St. Paul de Vence, French Riviera, France
- Celebrated as one of the most historic sites along the entire French Riviera, this quaint commune has roots in medieval history and is located in southeastern France in the Alpes-Maritimes department.
- With a variety of glamorous beaches, this is a Mediterranean wonderland.
- A certifiable celebrity getaway, St. Paul de Vence is beloved for its French authenticity.
A French Riviera Retreat
Nestled in the hills above France's iconic Cote d'Azur, St. Paul de Vence is an ideal home base from which to explore the French Riviera. While art aficionados bask in the town's creative atmosphere, foodies and sun-seekers will love its proximity to star-studded beaches - we recommend Saint-Tropez, Monte Carlo, and Cannes - world-class wineries and Michelin-starred restaurants, all just a short drive away. Known as an illustrious hideaway and source of inspiration for the likes of Picasso, Chagall and Matisse, today St. Paul de Vence enjoys a thriving gallery scene - and its pedestrian-only cobblestone streets make it an ideal place to wander.
Quick Facts
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Suggested Airport
NCE (Nice Côte d'Azur Airport) -
Cannes Film Festival
May -
Bastille Day
July 14 -
Tourist Visa
Not needed -
Currency
Euro
Fresh Things to Do
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M Chocolat Duret-Fiers
Known for their too-good-to-be-true, handmade chocolate candies and creations, M Chocolat also makes lovely French macarons and other tasty confections. Be sure to try their chocolate mousse Trilogy cake.
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La Petite Cave de Saint Paul
Tucked away on a side street, this 14th century wine cellar is a great destination for wine lovers. Learn about wine and chocolate pairings or discover wonderful wines from various regions in France.
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Massif de l'Esterel
A peaceful mountain range located just a stone's throw away from the bustling tourist spots in the Côte d'Azur, Massif de l'Esterel is a great day hike. Or you can bike in to enjoy the fantastic views of the Ligurian Sea.
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Fondation Maeght
A beautiful architectural work of art, this indoor/outdoor space has become the ideal location for a modern and contemporary art museum. Opened in 1964, the museum houses sculptures and paintings by celebrated artists.
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Outdoor Fun with LesGeckos
For a truly unique experience, spend time in the great outdoors with LesGeckos. The company offers canyoning, climbing and via ferrata excursions that are accommodating for all ages and experience levels.
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Le Jardin Exotique d'Eze
Located in the hills of Eze, this charming garden is a great option for a lazy afternoon and features a number of exotic flora, beautiful statues and panoramic views of the beaches and sea below.
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Featured Activity
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Authentic Wine Tours and Experiences
Up in the hills of St. Paul de Vence and in the region's quaint, medieval neighborhoods, one can find a number of delightful wineries. Unlike their larger counterparts throughout Provence and the coast, these smaller wineries focus more on producing for the region and put out fantastic yields.
Le Petit Vigneau. This tiny little winery packs quite the punch. Located on only one-and-a-half acres, Le Petit Vigneau makes reds, whites and rosés and is a beloved wine producer in the region. Guests can tour the vineyard and enjoy an informational tasting.
Domaine Saint Joseph. Maker of biodynamic wines (a specific agricultural method), guests can learn about biodynamics and the idea of treating the vineyard as an ecosystem and later can enjoy a tasting of the vineyard's reds, whites and rosés.
Cave Wine Note. A visit to this chic wine cellar is a must. Cave Wine Note has an extensive wine list that includes Bordeaux and an extensive variety of local favorites. They also have lengthy whiskey and beer lists and host local music events.
For more information about vacationing in this destination, contact your Care team.
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Travel Tips
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World-Class Rosé
Famous for its blush pink color, rosés are one of the oldest types of wine and account for much of the wine production in Provence. There are numerous wineries and vineyards that offer tastings of this popular wine across the region.
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Dining Out
Unlike in America, French dinners are not something to rush through. Whether formal or casual, expect dinner time to be a multi-hour affair. Also, leave the flip-flops and beach clothes at home. Diners tend to dress up for meals in the Riviera.
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Parlez-vous Anglais?
Knowing a few French terms beyond merci and bonjour can be very helpful. Need to ask how much? Say: Combien? Do you need directions or are looking for the restroom? Just say Excusez moi, où est… or "Excuse me, where is…"
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Best Times to Visit
St. Paul de Vence and Vence are great to visit year-round. However, in July and August the entire Riviera celebrates its high season. If you prefer to skip the crowds, skip the high season and visit in the fall.
