Explore the best of the South of France itinerary for 7 days. Discover stunning coastlines, charming villages, and delectable cuisines.
Welcome to South France! This region boasts a stunning coastline, charming villages, and exquisite cuisine.
Get ready to explore the region, from the glamorous cities of the French Riviera to the charming hilltop villages of Provence. This journey promises to be a memorable experience.
7-Day Travel Itinerary of South France
South France caters to everyone, whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or an explorer. However, to make the most of your trip, planning your itinerary is crucial. That’s where this guide comes in handy.
I have prepared a comprehensive 7-day itinerary to guide you through South France’s highlights.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Nice
Your South France adventure commences in the picturesque city of Nice. Famous for its lively markets, stunning beaches, and charming old town, Nice is the perfect launchpad for your journey.
Upon arrival, take some time to unwind, then venture out to explore the city.
Begin with a leisurely stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, a magnificent seafront walkway offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Next, visit the old town, known as “Vieux Nice.” Here, you’ll discover narrow winding streets brimming with traditional Provençal shops and markets.
Don’t miss out on local delicacies like socca or pissaladière.
For art fans, a visit to the Musée Matisse or the Musée Marc Chagall is a must. These museums house extensive collections of works by these renowned artists.
To conclude your day, savor a scrumptious meal at one of the city’s many seafood restaurants.
Day 2: Unveiling the French Riviera
Day 2 of your South France itinerary takes you to the glamorous French Riviera. This region, called the French Riviera or Côte d’Azur, is famous for its beautiful coastline, extravagant yachts, and film festivals.
Your first stop is the city of Cannes. Known worldwide for its annual film festival, Cannes is a city of glitz and glamour.
Take a stroll along the Boulevard de la Croisette and enjoy the view of luxury yachts lining the harbor.
Your next destination is Monaco. It’s a small city-state famous for its lavish casinos, beautiful harbor teeming with yachts, and the prestigious Grand Prix race. Visit the Prince’s Palace, the official residence of the Sovereign Prince of Monaco, and the renowned Monte Carlo Casino.
Don’t forget to check out the Oceanographic Museum, home to a variety of marine life. And of course, enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Day 3: A day in Provence
Today, we’re venturing into the heart of South France – Provence. Known for its lavender fields, vineyards, and charming villages, Provence is a region that sums up the quintessential French countryside.
Kickstart your day with a visit to the Luberon Villages. This cluster of villages, nestled amidst rolling hills and lush vineyards, is a sight to behold.
The villages of Gordes, Roussillon, and Bonnieux are particularly noteworthy.
Each village has its own unique charm, from Gordes’ hilltop views to Roussillon’s ochre cliffs.
Next, it’s time for some wine tasting. Visit Provence to experience its renowned rosé wines, but also don’t miss out on its excellent reds and whites.
Visit a nearby vineyard, learn about the wine-making process, and sample some of the best wines from this Provence itinerary.
Here are a few vineyards you might want to consider.
- Domaine de la Citadelle
- Château la Canorgue
- Domaine de Marie
Remember, drinking and driving is not only dangerous but also illegal. Consider hiring a driver or joining a wine tour to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Day 4: Historical journey in Avignon
Day 4 of your South France 7-day itinerary brings you to the historic city of Avignon.
Known for its rich history and well-preserved medieval architecture, Avignon is a must-visit for history buffs.
Your first stop is the Palais des Papes, also known as the Pope’s Palace. It is one of Europe’s largest and most significant medieval Gothic structures.
Once the residence of popes in the 14th century, the palace is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a guided tour to learn about the palace’s history and admire its stunning architecture.
Next, explore the historic city center. Walk around the pretty streets, visit the small shops, and dine at a restaurant serving French cuisine. Don’t forget to try the local specialty, papalines d’Avignon, a delicious chocolate and liqueur confection.
Before you end your day, make sure to visit the Pont d’Avignon, also known as the Pont Saint-Bénézet. Only 4 of the bridge’s 22 arches remain, but it’s still impressive and provides beautiful views of the Rhône River.
Day 5: Adventure in the Verdon Gorge
Welcome to Day 5 of your South France 7-day itinerary. Today, we’re heading to the Verdon Gorge, one of Europe’s most beautiful river canyons.
Known for its turquoise-green water and dramatic cliffs, the Verdon Gorge is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Start your day with a kayak or canoe trip down the gorge. The calm waters of the Verdon River make it a suitable activity for all skill levels.
As you paddle down the river, stunning cliffs and lush vegetation will surround you. It’s an experience to remember!
If you prefer to stay on land, there are numerous hiking trails around the gorge.
The Blanc-Martel Trail is one of the most popular, offering breathtaking views of the gorge and the surrounding landscape.
After your adventure in the gorge, head to the Lake of Sainte-Croix for some relaxation. This man-made lake is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Day 6: Coastal drive and beach Day in Saint-Tropez
Day 6 of your South France 7-day itinerary is all about relaxation.
Today, we’re taking a scenic coastal drive along the Côte d’Azur and spending a day at the beach in Saint-Tropez.
Start your day with a drive along the coastal roads of the Côte d’Azur. This route, known for its stunning sea views and picturesque towns, is one of the most beautiful drives in France.
Be sure to make stops along the way to appreciate the views and capture photos of your France road trip itinerary.
Your destination is Saint-Tropez, a glamorous town known for its sandy beaches, luxury yachts, and vibrant nightlife.
But don’t let its falshy reputation deceive you. St. Tropez also has a charming old town, La Ponche, that’s worth exploring.
Spend the rest of your day at one of Saint-Tropez’s beautiful beaches. On the Mediterranean, you can always expect crystal-clear waters and sunny skies.
You can visit the bustling Pampelonne Beach or a quiet location.
Day 7: Farewell to South France
Welcome to the final day of your South France 7 days itinerary. Today is all about soaking up the last bits of the French Riviera before you bid adieu.
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at your luxury hotel or a local café. Enjoy a croissant or a pain au chocolat with a cup of café au lait, a typical French breakfast.
Next, take a final stroll around Saint-Tropez. Enjoy the local market days, where you can buy souvenirs or local produce. Visit the Citadel of Saint-Tropez, an old fortress with great views of the town and the sea.
In the afternoon, head back to Nice. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have some time to explore more of the city.
Consider visiting the Russian Orthodox Cathedral or the Nice Observatory.
As your South France adventure comes to an end, reflect on the amazing experiences you’ve had over the past week.
You’ve seen the best of South France, from glamorous cities on the French Riviera to charming villages in Provence.
Remember, this is your journey. Feel free to mix and match the itinerary as per your preferences. And don’t forget to check out our Ultimate France Travel Guide for more travel inspiration.
FAQs about 7 days itinerary in the South of France
The best time to visit South France is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists.
The best way to get around in South France is by rental car. You can explore the region at your own pace and visit off-the-beaten-path destinations. However, public transportation options like buses and train stations are also available.
South France is renowned for its Mediterranean cuisine. You should try bouillabaisse (fish stew), ratatouille (vegetable dish), and tapenade (olive spread with capers and anchovies).
Some must-visit places in South France include Nice, Cannes, Saint-Tropez, Provence, and the Verdon Gorge.
You can visit the Palais des Papes and Pont d’Avignon.
The Verdon Gorge is a hub of activities. You can go kayaking or canoeing down the gorge. If you prefer land, there are hiking trails to explore. Lastly, the Lake of Sainte-Croix is perfect for a swim or a sunbathing session.
You can take a scenic drive along the Côte d’Azur. Also, you can spend a day at the beach. The old town, La Ponche, is worth exploring. And don’t forget to visit the local market.
South France is famous for its Mediterranean cuisine. You should try bouillabaisse (fish stew), ratatouille (vegetable dish), and tapenade (olive spread with capers and anchovies).
Provence is renowned for its rosé wines, but it also produces excellent reds and whites. Consider hiring a driver or joining a wine tour to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Yes, you can definitely extend your stay in South France. There are many more places to explore, such as Marseille, Montpellier, and the Languedoc-Roussillon region.
Enjoy 7 days in the South of France
And that concludes our comprehensive South France 7-day itinerary.
Enjoy the best that South France has to offer, from the glamorous cities to charming villages. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.
Remember, this is your journey. Feel free to mix and match the itinerary as per your preferences.
Happy travels!