Travel
The 5 greatest highway journeys within the Côte d’Azur
The Côte d’Azur has a legendary high quality; an historical stretch of shoreline with legends of the Cannes purple carpet and Monaco’s yacht-filled port. But regardless of its fame (and literal fortune), the ‘Côte d’Azur’ doesn’t have clearly outlined borders. The truth is, it by no means did. The time period initially comes from a novel by Stéphen Liégeard, the place the colourful blue hues of the Mediterranean have been poetically captured and linked to the attract of this coastal area.
So, when speaking about highway journeys within the Côte d’Azur, this loosely outlined geographical space can embody something from the far reaches of Provence within the west to the Italian border within the east, and from The Alps within the north to the Mediterranean within the south.
Dotted with charming villages, breath-taking landscapes carved by the weather and time, and a few of the most fun up-and-coming cities in France, a highway journey is likely one of the greatest methods to get to know the area as many of those areas are unimaginable to achieve by way of public transportation — and lots of shouldn’t be missed.
1. The Traditional Coastal Cruise
Finest for traditional Riviera views
Route: Saint Tropez to Good; 95km (59 miles); enable 4-5 days
Start your journey in glamorous Saint Tropez, the place you may discover the colourful Vieux Port and loosen up on the well-known Plage Pampelonne. Don’t miss the indulgent Tarte Tropezienne – an area pastry made well-known by Brigitte Bardot with candy vanilla cream sandwiched between buttery brioche. Although ubiquitous throughout France, go to Place des Lices for the unique.
Subsequent, head to Sainte Maxime, recognized for its lovely seashores and relaxed ambiance. From there, go to Port Grimaud, referred to as the ‘Little Venice of Provence,’ with its charming canals and colourful facades.
Proceed your drive to Cannes, famed for its movie competition. Stroll alongside La Croisette, admire the posh boutiques, and soak within the seaside ambiance. After Cannes, make your option to Antibes to wander the outdated city’s slender streets. Whereas on the town, go to the Picasso Museum or unwind on Plage de la Gravette, an ideal spot for a seaside day.
Lastly, head on to Nice, the French Riviera’s unofficial capital. Stroll alongside the long-lasting Promenade des Anglais (lovingly known as ‘La Promenade’ by locals) and discover the quaint streets of Vieux Good, crammed with native retailers and classy eating places. Hike up the Colline du Chateau for gorgeous views of the shoreline.
Native tip: Be aware of summer time crowds — and site visitors. Early morning begins and midweek visits can keep away from the height. Native vacationer places of work can present invaluable info on seasonal site visitors and updates.
2. The Mimosa Path
Finest for floral magnificence and seasonal appeal
Route: Borme-Les-Mimosas to Grasse; 130km (80 miles); 2-3 days
This scenic winter drive — La Route du Mimosa — winds by means of picturesque villages, from Bormes-Les-Mimosas to Grasse, celebrating the Côte d’Azur’s love affair with the golden Australian blossoms. Begin in Bormes-Les-Mimosas, a fairly village recognized for its medieval streets and colourful blooms, and make your option to Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer, the place the Jardin des Méditerranées provides guests a vibrant, immersive cease.
Proceed to Sainte Maxime, the place mimosa-lined avenues result in breathtaking views of the Golfe of Saint Tropez, after which onto the quiet village of Saint-Raphaël for a peaceable coastal retreat. Following the highway to Mandelieu-La-Napoule, you’ll attain the mimosa capital of the Riviera. Mandelieu hosts a Mimosa Pageant every February, that includes floral parades, native craft markets, and an array of festive occasions.
Finish the journey in Grasse, the place the mimosa is an important ingredient within the perfumes crafted within the metropolis. Go to iconic fragrance homes, like Fragonard, Galimard and Molinard, to see how the essence of those tiny blossoms is remodeled into fantastic perfumes. A cease on the International Perfume Museum provides an interesting perception into Grasse’s historical past as a middle for fragrance manufacturing over the centuries.
3. La Route Napoléon
Finest historic highway journey
Route: Golfe Juan to Grenoble; 320km (198 miles); 3 days
Hint the historic footsteps of Napoleon Bonaparte on La Route Napoléon, the legendary highway that follows his path from exile again to energy. Start in Golfe Juan, the place Bonaparte landed on his return from Elba in 1815. Take a second to discover the stunning harbor and seashores earlier than hitting the highway. From right here, head in direction of Cannes, the place you may stroll alongside the well-known Boulevard de la Croisette and maybe get pleasure from a leisurely lunch at one of many beachside eating places — Mademoiselle Grey is a specific favourite, however actually, they’re all fairly good.
Subsequent, cease in Digne-les-Bains, a historic city the place Napoleon paused throughout his march. Discover its charming streets, go to the native, quirky Musée Gassendi, and revel in a espresso at a restaurant overlooking the lavender fields close by. Don’t miss the scenic Bléone Valley, with its gorgeous gorges and cliffs, providing improbable mountain climbing alternatives.
Proceed to Sisteron, recognized for its spectacular citadel that overlooks the city. The views from the highest are spectacular, revealing the distinction between the rocky cliffs and the plush valley under. Take a stroll by means of the city’s winding streets, stopping by on the Marché Provençal for a fast peruse of native produce: assume honeys, native cheeses and farm-fresh fruit and veggies.
Subsequent, go away the Côte d’Azur for Hole, the gateway to the Southern Alps. This vibrant city is ideal for a lunch cease, with quite a few eating places and cafes serving regional specialties — look out for the tourtons from Papi Ours, little pillows of crunchy, fried pastry crammed with candy or savory fillings, like jammy tomato and pepper or a floral-sweet strawberry and basil. Take time to discover the city’s historic middle, or enterprise into the close by mountains for mountain climbing or biking.
Lastly, arrive in Grenoble, the place Napoleon’s journey got here to an finish. Life in Grenoble is all about nature and the outside, so when you’ve explored the town centre, take the cable automotive to the Bastille for panoramic views of the Alps to see why.
Native tip: Look out for the Napoleonic markers alongside the route, offering context about Napoleon’s journey. The most effective time to journey is spring or summer time when the lavender fields bloom, particularly round Digne-les-Bains.
4. The Wine Route
Finest for wine lovers
Route: Good to Bandol; 190km (118 miles); enable 4 days
Skip the busy major highways and hint the quieter coastal roads on a wine-focused highway journey from Good to Bandol. Start within the hills above Good on the prestigious Bellet AOP, only a brief drive from the town. Recognized for whites from Rolle and reds from Folle Noire, Bellet wines replicate the Mediterranean with mineral-rich complexity. Pattern wines at Clos Saint-Vincent or Domaine de la Source, providing fairly views overlooking terraced vines above Good’s shoreline.
From right here, head west towards Mont Sainte-Victoire, the guts of Provence’s Côtes de Provence AOP. Right here, the Sainte-Victoire subregion is understood for its celebrated rosés. Go to Domaine de Saint-Ser to style rosés with notes of ripe citrus and herbs, all set in opposition to Mont Sainte-Victoire. Make a cease in Aix-en-Provence for a Provençal dinner with a glass of native rosé.
Additional alongside, the coastal city of Cassis awaits, famed for its fragrant whites constituted of Marsanne and Clairette grapes. The recent sea air offers Cassis wines their crisp, mineral style. Attempt a tasting at Clos Sainte-Magdeleine for wines with scenic views of the ocean under. Afterward, stroll alongside the harbor of Cassis, the place seafood eating places supply excellent pairings for the native white wines.
Conclude your journey in Bandol AOP, residence to structured reds made primarily from Mourvèdre grapes. Bandol reds are wealthy and earthy, and rosés right here carry depth and character. Go to Domaine Tempier to pattern strong, savory reds, or head to Château de Pibarnon for wines with views over the rolling vineyards of Bandol.
5. The Valley of Marvels
Finest for prehistoric marvels and out of doors lovers
Route: Castillon to Vallée des Merveilles; 80km (50 miles); enable 2 days
Start your journey in Castillon, a captivating hillside village providing gorgeous views of the encircling countryside. Spend a while exploring its slender streets and soaking within the peaceable ambiance earlier than hitting the highway.
First cease is Sospel, simply 20 minutes away. This medieval city is understood for its picturesque Pont Vieux bridge and vibrant native cafés. Take a leisurely stroll by means of its little lanes, and don’t miss the possibility to seize one thing candy for breakfast at an area boulangerie.
Proceed your journey to Breil-sur-Roya. Nestled alongside the banks of the Roya River, this tiny, quaint city is ideal for a leisurely lunch at Le Flavie, serving home-style French cooking.
After lunch, head to the breathtaking Vallée des Merveilles. A 40-minute drive will take you to the trailhead in Tende, the place you may embark on a day of exploration. Recognized for its prehistoric rock engravings and gorgeous alpine landscapes, the Vallée des Merveilles is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers alike. Take time to hike the scenic trails, uncover historical carvings and revel within the distinctive rock formations.
Native tip: Observe that in-depth hikes to view carvings situated off the licensed path should be undertaken by authorized guides. Examine the local tourism office website for extra info earlier than you go to.
Suggestions for driving within the Côte d’Azur
· Roads: The roads within the Côte d’Azur are well-maintained, although they are often slender and winding in hilltop villages. Enable additional time to navigate these roads comfortably.
· Timing: Summer time months convey heavy site visitors, so plan for early morning drives or contemplate a go to throughout the quieter months of the 12 months, like spring and autumn.
· Parking: Parking in cities like Good and Cannes will be difficult. Search for designated tons, and be ready to stroll out of your automotive to central sights.
· Tolls: France’s autoroutes have tolls, particularly the A8, which stretches alongside the Riviera. Have money or a bank card prepared, as your rental automotive could not embody an computerized toll move.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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