, especially during lavender season. There is a schedule for both guided and unguided tours, so check the website before you go. Depending on the current state of things, you might not be able to get the iconic shot you’ve seen on Instagram as they’ve put up some fences to stop people trampling on the lavender.
• For something more active, the Luberon has a network of hiking trails and walks. Plus you can canoe or kayak down the Sorgue River.

Where to eat and drink in the Luberon

Food is at the heart of the Luberon experience and provides a chance to experience the flavors of Provence and its farms. If you have particular places you want to try, it’s worth booking ahead, especially in the high season, as it can be hard to get a table on the spot.

Here are a few highlights:

• La Bastide de Pierres – popular, casual Italian dining in Gordes (great for vegetarians and families)
• La Trinquette – charming historic French restaurant in Gordes
• Le Renaissance – this place is more about the setting than the food, which is good but not exceptional. But we found the pretty setting worth the compromise, lit with fairy lights in an atmospheric Provencal courtyard. It’s also great for kids with space for them to run around nearby if needs be.
• La Maison du Gibassier Boulangerie – we grabbed a takeout lunch from this little bakery. It’s also a good place to try a gibassier – a typical Provencal biscuit (I’m not a fan, personally!)
• Chez Auzet – cute tea room above the town in Menerbes. We had coffee here (close to the drone shot you can see of the town on my Instagram)
• Café Gaby in Loumarin for casual food and excellent people watching 
• Le Fournil in Bonnieux – for a cozy yet refined dining experience 
• La Bastide de Marie – for farm-to-table dining in Menerbes 
• Domaine de la Citadelle – family wine estate where you and sample local wines while soaking in views of the vineyards. 

Where to stay in the Luberon

The Luberon villages are abundant with beautiful places to stay, ranging from high-end luxury escapes to more rustic, yet charming Airbnbs. In the high season, it can be tricky to find places with friendly price tags, but we were lucky with Bastide du Bois Breant, which I detail below. We also heard good things about Le Galinier Lourmarin, but that’s a far more upmarket stay, so you would need a bigger budget.

Bastide du Bois Breant

Run by a father and daughter team, this 13-room hotel near Gordes is housed in a restored traditional Provençal manor house on an old truffle farm. Its owners are committed to keeping it affordable – in fact it’s the foundation of their vision.

As well as the rooms in the manor, there are three treehouses and a caravan in the garden. We stayed in the double treehouse, which has two double rooms connected by an outdoor path. We, and especially the kids, loved the novelty of it. And the treehouses themselves had charming, cosy decor.

There’s also a lovely swimming pool, which was a perfect place to hang out and cool off in the summer heat. It starts off pretty shallow so is good for little kids. And breakfast was a highlight, served in the courtyard and with our table made into a sort of personal buffet with all kinds of local produce, from cheeses to fruits to jams.

You can get double rooms from €150, or family rooms from €200, in the high season. And it’s even less outside of this time.

Verdon Gorge and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

The Verdon Gorge, often called the “Grand Canyon of Europe”, is a dramatic natural wonder that cuts through the Provençal landscape with stunning turquoise waters and towering limestone cliffs. The sheer scale of the gorge is awe-inspiring, offering some of the most breathtaking views we’ve experienced in France. Personally, I’d put this at the top of your Provence bucket list.

A good place to base yourself for exploring the gorge is in or around the nearby medieval village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, which perches dramatically on the edge of the cliffs and is understandably rated as one of France’s most beautiful villages.

Things to do in and around the Verdon Gorge

The main draw of the Verdon Gorge is to simply marvel at its beauty, and there are options to explore for all abilities and tastes, from scenic drives to white-knuckle adventures. 

Bear in mind the Verdon River has nearly 100km of gorges, so it’s a huge area, but the main ‘grand canyon’ section is between Point Sublime and Lake Sainte Croix. The most iconic views are from Pointe Sublime and Pont du Galetas, close to Moustiers-Sainte Marie.

Here are some of the best things to do in the Verdon Gorge…

• Drive the ridge road (La Route des Crêtes) for epic views of the gorge from above. The 15-mile loop takes about two hours and the road definitely isn’t for the faint of heart.
• We loved seeing the gorge from the water and there are all sorts of ways to do that, including swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding and pedal boating. We hired a pedalo for a couple of hours and loved the leisurely trip down into the gorge, stopping to swim along the way.
• The most famous hiking trail is the Sentier Blanc Martel. It takes around seven hours to hike the full length, but you can opt to do shorter, family-friendly sections too.
• Rock climbing on the gorge’s cliffs is renowned among climbers worldwide with over 1,500 courses to choose from 
• The Verdon River is a popular spot for rafting. Go upstream for this around La Palud Sur Verdon and Castellane.
• Lake Sainte Croix is a perfect spot for swimming. We stayed in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, but came down to the river in the evening for an end-of-day swim. 
• Visit Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and wander through its narrow, winding streets, stopping at its famous ceramics workshops, and hiking up to the chapel of Notre-Dame-de-Beauvoir for panoramic views over the village and valley. It’s one of the most picturesque villages we’ve visited in France.

Where to eat and drink in and around the Verdon Gorge

Most of the dining options around the Verdon Gorge are centred around hotels or campsites. Unless you’re in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie where there are more options. Be sure to book as we had trouble getting a table and ended up eating fairly uninspired crepes. 

These are some highly rated places in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie:

• Restaurant Les Tables du Cloitre – friendly, family-run French restaurant
• La Cantine – casual restaurant serving excellent burgers, both meaty and veggie
• Pepite – for artisan ice cream and baked goods 
• La Bastide de Moustiers – owned by Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse, this hotel offers a refined menu focusing on fresh, local ingredients 

Where to stay near the Verdon Gorge

The Verdon Gorge is such a beautiful place that we recommend taking full advantage by doing some camping or glamping. There are lots of sites on both sides of the gorge.

Verdon Gorge Huttopia

We’d have loved to stay at the Verdon Gorge Huttopia on the eastern side, but it was fully booked. Our friends went there and gave it a glowing review. The only downside is that it’s about an hour from Lake Sainte Croix where you get the pedalos. If you’re on a tight schedule, bear this in mind when planning your itinerary.

La Bonne Etoile

Because the campsites were fully booked, we stayed in a charming little apartment hotel—La Bonne Etoile—in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. It was a little dated, but the location was beautiful, with a view directly onto a small square backed by cliffs. It was a charming place to wake up and people-watch. Plus, it’s great for families, as there’s a separate bedroom as well as a sofa bed in the living area.

La Bastide de Moustiers 

If you’re looking for luxury, La Bastide de Moustiers is an idyllic countryside inn with beautifully decorated rooms and a renowned restaurant, perfect for a romantic getaway. 

St Paul de Vence and Grasse

Just inland from the glamorous coastline of the French Riviera, the hilltop towns of St Paul de Vence and Grasse offer a quieter side of the region. The villages have long been a draw for artists, including the likes of Picasso and Chagall. Even today, the cobbled streets of St Paul de Vence are lined with galleries and art. 

You could easily visit these towns as a day trip from Nice, but we loved staying in St Paul de Vence and getting to know it a little better.

Also, if you’re travelling here from the Verdon Gorge, you could make a detour to Cascade de Sillans, a beautiful waterfall that shows yet another side to the nature of Provence.

We first went here as part of this colourful Europe road trip.

Things to do in St Paul de Vence and Grasse

Both St Paul de Vence and Grasse are perfect places to simply wander and soak in the atmosphere, but here are some things to get you started…

• Wander the narrow streets of St Paul de Vence to discover art galleries tucked away in stone houses.
• Visit Fondation Maeght in St Paul de Vence, a modern art museum surrounded by sculptures and pine trees. 
• In Grasse, immerse yourself in the world of perfumery at Fragonard, Molinar or Galimard, where you can learn about perfume-making or even create your own scent.
• Visit Grasse’s Musée International de la Parfumerie, which delves into the town’s storied history as the world’s perfume capital. 

Where to eat and drink in the Côte d’Azur Hilltop Towns

As we’ve said before, France is pretty terrible for vegetarians, so St Paul de Vence was a little underwhelming for us on the culinary front.

• We ate at Le Tilleul one night, one of the only places in town that had vegetarian options. The food was great, but quite expensive.
• If you’re a meat eater and want a treat, then there’s a famous Michelin Star restaurant, Le Saint-Paul. 
• Le Colombe d’Or also comes highly recommended for lovers of French cuisine. It features original works of art by masters such as Picasso and Miró. 
• In Grasse, head to La Bastide Saint-Antoine, a Michelin-starred restaurant set in a beautiful estate. Or for something more down-to-earth, Café des Musées has hearty, traditional fare in a cosy, unpretentious setting.
• Both Grasse and St.Paul de Vence are also good places to try Provencal classics like lavender-infused honey and olive oil.

Where to stay in St Paul de Vence

One of the reasons I’ve included the hilltop towns as a stopover rather than a day trip is because they have some really charming places to stay that let you soak up the peace and beauty of the Provencal countryside.

Hotel La Grande Bastide

We stayed at Hotel La Grande Bastide, a romantic spot with a perfect view of the village. It’s housed in an 18th-century country home and has been refurbished in a classic, sumptuous style. There’s a pool, and a highlight for us was the jacuzzi where we enjoyed an evening with prosecco and beautiful views. Double rooms cost from £140 per night.

Other accommodation options include:

• Le Saint Paul – a five-star boutique hotel set in a 16th-century mansion, offering plush rooms with views over the valley and a Michelin-starred restaurant. 
• Toile Blanche – an intimate, family-run hotel surrounded by gardens, where contemporary art meets Provençal elegance. The views are fabulous.
• In Grasse, La Bastide Saint-Antoine is a luxurious estate, complete with beautiful gardens, a pool, and a renowned restaurant. 
• Le Mas du Roc – a more budget-friendly option with epic views from a pretty, pink home.

Nice and Monaco

Nice, the capital of the Cote d’Azur, and its neighbour Monaco, are the biggest cities on the French Riviera and a starting point for the glitz that the coast is known for. Monaco is a true spectacle of extravagance, and while its style isn’t my cup of tea, it’s interesting to see how the uber-rich live with their super yachts, muscle cars and grand casinos. It also has an interesting environmental angle, aiming to be carbon neutral by 2050.

Nice is less in your face, with an old-world elegance and pretty pastel buildings lining the seafront. It’s a beautiful city where Italian and French influences intertwine and where the sun seems to always shine.  

You could visit both Nice and Monaco as day trips from some of the smaller Riviera towns, but if you have time, spend a night in at least one of them.  

Things to do in Nice and Monaco

Here are some ideas for things to do in Nice and Monaco…

• In Nice, stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, soaking in the seaside atmosphere.
• Wander the Vieux Nice (Old Town), exploring its maze of colourful streets. Visit the bustling Cours Saleya Market for fresh produce and flowers.
• Visit Musée Matisse to admire works by one of the city’s most famous residents. 
• For panoramic views, climb up Castle Hill, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of the Mediterranean and the city below. 
• In Monaco, the Prince’s Palace is one of the most popular sights, where you can catch the changing of the guard and tour the royal apartments. 
• Go to the Monte Carlo Casino to witness its opulent interiors or try your luck at the tables. Or for a quieter moment, explore the exotic Jardin Exotique de Monaco. 
• The Oceanographic Museum, perched dramatically above the sea, is great to visit with kids.
• You can get a passport stamp from the tourist office in Monaco, which is a fun memento to have.

There are some fun activities to do in Nice and Monaco that you can book via Get Your Guide. See a selection below or click through for more options.

Where to eat and drink in Nice and Monaco

Nice is a haven for food lovers, with its mix of Provençal and Italian-inspired cuisine, and in Monaco, dining is a true luxury experience.

• In Nice, try the local specialties like socca (a chickpea pancake) or salade niçoise at Chez Pipo or Le Safari in the Old Town. 
• For a more upscale dining experience, Le Chantecler at the Hotel Negresco offers a two-Michelin-starred menu that showcases the best of French gastronomy. 
• In Monaco, for Michelin-starred extravagance, head to Le Louis XV by Alain Ducasse at the Hôtel de Paris. 
• For something slightly more relaxed but still chic, Café de Paris is perfect for a glamorous lunch or evening drink while soaking in the lively atmosphere of Monte Carlo. 

Where to stay in Nice and Monaco

We didn’t stay in Nice or Monaco, instead basing ourselves in St Paul de Vence. But if you’d like to stay the night, Nice has a good range of accommodations, from boutique hotels to luxury stays. In Monaco, pretty much everything is at the luxury end, at least in terms of price! Here are some places that come recommended.

• For a classic Riviera experience, the iconic Hotel Negresco is a symbol of Nice’s grandeur, blending Belle Époque elegance with modern comforts. 
• For something more intimate, Hotel La Perouse is a boutique gem nestled at the foot of Castle Hill with stunning sea views. 
• In Monaco, Hôtel de Paris is unmatched in its grandeur, with palatial rooms, world-class dining, and a prime location next to the casino. 
• For a more relaxed yet stylish option, Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort offers a resort-like experience, complete with a lagoon-style pool and lush gardens. 

Côte d’Azur beach towns

The Côte d’Azur beach towns have a reputation for glitz and all-out bling. But beyond the flashy towns of St.Tropez and Cannes, you can find charming, more laidback options like Frejus, Antibes and Eze. They’re sun-soaked, beautiful towns where you can bask in the undeniable beauty of the Cote d’Azur and explore its art-filled history. 

I was underwhelmed by Cannes, but St.Tropez is really pretty and worth seeing. But if I had to choose any of the towns to visit, I’d go for Eze or Antibes. 

Things to do in the Côte d’Azur beach towns

Whether you’re in Cannes, Antibes, or Saint-Tropez, the sparkling coastline is the star attraction. But there are also plenty of other things to do when you want a break from the beach. 

• Stroll along the Promenade de la Croisette, Cannes’ famous waterfront boulevard. And then visit the charming old town of Le Suquet, with its narrow streets and panoramic views.
• Visit the Palais des Festivals, home to the iconic Cannes Film Festival.
• Relax on the legendary Pampelonne Beach in St Tropez, home to chic beach clubs like Club 55.
• In St Tropez, explore the Vieux Port, lined with luxury yachts and lively cafés. Then wander through Place des Lices and shop at the famous St. Tropez market.
• Visit the Citadel of St. Tropez for incredible views and history of the town.
• Hike the Nietzsche Path for breathtaking views of the Mediterranean as you climb from the coast to Eze village.
• Explore the Exotic Garden in Eze, perched high on a hill with stunning vistas and rare plants.
• Enjoy a boat trip in any of the towns to discover the Côte d’Azur’s hidden coves and beaches.
• Stroll through the Old Town of Antibes, a charming area full of colorful markets and boutiques.
• Visit Antibe’s Picasso Museum, housed in the historic Château Grimaldi, featuring the artist’s works.
• Take a scenic walk along the Cap d’Antibes coastal path, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean.

Where to eat and drink in the French Riviera Beach Towns

The French Riviera is most celebrated for its seafood, which unfortunately is lost on me as a vegetarian! Here are some places that friends have recommended…

• In Cannes, indulge at La Palme d’Or, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant with stunning views of the sea. For a more relaxed vibe, try Poissonnerie Forville, a local favorite for seafood. Da Laura is good for Italian food.
• In Antibes, Le Figuier de Saint-Esprit is a gastronomic experience in a cozy, intimate setting, while Paseo is a stylish, bohemian spot.
• In Saint-Tropez, try the laid-back beach club Le Club 55 offers fresh, simple fare just steps from the sands of Pampelonne Beach. It has a clubby vibe, typical of St. Tropez.
• In any of the towns, make sure to stop for a glass of local rosé or a refreshing pastis.

Where to stay in the French Riviera beach towns

The French Riviera’s beach towns have everything from grand luxury hotels to boutique gems and charming coastal retreats. 

We stayed inland in St Paul de Vence, but here are some places that come highly recommended. 

• In Cannes, Maison Carla Rosa is a stylish boutique option. Or go full luxury and stay at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, which inspired Fitzgerald’s Tender is the Night. 
• In Antibes, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc is an iconic luxury hotel set amidst stunning gardens with panoramic sea views. For a more budget-friendly option, La Jabotte is a charming guesthouse offering a cosy, authentic Riviera experience. 
• In Saint-Tropez, Cheval Blanc St-Tropez is the epitome of luxury, but one that’s out of reach for most of us! Lily of the Valley also looks amazing with its Philippe Starck design, but again it’s on the pricey side of things. If you’re on a budget, one of the best options is Les Lauriers.

Marseille, Cassis, and Calanques National Park

Marseille, with its historic port and vibrant energy, is a city that pulses with life and diversity and has become a hipster magnet in recent years.

In contrast, Cassis, a small seaside village just a short drive away, offers a more tranquil, picture-perfect escape. Both serve as gateways to the breathtaking Calanques National Park, where dramatic limestone cliffs plunge into turquoise waters, creating some of the most stunning landscapes in southern France. 

Cassis is our favourite of the southern beach towns with a more relaxed atmosphere than some of its more glitzy Côte d’Azur neighbours. We’ve also heard good things about La Ciotat, Toulon and Hyères.

Depending on your preference for city or small beach town vibes, base yourself in Cassis or Marseille and do a day trip to the other.

Things to do in Marseille and Cassis

In Marseille, begin by exploring the Vieux Port, where fishing boats and luxury yachts share the harbor. A visit to the iconic Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde offers sweeping views over the city and the Mediterranean. Dive into Marseille’s history at the MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations) or explore the maze-like streets of Le Panier, the city’s oldest neighborhood filled with art galleries and cafés. For something more relaxed, take a boat trip to the Château d’If, the fortress-prison made famous by The Count of Monte Cristo.

In Cassis, life revolves around the port, where you can sip wine at a waterfront café, spend time on the beach, or take a leisurely boat trip to explore the stunning calanques. If you’re a wine lover, visit one of Cassis’ local wineries to sample its renowned rosé wines.

The Calanque National Park, a series of fjord-like inlets between Cassis and Marseille, are perfect for hiking, swimming, or kayaking. The hikes are fairly challenging, so not ideal with kids. But the boat trip is accessible to all.

The Route des Crêtes, a scenic drive between Cassis and La Ciotat, offers incredible views of the coastline from dizzying cliffside vantage points. 

There are some fun activities to do in Marseille and Cassis that you can book via Get Your Guide. See a selection below or click through for more options.

Where to eat and drink in Marseille and Cassis

As you’d expect on the coast, both Marseille and Cassis are known for their seafood. Marseille is particularly famous for its local speciality, bouillabaisse, the city’s legendary fish stew. 

Here are some recommendations…

• We were told to try bouillabaisse at Le Rhul or Chez Fonfon, which both have views over the harbor. And another popular seafood spot is La Boîte à Sardine, As a vegetarian, I can only vouch for these fishy recommendations second hand, but they are well reviewed.
• In Cassis, Le Naïo is a beachside café serving local dishes and Cassis wine. 
• Nomade Cassis is one of the best bakeries I’ve ever been to (look at the lamenation on that pain au chocolat!). And Grain de Folie has excellent coffee.

Where to stay in Marseille and Cassis

Marseille has a huge variety of accommodation. We needed somewhere convenient for the train station and our journey the next morning, so we went with this modern apartment hotel, Residhome Marseille Saint Charles, which is just five minutes’ walk from the train. It was comfortable, clean and reasonably priced, so exactly what we were looking for. A double room for one night cost £60. 

Other places that are recommended include:

• C2 Hôtel offers a stylish, contemporary, luxury escape in the heart of the city. 
• Alex Hôtel, also near the train station, offers modern comforts with easy access to the city’s attractions.
• In Cassis, Les Roches Blanches is a stunning cliffside hotel with a luxurious pool and sweeping views of the sea. Or Le Jardin d’Emile is a cute boutique hotel with bright, airy rooms just steps from the beach. For more budget-conscious travellers, Hotel Le Golfe, offers simple, comfortable rooms right by the harbor.

Avignon

We didn’t go to Avignon, but it’s definitely a destination to consider adding to your Provence itinerary. It was home to the Pope in the 14^th Century and has a rich history to explore. And even if you’re not a history buff, it still looks like a beautiful place to visit. I’m not going to write a guide to somewhere I haven’t been, so I recommend you check out Le Long Weekend for tips on things to do in Avignon.

And if you do go there, think about taking a day trip to Saint-Paul de Mausole, a monastery and asylum where Van Gogh spent a year receiving treatment. While there, also visit Carrières des Lumiéres gallery, which has an immersive exhibition of Van Gogh’s works.

South of France driving times

Here is a handy breakdown of the drive times between all the stops on this itinerary:

Aix en Provence – Gordes: 70 mins

Aix-en-Provence – Moustiers Sainte Marie: 90 mins

Gordes – Valensole: 90 mins

Valensole – Moustiers Sainte Marie: 35 mins

Moustiers Sainte Marie – St Paul de Vence: 135 mins

St Paul de Vence – Nice: 35 mins

Nice – Monaco: 30 mins

Monaco – Cannes: 60 mins

Cannes – St Tropez: 90 mins

St Tropez – Cassis: 110 mins

Cassis – Marseille: 35 mins

Marseille – Aix-en-Provence: 30 mins

Aix-en-Provence – Avignon: 80 mins

Marseille – Avignon: 80 mins

Alternative one-week Provence itineraries

Here are a couple of alternatives to the full itinerary that would work well for week-long trips…

Aix-en-Provence loop

Aix-en-Provence (day trip to Cassis) – Luberon villages – Verdon Gorge (via Valensole) – Aix-en-Provence. All these stops could also be done as day trips from Aix-en-Provence if you want to base yourself in one place.

French Riviera (Nice – Marseille)

Nice (day trip to Monaco and Eze) – St-Paul de Vence/Antibes – St.Tropez (via Cannes) – Cassis/Marseille.

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