Nestled in the southeast of France, the administrative region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur is a treasure trove to explore for travellers in search of beauty, culture and the good life. This sun-drenched region epitomises Mediterranean charm With breathtaking landscapes, rich historical heritage, and culinary delights.
Capital: Marseille
Main cities: Nice, Toulon, Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, Cannes, Fréjus
Places of Interest: Luberon, Alpilles, Verdon Canyon, French Riviera, Camargue, Ecrins Massif, Calanques of Marseille, Nice Hinterland, Dentelles de Montmirail
🎦 Watch our short video on Luberon, one of the most beautiful spots in Provence known for its perched villages ⤵
Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur abounds in varied and spectacular landscapes that will appeal to nature lovers. Provence's emblematic lavender fields colour the hills purple as far as the eye can see, creating an intoxicating and soothing visual spectacle.
The Parc National des Calanques offers a unique combination of craggy limestone mountains and turquoise coves, ideal for hikers and sea lovers alike.
And, of course, the majestic Southern Alps offer breathtaking panoramas and many outdoor activities all year round.
The Pays de Sault, Provence © French Moments
The famous Popes' Palace in Avignon © French Moments
Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur is brimming with cultural treasures that witness its rich history and heritage. Historic towns such as Avignon, Arles and Aix-en-Provence are packed with UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the majestic Palais des Papes and the Roman amphitheatre in Arles.
The picturesque narrow streets, shady squares and lively markets invite visitors to stroll around and soak up the authentic Provencal atmosphere.
The Côte d'Azur is the undisputed jewel of the region, attracting travellers worldwide for decades. Internationally renowned destinations such as Nice, Cannes, Saint-Tropez and Monaco offer a unique blend of glamour, sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife.
The pleasures of the Mediterranean are best enjoyed on the Côte d'Azur, whether lounging on sunny beaches, sampling delicious Mediterranean cuisine or strolling along the Promenade des Anglais in Nice.
The resort of Menton on the French Riviera. Photo: twenty20photos
Melons and carrots at the market of Bédoin, Provence © French Moments
The cuisine of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur is a veritable invitation to gustatory delights. From Provençal flavours to Mediterranean influences, local dishes burst with sunny aromas and fresh produce. Don't miss the famous bouillabaisse, a delicious fish soup, or ratatouille with sun-dried vegetables. And, of course, accompany your meal with a glass of delicious local wine, as the region is also renowned for its quality vineyards.
Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur is a must-see destination for travellers looking for adventure, cultural discoveries and moments of relaxation in idyllic surroundings. So let yourself be captivated by the charm of the Mediterranean, and set off to discover this enchanting region that will seduce you at every turn.
Below is a list of all our articles referenced in the "Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur" category. You can also use the search button to browse the content of the website:
In this article, I have chosen to tell you about the village of Bédoin, where we stayed for a fortnight in Spring. Situated at the foot of Mont Ventoux, the village benefits from many tourist assets. Here is a small summary of our stay in this little corner of paradise. Between vineyards, cherry orchards, lavender Read more…
![Nice Port © Rosanna Delpiano - licence [CC BY-SA 4.0] from Wikimedia Commons](https://frenchmoments.eu/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Nice-Port-©-Rosanna-Delpiano-licence-CC-BY-SA-4.0-from-Wikimedia-Commons.jpg)
You should start (or finish) a cruise in Nice for many good reasons. The vibrant French town is ideally situated on the Mediterranean seafront, with the Maritime Alps towering above its hinterland. This is a little guide to what to see in Nice when cruising the French Riviera! Watch our short video on the Read more…
During our 40-day stay in the Luberon, I took dozens of short films of our excursions. Back home in England, I selected a few of my best shots to compose a short tribute video to the Luberon. This is an invitation to escape in Provence for a few minutes!A 5-minute Escape in ProvenceThis short video Read more…
Provence is a region in southeastern France that has long been a favourite destination for travellers worldwide. With its stunning natural landscapes, picturesque villages, and rich cultural heritage, Provence offers a unique blend of history, art, and nature that appeals to all kinds of visitors. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient Roman ruins, tasting local Read more…
Standing on a rocky promontory (Le Rocher), the Prince’s Palace of Monaco is the official residence of the ruling Prince of Monaco. The castle has been the home of the Grimaldi dynasty since the end of the 13th century. The Palais de Monaco occupies a unique and spectacular geological site, facing the Mediterranean Sea at Read more…
The Luberon is a protected mountainous region in the département of Vaucluse, in the southeast of France, which shelters a huddle of charming villages. Let’s discover some of its most beautiful sites. About the Luberon region in Provence The Luberon, adored by French author Marcel Pagnol, was Samuel Beckett’s refuge during the Second Read more…
![French Riviera - Côte d'Azur © Frédéric Ducarme - licence [CC BY-SA 3.0] from Wikimedia Commons](https://frenchmoments.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Agay-from-Dramont-©-Frédéric-Ducarme-licence-CC-BY-SA-3.0-from-Wikimedia-Commons.jpg)
For many French people, the French Riviera (or Côte d’Azur) is synonymous with summer holidays. Between mountains and the sea, the French Riviera offers a stunning variety of landscapes and colours, from beaches and seclusive bays to promontories. The seashore is lined with cluster pines, palm trees and the Mediterranean maquis. Let’s have a closer Read more…
Walking underneath dramatic glaciers and snow-capped peaks, strolling in the picture perfect old towns and villages, tasting the delicious mountain cheese while relaxing on the shores of alpine lakes, the French Alps have much to offer to its visitors. Although crowded in winter, this part of France is often bypassed by English-speaking tourists in summer Read more…
Between Saint-Raphaël and La Napoule, the Esterel massif offers natural scenery which inspires wonder. It is one of the most beautiful regions of Provence, opened to mass tourism since the creation by the Touring Club of the Esterel corniche road or Corniche d’Or (1903). The contrast between the coast’s bustling life and the hinterland’s deserted Read more…
The Provence, part of the PACA region, one of the richest in France, is the most visited area in France after Paris city. Located in the South-East, this picturesque area is famous for its mild weather, snow-clad mountains, fields of lavender, olive trees and vineyards. But the noticeable mediaeval architecture in the main cities, fortified Read more…
Our accommodation is in a Provençal farmhouse in the middle of the Luberon countryside. This location is ideal for exploring the surrounding area without taking the car. For us, the countryside of Bonnieux is a complete change of scenery.Bonnieux early morningSince arriving in Provence, we’ve been walking around our accommodation, especially in the mornings when Read more…
The city of Aix-en-Provence and the delicious calissons have had a common destiny for several centuries. It is one of the emblematic delicacies of Provence and is one of the famous thirteen Christmas desserts. Let’s lift the curtain on this subtle mixture of almonds and candied melons. What are calissons from Aix? Calissons Read more…
Last August, we were in Provence, in the area around Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, for a couple of days. The south of France is always a popular destination with a guaranteed warm summer. It was definitely sizzling when we were there, and afternoon naps were a must! Here are some of our favourite places around Saint-Rémy-de-Provence that we Read more…
If you are looking for a postcard image of Provence, that of authentic Provençal atmosphere, then look no further than the Alpilles mountain range! The region boasts some of Provence’s most famous tourist sites, such as the fantastic Roman ruins of Glanum, the medieval village of Les Baux-de-Provence, the stylish and refined little town of Read more…
Find out more about the French Riviera on the blog… Who knows: you might get some answers for the quiz!
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Sur le pont d’Avignon is a traditional French song dating to the 15th century. The mimed ronde involves all sorts of characters dancing around or on the famous bridge Pont Saint-Bénézet in Avignon.The story of the songSome scholars date the song back to at least the 15th century. However, neither the author nor the origin of the Read more…
The villages of the Luberon are exceptional in many ways. Most are perched like a stone watchtower over the valley or plain. Some have been awarded the prestigious label of “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” (The Most Beautiful Villages in France), which enables them to welcome a host of tourists in the summer. But what Read more…
![General view of Sainte-Agnès © Patrick Rouzet - licence [CC BY-SA 3.0] from Wikimedia Commons](https://frenchmoments.eu/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Sainte-Agnes-©-Patrick-Rouzet-licence-CC-BY-SA-3.0-from-Wikimedia-Commons-1.jpg)
When driving on the mountain road D22, the hilltop village of Sainte-Agnès makes a great impression. It is perched on the flank of a mountain high above the town of Menton and the Mediterranean sea. Locals claim the village is the highest coastal village in Europe. Whether this is true or not, from there, the Read more…
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence lies in the beautiful countryside against the backdrop of the Alpilles range. Lush green fields with sturdy cypresses and poplars surround the delightful country town. In this article, I have included a 1 km self-guided walk across the streets of the old town to help you discover all the exciting places. Watch our short Read more…
The seaside resort of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat lies on a beautiful peninsula on the French Riviera between Nice and Monaco. Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is primarily a fashionable destination amongst celebrities and millionaires, with many opulent villas built on a great site. Plan your trip to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat! 🏨 Find the best accommodations in Villefranche-sur-Mer and the region on Booking.com Read more…
Roussillon lies in the northern part of the Luberon, between the Luberon mountain and the Vaucluse Plateau. The village is famous for its ochre quarries that were exploited from the end of the 18th century until the 1930s. CONTENTS Watch this short video on the Luberon!1Plan your trip to Roussillon2Why you should visit RoussillonPlace du Read more…
As the Corniche roads from Nice descend towards Menton, it approaches the Mediterranean resort of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. The perched village of Roquebrune overlooks the luxuriant vegetation of the Cap Martin peninsula. From the medieval castle, breathtaking views command the coastline of the French Riviera, from the mountains above Menton and Italy to the dazzling Principality of Read more…
The oldest part of the Principality of Monaco is Le Rocher de Monaco (aka the Rock of Monaco), a rocky promontory between Port Hercule and the Fontvieille district. This is the oldest part of the micro-state and the only district spared by developers. The old town of Monaco-Ville is home to political, judicial and religious Read more…
As we eagerly anticipated our 40-day recess in the picturesque village of Bonnieux, nestled in the heart of the Luberon, we were armed with not just luggage but a promise of seamless travel. The travel companions in question? The Level8 Textured Luggage Set was our trusty entourage for the awaited adventure. Follow us for a Read more…
For the past three weeks, we’ve been blessed with radiant skies and the sun’s golden rays. However, in true Provencal fashion, the weather took a turn, and the clouds and rain appeared. But I wasn’t dismayed; Provence is no stranger to these brief interludes of rain, unlike some places where gloom can stretch on for Read more…
Provençal Tomaotes and Aubergines are a delicious vegetarian dish which is often cooked in Provence where aubergines (eggplant) and tomatoes are full of flavour. This recipe is often made with mince (pork/chicken etc.) but this recipe is fully vegetarian and is very easy to cook … Ingredients Serves 4 1 red onion finely diced 3 garlic Read more…
Enjoying over 300 days of sunshine a year, the most glamorous destination on the Mediterranean looks like nowhere else on the French Riviera. The Principality of Monaco is a tiny state no larger than New York’s Central Park. It comprises a cluster of high-rise towers built on the side of the Maritime Alps. The celebrated Read more…
The din of cicadas, the southern French accent, a glass of Pastis at a table outside a café: this is Aix-en-Provence, one of France’s most delightful towns. Aix has long been the capital of Provence. This can be seen in its architecture, the wealth of its private mansions, and the ever-present traces of its flourishing Read more…
Place de l’Hôtel de Ville of Aix is arguably one of Provence’s most famous squares. It shows a great array of architectural styles, from the most simple to elaborate Baroque styles. Some interesting monuments border the square: the Town Hall, the Corn Exchange Hall and the Clock Tower. Follow the guide! Place de Read more…
Not far from the Natural History Museum of Aix-en-Provence lies the elegant Place d’Albertas. The small square is arguably one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Provence. Place d’Albertas: A Bit of History The Albertas were a parliamentarian family originating from the Italian city of Alba. They came to Aix in Read more…
Pistou (Provençal pesto) is typically Provençal and is a sauce made with basil, garlic, olive oil and salt. Unlike Italian pesto, the one from Provence does not necessarily use pine nuts or cheese. Ingredients 150g Basil 150g Pine nuts 5 cloves of Garlic 1 tea spoon of Salt 1 tea spoon Pepper 25cl of Olive Read more…
Pissaladière is a sort of like a cheese-less pizza .. this is a typical lunchtime snack easily found in boulangeries in Provence. A pizza base is topped with soft caramely tasting onions, anchovies and black olives. Served traditionally with chilled rose this makes a refreshing change from cheese laden pizza! Ingredients Makes 6-8 slices For Read more…
![Peillon - licence [CC BY-SA 3.0] from Wikimedia Commons](https://frenchmoments.eu/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Peillon-licence-CC-BY-SA-3.0-from-Wikimedia-Commons1.jpg)
Situated in the hinterland of Nice, picturesque Peillon is one of the most beautiful villages of the French Riviera. You’ll discover this beautiful village on an eagle’s nest on a sheer cliff. A visit to the old village offers an unforgettable journey through history. The old town invites you to stroll through its winding streets Read more…
Peille is a perched village set atop a narrow rocky spur overlooking the Peillon Valley in the Prealps of Nice. Plan your trip to Peille and the region of Nice! 🏨 Find the best accommodations in Nice and the region on Booking.com 🙋♀️ Get the PASS CÔTE D’AZUR and take your pick from more Read more…
Pastis is almost like a religion in Provence where the best pastis is found. Pastis from Provence: the unmissable beverage! “Il faut vous enivrer sans trêve. / Mais de quoi? / De vin, de poésie, ou de vertu, à votre guise. / Mais enivrez-vous.” “Get drunk and stay that way. / On what? / On Read more…
If there is a festival worth mentioning in the South of France, I couldn’t miss the Nice Carnival. It is the largest event organised on the French Riviera. But most of all, it is one of the three most famous carnivals in the world alongside Rio de Janeiro and Venice. The colourful event takes place Read more…
As our time in Provence comes to an end after a delightful stay spanning over five weeks, anchored in the picturesque hilltop village of Bonnieux in the heart of the Luberon, we would like to pay tribute to this magnificent region. In commemoration of this charming corner of the world, we’ve curated a compilation of Read more…
Since we arrived in Provence, we’ve climbed up to the hilltop village of Bonnieux several times. We prefer to do our walks in Bonnieux in the morning, when the temperatures are still fairly cool, as climbing up to the upper church (église haute) requires a certain amount of physical effort! Here are a few photos taken Read more…
Two names stand out in the glamorous and exclusive world of the French Riviera: Monaco and Monte Carlo. These two destinations are often used interchangeably, but are they the same? Of all the districts in the Principality of Monaco, Monte-Carlo is undoubtedly the most prestigious and chic, lively and residential. This is mainly due to Read more…
Montagne Sainte-Victoire is an iconic natural landmark in Provence, along with other famous peaks such as Mont Ventoux and Sainte-Baume. The “mountain of Aix” extends over 18 kilometres east of Aix-en-Provence. Reaching 1,011 metres / 3,317 ft at Pic des Mouches, the celebrated mountain owes its fame to painter Paul Cézanne, who could see it Read more…
Picture this… The sun finally sets over the Principality of Monaco. The lighthouses in the port light up as the boats return from their cruises on the Mediterranean. Gradually, the city’s lights lit up, from the Prince’s Palace perched on Le Rocher to the famous Casino of Monte-Carlo. The restaurants and their terraces are starting Read more…
The resort town of Menton on the Mediterranean Sea boasts the most interesting parks and gardens that are an invitation to the exotic. You’ll find intimate parks and exuberant or botanical gardens. This article gives you a shortlist of Menton’s parks and gardens to discover on your next visit to the “Pearl of France”. About Read more…
![Menton, French Riviera © Vinbaron - licence [CC BY-SA 3.0] from Wikimedia Commons](https://frenchmoments.eu/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Menton-©-Vinbaron-licence-CC-BY-SA-3.0-from-Wikimedia-Commons1.jpg)
The beauties of nature, the magnificence of the sun, the intoxication of the ever-changing sea… this was how Menton was described by English doctor James Henry Bennett, considered by the locals as the creator of the seaside resort. One of the prettiest towns on the French Mediterranean shores, sunny Menton is rightly nicknamed the “Pearl Read more…
The most Italianate and warmest town on the French Riviera has become famous for the colourful Menton Lemon Festival. This carnival, like no other, is a significant event on the French Riviera. In fact, each Winter attracts no less than 240,000 spectators in Menton, France. Visitors come from far away to marvel at the impressive Read more…
The old village of Ménerbes is situated on a rocky outcrop 230 metres above sea level. The territory of the commune reaches the top of Petit Luberon in the south and spreads downwards to the Calavon River in the north. Home to 1,000 inhabitants, Ménerbes is one of France’s most beautiful villages. CONTENTS Watch this Read more…
Lourmarin is one of France’s most beautiful villages and is located in Provence. With its picturesque scenery, historical attractions and delicious local cuisine, there is plenty to see and do in this charming village. Here is a guide to help you discover all there is to see and do in the village.Watch this short video Read more…
On this Sunday, at the end of September, we left the south of England to spend just over five weeks in Provence. The flight from London to Marseille gave us breathtaking views of eastern France. Here’s a photo report. I took the photos on board the plane with my iPhone – my camera was safe in Read more…
The site of Les Baux-de-Provence lies 15 km from Arles and 25 km from Avignon. The small village and its ruined medieval castle are the stars of the Alpilles. Set atop a rocky spur, it displays panoramic views over the Crau plain, the Camargue and the city of Arles. Watch our short video presentation of Read more…
A classic lemon tart has a wonderful balance of lemons and a crispy sweet base. Tart enough to tingle on the tongue and delight your senses! About Menton and its lemon tradition The city of Menton is located between the foot hills of the Maritime Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, 30 km away from Nice. Read more…
Opposite the village of Bonnieux, Lacoste is set on one of the Luberon’s most impressive sites. Perched on the northern slopes of the Petit Luberon Mountain, this charming village of 420 residents offers spectacular views over the Calavon Valley and the Mountains of Vaucluse. The walls of the towering ruined castle standing above Lacoste appear Read more…
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