Provence is a perfect mix of fine weather, sparkling Mediterranean horizons, modern cities and charming countryside. Here are some of the most enchanting towns I visited during my week-long road trip along the French Riviera.
Tips before you book:
Plan ahead! During the summer months, accommodation gets booked up fast, and flights can get pricey if you leave it to the last minute.
Rent a car. Travelling between and within the cities is relatively easy, but it can get tricky if you want to detour away. We found an app called Drivy, which lets you hire a car from locals, even just for a day. It’s cheap and relatively straightforward.
Brush up on your French. Many people speak English, but if you’re renting a car from a local or asking for directions in some of the smaller villages, it will be helpful to know some basics.
Antibes
A beautiful town made up of narrow cobblestone streets, long stretches of golden sand, and that infamous French Riviera vibe.
Èze
A picture-perfect medieval hilltop village between Monaco and Nice, 420m above sea level. You’ll find yourself gawping at the mesmerising views of the coast the higher you climb. Make sure you visit Château de La Chèvre d’Or, an enchanting hotel that sits right at the top of Èze Village in a 400-year-old medieval castle. You don’t have to be staying at the hotel to visit the terrace bar which has the most breathtaking views.
St Paul de Vence
As one of the oldest medieval towns in Provence, it’s the perfect place to spend a few peaceful hours walking, eating ice cream, exploring antique shops and taking in the beautiful scenery.
Tourrettes-Sur-Loup
A beautiful medieval village backed by a range of rocky hills and stunning landscapes.
