14 Things To Do In Saint-Paul-de-Vence (Is It Worth It?)

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Europe is a dream destination, steeped in history, dotted with picturesque towns, and brimming with scenic attractions.

But did you know there’s a place in Europe where you can find all these in one spot? Southern France. This region is home to countless beautiful places and if it’s a charming village you’re after, then Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a must-visit.

Regarded as one of the most stunning villages in France, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a gem located on a hill in the French Riviera. This intact medieval village resembles an art museum, complete with miniature art museums scattered throughout. With its winding calade streets, houses draped in vines, and remarkable galleries, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is definitely worth exploring. It’s the perfect spot for a pleasant walk, photography, and immersing oneself in art.

Even though Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a small village, it offers a wealth of experiences and fascinating discoveries. If you need more reasons to visit Saint-Paul-de-Vence, the variety of activities available in the village should help you decide if it’s a place for you. In any case, this post can act as your handbook to the top things to do in Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

Good to know: this article is a comprehensive guide to enjoying Saint-Paul-de-Vence. It includes helpful tips, visitor information, Google Maps location, and everything else you need to make the most of your visit.

What is my impression of the village? Well, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, with its lovely medieval charm and stunning views, could be a great place for special life events.

Think about a wedding proposal, an anniversary party, a honeymoon, or even romantic dates. Picture walking down the world’s most beautiful streets with a loved one, talking about your feelings. Then, imagine sitting by the ramparts, watching the sunset, and discussing your future dreams and plans. Saint-Paul-de-Vence could be the setting for these perfect moments!

But even if you’re traveling alone, Saint-Paul-de-Vence can still be a great destination. Especially if you’re looking to discover new artworks, do some soul searching, or just lose yourself in a life-changing escape.

Given the array of attractions and activities in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, I have no doubt you’ll share my impression for this picturesque village. Now, let’s dive into the details!

1. Stroll in Rue Grande

Indeed, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is akin to a living museum. And there’s no better starting point for your journey through the village than Rue Grande.

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Rue Grande, the main street of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, traverses the center of the village and runs its entire length.

After acquiring your brochures from the tourism office, you can immediately take a stroll down Rue Grande. The street features the Provencal style of cobblestone streets known as ‘calade’, made up of pebbles arranged artistically to form harmonious shapes like flowers and more.

As you stroll down Rue Grande in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, aside from the calades, you’ll be fascinated by the modern art galleries. These galleries are housed within the medieval buildings lining both sides of the street. The buildings and houses have a quaint appearance; some are covered with vines, while others have windows and balconies adorned with flowers.

Looking ahead, it’s as if you’ve stepped back into the 16th and 17th centuries. But a glance to the side brings you back to the present. This incredible shift between “new” and “old” is quite remarkable!

Rue Grande is also where you’ll find most of the shops and boutiques in Saint-Paul-de-Vence. It’s no surprise that even the clothes they sell resemble works of art.

Here’s an important tip: If you’re like me and depend on GPS and Google Maps for directions, you might find them less reliable in Saint-Paul-de-Vence. The village’s quaint, narrow streets, hemmed in by two-story buildings, can interfere with satellite signals, leading to potential misdirection. My advice? Grab a map of Saint-Paul-de-Vence from the tourism office upon arrival. You’ll find it tucked behind Tour A Machicoulis on Rue Grande. Don’t forget to check out the digital brochures at the end of this post!

2. Explore the Place de la Grande Fontaine

After a few minutes of wandering down Rue Grande from the tourism office in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, you’ll stumble upon Place de la Grande Fontaine. Back in the day, it was the busiest part of the medieval village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

Here, you can sit by the fountain and relax for a bit. Listen to the sound of the water flowing from the fountain and the footsteps of people passing by.

Place de la Grande Fontaine serves as a portal to the 17th century in your imagination. Although it has been modified several times, the square’s heritage remains intact.

As you observe the surroundings, you can imagine daily life in Saint-Paul-de-Vence during the Middle Ages. Picture medieval men with buckets, gathering around the fountain to fetch water. You might also envision teenagers leading their donkeys on a leash, giving their pets a drink.

Additionally, in Place de la Grande Fontaine, you’ll find a centuries-old washhouse. Peek inside, and you can almost see washerwomen beating laundry and scrubbing dirty clothes.

Can you imagine yourself doing these tasks? Well, if you were to ask me, I’d say I can’t! It certainly makes us appreciate the conveniences of modern life.

3. See Different Artworks Inside the Ramparts

With its artistic medieval charm, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is indeed a place that inspires many artists to create their own art. This is why many creatives today call Saint-Paul-de-Vence home. A stroll down Rue Grande will provide ample proof of that!

Did you know that there are more than 40 registered art galleries and museums in Saint-Paul-de-Vence? That’s why I think it’s a paradise for art lovers, especially those who appreciate modern art.

The art galleries in Saint-Paul-de-Vence feature a range of genres, from impressionism to expressionism, as well as a variety of sculptures, from exquisite to eccentric. You can find sculptures even while strolling through the village’s quaint streets. In fact, you can view artworks and learn simultaneously in Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

Art studios, run by local artists, offer workshops. I recommend attending a class so that you leave Saint-Paul-de-Vence with a new skill or hobby. What’s great about attending an art workshop is that you’ll get to interact directly with the artists. During a class, you’ll not only hear about the artist’s passion, captivating stories, and art techniques, but you’ll also gain a deeper understanding of the meaning behind artworks and more.

Of the 40+ galleries in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, the three galleries within the medieval village that I like the most are:

1. ART Gallery 31
2.  Di Allure Art Gallery
3. Atelier Kleinberg

Art Gallery 31 hosts a permanent exhibition by Michel Degav, a painter known for his use of vibrant colors. His creations depict strength, dreams, and happiness. They remind me of the person I’ve become, who I am today, and the person I aspire to be in the future. Here’s a video that provides a summary of his work:

Di Allure Art Gallery is another one that I particularly like. This art gallery in Saint-Paul-de-Vence showcases the works of numerous Macedonian artists. In their creations, they strive to introduce fresh ideas and novel ways of conveying messages through art. Their collection includes both paintings and sculptures – truly a must-see! Below is a sample artwork from Di Allure Art Gallery.

Last, but certainly not least, is Atelier Kleinberg. This gallery and workshop houses some of the most unique paintings I’ve encountered in the medieval village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Here, you’ll discover striking paintings that capture human characteristics, expressed through tones and colors in a free and spontaneous manner. Below is a sample artwork from Atelier Kleinberg.

4. View The White Penitent’s Chapel Decorated by Folon

A day is sufficient to explore Saint-Paul-de-Vence. However, if you’re visiting to discover modern artworks and learn about creating art, you’ll definitely need two days or more!

In Saint-Paul-de-Vence, even a chapel’s interior has been transformed into a work of modern art. This chapel, known as the White Penitent’s Chapel, is now a highly rated attraction in Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Below is a glimpse of what you’ll find inside the White Penitent’s Chapel.

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Yes, it’s no longer an ordinary chapel. The White Penitents Chapel now houses the artworks of Jean-Michel Folon.

Jean-Michel Folon, a special figure in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, was a Belgian artist who dedicated his life to this medieval village that inspired him the most. This talented artist completed several artworks during his years in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, and you’ll find them adorning the walls of the White Penitent’s Chapel.

His artworks take various forms, including beautiful mosaics, artful stained-glass windows, and sculptures. Eight of his oil paintings hang on both sides of the White Penitent’s Chapel.

Among the numerous artworks by Jean-Michel Folon inside the White Penitent’s Chapel, the most notable is the 106-square-meter mosaic that covers the walls of the choir. It depicts the walled village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence and the surrounding landscapes. You can see it in the 360-degree image.

I admire Jean-Michel for his philosophy: “Creating something spiritual, trying to understand the deep meaning of a place, is a real joy.” His artworks are a testament to this. This leads me to believe that the White Penitent’s Chapel is an unmissable destination when visiting Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

Would you like to come? The last time I checked the official website of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, the White Penitent’s Chapel was open all year except for November, December 25, and January 1. The gallery welcomes visitors from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm from May to September, and from 10:30 am to 4:00 pm from October to May. There is a 1.5 hour lunch break after 12:30 pm.

The entry fee is a few EUR per adult, and the entire tour lasts 45 minutes. Yes, they do speak English.

5. Enter the Collegiate Church

When we think of artworks, paintings and sculptures are the first things that come to our minds. However, we seldom consider that architecture is also a form of art.

In Saint-Paul-de-Vence, you can visit a church that showcases several architectural styles. This church is known as the Collegiate Church of Saint Paul. Spending a little time here in silence, prayer, or meditation while admiring its design is another activity you can enjoy in the village.

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The Collegiate Church lies at the heart of the village, just beside the Chapel of Folon. If you start from the tourism office, the first left turn along Rue Grande will lead you to the facade of this church.

Upon entering and observing, you’ll likely notice that Saint Paul Collegiate Church manifests three architectural styles: Baroque, Romanesque, and Counter-Reformation. The church’s multiple styles are a result of the lengthy construction period.

Believe it or not, building the church took around 400 years, from the 14th century to the 18th century. The oldest parts of the church – the nave, choir, and four pillars – demonstrate the primitive Romanesque style, which was the original design of the Collegiate Church.

Notice the stuccoes and frescoes? They are excellent examples of artworks dating back to the Counter-Reformation era. However, among all the features of the church, the Chapel of Saint Clement in Baroque style is most notable. It houses some relics that originated from Rome.

While Saint Paul Collegiate Church may not be as grand as the churches in Paris, Reims, Lyon, or Strasbourg, it can be an excellent place to find some quiet in Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

6. See The Remains of Saint-Paul de Vence’s Castle (The Keep or The Dungeon)

Did you know? A castle dominated Saint-Paul-de-Vence in the 13th century. Today, it no longer exists. However, the castle’s keep still remains. Some people refer to the keep as a “dungeon,” while others know it as Mairie or the town hall.

Regardless of its name, the keep is one of the attractions in Saint-Paul-de-Vence that you can easily visit. Located next to the two churches, it’s effortless to go there and discover traces of one of the oldest buildings in Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

If you examine the lower sections of the tower, you’ll find rusticated stones dating back to the 12th century. You might wonder why the people of Saint-Paul-de-Vence would demolish the castle that could protect them during invasions. The reason is religion.

As the population of the medieval city grew, the churches needed to expand to accommodate more people. The land occupied by the castle was reallocated for the church’s expansion. Religion isn’t a bad thing, though. In fact, I believe that people prioritized spirituality over everything else back in the day, much like now, as evidenced by the artworks in Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

7. Explore the Bastioned Wall of Saint-Paul de Vence

Although the castle of Saint-Paul-de-Vence no longer exists, another one of its fortifications still stands. These are Saint-Paul-de-Vence’s medieval walls. For me, the ramparts and bastions of Saint-Paul-de-Vence are unmissable attractions. They serve as the village’s historical landmarks and scenic spots.

Saint-Paul-de-Vence has 4 beautiful vantage spots of its surrounding vistas. Depending on where you’re at, you can see either the mountains or a lovely panorama of the French Riviera’s coastline.

The viewpoints in Saint-Paul-de-Vence’s ramparts are:

1. Bastion Saint-Remy
2. Promenade Des Remparts Ouest
3. Porte de Nice
4. Vue Sur Le Baou de Saint Jeannet

If you start walking down Rue Grande from the tourism office, the first path you’ll find on the right will lead you to Bastion Saint-Remy.

From Bastion Saint-Remi, proceed south on the path beside the ramparts. This is where you can find Promenade Des Remparts Ouest (or West Ramparts Promenade).

If you continue walking further south, you’ll arrive at Porte de Nice. You should find stairs nearby. Climb these stairs. They should lead you to another bastion from where you can see views of the French Prealps limestone mountains and the French Riviera coastline.

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In Google Maps, the bastion near Porte de Nice is labeled Annebault Bastion. Also, from here, you can have an overlooking view of the cemetery of Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

Last is Vue Sur Le Baou de Saint Jeannet, located on the other end of the village (northeast). It is a spot a few steps from Tour de l’Esperon, and you should be able to overlook the parking area from there.

8. Visit the Cemetery

Porte de Nice was the passageway used by Saint-Paul-de-Vence’s residents when heading to the city of Nice in the past. It is located at the southernmost tip of the medieval village.

It may seem that there isn’t much else to see in this area besides sightseeing the rest of the French Riviera from Annebault Bastion. However, there is still one more attraction in this area awaiting you! It is Saint-Paul-de-Vence cemetery, located a few steps away from Porte de Nice.

Wait, what?! Is a cemetery now a tourist attraction? Much like the medieval village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, its cemetery also resembles an open-air museum. Just kidding!

The main attraction is that it is here in Saint-Paul-de-Vence where the renowned artist, Marc Chagall, was laid to rest. Marc Chagall, like Folon, is another artist who lived in Saint-Paul-de-Vence for over a decade. He is famous for his artworks that combine elements of Cubism, Surrealism, and Fauvism. They’re unique and revolutionary, I must say.

To learn more about Marc Chagall, you may read his biography and legacy on britannica.com.

Where is Marc Chagall’s tomb? You should be able to see it beside the large tree to the right just after you enter the cemetery. Marc Chagall’s tomb is sometimes adorned with pebbles placed on top of his grave by his fans (or so I believe).

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9. Discover The Wines of Saint-Paul de Vence

As you stroll along the ramparts of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, part of the vistas you’ll encounter are the vineyards. These are located on the western slopes of the hill where the medieval village stands. And this can only mean one thing: the folks in Saint-Paul-de-Vence are making wines!

If you love wines, wine tasting will probably be one of the reasons why you would visit Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Here are some notable things about wines and enotourism in Saint-Paul-de-Vence:

1. The wine culture of Saint-Paul de Vence has existed for more than two millennia. Locals have been cultivating vines since 600 BC, and without a doubt, they have perfected the art of winemaking.
2. The wines are authentic. An expert in organic and biodynamic winemaking supervises the hand-harvesting of the grapes for both red and white wines. It’s quality at its best!
3. Wine tasting takes place in an exceptional 14th-century cellar that showcases high-quality wines from Saint-Paul de Vence and other regions in France.

I may not be a wine enthusiast, but I can see how they can create a more romantic atmosphere. I’ve previously pointed out that Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a great spot for commemorating special events. The wines crafted in this village play a significant role in this!

By the way, the 14th-century cellar I’m talking about is La Cave de Saint Paul. Here’s how it looks inside La Cave de Saint Paul:

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If you want to explore Saint-Paul-de-Vence and have a wine tasting after that, check out this tour. It includes a wine tasting session in Saint Jeannet winery.

10. Find the Little Gems of Saint-Paul de Vence

Exploring Saint-Paul-de-Vence can be a delightful experience as you may stumble upon unexpected treasures while wandering around the village. These treasures are simple pieces of art that reflect the vibrant and artistic culture of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. They can be found all over the village. You might spot one on the ground, or some might be adorning the walls of charming buildings.

My advice to you is to keep your eyes open as you walk around Saint-Paul-de-Vence because there are indeed little wonders waiting to be discovered.

I must say, having grown up in the Philippines, a place vastly different from France and particularly Saint-Paul-de-Vence, I find these small details fascinating. Yes, we have stunning beaches and natural beauty, but our society doesn’t emphasize and prioritize art like in Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

This is why the things I’m about to show you, though small, truly amaze me. They make me appreciate the residents of Saint-Paul-de-Vence and their dedication to beautifying their “home.”

Did you know there’s another captivating town in northeastern France that rivals the charm of Saint-Paul-de-Vence? It’s so enchanting that a replica was even built in Malaysia. This place is known as Colmar.

11. Capture the Most Picturesque Scenes

Saint-Paul-de-Vence is often seen as an open-air museum, filled with art galleries, hidden treasures, and picturesque scenes that are perfect for photography. It boasts enchanting stairs, arches, tunnels, corners, and winding lanes that seem to have been lifted straight from a storybook.

Are you a travel influencer? Your followers will be captivated by the images of Saint-Paul-de-Vence that you capture and share. Or perhaps you’re just an everyday traveler? Snap some photos and send them to your friends. Add a caption expressing how much you miss them and wish they were there with you when you took the shot. I guarantee it’ll bring a smile to their faces and brighten their day!

Here are just a few of the stunning scenes you’ll discover in Saint-Paul-de-Vence:

Among all the scenic spots in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Maison de Jacques Prévert stands out as the most iconic. This building is nestled in the fork of Rue del L’Allee, just a few steps east of the town hall and churches. The best time to photograph Maison de Jacques Prévert is during the warmer seasons when the flowering vines that drape its facade are in full bloom.

Here’s what Maison de Jacques Prévert looks like:

The beauty of Saint-Paul-de-Vence isn’t confined to the medieval village alone. Beyond the ramparts, you’ll discover captivating views that truly come alive, especially during the golden hour.

Just a five-minute walk from the tourism office, outside the medieval village, you’ll find the auditorium. The roof deck of this auditorium offers a panoramic view of the walled medieval town and is one of the most enchanting spots to watch the sunset.

swipe the 360° image below to see more views

12. Watch People Playing Pétanque

Within the historic walls of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, you have the opportunity to witness and learn about Pétanque, a traditional game from Provence. Locals often gather to play it at Place de Gaulle. This bustling square is home to numerous cafes and shops, allowing you to enjoy a meal while observing the spirited competition of Pétanque.

Pétanque, in essence, is a boules sport where participants aim to throw a ball towards a target. While I’m not entirely sure about the scoring system or how teams secure a win, you can learn how to play Pétanque firsthand in Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

The local tourist information office offers lessons on the game. I recommend giving it a try – not only will you pick up a new skill, but you might also make some new friends. Each lesson lasts an hour and costs just a few euros per person. Children under 12 can join for free. And don’t worry about any language barriers – they offer lessons in English.

You can reserve a lesson by calling these numbers: +33 (0)4 93 32 86 95.

13. Visit Maeght Fondation

In addition to its rich art scene, enchanting charm, and well-preserved medieval architecture, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is also renowned for the Maeght Fondation. This modern art museum houses an impressive collection of 12,000 masterpieces, drawing in over 200,000 visitors annually.

Given that it boasts one of the most extensive collections of 20th-century art in Europe, a visit to the Maeght Fondation is an absolute must when in Saint-Paul-de-Vence! It’s certainly a destination worthy of any bucket list, wouldn’t you agree?

What sets La Fondation Maeght apart is its unique approach to art exhibition. The venue itself is timeless, presenting individual artworks, architecture, and nature as a single, cohesive piece of art. Inside, you’ll find an array of paintings, sculptures, and graphic designs that can be discovered in the garden, courtyards, and terraces – a feast for the eyes.

La Fondation Maeght also houses a library, bookshop, and chapel for visitors to explore. It’s a captivating destination for those looking to indulge their artistic curiosity while enjoying a relaxing time in Saint-Paul de Vence.

La Fondation Maeght welcomes visitors every day from 10 am to 7 pm during the summer months (July to August), and from 10 am to 6 pm for the rest of the year. Last entry is permitted 30 minutes before closing time.

You can learn more about the museum and book your tickets from its official website.

14. Hike outside the ramparts of Saint-Paul de Vence

If you have some spare time, I recommend going hiking around Saint-Paul-de-Vence. One of the easiest yet most scenic trails is the one from the medieval village to the Maeght Fondation. The hiking trail to the Maeght Fondation passes by charming chapels and offers picturesque views.

You can complete it within 20 minutes, but realistically, it could take up to 30 minutes with photo stops and short breaks. Be sure to enter the Chapelle Saint Charles-Saint Claude to see the modern artworks inside! Here’s the location.

I recommend hiking outside the medieval city, as it will allow us to see and admire the walled city from afar and photograph it during the golden hours. Besides, hiking is good for our health! There are several hiking trails outside Saint-Paul de Vence, but these two, I think, are more suitable for tourists planning to visit the town for a day or two:

1. Saint-Paul de Vence Fortification Loop
2. Saint-Paul de Vence to Vence Loop through Vallon du Malvan

Loop on the Fortifications of Saint-Paul de Vence

On this hiking trail, you will walk around the village of Saint-Paul de Vence, literally just outside and alongside the ramparts. You can see stunning panoramas all around the walled city from the foot of the ramparts and bastions.

The start of the trail is at Place de Gaulle. When you face the ramparts from the plaza, head right to the ramparts and simply follow the path at the foot of Bastion du Dauphin. The panoramic scenery from the hiking trail includes hectares of terraced vineyards, numerous orange trees, and olive trees – all used in various industries in Saint-Paul de Vence such as:

1. Winemaking
2. Perfume
3. Oil production

Aside from the panoramic views from the trail, we will also see the ramparts up close. We can pick up the small details of the walls that were first ever designed by a French architect. Hiking outside the ramparts will only last 25 minutes, covering a 1.1-kilometer track of asphalt and earth tracks.

If you want to know more about this hiking trail in Saint-Paul de Vence, you may check this PDF from the official website of the tourism office.

Saint-Paul de Vence to Vence Through Vallon du Malvan

If you’re interested in longer hiking trails with more landmarks to see, I suggest following this trail. Here, you will come across the home of Marc Chagall, the Passe-Prest Convent, and the old oil mill.

This trail is the answer if you’re seeking some kind of adventure in Saint-Paul de Vence. The track passes through the Gardettes woods and a small valley of the Malvan River, offering a touch of nature! The town of Vence is the halfway point of this hiking trail. It’s another medieval village with several attractions like the Chapelle du Rosaire, ancient washhouses, galleries, etc.

You can skip the return track to Saint-Paul de Vence from the town of Vence by hopping on bus #400. The buses stop at the Marechal Juin roundabout.

This hiking trail (loop) is about 8 kilometers long and would take up to 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete. It starts at Saint-Paul de Vence’s Sainte-Claire crossroad, where you can find yellow trail indicators to guide you in the right direction. Don’t forget to wear comfortable hiking shoes when hiking the Saint-Paul de Vence to Vence trail.

The track involves asphalt, earth, and rocky footpaths. Check this link for more information about this hiking trail.

… So that’s it! That’s my list of things to do at Saint-Paul de Vence. What do you think? Will you go and visit Saint-Paul de Vence?

Helpful Links in Visiting Saint-Paul-de-Vence

I hope my post has given you numerous insights about Saint-Paul-de-Vence. For your convenience, I’ve compiled a list of links to websites and web pages that provide additional information and services to make your journey to Saint-Paul-de-Vence even more memorable.

1. Brochures — the PDF file of the map and the visiting information of each attraction in Saint-Paul-de-Vence.
2. Restaurants — Looking for a place for a romantic date? A cozy spot to relax and eat? Here is the complete list of the restaurants in Saint-Paul-de-Vence.
3. Hotels — Are you planning to stay in Saint-Paul-de-Vence for more than a day? Here you can find all the best accommodation deals in Saint-Paul-de-Vence and the surrounding area.
4. Tours — Do you like to visit Saint-Paul-de-Vence, but don’t have time to plan the itinerary? Or do you need help in seeing the bests of Saint-Paul-de-Vence? Here is the list of tours and day trips you must try.

Other Places Similar to Saint-Paul-de-Vence

If you’re still exploring the most enchanting villages in southern France, there are plenty of options besides Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Whether your aim is a romantic excursion, quaint discovery, or a photography expedition, there are several villages to note.

If you desire a village akin to Saint-Paul-de-Vence — nestled on a hilltop — Gordes, Eze, and Saint-Cirq-Lapopie should be on your list. For villages rich in history and boasting splendid architecture, make sure to explore Rocamadour, Domme, Carcassonne, and Aigues-Mortes. If you’re after a diverse experience like rustic aesthetics combined with fun outdoor activities, Chamonix and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie are not to be missed.

If you’re already in southern France, consider visiting Avignon. It’s home to an impressive palace that was once the residence of the popes hundreds of years ago. It’s an interesting town with an exceptional festival!

Visiting Saint-Paul-de-Vence (Practical Info)

Located in southeastern France, 50 kilometers (31 miles) from the French-Italian border, you’ll find the picturesque village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. It’s part of the Alpes-Maritimes department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region and makes for a perfect day trip from Nice, Antibes, or Cannes.

A car ride from these cities takes only 30 to 45 minutes. While bus #400 does service Saint-Paul-de-Vence, running from Nice to Vence and back every 30 to 45 minutes.

Compared to other popular destinations in France, the public transportation is limited. Therefore, if you’re looking to explore more of the French Riviera in a day, renting and driving a car might be your best bet.

If a day trip to Saint-Paul-de-Vence is on your itinerary, consider staying in Nice as most guided tours depart from there. These tours can be a convenient alternative if renting a car or using public transport doesn’t appeal to you.

It’s worth noting that one day is sufficient to take in all that Saint-Paul-de-Vence has to offer. You can explore the village in its entirety, take in a couple of museums, and dine at a delightful cafe. For context, a walk around the outer ramparts of the village takes less than 30 minutes. Unless you’re dreaming of a honeymoon in this idyllic village, you might find better deals by staying in nearby cities.

Here are some links that you might find useful when planning your trip:

1. Best Hotel Deals in Saint-Paul-de-Vence and nearby places.
2. Day trips (and tour guides) to Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

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