South of France – Jewel of the Mediterranean

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South of France – Jewel of the Mediterranean

Freshly caught seafood, sparkling turquoise waters and a sun-kissed pebbly coastline make the South of France an irresistible Mediterranean destination. From lost-in-time medieval villages to Nice's pretty, pastel shopfronts and Marseille's big-city nightlife, there's plenty to explore. There's a diverse selection of art and architecture, from Roman ruins to Baroque churches. Picasso, Cezanne and van Gogh all lived and worked here. Visit the Musée Matisse and Musée Marc Chagall to see the immaculately curated collections, or step outside to admire art deco hotels with their ornately sculpted balconies. Soak in the classic glamour of Cannes, famed for its international film festival and designer boutiques. Ferries run regularly to the lush Lérins Islands, giving unforgettable Riviera vistas from the sea. Cruise the region's craggy clifftop roads or venture inland to enjoy the lavender scents and endless blue skies of Provence.

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Top Attractions in South of France

Old Town Nice – A slower pace of life

Art galleries, spice shops and perfumeries nestle within the narrow-cobbled streets of Nice's Old Town. There have been few changes since the 1700s, with gems like the marble-lined False Gate as enchanting now as they were hundreds of years ago. Old Nice sits just below Castle Hill, framed by the seaside Promenade des Anglais and riverfront Promenade of Paillon. By day, the central Cours Saleya marketplace bustles with flower and produce stalls. By night, it transforms into an open-air restaurant where locals gather to see and be seen under the stars.
Promenade des Anglais – People watching at its best

Imagine Nice and you'll probably conjure its famous seaside promenade to mind. Named for English patrons who paid for its construction in 1822, the Promenade des Anglais meanders along 4km of golden sandy beaches and shimmering seafront. Have a gentle wander to soak in the sights, or zip along the dedicated fast lane for skaters and cyclists. You'll spot landmarks along the way, like the art deco Palais de la Méditerranée and Hôtel Negresco. Wrought-iron sculptures, souvenir stalls and cafés also enliven a promenade stroll.
Massif de l'Esterel – Rugged peaks and hidden coves

Flanked by the Mediterranean, the Massif de l'Esterel is a coastal mountain range formed by craggy volcanic rocks that give it its signature red tint. These gorge-studded peaks were once connected to Corsica, which you see looming in the distance on a clear day. Enjoy panoramic seaside sights from the dizzying heights of the Cap du Dramont and Mont Vinaigre, or venture into the Esterel's interior to find bubbling springs coursing through rugged ravines. Meandering hiking and cycling trails crisscross its 32,000 hectares, with designated circuits for horseback riding and mountain biking.
Route des Crêtes – Road trip with a view

The Route des Crêtes is a thrilling drive along the cliffs of Cap Canaille, connecting the Gulf of Cassis to the Gulf of La Ciotat. As Europe's highest sea cliff, Cap Canaille affords a bird's-eye vantagepoint – and you may just spot a vulture or two. Take your time to enjoy the magnificent sweeping clifftop views over the Mediterranean, tumbling to the secluded bays below. The road stretches for 30km and is dotted with places to park. These stopping points give the chance to explore on foot to enjoy the picture-perfect scenery.

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