Think lazy beach days, good wine in the sun, and charming villages that make you want to stay forever. A summer trip to the South of France isn’t about ticking off sights; it’s about slowing down and soaking it all in. Whether you’re into coastal towns, countryside drives, or just want to eat great food against beautiful scenery, this part of France has you covered. Here are five top reasons it should be on your summer hit list:
1. The Beaches Are Actually That Good
Forget endless stretches of crowded sand that look identical. In the South of France, each beach feels uniquely curated. Whether you’re after buzzy beach clubs or hidden coves, the Côte d’Azur serves up variety with style.
- Where to go:
- Plage Paloma (Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat): Tucked into a cove with pine trees and yachts just offshore. Low-key glam.
- Calanques de Cassis: If you like a bit of adventure, hike down to these jaw-dropping cliffs and swim in unreal turquoise water.
- Villefranche-sur-Mer: Just 10 minutes from Nice, this spot feels way more local but still boasts postcard views.
Tip: Pack water shoes as some beaches are pebbly.
2. You Can Sip Rosé Where It’s Made
In the South of France, wine tasting isn’t just a side activity; it’s a way of life. The region produces some of the world’s best dry rosé, and summer is prime sipping season.
- Go to:
- Domaine Tempier (Bandol): A family-run and fiercely traditional estate offering rosé with real depth.
- Château la Coste (near Aix-en-Provence): Modern art park meets biodynamic winery. Come for the wine, stay for the architecture.
- Les Vins de Provence Route A self-guided drive through vineyards around the Luberon, perfect for picnic stops and tastings.
Tip: Book tastings in advance, especially in July and August when tourism peaks.
3. The Markets Are Pure Provençal Joy
Forget sterile supermarkets. In this region, markets are vibrant, communal, and full of stories. It’s where locals shop, gossip, and plan their lunches. You’ll want to buy everything, from sun-warmed tomatoes to handmade lavender soap.
- Go to:
- L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (Sundays): A mix of fresh produce and antiques, set beside a canal-laced town.
- Apt Market (Saturdays): One of Provence’s largest and most authentic, dating back to Roman times.
- Nice Cours Saleya (daily): A flower and food market that wakes up the Old Town with colour and scent.
Tip: Make sure to bring cash and a reusable bag.
4. The Towns Look Like Movie Sets (and Sometimes Are)
Stone alleyways, sun-faded shutters, and lazy cats draped on window sills… the region offers the kind of rustic beauty you usually only see in films. Which is exactly why iconic feel-good films like ‘Chocolat’ and ‘A Good Year’ were filmed here!
- Go to:
- Gordes: Perched on a hilltop, with sweeping views and perfect light.
- Roussillon: Known for its red-ochre cliffs and colour-splashed buildings.
- Èze: A clifftop medieval village with cobbled paths and views to Italy.
- Saint-Paul-de-Vence: A magnet for artists, full of galleries and tiny cafés.
Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch that golden hour light.
5. You can soak up the history without setting foot in a museum
The South of France might be known for sun-soaked afternoons, long lunches, and great wine, but it’s also packed with culture. From Roman ruins and medieval fortresses to ancient aqueducts, history comes to life all around you.
- Go to:
- Pont du Gard: A jaw-dropping Roman aqueduct that’s still standing 2,000 years later. Fun fact: you can kayak under it.
- Arles: Home to a Roman amphitheatre and Van Gogh’s stomping grounds.
- Avignon: The seat of Popes in the 14th century, with a majestic palace and an iconic broken bridge.
Tip: Many sites are UNESCO-listed—check local tourism cards for discounted entry bundles.
✨ Want to Experience the South of France Like a Local?
Whether it’s a walking tour through Arles uncovering Roman ruins and Van Gogh’s legacy, a local-led stroll through Aix-en-Provence where you’ll learn the stories behind its sun-drenched squares, or a photography walk through Montpellier capturing its hidden corners, experience the South of France like a local with LocalBini.
Your summer story starts here: explore all experiences on LocalBini.
Header Photo by Antoine Contenseau on Unsplash
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