15 Best Cities in the South of France to Visit
Last Updated on October 9, 2026 by April Nicole
Are you looking for the best cities in the South of France to visit? From Mediterranean beach towns to medieval cities, this part of France offers beautiful scenery, fascinating history, and incredible regional food.
After living in Paris and traveling throughout France, I’ve had the opportunity to explore many of these destinations for myself. Each one offers something different, whether you want to relax along the French Riviera, browse a Provençal market, visit ancient Roman landmarks, or wander through a historic old town.
To help you plan your trip, I’ve rounded up 15 of the best cities and towns in the South of France, including popular destinations like Nice and Marseille and smaller places such as Cassis and Saint-Paul-de-Vence.
If you are in a hurry, here’s a summary of the most beautiful cities in the south of France:
Best Cities in the South of France
Marseille: A Historic City in Southern France
Founded by Greek settlers around 600 BC, Marseille is considered France’s oldest city and remains one of its most important Mediterranean ports.
What I enjoyed most about Marseille was its mix of cultures and contrasts. Fishing boats and waterfront cafés surround the Vieux-Port, while Le Panier and Cours Julien offer colorful streets, local shops, and vibrant street art. The city’s French, North African, Italian, and Mediterranean influences are also reflected in its markets and food.
Marseille is the main gateway to Calanques National Park, where limestone cliffs surround beautiful turquoise coves. Summer access may be restricted because of wildfire risk, and some areas require a free reservation during peak season.
Explore Calanques Boat Tours →
Top attractions: Vieux-Port, Notre-Dame de la Garde, Le Panier, Mucem, and Calanques National Park.
Foods to try: Bouillabaisse, panisse, navettes de Marseille, and fresh seafood.
Nice: One of the Best Cities on the French Riviera
Nice is one of my favorite cities in the South of France. Set between the Mediterranean Sea and the French Alps, it combines beautiful coastal views, colorful architecture, fascinating history, and some of the best food on the French Riviera.
I loved walking along the Promenade des Anglais, exploring the narrow streets of Vieux Nice, and seeing the city from the top of Castle Hill. Nice also makes an excellent base for day trips to nearby destinations such as Monaco, Èze, Antibes, Menton, and Cannes.
In 2021, UNESCO added Nice to its World Heritage List as the “Winter Resort Town of the Riviera,” recognizing the city’s history as an international winter destination. Its mild climate still makes Nice a great place to visit outside the busy summer season.
Top attractions: Promenade des Anglais, Vieux Nice, Castle Hill, Cours Saleya Market, and the Matisse Museum.
Foods to try: Socca, salade niçoise, pan bagnat, and pissaladière.
Aix-en-Provence: The City of a Thousand Fountains
Aix-en-Provence is an elegant Provençal city known for its fountains, outdoor markets, tree-lined streets, and connection to artist Paul Cézanne. Although “City of a Thousand Fountains” is only a nickname, you’ll find beautiful fountains throughout its historic center.
One of my favorite ways to experience Aix is by walking along Cours Mirabeau before exploring the smaller streets and squares of the old town. The city feels lively without being overwhelming, making it a relaxing addition to a South of France itinerary.
Art lovers can follow in Cézanne’s footsteps by visiting places connected to his life and work. His final studio, Atelier des Lauves, reopened in 2026 following a major restoration. Because its opening schedule and tours are seasonal, check availability before your visit.
Top attractions: Cours Mirabeau, Saint-Sauveur Cathedral, Atelier des Lauves, Place d’Albertas, and the local markets.
Foods to try: Calissons, daube provençale, tapenade, and regional cheeses.
Avignon: The City of the Popes
Avignon is one of the best cities in the South of France for history lovers. During the 14th century, it became the seat of the papacy, earning its nickname, the “City of the Popes.”
The city’s main attraction is the Palais des Papes, one of Europe’s largest medieval Gothic palaces. It forms part of Avignon’s UNESCO-listed historic center, along with the episcopal ensemble and Pont Saint-Bénézet, better known as the Pont d’Avignon.
I enjoyed wandering through the walled old town, where historic buildings, café terraces, and hidden squares sit behind remarkably well-preserved ramparts. Avignon also makes a convenient base for exploring Provençal villages, lavender fields, and the nearby Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region.
Explore Avignon Walking Tours →
Top attractions: Palais des Papes, Pont d’Avignon, Place de l’Horloge, Avignon Cathedral, and the medieval ramparts.
Foods and drinks to try: Tapenade, daube provençale, local olive oil, and Rhône Valley wines.
Montpellier: A Blend of History and Modernity
Montpellier combines a historic old town with the energy of a young, modern city. Located in the Occitanie region, it has a large student population, lively public squares, impressive architecture, and easy access to Mediterranean beaches.
I especially enjoyed exploring L’Écusson, Montpellier’s historic center, where narrow medieval streets lead to small boutiques, cafés, and hidden courtyards. The spacious Place de la Comédie sits at the heart of the city and is a great starting point for exploring on foot.
Montpellier has also been an important center for medicine and education for centuries. Its medical school was formally organized in 1220, while a papal bull established the university in 1289. Today, the city balances that history with contemporary neighborhoods, museums, and one of France’s largest pedestrian areas.
Top attractions: Place de la Comédie, L’Écusson, Montpellier Cathedral, Musée Fabre, and the Arc de Triomphe.
Foods and drinks to try: Brandade de morue, tielle sétoise, local oysters, and Languedoc wines.
Toulouse: The Pink City
Toulouse is known as La Ville Rose, or “The Pink City,” because of the warm pink and terracotta bricks used throughout its historic center. Located along the Garonne River in southwestern France, the city offers a wonderful mix of architecture, history, food, and modern culture.
The impressive Place du Capitole is the heart of Toulouse and a natural starting point for exploring the city. From there, you can visit Romanesque churches, walk beside the river, or relax at one of the cafés lining its lively squares.
Toulouse is also an important center for France’s aerospace industry. The Cité de l’Espace offers interactive exhibits about space exploration and makes an interesting change from the city’s historical attractions.
Top attractions: Place du Capitole, Basilica of Saint-Sernin, Couvent des Jacobins, the Garonne riverfront, and Cité de l’Espace.
Foods to try: Cassoulet, Toulouse sausage, croustade aux pommes, and local cheeses.
Nîmes: The Rome of France
Nîmes is one of the best places to visit in southern France for Roman history. Often called the “Rome of France,” the city was known as Nemausus during the Roman era and still contains some of the country’s best-preserved ancient monuments.
When I visited Nîmes, I was especially impressed by the Arènes de Nîmes, a Roman amphitheater that continues to host concerts and events. The nearby Maison Carrée is an exceptionally well-preserved Roman temple that was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2023.
Beyond its Roman landmarks, Nîmes has a walkable historic center filled with cafés, shops, fountains, and shaded public squares. The beautiful Jardins de la Fontaine offer a peaceful place to walk among landscaped gardens and ancient ruins.
Top attractions: Arènes de Nîmes, Maison Carrée, Jardins de la Fontaine, Tour Magne, and Musée de la Romanité.
Foods to try: Brandade de Nîmes, tapenade, petits pâtés nîmois, and olives from the surrounding region.
Carcassonne: A Medieval City in Southern France
Carcassonne is one of the most impressive medieval destinations in the South of France. Located in the Occitanie region, the city is best known for the Cité de Carcassonne, its UNESCO-listed fortified old town.
The Cité has 52 towers and two concentric walls stretching for approximately three kilometers. Its defenses developed over many centuries, with sections dating to the late Roman period and major additions made during the 12th and 13th centuries.
Walking through its gates and along its cobblestone streets feels like stepping into another time. Entry to the medieval streets is free, but you’ll need a ticket to visit the Château Comtal and walk along the inner ramparts.
Don’t overlook the lower town, known as the Bastide Saint-Louis, where you’ll find local shops, restaurants, and a less touristy side of Carcassonne.
Top attractions: Cité de Carcassonne, Château Comtal, Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, the medieval ramparts, and Bastide Saint-Louis.
Foods and drinks to try: Cassoulet, duck confit, regional cheeses, and Languedoc wines.
Arles: A City of Art and History
Arles is one of my favorite places in Provence for art and ancient history. Once an important Roman colony known as Arelate, the city is home to an impressive collection of Roman and Romanesque monuments recognized by UNESCO.
The Arles Amphitheatre is the city’s most famous landmark and is still used for events today. Arles is also closely connected to Vincent van Gogh, who created hundreds of paintings and drawings during his time here. Although his famous Yellow House no longer exists, you can follow a marked walking route to locations that inspired works such as The Yellow House, Café Terrace at Night, and Starry Night Over the Rhône.
Arles is also a convenient gateway to the Camargue, a protected region known for its wetlands, white horses, black bulls, and pink flamingos. Exploring this landscape on horseback was one of the highlights of my visit.
Top attractions: Arles Amphitheatre, Roman Theatre, Saint-Trophime Church, Van Gogh walking route, and LUMA Arles.
Foods to try: Gardiane de taureau, Camargue rice, tapenade, and fougasse.
Perpignan: A Blend of French and Catalan Cultures
Perpignan combines southern French charm with a strong Catalan identity. Located in the Occitanie region near the Spanish border, the city’s architecture, food, language, and traditions reflect its close connection to Catalonia.
Perpignan’s historic center is easy to explore on foot, with colorful buildings, palm-lined squares, local markets, and landmarks such as Le Castillet. Catalan culture is also celebrated through annual events including the Fête de la Saint-Jean and Festa Catalana.
The Mediterranean coast and nearby towns such as Collioure make Perpignan a convenient base for exploring this less-visited part of southern France.
Top attractions: Palace of the Kings of Majorca, Le Castillet, Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral, Campo Santo, and Place de la Loge.
Foods to try: Boles de picolat, cargolade, escalivada, crème catalane, and anchovies from nearby Collioure.
Saint-Paul-de-Vence: An Artistic Haven
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a small medieval hilltop village known for its stone streets, historic ramparts, art galleries, and sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Although it isn’t technically a city, it deserves a place on this list because it offers a completely different experience from the larger destinations in southern France.
The village has attracted artists and writers for decades, and its narrow streets are still lined with contemporary galleries and studios. Just outside the historic center, the Fondation Maeght houses an important collection of modern and contemporary art. The foundation expanded in 2024 with approximately 500 square meters of new gallery space.
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is easy to visit as a day trip from Nice, but arriving early will give you time to explore before the village becomes crowded.
Top attractions: Fondation Maeght, the historic ramparts, local art galleries, Place du Jeu de Boules, and the Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs.
Foods and drinks to try: Provençal dishes, local olive oil, regional cheeses, and wines from Provence.
Antibes: A Coastal Gem
Located between Nice and Cannes, Antibes combines a charming old town, Mediterranean beaches, and an impressive marina. It’s an easy day trip from Nice but also worth an overnight stay.
I enjoyed exploring Vieil Antibes, browsing the Provençal Market, and walking along the seaside ramparts. The Picasso Museum, housed inside Château Grimaldi, displays works Picasso created during his time in Antibes.
For coastal views, visit the Cap d’Antibes peninsula and walk part of the Sentier du Littoral. Sections may close during rough weather, so check local conditions before visiting.
Top attractions: Vieil Antibes, Picasso Museum, Provençal Market, Port Vauban, and Cap d’Antibes.
Foods to try: Fresh seafood, pissaladière, socca, and tapenade.
Cassis: A Beautiful Town in the South of France
Cassis is a colorful fishing town located between Calanques National Park and the towering cliffs of Cap Canaille. Its waterfront, beaches, and surrounding vineyards make it one of the prettiest coastal destinations in Provence.
The town is a popular base for visiting the Calanques by boat or on foot. Hiking access and the Route des Crêtes may close during periods of high wildfire risk or severe weather, so check current conditions before visiting.
Cassis is easily reached from Marseille, making it a convenient day trip. However, staying overnight allows you to enjoy the harbor after many daytime visitors have left.
Top attractions: Cassis Harbour, Calanques National Park, Plage de la Grande Mer, Cap Canaille, and Route des Crêtes.
Foods and drinks to try: Fresh seafood, bouillabaisse, Provençal dishes, and Cassis white wine.
Biarritz: Surfing and Sophistication
Biarritz is an elegant seaside resort on France’s Basque Coast. Once a fishing village, it became fashionable in the 19th century after Empress Eugénie chose it as a summer retreat.
Today, Biarritz is known for its Belle Époque architecture, Atlantic beaches, Basque food, and surfing culture. Grande Plage is ideal for enjoying the city’s waterfront, while Côte des Basques is its most iconic surfing beach.
Top attractions: Grande Plage, Côte des Basques, Rocher de la Vierge, Biarritz Aquarium, and Hôtel du Palais.
Foods to try: Pintxos, gâteau basque, Bayonne ham, and fresh seafood.
Albi: A Historical and Architectural Jewel
Albi is a historic city in southwestern France known for its red-brick architecture and beautiful setting along the Tarn River. Its remarkably preserved Episcopal City is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The city’s most impressive landmark is Sainte-Cécile Cathedral, considered the world’s largest brick-built cathedral. Nearby, the Palais de la Berbie houses the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum and an extensive collection of works by the Albi-born artist.
Top attractions: Sainte-Cécile Cathedral, Toulouse-Lautrec Museum, Palais de la Berbie gardens, Pont Vieux, and the historic center.
Foods to try: Aligot, cassoulet, charcuterie from the Tarn, and local Gaillac wines.
Where to Stay in the South of France
Choosing where to stay in the South of France depends on the type of trip you’re planning. Some cities make excellent bases for exploring nearby towns, while others are better suited to a relaxing coastal escape.
Nice: One of the best bases for exploring the French Riviera, especially if you want to visit nearby destinations by train or take organized day trips.
Marseille: A good choice for travelers interested in Mediterranean culture, food, coastal scenery, and visiting the Calanques.
Avignon: An excellent base for discovering Provence’s historic towns, vineyards, and surrounding countryside.
→ Browse places to stay in Avignon
For a first visit, I’d start by comparing accommodation in Nice and Avignon, then choose the base that best fits the places you want to explore.
How to Get Around the South of France
The best way to explore the South of France depends on which cities you want to visit.
Traveling by train: Major destinations such as Nice, Marseille, Avignon, Montpellier, and Toulouse are connected by France’s rail network. Trains can be especially convenient if you’re planning a city-focused itinerary without renting a car.
→ Compare train routes in the South of France
Renting a car: If you want to explore smaller Provençal villages, rural vineyards, or countryside destinations, renting a car can give you more flexibility. Keep in mind that parking in historic city centers can be limited or expensive.
→ Compare rental cars in the South of France
If you’re visiting several destinations, consider choosing one or two bases rather than changing hotels every night.
Final Thoughts on the Best Cities in the South of France
From the beaches of Nice to the medieval walls of Carcassonne, the South of France offers something for every type of traveler.
For a first visit, Nice, Marseille, and Aix-en-Provence are great starting points. History lovers may prefer Avignon, Arles, or Nîmes, while Cassis and Saint-Paul-de-Vence are perfect for a slower-paced escape.
Whichever destinations you choose, leave enough time to enjoy the food, culture, and atmosphere that make southern France so special.
I’ve only visited Paris and Bordeaux in France so far, but St. Tropez and Albi look absolutely beautiful!
I definitely think that you’ll love St. Tropez. It has such a different vibe from that of Paris and Bordeaux.
Hands down Nice is the best city in the south of France! I visit there almost every summer and it never gets old.
I’ve only been to Nice one time, but it was instant love! Can’t wait to visit there in the summer.
I love that you included both big and small cities to visit. There’s something for everyone to enjoy
To the fromparistoprovence.com owner, You always provide practical solutions and recommendations.