Curator’s statement
After booking over 10 trips to the South of France, I wanted to share my best recs with you all! Explore the medieval charm of Provence. Hilltop villages like Gordes and Les Baux-de-Provence transport you back in time, and lavender fields in Valensole paint the landscape in shades of purple. Follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh and Cézanne, from the art-filled streets of Saint-Paul-de-Vence to the immersive Carrières de Lumières. Then, soak up the glamor of the French Riviera, where Saint-Tropez’s beach clubs and Antibes’ historic ramparts offer the perfect mix of luxury and coastal beauty. Whether wandering cobbled streets, savoring Provençal wines or admiring the Mediterranean from a seaside café, this journey blends history, art and effortless elegance.
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Things to do in the South of France
In Provence
Carrières de Lumières (Les Baux-de-Provence): A unique and immersive digital art show projected onto limestone walls.
Villa La Coste: Participate in an art walk to admire the incredible sculptures on property. Follow with lunch or dinner at one of their incredible onsite restaurants.
Van Gogh Trail (Arles & Saint-Rémy-de-Provence): Walk in Van Gogh’s footsteps and see locations that inspired his paintings.
Visit the local markets: These exist in all the Provencal towns, but I prefer the one in Gordes, which happens each Tuesday. Make sure to check which days the markets are open in advance, as it varies by town!
Lavender Fields of Valensole: Walk through endless purple fields at their peak bloom (June–July only!)
Mont Ventoux: Cycle or drive up this legendary Tour de France Mountain.
In Antibes
Musée Picasso: Located in a historic château where Picasso once lived and worked.
Senier du Littoral at Cap d’Antibes: A scenic coastal walk along rocky cliffs and turquoise waters.
Dinner and drinks at Hotel du Cap Eden Roc: Even if you aren't staying at the hotel, you can still partake in the magic. Go for an early dinner so you can watch the sunset!
Day trip to Cannes: Walk around and make sure to have lunch at Restaurant La Guérite, only reachable by ferry. The later seating has a party vibe!
In St. Tropez
Boat tour to Pampelonne Beach: Rent a yacht or take a private boat to explore the coastline.
Visit a beach club: Spend a day at the beach enjoying high-energy vibes, music and cocktails. Le Club 55, Loulou, Gigi and La Reserve are the top spots!
Dine at La Vague d’Or (3 Michelin stars): Chef Arnaud Donckele’s legendary restaurant at Cheval Blanc St-Tropez. It offers an unforgettable culinary experience.
Luxury Shopping on Place des Lices: High-end boutiques like Dior, Chanel and Louis Vuitton are perfect for indulging in designer fashion.
Places to eat & drink in the South of France
Provence
L'Auberge de Saint-Rémy: Michelin-starred restaurant offering contemporary Provençal cuisine in a charming setting, best for dinner.
Restaurant de Tourrel: Dinner Elegant dining with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients, awarded one Michelin star.
Café de la Place: A local favorite for morning coffee and pastries or evening aperitifs.
Francis Mallmann at Villa La Coste blends his signature open-fire Patagonian cooking with Provençal flavors. The menu offers a refined yet rustic dining experience amidst the vineyards and contemporary art of this exclusive estate.
Antibes
Chez Lulu: Casual eatery serving Provençal dishes with a cozy, homestyle ambiance.
Louroc, the Michelin-starred restaurant at Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc, offers an exquisite fine dining experience with Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, breathtaking sea views and an ambiance of timeless Riviera elegance.
La Guérite (Île Sainte-Marguerite): A chic, seaside hotspot near Cannes. La Guérite serves fresh Mediterranean cuisine and seafood in a lively, sun-drenched atmosphere frequented by jetsetters and celebrities. Perfect for a day trip!
St Tropez
Dior Des Lices: Elegant café located in the Dior boutique's garden, perfect for a luxurious breakfast or afternoon tea.
Cucina Byblos: Casual Italian dining within the Hotel Byblos, known for its authentic flavors and vibrant ambiance. A great spot for a casual lunch or dinner!
La Petite Plage: Chic waterfront restaurant offering Mediterranean cuisine and creative cocktails in a stylish atmosphere — go for a drink.
La Vague d'Or: Three-Michelin-starred restaurant offering an exceptional dinnertime culinary journey under Chef Arnaud Donckele.
Travel Advisor
Allie Bendit
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our South of France page.