South of France Holidays

Holidays to the South of France have a reputation for being more than a little on the glitzy side. Think multi-millionaires fanning themselves on luxury yachts at St Tropez Harbour, the chilled martinis and high-stakes poker of Monaco’s Monte Carlo, and, of course, the Hollywood stars who descend on Cannes every year for the famous film festival. But there are plenty of cultural treasures to unearth, too, as well as memorable places that don’t tend to make the headlines of your average showbiz magazine.

Firstly, there’s Nice. The iconic capital of the French Riviera comes with a glorious mix of gorgeous beaches and generous helpings of old-town charm. Taking a stroll down Promenade des Anglais is a must, closely followed by a climb up to the top of castle hill for panoramic views over the city and the glittering Mediterranean Sea. For a slightly more bohemian feel, make your way to Marseille – once crowned the European Capital of Culture, it boasts a vibrant restaurant scene that’s the toast of foodies around the world.

Fancy something a bit more under the radar? Montpellier’s packed full of understated charm thanks to its cobbled streets, historical buildings, and architecture that can be traced back to the Renaissance period. And if you’re hungry for more history, head to Toulouse – also known as La Ville Rose – and walk along the Canal du Midi, the ancient waterway that connects the Mediterranean and Atlantic Oceans.

So, whether you’re looking to join the jet set on one of the South of France’s star-studded beaches, or prefer the historical allure of a mediaeval castle, there really is something for everyone in this most famous of holiday destinations.