Things to do in Provence - Alpes - Cote d'Azur

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Provence - Alpes - Cote d'Azur

Provence - Alpes - Cote d'Azur travel guide

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Top places to visit

1. Old Port of Marseille

A few hours in Marseille’s Vieux Port precinct reveal the cultural and historic hub of the city: a lively promenade flanked by cafés, restaurants and centuries of Mediterranean history. Sandwiched between the old town and the grand Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica, Vieux Port is hard to miss and most visitors to Marseille will pass through the area often. Learn about the local history as you discover some of the city’s most popular attractions.

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Eat fresh local produce, gaze across the city to the sea and learn about the local heritage in the historic heart of Marseille, one of France’s oldest harbours.

2. Promenade des Anglais

The Promenade Des Anglais is a lively walkway that runs along Nice’s azure coastline. The three-mile (five-kilometer) stretch of pavement is lined with blue and white umbrellas, pebbled beaches and blue sea on one side. Cafés, restaurants and up-market hotels line the other side, separated by a busy road.

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Stroll the promenade day or night for views across the Bay of Angels, and access to Nice’s best beaches.

3. Monte Carlo Formula 1 Track

Watch from the sidelines as professional drivers race around the Monte Carlo Formula One Track, the route that some call the world’s most difficult grand prix. The twisting streets of Monaco are tricky for the drivers, but undeniably thrilling for the viewers. Visit when the Grand Prix is not running and follow the course through town to see some of the principality’s most recognizable sights.

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Every year, these winding city streets host the annual Monaco Grand Prix, said to be one of the toughest races in the Formula One calendar.

4. Casino Monte Carlo

Admire the Belle Époque grandeur of Casino Monte-Carlo during a morning tour through its marbled halls. Spend an evening playing at one of its many gambling tables. The elegant venue and smartly dressed patrons make this a popular destination for people looking for a gambling experience of the highest class. The famous casino attracts more than gamblers; it’s also popular among lovers of the arts who come to see ballet, opera and classical music in the Salle Garnier concert hall.

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Take a trip to the glamorous heart of Monaco, where you can try your luck with games or simply explore the palatial landmark.

5. Port of Toulon

The Port of Toulon is the principal gateway to the city for those traveling by sea. The ferry port is also a departure point for trips to the island of Corsica. With an attractive promenade and great scenery, the Port of Toulon is a pleasant spot for a stroll.

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Stroll around this attractive port from where you can catch a ferry to the landscape and cities of the French Mediterranean island of Corsica.

6. Place Massena

Place Massena is the main square in Nice. The large plaza lies between the Old and New Towns, and is lined with shops and restaurants. It sits at a crossroads of several main boulevards, including the grand Avenue Jean Médecin. Locals flock here on their way to school and work. Stop for a coffee at one of the cafés dotted around the edge of the square and take in the action. The tramway runs through the center of the plaza, but otherwise it’s pedestrian only.

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Nice’s main square offers opportunities for shopping, delightful cafés dotted around the edge and some of the best people-watching in the city.

7. Grand Port Maritime de Marseille

Explore the waterfront in Marseille with a trip to Grand Port Maritime de Marseille. Stroll along the seaside or visit the shops in the area.

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Popular places to visit in Provence - Alpes - Cote d'Azur

Old Port of Marseille

Eat fresh local produce, gaze across the city to the sea and learn about the local heritage in the historic heart of Marseille, one of France’s oldest harbours.

Promenade des Anglais

Stroll the promenade day or night for views across the Bay of Angels, and access to Nice’s best beaches.

Monte Carlo Formula 1 Track

Every year, these winding city streets host the annual Monaco Grand Prix, said to be one of the toughest races in the Formula One calendar.

Casino Monte Carlo

Take a trip to the glamorous heart of Monaco, where you can try your luck with games or simply explore the palatial landmark.

Port of Toulon

Stroll around this attractive port from where you can catch a ferry to the landscape and cities of the French Mediterranean island of Corsica.

Place Massena

Nice’s main square offers opportunities for shopping, delightful cafés dotted around the edge and some of the best people-watching in the city.

Grand Port Maritime de Marseille

Explore the waterfront in Marseille with a trip to Grand Port Maritime de Marseille. Stroll along the seaside or visit the shops in the area.

Palais des Papes

Built to house and protect France’s 14th-century popes, one of Europe’s largest Gothic palaces dominates Avignon’s skyline and cultural life.

Areas of Provence - Alpes - Cote d'Azur

Nice City Centre

4.5/5Wonderful!(154 area reviews)

Known for its stunning beaches and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Nice City Centre. Check out top attractions like Promenade des Anglais and Place Massena, and jump on the metro at Massena Tramway Station or Jean Medecin Tramway Station to see more of the city.

Cannes City Centre

4.5/5Wonderful!(147 area reviews)

The stunning beaches and popular shops are just a few highlights of Cannes City Centre. Make a stop by Promenade de la Croisette or Le Croisette Casino Barriere de Cannes while you're exploring the area.

Old Town showing a small town or village, street scenes and heritage architecture

Old Town Nice

5/5Exceptional!(83 area reviews)

Food markets, tiny streets and packed cafés make up Nice’s picturesque old town.

Palais des Papes featuring heritage elements and heritage architecture

Avignon City Centre

4.5/5Wonderful!(47 area reviews)

River views, historical sites and museums are some highlights of Avignon City Centre. Make a stop by Palais des Papes or Avignon City Hall while you're exploring.

Centre Ville-Gare

4.5/5Wonderful!(554 area reviews)

Known for its stunning beaches and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Centre Ville-Gare. Check out top attractions like Promenade des Anglais and Place Massena, and jump on the metro at Thiers Tramway Station or Jean Medecin Tramway Station to see more of the city.

Juan-les-Pins

4.5/5Wonderful!(24 area reviews)

Juan-les-Pins is a destination visitors seek out for its beaches, abundant dining options and seaside views. You might want to check out attractions like Juan-les-Pins Beach or Juan les Pins Palais des Congres while you're exploring the neighbourhood.