Introduction to the South of France
The South of France is one of the most magical parts of the world: sun-soaked coastlines, glamorous cities, fields of lavender, medieval villages, and some of the best food you will ever taste. Whether you're into beaches, history, or wine, there's just that little je ne sais quoi waiting for you.
Why the South of France is paradise on earth
Azure beaches, cobblestone streets, golden sunsets atop vineyards-think of those. It is one of those places that effortlessly mixes all three-luxury, culture, and nature-all together. And it is that which makes it so irresistible to travelers.
Best Time to Visit
Good weather from May to September.
June-July is for fields of lavender.
September: Less Crowds but Warm Days
Planning Your South of France Trip
How Many Days do You Need?
7 days ? Côte d’Azur + Provence
10 days ? Marseille & Cassis
14 days ? Roman cities & Medieval towns
Getting Around the Region
Car rental: best flexibility
Train: great between major cities
Buses - cheaper but slower
Budget Breakdown
Mid-range trip: €120–€180 per day
Luxury travel: €250+
Budget travel: €70–€100/day
Perfect 7-Day South of France Itinerary
Day 1 – Nice: seaside charm & old town
Starting off in Nice, which is known for its Mediterranean beauty combined with a relaxed energy, take an easy stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, explore Vieux Nice, and hike up Castle Hill for some lovely coastal views.
DAY 2 - MONACO & EZÈ: LUXURY MEETS MEDIEVAL BEAUTY
Monaco: Take the short, scenic ride and take a walk along the harbor, catching a glimpse of the royal palace, savoring its luxurious atmosphere. Explore Èze Village, high above the sea, with pathways everywhere made of stone and an exotic garden.
DAY 3 - CANNES & ANTIBES: GLAMOUR & GOLDEN BEACHES
Discover the famous Boulevard de la Croisette lined with fashion shops and beaches filled with sand in Cannes. See old-town markets, crystal-clear waters, and make a stop at the Picasso Museum in Antibes.
Day 4 – Saint-Tropez: Beach Clubs & Scenic Vibes
Saint-Tropez epitomizes glamour, from its turquoise beaches and cafés to its high-end yachts. One day by the Pampelonne beach or roaming the charming old port sounds about right.
Day 5 – Marseille: culture, history & Vieux-Port
A blend of ancient charm and cool modern feel. Do not miss:
Vieux-Port
Notre-Dame de la Garde
Old Quarter Le Panier
Day 6 – Cassis: Calanques National Park
Take a boat tour or hike the famous Calanques, where steep limestone cliffs plunge into bright turquoise water, one of the great natural treasures of the South of France.
Day 7 – Aix-en-Provence: Markets & Lavender Fields
Browse Provençal markets; visit Cézanne's Studio; and walk the streets lined with fountains. During June and July, an excursion awaits to the Valensole Lavender Plateau.
Expanded 10–14 Day South of France Itinerary
If you have more time, add these gems:
Montpellier & Nîmes: Roman Heritage
See Roman arenas, ancient temples, and dynamic modern plazas.
Avignon (Papal Palace)
Medieval city with UNESCO sites, having awesome architecture.
Toulouse (The Pink City)
It is famous for buildings painted in rose color and aerospace museums.
Carcassonne: Medieval Fortress Town
The walled city scented with the pages of a fairytale romance.
Top Things to Do & See
Lavender fields in Provence
Best mid-June to late July.
Wine Tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Home to the bold reds and world-renowned vineyards.
Boat Tour to the Calanques
A bucket-list event for nature lovers.
Côte d’Azur Beach-Hopping
Nice ? Villefranche ? Cannes ? Saint-Tropez.
Food & Wine Guide
Must-try local dishes.
Ratatouille
Socca
Bouillabaisse
Niçoise salad
Best local wines
Provence Rosé
Bandol Red
Cassis White
Tips - Budget vs Luxury Dining
Eat out at local bistros, which are cheaper.
From Michelin-star restaurants for ultimate luxury experiences to:
First Time Traveller Tips
What to Bring
light clothes Comfortable shoes Swimwear Sunscreen
Safety Tips
It is a very secure region, and there is little one should worry about except for the pickpocketing in touristy areas.
Money-Saving Hacks
Visit during shoulder seasons Take regional trains Try prix-fixe menus
Conclusion
The South
of France is a heady mix of luxury, tradition, nature, and culture. From
lavender-scented morning fun to golden sunset nights by the sea, one can be
assured of lifelong memories, whether one is on this 7-day whirlwind tour or
stretching it to two weeks.
