The South of France is renowned for its variety of landscapes that are just waiting to be discovered. Picture endless vineyards, lavender and sunflower fields, charming towns, the azure waters of the Mediterranean and the breath taking Pyrenees. It’s no wonder that many creative folk have found inspiration here! To inspire you, here are our top seven places to visit in the South of France.
1. Lyon
Sitting at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, Lyon is a city with a laidback vibe. As the gastronomic capital of France, you must take advantage of its incredible food scene. Go fancy at one of its 21 Michelin-starred restaurants, go rustic by having a quick bite at one of its historic bouchons, or grab a moreish praline brioche from a local boulangerie. Lyon is also an easy city to explore on foot and using their public transport system. Take the funicular to the top of Fourvière Hill for impressive views across the city, or keep your eyes peeled in Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) for secret entrances to their traboules (historic passageways used by the silk workers).
2. Avignon
Introducing the City of the Popes, Avignon. Not only was it the previous seat of the Popes with its Palace of the Popes, but it is also a fortress city with ramparts circling the centre of the city. Avignon is full of art, theatre, museums and culture so it’s the perfect place for history or art enthusiasts. It’s also an easy city for day trips to the ancient Pont du Gard or Chateauneuf-du-Pape for a day amongst the vines.
3. Arles
As you wander through charming Arles, it’s easy to see why Vincent van Gogh found so much inspiration here. From ancient Roman ruins and its riverside promenade to colourful window joinery, there are so many different points of view that have created the masterpieces we know of today.
4. Aix-en-Provence
Aix-en-Provence is a special jewel of the South of France. It’s a stunning city that another famous artist drew inspiration from – Paul Cézanne. He was born and raised here, and his paintings reflect his love for his hometown. If you’re after some downtime and a great spot for people-watching, take a leisurely stroll down the Cours Mirabeau. This is Aix-en-Provence’s main boulevard with plenty of cafés for you to relax in, like Les Deux Garçons where Cézanne spent a lot of his time.
5. Carcassonne
The medieval city of Carcassonne is found in the heart of the Languedoc region. Carcassonne is an impressive citadel, built as a pre-Roman settlement with watch towers and double-walled fortifications. It is so impressive that the UNESCO World Heritage Convention has proclaimed it as the finest remains of medieval fortifications in Europe! Don’t miss exploring this awe-inspiring piece of France’s 13th century history.
6. Nice
Previously a retreat for the European elite in the 19th century, Nice is a perfect slice of the French Riviera. It has a mix of the old and new, from Vieux Nice (the Old Town which largely remains as it was in the 1700’s) to its range of boutique shops. Nice is home to one of the most iconic boulevards in France – the Promenade des Anglais. You’ll instantly spot its ‘Le Chaise Bleu’ (the blue chairs) which feature in many travellers’ photos.
7. Marseille
Last but not least is Marseille, the oldest city in France. Marseille was founded by the Greeks in 600BC and is now the capital of the Provence region. With its prime seaside location, you’ll be drawn to wander through its Vieux Port filled with bustling markets, quaint townhouses and boats bobbing away in the harbour. Whilst hilly, we recommend Marseille’s oldest district, Le Panier. Explore the colourful murals splashed across buildings, the marble interiors of Cathédrale La Major, and its sunny squares.
It’s easy to see why the South of France is such a traveller’s paradise! If this region is on your bucket list, explore it on an Avalon Waterways river cruise or a Globus or Cosmos tour.
