15+ Beautiful Places in the South of France to Visit

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Let us guess. You’ve watched too many French travel blogs, and now you’re stuck thinking about where to visit. After all, there are too many of these chic roads and pleasant small towns with secrets in every corner. We’d feel the same as you if we were in your shoes.

So, which are the most beautiful places in the south of France?

Well, from sunbathing on the iconic Plage de Pampelonne in Saint-Tropez, wandering through the lavender-scented Plateau de Valensole, or exploring the art-filled streets of Saint-Paul de Vence, the list goes on!

Also, each destination offers a unique charm, inviting visitors to discover the vibrant cultures that make the South of France a dream destination.

Keep reading to find out!

Key Takeaways:
➜ Enjoy activities like snorkeling, deep diving, laser tag, or simply lounging by the crystalline waters, followed by delectable dining experiences at renowned restaurants.
➜ Discover the charm of quaint villages and medieval towns such as Saint-Paul de Vence, Gordes, and Èze, each offering unique experiences like art exploration, market days, and historic sites.
➜ Experience diverse landscapes, rare fauna, and exhilarating activities like paragliding and wildlife spotting while relishing in local cuisine and hospitality.

1. Breathtaking Coastlines and Beaches in the South of France

Melt away your stress and worries by indulging in the sun-kissed, sandy beaches in the south of France on the French Riviera and its delightful offerings. 

There is so much more to these beaches than it looks, as they have something for everyone, whether you’re outgoing or reserved.

Plage Paloma, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Best Time to Visit – From May through the end of September.

On the amazing Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula, Plage Paloma is a true beauty along the breathtaking coastline of the French Riviera. 

“Named after the renowned fashion designer Paloma Picasso, this scenic beauty on the northern side of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is one you must not miss during your stay.”

Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine sandy shores, this beach offers a tranquil escape, surrounded by lush greenery and rugged cliffs. 

Visitors can also relax on the sun-kissed sands, take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean, or enjoy the stunning views of the bay and nearby cliffs. 

With its natural beauty and serene atmosphere, Plage Paloma stands out as one of the most beautiful places in the south of France, perfect for those seeking a scenic and peaceful beach experience.

Plage de Pampelonne, Saint-Tropez

Best Time to Visit – Spring (April-May) and Early Fall (September-October)

Plage de Pampelonne, located near the glamorous town of Saint-Tropez, is one of the best places in the south of France for young adults, with its expansive stretch of golden sand and azure waters. Spanning nearly five kilometers, this iconic beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and a vibrant atmosphere.

Flanked by chic beach clubs and charming cafes, it provides both a relaxing retreat and a lively social scene. The gentle waves and scenic backdrop of rolling hills and Mediterranean flora make Plage de Pampelonne a standout destination, embodying the breathtaking coastline that defines the region as one of the most beautiful places in the South of France.

Plage du Midi, Cannes

Best Time to Visit – Spring (April-May) or late summer (End of July-August)

Plage du Midi, nestled in the heart of Cannes, is a stunning example of the South of France’s breathtaking coastline. Stretching along the Mediterranean, this golden sandy beach offers visitors spectacular views of the sparkling blue sea and the distant Lérins Islands.

Known for its serene ambiance and family-friendly atmosphere, Plage du Midi is perfect for leisurely sunbathing, swimming, and beachside strolls. 

With its palm-fringed promenade and proximity to Cannes’ vibrant cultural and culinary scene, Plage du Midi stands out as one of the most beautiful places in the South of France, ideal for both relaxation and exploration.

2. Captivating Countryside and Lavender Fields

Next, we move onto the quaint countryside of southern France and some of the most globally popular places, the lavender fields. The sheer beauty and activities around here make it more of a worthy holiday destination to venture into.

Plateau de Valensole, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence

Best Time to Visit – mid-June to mid-July

Literally translating to ‘Valley of the Sun’, Plateau de Valensole is an elegant sunny town of tiered streets and houses in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. This beautiful town boasts its renowned lavender fields and ancient architecture, with iconic Juliet balconies adorning the scenery.

If you’re visiting the capital of the lavender region, make sure to stroll over to Les Grandes Marges.

It’s a 4-generation family-owned lavender farm with beautifully arranged bouquets and organic products to take home as a token of Valensole.

You can also take the scenic route along the Boulevard Frédéric Mistral and discover the many cafes and bistros strewn around the area. 

As one of the most beautiful small towns in the south of France, it’s a haven for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking the perfect charm of Provence’s iconic lavender fields.

Sault-en-Provence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Best Time to Visit – mid-June to mid-July

Being one of the main popular stops during Lavender Tours, Sault-en-Provence is a lovely and appealing commune atop a hill located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur.

You’ll get the chance to partake in various Lavender festivals and be a part of this wondrous culture of Sault-en-Provence. While you’re at it, take a tour of the Romanesque church, Notre Dame de la Tour, and relish in the rich history of the place for a delightful experience.

Lastly, on this part of the South of France map, do try the popular and delectable macarons, nougats, and lavender honey!

Luberon Valley, Central Provence

Best Time to Visit – June to August

Home to century-old traditions, in the heart of Provence, the Luberon Valley has never failed to preserve its alluring Provencal charm through the years.

This area in Central Provence is home to several stunning and picturesque villages, 5 of them (Gordes, Menerbes, Lourmarin, Ansouis, and Roussillon) classified as ‘Les Plus Beaux Villages de France’ (The Most Beautiful Villages of France).

Aside from boasting magnificent lavender fields, you can visit one of the many castles and forts in the villages of Luberon, like the Gordes castle and the Buoux Fort.

You’re always a few steps away from the nearest winery for a delectable and memorable dinner. Hence, make sure to try out their signature bouillabaisse paired with one of their dry white wines for a delightful flavor to remember.

3. Picturesque Villages and Medieval Towns

Moving onto the quaint and endearing villages and medieval towns teeming with a rich history of the past. Here, expect to gaze upon eye-catching architecture, learn more about the history of these French Riviera towns, and take abundant pictures.

Saint-Paul de Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Best Time to Visit – April to September

Saint-Paul de Vence, one of the oldest medieval towns on the French Riviera, is a beautiful medieval-walled city known for its emphasis on art, literature, and cinematography.

Known as the artist’s paradise, this rich, historical village has lots to see.

Moving on, explore the winding streets of the ramparts to get a taste of life back then. As you pass through Bastion St-Rémy, make sure to enjoy the view of the old town.

Also, pay a visit to the Foundation Maeght and the graves of famous artists like Marc Chagall.

Cobblestone streets, ancient stone walls, and ivy-clad buildings create a timeless atmosphere, while art galleries, boutiques, and quaint cafes line the narrow alleys.

Gordes, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Best Time to Visit – Summer (June to August) and Fall (September to October)

Located in the Luberon, this medieval city is known as the Parthenon of Provence for its enchanting beauty and stony look.

Venture into the peaceful and quiet setting of Lady of Senanque Abbey, where monks reside and the air is filled with the scent of olive oil and honey.

Tuesdays are market days in Gordes. So make sure to buy local products from vendors and enjoy this delightful experience.

For a romantic and dreamy feeling, you can book a table to eat at La Bastide de Pierres, a chic Italian restaurant at the Place du Chateau. Make sure to pay a visit to Le Château de Gordes, one of the oldest medieval castles in France, and enjoy the Renaissance period artwork and architecture.

Èze, French Riviera

Best Time to Visit – Warm Summer Months (June to August)

This one is one of the best places to visit in the south of France with kids. The medieval and bijou village of Èze is sure to steal your heart just as it did ours with its charming allure and adorable cobbled streets. Good luck putting your camera away because this photogenic village has irresistible scenic value.

Feast on the natural beauty at Eze’s crown jewel, Le Jardin Exotique. Explore the vibrant flora of the region and its colorful history, paired with the unparalleled views offered by the French Riviera.

Don’t miss the Eze Church and take a peek inside at its beautifully painted ceilings and ornate pillars. And, make sure to visit the Exotic Garden of Eze to get a better view of Eze and the Cap.

Lastly, grab some cheese and baguette on your stroll and keep yourself cool with some Gelato on your way as you continue to discover Eze.

Carcassonne, Languedoc 

Best Time to Visit – April to October

Carcassonne at Languedoc is an unmissable journey through time with a touch of fairytale vibes. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of those gems that could be easily overlooked, so make the best of your time here.

Marvel at the fairytale-like turrets that dot the panoramic landscape seen from the Château Comtal atop the hill. Delve into the famous medieval citadel, La Cité de Carcassonne, and admire the historical richness of this place and the numerous watchtowers and double-walled fortifications.

4. Majestic Mountains and National Parks

Spread your wings and experience the natural allure of Southern France by hiking up enchanting trails and climbing majestic mountain peaks.

After all, it is high time to indulge your adventurous senses with exciting activities, all in the safety of protected national parks with magnificent biodiversity to explore.

Mercantour National Park, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence

Best Time to Visit – Spring (March to May) or Fall (September to November)

The south of France has something for everyone, and in this case, our fellow hiking and climbing travelers. Mercantour National Park boasts scenic biodiversity with its snow-capped Alps and vertiginous slopes grazed by horned chamois.

This underrated natural treasure trove of the Côte d’Azur teems with rare fauna and flora and is perfect for exploration. You can explore the mountain culture and vastly diverse landscapes of Alpine meadows with running crystal springs surrounded by glaciers and steep, jagged peaks.

Brave on with long-distance randonnées and explore different campsites each night for a truly immersive hiking experience along the scenic landscapes of this protected park.

Climb the Peak of Gelas and refuel at the family-owned Relais des Merveilles with refreshing mushroom-stuffed ravioli and nettle soups.

Vercors Regional Natural Park, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Best Time to Visit – Spring (March to May) or Fall (September to November)

Find your way around the biodiversity of the Vercors Regional Natural Park with its 4,000 kilometers of marked hiking trails, spectacular views, and charming villages.

With your own donkey companion, hike along the Vercors mountain range for an unforgettable experience.

Moving on, hike to the top of the Grand Vermont, and don’t miss the amazing wildlife of the Vercors Massif while you’re at it.

Ibex and vultures are sure to make an appearance at some point, so watch out for them.

To top it off, paraglide over the scene and discover beautiful, quaint villages to pay a visit to, like Méaudre and Lans-en-Vercors.

Écrins National Park, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Best Time to Visit – July to September

Situated between the northern and southern Alps, the Écrins National Park boasts a breathtaking mountain range known as the Écrins massif.

The Écrins massif within the national park contains over 150 peaks above 3,000 m. The total area of the park is 91,800 hectares.

Also, you can find La Barre des Écrins (4,102 m), the highest point, and admire the panoramic view of the other peaks from above.

The park focuses on hiking, mountaineering, and rock climbing in the summer months. Furthermore, skiers are welcome to explore the Girose Glacier with ski tours and fully experience the snow-capped scenic beauty of Écrins Park.

5. Unique Islands and Natural Reserves

Finally, surround yourself with the combined beauty of beaches and natural reserves as you explore the conserved ecosystem of these idyllic islands. 

Hike, dive, and tour around these terrains to make the most of your experience surrounded by diverse wildlife.

Porquerolles Island, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Best Time to Visit – May to June or September to October

Set sail on the azure blue waters to the vivid and colorful Porquerolles island of the Côte d’Azur. This enchanting island, listed among the Golden Islands, with its conserved biodiversity, is one of France’s most worthwhile places to visit.

As a traveler, you’re encouraged to explore the terrain of this island through intense bike rides, hikes through the forests, and guided boat tours. Hence, dive and snorkel your way through the pristine waters and surround yourself with the unique marine biodiversity of the Porquerolles beaches.

Finally, once you’re done exploring this Mediterranean oasis, replenish your energy at Le Pelagos and try their local fish and potatoes. Follow it up with some ice cream to cool off the steam.

Pro Tip:
You can use an electric bike for greater ease in uphill exploration!

Camargue Regional Natural Park, Rhône Delta

Best Time to Visit – Spring (March to May) or Fall (September to November)

Classified as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Camargue National Reserve is strictly protected with a mission to promote responsible tourism.

The ecosystem of the rich and biodiverse landscape of this reserve is one to marvel at, as you don’t just see it but can be a part of it. Hence, make sure to participate in equestrian activities and enjoy the free-roaming wildlife with bulls, flamingoes, egrets, herons, and innumerable animal species living in harmony.

With two-thirds of Europe’s bird species present here, this is an amazing spot for birdwatchers, amateurs, and experts alike.

Among the 14 discovery tours offered by the Park, some notable are:

• Marais du Vigueirat Nature Reserve
• Marais du Verdier
• Capelière Nature Reserve
• Mas du Pont de Rousty, Arles
• Pont de Gau ornithological park
• Aigues-Mortes, citadel placed in the middle of marshes and lagoons
• Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

Scandola Nature Reserve, Corsica

Best Time to Visit – April to June and September to October

Another UNESCO World Heritage site to be included on this list, the Scandola Nature Reserve ranks highly on the list of the best places to visit in southern France. Enjoy the most splendid coastline in all of Corsica by boat, surrounded by regional ospreys, cormorants, and giant gulls.

These boat trips also give you the best view of the coastline, which is adorned with mountain ranges. If you’re lucky, you may spot dolphins in the blue waters of the coast, so keep your eyes open.

Even if you don’t spot dolphins, the scenic rock formations of Calanches de Piana are highly worth seeing, as are the numerous seabird species.

Also, you can stop by the Gulf of Girolata to observe the numerous volcanic rock formations and underwater caves peppering these locations.

Finally, experience the ephemeral beauty of the sunset, catching on to the dramatic jagged red cliffs for an unforgettable and mesmerizing scenery.

How to Choose the Most Beautiful Place in the South of France?

We know beauty is subjective, and the same goes for places to visit in south France. However, we can always nudge you to make the right decision in your mind.

Keep the following in mind as you choose where to visit one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world.

• Coastline vs. Countryside: Decide if you prefer the glamorous beaches of the French Riviera or the serene landscapes of Provence’s countryside.
• Urban vs. Rural: Choose between bustling cities like Nice and Marseille or quaint villages such as Gordes and Eze.
• Activities: Consider what activities you enjoy—beach lounging, hiking, wine tasting, exploring historical sites, or art and culture.
• Transportation: Check the ease of reaching your chosen destination. Cities like Nice and Marseille have international airports, while smaller villages may require car rentals or local trains.
• Accommodation: Ensure a range of accommodation options that suit your budget and preferences, from luxury resorts to charming bed-and-breakfasts.
• Bucket List: Think about any specific sights or experiences you’ve always wanted to see or do in the South of France.
• Unique Features: Look for places that have unique historical significance or natural beauty. 

By considering these factors, you can narrow down your choices and select the most beautiful place in the South of France that aligns with your interests and preferences, ensuring a memorable and fulfilling travel experience.

Closing Speech

With all that being said, we hope this gives your wandering mind some ideas for visiting France and where to visit the south of France to start.

Thanks to the diverse landscapes and vibrant culture of different parts of South France, there is a bit of everything for everyone!

However, the experiences vary from person to person, and what makes it enchanting is how you experience it. Hence, we urge you to visit and create your own experiences.

Happy Traveling!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)