13 Top Destinations in Southern France To Add to Your Bucket List
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Southern France has pristine waters, picturesque views, stunning beaches, and exquisite gastronomy. With hoards of tourists visiting these enigmatic locations every year, it is home to some of the most beautiful sites that leave you feeling like you’re in a Disney movie.
1. Saint Tropez
Originating as a fishing village, Saint Tropez is a stunning city filled with some of the best beaches in France. The alluring waters and luxury resorts make for one of the hottest summer adventures you’ll ever have. Early breakfast at La Tarte Tropézienne with their freshly brewed coffee and a stroll to the Portalet Tower through the narrow cobblestone streets make for a relaxing evening.
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2. Cannes
Home to the infamous Cannes Film Festival, this city is nothing short of perfection. For history buffs, visiting the church of Notre Dame d’Esperance is a dream. But the heart of the town lies at the bustling street of La Croisette. Lined with designer boutiques, restaurants with mouth-watering food, and exotic hotels that even have private beaches, Cannes should be at the top of your bucket list.
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3. Nice
Nice is known for many things, be it the voluptuous Bay of Angels, given its name by the British due to the shape of the beach, or the mandatory stroll on the Promenade des Anglais seafront that makes for Instagram-worthy pictures. This romantic hotspot has orange-hued sunsets that fill the sky and places like Cours Saleya flower market, where you can purchase bright and colorful flowers for your partner.
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4. Aix-en-Provence
The quintessential lifestyle of southern France is squeezed into the Aix-en-Provence. This is one of the best vacation spots with open-air markets, fountains across the city, and Cours Mirabeau with tall, looming palm trees and many sidewalk cafes. To truly experience the place, you should check out their thermal baths turned into spa and wellness centers.
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5. Monaco
If you want extra adventure and dazzling views, heading to Monaco is ideal. You will have a blast with several yacht shows, car races like the annual Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco, and events at the Opera House. But there’s more. Casino de Monte Carlo is an iconic marble-and-gold architectural masterpiece, and you can even enjoy the Musée Océanographique de Monaco aquarium.
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6. Saint Paul De Vence
Saint Paul De Vence is a must-visit little village that attracts artists worldwide. With stone structures and fortifications, this perched village is found atop a mountain, so you’ll witness some of the most scenic views from here. From Medieval fortresses to the enigmatic art museum of Fondation Maeght, it’s safe to say you won’t have a dull day here.
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7. Antibes
When you think of Antibes, the first thing that comes to mind is a luxury beach resort. But there is much more here than just that. Early morning walks overlooking the beautiful turquoise waters dotted with tiny yachts and vibrant art pieces at the renowned Picasso Museum make this city a complete package. The phenomenal beaches are just the cherry on top.
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8. Porquerolles
Breathe in the fresh, pollution-free oxygen at Porquerolles, where you’ll find no cars, which means the air is nice and crisp. Additionally, you can sunbathe on the white beaches and enjoy a delicious margarita to fully get into the holiday spirit. Pack a picnic from the mainland or enjoy a hearty meal at the fancy L’Olivier restaurant.
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9. Les Baux De Provence
One of the most visited villages in Southern France, Les Baux De Provence is a quaint little place that feels like a fairy tale. Found atop a mountain, this place has splendid castles, Musée des Santons with figurines that exhibit traditional costumes, and stone architecture reminiscent of postcard photos. You can even take guided tours to immerse yourself in the culture and history of Les Baux De Provence.
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10. Camargue
Though Camargue is not as well known as some other places on our list, it’s equally stunning and hidden from jam-packed tourist crowds. Lined with natural beauty like salt flats, beaches illuminated by the golden sun, and marshes with luscious greenery, the place is filled with around 400 species of birds. Strolling around the place, you might even spot rosy flamingos.
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11. Marseille
If you’ve decided to venture to Marseille, consider exploring the nooks and corners on foot for a candid experience. Kayak atop the glistening water, head up to the highest point where the opulent basilica is adorned with marble or visit the grand castle floating amidst blue waters named Château d’If. For food lovers, an entire food tour takes your taste buds on a joyride.
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12. Toulouse
Toulouse has 2000 years of history with its distinct thrift stores where you can splurge your money, Université du Capitole, the infamous law facility open to the public, and beaches that leave your mouth hanging wide open. This town even has giant robot monsters and spiders, made by a Nantes-based company, that move around and are a true marvel of technology.
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13. Cassis
Cassis is a hidden gem nestled along the French Riviera, offering a serene escape with its picturesque coastline and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Known for its white cliffs and the sheltered inlets called “calanques,” Cassis enchants visitors with its natural beauty.
The town’s charming port, lined with colorful traditional fishing boats and bustling with quaint cafes and restaurants, is the perfect backdrop for a leisurely afternoon. Adventure enthusiasts can embark on a boat tour to explore the majestic calanques. At the same time, wine connoisseurs will delight in visiting the local vineyards that produce some of the region’s most celebrated white wines.
Cassis also boasts a vibrant market where you can find fresh local produce, artisan crafts, and regional delicacies, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking relaxation and a taste of Provencal culture.
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Georgia Konidari is a nationally syndicated writer and the creator of World Wild Schooling, a digital platform dedicated to travel. She is on a mission to explore the globe and share her experiences with fellow travelers. She has been featured on MSN, the Associated Press Wire and more. You can follow Georgia on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest and YouTube.
