Before we begin this romantic journey down south, it’s worth clarifying that the “south of France” is a term that most often refers to the official region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. Tucked into the southeastern corner of the country, this region stretches from Avignon and the Alpilles mountains down to the Mediterranean coast, east to the Italian border, and north toward the foothills of the Alps.
Within this single region exists an extraordinary range of landscapes, villages, and ways of life. Broadly speaking, the south of France is defined by two distinct identities: Provence, with its rural stone villages surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and lavender fields; and the French Riviera, where palm-lined promenades, glittering ports, and sun-washed coastal towns set the pace. (You can learn more about the differences between Provence and the Riviera here.)
With so much diversity, it’s easy to fall for one village that pulls you back year after year. Finding your village is deeply satisfying, but it can also make it tempting to stop exploring altogether.
That’s why this list is limited to villages I’ve visited personally during my five years living in France. There are, of course, countless towns worth discovering in the south of France, but these are the places I return to most often — the ones that continue to feel romantic, no matter how familiar they become.
1. Saint-Paul-de-Vence
A dreamy artist’s retreat tucked into the hills just north of Nice, Saint-Paul-de-Vence was the very first Provençal village I ever visited — and it was love at first sight.
We stayed at Le Domaine du Mas de Pierre, a luxurious hotel just a few minutes’ drive from the village, ideal for travelers craving a serene, indulgent escape. For those who prefer to stay within the village walls, the exquisite Hôtel Le Saint Paul places you right in the heart of the action. Our September Provence Tour will be hosted from Hôtel Le Saint Paul — learn more here.
The narrow cobblestone streets wind past art galleries, artisanal food shops, and thoughtfully curated boutiques, each turn revealing another postcard-worthy view. On the edge of the village, a peaceful cemetery overlooks the Mediterranean and is home to a 16th-century chapel and the final resting place of artist Marc Chagall. And if dining surrounded by original works by Picasso, Matisse, and Kandinsky sounds irresistible, a meal at the legendary La Colombe d’Or is an unforgettable experience.
2. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
I was invited to stay at the beautiful home of the founder of Le Château de Ma Mère (featured in our September/October 2025 issue), and it didn’t take long for Saint-Rémy-de-Provence to completely win me over.
Set at the foot of the Alpilles mountains, this honey-hued village is surrounded by lavender fields, vineyards, and olive groves — an environment that naturally lends itself to quintessential Provençal boutiques and restaurants celebrating local produce and regional craftsmanship. Our September Tour to Provence spends a day in Saint-Rémy — learn more here.
Beyond the charming town center, you can follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh to the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole monastery, where the artist painted nearly 150 works, including The Starry Night. Nearby, the remarkably preserved ruins of Glanum, a 3rd-century Roman city, offer a striking glimpse into the region’s ancient past.
While there are several lovely hotels in town, we recommend renting a vacation home through Alpilles Provence Immobilier for a more immersive, local experience. Learn more about them here.
3. Aix-en-Provence
My first visit to Aix-en-Provence was on a wine tour departing from Marseille, and after just a few hours wandering its streets, I understood why so many people fall for it.
One of the epicenters of Provence’s wine country, Aix is brimming with lively bars and restaurants pouring the region’s best rosé. Even the buildings themselves, washed in warm shades of blush and ochre, seem to echo the palette of Provence wine.
Aix is also famously the birthplace of Paul Cézanne. Visiting his childhood home and former studio adds another layer to the experience, and as you wander the streets with the pale limestone mountains rising in the distance, it’s easy to see how the landscape shaped his work.
For accommodations, we recommend Hôtel Le Pigonnet, just outside the historic center, or a private rental through Alpilles Provence Immobilier. Learn more about renting a vacation home here.
4. Saint-Tropez
One summer, a man took me on a day-trip date to Saint-Tropez which set my vacation standards — and my dating standards — to an unreasonably high bar for the rest of my life.
Known worldwide for its glamorous beach clubs and designer boutiques, Saint-Tropez is, at its heart, a wonderfully charming village. While it’s tempting to splurge, it’s not necessary to dine exclusively at high-end restaurants or shop couture. The town is filled with welcoming bistros and brasseries, and its lively Tuesday and Saturday markets offer surprisingly affordable (and very chic) finds. Of course, for those with a taste for luxury, there is no shortage of options.
This coastal icon is undeniably magnetic in summer, but we recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons, when the crowds thin out and the village reveals a more authentic, local atmosphere.
For an indulgent stay, consider booking a room at Les Maisons du Sud or Hôtel Villa Cosy.
5. Villefranche-sur-Mer
Despite frequent visits to Nice, I was astonished to discover only a couple years ago that one of the most charming seaside villages on the Riviera is just one train stop — or a 15-minute drive — away from the city.
Villefranche-sur-Mer sits along a perfect bay, gazing across the water toward the peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Built vertically into the hillside, the village unfolds through a series of staircases that rise from waterfront restaurants to quiet, residential corners above. It’s a small destination, but the views of the glistening Mediterranean are nothing short of spectacular.
I love staying here in a local Airbnb, but Villefranche is also lovely as a day trip from Nice. The train station sits directly above the village’s small sandy beach, making connections simple — and the temptation to linger almost unavoidable.
These are the destinations in the south of France I find myself returning to when I’m in need of a romantic escape — with a partner or with myself! And while finding your favorite village may tempt you to stay put, the true romance of the south of France lies in constant exploration — allowing each new destination to surprise you, just when you think you’ve seen it all.
Written by Olivia Hoffman
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