Hyères: Things to Do and See

Why visit Hyères?

A destination between the Mediterranean and heritage

Hyères combines in a single trip a historic hilltop town, a vast Mediterranean coastline, and beaches, gardens, and several protected islands. Located in the Var department, the town stands out as much for its heritage as for its landscapes Marin: The city notes that it has approximately 40 kilometers of coastline and 2,400 years of history, while Visit Var highlights the medieval old town, the Belle Époque houses, the Giens Peninsula, and the Îles d’Or. This diversity makes it possible to go, in a single day, from a historic alleyway to a coastal trail or a beach.

Hyères is also an ideal starting point for exploring this part of the country without limiting the trip to beach tourism. The historic center stretches up the slopes of Castéou, beneath the castle ruins, while the neighborhoods facing the sea provide access to Almanarre, Giens, and the ferry terminals for the islands. To plan your first visit, the Heritage Department, located at L’Atelier du CIAP, 32 rue de Limans, 83400 Hyères, serves as a handy guide for finding information about tours and walking routes focused on local history.

A city of art, history, and nature

Since 2014, Hyères has held the «City of Art and History» designation, awarded by the Ministry of Culture. This designation reflects the importance of its architecture, its urban landscapes, and its historical heritage. In particular, the town preserves traces of antiquity in Olbia, a medieval center, villas, and former hotels linked to its rise as a winter resort in the 19th century, as well as modern landmarks such as the Villa Noailles. This heritage lends the stay a depth that not all resorts along the Var coast offer.

Nature plays an equally important role in Hyères. According to the municipality, 83 % of the municipal territory consists of natural and agricultural areas, including several Natura 2000 sites and areas connected to the Port-Cros National Park. This setting explains the wealth of possible experiences: hiking on the Giens Peninsula, birdwatching around the salt marshes, biking on Porquerolles, swimming, diving, or simply strolling among pine trees, palm trees, and the Mediterranean Sea.

Why Hyères Is Worth Spending Several Days In

Spending two or three days in Hyères gives you a better understanding of the destination’s unique geography. You can spend the first day exploring the old town and its historic sites, the second day in Giens and at the beaches, and the third day on Porquerolles or Port-Cros. This itinerary minimizes travel time and leaves you with plenty of time to enjoy the markets, outdoor cafes, and scenery, rather than turning your trip into a mere succession of sightseeing stops.

Hyères is therefore ideal for travelers seeking culture, nature, and the seaside. The city is equally well-suited for a weekend than just a longer vacation, since each area has its own unique character. In the following sections, the itinerary will detail the monuments Places to see, the best beaches, top spots, restaurants, how to get there, and practical information to help you plan each stop.

What to do in Hyères?

Explore the Old Town and the Arts Trail

The best way to explore Hyères is to start with its historic center, built on the slopes of the Castéou. The pedestrian-only streets, colorful facades, and sloping passageways give the town an atmosphere quite different from that of the coastal neighborhoods. The Parcours des Arts connects several major monuments, including the’church Saint-Louis, the Saint-Paul Collegiate Church, the Templars’ Tower, Saint-Bernard Park, and Villa Noailles. The city notes that this marked trail also allows visitors to explore artists’ studios and artisans’ workshops located in the historic center.

In Hyères, Place Massillon is a good starting point. There you’ll find the Templar Tower, also known as the Saint-Blaise Tower, the last remaining vestige of the commandery founded in the 12th century. The building once combined a chapel on the ground floor with military facilities on the upper floor; today it hosts temporary exhibitions. Address: Tour des Templiers, Place Massillon, 83400 Hyères. Admission is free, subject to the city’s schedule. To continue your walk, head to the Saint-Paul Collegiate Church on Place Saint-Paul, then gradually make your way up toward the higher parts of the old town.

For lunch without leaving the heart of the city, Le Jardin, 19 Avenue Joseph-Clotis, 83400 Hyères, offers Provençal cuisine featuring fish and regional specialties on a lush terrace. The restaurant states that it is open daily for lunch and dinner; however, it’s best to check the hours when making a reservation.

Walk up to the castle

The Château de Hyères overlooks the old town from Castéou Hill. Built beginning in the 11th century by the lords of Fos, this fortress became one of Provence’s most important strongholds in the 13th century before being dismantled in the early 17th century. Today, only ruins remain, but the climb is worth the detour for the panoramic view of the city, the harbor, the Giens Peninsula, and—when visibility is good—the islands.

In the town, this walk is particularly pleasant early in the morning or late in the day, when it’s not as hot. You can reach it by walking up the sloping streets of the historic center to the castle esplanade; be sure to wear appropriate footwear, as some sections are steep and uneven. The town occasionally organizes guided tours focusing on the history of the fortress. The announced meeting point is the’Château Esplanade, 83400 Hyères.

Visit Villa Noailles

Villa Noailles is one of the most unique cultural sites in Hyères. Commissioned in 1923 by Charles and Marie-Laure de Noailles from architect Robert Mallet-Stevens, it is considered one of the iconic works of modern architecture in France. The villa has hosted numerous figures from the artistic avant-garde, including Man Ray, Alberto Giacometti, Luis Buñuel, and Jean Cocteau. Now designated a contemporary art center of national interest, the villa currently hosts exhibitions dedicated to design, photography, fashion, and architecture, among other subjects.

Address: Villa Noailles, 47 Montée Noailles, 83400 Hyères. For the summer of 2026, the official website announces that the site will be open Wednesday through Sunday from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. between July 1 and August 30, with an admission fee and last admission 45 minutes before closing. Since hours vary depending on the season and exhibition setup periods, it’s best to check them before your visit. A small restaurant, La Langouste by Popolo, is also open in the villa’s courtyard during this time.

Taking a walk in the gardens

The gardens are another essential aspect of Hyères, which has long been associated with the acclimatization of exotic plants and the cultivation of palm trees. Olbius Riquier Park, Avenue Ambroise-Thomas, 83400 Hyères, covers about seven hectares just a few minutes from downtown. Visitors can enjoy a pond, lawns, flower beds, an exotic greenhouse, and a variety of plant species; it’s a family-friendly destination and a great place to take a break after exploring the city.

Saint-Bernard Park is located on the hills above Hyères Montée de Noailles, 83400 Hyères, at the foot of Villa Noailles. Its appeal lies as much in its Mediterranean plants as in the view of the city and the harbor. Admission is free; the city says it is generally open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. from March through October, with earlier closing times in winter. Sainte-Claire Park, 83400 Hyères, Edith-Wharton Avenue, offers a more intimate alternative with subtropical plants and an unobstructed view from the heights.

For this day of exploration, the most logical itinerary is to start in the old town, walk up to the castle, head back down toward Villa Noailles and Saint-Bernard Park, and then finish at Olbius Riquier Park. This route allows you to explore Hyères on foot while taking in medieval heritage, modern architecture, gardens, and scenic views.

The Most Beautiful Beaches in Hyères

Enjoy Almanarre Beach

Hyères boasts one of the most diverse coastlines in the Var department, and Almanarre Beach is one of its most iconic sites. This stretch of sand extends nearly five kilometers along the Route du Sel, on the western tombolo connecting the mainland to the Giens Peninsula. The beach offers an unobstructed view of the Mediterranean, with salt marshes on one side and the sea on the other. Its location is simply L’Almanarre, 83400 Hyères. Visit Var confirms that it is approximately five kilometers long and is located along the Route du Sel.

In Hyères, Almanarre is particularly well-known among windsurfers and kitesurfers. When the mistral blows from the west or northwest, the water can get rough and attract experienced riders. When the wind comes from the east, the beach is generally more sheltered. For beginners, Funboard Center is located Route de l’Almanarre, Almanarre Beach, 83400 Hyères and offers, among other things, windsurfing, kayak and paddle. Sea conditions and areas designated for water sports must always be observed.

For parking, there are several parking lots along the Route du Sel, and a large parking lot is available during the season near the Almanarre roundabout. The area gets very crowded in the summer: arriving early in the morning usually allows you to enjoy the beach in a more peaceful setting. For lunch overlooking the sea, Alma Café is located at the 3100 Route de l’Almanarre, 83400 Hyères. This beachfront spot offers dining, takeout, and seafood specialties.

Choose La Capte for a family swim

La Capte Beach is particularly well-suited for families visiting Hyères. It stretches along the eastern tombolo between the village of La Capte and La Bergerie. The water remains shallow for a considerable distance, making it easy to swim with young children, provided you follow safety guidelines and stay within the supervised areas. It is also better sheltered from the mistral than Almanarre Beach. To get to the beach, use the following landmark as a guide Traverse de l’Arrogante, La Capte, 83400 Hyères.

This part of Hyères makes it easy to combine swimming with a break in the village, where shops and restaurants are concentrated. The beach stretches nearly four kilometers and offers a view of the bay and the islands. Showers, public restrooms, and nearby parking are among the amenities listed by the tourist office. In July and August, however, the beach gets quite crowded; early morning and late afternoon are often the most pleasant times to visit.

For a meal with your feet practically in the sand, Le Tahiti Plage is located 120 Traversée de l’Arrogante, 83400 Hyères. The restaurant serves Mediterranean and Provençal cuisine with a view of the Îles d’Or. Reservations are recommended during peak season, especially in the evening. La Capte is also a great place to stop for a break before continuing on to Giens or La Tour Fondue.

Swimming at La Bergerie Beach

Further south, Hyères is home to La Bergerie Beach, a long stretch of sand between La Capte and La Badine. It, too, is sheltered from the mistral, and its shallow waters make it ideal for families to swim. Its convenient address is 31 Avenue de la Sablière, La Capte, 83400 Hyères. Several campgrounds and tourist facilities line this stretch of the coast.

La Bergerie is a great destination for travelers who want to alternate between swimming and water sports. Rentals and activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing, and catamaran sailing are available in the area depending on the season. The La Bergerie Parking Lot, 4 Avenue de la Bergerie, Giens, 83400 Hyères, is free and open year-round, according to tourist information published in 2026. During peak season, it's still a good idea to arrive early.

Discover La Badine and the beaches of Giens

The peninsula offers Hyères more secluded beaches and pine-lined landscapes. La Badine is one of the most accessible spots for a quiet day: the water is shallow, and the trees behind the beach provide shade at certain times of day. Access is from Giens, 83400 Hyères, along a path about 200 meters long at the end of Boulevard d’Alsace-Lorraine.

From La Badine, travelers can also extend their day by walking a section of the coastal trail toward La Tour Fondue. This combination of beach and hiking allows visitors to discover another side of the town, one that’s more focused on coves, pine trees, and views of Porquerolles. Closed-toe shoes are recommended as soon as you leave the sand to walk along the coastal paths.

Which beach should you choose in Hyères?

The choice depends mainly on the wind and the kind of day you’re looking for. Almanarre is ideal for wide-open spaces, sunsets, and board sports; La Capte and La Bergerie are better suited for families; La Badine offers a more lush, green setting. Finally, Les Pesquiers is an interesting alternative between the harbor and La Capte, featuring a pine forest and often fewer crowds.

Hyères monitors several swimming areas during the summer season and publishes water quality reports. The city also notes that eight lifeguard stations are set up each summer. Before heading to the beach, it’s a good idea to check the swimming conditions, the marine weather forecast, and any restrictions. This precaution is especially important on windy days, when sea conditions can change rapidly.

Things to Do in Hyères

Hiking Between the Coast and the Hills

Hyères is best explored on foot, as the town features a mix of coastal trails, wooded hills, and protected natural areas. In addition to the tour of the Giens Peninsula already described, travelers can visit the Borrels Nature Park, located northeast of the city. This 20-hectare park features a nature trail, an 11-station fitness trail, eight orienteering courses, and itineraries for mountain biking. It’s a great alternative on days when you want to get away from the beaches.

When hiking in the town, however, you should be mindful of the heat and the risk of wildfires. In the summer, it’s best to set out early, bring plenty of water, and check the access alerts for the mountain ranges before you leave. Closed-toe shoes are recommended on rocky sections. The Borrels Natural Park can be reached in the area of the Borrels, 83400 Hyères ; the local municipal office can provide information on the routes and access requirements.

Explore the city by bike

Cycling is one of the most convenient ways to explore Hyères without having to drive around too much. The city has identified approximately 42 kilometers of bike paths, including 36 kilometers of bike paths and bike lanes and 6 kilometers of shared-use paths. The network connects the city center, the waterfront, and several neighborhoods, while 30-zone areas make it easier to get around the city center.

To rent a bike in Hyères, Locabike is located at 109 Allée du Pousset, La Bergerie, 83400 Hyères. The shop offers mountain bikes, hybrid bikes, e-bikes, and children’s bikes. Another option is EnRoueLibre, in Ayguade, right next to the coastal bike path. In 2026, the published rates will start at 15 € for a half-day rental of a standard bike and €30 for an e-bike, or €25 and €45 for a full day. Reservations are recommended in July and August.

A simple route connects the port, Ayguade, and part of the waterfront. For a longer ride, cyclists can follow the coastal path toward Les Vieux Salins, taking care on sections shared with pedestrians and vehicles. In Hyères, the Tourist Information Office also provides a repair kit for minor repairs and brochures on cycling routes.

Try Scuba Diving

Scuba diving is one of Hyères’s signature activities, thanks to its proximity to Porquerolles, Port-Cros, and several shipwrecks well-known to experienced divers. The seabed offers the chance to explore Posidonia seagrass beds, rocky drop-offs, and Mediterranean marine life, while some clubs organize introductory dives available even for children, provided they meet the necessary requirements.

In Hyères, Plongeeo is located at 324 Ceinturon Survey, Ayguade Sector, with directions to the 2736 Boulevard de la Marine, 83400 Hyères. The center is open year-round in 2026 and offers introductory dives for ages 8 and up, snorkeling tours, and excursions to sites such as La Gabinière or the wrecks of the Donator and the Grec. For departures from Giens, La TribuBulles is located at 2378 Route de la Madrague, L’Arbanaise B36, 83400 Hyères. This small operation offers snorkeling, introductory sessions, training, and courses.

Beginners who want to dive in Hyères should set aside several hours, even for a first-time dive, since getting geared up, the briefing, the boat ride, and entering the water all take time. It’s also best not to schedule a flight immediately after a scuba dive: the safety interval depends on the dive profile and must be confirmed with the dive center organizing the trip.

Kitesurfing and Wingfoiling

Almanarre is the premier spot for board sports in Hyères. Its exposure to the mistral and the configuration of the double tombolo mean that conditions vary depending on the wind direction. The site has areas reserved for kitesurfing and also attracts wingfoil and windsurfing enthusiasts. Beginners are advised to take lessons at a school rather than venturing out alone on this renowned stretch of water.

Kite Center 83 is now open Route du Sel, Almanarre, 83400 Hyères. Open year-round in 2026, the school offers lessons and courses in kitesurfing, wingfoiling, and parawinging for various skill levels, as well as equipment rentals. The Spot Kitecenter, at the 1 Avenue de la Bergerie, 83400 Hyères, also offers kitesurfing, wingfoiling, parawing, and efoiling, with activities available for ages 8 and up, depending on the package.

In Hyères, the weather completely determines the quality of a session. Strong winds can make the sea challenging for a beginner, while certain wind directions allow for riding in calmer conditions. It’s therefore best to book a flexible time slot whenever possible and follow the school’s decisions regarding the spot used.

Getting Started with Windsurfing

Windsurfing has been a part of Hyères' sporting identity for several decades. Funboard Center, Route de l’Almanarre, Almanarre Beach, 83400 Hyères, offers lessons, workshops, and rentals of windsurfing boards, stand-up paddleboards, and kayaks. In 2026, the center plans to be open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the winter and until 9 p.m. in the summer.

Another landmark in Hyères, the HWO—Hyères Windsurf Organization—is located at 3192 Route de l’Almanarre. The school welcomes beginners and experienced windsurfers and wingfoil riders. For the summer of 2026, a windsurfing camp running Monday through Friday is listed at 200 €, while private lessons and other options vary depending on skill level and the time of year. This activity is well-suited for travelers who want to spend several half-days focusing on technical improvement rather than just a basic introduction.

Choosing an Activity Based on the Weather

Activities in Hyères should be chosen based on the wind, temperature, and sea conditions. A calm day is perfect for stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, or a first-time dive; the mistral wind is more appealing to experienced windsurfers and kitesurfers; a mild morning is ideal for hiking or biking. This flexibility makes it easy to adjust your plans without missing out on exploring the destination.

For a three- or four-day stay in Hyères, a good combination is to plan one land-based activity and one water-based activity: for example, a hike in Giens, a day of biking, followed by a first-time diving experience or a windsurfing lesson. This itinerary lets you enjoy the town’s scenery while discovering why its coastline is considered one of the Var region’s premier water sports destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hyères

Where is the city located?

Hyères is located in the Var department, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, east of Toulon. The municipality stretches from the historic center to the coast and includes the Giens Peninsula as well as Porquerolles, Port-Cros, and an accessible part of the Île du Levant. This geography explains why Hyères combines an old town, beaches, natural areas, and Mediterranean islands all in one destination. (Provence-Méditerranée Tourism Office)

What should you do first in Hyères?

For a first visit to Hyères, the must-see attractions are the Old Town and Villa Noailles, Almanarre Beach, the Giens Peninsula, and a trip to Porquerolles. If you have more time, add the Pesquiers salt flats, the coastal trail, and Port-Cros to your itinerary. The tourist office describes the destination as a region that combines a city of art and history, protected natural areas, and access to the three major islands.

How many days should I plan for?

Two to three days is a good amount of time to explore Hyères at a leisurely pace. One day is enough to explore the historic center, the Villa Noailles, and a beach; two days allow you to add Giens; three days give you enough time to spend a full day on Porquerolles. A four- or five-day stay then lets you include Port-Cros, a longer hike, or a water sport.

When is the best time to visit Hyères?

May, June, September, and early October are particularly pleasant times to visit Hyères: temperatures are generally ideal for walks and outdoor activities, while crowds are often lighter than in July and August. The Port-Cros National Park also recommends avoiding the two busiest months if possible to better enjoy the islands. In the summer, you should also be aware of the risk of wildfires, which may lead to the temporary closure of certain trails.

What are the most beautiful beaches?

Among the best-known beaches in Hyères are Almanarre, La Capte, La Bergerie, and La Badine. Almanarre is popular for its long stretch of sand and water sports, while La Capte and La Bergerie offer generally shallow waters, making them ideal for families. On the peninsula, the town also has coves accessible via the coastal trail. The choice of beach depends largely on the wind: regulars often switch sides of the peninsula depending on the conditions.

How do I get to Porquerolles?

The typical route involves traveling to the Tour Fondue, at the tip of the Giens Peninsula, and then taking a ferry to Porquerolles. The crossing takes about fifteen to twenty minutes, depending on the service and conditions. During peak season, it’s best to make a reservation and arrive early, as parking lots can fill up quickly. From Hyères, this excursion can easily take a full day.

Is it possible to visit the town without a car?

Yes, it’s possible to visit Hyères without a car, especially if your lodging is near the city center, the train station, or the harbor. Buses serve the Giens Peninsula, the beaches, and the Tour Fondue, among other destinations, while bicycles allow you to explore part of the coastline. For a car-free stay, however, you should allow extra time on days when the ferry is running and check public transportation schedules, especially during the off-season.

Where can I park to get to Porquerolles?

To travel to Porquerolles from Hyères, the parking lots around the Tour Fondue are the most convenient. They are very busy during the summer, and some require a fee. Arriving early or using public transportation reduces the risk of wasting time before boarding. For visitors staying near Port Saint-Pierre, a seasonal ferry service can also save you the drive to the Tour Fondue when it’s available.

Is this destination suitable for families?

Hyères is ideal for a family vacation thanks to the shallow beaches at La Capte and La Bergerie, the gardens, the bike paths, and the boat tours. Porquerolles can be explored by bike with children who are independent enough, while certain sections of the Giens trail are more challenging. The National Park recommends checking trail accessibility before setting out with a stroller or young children. Once there, alternating between the beach, short sightseeing stops, and nature activities usually works better than an overly packed schedule.