26 must-do activities in the PACA region
The Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region is a veritable Mediterranean jewel, fascinating visitors with its exceptional diversity. From the golden beaches of the Côte d’Azur to the snow-capped peaks of the Alps, from the lavender fields of the Valensole plateau to the hilltop villages of the Luberon, the PACA region offers a range of unforgettable experiences. This land blessed by the gods, immortalised by Cézanne and Van Gogh, seduces visitors with its unique art of living, its thousand-year-old heritage and its breathtaking landscapes. Here is our selection of the 26 must-see places that make this region one of the most popular destinations in the world.
1. The calanques of Marseille and Cassis
The calanques of Marseille and Cassis are one of Europe’s most spectacular natural gems. These Mediterranean fjords, with their turquoise waters contrasting with the white limestone cliffs, offer breathtaking panoramas. The Calanques National Park, created in 2012, protects this exceptional heritage where land and sea meet over 520km². The calanques of En-Vau, Sormiou and Sugiton are all natural wonders accessible by hiking trails or by boat from Marseille.
See also the Marseille guide :
- The most beautiful creeks in Marseille and Cassis
- Activities in and around Marseille
- Top 11 specialities in Marseille
- The 5 best straw huts around Marseille
- 20 not-to-be-missed excursions around Marseille
- The 10 most beautiful beaches in Marseille
- The 9 most beautiful districts to visit in Marseille
2. The Valensole plateau and its lavender fields
The Valensole plateau, a veritable purple sea stretching over 800km², is the picture postcard image of Provence. From mid-June to mid-July, this region of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence is transformed into a life-size impressionist painting. Fields of true lavender and lavandin stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a hypnotic landscape enhanced by the intoxicating scent of the flowers. Photography enthusiasts will find exceptional backdrops here, particularly at sunrise and sunset.
3. The Verdon gorges
Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of Europe”, the Verdon gorges offer a breathtaking natural spectacle. This fault, 25 kilometres long and up to 700 metres deep, was carved out by the Verdon river, whose waters are a unique emerald green. You can admire the breathtaking scenery from the panoramic roads on the right and left banks, while the more adventurous can try their hand at rafting, canoeing or climbing. The Sainte-Croix and Esparron lakes complete this grandiose setting.
4. The Palais des Papes in Avignon
The Palais des Papes, the emblematic monument of Avignon, bears witness to the grandeur of the papacy in the 14th century. This Gothic fortress, the largest Gothic palace in the world, was the residence of nine successive popes. Its imposing towers, remarkable frescoes and large audience fascinate visitors. The famous Pont d’Avignon (Pont Saint-Bénézet) completes this exceptional historical discovery. Let the Navaway audio tour for Avignon be your guide as you explore the city.
Download the audio tour to discover Avignon on foot and on your own
Explore the City of the Popes with our audio itinerary for Avignon, which will take you through the historic streets, from the majestic Palais des Papes to the gardens of the Rocher des Doms, via the perfectly preserved ramparts. This 5.4 km route takes you through 2,000 years of history in 2 hours 10 minutes, with 27 fascinating audio guides.
5. Nice and the Promenade des Anglais
Nice, capital of the Côte d’Azur, is a city of Mediterranean elegance. The legendary Promenade des Anglais runs for 7 kilometres along the Bay of Angels, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Old Nice, with its colourful alleyways and Provencal markets, contrasts with the magnificence of the Belle Époque palaces. The Château hill offers an exceptional panorama, while the many museums (Matisse, Chagall, Masséna) enhance this cultural discovery. For a complete visit, follow the Navaway itinerary for Nice.
6. Saint-Tropez and the Mediterranean myth
Saint-Tropez embodies the Mediterranean art of living and the glamour of the Côte d’Azur. This former fishing village, immortalised by Brigitte Bardot, has managed to preserve its Provencal charm despite its worldwide fame. The Old Port with its luxury yachts, the colourful streets of the historic centre and the famous beaches of Pampelonne are a must-see. The Musée de l’Annonciade houses a remarkable collection of modern art. Discover the secrets of this legendary city on the Navaway audio tour of Saint-Tropez.
7. Les Baux-de-Provence
Classed as one of France’s Most Beautiful Villages, Les Baux-de-Provence sits majestically on a rocky outcrop in the Alpilles. This medieval village, with its perfectly restored white stone houses, offers exceptional panoramic views over the Camargue and the Crau plain. The ruined castle, the former quarries transformed into the Carrières de Lumières, offering spectacular multimedia shows, and the many art galleries make this a cultural and historical must-see in Provence.
8. Sénanque Abbey
Nestling in a secret valley near Gordes, Sénanque Abbey is one of the jewels of Cistercian art in Provence. Founded in 1148, this Romanesque abbey with its pure lines is surrounded by fields of lavender, which create a strikingly beautiful picture in July. The Cistercian monks who still live here are carrying on an age-old tradition. A visit to the abbey church, cloister and dormitory reveals the simple yet harmonious architecture of the Cîteaux order.
9. Mont Ventoux
Nicknamed the “Giant of Provence”, Mont Ventoux rises to 1,912 metres and majestically dominates the region. This mythical cycling mountain, a legendary stage in the Tour de France, offers exceptional panoramic views from its bare summit. On a clear day, the view stretches from the Alps to the Mediterranean. The slopes of the Ventoux are home to remarkable flora and picturesque villages such as Malaucène and Bédoin. Climbing it, whether on foot, by bike or by car, is an unforgettable experience.
10. Aix-en-Provence and Mont Sainte-Victoire
Aix-en-Provence, the elegant city of a thousand fountains, charms visitors with its exceptional architectural heritage. The Cours Mirabeau, lined with century-old plane trees and historic cafés, the old town with its 17th- and 18th-century town houses, and the colourful markets create a unique atmosphere. Mont Sainte-Victoire, immortalised by Cézanne in his many paintings, offers magnificent walks and splendid panoramic views.Cézanne’s studio perpetuates the memory of the master of modern art. For a complete discovery, follow theNavaway audio tour of Aix-en-Provence.
Download the audio tour to discover Aix-en-Provence on foot and on your own
Explore the city of fountains with our audio tour of Aix-en-Provence, which takes you from Place de la Rotonde to the Mazarin district, via Cours Mirabeau and Saint-Sauveur cathedral. This 3.8 km walk reveals the secrets of the city of Aix in 2 hours 20 minutes with 24 captivating audio guides.
11. Cannes and the Croisette
Cannes, the international showcase for cinema, fascinates with its elegance and refinement. The Croisette, a prestigious promenade lined with palaces and luxury boutiques, offers a breathtaking view of the bay and the Lérins islands. The Palais des Festivals, scene of the famous Cannes Film Festival, the Old Port with its sumptuous yachts, and the Suquet (old town) with its picturesque alleyways complete this glamorous discovery. The Lérins islands, just a short boat ride away, offer a haven of Mediterranean peace.
12. Marseille and Notre-Dame de la Garde
Marseille, a thousand-year-old Phocaean city, surprises with its diversity and authenticity. Notre-Dame de la Garde, the “Good Mother” of the Marseillais, dominates the city from its hilltop, offering an exceptional panorama of the city and the Mediterranean. The Old Port, the beating heart of the city, the Panier district with its colourful facades, and the MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisation) illustrate Marseille’s cultural wealth. The Navaway audio tour of Marseille will help you discover all these treasures.
13. The islands of Hyères (Porquerolles, Port-Cros, Le Levant)
The islands of Hyères, nicknamed the “Golden Islands”, are an unspoilt Mediterranean paradise. Porquerolles, the largest of the islands, boasts white sandy beaches, botanical trails and a picturesque village. Port-Cros, a national marine park, boasts exceptional seabeds and remarkable flora. The wilder Le Levant attracts lovers of naturism and tranquillity. Accessible from Hyères, Toulon or Le Lavandou, these islands offer an authentic, unspoilt Mediterranean experience.
14. Antibes and Cap d’Antibes
Antibes, an ancient Greek city, charms visitors with its historic heritage and gentle way of life. The Vauban ramparts, the Picasso museum housed in the Château Grimaldi, and the Provencal market on the Cours Masséna create a unique atmosphere. Cap d’Antibes, with its sumptuous villas, coastal path and the most beautiful beaches in Antibes, embodies the Mediterranean art of living. The Villa Eilenroc and its gardens offer exceptional views of the Alps and the Mediterranean.
15. The Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild
The architectural jewel of Cap Ferrat, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild bears witness to the art of living of the Belle Époque. This pink Italian Renaissance-style villa, built in the early 20th century by Baroness Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild, houses exceptional collections of art and furniture. The nine themed gardens (French, Spanish, Japanese, exotic, etc.) that surround it provide a green setting overlooking the Mediterranean. The villa offers a fascinating insight into the refined world of European aristocracy.
16. Gordes and the Luberon
Gordes, one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France, stands proudly on the slopes of the Luberon. This hilltop village of pale stone houses offers exceptional panoramic views over the Calavon valley and the Vaucluse mountains. The Renaissance château, the church of Saint-Firmin and the cobbled streets create an enchanting backdrop. The surrounding area is full of treasures: the Abbey of Sénanque, the village of Bories (dry stone buildings), and the ochre paths of Roussillon complete this discovery of the authentic Luberon.
17. The Provençal Colorado of Rustrel
The Provençal Colorado of Rustrel offers a striking geological spectacle in the heart of the Luberon. These former ochre quarries, exploited until the middle of the 20th century, have created a flamboyantly coloured landscape reminiscent of the American West. The signposted footpaths take in the fairy chimneys, rocky spires and cliffs in shades of red, orange, yellow and purple. The village of Roussillon, with its houses with ochre-coloured facades and the Ochre Trail, completes this exceptional geological discovery.
18. The Camargue
A delta of the Rhône, the Camargue is a wetland unique in Europe. This wild land, shaped by the waters of the river and the Mediterranean, is home to exceptional flora and fauna. White horses, black bulls and pink flamingos are the emblems of this mysterious region. Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a major place of pilgrimage, Arles with its Roman arenas and historic heritage, and the many mas camarguais (Camargue farmhouses) provide an opportunity to discover this unique culture combining bullfighting traditions and Provençal hospitality.
19. Arles and its Roman heritage
Arles, a city of art and history, fascinates visitors with its exceptional Roman heritage. The arena, one of the best-preserved amphitheatres in the Roman world, the ancient theatre and Constantine’s baths bear witness to the grandeur of Arelate. The city inspired Van Gogh, who painted some of his most famous works here. The historic centre, the banks of the Rhône and the museums (Musée de l’Arles Antique, Fondation Van Gogh) complete this exceptional cultural experience.
20. Menton and the authentic Côte d’Azur
Menton, the “Pearl of France”, charms visitors with its gentle way of life and well-preserved heritage. This border town, renowned for its lemons and exceptional microclimate, boasts some remarkable botanical gardens (Serre de la Madone garden, Val Rahmeh botanical garden). The old town with its colourful facades, the Basilica of Saint-Michel and the pebble beaches create a unique Italian atmosphere. The famous Lemon Festival lights up the town every February.
21. L’Estérel and the Corniche d’Or
The Estérel massif, between Cannes and Saint-Raphaël, offers contrasting landscapes of striking beauty. These red porphyry mountains, the remains of an ancient volcano, plunge into the Mediterranean, creating secret coves with crystal-clear waters. The Corniche d’Or, a legendary road running along the coast, offers exceptional panoramic views of the Lérins islands and the Esterel. Hiking to the Pic de l’Ours or Cap Roux is a great way to discover the flamboyant colours of unspoilt nature.
22. The ancient theatre of Orange
Orange is home to one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in Europe. This exceptional monument, built in the 1st century AD, is impressive for its size and remarkable state of preservation. The stage wall, 37 metres high and 103 metres long, was described by Louis XIV as “the most beautiful wall in his kingdom”, and offers perfect acoustics. The Chorégies d’Orange, a prestigious opera festival, offers the chance to relive the emotion of ancient shows in this grandiose setting. The Arch of Triumph completes this discovery of Roman heritage.
23. Mercantour National Park
The Mercantour National Park, on the borders of Alpes-Maritimes and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, protects exceptional mountain landscapes. This nature reserve is home to remarkable flora and fauna, including endemic species such as the wolf, the ibex and the golden eagle. The Vallée des Merveilles, with its 40,000 prehistoric rock engravings, is a unique archaeological site in Europe. High altitude lakes, peaks over 3,000 metres high and authentic villages such as Tende and Saorge offer a thousand facets to discover.
24. Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a hilltop village in the hinterland of Nice, epitomises the Provencal art of living. This fortified medieval town, with its perfectly preserved ramparts, has been attracting artists and celebrities since the 1920s. Art galleries, artists’ studios and the Maeght Foundation, one of Europe’s finest modern art museums, make this village a cultural mecca. The cobbled streets, ancient fountains and panoramic views over the Mediterranean create a unique atmosphere, immortalised by many painters and writers.
25. Toulon and Mount Faron
Toulon, the prefecture of the Var department and a major French military port, has a surprisingly well-preserved heritage and an exceptional location. The old town, tastefully renovated, is home to the Cours Lafayette market, one of the finest in Provence. Mont Faron, accessible by cable car, offers splendid panoramic views over the harbour, one of the most beautiful in the world, and the islands of Hyères. The Musée National de la Marine and the memorial to the Provence landings complete this historic and maritime discovery.
26. Grasse and the perfumes of Provence
Grasse, the world capital of perfume, has been perpetuating a unique olfactory tradition for three centuries. This town, nestling in the foothills of the Préalpes d’Azur, benefits from an exceptional microclimate that favours the cultivation of perfume flowers. The historic perfume factories (Fragonard, Molinard, Galimard) open their doors to visitors to discover the secrets of perfume creation. The fields of roses, jasmine and lavender that surround the town, the traditional distilleries and the Musée International de la Parfumerie complete this exceptional sensory experience.
In conclusion, the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region offers exceptional diversity, making it one of the most complete destinations in the world. From heavenly beaches to Alpine peaks, from hilltop villages steeped in history to awe-inspiring natural sites, each territory tells its own unique story. This land of light, immortalised by the greatest artists, continues to fascinate with its art of living, its refined gastronomy and its unforgettable landscapes. Whether you’re a lover of culture, nature, relaxation or adventure, the PACA region will win you over and leave you with lasting memories. For an in-depth exploration of these marvels, don’t hesitate to follow the Navaway audio tours available in the region’s main towns.
FAQ
When is the best time to visit the PACA region?
The best time to visit Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur depends on your preferences. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer ideal weather and fewer crowds. Summer allows you to enjoy the beaches, but the temperatures can be high. For the lavender fields, choose mid-June to mid-July.
How many days does it take to visit the PACA region?
To discover the main sites in the PACA region, allow at least 10 to 15 days. One week is enough to visit either the Côte d’Azur or inland Provence. For in-depth discovery, including hiking and relaxation, allow 3 weeks.
What are the most beautiful villages in the PACA region?
The most beautiful villages in the PACA region include Gordes, Les Baux-de-Provence, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Roussillon, Cassis, Bormes-les-Mimosas, Seillans and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Each has its own unique character and preserved heritage.
Getting around the PACA region
The car remains the most practical way of exploring the PACA region, particularly for access to hilltop villages and natural sites. Trains provide good services to the major cities (Nice, Marseille, Cannes). Regular bus services connect the main destinations. The Navaway audio-guided walking tours of the towns are ideal.
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