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This prosperous region in the very southeastern region of France, bordering with Italy, is blessed with a stunning and often opulent riviera and magnificent alpine scenery to the north which makes it extremely popular with foreign and domestic tourists alike.
Aix-en-Provence is an idyllic town of hot springs and ornate fountains that give the town a constant summer feel. The narrow streets in the centre are perfect for a stroll among the 17th century architecture and host of busy brasseries, while the Saturday flower market is not to be missed.
Nearby Marseille is the capital of the region and a sprawling city of Muslim quarters and bustling markets with its quaint old port and vertical cliffs that drop into the sea, known locally as calanques, or fjords.
The very different and more exclusive St Tropez is a well-known haven for the rich and famous with its idyllic marina lined with luxury yachts. The beaches south of here are set in little coves including some exclusive mini resorts in their own right with restaurants close to the shoreline.
Nice is a much larger resort on the French Riviera that lies close to the Italian border. The city offers a number of intriguing architectural highlights including a Russian Orthodox cathedral and is a well-established centre for evening entertainment with its many bars and nightclubs.
Close by, Cannes remains an institution in the film world and equally, if not more exclusive than both Nice and St Tropez with its classy bars and beachside casino frequented by movie stars from across the globe.
Avignon, the most historic town in the Provence region, makes a welcome respite from the glamour of the Riviera with its stunning ancient architecture and bridge over the Rhône. Visitors can also view the impressive Papal Palace, scene of the very exclusive annual theatre festival and the International Congress Centre which holds various events year-round.
Around the Alps, Les Baux de Provence, an ancient settlement in the hills, and the Roman town of Orange are among the many daytrip destinations within the region.
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