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.
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 Visit
Day 1
• Exploring Marseille and traveling to Aix-en-Provence • Visiting the fountains and the Cours Mirabeau in Aix-en-Provence
Day 2
• Visiting the Luberon Region and exploring beautiful villages such as Roussillon and Gordes
Day 3
• A trip to the Calanques National Park, boating, and kayaking there
Day 4
• Visit Nice and enjoy the vibe at the Promenade des Anglais
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.
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 • Roussillon
Furthermore, 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.
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!
Welcome to Marseille, the enchanting gateway to the South of France!
Nestled on the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean Sea, this captivating city is a harmonious blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
As you step into Marseille, prepare to be swept away by its irresistible charms and the myriad of experiences that await.
Marseille boasts a fascinating past that dates back over 2,600 years, making it one of the oldest cities in France.
Explore the Vieux Port, the iconic heart of the city, and witness a tapestry of colorful fishing boats bobbing in the sparkling azure waters.
For history enthusiasts, visiting the historic neighborhood of Le Panier is an absolute must.
Hidden gems await around every corner, from ancient churches like the Cathédrale de la Major to the intriguing MuCEM, the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations.
Whether you're captivated by its ancient history, tantalized by its culinary delights, or mesmerized by its natural beauty, Marseille has something to offer every traveler.
So, pack your sense of adventure and prepare to be embraced by the joie de vivre that permeates every corner of this remarkable city.
Marseille invites you to create unforgettable memories. Embrace the Mediterranean spirit and embark on a journey of discovery unlike any other.
The enchanting city of Marseille awaits—let the adventure begin!
Unveiling The Magic Of Marseille: A Must-Do Guide
Marseille offers an array of attractions that will captivate every traveler. It has a rich historical heritage and diverse cultural scene, its breathtaking natural beauty and culinary delights,
Join us as we embark on a journey through the enchanting streets of Marseille. In this article, we are going to uncover the top things to do and see in this Mediterranean gem.
Explore The Vieux Port
Begin your Marseille adventure at the iconic Vieux Port, the city's beating heart. Marvel at the picturesque view of fishing boats and luxury yachts, and take a leisurely stroll along the walk.
Indulge in some people-watching while sipping a café au lait at one of the charming cafés or sample fresh seafood at the lively fish market.
Discover Le Panier
Step back in time as you wander through the historic neighborhood of Le Panier. Lose yourself in the maze of narrow streets lined with colorful buildings adorned with vibrant street art.
Explore hidden squares, visit charming boutiques and galleries, and don't miss the opportunity to admire the stunning Cathédrale de la Major. It is one of the modern architecture of the MuCEM.
Ascend To Basilique Notre-Dame De La Garde
Make your way up the hill to the majestic Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, an iconic symbol of Marseille. Take in the panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea from the basilica's terrace.
Admire the interior adorned with intricate mosaics and religious artifacts, and soak in the serene ambiance of this spiritual sanctuary.
Delight In The Culinary Delights
Marseille's gastronomy is a feast for the senses. Indulge in the world-renowned bouillabaisse, a flavorful seafood stew, and savor the delicate flavors of local dishes such as aioli, panisse, and pieds paquets. Visit the lively Marché du Vieux Port to explore the vibrant food stalls. Grab some Provençal specialties from the seafood restaurant in Marseille.
Discover The Calanques
The Calanques, a series of stunning limestone cliffs and hidden coves along the coastline, will enthrall nature enthusiasts. Embark on a boat tour or hike through the rugged trails to witness the pristine beauty of these natural wonders.
Remember your swimsuit, as you'll have the opportunity to take refreshing dips in the crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Immerse Yourself In Culture
Marseille boasts a thriving cultural scene that caters to all tastes.
Visit the Musée d'Histoire de Marseille to delve into the city's fascinating past or explore contemporary art at the MAC. You could try catching a performance at the world-renowned Opéra de Marseille.
The neighborhood of La Plaine comes alive with street performers, artists, and musicians who offer a vibrance.
Soak Up The Sun At The Beaches
With its Mediterranean climate, Marseille is blessed with many beautiful beaches.
Relax on the sandy shores of Prado Beach and indulge in water sports at Plage des Catalans. Escape to the
beautiful beaches of Calanque de Sormiou and Calanque de Morgiou.
Unwind, soak up the sun, and take a dip in the refreshing Mediterranean waters.
Conclusion
With its captivating blend of history, culture, nature, and gastronomy, Marseille promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor.
From exploring its ancient streets and absorbing the vibrant atmosphere of its markets to savoring delicious cuisine and immersing yourself in its natural wonders, Marseille offers a wealth of activities and attractions that will leave you enchanted.
So, pack your bags, embrace the Mediterranean spirit, and get ready to embark on a journey through the magic of Marseille.
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Cumbria is a stunning region in the northwest of England, renowned for its unspoiled wilderness and picturesque Lake District. With wild moorlands, immense mountain ranges and beautiful lakes, Cumbria provides a wealth of experiences that make it one of the most desirable places to visit in the UK. Whether you are looking for an action-packed holiday or just want to relax in some stunning countryside scenery, Cumbria has something for everyone.
From ancient villages steeped in history to modern cities brimming with culture, there's plenty to explore here. There are numerous activities available such as hiking and biking through breathtaking landscapes or taking part in water sports at Lake Windermere.
History Of Cumbria
The Lake District National Park, covering most of Cumbria, offers visitors some truly breathtaking views due to its mountainous terrain interspersed with picturesque lakes – making it one of England's most popular tourist destinations since Victorian times! Originally a rural area largely untouched by industry or modernisation, it has evolved significantly over time yet managed to retain much of its original charm thanks to efforts made by conservationists and locals alike – meaning that those looking for peaceful walks through stunning landscapes will not be disappointed when visiting this unique corner of Northern England!
Places To Visit
Cumbria is home to many stunning and historic villages that are well worth visiting. The village of Windemere, which was first established in the 12th century, is one such example; here you can stroll through its cobbled streets while admiring the quaint cottages and Georgian buildings or take a boat ride across the lake for some stunning views. Other popular places include Grasmere with its picture-perfect waterfalls and Keswick with its wonderful mountain scenery – both excellent spots for outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling.
Last but not least Cumbria offers visitors sites that showcase incredible natural beauty too! From tranquil lakeside scenes in Ullswater or Coniston Water to towering peaks at Scafell Pike (England’s highest peak) – there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring sights waiting around every corner here! For those wanting a more relaxed experience then why not try one of Cumbria's many nature reserves? These special areas contain some rare species including red squirrels, otters, and ospreys – perfect if you want to get close up with wildlife without disturbing it too much!
Things To Do
Hiking and adventuring in the Lake District is an activity that can be enjoyed by all ages. With its rolling hills, tranquil lakes, and rugged mountain ranges, Cumbria is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in Britain. The region offers a wide range of trails for both experienced hikers and those looking for a stroll around the landscape. There are scenic routes through forests and riverside paths leading up to breathtaking summits – perfect for taking in panoramic views over the National Park! For those looking for something more challenging, there are also plenty of difficult climbs available which require technical skills such as scrambling or rock climbing.
Exploring local markets and cultural centers is another great way to immerse yourself in Cumbrian life during your stay here. From vibrant street markets like Keswick's Saturday Market where you can pick up unique souvenirs or try delicious local dishes made with fresh produce from nearby farms; to historic towns like Ambleside with their abundance of indie shops selling locally crafted goods - these places offer visitors an insight into everyday life in this beautiful corner of England that cannot be found anywhere else!
Finally, no visit to Cumbria would be complete without taking time out just to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery on offer here! Whether it’s spending time peacefully fishing on one of its many lakes or simply sitting back admiring views from one of its many viewpoints – there’s something incredibly calming about being surrounded by natural beauty while breathing clean air far away from any hustle & bustle. So make sure you take some time out during your trip here so you can truly appreciate what makes this part of England so special!
Accommodation
Accommodation in Cumbria is as varied as the landscape itself, and there are plenty of options to choose from depending on what type of experience you’re looking for. Campsites and caravan parks in Cumbria offer a great way to immerse yourself in nature while still having access to modern amenities such as showers, toilets, and laundry facilities.
Cumbria also offers other accommodations, including a wide range of hotels to suit your budget, holiday cottages to let, and traditional camping sites for tents and touring caravans. If you do choose to camp, take note of our camping tips.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cumbria is a wonderful location to visit for a truly enjoyable vacation. With its stunning views and abundance of outdoor activities, it's perfect for individuals, couples, or families looking to experience the beauty of nature firsthand. The region also has an incredibly rich culture and history that can be explored through its folk songs, quaint villages, and historic sites. Whether you're after adventure or relaxation this part of England really does have something for everyone – so don't miss out on the chance to explore all that Cumbria has to offer!
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When it comes to planning a holiday getaway, few destinations rival the charm and allure of Italy. With its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, mouthwatering cuisine, and romantic ambiance, Italy has captured the hearts of travelers worldwide.
This article delves into why spending your holidays in Italy is an unforgettable experience, particularly when you rely on specialized agencies such as Italia Sweet Italia, that will take you to the most beautiful places and sample all the culinary delights.
Italy has long captured the hearts of globetrotters, offering a perfect blend of history, art, and stunning landscapes. Among its many charming regions, Abruzzo and Puglia emerge as hidden gems, each with its distinct allure.
Abruzzo: Where Nature and History Converge
Exploring Abruzzo's Majestic Mountains
Nestled in the Apennine Mountains, Abruzzo boasts breathtaking natural beauty. From the Gran Sasso peaks to the rugged beauty of the Majella National Park, this region offers a haven for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.
Tracing History through Medieval Villages
Abruzzo's history comes to life in its medieval villages. Villages like Santo Stefano di Sessanio and Scanno transport visitors back in time with their cobblestone streets and ancient architecture. Exploring these villages offers a glimpse into the region's rich past.
Savoring Abruzzo's Gastronomic Treasures
No visit to Abruzzo is complete without indulging in its culinary treasures. Delight your taste buds with dishes like "arrosticini" - succulent skewers of lamb - and "maccheroni alla chitarra," a pasta specialty unique to the region.
Puglia: A Coastal Gem
Basking in Puglia's Stunning Beaches
Puglia, on the other hand, lures travelers with its stunning coastline. Crystal-clear waters and golden sands await at beaches like Baia dei Turchi and Porto Selvaggio. Relaxing by the sea and soaking in the Mediterranean sun is a must-do here.
Immersing in the Trulli Mystique
Puglia's iconic Trulli houses in Alberobello are a sight to behold. These cone-shaped dwellings are not only charming but also carry historical significance. Exploring the narrow streets and staying in a Trullo provides a unique and immersive experience.
Indulging in Puglia's Authentic Cuisine
Puglia's cuisine is a celebration of fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. From the famous "orecchiette" pasta to the exquisite olive oil, the flavors of Puglia are deeply rooted in its agricultural heritage.
Comparing Abruzzo and Puglia
As you consider these two regions for your Italian getaway, let's compare their distinct features:
Landscape Diversity: Mountains vs. Coastline
Abruzzo captivates with its mountainous terrain, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers. In contrast, Puglia's allure lies in its expansive coastline, inviting travelers to relax by the sea.
Architectural Marvels: Medieval Villages vs. Trulli Houses
Abruzzo's medieval villages showcase architectural heritage, while Puglia's Trulli houses offer a unique glimpse into the past, making both regions historically intriguing.
Culinary Delights: Gastronomic Contrasts
Abruzzo's hearty dishes reflect its mountainous landscape, while Puglia's cuisine highlights its coastal bounty. Both promise an unforgettable culinary journey.
Choosing Your Ideal Italian Getaway
When deciding between Abruzzo and Puglia, consider your interests. Are you drawn to history, mountain vistas, and medieval charm? Abruzzo might be your match. If sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and unique architecture captivate you, Puglia could be your dream destination.
Conclusion
Abruzzo and Puglia await your exploration in the heart of Italy's enchanting landscapes. Whether you seek the rugged beauty of mountains or the soothing embrace of the Mediterranean coastline, these regions promise a holiday of captivating experiences, rich history, and unforgettable flavors.
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