“The cats protect the city from mice, and in return, the people feed them.” The local shopkeeper told me as I was walking toward a dozen cats sitting on the stone steps at a locality near the Old Town.
On a backpacking trip to Kotor, Montenegro, I found cats on the ancient walls, in cafes, and everywhere! Stretching their bodies in the Sun and with their purrs, they indeed looked like the guardians of the city. And it is them who made me feel at home.
However, it’s not just the cats that make Kotor in Montenegro an ideal budget travel destination for backpackers. It now features in the second spot as one of the most underrated budget backpacker destinations by Bamba Travel.
Its medieval streets, historic architecture, hiking routes, and seafood offer the most affordable travel options for backpackers. Also, it is a less-crowded place than most hotspots in Western Europe.
Is there more to a Kotor Montenegro budget travel experience? We will figure out the answer in this blog. We will also talk about how to reach Kotor, Montenegro, the modes of transportation for moving around and more.
Let’s plan a trip to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Natural Beauty Of Kotor, Montenegro Speaks: Understanding Its Location
Another vivid memory I have of Kotor is how I started my hike to the Kotor Fortress before sunrise. I was halfway up, and nature was getting ready to be bathed with the first rays of the Sun.
The chirpings of birds and that smell, a mix of the scent of an oven after a cake is freshly baked, and the dew-drenched leaves created an ambiance that was inexplicable.
Nevertheless, a local shepherd offered some cheese and rakija (homemade brandy), and we talked about life. Then, the Sun illuminated the entire Kotor Bay.
Now, if not this, what is magic for a backpacker or traveler?
Now, thanks to the unique natural location of Kotor, Montenegro, you can encounter many such magical experiences. Located in the Bay of Kotor, Kotor is a coastal town of Montenegro, and it is a part of the Kotor Municipality.
It sits between the Adriatic Sea and the Dinaric Alps and has a mountainous terrain.
How To Reach Kotor, Montenegro? How Tourists From Different Parts Of the World Can Visit Kotor?
The easiest way to reach Kotor is to travel to the Tivat Airport. Located at a distance of around 7 km, it is the closest to Kotor. You have to travel the remaining route by local transport.
Podgorica Airport (40 km) and Dubrovnik Airport (44km, Croatia) are the two other airports near Montenegro.
You will get flights from major European cities to these airports, and buses also run from neighboring countries such as Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina to Podgorica and Kotor.
Furthermore, you can travel from Belgrade in Serbia to Podgorica in Montenegro and from Belgrade in Serbia to Bar in Montenegro.
In addition, if you are traveling from Italy, you can take a ferry from Ancona on Italy’s eastern coast and take a ferry to Bar in Montenegro. You will have to make a journey of around 13 hours to reach your destination.
Flights, Trains, Buses, And Other Modes of Transportation
For a backpacker, it’s a must to explore the Bay of Kotor in a boat. This boat takes you to many nearby towns and villages. However, for me, the trip to Perast was the highlight of these boat trips.
The village has fewer than 300 people, and the quaint village offers some of the grandest views.
Furthermore, if you want to move around and explore Kotor and its nearby localities by road, you will get car rentals, taxis, and shuttles.
Why Is Kotor Montenegro, Budget Travel So Popular Among Backpackers?
While Greece and Croatia get all the attention on big tourism platforms, Montenegro in the Balkans is emerging as a favorite of the budget backpack travelers, thanks to the steady numbers.
According to a report published by the International Trade Administration on 20th May 2024, tourism contributes 30% to Montenegro’s GDP. Furthermore, the country is planning to boost its tourism prospects with a great focus on the following areas.
Ecotourism
Cultural Tourism
Rural Tourism
Furthermore, another report published in ReportLinger suggests that the number of tourists to Montenegro is likely to reach 3.4 million by 2028. This is again a 2.8% rise from the number of 2.9 million tourists in 2023.
Also, the tourism revenue is expected to reach $95 million by 2028.
Now, in this scenario, Kotor is emerging as a sustainable tourism gem after a successful sustainability assessment by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).
The Port of Kotor in Montenegro, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), and the Municipality of Kotor have done a successful assessment of the city.
Vladimir Jokić, Mayor of Kotor, has commented,
“As the Mayor of Kotor, I am pleased to say that Kotor is one of the few cities in the region that has undergone an important sustainability assessment process as a tourist destination. Together with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) and CLIA, we brought together various stakeholders from public life to gather their input.
All participants from public life, city government bodies, state authorities, universities, the civil sector, the economy, and entrepreneurs took part in this process. The assessment results provided us with a clear insight into the impact of tourism on our city, which will help us develop effective strategies for sustainable tourism – that is, how we should move forward regarding tourism.”
So, Kotor today is a benchmark in sustainable tourism in the European region, and it is a budget-friendly travel destination among tourists for the following reasons.
1. Affordable Accommodation Options, Including Hostels And Guesthouses
Kotor has plenty of budget stays, from cozy guesthouses run by local families to hostels right inside the Old Town.
Many include free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and kitchen access. Prices start at around €10–€15 per night during the off-season, and you’ll often meet other travelers sharing tips over morning coffee.
2. Stunning Natural Beauty With Mountains And The Adriatic Sea
Kotor sits where the rugged Dinaric Alps meet the calm Adriatic Sea. Whether you’re hiking up to the fortress or just wandering the waterfront, every corner feels like a postcard.
The Bay of Kotor, often called Europe’s southernmost fjord, is perfect for swimming, kayaking, or just soaking in the sunset.
3. Rich Cultural And Historical Heritage In The Old Town
The Old Town is a maze of medieval lanes, Venetian palaces, and stone churches dating back to the 12th century.
Walking here feels like stepping back in time and the best part is that exploring them is absolutely free! You can easily spend hours admiring its architecture and lively squares without spending a cent.
4. Numerous Free And Low-Cost Attractions
Many Kotor Montenegro activities are budget-friendly and free. Strolling along the Marina is the most relaxing experience I had at Kotor, Montenegro.
Furthermore, the entrance fees to the museums and cathedrals here are very few. You need to just pay a few dollars.
Overall, the magic of Kotor lies in exploring the city on foot or by boat the Kotor Bay.
5. Easy Access To Hiking Trails Like The Ladder Of Kotor
1350 Steps! Yes, you have to climb 1350 steps to complete the Ladder of Kotor hike. However, climbing up so many steps is a rewarding experience as the panoramic views of the city and the surroundings are breathtaking.
6. Budget-friendly Local Cuisine And Street Food
Kotor Montenegro food is comforting and simple, an extension of the simplicity of the city. I fell in love with sell burek or the savory pastries here.
The filling in these pastries will remind you of your mother or grandmother who can create the biggest magic on the plate with the simplest ingredients.
Furthermore, the family-run taverns or konobas here served the best grilled meat and seafood at the most affordable price.
7. Proximity To Other Balkan Destinations
You can easily include visiting places such as gems like Budva, Podgorica, or Dubrovnik in your Kotor Montenegro itinerary.
Regional and international buses are available during the daytime and nighttime to explore these places on a budget.
8. Friendly Locals And A Welcoming Atmosphere
Montenegrins are hospitable, and language is never a barrier here. Many people here speak English. Especially the younger ones are well-versed in the language.
So, it does not matter whether you are visiting Kotor for the first time or the last time. You will connect easily.
9. Vibrant Backpacker Community And Social Hostels
Kotor Montenegro hostels are beyond budget-friendly accommodations. These turn out to be the local social hub for solo travelers. Many of these hostels focus on activities such as:
Hiking Trips
Group Dinners
Local Events
Pub Crawling
So, you make new friends and earn new experiences with the locals guiding you.
10. Opportunities For Volunteering And Work Exchanges
Are you a digital nomad? Or, are you staying longer in Kotor? Many cafes, hostels and eco-projects in the city offer work-exchange programs or volunteer services.
Explore platforms such as Worldpackers and Workaway to explore the listed job opportunities. Furthermore, there are many hostels and cafes where you can work for a few hours and get free accommodation and food in return.
I have found several such listings on Worldpackers. You will have to work for 20 to 24 hours a week and have to shoulder working at receptions, administration, cleaning and housekeeping. You will get a shared dormitory and one meal in exchange for these services.
How To Plan The Kotor Montenegro Budget Travel For A Week?
A week in Kotor can cost as little as $300–€400. Here is a quick breakdown.
Montenegro Budget Travel Expenses
Cost Breakdown
Accommodation in Hostels
$15–$25 per night
Meals
$5–$10 per meal at local eateries
Kotor Montenegro Transport
$10–$20 for buses and local travel
Tours and Entrance Fees
$5–$15
Total Average Daily Cost
$35-60
Top Budget-Friendly Hostels In Kotor, Montenegro
Have a look at the table below for the list of budget-friendly hostels in Kotor, Montenegro. Staying in a hostel is one of the cheap ways to travel to Kotor Montenegro for backpackers.
Hostel Name
Address
Highlights
Google Maps
Montenegro Hostel 4U
Bokeljskih brigada bb, Kotor
• 30 Seconds from the beach • Great social vibe • Rooftop terrace
I was walking through Old Town and stumbled upon a group of elderly men playing traditional Montenegrin music on guitars and accordions.
Locals stopped, clapped, and danced spontaneously. They even invited me to join in. I learnt the local dances right there on the cobblestones. Now, this is the spirit of Montenegro, it’s about living life to the fullest and understanding the magic of minimalism.
Furthermore, the main attractions such as the St. Tryphon Cathedral, the town of Perast, the Blue Cave, the Bay of Kotor, and the City Walls allow you to soak in its cultural heritage, history, and scenic beauty on a budget.
Is Kotor, Montenegro, Struggling With Overtourism?
Yes, like Venice, Barcelona, and many other major European cities, Kotor, the “Unsung” coastal beauty, is also struggling with the perils of overtourism. The rising number of cruises to the city is leading to this problem.
As a result, the locals are now advocating for higher entrance fees. So, discussions are going on about raising the entrance fee, which is 1 Euro. This is justified because housing costs are rising due to the increase in tourism, and there are also environmental concerns.
And it is not just homeowners who are worried about these growing numbers. The local shopkeepers and NGOs who work for community development and environmental issues are also concerned by the sudden boost in tourism.
During my trip, I had the opportunity to meet Ms. Mandic, an environmental activist in the city. She said, “Hundreds of tourists are visiting the city every day. They are writing the city’s future, which will be irreversible.”
The Municipality of Kotor and the local tourism authorities will monitor the numbers to maintain the pristine charm of the coastal town.
Montenegro Budget Travel: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Montenegro budget travel.
1. Are 4 Days Enough For Kotor, Montenegro?
Yes, 4 to 5 days are enough to explore the city of Kotor in Montenegro. You can walk through the Old Town, enjoy a boating tour in the Bay of Kotor, visit the nearby towns, and explore local life by having food at the family-run taverns in Kotor.
2. Is Kotor Or Budva Better?
Kotor and Budva both places are beautiful. However, Kotor is less touristy with its quaint cafes and the medieval Old Town, which stands as the eternal witness.
Furthermore, Kotor is more suitable for budget-travelers as walking, hiking, cycling and biking are the best modes of knowing this city of Montenegro.
3. Which Language Is Spoken In Montenegro?
Montenegrin is the language of the people of Montenegro. However, Montenegrin is a part of the Serbo-Croatian language variety. So, it is similar to other languages such as Serbian, Croatian, and Bosnian.
Furthermore, many people here, especially the younger ones speak in English.
4. Can You Drink Tap Water In Montenegro?
Yes, you can drink tap water in Montenegro. Furthermore, you will find fresh water springs around Lake Skadar and in the mountains.
Furthermore, food in Montenegro is also checked in labs to ensure complete safety.
5. What Are The Common Crimes In Kotor?
Burglary and theft are the most common crimes in Kotor, Montenegro. Along with pickpocketing and snatching of purses, these crimes also include theft at ATMs.
Furthermore, these crimes increase in number during the peak tourist season or the summer months.
Also, organized crimes, especially the ones related to drug smuggling, are quite common in Kotor. In fact, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime report “Montenegro-UNODC Strategic Partnership Framework (2024-2029),”
“…, organized crime in Montenegro is mostly related to drugs smuggling. Montenegro is part of the ‘traditional’ opiate route from Afghanistan to Europe, or so called ‘Balkan Route’. In terms of trafficking routes, heroin is thought to come via road to Montenegro from Albania, Kosovo or Serbia and travel further towards Croatia and other European countries.
6. What Is The Best Time To Visit Kotor, Montenegro?
The summer months of July and August are the peak months for visiting Kotor in Montenegro. However, for budget friendly travelers, November to February is the ideal time for a visit to Kotor.
Despite rainfall being a factor, these are the months for skiing and watersports in nearby mountains. Also, with the number of tourists being fewer in these months, the accommodation charges are lower than in the peak season.
On average, your daily expenses in these months will be around $5 less than the peak summer months.
Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!
The Greek islands are a gorgeous holiday destination for intrepid travellers looking to explore and learn more about the region’s rich history. There’s an extensive array of unique monuments, customs, and scenery to be seen on all of the islands, so taking a trip to view as many as possible will be the perfect way to see everything they have to offer.
The Greek islands are unique in the sense that they offer the perfect travel destination for everyone. From couples celebrating their honeymoon to solo travellers and complete families, the destination offers a complete experience for everyone. Some of the most celebrated travel websites and bloggers highly rank the Greek islands for a holiday destination.
A Beginner’s Guide To Island-Hopping In Greece:
Here’s our guide to island-hopping for first-timers keen to see the sights on these small, sunny paradises.
Think About Where You’d Like To Go:
When you first decide that a Greek island-hopping trip is the adventure you want to take, your first consideration needs to be which islands and attractions you’re going to visit. There are loads of amazing islands with incredible draws such as sandy beaches, incredible architecture and unforgettable historical monuments, so choose wisely. The best thing about organizing your own trip to view the islands is that you can set your own itinerary, so take the time to talk with your travelling companions about where you all want to go and what you want to see.
Charter-A Yacht To Make The Most Of Your Greek Island Adventure:
Travelling from island to island is best achieved by chartering a yacht, which will make for a very luxurious excursion. By hiring your own yacht you’ll be able to set your own schedule and travel in both style and comfort to as many islands as you want to see. A Greece yacht charter is one of the most memorable experiences you can have as a chapter in your travel book. Many couples who undertake this experience, as they want to make the occasion a memorable one for their loved ones.
Find Luxurious Accommodation:
When you’re planning a trip to the Greek islands it’s important that you select the perfect home-from-home for each stage of your journey. Whilst a luxurious hotel might seem tempting, the best way to see all the sights is to rent an entire property from which you can base yourself, such as the majestic Paros villas, which you can learn more about onloyalvillasluxury.com who have an extensive property portfolio. Having your own property will allow you to explore everything the island has to offer and then return to your own space where you can relax and unwind in peace and privacy. If you plan your journey right, you can save a lot of money even while staying in luxurious accommodation.
Take A Tour:
If you don’t want the hassle of organizing your own Greek island-hopping experience, then consider taking a tour where an experienced tour guide can talk you through all of the best sights across a selection of islands. Selecting a tour allows you to enjoy the splendor of the islands without having to organize the experience yourself. This will also help you focus on other aspects of your journey. Tour Guides are experienced locals and they can show you many placed that are not standard on tour experiences. You can request your travel guide to show you some of the more undiscovered or unexplored places in the Greek islands.
Prepare To Have Fun:
Whatever approach you decide to take, go to the Greek islands with an open mind and be ready to see and experience as much as you can. Pack swimwear, sunscreen, and light, airy clothing so that you don’t overheat and are ready to explore everything that this glorious array of islands has to offer. Take as many opportunities as you can during your trip so that you can return with incredible memories you can cherish for the rest of your life. Travel holidays are all about preparing in the right fashion. If you take care and plan your holiday right, it minimizes the risk of bad experiences from cropping up.
Conclusion:
The Greek islands are some of the most beautiful and enchanting travel destinations that you can hope to visit in your lifetime. It ranks high on the bucket list of most people who prefer travelling to exotic locations and unexplored destinations. From history to natural beauty, there is something for everyone who is travelling to the Greek islands.
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Winter is coming, and a transition always brings cold and uncertainty, whether it is in life or the weather. Are you not a winter person as well? What if I tell you that you can enjoy the genial warmth of summer for a few more days?
While the rest of the world shivers in the cold of October, you and your family can enjoy traveling to the top six destinations in Europe, where you will find warmth in October.
So, let’s find out where is hot in October in Europe.
Where Is Hot In October In Europe? Top 6 Places In Europe To Visit
From Rome to Madeira, the places to visit in Europe in October are as diverse as it can get!
Here are our top six favorites.
1. Rome, Italy
You may feel confused about the relevance of starting the list with a city when they were expecting beaches.
October provides the most suitable time for tourists to visit the city of Rome. The crowds of people are lower down as it is the off-season. On the other hand, people do not have to face the scorching heat of summer.
The 14- to 26-degree temperature during that time of year, throughout the day, provides the perfect climate for traveling around.
The tourists should enjoy sightseeing during this time, as the conditions provide the ideal conditions for traveling. The ambience offers the most suitable conditions for walking through the ancient streets of Rome.
This time of the year in Rome provides the perfect conditions to enjoy vino and carbonara while dining in the open air in a rooftop cafe.
Tourists should visit the museums of Rome on the first Sunday of the month, as it provides free entry to the museums.
2. Where Is Hot In October In Europe? Dalmatian Coasts In Croatia
The Dalmatian Islands of Croatia remain warm and comfortable during the times of the month that are considered some of the most beautiful places to visit. The area offers pebble beaches and charming port towns. Therefore, the ocean lovers enjoy the place during this time of the year.
The town also offers a variety of seafood options. Therefore, seafood lovers should try the available seafood in the ocean.
The place offers beautiful, rugged mountains alongside the coasts, which make it even more attractive. The place is full of islands that tourists can explore. Tourists get to see islands like Hvar, Korcula, and Brac.
The tourists should explore the charming towns and beaches, which are the best suited for visiting in October.
The temperature in the area ranges from 15 to 26 degrees, making the weather neither too hot nor too cold. Therefore, this makes it ideal for exploration.
The tourists can indulge in a plethora of activities, which include hiking, snorkeling, and swimming along the most beautiful Mediterranean coastline.
Moreover, the coastline is lined with lush green forests, which are ideal for enjoying during the evening.
3. Madeira, Portugal
Madeira is an Island located off the coast of Africa, but it is part of Portugal. The place is one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Therefore, the Island stands remote from the mainland of Portugal. Travelers should take a short ferry ride from Spain's Canary Islands.
The Island features coastlines lined with palm trees and offers ideal waters for water sports and activities, including surfing.
The volcanic islands stand tall on the ocean, which, therefore, provides some of the unique climatic conditions for grape harvesting.
October marks the grape harvesting season on Madeira; therefore, it is an ideal time to visit the islands.
The Island also provides diverse eateries. Food lovers can visit various dining establishments on the island.
The small Island offers two Michelin-star restaurants, as well, Il Gallo d'Oro and William Restaurant.
Thus, the Island serves as a paradise for all food lovers.
October brings various festivities to the Islands. The Island hosts the famous Madira Wine Festival. The locals trade wine during this festival. You should visit the place during October and taste some of the most famous wines of the year.
4. Ibiza, Spain
This October, travel to Ibiza in Spain. Ibiza offers the finest luxury accommodations for its visitors. Ibiza has established itself as a prominent luxury tourism destination. The luxury accommodations on the Island constitute a whopping 84% of the Island’s entire GDP.
The Island avoids over-tourism despite the sector’s immense contributions to the Island’s GDP. Therefore, this makes it ideal if you are willing to avoid crowds. Travelers who prefer to avoid crowds should visit Ibiza in October.
The temperature of Ibiza ranges between 16 and 23 degrees. The temperature is ideal for exploring Ibiza, and you can take in the turquoise blue waters of the Island. People should spend time on the beaches.
Staying at the luxury villas provides tourists with an incredible experience they can never have. For example, the luxury villas Ibiza Le Collectionist offer the guests the opportunity to spend time in a beautiful orchard with olive and almond trees.
5. Where Is Hot In October In Europe? Costa Del Sol, Spain
The name Costa del Sol suggests “Coast of the sun”; therefore, the place receives sunlight throughout the year. Many tourists prefer the place, and it is incredibly loved by the people who are willing to make sure that they are in the place.
The tourists find some of the best-quality restaurants, which helps people get the best food in the region.
The lack of tourists after October allows people to enjoy peace more, as they can stay far away from the crowds.
The temperature of the place ranges between 19 and 24 degrees during October. Therefore, the place serves as the perfect winter destination for you.
You should visit Marbella. The town offers golden beaches, making it an ideal winter retreat.
The Sierra Blanca mountains make the place even more beautiful. You should also visit Puerto banus, offering several coastal boutique resorts. The resorts give you an incredible experience of staying there.
Adventure lovers should go hiking and participate in other activities. Cultural activities such as visiting the pueblos or the villages and meeting the locals allow the people to ensure cultural exploration.
Moreover, walk through the pine forests, which will provide them with the most peaceful experience of their lives.
6. Kalkan, Türkiye
Kalkan is not a recognized country; however, Türkiye is a transitional country between Europe and Asia. While 97% of Türkiye falls within Asia, the rest of it can be found in Europe. Kalken falls on the European side of Türkiye.
Kalkan is located on the Mediterranean coast of Türkiye and is one of the most beautiful places to visit right before winter.
The beaches of Kalkan offer stunning coastlines and turquoise waters. The tourists should experience a massage in the Hammams. Every travel enthusiast knows that Türkiye is a food heaven. Travelers should try the most incredible food the region has to offer.
The street food especially provides a very exotic experience to the travellers.
People who love adventure should visit the Kalkan beaches. The beaches of Kalken offer wonderful opportunities for adventure sports.
The temperature of Kalkan ranges from 17 to 28 degrees Celsius.
Where Is Hot In October In Europe, And Things To Keep In Mind While Travelling
Most of the places on the mentioned list offer sunny and mild weather in October. However, people often experience odd thunderstorms in certain regions.
Kalkan in Türkiye, for instance, has sudden thunderstorms at certain times of the year. The chances of receiving rain in Kalkan increase in the later part of October.
Spain typically receives relatively little rain in October. However, tourists often face occasional sporadic rain. Therefore, while visiting the Costa del Sol, you should check for the rain in the region. Ibiza has little chance of rain in October.
Key Highlights:
What Is The South Of France?
Why Is The South Of France So Popular?
Where To Go In South Of France?
How Does A Perfect South Of France Itinerary For 7 Days Look Like?
Where To Stay In The South Of France?
Where To Visit In The South Of France On A Budget?
What Are The South Of France Cities Near The Beach?
What Are The Most Beautiful Places In Southern France For Young Adults?
What Is The Best Time To Visit The South Of France?
Home to the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix and blessed with 300 days of Sunshine in a year, the South of France is the ultimate luxury tourism destination.
The region also appeals to global travelers with the best wines, such as Bordeaux, Languedoc, Cahors, and Armagnac brandy. So, it is no wonder that the South of France is a crown jewel in the French luxury tourism landscape, about to reach $53.6 billion by 2030.
Moreover, the South of France is home to many luxurious hotels, chateaux, and villas, such as Le Collectionist luxury villas in Provence. These high-end accommodations cater to ultra-high-net-worth travelers and ensure a premium experience.
However, there is more to visiting the South of France. Natural abundance, cultural heritage, and great food make it a destination for wholesome travel delights.
In this Tour and Travel Blog, we will explore the various aspects of the South of France and why it is a dream destination. We will also share a 7-day itinerary so that you can plan the trip well.
What Is South Of France?
The South of France is a district region, comprising Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA), itself, is a combination of six district departments. Those are:
Alpes-Maritimes
Bouches-du-Rhône
Alpes-de-Haute-Provence
Hautes-Alpes
Vaucluse
Var
This region caters to every type of traveler and is almost an epitome of the natural wonders we love to visit.
The French Riviera beaches complement the rugged beauty of the Alps here. On the other hand, Provence promises the most quaint experience with vineyards, small villages, and hills smelling like lavender.
You can add to that the cultural and artistic heritage of Aix-en-Provence and the cosmopolitan vibe of cities such as Avignon and Marseille. Marseille especially indulges you with the charm of the French good life, and it’s for wanderers who just want to travel slow and connect.
Bordeaux with its best wines and vineyards, Verdon Gorge with its serene green landscape, and Camargue with its wetlands and wildlife are other prominent destinations in the South of France.
Why Is South Of France So Popular?
Gorgeous seaside towns
The majestic Alps
Roman ruins
Medieval villages
Long stretches of vineyards
The Best wines
The tranquility that makes you connect to nature!
These are reasons why everyone loves the South of France. Now, nobody will take away the best from the South of France. However, some new developments make the South of France more popular among modern travelers.
1. Better Accessibility And Travel Connectivity: How To Reach The South Of France?
The South of France is well connected to Paris. You can take a flight from Paris, and it takes around 90 minutes to cover the distance.
Furthermore, you can take the SNCF Connect sleeper train, running from Paris to Cannes or Nice. For a more luxurious journey, board Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express from Paris to Cannes.
It is an 18-hour journey with breakfast and gourmet meals.
Irrespective of the train you choose, you can buy the unlimited rail pass for the commute between Paris and the South of France.
2. Urban Improvements To Enhance The Experience Of Global Travelers
Nice has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2021. It now has the Promenade des Anglais, which is ideal for strolls and tourists who love to explore the city on foot.
Furthermore, today, the sidewalk looks beautiful with many trees and cafe terraces.
Moreover, the new Convention Center here just hosted the U.N. Ocean Conference 2025 in July. Also, it is likely to have a tram line directly connected to the airport and a pleasure port for excursions on boats.
3. Aix-en-Provence Is To Have New Cultural Sites And Updated Museums
Atelier des Lauves, the studio of the famous French impressionist, Paul Cezanne, reopened in Aix-en-Provence on 28th June, 2025.
Also, Jas de Bouffan, his family’s home, was opened for the first time.
Fondation Maeght in Saint-Paul de Vence, the first independent art foundation of France, just had an expansion to celebrate its 60th anniversary last year. After the expansion, the foundation now has an exhibition space of 5,300+ square feet.
This space shows the works of Pablo Picasso, Alberto Giacometti, and Marc Chagall.
Furthermore, Nice’s Musée Matisse reopened in 2024 after a long period of renovation work, and La Malmaison, the contemporary art exhibition space of Cannes, reopened.
4. The Celebration Of Perfume Heritage In South Of France
The South of France is the Mecca for a perfume connoisseur. The Rose et Marius in Aix-en-Provence or the factory of L’Occitane en Provence in Manosque have enhanced the tourism experience for tourists having a keen interest in fashion and perfumes.
Moreover, at Rose et Marius, you can attend a workshop and design your own perfume. On the other hand, you can register online and visit L’Occitane en Provence for a face diagnostic and get a free hand cream.
5. For The Love Of Ceramics And Pottery
Marseille, the port city of the South of France, is now emerging as the new hotspot amidst all the glamor and glitz of the French Riviera.
Since the COVID-19 era, many Parisians have also moved to Marseille for the quality of life, and the high-speed train ride to this port city from Paris is an amazing experience.
Furthermore, Aubagne, just outside this city, is a popular destination in the European ceramic landscape. Ravel Poterie, Santon Di Landro, and Louis Sicard are some important potteries here.
Where To Go In South Of France?
The South of France has many options if you want to experience the ultimate French beauty. However, here are our favorite destinations in the South of France.
1. Nice And Alpes-Maritimes
Nice, the capital, and Cannes are two landmark destinations in Alpes-Maritimes.
Furthermore, Nice is a cultural hub with Matisse and Chagall museums and the Promenade des Anglais.
Cannes, with its glitz and glamor and, of course, the much-celebrated film festival, is a global name in cultural tourism.
Also, this region has the town of Grasse, “The Perfume Capital of the World,” and Antibes, housing the Picasso Museum and wonderful beaches.
2. Bouches-du-Rhône And Marseille
Marseille, the capital of Bouches-du-Rhône, is a crown jewel in the tourism of the South of France. Some important cultural and historical landmarks here are:
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
MUCEM museum
Arles here is a standout place, being home to the Roman amphitheater and its connection with Van Gogh.
Moreover, the Camargue wetlands, with flamingos and wild horses, and the Calanques National Park with limestone cliffs are prominent natural wonders in thai region.
3. Var And Its Capital, Toulon
Mediterranean coastline
A vibrant nightlife
Rich maritime history
A beautiful harbor
Var and its capital, Toulon, are famous for all these things. Furthermore, you will love the quiet beaches of Îles d’Hyères and areas like Bandol with expansive vineyards and massive production of rosé wines.
4. Avignon And Vaucluse
Along with the quintessential Provençal countryside charm, Vaucluse remains an important historical and cultural landmark in the South of France.
Vaucluse, its capital, has a performing arts festival every year in July. On the other hand, Orange has one of the best preserved Roman theaters, and it still hosts many performances.
Pont d’Avignon and Palais des Papes are other important landmarks in Vaucluse.
In addition, Valucluse offers you the most peaceful retreat in the Luberon region, filled with beautiful rolling hills, quaint villages like Roussillon, and vineyards.
5. Alpes-de-Haute-Provence And Digne-les-Bains
With Digne-les-Bains as the capital, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence is famous for thermal baths and lavender fields.
It is also home to Gorges du Verdon, the largest canyon in Europe, and a beautiful hilltop town with a citadel, Sisteron.
Also, don’t forget to visit the Lavender Museum and the Valensole lavender plains in summer.
Moreover, if it is Jean Giono who introduced you to the South of France, you must explore Manosque, the writer’s hometown.
6. Hautes-Alpes And Gap
Hautes-Alpes is famous for the beauty of the French Alps. Gap is the capital city, and Haute-Alpes is also home to the Écrins National Park, a popular summer destination for hikers thanks to its dramatic cliffs and glaciers.
Also, Hautes-Alpes has Briançon, one of the highest mountainous cities, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the Vauban fortifications.
How Does A Perfect South Of France Itinerary For 7 Days Look Like?
Here, we have made a sample 7-day itinerary for you in the South of France. As I am yet to make it to the South of France, I have made this itinerary based on my online research and after consultation with a local travel expert.
7-Day Itinerary for the South of France Activities and Places to VisitDay 1• Exploring Marseille and traveling to Aix-en-Provence• Visiting the fountains and the Cours Mirabeau in Aix-en-ProvenceDay 2• Visiting the Luberon Region and exploring beautiful villages such as Roussillon and GordesDay 3• A trip to the Calanques National Park, boating, and kayaking thereDay 4• Visit Nice and enjoy the vibe at the Promenade des AnglaisDay 5• Monaco day tripDay 6• Explore Antibes and its Picasso MuseumDay 7• Day trip to Cannes
Where To Stay In South Of France?
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I have already mentioned that the South of France, being a luxury tourist destination, has high-end villas such as Le Collectionist villas in Provence.
Furthermore, you will find many short-term and long-term holiday rentals for improved privacy at a more reasonable rate.
Also, Hotel Port Palace in Monte Carlo or Le Negresco in Nice are some luxurious hotels in this region.
Moreover, the Provence region, Côte d'Azur, and Languedoc-Roussillon have some amazing campsites if you want to spend your days in Southern France in the company of nature.
What Is The Best Time To Visit The South Of France?
April to May and September to October are the best months to visit the South of France.
In April and May, you will see the lavender in full bloom, while the summer is yet to set, keeping the temperature within 20-25 degrees Celsius.
On the other hand, September to October is the ideal time to explore the beaches and other coastal getaways of the South of France.
South Of France: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the frequently asked questions about the South of France.
1. Where To Visit In The South Of France On A Budget? If you are traveling on a budget, you can explore the following destinations in the South of France. • Antibes• Nice• Avignon• Cannes• Saint Paul de Vence• Monaco• RoussillonFurthermore, while traveling on a budget, you can choose Nice as your base. It has the most affordable holiday rentals. Also, you can easily take train trips from Nice and explore places like Monaco. Also, cook your own meals to avoid spending a fortune at expensive restaurants. 2. What Are The Most Beautiful Places In Southern France For Young Adults? From classic French Riviera destinations to a place with beautiful lemon groves, the South of France has plenty to offer to young adult tourists. Here are our favorites.• Nice with its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and of course, the Promenade des Anglais• Cannes with its boutiques and all the love for films• Saint-Tropez with its happening beach clubs and high-end shopping experience• Menton, with its vibrant buildings, lemon groves, and proximity to the Italian border 3. What Are The South Of France Cities Near Beach? Cannes, Nice, Saint-Tropez, Marseille, and Menton are the most beautiful cities near the beaches in the South of France. 4. What Is The Nicest Part Of The South Of France? Provence is the nicest part of the South of France. Artistic heritage, Roman ruins, beautiful lavender fields, great wines and food, and charming hilltop villages. Furthermore, blessed with the Mediterranean Coast and the Verdon Gorge, it is also a popular destination for watersports. 5. What Is The Safest Part Of the South Of France? Bordeaux, Toulouse, Monaco, and Aix-en-Provence are some of the safest places to stay in the South of France. These places have low crime rates, and the chances of encountering violent crimes are pretty rare. However, the French Riviera has frequent cases of petty theft.
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