The ten best villages to visit in the South of France

One of the best parts of your holiday in the South of France is visiting authentic French villages. Wander through the narrow streets, pick up some ingredients for dinner at the local market, or settle down on a cosy terrace in the village square amongst the locals. Soak up the quintessentially French atmosphere; it really feels like a holiday! This is a lovely way to spend the day if you don’t want to do too much and just want to relax. After your visit, head back to your holiday home in France and relax by the pool for the rest of the day.

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Below you’ll find an overview of the ten best villages in the South of France. Get some inspiration for your holiday. Which villages will you visit?

1. Gordes: a hilltop village in Provence

Gordes is perhaps the most impressive hilltop village in Provence. The honey-coloured houses seem to cling to the rock face and together form a spectacular sight. Stroll through the narrow streets, discover hidden vistas and enjoy the view over the Luberon. Tip: visit this village early in the morning or at the end of the day. The village takes on an almost magical atmosphere, particularly at sunrise and sunset.

2. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie: famous for its turquoise waters

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, lies on the edge of the famous Gorges du Verdon, a village surrounded by steep limestone cliffs. The distinctive star suspended high between the rock faces gives the village a fairy-tale quality. Thanks to its location close to the clear blue Lac de Sainte-Croix, this is a perfect destination for lovers of nature and culture.

3. Saint-Paul-de-Vence: in the footsteps of Picasso

Saint-Paul-de-Vence has been enchanting visitors for generations. Within the old town walls, you’ll find a maze of cobbled streets, charming squares and countless art galleries. Artists such as Chagall and Picasso found inspiration here. Today, the village still exudes the same creative and elegant atmosphere, making it a delight to wander around.

4. Roussillon: the village of ochre colours

Roussillon immediately stands out from other Provençal villages thanks to its distinctive colours. The houses are built with ochre-coloured stones ranging from pale yellow to deep red. Stroll through the village and marvel at the different colours of the façades, which somehow all complement one another. The surrounding landscape completes the experience.

5. Lourmarin: a village full of life

Lourmarin combines the charm of a traditional village with a surprisingly lively atmosphere. Cosy terraces, charming streets and a magnificent Renaissance castle create a relaxed ambience. The village attracts artists, wine lovers and bon vivants seeking the authentic Provence. In summer, enjoy street musicians in the village’s various squares.

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6. Les Baux-de-Provence: stroll through an ancient fortress

Perched high above the Alpilles lies Les Baux-de-Provence, one of the most spectacular historic villages in the south of France. The ruins of the old fortress are a reminder of a rich past, whilst the surrounding area offers views over olive groves and limestone hills. A stroll through this village, with fewer than 300 inhabitants, feels like stepping back in time to the Middle Ages. If you’re holidaying in Provence, a visit to this village is an absolute must.

7. Èze: breathtaking views

Èze is situated between Nice and Monaco and is one of the most impressive villages on the Côte d’Azur. The winding streets lead ever higher to exotic gardens and viewpoints overlooking the sea. From the top, you can look out over the azure-blue coastline, a panorama that ranks among the most beautiful in the south of France.

8. Cotignac: impressive rock faces

Cotignac lies at the foot of a huge limestone cliff in which homes and storage areas were once carved out. The village has a friendly, relaxed atmosphere with shaded squares, fountains and cosy cafés. Here, Provençal life still seems to flow at a leisurely pace.

9. Tourtour: village in sky

It’s no coincidence that Tourtour is known as the ‘village in the sky’. From the central square, you can look out over rolling hills, forests and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see. The combination of tranquillity, authentic architecture and stunning views makes this a hidden gem of the Var.

10. Ménerbes: a village to fall in love with

Ménerbes is situated on a long, narrow ridge and offers stunning views over the surrounding valley. The village has managed to retain its authentic character, with stone-built houses, narrow streets and peaceful squares. Anyone strolling around here will immediately understand why so many writers and artists fell in love with this region.

Other charming villages in the South of France

Just outside the top ten, the villages of Bonnieux, Seillans, Goult, Villefranche-sur-Mer and Biot also deserve a place on your list. Each of these villages has its own unique character and showcases a different side of the South of France, from colourful seaside resorts to tranquil Provençal hilltop villages.

Which villages will you add to your to-do list during your holiday in Provence? Read the page about holiday homes in Provence and book your holiday so you’re close to the best villages in the South of France.

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