The term South of France is usually used to describe the southern stretch of the countrys coastline that runs between Spain and Italy, and the rural inland areas that include Provence and the Lubron. With its warm climate, fertile landscape and developed coastline, it is one of the most regularly-visited parts of Europe.
Where can I stay?
Unsurprisingly, for somewhere as popular as the South of France, there is no shortage of hotels, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts and camp sites. For a true taste of the area though, stay in one of our recommended boutique hotels. Small and intimate, they are a home from home and turn a basic holiday into a luxury retreat. All of these hotels offer well-designed and contemporary rooms and the service is discreet and impeccable. Good food usually goes hand-in-hand with the cool rooms and public areas - by choosing one of these hotels youll be treating yourself to a memorable stay in the South of France.
What can I see?
The South of France is too big an area to be fully explored in a single holiday, which is why many people return year after year. Some of Frances most expensive resorts lie on the south coast, including St. Tropez and Cannes, and where better to watch the yachts and fashions of the rich and famous? The area is famous for its coastline, sailing and water sports and for the cities that lie near it: Nice, Marseilles and Montpelier for example. Inland, Provence is well-known for its rolling landscapes, stretches of vineyards and swathes of wild flowers. With no shortage of historic buildings, local markets and museums to explore, the South of France has something for everyone.
How do I get around?
If youre planning on exploring the South of France, you should hire a car. The French, like most European countries, drive on the right hand side of the road and the roads are largely well-maintained, although many are toll-controlled and you will have to pay at marked toll stations to use the main road network. If you are planning on staying mostly in one place and just visiting major cities or tourist areas, then opt for the train system, operated by SNCF.
Train To South Of France
The South of France has long been a favoured destination for holidaymakers; the warm Mediterranean sun combined with the fine cuisine has acted as a magnet for tourists. Flying down to the region takes the bulk out of the travelling while the use of a hire car will allow visitors get the most out of this magical stretch of coast.
The south of France is often viewed as an extremely expensive place to holiday; this is a misconception as by the use of car hire services and staying in cheaper hotels the region can be done on a budget.
This province of France is dotted with quintessentially French villages and larger cities that are vibrant and energetic. Marseille is the third largest city in France after Paris and the use of a hire car makes seeing it all easy. The sun beats down upon the city streets so make sure your hire car has air conditioning; you will need it.
This is fundamentally a cultural city with many theatres and art galleries, the artistic heritage is clear, artists such as Renoir spent a lot of time in the city. The old port area is beautiful and hides its industrial history well while the lapping of the deep blue Mediterranean Sea is a constant pleasure.
Jump in your hire car and take a short tour along the coast to Arles. This city is one of the most historical in France and was originally founded by the Greeks around the sixth century BC. The Romans then took the city over and made their mark in terms of architecture and access to the sea; the latter being a canal connecting the city to the Mediterranean Sea.
It was often a headquarter for Roman emperors on military campaigns and subsequently possessed a triumphal arch, a roman circus and theatre, as well as an impressive arena that still stands. Furthermore the medieval period saw Holy Roman Emperor Fredrick Barbarossa's coronation in the city in 1178.
Touring the Cote d'Azur in your hire car you will most likely wish to visit Monaco although some consider it as separate from France it is, in reality a French region. Famed as the playground of the rich and famous it has long been dependent upon tourism for income.
The many spectacular casinos will have gamblers in heaven while the numerous luxury yachts in the harbour of Mont Carlo illustrate just how rich some holidaymakers are. If a fan of motor racing it is a must see destination, the road race track is open for the majority of the year allowing drivers to take their hire car around the famous hairpins.
Be sure to take your hire car to Nice if on the French Riviera, this city is truly magical and combines a beach resort with one of the most culturally rich cities in France. The city itself is filled with squares like most Mediterranean cities which act as a focal point for community entertainment or just to sit and watch the world go by.
The 'Place Garibaldi' has outstanding architecture and history and is named after the Italian revolutionary Giusseppe Garibaldi who was born in the city. It gives some inclination of the Italian heritage of the city; only being annexed by France in 1860.
A car hire holiday in the south of France is an intensely rewarding experience. The idyllic beaches and warm sun will entrance sun worshippers while those interested in culture will be fascinated by the strong Roman influence. This tour can be done on a budget with enough research and the relaxed way of life will ensure you come back from your trip rejuvenated.
Both Chic Retreats & Thomas Pretty are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Chic Retreats has sinced written about articles on various topics from Travel and Leisure, African Travel and Travel and Leisure. Chic Retreats is a collection of cool, smart hotels with under 30 rooms and an eye for detail and design. Visit the website by clicking on . Chic Retreats's top article generates over 135000 views. to your Favourites.
Thomas Pretty has sinced written about articles on various topics from Formula One, Debts Loans and Interior Design. Travel expert Thomas Pretty has visited the French Riviera extensively and uses Budget's services frequently. To find out more p. Thomas Pretty's top article generates over 1500000 views. to your Favourites.
