When it comes to dreamy destinations in the South of France, the French Riviera often steals the limelight with its glamorous cities like Nice, Cannes, and St. Tropez. However, tucked away from the glitz ‘n’ glam and all the crowds, lie lesser-known areas – just waiting to be discovered! In this article, we plan to provide you with some amazing, lesser-known locations on the French Riviera, where you can explore hidden treats, all offering a unique vacation experience, leaving you gagging for more.
From charming villages to serene coastal retreats, each destination possesses its own distinct allure, oozing with French charm and pazazz. Before we began with our comprehensive list, allow us to first recommend one of the most important things you will need for any trip: airport transportation.
If you are arriving in the French Riviera via airplane, you will likely be landing at Nice Airport, the most popular airport in the region. To book a reliable, affordable airport transfer, head to AtoB airport taxi service website (https://atobtransfer.com/france/nice-airport-taxi/).
They offer a unique service, which boasts a wide range of vehicles, as well as numerous add-ons, which allow you to personalize your ride, to fit your exact travel needs. You can include child seats, additional stops, extra waiting time, or even select a language you would prefer to speak with your driver in. Whatever it is, AtoB airport transfer can handle it.
Now, let’s proceed to the fascinating hidden spots on the French Riviera.
Collioure
Hidden away in the Pyrénées-Orientales department, Collioure is a gorgeous coastal village that exudes an undeniable French charm, even if it is located near the Spanish border. This pretty little town boasts a rich history, as well as a truly stunning landscape. With its colorful Catalan-style houses, narrow cobbled streets, and a medieval castle overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Collioure is an artist’s paradise.
Stroll along the harbor, visit art galleries, and indulge in delectable seafood cuisine, all while enjoying stunning sunsets at the Chapelle Saint-Vincent. Don’t miss the chance to explore the royal castle, Château Royal de Collioure as well, which offers panoramic views of the town and the sparkling sea. An airport transfer is your finest way to get to this gorgeous location.
Cassis
Tucked away between Marseille and Toulon, Cassis is a hidden gem that is guaranteed to enchant visitors with its distinct natural beauty. This charming little fishing village is famous for its striking calanques, dramatic limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear turquoise-blue waters. Embark on a boat tour to witness the stunning Calanques National Park, which encompasses a series of stunning fjord-like inlets.
The town itself boasts colorful Provençal houses, a lively harbor, as well as a buzzing weekly market. Sample the local white wine, stroll along the charming streets, and bask in the Mediterranean sun at one of the picturesque beaches. Don’t forget to book AtoB airport taxi, as this will ensure a relaxed trip.
Uzès
Situated in the Languedoc-Roussillon region, Uzès is a small town with an age-old historical heritage. As the first Duchy of France, Uzès is adorned with beautifully preserved architecture from eons ago, these including the magnificent Uzès Cathedral and the elegant Fenestrelle Tower. The town’s medieval streets are lined with quaint little shops, art galleries, and outdoor cafes.
Don’t miss the vibrant Saturday market, where you can savor local delicacies and purchase handmade crafts after your airport transfer. Uzès also serves as an ideal base for exploring the nearby Pont du Gard, an impressive Roman aqueduct that has also been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur région of southern France, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a hilltop village that has captivated artists, writers, and musicians for centuries. Encircled by fortified walls, this medieval banger offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Wander through narrow, winding streets, and discover exhibitions, boutiques, and charming cafes for your daily cafe au lait.
The Fondation Maeght, a renowned contemporary art museum, is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. Throw yourself head-first into the village’s artistic ambiance, visit the grave of painter Marc Chagall, and relish in the serene atmosphere that has inspired countless masterpieces. Another masterpiece of course being a promptly booked Nice airport taxi cab, that’s for sure.
Menton
Finding itself nestled away between the French and Italian Rivieras, Menton is a hidden treasure that lies on the doorstep of the Principality of Monaco. Known as the “Pearl of France,” this sun-drenched town is famous for its colorful gardens, elegant Belle Époque architecture, and its annual Lemon Festival.
Visit the enchanting gardens of Serre de la Madone and Jardin exotique Val Rahmeh, which are simply bursting at the seams with exotic flora. Chow down on the town’s culinary delights, including the renowned Menton lemons, and unwind on the sandy beaches overlooking the azure Mediterranean Sea. All of this after having successfully arrived with an AtoB airport transfer.
While the French Riviera showcases glitz and glamor in its absolute excess, exploring the lesser-known areas of the South of France unveils to you an entire new world of beauty, enchantment and cultural richness. From the colorful village of Collioure to the artistic haven of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, each destination holds its own allure, offering visitors an opportunity to escape the crowds and experience a unique vacation.
So, veer off the path countless other tourists take, and embrace the charm of these lesser-known areas, and go on a journey that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. The South of France’s best-kept secrets await your arrival, as does the reliable Nice airport transfer that will get you there.