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:
Imagine setting sail along the azure waters of France’s Mediterranean coast, a world where the cerulean sea meets the sky at a distant, serene horizon. From quaint coastal villages to majestic, secluded coves, the French Mediterranean offers an array of unique destinations waiting to be discovered by those willing to veer off the beaten track. Read more…
In the Luberon’s picturesque towns and villages, I’ve been captivated by the towering structures that grace the skyline – the campaniles and clock towers and campaniles of Provence. These architectural marvels symbolise the heart of each community and serve as guardians of time and tradition. Join me as we delve into the world of Provence’s beloved Read more…
![Villefranche-sur-Mer - licence [CC BY-SA 2.0-uk] from Wikimedia Commons](https://frenchmoments.eu/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Villefranche-sur-Mer-licence-CC-BY-SA-2.0-uk-from-Wikimedia-Commons1.jpg)
Now included in the Greater Nice, the dazzling little town of Villefranche-sur-Mer on the French Riviera is a pleasant sea resort with its old town made up of colourful façades and red tile roofs, beaches and busy seafront where the terraces of cafés and restaurants overlook the authentic fishing port and one of France’s largest Read more…
![The fortified town of Briançon © Shesmax - licence [CC BY-SA 4.0] from Wikimedia Commons](https://frenchmoments.eu/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Briançon-©-Shesmax-licence-CC-BY-SA-4.0-from-Wikimedia-Commons.jpg)
An imposing citadel on a rocky outcrop in a spectacular setting of high mountain peaks… this is the fortified town of Briançon. And it hardly leaves anyone indifferent! Here we are in the Hautes-Alpes département, in the northern edge of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region. ‘Hautes-Alpes’ literally means ‘Upper Alps’. Indeed, Briançon is bordered to the Read more…
We had never visited the old village of Robion until the autumn of 2023. Like many visitors, tourists, and even locals, we had often driven through Robion for years, unaware of the charming little village tucked away from the main road between Cavaillon and Apt. It was only when I saw a large poster in a supermarket Read more…
Beaulieu-sur-Mer is a Mediterranean resort between Nice and Monaco, overlooking the beautiful Baie des Fourmis. With its shady palm tree-lined roads, lush Mediterranean vegetation, crescent-shaped beaches, marina and luxurious villas, Beaulieu is truly a charming destination. Watch our short video on the French Riviera, an aerial journey from Toulon to Menton via Saint-Tropez, Cannes, Nice Read more…
Many Luberon sites will capture your heart as you explore the enchanting region of Provence, France. Known for its stunning landscapes, quaint villages, and rich cultural history, the Luberon is a true gem in the heart of Provence. In this article, we’ll introduce you to 10 of the most beautiful Luberon sites you won’t want Read more…
Nestled in the heart of Provence, the charming village of Cucuron offers a picturesque escape into historical elegance and natural beauty. The village streets, a labyrinthine maze flanked by buildings steeped in history, lead to the iconic Bassin de l’Étang, a reservoir surrounded by ancient plane trees, doubling as a serene spot of leisure and a Read more…
Welcome to the ‘Cucuron Guided Walk’, an enchanting chapter from our last journey through Provence! During a memorable 40-day stay in Bonnieux, our lovely home base, I explored this other picturesque village under the warm, gentle embrace of the early autumn sun. As the Provençal landscape basked in a serene, sunny glow, I meandered through the Read more…
Paris has its Champs-Élysées, Nice its Promenade des Anglais, Marseille its Canebière and Aix its Cours Mirabeau. This wide street is one of the busiest and most frequented in Aix-en-Provence. The avenue connects Place de la Rotonde to the west and Place Forbin to the east. It was and remains the best part of town Read more…
The Corniche Roads of the French Riviera consist of three routes following the mountainous stretch from Nice to Menton. The Corniche offers dramatic coastal views, which you can discover by car through three scenic routes: the Grande Corniche, the Moyenne Corniche and the Corniche Inférieure. Watch our short video on the French Riviera, an aerial Read more…
According to tradition, the Christmas celebrations in Provence begin on the 4th of December on Saint Barbara’s Day and end on the 2nd of February at Candlemas. The four weeks of Advent is the perfect time to visit the town and villages adorned with festive lights, Christmas markets and Santon fairs. However, Christmas in Provence culminates Read more…
As little Christmas delicacies, chocolate mendiants are part of the Provençal tradition and the thirteen desserts. The Provençal tradition of the mendicant order The colours of their ingredients are reminiscent of the original robes of the mendicant order of friars in the Church during the Middle-Ages: the Franciscans (the Grey Friars) founded 1209 = grey (sultanas) Read more…
“Today I’m going to Provence!” I sent this message to my subscribers on the 14th of September 2023. On that day, Rachel, Aimée and I left the south coast of England to experience Autumn in Provence, from our base in the Luberon!🎦 Watch our short video on the Luberon, which will inspire you to explore this Read more…
On the road down from Auribeau to the Calavon Valley, my daughter Aimée and I stopped at Castellet-en-Luberon, a picturesque Provençal village perched amidst the lush landscape of the Grand Luberon. A quintessential village that seemed authentic enough to be worth the diversions. And we weren’t wrong. This is a short account of our visit.Watch Read more…
Welcome to the ‘Castellet Guided Walk’, an enchanting chapter from our last journey through Provence! During a memorable 40-day stay in Bonnieux, our lovely home base, I explored this other picturesque village under the warm, gentle embrace of the early autumn sun. As the Provençal landscape basked in a serene, sunny glow, I meandered through the Read more…
The Calanques of Cassis are a unique geological formation in Provence, usually comprised of limestone or granite; they are made up of deep, narrow valleys with sharp edges, partly submerged by the sea. Their shapes are very similar to those of the Norwegian fjords. These formations are often found in coastal Mediterranean areas, particularly south-eastern Read more…
As I stepped into the heart of Provence on a sun-drenched October day, the quaint village of Cabrières-d’Avignon unveiled itself as nothing short of a revelation. There was something about the warmth of the sun, the serene atmosphere, and the timeless beauty of the village that immediately captivated me. My first visit to this enchanting place, far Read more…
Welcome to the ‘Cabrières Guided Walk’, an enchanting chapter from our last journey through Provence! During a memorable 40-day stay in Bonnieux, our lovely home base, I explored this other picturesque village under the warm, gentle embrace of the early autumn sun. As the Provençal landscape basked in a serene, sunny glow, I meandered through the Read more…
Before our last stay in Provence, I had never heard of Buoux. This small village, perched at 470 meters above sea level amidst the stunning cliffs of the Grand Luberon, turned out to be one of the most surprising and incredible discoveries of our trip. Despite its modest size, Buoux captivated me with its rich history and Read more…
Bonnieux is one of the most beautiful perched villages on the northern slopes of the Luberon. Some people call it the “Mont Saint-Michel of Provence”. It is part of the golden triangle Gordes – Roussillon – Bonnieux, but, unlike its two neighbours, the latter is less busy, which makes it more authentic. The village comprises two churches, Read more…
Welcome to the ‘Bonnieux Guided Walk’, an enchanting chapter from our last journey through Provence! During a memorable 40-day stay in Bonnieux, our lovely home base, I explored this picturesque village under the warm, gentle embrace of the early autumn sun. As the Provençal landscape basked in a serene, sunny glow, I meandered through the charming Read more…
It was a sunny and sweltering day in October when I first set foot in Beaumettes, a hidden gem on the busy road from Cavaillon to Apt. It wasn’t just a mere detour; it became a revelation, an intimate encounter with a village that whispered stories of the past amidst the gentle rustle of its leafy Read more…
Welcome to the ‘Beaumettes Guided Walk’, an enchanting chapter from our last journey through Provence! During a memorable 40-day stay in Bonnieux, our lovely home base, I explored this other picturesque village under the warm, gentle embrace of the early autumn sun. As the Provençal landscape basked in a serene, sunny glow, I meandered through the Read more…
During our last stay in Provence, my daughter Aimée and I stumbled upon a charming little village that we had never heard of before: Auribeau. Tucked away in the heart of Vaucluse, this tiny village, with a population of just around 70 residents, turned out to be a delightful surprise. Auribeau © French MomentsDespite its Read more…
Welcome to the ‘Auribeau Guided Walk’, an enchanting chapter from our last journey through Provence! During a memorable 40-day stay in Bonnieux, our lovely home base, I explored this other picturesque village under the warm, gentle embrace of the early autumn sun. As the Provençal landscape basked in a serene, sunny glow, I meandered through the Read more…
Is there any need to introduce Aix, the historical capital of Provence? The charming town offers visitors a rich and fascinating architectural and cultural heritage. But beyond the homeland of Paul Cézanne and Emile Zola, there are many sites to explore. The Pays d’Aix, of course, but also natural sites, beautiful ruins, and typical Provençal Read more…
I’ve driven through Apt many times on my way to other destinations, always passing it by without a second thought. But during our last trip to Provence, I decided it was finally time to stop and explore this town that I had overlooked for so long. We parked our rental car along the quays and set Read more…
It’s rare to find a cathedral dedicated to St. Anne, the mother of Mary, which makes the Apt Cathedral, known as Cathédrale Sainte-Anne, truly unique. Most cathedrals are named after Mary herself, so this one stands out for its special dedication. During our last visit to Provence, I made it a point to finally explore Read more…
Every time we’ve stayed in the Luberon, wandering through the village markets has been a highlight. Among the bustling stalls, the famed Apt candied fruits often caught my eye. Yet, I scarcely gave them more than a passing glance in the past. Each time I returned home, my thoughts lingered on these quintessentially Provençal treats, tinged Read more…
Nestled in the heart of Provence, Ansouis is a hidden gem that exudes timeless charm and beauty. This enchanting village, renowned for its historic architecture and serene atmosphere, offers a perfect escape into the picturesque landscapes of the Luberon region. Wander through its narrow streets, discover hidden squares, and soak in the stunning views that Read more…
Welcome to the ‘Ansouis Guided Walk’, an enchanting chapter from our last journey through Provence! During a memorable 40-day stay in Bonnieux, our lovely home base, I explored this other picturesque village under the warm, gentle embrace of the early autumn sun. As the Provençal landscape basked in a serene, sunny glow, I meandered through the 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. I still remember the first time I wandered through its streets. The old town, with its elegant squares and meandering lanes, instantly captivated me. There was something about Read more…
Aix-en-Provence old town is enchanting: shady squares, elegant town-houses, lively open-air markets, … everything contributes towards making this Provençal town a memorable visit. Follow the guide! Where to stay in Aix-en-Provence Old Town? You can choose from a great range of accommodation in Aix-en-Provence, from hotels to B&B and campings! My recommendation is to Read more…
This is a brief account of Aix-en-Provence history. Its past is reflected in the churches and rich 17th and 18th-century manor houses in the old town. It is these witnesses to Aix’s history that attract the many tourists who come to discover the water city of the Romans. Aix-en-Provence History From the Roman Read more…
A sacred place for thousands of years, the Aix-en-Provence cathedral has become a religious landmark in Provence. The imposing church combines three architectural styles (Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque), due to the many alterations it has undergone over the centuries. Today, Aix cathedral is a national monument that is one of the most visited sites in Read more…
Aioli is a sauce based on garlic, egg yolk and olive oil is widespread from Catalonia to Italy, passing by Provence. The Provençal version often includes potatoes which along with the egg yolks gives the sauce a yellowish tinge and dense texture very similar to a mayonnaise. Ingredients 1 teaspoon of rock salt 1 medium sized Read more…
Provence immediately conjures images of lavender-filled fields, beautiful farmhouses and manors with their leafy terraces and linen-draped tables adorned with fresh-cut flowers, olives, local wines and dishes filled with sunshine. One of our favourite regions of Provence is the Luberon, which lies east of Avignon and north of Aix-en-Provence. This area has always been a Read more…
Although Cannes is famous for its glamour, beaches and international film festival, the surrounding area is also full of hidden treasures worth discovering. If you’re looking for good deals for a trip in France, to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and explore picturesque landscapes, you’ll be enchanted by the charming villages within Read more…
When I go to the south of France, I love visiting the country towns in Provence. It’s where you find beautiful monuments reflecting the country’s history, interesting shops, and lovely restaurants. These towns are full of charm and character. Walking through their narrow streets, you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The local markets Read more…
Many towns in the French Alps captivate with their unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From quaint lakeside retreats to lively cities surrounded by towering peaks, each town offers a distinctive taste of Alpine life. There’s something truly special about the way these towns embrace both tranquillity and adventure, inviting visitors Read more…
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