Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

This article is your guide to the must-see highlights of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, according to your preferences and interests. You'll find out all about the pearls of the Côte d'Azur, the hidden treasures of the Provencal hinterland, and the best outings in the Southern Alps. An invaluable tool for organizing your visit to this magnificent region, ready to offer you countless discoveries and unforgettable memories.

Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur - The jewels of the coast

Visit Côte d'Azur, also known as the French Riviera, is an idyllic destination for lovers of sun, sea and glamour. Stretching from Menton to Saint-Tropez, this fascinating region is dotted with charming towns and villages. These places have inspired renowned artists and attracted celebrities from all over the world. We invite you to discover four pearls of the Côte d'Azur, offering you a glimpse of the many faces of this exceptional coastline.

Nice, between sea and culture

As the capital of the French Riviera, Nice is one of France’s most popular destinations. Nestled between the magnificent Baie des Anges and the picturesque hills, the city is a true cultural hub. Discover the heritage through its museums dedicated to Matisse or Chagall, visit monuments iconic landmarks such as the cathedral the Russian Quarter and the Lascaris Palace, and take a stroll through authentic neighborhoods like the Old Town or Lympia Harbor.

Nice is also famous for its tasty cuisine, including specialties such as socca, salade niçoise and pissaladière.

Cannes, capital of cinema

Known the world over for its prestigious film festival, Cannes is an elegant city full of life. Stroll along the Croisette, admire the sumptuous yachts, explore the Lérins Islands or treat yourself to a shopping spree in the luxury boutiques.

Cannes is also a perfect base for visiting the hinterland and discovering hilltop villages such as Mougins and Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

Saint-Tropez, myth and reality

Emblematic of the Côte d'Azur's glamour and dolce vita, the village of Saint-Tropez, once a simple fishing port promoted by Brigitte Bardot, is now a must-visit destination for celebrities. Enjoy its beaches as far as the eye can see, from its gastronomy refined atmosphere, its exclusive clubs, and its Provençal market. Saint-Tropez, however, retains its authentic village charm with its old port, its citadel, the Sainte-Anne Chapel, and its traditional festivals such as the Bravade.

Monaco, luxury and splendor

Monaco, this world-renowned principality, is a prestigious destination on the French Riviera. Nestled between the sea and mountain, it showcases an exceptional cultural heritage. Visit the Prince's Palace, the Oceanographic Museum, the Exotic Garden, and the legendary Monte Carlo Casino.

Monaco also boasts a calendar of sporting and cultural events, including the Formula 1 Grand Prix, the Circus Festival and the Monte-Carlo Ballet.

The wonders of Provence's hinterland

The Provençal hinterland, a hidden treasure, offers landscapes stunning landscapes, charming villages, and unparalleled cultural richness. We invite you to discover four of its wonders, which promise an exceptional journey through time and space.

Gordes, a hilltop village in the Luberon

Gordes is one of the France's most beautiful villages, and stands out as a jewel of Provence. Perched on a rocky outcrop, it majestically overlooks the Luberon Valley. With its dry-stone houses, narrow cobblestone streets, medieval castle, and Sénanque Abbey, Gordes is breathtakingly beautiful. The village has also captivated renowned artists, such as Marc Chagall and Victor Vasarely, making it a major art destination.

The Verdon, a breathtaking canyon

The Verdon, Europe's largest canyon, offers a breathtaking natural spectacle of towering cliffs, brilliant turquoise waters and dense forests. This paradise for nature lovers and adventure sports enthusiasts offers hiking, kayaking, rafting, climbing and paragliding. The Verdon is also dotted with picturesque villages such as Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Castellane and La Palud-sur-Verdon, each with its own unique story to tell.

Aix-en-Provence, city of water, city of art

Aix-en-Provence, Aix-en-Provence, the historic capital of Provence, is one of the region's most elegant and cultural destinations. Renowned for its refreshing fountains, prestigious townhouses, colorful markets and inviting terraces, Aix-en-Provence is also linked to Paul Cézanne, the painter who immortalized Mont Sainte-Victoire. Visit his studio, the Musée Granet and the Caumont art center for a complete overview of his legacy. The town is also renowned for its delicious gastronomy, including the famous calissons, navettes and traditional pistou soup.

Les Baux-de-Provence, between history and exceptional panoramas

Les Baux-de-Provence, a medieval village listed among the most beautiful villages in France, is nestled in the heart of the Alpilles and offers breathtaking views of Provence from its rocky plateau. Steeped in history, the village is home to a fortified castle, a church Romanesque architecture and impressive cave dwellings. It is also a vibrant cultural hub, home to the Carrières de Lumières, which displays works of art on the walls of the former stone quarries, creating an unforgettable visual spectacle.

Getaways in the Southern Alps

Nature lovers will be delighted by the Alps of the South, with their diverse landscapes blending lakes, mountains, forests, meadows, picturesque villages, and vibrant cities. Here are four must-see getaways through the Southern Alps to discover remarkable sites, enjoy fun activities, and explore a unique cultural heritage.

Mercantour, between lakes and mountains

Visit national park du Mercantour is a jewel in the crown of the Alpes-Maritimes and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, stretching over six valleys. It boasts a rich biodiversity, home to over 2,000 plant species and 200 animal species, including wolves, ibex, chamois and golden eagles. Renowned for their breathtaking scenery, high-altitude lakes such as Lac d'Allos - Europe's largest natural lake at this altitude - and Lac de Vens offer breathtaking views, surrounded by waterfalls and marmots. And don't miss the Vallée des Merveilles, a captivating archaeological site housing over 40,000 Bronze Age rock engravings.

Serre-Ponçon, an Alpine jewel

Lac de Serre-Ponçon, France's largest man-made lake, is a marvel created by the construction of a dam on the Durance and Ubaye rivers. Situated on the borders of the Hautes-Alpes and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence departments, it fascinates with its deep blue waters, surrounded by beaches, islands and mountains. A paradise for water sports enthusiasts, Serre-Ponçon is ideal for sailing, canoeing and kayaking. kayak, paddleboarding, ski boating and fishing. The lake is also steeped in history, with the Saint-Michel Chapel rising from the waters as a reminder of the villages that were submerged when the lake was created.

Queyras, wild beauty

The Queyras, in the heart of the Hautes-Alpes, is a mountain range famous for its wild and unspoilt character, part of the regional nature park of the same name. With its snow-capped peaks, verdant valleys, larch forests and flower-filled mountain pastures, Queyras is an ode to nature. This region is a jewel box of traditions, home to typical villages, craftsmen, local produce and popular festivals. Lovers of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, mountain biking and horse riding will find a vast playground here.

Briançon, the fortified town to discover

Briançon, perched at an altitude of 1326 meters in the Hautes-Alpes, has the distinction of being the highest town in France. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is famous for its fortifications designed by Vauban, a testament to its strategic position. Briançon is a charming town, with narrow cobbled streets, colorful houses, fountains and churches. It is also dynamic, offering a wide range of cultural, sporting and festive activities, while being a haven for nature lovers with its exceptional sunshine and mountainous environment ideal for both winter and summer sports.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur departments

The PACA region comprises six departments 

• Alpes-de-Haute-Provence (04) : This department is characterized by its mountains, hilltop villages and vast natural spaces.
  
   
• Hautes-Alpes (05) The Alps: Located for the most part in the Alps, this département offers spectacular Alpine scenery, ideal for winter sports and hiking.
  
   
• Alpes-Maritimes (06) Côte d'Azur: Famous for its Côte d'Azur, this département is home to cosmopolitan cities like Nice and Cannes, as well as famous seaside resorts.
  
   
• Bouches-du-Rhône (13) : This department is the most populous in the region and includes the city of Marseille, its capital, as well as the Camargue.
  
   
• Var (83) The Var is famous for its beaches, forests and marinas. Toulon and Saint-Tropez are among its most famous towns.
  
   
• Vaucluse (84) This inland department is famous for its hilltop villages, lavender fields and Mont Ventoux.
  
   

Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur - Conclusion

If you're tempted to explore the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, she magnificent landscapes, With its rich culture, delicious cuisine and entertaining activities, you're making an excellent choice. This region is famous for its remarkable diversity and captivating beauty. Whether your heart is set on the splendor of the sea or the charm of the mountains, the bustle of the city or the tranquility of the countryside, fascinating history or works of art, you're sure to find something to satisfy your desires in this mosaic of territories.

Don't delay, plan your getaway to Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. An unforgettable experience awaits you!

FAQ

Which departments make up the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region?

The Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region comprises six départements: Alpes-de-Haute-Provence (04), Hautes-Alpes (05), Alpes-Maritimes (06), Bouches-du-Rhône (13), Var (83) and Vaucluse (84). These départements reflect the heritage of the former provinces of Provence, Nice, Comtat Venaissin and part of Dauphiné.

Who belongs to the Côte d'Azur?

The Côte d'Azur, a prestigious part of France's Mediterranean coastline, encompasses the Principality of Monaco as well as the departments of Alpes-Maritimes, Var and this part of Bouches-du-Rhône. Although the precise boundaries of the Côte d'Azur vary according to interpretation, it generally covers the area stretching from Cassis, Toulon, Hyères or Saint-Tropez in the west to Menton in the east, on the border with Italy.

Which department is not in the PACA region?

Drôme is the département that is not included in the PACA region, although it is part of historic Provence. It is part of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.

What's the name of the PACA region?

Officially named Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, the region has also been referred to as Région Sud - Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur in regional council communications since 2018.