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How to spend one week in The South of France
This 7-day driver-guided tour of the South of France delivers the region’s most beautiful and iconic destinations in just 1 week.
From the glitz and glamour of Cannes and Saint-Tropez to the rich history and culture of Marseille, Avignon, and Arles, you will have the chance to immerse yourself in the diverse charms of the French Riviera.
Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or simply seeking to relax and unwind, this tour promises to leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So get ready to embark on a journey filled with breathtaking scenery, delicious cuisine, and endless adventure!
Day 1: Guided Tour of Nice
Nice is one of the most charming and captivating cities on the French Riviera! On this full-day guided tour, you will experience the rich history, culture, and beauty of this stunning destination. Your local guide will lead you on a journey through the city’s most iconic sights and hidden gems, giving you an unforgettable taste of life in Nice.
The tour begins with a stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais, where you can admire the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and take in the city’s relaxed, coastal atmosphere. From here, you’ll move on to the Old Town, known as “Vieille Ville,” and wander through its narrow, winding streets, admiring its vibrant colours, flower markets, and street performers.
Next, you’ll visit Place Massena, the main square in Nice, and see its stunning fountains, palm trees, and historic buildings. The Gothic-style Cathedral Sainte Réparate is another must-visit, where you can learn about its history and significance to the city. Finally, for panoramic views of the city and the sea, take a walk up Château Hill.
To delve deeper into the history and culture of the French Riviera, visit the French Riviera Museum, where you can learn about the region’s traditions and see its art and artifacts. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch at one of Nice’s local restaurants, where you can sample traditional French cuisine.
For art lovers, the Matisse Museum is a must-see. Admire the works of the famous French painter Henri Matisse, and learn about his life and legacy. Before the tour ends, stop by the flower market and see the vibrant array of blooms on display.
By the end of the tour, you’ll have a full appreciation for Nice’s rich heritage, stunning natural beauty, and relaxed coastal vibe. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a taste of the good life, this full-day guided tour is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Evening accommodation in the center of Nice.
Day 2: Cannes & Exploring The French Riviera
On the morning of day two, your private driver will collect you from your accommodation as you make the scenic 30-minute journey to Cannes on the French Riviera.
This full-day guided tour will take you on a journey through the city’s most iconic sights and hidden gems, offering you a glimpse into its rich history, culture, and beauty. Your local guide will lead you through the city, providing insight and information at every turn.
The tour begins with a visit to the iconic Croisette Boulevard, the city’s most famous promenade. Admire the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and see the luxurious yachts moored in the harbor. From here, you’ll move on to the Cannes Film Festival Palace, where you can learn about the history of this prestigious event and see some of the famous photographs and film posters displayed there.
Next, you’ll visit the historic Suquet neighborhood, where you can wander through the narrow, winding streets and admire the charming, colorful buildings. This area is also home to the 11th-century castle, which provides panoramic views of the city and the sea.
Afterward, you’ll stop by the famous Forville Market, where you can see the vibrant array of local produce and sample some of the region’s delicious cuisine. In the afternoon, visit the Notre-Dame-d’Esperance Chapel, a beautiful and historic place of worship that offers breathtaking views of the city.
For a taste of Cannes’ famous glamour, visit the famous Carlton Hotel, where you can admire its stunning architecture and imagine yourself sipping cocktails with the stars. End the tour with a visit to the Alain Puget Museum, where you can see an incredible collection of contemporary art and learn about the works of this famous French artist.
Spend the night in your hotel in Cannes.
Day 3: Tour of Saint-Tropez & Experiencing French Coastal Lifestyle
In the morning, your driver will collect you from your Cannes accommodation and deliver you to the coastal paradise of St Tropez.
Known for its luxurious lifestyle and celebrity visitors, Saint-Tropez has been a popular destination since the 1950s.
The city has a rich history, dating back to the 16th century, and was once a small fishing village. Today, it is renowned for its beautiful beaches, charming old town, and vibrant port, making it the perfect place to experience the French coastal lifestyle. Join us for a full-day guided tour to discover the history, culture, and beauty of Saint-Tropez.
St Tropez Old Town
Along with your guide, stroll through the charming and picturesque Old Town of Saint-Tropez, where you can explore the narrow streets and admire the colorful buildings. Take a leisurely walk and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, surrounded by history and culture. Your guide will lead you through the narrow alleys, past quaint cafés and colorful shops, giving you a glimpse into the daily life of the city’s residents.
As you wander through the Old Town, make sure to visit the Place des Lices, a bustling market square that is the heart of the city. This lively and vibrant area is filled with vendors selling a variety of goods, from fresh produce and handmade crafts to clothing and accessories. You can take a break from the tour and browse the stalls, sample some of the local cuisines, and watch the locals go about their daily routines.
At the Place des Lices, you can also see the famous café terraces, where you can sit and enjoy a cup of coffee or a light meal. From here, you can take in the sights and sounds of the square, soaking up the lively atmosphere and experiencing the vibrant culture of Saint-Tropez. This is a unique opportunity to get a true taste of the city and a memory you will cherish for years to come.
Stop at the Port of Saint-Tropez
Take a stop at the Port of Saint-Tropez, the best place to admire the luxurious yachts and boats that call this port home, as well as the lively atmosphere of the French coastal lifestyle. The port is a hub of activity, with locals and tourists alike strolling along the promenade, taking in the sights and sounds of the sea.
Lunch Looking onto the Sea
Enjoy a luxurious lunch with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea in Saint-Tropez.
Indulge in gourmet cuisine, expertly prepared by top chefs, while taking in the breathtaking views from a terrace overlooking the sea. This is the perfect way to relax and recharge during your full-day tour and to experience the best of the French coastal lifestyle.
Savor every moment as you dine in style, surrounded by beauty and elegance.
Visit the Citadelle
The Citadelle is a must-visit attraction on your full-day tour of Saint-Tropez. This historical fortification, perched high above the city, offers breathtaking views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Your guide will accompany you to the top, where you will have the opportunity to admire the panoramic views and take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
The Citadelle has a rich history, dating back to the 16th century, and was once a key military stronghold that protected the city from invading forces. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a fascinating place to learn about the city’s past. Your guide will provide a comprehensive tour of the fortifications and ramparts, explaining the significance of each area and the history behind its construction.
You will also have the chance to explore the interior of the Citadelle, including the museum, which showcases the history and legacy of the fortification. This is a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the history and heritage of Saint-Tropez and to admire the stunning views of the city and the sea from one of the highest points in the area. Don’t miss this exciting stop on your full-day tour of Saint-Tropez.
Musée de l'Annonciade & legacy of the Fauvist movement
The Musée de l’Annonciade, located in the heart of Saint-Tropez, is a must-visit destination for art lovers and culture seekers. This museum showcases some of the finest works of famous artists and painters from the Fauvist movement, including Henri Matisse, André Derain, and Raoul Dufy. During your guided tour, you will have the opportunity to admire these stunning works up close and to learn about the history and legacy of the Fauvist movement.
Your knowledgeable guide will provide insight into the artists and their works, explaining the significance of each piece and the story behind its creation. The museum is housed in a beautiful building that adds to the overall experience and provides a peaceful and serene environment in which to admire the works of art.
In the evening, you can choose to either return to Cannes with your private driver or spend the night on Pampelonne beach and stay in accommodation in St Tropez.
Day 4: Discover The History & Culture of Marseille
Whether you elect to stay in Cannes or Saint Tropez, the journey in our private vehicle will take just under 2 hours.
Marseille is the oldest city in France, with a history that dates back to 600 BC. Here are a few sights and experiences you can expect on a guided tour of Marseille:
Old Port
The Old Port is the heart of Marseille, surrounded by historic buildings and narrow winding streets. Take a stroll along the quays and admire the fishing boats, yachts, and colorful buildings that line the harbor.
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
This beautiful basilica is a symbol of Marseille, perched on a hill overlooking the city. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the harbor and city from the terrace.
Le Panier Neighborhood
This historic neighborhood is a maze of narrow streets, colorful buildings, and quaint shops. It is one of the oldest areas in Marseille and is considered the city’s bohemian quarter.
Marseille Soap Museum
Marseille is famous for its soap-making tradition, and the Marseille Soap Museum is a great place to learn about this fascinating craft. The museum displays the history of soap-making in Marseille, and visitors can see how soap is made using traditional methods.
Château d'If
This castle is located on a small island just off the coast of Marseille and was used as a prison in the 16th century. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can take a ferry to the island to explore the castle and its history.
La Vieille Charité
This former almshouse is now a museum showcasing works of art, ethnography, and archeology.
A guided tour of Marseille is a great way to see the best of this dynamic city and learn about its rich history and culture. Whether you are interested in history, culture, art, or just soaking up the atmosphere, Marseille has something to offer for everyone.
Stay overnight in Marseille.
Day 5: Provence: Explore the Beauty of Avignon & Rhone wine region
On day 5 of your week-long best of Southern France tour, your driver guide will take you to discover the best of Avignon and the Rhone Wine region. The journey will take you through the rolling hills and picturesque villages of Luberon, as well as the vineyards and olive groves of the region.
As you drive along the Rhône River, you will be surrounded by the rolling hills and vineyards of the region; this scenic route provides the perfect opportunity to admire the natural beauty of Provence.
Here are a few highlights you can expect on this tour:
Avignon & Papal Palace
This ancient city is known for its rich history and stunning architecture. The tour will take you through the city’s narrow streets and picturesque squares, including the famous Place des Corps Saints and the Place du Palais des Papes.
The Papal Palace is one of Avignon’s most famous landmarks and was once the residence of the popes during the 14th century. This magnificent building is now a museum, and visitors can explore its stunning architecture, frescoes, and courtyards.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wine Estate
This famous wine-making village is located in the heart of the Rhône wine region and is known for its rich history and excellent wines.
Visitors can tour the vineyards, taste the local wines, and learn about the history of wine-making in the region.
In the evening, return to your Marseille accommodation with your private driver.
Day 6: Visit Arles & The Roman Ruins
This excursion will take you from your accommodation in Marseille onto the historic town of Arles before culminating with you reaching your hotel in Montpellier.
Arles is a charming, historic city famous for its well-preserved Roman ruins and stunning architecture. Your tour will begin with a visit to the city of Arles, where you will be able to see its many historical monuments, including the well-preserved Roman Amphitheater, which dates back to the 1st century AD and could seat over 20,000 spectators.
You will also have the opportunity to visit the Roman Theater, which was used for both theatrical and gladiatorial events. The theater has been beautifully restored and is now used for outdoor concerts and performances. Another must-see is the Alyscamps, a Roman necropolis that was used for burials from the 4th to the 6th centuries AD.
After exploring the Roman ruins in Arles, your tour will continue to the nearby site of Glanum, a well-preserved Roman settlement that dates back to the 1st century BC. The settlement includes the remains of a Roman Temple, baths, and a triumphal arch, as well as several houses and public buildings.
Throughout the tour, your knowledgeable driver-guide will provide you with fascinating insights into the history and culture of the region.
End the day with your driver guide delivering you to your accommodation in Montpellier.
Day 7: Best of Montpellier
Your full-day guided tour of Montpellier will begin at 9:00 AM with a visit to the Place de la Comédie, the city’s central square and a hub of activity. From there, you will take a leisurely stroll down the picturesque rue de la Loge to admire the beautiful 17th-century architecture.
Next, you will visit the Montpellier Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, with its stained glass windows, high arches, and soaring towers. After admiring the exterior, you will have the opportunity to explore the interior, learning about its history and significance.
Following the visit to the cathedral, you will enjoy a lunch break at a local café where you can sample some of the city’s famous cuisine and soak in the atmosphere.
In the afternoon, you will continue your tour with a visit to the Fabre Museum, one of the city’s most renowned museums. Here you will have the chance to admire the works of great artists such as Caravaggio, Rubens, and Delacroix, among others.
Afterward, you will head to the historic Parc de Peyrou, an expansive public park that offers breathtaking views of the city and its surrounding areas. Here you will also see the famous Triumphal Arch, a monumental structure that commemorates Louis XIV’s military victories.
Your tour will end with a visit to the botanical gardens, which house over 10,000 species of plants from around the world, including a stunning cactus garden. You will have the opportunity to learn about the different plants, their origins, and the important role they play in our lives.
To bring our best of South France in 7 days itinerary to an end, you will have the option of continuing on to visit other regions of France or ending the day by being dropped off at the airport for your return journey home.
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Fill out the form below with the destinations, wish-list, an idea of budget, & preferences for your perfect trip.
Step 2
Your personal tour planner will be in touch within 24 hours of receiving your request to begin planning your custom itinerary.
Step 3
Your private guide and/or driver will meet you at the pre-arranged starting point of your tour and everything necessary for a seamless tour experience.
Get Your Bespoke 7-day Sothern France Itinerary
From the glamorous beaches of Cannes to the charming villages of Provence, this itinerary offers a diverse range of cultural and natural attractions. Whether you’re interested in history, art, gastronomy, or simply soaking up the Mediterranean atmosphere, this itinerary has something for everyone.
Visiting Southern France is a journey that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. The stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage, and world-class dining experiences make this region a must-visit destination. To make the most of your trip, consider contacting France by Luxe for a complimentary bespoke version of this itinerary. With our expert knowledge and personalized touch, we will help you create a truly unforgettable experience in Southern France.
Email us
Let us know your questions!
Call our team
+1 (424) 766-5955
WhatsApp us
We're here to help!
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