- Key Takeaways
- The Best Package Holidays in Southern France
- Beyond the Brochure
- What to Expect
- Essential Travel Information
- The Taste of the South
- When to Visit
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is included in a typical package holiday in Southern France?
- Are package holidays in Southern France suitable for families?
- When is the best time to book a package holiday in Southern France?
- Do package holidays in Southern France cater to different dietary needs?
- What are the main attractions included in Southern France package holidays?
- Is it easy to customize a package holiday in Southern France?
- Are package holidays in Southern France good value for money?
Key Takeaways
- Southern France offers a wide range of package holidays that appeal to those interested in luxury, culture, nature, gastronomy, and family-friendly activities.
- Tourists have the opportunity to experience the best of both worlds with package holidays including hit destinations like the French Riviera and local festivals, village tours, and eco-adventures.
- Such packages usually feature guided tours, food, and access to local markets and historical sites so that the trips can be both easy and educational.
- There is flexibility for all budgets, from cheap hotels and public beaches to luxury resorts and fine dining.
- Sustainable travel is promoted through eco-conscious accommodations, public transit options, and community support initiatives.
- Whatever you do, make sure to plan ahead and tailor your itinerary in a way that guarantees you relax, explore, and experience the culture authentically.
Package holidays in southern France provide tourists with an easy way to explore the area worry-free. A lot of packages come with flights, hotels, and tours so it saves you time when you’re planning.
We love southern France for its warm beaches, sleepy little towns, and fantastic local cuisine. Some trips even include wine tastings or guided hikes.
To assist you in choosing the best option, the bulk of this post will present the top options and advice for each price range.
The Best Package Holidays in Southern France
Southern France entices visitors with its combination of sun-kissed beaches and vibrant urban centers, making it a worthy seaside town destination. France vacation packages offer the perfect blend of luxury, history, and cuisine, catering to all interests and travel styles.
1. For the Glamour Seeker
Saint-Tropez is famous for its luxurious beach clubs. With private cabanas, attentive staff, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, these are the ultimate hideaways. Monte Carlo is the place for anyone looking for a sprinkle of glamour, with its renowned casinos and high-end boutiques.
Visitors’ favorite, the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, is a stretch along the sea bordered by hotels and cafes, ideal for both people-watching or a leisurely stroll. Almost all packages in this range pledge top-notch hotels with spa and gourmet cuisine for those who want to unwind in style.
2. For the Culture Vulture
Avignon is where you can explore the Papal Palace, a 14th-century architectural wonder. In Aix-en-Provence, art lovers follow in the footsteps of Cézanne and witness Van Gogh’s influence at area museums and galleries.
Guided tours tell you the tales behind cobblestone streets, local cuisine, and traditions that persist in these towns. Festivals like Avignon’s Theater Festival unite all people, displaying the region’s artistic flair through music, dance, and performance.
3. For the Nature Lover
Taking a hike through the lavender fields of Provence is sensory overload, particularly in the summertime when the blooms are at their peak. The Calanques National Park, where jagged cliffs meet the shimmering turquoise sea, beckons adventurers to hike or kayak.
Village-to-village cycling tours wind past vineyards and olive groves, giving travelers a slower pace to soak in the countryside. La Palmyre Zoo provides a family-friendly pit stop, with over 1,600 animals and impeccably maintained grounds that showcase Southern France’s natural diversity.
4. For the Foodie
Our top package holidays in Southern France begin with gourmet tastings in Bordeaux, home of the world’s most revered wines and cheeses. If you’re wondering what to do in Nice, visit the Cours Saleya market for a taste of fresh fruit, olives and pastries.
Cooking classes abound, featuring an old family recipe for ratatouille or bouillabaisse. Michelin-starred restaurants offer seasonal menus with seafood, herbs and Provençal olive oil for those seeking gourmet dining.
5. For the Family
Escape to quiet villages, away from busy tourist areas, for the whole family to explore. Workshops with local artisans, such as pottery, soap-making or chocolate, inject a hands-on educational twist.
Village festivals invite you to feel part of the community, participate in parades, sample homemade delicacies or enjoy folk dancing. There are usually small group tours as well, so you can get to know people and make some travel memories together.
Beyond the Brochure
There’s a lot more to resort holidays in Southern France than glossy brochures would lead you to believe! This stunning seaside town mixes an ancient cultural heritage with contemporary amenities, providing visitors a special fusion of past and present. From hilltop villages to luxurious accommodations and bustling cities, Southern France livens scenes and local favorites.
Authentic Experiences
Green hotels and tour operators are the norm as tourists seek to adventure conscientiously. Numerous guesthouses and boutique hotels use local materials and emphasize both preserving the area’s charm and keeping energy consumption low.
Travelers can join local guides for tours that push beyond the Roman ruins or medieval towns to uncover hidden gems. In Marseille, for instance, guides tell tales of a city forged by commerce and immigration and explain its contemporary international culture.
Beach clean-ups and wildlife protection projects are available for those looking to contribute. They tend to connect travelers with locals, which is a more meaningful experience.
It’s easy to support local economies by purchasing handcrafts at village markets or dining at farm-to-table restaurants, which feature ingredients harvested seasonally from local farms. Biking or train travel benefits the environment and allows tourists to get closer to nature.
Sustainable Travel
Customizing a trip is simple with so many possibilities in the South of France. For the foodies among you, olive oil tastings and vineyard tours highlight the area’s agricultural heritage.
Travelers can combine lazy days, such as lounging at a chic Riviera beach club, with mountain hikes or strolls through the Camargue. Working with travel advisors who know Southern France creates a trip that fits diverse passions.
These gurus can recommend dates, typically outside of the frantic July and August, when rates are cheaper and visitors fewer. Throwing in some offbeat stays, such as a guesthouse in Aix-en-Provence or a boutique hotel in a hilltop village, completes the journey.
Customization Options
Southern France fits every travel style, a mix of big cities and quiet villages. Anticipate coastal sun for downtime, mountain adventure and city culture in the likes of Marseille.
World-class collections reside in local art museums and 17th-century palaces. Cobblestone streets provide a taste of the past.
Travelers can immerse themselves in the local lifestyle by picking up language essentials, tasting local cuisine and participating in festivals. Each trip is customizable, so if you want a quiet vacation or an action-packed adventure, there’s a lot to pick from.
The region’s settings from the French Riviera to the Camargue present inexhaustible opportunities for relaxation and exploration.
What to Expect
Package holidays in southern France have something to suit every requirement. Whether you’re seeking a budget trip or a luxury retreat, travelers can discover experiences to suit their budget and passions. The area enjoys balmy weather, particularly between June and August, lending itself perfectly to the mix of open-air activity and cultural discovery.
Crowds are at their highest during summer, with bustling events and festivals. Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures and fewer tourists, perfect for those looking to avoid the crowds.
Budget
A number of mid-priced hotels in southern France combine convenience with affordability. They frequently nestle near adorable old towns or the coast, so visitors can get to highlights by walking or public transit. Rooms are clean and several hotels provide pools or courtyards.
Dining at small bistros, bakeries and cafes can really keep expenses down while allowing travelers to taste fresh Provençal fare or traditional French pastries. They tend to serve local specialties like ratatouille or tapenade at cheaper prices than their bigger brethren.
Guided tours, be it a stroll through Aix-en-Provence’s lavender fields or uncovering the architectural history of Marseille, can be found for a fair price. These tours enrich the experience without breaking budgets.
Stirring in a few splashes of paid highlight activities, like a museum, with free outings like stretching out on public beaches or wandering village markets guarantees a satisfying, well-rounded visit.
Mid-Range
Upscale hotels and boutique inns provide added benefits, such as ocean views or individual patios. Others offer access to private pools or in-house spas, delivering indulgence without the price tag of luxury resorts.
Foodies can make reservations at popular restaurants in places like Nice or Avignon. Chefs use local produce and tasting menus vary seasonally to mirror the region’s rich food culture.
For those seeking more, private wine tours can be booked in the hills surrounding Aix or a small group cooking class can be taken. These are much more intimate and immersive experiences.
Regional luxurious spas and wellness centers provide therapies inspired by the Mediterranean climate itself, from lavender oil massages to thalassotherapy.
Luxury
Prepare to capture all essential travel information, including updated health protocols, peak festival dates, and the weather forecast. Summer months can reach temperatures above 27°C, so bring sun protection and light clothing.
It’s learning about French customs that enables travelers to engage with the locals. A little hello, courteous attention, and appropriate dining hours can ease the way.
Public transport—trains, trams, and buses—link most towns, although rental cars give you more flexibility for seeking out an isolated village or hidden beach like those around La Ciotat.
Being informed about safety, such as knowing local emergency numbers and hospitals, keeps the trip stress-free.
Essential Travel Information
Southern France attracts with its mix of sun, beaches, and culture, making it a perfect destination for those seeking luxurious accommodations and vibrant southern France tours for a hassle-free experience.
The Language
Basic French will do wonders in daily interactions, as most locals have a smattering of English, particularly in touristy areas. Learning some basics such as ‘bonjour’, ‘merci’ and ‘s’il vous plait’ is respectful and will likely open some doors for you.
Basic phrases for ordering, directions or shopping will dismantle walls. Translation apps or a small phrasebook can fill holes when more involved conversations come up. For the more adventurous, knowing some local phrases or regional slang provides added color at markets, menus, and monuments.
The Currency
EUR is the sole currency in southern France. The majority of shops, restaurants, and attractions will accept credit cards, but it’s always useful to have some cash on hand for small vendors or more rustic locations.
ATMs are ubiquitous throughout cities and towns, with exchange bureaus prevalent at airports and mainline train stations. Some cards provide better exchange rates and low or no foreign transaction fees, so check with your bank before you leave.
Budgeting is wise: daily costs can vary, with meals, transit, and entry fees adding up. Anticipate steeper rates during prime summer months and tourist meccas.
The Climate
Southern France has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. June to August can still be quite warm, with temperatures hovering around 25 to 28 degrees Celsius, which is great for summer attire.
In summer, schedule outside activities early or late to avoid the afternoon heat. Spring and fall offer lighter crowds and pleasant days, which are appealing for touring ruins or wandering through villages.
Here’s how I like to pack: a combination of lightweight clothes, sun protection, and a light jacket for evenings. Lavender fields in July contribute to the area’s seasonal allure.
The Journey
Key airports such as Nice Côte d’Azur and Marseille Provence link the area with global centers. Trains connect major cities and beach towns, providing rapid and beautiful rides.
Rent-a-cars allow you to explore villages or countryside at your own pace, but parking in these highly populated areas can be tough; the earlier, the better! Buses complement trains, particularly in more rural areas.
Give yourself a week or more to explore the coast, villages, and sights. For city visits like Nice, a few days will take in highlights, old quarters, and local parks.
The Cuisine
Southern France’s food scene combines local produce and seafood with traditional Provençal flavors. Markets overflow with olives, cheeses, and breads.
Local flavors come in the form of bouillabaisse, ratatouille, and tapenade. Food tours take visitors through busy markets and serve up local wine and cookies.
The most popular options are casual, alfresco meals overlooking the ocean or scenic mountains. Even the casual cafés treat every plate with care, and sampling a blend of street and sit-down fare embraces the area’s culinary vibe.
The Taste of the South
Southern France attracts food enthusiasts from across the globe with its profound flavors, diverse selection of restaurants and strong local cuisine. Package holidays here simplify things for travelers wanting to indulge in this region’s rich food culture, from street snacks to elegant fine dining.
The south is a land of early-rising markets, bistros overlooking sunlit squares and vineyards reaching out toward sunbaked hills.
Dining
Restaurants in Southern France range from tiny set-menu bistros to gourmet dining in ancient palaces. Some offer classic Occitan fare such as cassoulet, a bean and duck slow-cooked stew, or the famed coastal bouillabaisse.
For something more casual, socca—a salty chickpea pancake from Nice—is a beloved street food. Duck confit is the Sarlat local favorite, typically savored at intimate restaurants.
Ingredients count here. With truffles, herbs, and ripe produce gracing most plates, many kitchens source from nearby farms. Vineyards and olive groves sculpt the terrain.
Most towns have their specialties and there are cheeses, breads, and meats a few kilometers away. Whether you’re grabbing lunch at a farm café or sitting down to a multi-course dinner in Carcassonne, there’s a strong sense of place in every bite.
Shopping
Markets are at the heart of southern life. Les Halles in town were packed with stalls of olives, goat cheese, figs, and fresh-baked bread. Other markets spotlight local crafts, potters, woodworkers, and soap makers peddling handmade wares.
High-end shopping streets in Nice and Cannes are a completely different story. Here, designer shops and boutiques sell clothes, leather, and perfume.
Cordes-sur-Ciel is famed for its artisan shops and the town’s hilltop views make for a memorable place to pick up souvenirs. It’s simple to engage with native creators.
Most artisans are more than happy to talk about what they do, and buying direct supports small businesses.
Nightlife
Nightlife in southern France is easygoing and diverse. Big cities such as Marseille and Nice have cocktail bars, music venues, and clubs for every taste.
In coastal towns, a lot of folks meet up at beachfront bars to watch the sunset. These hangouts combine great vistas with a relaxed vibe, rendering them sought after for sundowner beverages.
Local festivals fill city squares with music and dancing, particularly in the summer! These open-to-the-public events are an easy way to get a taste of local culture.
Seasonal Experiences
When to go is a matter of your plans. Spring and fall are more tranquil, featuring mild temperatures and reduced tourism.
There are so many food festivals and wine events from late summer into fall. Truffle hunting tours are sought after in winter when the luxury mushrooms are most abundant.
Others, such as Carcassonne, mark local food and wine with events that attract crowds. Advance booking is wise these days.
When to Visit
Southern France attracts visitors every month, with various southern France tours offering unique experiences. Every season comes with its own beat, pricing, and crowds. From beach-crowded summers along the Mediterranean coast to silent winter getaways, timing your visit is crucial for a memorable vacation.
High Season
Summer, June through August, is the busiest period in southern France. The shores of the Mediterranean morph into crowded beaches. Towns such as Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez are alive with energy, and the open-air cafes are packed with tourists and locals alike.
Festivals illuminate the region, from jazz in Antibes to fireworks in Marseille. Anticipate hot days, typically 28–32°C, and extended daylight that reaches into the late evenings, ideal for lingering by the sea with a late dinner or evening walks.
Provence’s lavender fields peak between late June and mid-August, attracting photographers and nature enthusiasts. August is the very top of the top, with crowds the thickest and hotel and activity prices the highest. You’ll want to book well in advance for the popular towns and resorts.
Summer is the most vibrant season, but it is also the most expensive and least private.
Shoulder Season
Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) provide a very different tempo. The weather is mild (around 15–24°C) and outdoor activities are more pleasant. September stands out as a sweet spot: the sea is still warm, tourist numbers drop, and locals return to their routines.
It’s when vineyards and markets burst to life with harvest festivals, offering visitors an opportunity to partake in local traditions. Spring unfurls fields of wildflowers and autumn dyes the countryside in gold and red hues.
Hotel and flight prices fall from summer rates, too, so these months are the more budget-friendly stretch. Tourist spots aren’t as busy and you can even take Paris a little slower if you miss the Easter crush.
October is rainier, with around 65mm on average, but this gives a great excuse to check out museums, art galleries, and indoor markets.
Off-Season
November through February is the quietest time. Southern France’s winters are mild, rarely dipping below 5°C and with shorter days. The Christmas and New Year lights and markets lend magic to cities and villages.
This season is ideal for adventurers who eschew beach days in favor of tranquility, fireside naps, and culinary discovery. Museums and historic sites remain open, providing an escape from the chill and a means to immerse yourself in the area’s history.
Accommodations and packages tend to be the least expensive and most towns have winter markets and food festivals featuring local specialties. It’s in that off-season time when you can really feel the French cadence of everyday life undisturbed by throngs of tourists.
Diverse Experiences and Planning
Southern France runs the gamut from bustling beaches and upscale resorts to peaceful villages and old towns. There’s something for everyone if you’re looking for food, art, or nature.
A bit of advance planning for festivals, weather shifts, and hot tickets keeps your trip smooth. All seasons have their advantages, so pair your style of travel to the optimal months for you.
With its blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences, you’ll discover something that matches your style and tempo.
Conclusion
Package holidays in southern France. You get sun and sea and the food all at once. Local markets buzz. Vineyards for miles. Towns such as Nice or Avignon display their opulent history in their ancient streets. Fresh bread and olives abound at every meal. Trains are smooth from city to city. Days seem full but not hectic. Swim in the sea or walk ancient paths. Every journey presents novel scenery and flavors. Travelers of all ages are a good fit here. To take your next break, peep some deals, find authentic reviews, and tailor the trip to your style. Southern France awaits your next breezy getaway! Begin to plan and let the south unfold its best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in a typical package holiday in Southern France?
Most France vacation packages include flights and luxurious accommodations, along with local transfers or guided tours to stunning seaside towns.
Are package holidays in Southern France suitable for families?
Indeed, most family-friendly vacation packages include luxurious accommodations, activities, and secure transportation for children, ensuring a refined getaway for young or teenage kids.
When is the best time to book a package holiday in Southern France?
The ideal period for a France vacation package is between May and September, offering pleasant temperatures for hiking and coastal paths along the stunning landscapes.
Do package holidays in Southern France cater to different dietary needs?
Most operators, especially those offering southern France tours, cater to special diets such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free, so it’s best to inform your agent in advance.
What are the main attractions included in Southern France package holidays?
Some of the most popular attractions include the French Riviera beaches, luxurious accommodations in stunning seaside towns, and local food and wine tours in Provence.
Is it easy to customize a package holiday in Southern France?
Yep, a lot of travel firms let you customize your France vacation package. You can select different luxurious accommodations, include additional southern France tours, or special experiences.
Are package holidays in Southern France good value for money?
Package holidays to southern France can be great value, combining luxurious accommodations, transport, and activities for a lower price than if you book everything separately. Be sure to compare what’s included!