South of France Destination Guide

Known for its glitzy film festival, Cannes is one of the best places in the South of France for luxury and style. Stroll along La Croisette, relax on pristine beaches and indulge in upscale shopping and dining. Wander through Le Suquet, the old quarter of Cannes, for charming streets and stunning views, or explore the Marché Forville for fresh local produce. Stay at the timeless Carlton Cannes, a luxurious landmark offering world-class sea views, or retreat to the elegant Château Saint-Martin & Spa, where serene gardens and impeccable service meet opulent luxury.

Nice should be at the top of your list for where to go in the South of France. It's the unofficial capital of the Côte d'Azur and is famous for its stunning promenade, charming old town, and vibrant cultural scene. The Promenade des Anglais beckons with its pebbly beaches, while Vieux Nice's colorful facades and bustling markets create an irresistible vibe. Don't miss the Musée Matisse or the Marc Chagall National Museum for a dose of culture and explore the Colline du Château for panoramic city views. For a luxurious stay, Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat offers classic elegance and breathtaking Mediterranean views, while Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel blends Mediterranean charm with contemporary style and comfort.

Once a quaint fishing village, St Tropez has transformed into a magnet for international jet setters. Sipping rosé at Pampelonne Beach, people-watching at the harbor, and savoring Provence Alpes-Côte d'Azur food in picturesque squares are experiences that define St Tropez. Exploring the Citadel for a glimpse of history, visiting the Musée de l'Annonciade for modern art, or strolling through the bustling Place des Lices market offers unique insight into this charming area. The hillside Château de la Messardière, with its panoramic views and indulgent spa, as well as the legendary Hotel Byblos, known for its vibrant nightlife and Mediterranean-style luxury, are the perfect places to stay and enhance your St Tropez stay.

Strewn with tiny towns, vineyards, olive groves, and iconic lavender fields, Provence is where to go in the South of France to switch off and sink into the slow way of life. Vacations here are all about relaxing, whether for a long weekend or a seven-day break. Hotels in Provence blend perfectly into their surroundings, often converted out of ancient buildings and perched on hilltops. Hotel Crillon Le Brave dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, its rooms are spread over nine former village houses, and it’s well-suited for exploring or a fly-and-flop retreat. Villa Gallici, a stunning 18th-century mansion in Aix-en-Provence, boasts a sophisticated baroque design. Part of Relais & Châteaux, it offers decadent interiors and top-notch service, perfect for delving into the city's charm. Families will love La Bastide de Gordes, which retains a classical 18th-century theme, while having all the facilities you could need, from a kids’ club to a spa.

Nice is undoubtedly one of the best places in the South of France to experience a unique culinary journey. Le Chantecler at the historic Hotel Negresco is a Michelin-starred gem, where chef Virginie Basselot serves contemporary cuisine that celebrates the region's finest ingredients. Opt for the set menu to enjoy her signature dishes like poultry with kumquat and pistachio. Jan, another Michelin-starred restaurant led by South African chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen, blends South African flavors with French cuisine in a tasting menu that merges sweet, sour, and spicy notes. Don't miss his cheese bar across the street, featuring 20 varieties and exquisite accompaniments.

For a more laid-back atmosphere, La Petite Maison offers Provençal classics like Niçoise salad and pissaladière in a "sharing" style, all in a rustic setting. These spots are frequented by celebrities like Bono and Elton John. And no visit to Nice is complete without a trip to Cours Saleya Market, one of the most vibrant markets in the city. Buzzing with activity, this eclectic marketplace is famous for its fresh produce, flowers, and artisanal crafts. At the same time, Mondays transform the market into a high-end flea market with nearly 200 vintage stalls.

St Tropez is the epitome of glamour and indulgence, offering visitors a taste of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur food amid the jet-set lifestyle. The Place des Lices Market, held every Tuesday and Saturday, is the place to find fresh produce, cheeses, and sausages while also hunting for antiques and trinkets under the majestic plane trees. In July and August, the Marché Nocturne transforms the town's evenings with artisanal crafts, food stalls, and local delicacies, giving visitors a vibrant taste of the region. For picnic essentials like fruits, cheeses, and bread, head to the Ramatuelle Market in Place de l'Ormeau, open on Sundays and Thursdays, and enjoy a leisurely beach day. For a luxurious dining experience, Château de la Messardière offers gourmet meals at its hilltop retreat, with sweeping Mediterranean views. Its restaurants, L'Acacia and Auberge des Maures are known for their exceptional Provencal cuisine, making this hillside retreat one of the best places in the region to savor the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur food.

Cannes blends culinary excellence with Riviera glamour, making it one of the best places in the South of France for food lovers. The Carlton Restaurant at the legendary Carlton Cannes serves up Mediterranean flavors with an elegant twist. Its refined setting and seafront location make every meal a luxurious experience. For a more local touch, the Marché Forville is the beating heart of Cannes' food scene, where fresh produce, local specialties, and seafood stalls entice visitors and chefs alike. Pair up with a local chef for a guided tour or shop for picnic essentials before heading to the nearby beaches. High above Cannes, the serene Château Saint-Martin & Spa offers gourmet dining at Le Saint-Martin, where chef Jean-Luc Lefrançois crafts Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a romantic hilltop setting with panoramic views.

Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur food is a serious highlight in this particular area of the region. Whether that's in a rustic hidden gem, the colourful market, or an immaculate restaurant. Market wandering is practically a must when you’re in Provence, and Lubéron has a weekly one with delicious food stalls and is worth a visit for the atmosphere and entertainment alone. Stock up on chocolates, honey, oils, and candied fruits. From Wednesday to Sunday, Le Thor, near Avignon, fills its huge car park with pots of herbs, tomatoes, olives, fruit, artisan breads, and an iconic paella. Restauranteurs and gourmands come from far and wide for Le Thor’s market.

Mitch in Aix-en-Provence is a favorite amongst those in the know, with little digital presence, this unassuming, romantic restaurant is family-run and serves up creative dishes made with ingredients from Provence and Languedoc. Perched on the top of Gordes village, L’Orangerie is one of the most beautiful restaurants in the area, with a fabulous view of the Luberon Valley below. In Avignon, there’s the classic La Mirande with a Michelin star, which serves typical French fine dining on crisp white tablecloths, surrounded by pristine interiors. Or for something a little more avant-garde, try Sevin, where a modern menu with incredible wines is served in a Medieval setting.