Information
Language
French
Currency
Euro (€)
Time difference
+1hr
Local beer
£6.00
Meal for two
£59.80
Average flight time
2-2.5hrs
A real looker
Palm-lined promenades, epic villas and pretty palaces – the South of France has rightly been the subject of art. Picasso, Monet and others have all been inspired! Surrounded by the glistening blue sea and topped off with lush green hillsides, it’s quite the sight. Plus, Menton adds to the colour with its blooming lemon groves!
Bright lights, bigger shores
Whether you’re a savvy shopper, eagle-eyed yacht-spotter or an avid dice roller, there’s something with your name on it here. Sports stars and celebs rock up for film festivals and fashion events throughout the calendar. It’s like turning the pages of a glossy travel mag and jumping right in!
From 0-60mph
Let the sound of revving V8s be the extravagant soundtrack to your coastal retreat. With so many unapologetically fancy avenues around the region, it’s no surprise that the F1 elite and supercar drivers park up there. Lamborghinis, Bugattis, classic Ferraris, modified Porsches? They're all waiting.
When is the best time to visit the South of France?
The ideal times to visit are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, perfect for sightseeing, and the crowds are thinner than in the peak summer months of July and August. September is particularly lovely for enjoying the sea without the intense heat.
Where can I find lavender fields in the South of France?
The best place to see lavender is in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, specifically in the Plateau de Valensole. The blooming season runs from late June to mid-August, with peak colour usually in early July. Other notable areas for lavender include the Luberon Valley and the fields around Sault.
What is the local cuisine like?
The South of France is famous for Mediterranean cuisine. Key dishes include Bouillabaisse (a traditional fish stew from Marseille), Ratatouille (vegetable stew), and Tapenade (olive spread). You should also try regional specialities like Socca (chickpea pancake) in Nice and Rosé wine from Provence. The region is abundant in fresh produce, olives, and herbs.
Are there good hiking opportunities in the South of France?
Yes, the region is a hiker's paradise. The coastal path, Sentier du Littoral, offers spectacular sea views along the cliffs. Inland, the Calanques National Park near Marseille provides rugged trails leading to hidden coves. For mountain lovers, the Gorges du Verdon (Europe’s Grand Canyon) offers dramatic trails with turquoise water below.