If you’re looking for some inspiration for your next trip to France, we’ve got you covered. With the help of some other travel writers, we’ve compiled the ultimate list of France’s prettiest small towns and villages.

A visit to any of these small towns in France is sure to impress! So get out of the city and off the beaten path to discover some of the country’s rich history, most charming medieval architecture and breath-taking countryside views.

Whether you’re planning a big France road trip or just a short getaway, these stunning small towns in France are the perfect addition to any holiday and are certain to leave you with a lasting impression.

Strolling the pretty streets of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

20 Most Beautiful Small Towns in France

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Claimed to be one of France’s most beautiful villages, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is one that you won’t want to miss! This typical Provence style town is rich in history and full of spectacular views. It dates back to the 5th century when monks first occupied the area and built a monastery.

The town is perched along the side of two limestone cliffs and lies at the western entrance to the Gorges du Verdon. You will find the stunning turquoise coloured Sainte-Croix Lake just south of Moustiers. It won’t take you long to see why this place is considered one of the most beautiful small towns in France!

A impressive view along the hike to the chapel

Best Things to Do in Moustiers

• Town Centre – Take a wander through the charming, narrow streets and little squares around the village, photo opportunities lie at every corner. Explore the boutiques and cute little shops selling lavender sachets and lovely hand-made ceramics, which the town is well known for.
• Notre-Dame-de-Beauvoir – A short but steep 20 minute hike will take you to this 12th century chapel which is built into the cliffs above the town. There isn’t much to see inside the church but the hike will reward you with the most epic views over the village rooftops, valley, and lake. Along this hike you will also see the famous gold star which hangs between the two limestone cliffs, it’s is said to have hung there in various forms since the 13th century.
• Les Gorges-Du-Verdon – A 10 minute drive from Moustiers will take you to the mouth of the Gorge and Sainte-Croix Lake. From the Pont du Galetas, you’ll find the best view of the striking turquoise water surrounded by the majestic limestone canyon. From here, you can hire a kayak or small electric boat to peacefully explore the gorge/lake and take in your surroundings. Plan your visit during off-season and have the entire gorge to yourself!

Gorges du Verdon

Roussillon

This vibrant, ochre coloured village is truly an incredible sight. Surrounded by sweeping valleys and lush countryside, this small French town is famous for its red cliffs and ochre quarries. It lies in one of the biggest ochre deposits in the world – hence the brightly coloured, red and orange buildings.

A visit to Roussillion is easy to include on your France itinerary if you’re planning to stop in either Moustiers or Gordes. It’s conveniently located near both of these lovely towns.

The picturesque village of Roussillon

Highlights of Roussillon

• Ochre Trail – Take a walk along the Ochre Trail where you will follow a path laid out through the red and yellow cliffs. For €2.50 you will have the choice of a shorter or longer walk. The longer walk will take about an hour but it’s well worth it as the rock formations and colours are so impressive!
• Roussillon Town Center – Strolling through the narrow alleys of the town, you can admire the naturally pigmented buildings – ochre has been used for centuries in this village. With its red buildings against a blue sky backdrop, this place is absolutely magical and makes for some great photo opportunities.
• Visit an Art Gallery – The beauty of Roussillon and surrounding countryside has been inspiring artists for centuries. Make sure to pop into one of the town’s art galleries or museums for a look into Roussillon’s fascinating past. Visit the Ôkhra – Écomusée De L’ocre to learn about the history and importance of ochre use in the region.

→ Read More: 5 Amazing Day Trips from Paris ←

Gordes

Gordes is certainly the most scenic of all the hilltop villages in Provence, which also makes it the one of most popular. Built into the side of a hill and surrounded by the sprawling Luberon Valley, the town’s striking appearance has earned its title as the most well-known, beautiful small town in France.

Getting lost in the maze of narrow cobblestone streets and alleys is the perfect adventure to have in Gordes. A dreamy scene awaits you around each corner. Along your explorations you’ll stumble upon lovely traditional French bakeries, cafes, restaurants and plenty of lookouts offering breathtaking views over the valley below.

Due to its popularity and growth in tourism numbers over the years, it’s wise to plan your visit to Gordes around the busy summer months. The little streets tend to fill up quickly during the height of tourist season. Try visiting in the off-season months of spring (April/May) or in the fall (September/October) for a quieter and more enjoyable experience.

A postcard perfect view can be found around every corner in Gordes

Things You Must See in Gordes

• Farmer’s Market – Check out the farmer’s market on Tuesday morning. Stock up on fresh produce, sample some delicious olives and tapenade, and browse the many stalls selling trinkets and jewellery. Oh and don’t forget about all the cheese and wine! There’s just something about brightly coloured market stalls that light up those ancient, beige streets.
• Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque – A 10 minute drive from Gordes will take you to this lovely old abbey that was founded by monks of the 12th century. In the summer months, rows of vibrant lavender fields grow in front of the abbey making it quite the impressive sight and absolutely worth a visit!
• Gordes Town Viewpoint – Head over to the best Gordes town viewpoint first thing in the morning to catch the breathtaking sight of the entire village bathing in that perfect morning sunlight. From here, you will be able to capture the best angle of the town and snap the perfect shot to remember your special time in Gordes.

The lovely village of Gordes as seen from the town viewpoint

Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque

Carcassonne

The perfectly preserved medieval city of Carcasonne is like a direct portal to the past. Immediately transport to a bygone era as you walk over the draw bridge, through the stone archway and into the cobblestone town centre. It’s clear to see why this beautiful small town attracts over four millions tourists each year.

Carcassonne is classified as a UNESCO heritage site and has a distinct fairy tale appearance with its spiky turrets and battlements. The entire town and its fortifications were once left in ruins but received a complete restoration in the 19th century by the famous French architect, Eugène Viollet-le-Duc. Although the historic accuracy of his work may not be 100%, the town’s medieval charm is sure to steal your heart!

Top Tips for Visiting Carcassonne

• Chateau Comtal – For €9.50 per adult you can spend a few hours exploring the ins and outs of the perfectly restored 12th century castle. The ticket includes access to the ramparts which you can explore for as long as you wish to. This is by far the highlight of the entire experience as the views alone are worth the entire price of the ticket.
• Old Town Center– The pretty streets of Carcassonne are lined with well preserved, beautiful medieval architecture. It’s easy to spend hours just walking around taking it all in. Make sure to take a stroll around the town at sunset and during the evening. Watching the sky light up over this ancient town is truly an unforgettable experience!
• Le Pont Vieux – Head over to the 14th century pedestrian bridge for an awesome view of the medieval walled city. This view is especially magical when it’s all lit up at night.

Evening explorations around Carcassonne

A vibrant sunset lights up the sky over the medieval town of Carcassonne

Rocamadour

The ancient village of Rocamadour clings dramatically to a cliff face and is nestled within a beautiful green canyon in the Dordogne Valley. The first sight of Rocamadour will take your breath away. The town is a sacred place of worship and is well-known for its famous shrine which is said to provide healing powers. This has made it a popular pilgrimage destination since the 12th century.

A series of religious buildings hang from the side of the limestone cliff attracting pilgrims and worshipers for over 1000 years. To this day, Rocamadour is still an important pilgrimage destination but in recent years it has become even more popular with tourism, seeing over one million visitors each year!

Even if you are not religious, this enchanting little village absolutely deserves a spot on your France bucket list. The spectacular setting of Rocamadour offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of day-to-day life. So why not stay for a while to soak up the town’s fascinating history and take in the picturesque countryside views.

Rocamadour – the prettiest village of them all!

Best Things To See in Rocamadour

• Best Rocamadour View Point – To catch the best view of the village, head to the l’Hospitalet area which is a 10 minute walk from Rocamadour town center. Grab a drink while sitting on a patio at one of the restaurants by the viewpoint and take it all in. Click here for exact location of the viewpoint, where the photo above was taken from.
• Old Town – From the centre of the old town, you will find the beginning of the staircase called the Grand Escalier which will lead you upward through all 8 of the sacred buildings. There are 216 stone steps in total and during the middle ages, pilgrims climbed up the entire staircase on their knees!
• Rocamadour Palace – If you still have energy left, continue up the rest of the stairs which will lead you to the palace at the top of the cliff. For €2 you can enter the palace grounds where you’ll find an incredible panoramic viewpoint that looks out over the valley and town below. The palace itself is not open to tourists but the view alone is worth it.

Archway entrance to Rocamadour town center

Étretat

-By Elisa from France Bucket List 

White Cliffs in Etretat, Normandy

Etretat is a pretty small town located on France’s Alabaster Coast, in Normandy. This seaside town with typical Norman architecture, a sea promenade, and a small beach is world-known for its impressive chalky cliffs, the object of many Impressionist paintings. Painters like Claude Monet capture Etretat’s beauty in some of his masterworks.

Etretat is ideal for a day trip from Le Havre or Honfleur or a relaxing weekend getaway. Those who decide to spend one night in Etetat will be rewarded with the impressive cliff views without the day crowds.

Best Things to See and Do in Etretat

• Catch a view – Climb up to Notre Dame de la Garde church for the best views. The view of the cliffs from the beach is outstanding, but it gets very crowded with day-trippers during the day. Climb up to Notre Dame de la Garde church for an even more impressive view from above.
• Learn about the Oiseau Blanc – Behind the church, there’s a memorial and museum dedicated to the Oiseau Blang, the plane that made the first attempt to cross the Atlantic Ocean on May 8, 1927. Etretat’s inhabitants were the last people to see the Oiseau Blanc before it disappeared into the mist.
• Visit the Etretat Gardens – These gardens are a beautiful blend of nature – contemporary art and a lovely place for a stroll in a relaxing atmosphere.

Ribeauville

-By Bec from Wyld Family Travel​

The gorgeous town of Ribeauville, photo by Wyld Family Travel

Ribeauville is one of the small picturesque French villages that lie in the Alsace wedged between the Rhine River and the Vosges Mountains. Ribeauville has a population of just under 5,000 people and is highly popular with travellers exploring the Alsace. Located just 16 kilometres from Colmar and an easy day trip for Strasbourg.

The town is surrounded by fields of vineyards and is an important part of the Alsace Wine Route. The main street oozes old-world charm with restaurants, bakeries, cellar doors and medieval cobblestones. At Christmas time the town holds a very popular Christmas market in December.

Highlights of Ribeauville

• Taste the local wine – You should definitely try the local wine from the Ribeauville Wine Co-Op. It is the oldest wine co-op in France.
• See a castle – On the hill directly behind the town, you will find Castle Saint-Ulrich, Castle Girsberg and Haut-Ribeaupierre. There is a popular walking trail from the centre of town that takes in the historical sites.
• Stay for a while – If you want to experience Ribeauville like a local, rent an apartment stay a few nights, head off the main streets and find some local establishments such as Gorman Drinks where the locals drink and eat. A visit to Ribeauville is a must.

Bonnieux

-By Nadine from Le Long Weekend 

The lovely village of Bonnieux, photo by Le Long Weekend

Located in the lower Luberon, Bonnieux sits overlooking the agrarian landscapes of this stunning part of Provence. A true ‘chocolate box’ village, the blue shuttered houses are interspersed with cypress trees, ivy-covered terraces and stone walls.

At the top of the village, the 12th-century church steeple is an iconic sight, and if you wander up the stone staircase to find it, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views – which are even more remarkable in the summertime when a purple patchwork of lavender fields will spread out before you.

A petit village, there are a handful of cafe terraces to enjoy coffee or lunch al fresco (some with amazing views), and a range of intimate boutiques and art galleries. Take your time to wander through the maze of streets, under arched tunnels and beneath the terracotta rooftops.

Top Tips for Visiting Bonnieux

• Farmer’s markets – Don’t miss the weekly farmer’s market on Friday mornings, or the annual potter’s market which takes place at Easter.
• Bakery Museum – Take a peek inside the bakery museum which demonstrates the traditional bread making methods of the region.
• Foret des Cedres – Discover the nearby Foret des Cedres which is an enchanting place for a walk, and the perfect spot to stop for a picnic.

Beynac-et-Cazenac

-By Erica from Tripscholars 

A picturesque lane in Beynac, photo by Tripscholars

Beynac-et-Cazenac seems to effortlessly hold the distinction of ‘Les Plus Beaux Villages de France’. Its well-preserved castle summits the stunningly picturesque medieval village. While at the base, the dreamy Dordogne River meanders around the town. Find more information and inspiration about planning the perfect trip to the Dordogne here.

Best things to do in Beynac-et-Cazenac

• Visit the Château de Beynac – The castle is perched atop a cliff overlooking the village, with commanding views of the Dordogne River and surrounding region. The oldest parts of the castle date from the 12th century. It was an important location in the 100 Years’ War since it looks across at Château de Castelnaud. There is easy parking next to the entrance.
• Explore the village – If you are in good health and have solid walking shoes, walk the steep cobblestone pathways up to the castle. This is a fascinating walk through history and worth the climb. Stop in at the shops and restaurants nestled into the lanes along the way. You can also drive from the castle parking lot to the public parking lot along the river. You can then stroll the flatter main road in town.
• Kayak the Dordogne – For about 25 euro, you can enjoy one of the most idyllic afternoons imaginable. Rent a kayak or canoe in town and they will shuttle you up the river. You can then paddle along the gently flowing Dordogne with breath-taking views of castles and some of the most enchanting villages in France. Stop at your leisure to explore, eat, or swim.

Riquewihr

-By Ophelie from Limitless Secrets

The pretty town of Riquewihr, photo by Limitless Secrets

Riquewihr easily makes the list as one of the most beautiful small towns in France. This pretty village is located in the Alsace region of north-eastern France, not far from Germany’s border. Riquewihr is a walled town known for its amazing medieval architecture and world-class wines. The town could not be in a more scenic location, set on a hill surrounded by picturesque vineyards and mountains.

The Old Town is incredibly charming and gives off a dreamy fairy-tale vibe with its quaint cobbled streets and colourful half-timbered houses. Disney was actually inspired by Riquewihr when it came to creating the setting of “Beauty and the Beast”. Riquewihr is particularly worth visiting during winter for the Christmas markets. The town really comes to life during this time of the year and becomes even more magical!

The Best Things to do in Riquewihr

• Explore the Old Town – Start by simply wandering the streets of the Old Town, admiring the charming half-timbered houses and stopping to take a look at the town’s 16th century fortifications.
• Visit a museum – If you want to know more about the history of Riquewihr and surrounding area, don’t miss out on a visit to the Musée du Dolder. This informative museum will give you a good insight into the town’s fascinating past.
• Taste the local cuisine – You can’t visit Riquewihr without trying some of the village’s famous cuisine. The Alsatian gastronomy is known for being delicious! Some local foods to try are ‘Bretzels’ or ‘Flammekueche’ which are savoury dishes and don’t miss out on ‘Kugelhopf’ for desert.

Gassin

-By Renee from Dream Plan Experience

The tiny village of Gassin, photo by Dream Plan Experience

Escape to the beautiful village of Gassin, close to the popular beach destination of Saint Tropez. This tiny village is perched high up on a rock, only a few kilometres from the sea. It offers the most incredible coastline views of the Gulf de St. Tropez in one direction and mountain views in the other. It’s no wonder it is known as Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, or one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France.

Highlights of Gassin

• Historical landmarks – Gassin became a fortified village at the end of the 15^th century. Some of the significant landmarks include chapels from the 11^th and 16^th centuries, an 18^th century church bell, and a 16^th century Town Hall. It also has the oldest art gallery in the area and botanical garden featuring plants native to Provence.
• Pedestrian-only streets – Wander and get lost in the quiet, scenic, winding pedestrian-only streets. Admire the ancient houses, all brimming with delightful flowers, are a kaleidoscope of pretty pastel colours. Seek out the Androuno street as it holds the record for having the smallest street in the world measuring at only 29 centimetres at its narrowest point.
• Beautiful views – sitting at an altitude of 200 metres, Gassin offers the most magnificent views of the coastline of the Gulf of St. Tropez, including the towns of La Croix, Valmer, Grimaud, St. Maxime and Les Issambres. In the other direction, its views of Iles D’Or over to the Mauers mountains and all the way to the snowy peaks of the Alps. It’s the best spot for sunrise and sunset watching.

Villefranche-sur-mer

-By Emma from Emma Jane Explores

The beautiful seaside town of Villefranche-sur-mer, photo by Emma Jane Explores

The sleepy seaside town of Villefranche-sur-mer is one of the French Riviera’s hidden treasures. Nestled in between Nice and Monaco on the Cote d’Azur, Villefranche-sur-mer is the perfect relaxing town to have a beach day or to explore the gorgeous pastel-coloured old town.

Some Highlights You Shouldn’t Miss

• Find the best view – Undoubtedly, the best views in Villefranche-sur-mer come from walking up to the walls of the ancient Citadel perched on the headland, which looks back over the waterfront town as well as out into the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea. There are also galleries in this area as well as a lovely garden, perfect for a picnic.
• Explore the old town – The most enjoyable thing to do in Villefranche-sur-mer has to be strolling through one of France’s prettiest old towns, featuring cobblestoned streets, narrow laneways and coloured buildings with quaint window shutters and wrought iron balconies. Wander around for a while and then stop for a long lunch, complete with wine from the Provence region and featuring some local seafood. Moules Marinieres are always a good choice here!
• Hit the beach – Finally, spend the afternoon relaxing on the sandy Villefranche-sur-mer beach, soaking up sunlight and taking a dip in the sparkling waters belonging to this little jewel in France’s crown.

Issigeac

-By Kylie from Visiting Dordogne 

The picturesque village of Issigeac, photo by Visiting Dordogne

Issigeac is a gorgeous medieval village dating back to the 13th century, located in the Dordogne region of France. The streets are filled with beautiful timber-framed buildings, charming cafes and restaurants all overlooked by the imposing stone Church of Saint Félicien. There are plenty of things to do in Issigeac so it’s well worth setting aside enough time to wander through this gem of the South-West.

Best things to do in Issigeac

• Visit the Sunday market – Issigeac has a thriving Sunday morning market that attracts visitors from around the region. It runs year-round and has hundreds of stallholders lining the streets, many specialising in gourmet food of the region including confit du canard, walnuts, chevre (goat cheese) and wine from the region.
• Find the famous Mushroom House – The Mushroom House is an Issigeac icon, a fabulous timber-framed building that’s literally shaped like a mushroom! It was built this way to allow horses and carts to pass underneath through the narrow streets. Today it houses a beautiful art gallery and artisan pottery.
• Explore the Bishop’s Castle – Constructed in 1660, this huge stone building at the entrance to the town was built to house the Bishops of Sarlat when the papal palace was located in Avignon.  Be sure to visit the office de tourisme located in the cellar, where you can marvel at the arched foundations and find out more about the town.

Saint-Émilion

-By Victoria from Guide Your Travel

A view over Saint-Emilion, photo by Guide Your Travel

Saint-Émilion is a beautiful little wine village located close to the city of Bordeaux in France. With more than 800 wineries to choose from in the area, this is the perfect place to come for wine-lovers and those who want to learn more about the ancient process of producing wine.

Saint-Émilion is home to some of the best wines in the world and known for its incredible variation of wine blends. If you’re a wine expert this is an absolute must-visit but even if you’re new to the process of wine production you’ll love this incredible little town.

Discover the Highlights of Saint-Émilion

• Explore the town – There is plenty to see and do such as admiring the ancient architecture that dates back to 56 BC. Definitely stop by the historic churches and the old town of Saint-Émilion where you can shop amazing wines and try some traditional snacks and dishes. This is also the perfect spot for lunch as you admire the incredible view.
• Tour the wineries– Of course, a tour of the nearby wineries is an absolute must-do. Take the little train that is available for tourists to see some of the best ones and even get a free wine tasting along the way. You’ll bee amazed by the beautiful vineyards and incredible maze of wine cellars that lays hidden under the streets of Saint-Émilion.

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

-By Ally from Ally Travels 

Lovely architecture of Saint-Remy-de-Provence

The beautiful village of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a true gem. It can be found about 30 minutes from Avignon. The village has had many famous residents including Nostradamus and Vincent van Gogh. There are plenty of lavender and sunflower fields to explore nearby. Despite being a bit off the beaten path, this village is filled with culture and history. This charming little spot is the perfect place to relax in France for a long weekend.

Things to See in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

• Glanum – Just 1 km outside St. Remy sits the ancient city of Glanum, built in the 6th century B.C. The remains still there were built around 27 B.C. during Emperor Agustus’ reign and are fascinating to see. Don’t miss the Roman mausoleum and the oldest triumphal arch in France, located right next to Glanum.
• The Saint Paul Monastery – Van Gogh famously stayed in The Saint Paul Monastery, a mental asylum that can be toured today. The tour shows off his old room, plus features a small museum. He painted over 150 well-known works of art here! There are also plaques around the village that showcase the works of art that were created during his time in the city. Each plaque gives a bit of history, along with the image.
• Visit the Marche – Every Wednesday the streets of the city fill with merchants selling fresh cheeses, bouquets of lavender, and other homemade goods. The market runs from 7 am until 1 pm. Plan to shop in the morning to avoid the large crowds that come from all over to shop here.

Èze

-By Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple 

The scenic village of Èze, photo by Country Hopping Couple

Èze is a medieval hilltop village located between Nice and Monaco, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Located only 30 minutes away, this picturesque village is the perfect choice if you are looking for a day trip from Nice.

Snuggled between the top French Riviera cities like Cannes, Antibes and Nice, Visiting Èze gives you a very different taste of the French Rivera. You can take public transport to reach Èze. Buses that connect Nice and Monaco stop at Èze Village.

There are also train connections, but the trains stop near the beach and it is a strenuous uphill walk to reach Èze Village from the train station. Alternatively, you can also drive. But duly note that it does get really difficult to find parking during the busy tourist months. As a compact village, there are a few things to do in Èze Village that one shouldn’t miss.

Highlights of Èze

• Jardin Botanique d’Èze – This is the most popular attraction in Èze. This beautiful three tier botanic garden is located on top of the Èze Village. The garden houses a good collection of cactus, succulents and exotic plants, and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean coast.
• Fragonard Perfume Factory – Located close to the centre of village is the popular Fragonard Perfume Factory. Inside, you can take a tour and learn the process of how the perfumes are made from the scratch to packaging.
• Èze Sur Mer Beach – Visiting this lovely beach located next to the train station is a must if you are planning a trip to Èze during the summer months.

Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

-By Alya & Campbell from Stingy Nomads 

The charming town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is a charming town in the south-west of France close to the border with Spain. The town is located in a picturesque valley at the foot of the Pyrenees mountains. For centuries St. Jean has been a gateway for European pilgrims on the way to Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

One of the most popular modern Christian pilgrimage routes the French Camino de Santiago starts in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. Every year thousands of pilgrims from all over the world arrive here to start their 700 km journey across Northern Spain. Besides pilgrims, many tourists visit Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port as a day trip from Biarritz, it’s about a 1-hour drive.

In the peak Camino season between June and September, the town gets very busy. If you don’t like crowds it’s better to visit St. Jean off-season in April-May or October when the weather is still nice and there are fewer tourists.

Things to do in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

• Hike to a Viewpoint – For outdoor lovers hiking one of the trails around the town or over the mountain pass to get some stunning views of the Pyrenees and the surrounding area is a great thing to do. The walk to the top of the pass is very demanding; it’s advised to start early in the morning to complete the ascent before it gets too hot.
• Discover the Old Town – Explore St. Jean on foot; walk on the massive medieval walls surrounding the town, go up to the Citadel to get the best views of the area, visit the Gothic church of Notre-Dame-du-Bout-du-Pont, get lost in the labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets and alleys.
• Stop at a Cafe – Enjoy a cup of coffee or hot chocolate with a delicious freshly baked croissant or pastry on the terrace of one of the lovely local cafes.

Cassis

-By Jo from Frugal First Class Travel 

Traditional houses line the harbour of Cassis, France

Cassis is an excellent day trip from Marseille or Aix-en-Provence whether you are driving or travelling by train. It’s an easy 30 min trip by train from Marseille. The little train station is a 3km downhill walk from the main harbour area. It’s a pleasant walk along a tree lined avenue through olive groves and vineyards before reaching the town.

If you like French white wine, search out the local Cassis Appellation Origin Controllée wines.  With just twelve vineyards it is one of the smallest AOC regions in France.

Best Things to do in Cassis

• Explore the harbour and old town – Cassis is a traditional Mediterranean village, where colourful fishing boats bob gaily on the harbour.  Heading in from the harbour front I enjoyed a walk around the back streets of the town with brightly coloured, shuttered buildings, quiet squares and tiny hole in the wall cafes and restaurants. When I visited, I found it easy to avoid getting lost despite the winding, narrow streets and laneways- the harbour is down the bottom of the hill, so if you are heading up hill, you are moving further away from the harbour and vice versa.
• Eat lunch down at the harbour – A great place to stop for lunch is at ‘Restaurant Gilbert’ overlooking the harbour. It is very popular with locals, so on the weekends and in summer you should aim to book a table. The restaurant features a largely seafood menu on a fixed price basis. It is a great place to try the local Cassis wine if you are interested. Not surprisingly it goes excellently with the local seafood.
• Take a cruise around the Calanque d’en Vau – Take in the spectacular scenery of these unique limestone formations on a boat tour. There are multiple tour operators who use cruisers similar in style to the fishing boats for short tours around the pretty bays.

Menton

-By Ucman from Brown Boy Travels 

The colourful seaside town of Menton

Perched on a hillside, Menton is a very beautiful small town in southern France, not far from the French Riviera and Monaco. Menton is truly one of the country’s best kept secrets, offering the very best of southern France. The colourful town is set along the shores of the sparkling Mediterranean sea, enjoys a warm climate year round, and is well known for its delicious French cuisine with Italian influences.

Getting to Menton can be easily done on a day trip if you’re staying in Nice but it also makes an excellent option as a holiday destination on its own. It’s smaller than Nice but bigger than Èze making it ideal for those seeking that small village charm with more of a city vibe.

Best Things to do in Menton

• Historic town centre – When you first arrive in Menton, you’ll want to familiarize yourself by taking a stroll through the town’s pretty narrow streets. Menton is built into a hillside making the streets quite steep in areas, so make sure to pace yourself as you climb upward and be prepared by wearing comfortable walking shoes. You’ll be rewarded with breath-taking views over the town and sea as you make your way up the hill.
• Watch the sunset – The sunsets in Menton are absolutely beautiful. Grab yourself a glass of wine, relax and take in the dance of colours that light up the sky as the sun slowly dips below the horizon.
• Enjoy the local cuisine – Your visit to Menton isn’t complete without enjoying a dinner at one of the many local restaurants feasting on the incredible traditional cuisine of fresh seafood and vegetables dishes, delicious deserts, and locally produced wines.

Chedigny

-By Karen from Wear I Wandered 

Beautiful Chedigny of the Loire Valley

A visit to the town of Chedigny in the Loire Valley of France can make you feel as if you have stepped onto the set of a fairy tale film. Chedigny is so beautiful that it hardly seems real.

Back in 1998 the mayor of Chedigny decided that their town should plant 700 rose bushes in order to better represent the Loire Valley which is known as the Garden of France. The idea caught on with the townspeople and they all began to plant roses around their homes.

Today there are so many roses that no one knows exactly how many have been planted. Chedigny is notable for being the only village in France which has been certified with the label of a “Jardin Remarquable” or remarkable garden!

Highlights of Chedigny

• Visit during spring – This is a gorgeous place year round but if you go in the spring when the roses are blooming, the colours, sights and scents of the gardens are overwhelming in the best possible way. You may want to schedule your visit in order to attend the Chedigny rose festival which occurs in May and attracts guests from all over.
• Where to eat – There is a very nice restaurant in town called Les Clos Aux Roses which serves delicious food made with fresh ingredients often taken straight from their own garden.
• Take a stroll through the village – You will want to stop by the charming old church in the town. But most of all, Chedigny is the perfect place in France to simply wander and look and to “stop and smell the roses.”

The most charming little bakery in Rocamadour

We hope you are feeling inspired and ready to pack your bags to start ticking some of these stunning small towns in France off your bucket list! Make sure to check out our epic 10 day France road trip itinerary that covers some of these beautiful towns and so many more highlights of southern France.

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The best way to see southern France is by renting a car so that you can easily travel around at your own pace, stopping wherever and whenever you please. I’ve designed this epic 10 day France road trip itinerary to pass through the very best sights and stop in the most beautiful small towns and villages along the way.

So buckle up and get ready to taste all the delicious French cheeses, olives and wines, inhale the scent of fresh lavender, wander through the most charming medieval villages and drive through the most incredible landscapes you’ve ever seen. I promise this France road trip will not disappoint!

France Road Trip Overview

• Nice – 1 night
• Moustiers-Sainte-Marie – 1 night
• Valensole Lavender fields
• Roussillon
• Gordes – 2 nights
• Château de Tarascon
• Pont du Gard
• Nîmes – 2 nights
• Carcassonne – 2 nights
• Cahors (option to spend 1 night)
• Rocamadour – 2 nights

The spectacular Gorges du Verdon, seen from the Pont du Galetas viewpoint

Recommended stops

Day One – Depart Nice early + drive 3 hrs to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie taking the scenic mountain road that runs through the Gorges du Verdon. See the sights of Moustiers in the afternoon and evening.

Night One – Spend one night in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.

Day Two – Wake up early and begin the 2 hour drive toward Gordes with a stop at the Valensole lavender fields for some photos. Stop once more in the village of Roussillon + take a walk around the Ochre Trail before continuing the drive to Gordes.

Nights Two & Three – Spend two nights in the village of Gordes.

Day Three – Spend a full day seeing the highlights of Gordes and surrounding countryside.

Day Four – Depart Gordes in the morning + drive 50 min to Château de Tarascon. Spend 1 hour at the castle then drive 25 mins to the ancient Roman aqueduct Pont du Gard. Spend a few hours at the aqueduct and museum before driving a further 30 mins to Nîmes.

A perfect Carcassonne sunset

Night Four & Five – Spend two nights in Nîmes.

Day Five – Enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Nîmes, visiting the amazing Roman monuments.

Day Six –Depart Nîmes and drive 2.5 hours to Carcassonne. Spend the afternoon and evening exploring Carcassonne.

Nights Six & Seven – Spend two nights in Carcassonne.

Day Seven – Visit all of Carcassonne’s highlights.

Day Eight – Drive 2.5 hours to the town of Cahors (option to spend 1 night here to break up the drive), spend a few hours exploring the town before driving 1 hour to the village of Rocamadour.

Nights Eight & Nine – Spend two nights in Rocamadour.

Day Nine – See the highlights of Rocamadour on the final day of the road trip.

Day Ten – Drive to Toulouse airport + fly home

Total Driving Time

13-14 hours, give or take depending on traffic

Longest Stretch of Driving

3.5 hours – Day 8, Carcassonne to Rocamadour with a stop in Cahors to break it up

Total Kilometres / Miles Covered

970 kilometres / 600 miles

France Road Trip Highlights

• The drive through the majestic Gorges du Verdon will take your breath away
• Picturesque villages of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Gordes and Roussillon are so beautiful they will leave a lasting memory
• The extremely well preserved medieval towns of Carcassonne and Rocamadour are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites to tick off
• Taste the delicious Malbec wine in the pretty town of Cahors
• Breathtakingly beautiful scenery will be seen along your drives including lavender & sunflower fields, vineyards, turquoise lakes, pretty castles and so much more!
• Discover the fascinating Roman history and well preserved 2000+ year old monuments in the lovely town of Nîmes

The magical village of Gordes

How Long Will I Need?

We completed this France road trip in 10 days, this is the minimum time you should allow to follow it however it would be very easy to extend this itinerary to 2 weeks if you prefer a slower pace. There are many other towns, cities and attractions to visit along the way that you could easily stretch it out if you are flexible.

We flew to Nice from England, but if you are arriving after a long haul flight you should allow for a few days to recover at the beginning of your trip. Spending a few extra nights in Nice would be a good idea.

Pretty scenes around Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Best Time to Visit the South of France

We did this road trip in late September/early October and the weather was mostly sunny and around 10-22°C. We had a few days of rain and the temperatures got cooler as we travelled north. For the most part, we found this to be a great time to travel as there were minimal crowds.

The summer months of June/July/August are definitely the most popular time to road trip the south of France but bear in mind that there will be a significant amount of people in each town and at every attraction. If you’re hoping to see the lavender fields, the best time is mid June – mid July.

Another great option would be to visit during the spring months of April, May or early June as the temperatures begin to rise and just before the summer crowds arrive. The south of France typically sees a lot of sun year round so if you’re not a fan of crowds, plan your trip for spring or autumn.

The breathtaking cliffside village of Rocamadour

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The Ultimate France Road Trip Itinerary – Beautiful Lavender Fields, Magical Cliffside Villages & Spectacular Landscapes

Chateau de Tarascon

Where to Rent a Car in Nice

Nice is a beautiful city but we were keen to get on the road so we decided to spend one night in Nice after flying in and then set off early the next morning. We recommend booking your car rental through this search tool as it’s hassle free and always has plenty of providers to choose from with reasonable prices.

This road trip starts in Nice and ends in Toulouse so keep in mind that there will be an extra fee for returning the car in a different location.

One can never buy too many lavender sachets!

Driving from Nice to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie via the Gorges du Verdon

If you type “Nice to Moustiers” into Google maps, it will come up with the most direct route which takes just over 2 hours and passes through Cannes. The route we decided to take is a longer and slower drive (3 hours), but the extra time is 100% worth it!

We chose to take a route that passes through pretty villages, scenic mountain roads and best of all it runs straight through the spectacular Gorges du Verdon, also known as the Grand Canyon of Europe. The views along this route are absolutely breathtaking and possibly the best of the entire France road trip!

As you make your way toward the Gorges du Verdon, you’ll pass lovely little villages like Gréolières

Below are the exact driving directions for the route we followed including all stops along the way. You’ll notice that the roads are very twisty and mountainous. If you’re a bit apprehensive about driving along the edge of a gorge with a sheer drop on one side, you may want to try a different route.

I was even a little nervous and had to close my eyes a few times (luckily I wasn’t driving) but I can assure you that the views are not worth missing out on!

We made our first stop in the mountain village of Gréolières to stretch our legs. You can easily pull over and take a walk up to the old church above the town for some nice views or grab a coffee in the town and continue driving. The next stop was in the small town of Comps-sur-Artuby where we had some lunch in a little cafe before starting the drive through the Gorges du Verdon.

The windy road that will take you through the gorge is called the D71 and it begins in Comps-sur-Artuby. As you make your way through the gorge there will undoubtedly be many spots you’d like to pull over for photos but as the roads are very narrow, there is a lack of space to stop most of the time.

The Balcon de la Mescla viewpoint – photos don’t do it justice!

Best Gorges du Verdon Viewpoints

Since you can’t pull over for every single view, I’ve saved you the hassle and listed the most epic Gorges du Verdon viewpoints in order so that you don’t miss the very best. You’ll also notice them marked on the map above.

• Balcon de la Mescla – An incredible viewing platform just as you enter the dramatic landscape of the gorge, there are no words to describe the view you will find there! There is plenty of room to leave your car at the entrance of this viewpoint.
• Verdon Gorge Viewpoint – On the edge of the windy road you’ll find this spectacular panoramic viewpoint at one of the highest points of the drive. There’s only a small area to pull over here so if it’s already full of other cars, you may be out of luck.

The jaw dropping Verdon Gorge viewpoint

• View of Aiguines Castle – As you descend from the gorge toward the town of Aiguines, you’ll turn a corner and immediately notice the most beautiful scene of Aiguines Castle and vineyard with the shimmering Lac de Sainte Croix as the backdrop. This is one of my favorite photos of the road trip! There’s a little pullout area just passed the view on your left where you can leave the car and walk back up the side of the road to take some photos.
• Pont du Galetas – Another absolute must-see view just before you enter the town of Moustiers. Once you cross the Pont du Galetas bridge there’s a car park to pull into on your left. This bridge is where you’ll find the most iconic and jaw dropping beautiful view of the Gorges du Verdon and the turquoise coloured lake!

Aiguines Castle view

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

After you finish driving through the Gorges du Verdon, you’ll likely arrive in Moustiers by the afternoon. You’ll have the rest of the day to explore the town and see the highlights listed below.

Truly one of the prettiest towns in France, Moustiers is nestled in between two limestone cliffs overlooking the valley and lake below. Rich in history and full of small town Provence charm, the beauty of Moustiers doesn’t fail to impress!

The town’s history goes back to the 5th century when monks settled in the village and built a monastery. Over the centuries, Moustiers became known for producing beautiful hand-made ceramics. Pop into the Ceramic Museum in the town center to see over 5 centuries worth of Moustier’s gorgeous ceramics.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Highlights of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Explore the village – Moustiers itself is actually a very small town and can easily be seen in a few hours. Take some time to explore the charming streets and squares of the town center, finding postcard perfect scenes around each corner. Browse the little shops and pick out a souvenir or two to take home. Lavender sachets and hand-made ceramics are the perfect way to remember Moustiers!

Weekly market – If you happen to be visiting the town on a Friday, make sure to check out the market which takes place in the main square. Fresh loaves of bread, juicy olives, goats cheese, jars of tapenade, and olive oils are just a few of the delicious things you can expect to find there. The weekly market is another great place to pick up the perfect souvenir or gift to take home.

Ceramic museum – Admire over 300 beautiful hand-made ceramics that were once known as the very best in the region. The museum is home to over 5 centuries of locally produced antique ceramics. Tickets cost €3 per person.

A beautiful view from the trail to the chapel

Steep drops along the hike

Notre Dame de Beauvoir – Hike up to the 12th century chapel that’s built into the cliffs above the town. The hike to the church is very steep but it’s only 20 minutes and absolutely rewarding. The chapel itself doesn’t have much to offer but it’s the sweeping panoramic views of the valley, lake and rooftops of the town below that make it all worthwhile.

As you hike you’ll notice the iconic gold star that has hung between the two cliffs since the 13th century. There are many legends that explain the reason it came to be there but the true story behind the hanging star remains a mystery.

Lac de Sainte Croix – If you have any time left over while you’re in Moustiers, the pretty turquoise waters of Lac de Sainte Croix is a great place for a swim or to hire a kayak/small boat and explore the gorge.

Strolling the quaint streets of Moustiers

Where to Stay in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

The town center of Moustier doesn’t have many options for parking but having a car makes it easy to stay at one of the many B&Bs in the countryside surrounding the town.

La Ferme du petit Ségriès B&B – We chose to stay at this charming old farm house 5km from Moustiers. We really enjoyed the peaceful rustic vibes and beautiful views that can be seen from the property. There are also some lavender fields nearby to add to the atmosphere. We had a comfortable stay there and loved the delicious fresh breakfast they serve daily.

►Browse more accommodation options around Moustiers◄

Lovely buildings of Moustiers

Valensole Lavender Fields

During the summer months Provence comes to life with dazzling fields of lavender and sunflowers. People travel from all over the world just to stroll through the endless rows of purple flowers and witness the magic of this special time of year in the south of France.

One of the best spots to see the lavender fields in Provence is the Valensole Plateau. This area has a concentration of fields so you have the option to visit many of them if you wish to. The Valensole Plateau is located only 30 minutes from Moustiers and is conveniently en route to the next stop.

It’s not hard to find them as they are located all along the main road as you drive from Moustiers to Rousillon, you’ll see them from the car. Zoom into the map below for a few suggested lavender field stops on your drive. Looking for a sunflower and lavender field together? Click here for exact location.

The best time to see the lavender fields in full bloom? It’s typically during high season from mid June – mid July. So if you’re really keen on seeing them, you’ll need to plan your France road trip for the summer.

Roussillon

This brightly colored village is surrounded by lush countryside and located in one of the largest ochre deposits in the world. It’s no surprise that Roussillon has officially been recognized as one of France’s most beautiful villages, it really is an impressive sight!

For centuries, ochre has been used in the area for things like art, textiles, and adding colour to houses (as you can tell by the orange/red colour of the buildings in the town). In the 18th century, ochre mining around Roussillon was in full swing when there was high demand for the red pigment. Ochre factories were once located around the village, some of which can still be seen today.

The picturesque village of Roussillon

Highlights of Roussillon

Town center – Take some time to stroll through the town’s narrow streets finding plenty of great photo opportunities of the pretty buildings as you go. Stop for lunch in a cafe or pick up an ice cream cone from one of the many ice cream shops.

Ochre Trail – You can’t visit Roussillon without talking a walk through the spectacular Ochre Trail. It’s an easy walking trail that will take you through an ochre quarry. The start of the trail begins near the village and you’ll have the option of taking the shorter path (30 min walk) or the longer route (50 min walk). For only €2.50 per person, this walk is definitely a highlight you shouldn’t miss.

Spend as long as you like visiting Roussillon because the next stop on this epic France road trip is only 15 minutes away. You’ll be spending two nights in Gordes so day two is all about exploring the lavender fields and seeing the sights of Roussillon.

Gordes

When I think of the prettiest fairy tale village I’ve ever seen, Gordes is the first one that comes to mind. Perched on a hilltop and surrounded by the beautiful Luberon Valley, Gordes is one of the most popular and touristy villages in the south of France and it’s not hard to see why.

As you wander through the village, enjoy getting lost in the maze of steep, narrow alleys that extend from the town square, you’ll be sure to stumble on the prettiest corners and best viewpoints. Spectacular views can be seen over the surrounding countryside from various lookouts around the town.

The stunning hilltop village of Gordes

A perfect view lies around every corner in Gordes

Highlights of Gordes

Gordes Castle – It’s hard to miss the 11th century medieval castle that dominates the skyline of Gordes. It sits at the highest point of the town and can be seen from pretty much everywhere.

If you decide to go inside you can’t expect to see much in the way of historical artifacts or background information about the castle. Instead you’ll find an art exhibition on display.

We decided to give the castle a miss because most reviews were negative with people writing that they were disappointed by their visit. Unless you’re interested in art, this castle is best admired from the outside. Also, it’s really beautiful when lit up at night!

Gordes market

Drooling over fresh olives at Gordes market

Gordes market – If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Gordes on a Tuesday, make sure to check out the town market. We were excited to arrive in Gordes just in time for the weekly market and it did not disappoint. Colourful market stalls light up the town’s beige alleys selling everything from clothing, jewellry and lavender to olives, cheeses and tapenade!

Best Gordes viewpoint – To snap the perfect photo of Gordes, head over to the Gordes town viewpoint either in the morning or at sunset to catch this magical town lit up in the best lighting of the day.

Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque – Only a 10 minute drive out of Gordes, this gorgeous old abbey dates back to the 12th century when it was founded by monks. An added bonus to your visit is the stunning rows of lavender growing in the field next to the abbey during the summer months. Fascinating history and beautiful scenery, this is an absolute must-see!

Click here for the abbey’s current opening hours.

Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque

Where to Stay in Gordes

Since you will be spending two nights in Gordes, it’s worth finding a nice place with a pool and some views. There are plenty of beautiful places to stay around Gordes but you need to be quick to book ahead, especially in high season! If you leave it to the last minute, you’ll be stuck with few options as Gordes gets very touristy.

La Borie en Provence

La Borie en Provence – We loved our stay in this B&B just outside of the town center. If you’re craving some down time, their pool with epic valley views is the perfect place to relax and soak up that golden Provence sunshine. They also serve one of the best breakfasts we had on our entire road trip through France.

A huge selection of cheese, fresh bread, fresh fruit and spreads were laid out for us each morning, the coffee was amazing too. I can’t recommend this place enough. During high season, the rooms book out pretty far in advance so it’s best to plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

►Browse more accommodation options in Gordes◄

The perfect French breakfast at La Borie en Provence

Chateâu de Tarascon

Located on the banks of the Rhône River, just 20 minutes south of Avignon is the medieval commune of Tarascon. The town is known for its impressive 15th century castle that sits right on the river’s edge. Chateâu de Tarascon is conveniently along the route to the next stop of the road trip making it the perfect place to break up the drive.

We didn’t actually plan to visit this castle but as we were driving from Gordes to Pont du Gard, we passed by Chateâu de Tarascon and just had to stop to check it out. The castle is massive and extremely well preserved considering its age. It was strategically built on the river that marks the western border of Provence providing defense and protection.

Highlights of Chateâu de Tarascon

When you first enter you’ll cross a bridge over the castle’s moat, which no longer has water. You’ll be given a map with some background history so you can explore at your own pace. The entire castle can be seen in about 1 hour.

Inside the castle there are many rooms, courtyards, and spiral staircases to see. Even though the rooms are not decorated with furniture, it doesn’t fail to impress. In the 18th century Chateâu de Tarascon was actually used as a prison and you’ll be able to see the prisoner’s graffiti on the walls in some of the rooms.

Once you climb to the top of the castle you’ll find a huge terrace with sweeping panoramic views over the river and surrounding countryside. The view alone is worth the ticket price! Directly across the river you can see another fortress, Château de Beaucaire.

What I loved about Chateâu de Tarascon was the lack of people. It was really quiet when we visited and it was nice to be able to explore the entire castle without navigating through crowds of people. We actually had the entire rooftop terrace to ourselves!

Opening Times: 9:30am-12:30, 2pm-5pm, closed on Mondays in the off-season

Click here for more info on opening times and prices

Tickets: €7.50

View from the rooftop terrace of Chateâu de Tarascon

Pont du Gard

As the France road trip continues, you will officially leave Provence behind as you make your way into the Languedoc region to see the ancient Roman aqueduct, Pont du Gard. Crossing over the Gardon River, this masterpiece of Roman engineering was built in the year 50 AD. It’s the highest and best preserved Roman aqueduct to survive in the world!

Pont du Gard was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. It was built to supply water to the Roman city of Nîmes and it spans about 50 km long! Estimations say that it took around 1000 men working over a 5 year period to complete the aqueduct.

Highlights of Pont du Gard

The best part about visiting Pont du Gard is being able to walk across the entire aqueduct. Once you reach the other side, you can visit the Pont du Gard museum which is dedicated to the aqueduct and surrounding area. This museum provides a fascinating insight into Roman life, it really does not disappoint!

Step back over 2,000 years when you visit the elaborate and very well put together museum that covers the bridge’s construction and history. Enjoy seeing life sized reconstructions, virtual tours, and informative clips taking you into the world of ancient Rome.

Before jumping back in the car, make sure to take a walk along the river to get some different perspectives of the aqueduct. Take a seat and soak in the wonder of this awe-inspiring monument that has managed to survive undamaged through the centuries.

Walking across the magnificent Pont du Gard

If you’re hungry for lunch or a snack, there are a number of restaurants and cafes to pick from at the aqueduct.

Opening Times – 9am – 9pm daily

Hours of operation change throughout the year, check the official website for the most current times.

Skip-the-Line-Tickets – €9.50

Entrance to the museum is included in the price. Tickets can be purchased online before visiting, click here for more info. As with most other attractions, the queues here will get unbearably long during high season so it’s much easier to purchase beforehand.

Nîmes

Carrying on with the theme of Roman history, next up on this southern France itinerary is the beautiful city of Nîmes, also known as Nemausus in Roman Times. During the height of the Roman Empire, Nîmes was one of the wealthiest cities in Gaul and emperor Augustus was pretty keen to make that obvious.

Going back to 1st century AD, the city was thriving and money was being thrown into its growth/lavish architecture. This is when all of the spectacular Roman monuments that can still be visited today were constructed.

If you’re a fan of Roman history, the city of Nîmes is on par with Rome in my books. There are very few places left in the world besides Rome with a such an amazing concentration of extremely well preserved Roman monuments like you will find in Nîmes.

Nîmes is a beautiful city and of course there is more to see here than just Roman architecture but since you only have one full day to spend, adding any other attractions would make it feel rushed and not enjoyable. We only visited the highlights listed below and after walking around the city and sightseeing all day in the sun, we were definitely exhausted!

The incredible Nîmes Arena

Highlights of Nîmes

Arena of Nîmes – In the heart of the city, the magnificent Nîmes Arena has stood proud for the passed 2,000 years. It was built only a few years after the Colosseum in Rome and is considered one of the best preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world.

It may be significantly smaller than the Colosseum but it was built to hold around 24,000 people! The arena is still in use today for events, concerts and bull fighting several times per year. Visitors can enter the arena and audio guides are available for self guided tours.

Maison Carrée – This beautiful Roman temple is the only one of its kind left in such an impressive condition with all of its columns still surviving intact. Built under the rule of Augustus, it was once at the center of the forum or public gathering area of Nîmes.

Maison Carrée is only a 5 minute walk from Nîmes Arena. After admiring it from the outside, you can enter the temple to watch a short film about the history of Nemausus.

Jardin de la Fontaine – A stunning 18th century park featuring fountains, ponds, sculptures. The park is huge and very impressive with many details to admire. It was actually built over a sacred Roman spring which is still flowing today. It’s a great place to take a seat and relax.

You’ll pass through this lovely park on your way up to the Tour Magne from the Maison Carrée, see here for walking directions. You’ll also pass the Temple of Diane along the way, a Roman temple that was left in ruins.

Maison Carrée

La Tour Magne – At the highest point of Nîmes, La Tour Magne overlooks the city from a hilltop and offers spectacular city views from the top. It’s one of the last surviving towers from the Roman wall that once encircled Nîmes.

To get to the tower, it’s an 11 minute steep walk up the hill from the Jardin. Once you arrive, you’ll be able to climb the spiral staircase inside to reach the panoramic viewing platform at the top. Don’t worry, the view makes all the walking worth it!

Tickets for Roman attractions – I would recommend buying the €13 pass that gives you access to the 3 most popular Roman monuments: Nîmes Arena + Maison Carrée + La Tour Magne. I suggest that you start your day at the Arena and purchase the combination ticket there.

Click here for more info on ticket prices.

Strolling toward La Tour Magne

Walking tour of Nîmes – Explore the highlights of Nîmes on a 2.5 hour historic walking tour led by an expert local guide. Entrance to the Arena is included in your ticket. Check tour times and availability here.

Where to Stay in Nîmes

You’ll be doing a lot of walking around Nîmes so it’s best to stay somewhere central where you can easily access all of the sights by foot. Keep in mind that you’ll want to find a place that offers parking, most places in Nîmes charge extra for parking.

Appart’City Confort Nimes Arenes – This conveniently located B&B couldn’t be in a better spot. It’s right in the middle of the historic center of Nîmes and only 1 minute walk from the Arena! Some of the rooms even have a view of the Arena.

The rooms are spacious, comfortable and offer free Wi-Fi. A breakfast of fresh fruit, croissants, cheese and bread is served daily and underground parking is available for an extra cost.

►Browse more accommodation options in Nîmes◄

Jardin de la Fontaine

Carcassonne

Day six of this epic south of France road trip itinerary will start off with a 2.5 hr drive to the fortified medieval city of Carcassonne. The old town of Carcassonne is incredibly well preserved, its entire wall and castle are in excellent condition. The town really looks like something from a fairy tale with blue and red spiky turrets, towers and a perfect castle.

The town dates back to the 12th century but it had been destroyed during attacks in the middle ages and left to ruins. In the 19th century, the town’s walls and castle were fully renovated by a famous French architect named Eugène Viollet-le-Duc. He was responsible for major restoration projects of other French castles and cathedrals including the Notre Dame in Paris.

Carcassonne is a true masterpiece, it’s one of the largest fully preserved medieval cities in Europe and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. Since then it’s become very popular with tourism attracting over 3 million people from all over the world each year. If you visit during high season you should be prepared for some very big crowds filling the narrow streets.

Highlights of Carcassonne

Old town – As you enter the town by crossing over the draw bridge and stepping through the stone archway, it really feels as though you’ve been transported to another time. The narrow cobblestone streets and beautiful medieval buildings just add to the town’s charm.

I recommend taking a walk around the town during sunset and also when it gets dark. The towers and walls look absolutely magical when lit up at night. I don’t think we put our camera down the entire time we were there but some of our favourite photos of Carcassonne were shot at sunset/night-time.

The charming streets of Carcassonne

Château Comtal – Once home to a wealthy French family of the 12th century, this impressive medieval castle is one of Carcassonne’s most popular attractions. Inside the castle, you’ll pass through courtyards, a series of rooms featuring historical facts and then access the ramparts. For an extra €3 you can get an audio guide.

Walking the ramparts – Entry to the castle also covers your walk around the town’s walls which is definitely the highlight for most people’s visit to Carcassonne. Walking around the ramparts will give you all kinds of epic views. You’ll get many different perspectives of the castle, town and beautiful countryside that surrounds it.

Château Comtal

Skip-the-line ticket – €9.50

During high season the queue to enter the castle can be extremely long, there was even a queue when we were there in October. I would highly recommend purchasing a skip-the-line ticket online to save yourself some time when you get there.

Click here to buy your ticket for the castle and ramparts.

Le Pont Vieux – Take a walk down to the 14th century pedestrian bridge. From there you’ll get an amazing view of the town, this is also a nice spot to visit at night.

For the best view of Carcassonne, you should also walk over to the new bridge. This angle will give you the perfect shot of the entire walled city and old bridge in the foreground.

View of Carcassonne and Pont Vieux from the new bridge

Where to Stay in Carcassonne

Staying near the old town is definitely the most desirable location in Carcassonne. For this reason, rooms tends to book out months in advance. When we were booking our accommodation, there really weren’t many options left so we ended up staying at the Budget Ibis.

To be honest I had no complaints about our stay, breakfast was good, the room was basic but clean and there is free parking. The only thing it’s lacking is some character and it’s 1 km from the old town which isn’t ideal. That’s why I will recommend somewhere that we wished we could have stayed instead…

La Rapière – Only steps from the medieval town center, this lovely looking place has extremely high ratings on Booking.com. That’s no surprise since city wall views can be seen from the pool, dining terrace and even some of the rooms.

Free parking and breakfast is included in your stay. Based on its popularity, you’d need to book a room asap if you really want to stay there! If it doesn’t work out, there’s always the Budget Ibis…

►Browse more accommodation options in Carcassonne◄

Spectacular views along the ramparts of Carcassonne

Cahors

Cahors is a beautiful town in the Midi-Pyrénées region surrounded by vineyards dating all the way back to the Roman times. It’s located along the route as you drive from Carcassonne to Rocamadour making it the perfect place to take a break, stretch your legs and try some delicious wine! (not too much if you’re driving though…)

There are vineyards literally surrounding Cahors and many of them offer tastings. They also sell their wines at a much cheaper price than buying a bottle at a restaurant or shop. If you’re really into wine tasting and enjoy visiting vineyards, then perhaps spending an extra night in Cahors would be a great idea.

Medieval bridge of Cahors, Pont Valentré

Highlights of Cahors

Pont Valentré – The most iconic landmark of Cahors is the 14th century bridge, often referred to as the most beautiful medieval bridge in France. The bridge was fortified and strategically placed on the Lot River defending the town of Cahors from attacks.

Cahors is located on a peninsula surrounded by the Lot River so it only makes sense that the river would need to be protected. Taking a walk across Pont Valentré is a must when visiting Cahors, it’s also very photogenic (even on an overcast day) as you can see below!

Saint-Étienne Cathedral – The second most popular thing to see in Cahors is the massive 11th century cathedral in the heart of the town’s historic center. The architecture is very impressive and it’s worth taking a look inside to see the stained glass windows, inner courtyard gardens, and lots of intricate detailing.

Pont Valentré

Try the famous Cahors Malbec – The region that surrounds Cahors has been long known for its production of Malbec wine. For the wine connoisseurs out there, you might be thinking “hang on, didn’t Malbec originate in Argentina?” Nope! It was actually Cahors where Malbec grapes were first cultivated in the middle ages.

Malbec happens to be our favourite type of wine so you can imagine just how excited we were to visit Cahors and try it directly from the source. I can tell you, it really did not disappoint. Cahors is also known for its black wine which gets the name because of how dark and rich it is.

Cahors market – A colourful market is open on Wednesday and Sunday mornings year round near the cathedral in the historic town center. You’ll find fresh produce, cheese, olives and all the typical things you can except to see at a French market. It’s worth checking out if you happen to be passing through town on either of those days.

Trying the most delicious Cahors Malbec!

Yum.

Where to stay in Cahors

Hôtel Le Coin des Halles – If you opt to spend the night in Cahors, staying near the historic center is the best spot to base yourself. This little hotel is in prime location directly next to the Cahors market in the old town. Perfect for being able to see the sights of Cahors by foot. Parking is also available here but it comes at an extra cost.

Brit Hotel Cahors – Le France – Another good option with high ratings and only a 10 minute walk from the old town and a 5 minute walk from Pont Valentré. A buffet breakfast is served here each morning and parking is also available for €5 per day.

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Rocamadour

The final stop on this 10-day France road trip itinerary is the jaw droppingly beautiful cliffside village of Rocamadour in the Dordogne Valley. Driving from Cahors to Rocamadour only takes 1 hour and as you approach the village the roads become very twisty.

The village of Rocamadour is famous for its religious buildings that cling dramatically to the face of a cliff. It’s surrounded by a lush green valley which gives it an extremely unique and impressive appearance.

For many centuries Rocamadour has been a popular pilgrimage destination. Inside the religious buildings is a sacred shrine that is said to provide healing powers. In the middle ages, pilgrims from all over Europe made the trek to Rocamadour so that they could experience the healing benefits of the shrine.

Rocamadour – the prettiest village of them all!

Highlights of Rocamadour

Village center – It’s not very big and there is only one street but it’s so pretty and full of history. As you enter the 13th century gate and stroll along the main strip you’ll see ivy covered buildings, walk through medieval stone archways and if you continue all the way to the end, the cutest bakery I have ever laid eyes on.

Grand Escalier – Starting in the village center, this epic set of stairs is what once led pilgrims upward through the series of sacred buildings, some of them even climbed all 216 steps on their knees! The religious buildings and shrine are open to visitors so you’ll be able to go inside the churches and visit the famous shrine of Rocamadour.

*Tip* Remember to wear good shoes when climbing the Grand Escalier as the stairs can be quite steep in places.

Making my way up the Grand Escalier

Lovely views can be seen on the way up

Palace – If you continue walking up the stairs passed all of the sacred buildings, you’ll come to the 14th century palace at the top of the cliff. For €2 per person you can visit the palace grounds to see the breathtaking view of the amazing landscape and town below. You can’t enter the inside of the palace but the view makes it worthwhile.

Rocamadour viewpoint – For the absolute best view of Rocamadour, you should head to the l’Hospitalet viewpoint. This is the awe-inspiring view that everyone needs to see when visiting. As you look out to the village from across the valley, it really makes you wonder how it was even built hundreds of years ago! It’s such a spectacular sight.

Villages around Rocamadour – If you have the time and would like to see some more sights around the area, the Dordogne Valley is full of lovely little medieval villages dotting the countryside around Rocamadour.

These are some of the best:

• Martel
• Carennac
• Loubressac
• Collonges-la-Rouge
• Sarlat-la-Canéda

The prettiest bakery I’ve ever seen

Where to Stay in Rocamadour

The village itself is very small and doesn’t have many accommodation options to offer, not to mention parking anywhere nearby isn’t possible. It’s better to stay just across the valley from Rocamadour in the l’Hospitalet area. There are plenty of restaurants and hotels around there and it’s easy to reach the village by foot in just 10 minutes.

Logis Hôtel Le Belvédère – To mark the end of your road trip through the south of France why not treat yourself and stay somewhere really nice? This hotel is located in what could possibly be the best spot in all of Rocamadour. It’s right next to the viewpoint!

Watch the sun go down over the village from your room, relax by the pool or grab a glass of wine on the terrace overlooking the village, all for a surprisingly reasonable price. Free parking and a delicious breakfast is served daily.

Archway entrance to Rocamadour

Like I’ve said before a few times in this post, you really need to book far in advance to get the place you want in Rocamadour. During high season, the streets are overflowing with tourists and accommodation books out many months in advance. There are only 26 hotels in Rocamadour listed on Booking.com so you should get your room locked in asap!

►Browse more accommodation options in Rocamadour◄

After spending two nights in Rocamadour, on day ten of the France road trip you will make your way to the city of Toulouse to drop the rental car off at the airport and catch your flight home. The drive from Rocamadour to Toulouse is just under 2 hours making it the closest and most convenient city to fly out of.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this road trip itinerary and find it useful when planning your own France road trip. In my opinion the south of France was made for road trips, the landscapes and sights in between the towns are just too beautiful to miss out on if you were to take a train or bus instead.

If you think I’ve missed something important on this south of France itinerary or if you’ve tried this route and really enjoyed it, don’t hesitate to leave me a comment below Happy travels!

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