Enjoy the French Mediterranean landscapes and traditions
Once you lay eyes on any of the cities or towns in the French Mediterranean, you will realize that it is not a coincidence that such a charming area, with beautiful and picturesque landscapes and streets, would inspire many impressionist artists.
People in this region are pretty relaxed, I mean compared with what you can see in Paris, and the food “c’est Magnifique,” as the locals would describe it!
As you stroll around the quaint streets, you will be kindly greeted by the locals with a “Bonjour” and a warm smile. The streets are narrow; the houses are nice many have preserved their facades for centuries, just like being immersed in another era.
And the opportunities to sit under the sun and enjoy something to eat or drink abound.
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Here are some of the top cities to visit while you explore the French Mediterranean:
NICE
The warm Mediterranean climate makes Nice one of the top beach holiday destinations in France and Europe.
The Promenade des Anglais
Whether you are on a road trip or backpacking, make Nice your departing point as from my experience backpacking, most trains stop in Nice and would connect to other stations around and abroad.
Take a stroll or rent a bike to explore the promenade des Anglais, a world-famous 7km promenade that runs from Castle Hill to Nice airport. With my husband, we decided to wander along the most famous portion, from the old town of Nice to the Negresco hotel.
Going to the beach in Nice
Another great activity in Nice that we enjoyed with my sister while waiting for a train connection is to take a nice sunbath to relax and recharge. The only but could be that the beach doesn’t have sand but small stones or pebbles, making it not so comfy for sleeping or sunbathing. Nevertheless, the landscapes are stunning and the weather gorgeous.
Are you planning a city Break? I found this great website to find & Book tours in Nice.
NÎMES
Nimes became a roman colony more than two millennia ago, and the monuments built here in the 1st century can still be found and make Nimes be known as the Rome of Southern France.
The main ones: La maison Carrée, Le pont du Garde and Les Arènes.
La Maison Carrée
This is the best-preserved Roman temple anywhere, and it is an exemplary piece of Vitruvian architecture.
The temple was dedicated to Gaius and Lucius Caesar, two grandsons of Emperor Augustus who died in their youth.
Les Arènes
A tour of the arena allows you to admire the stairwells and galleries, taking you back in time to the Roman Empire. Les Arènes allowed 24,000 spectators to get in and out in a few minutes without risking crushes and is one of three large Roman arenas in the south of France.
Nimes is worth visiting for its attractive old town and its gardens.
My first memories and information about France, as well as of the Mediterranean lifestyle, came from my family in France. Long story short, years ago, my aunt met a French man in Ecuador, married, and moved to Nîmes. The family sited us in Ecuador very often, and we had a huge influence from them. My love for the country, culture, and language was highly influenced by them.
Mediterranean gastronomy
Regarding french gastronomy, I can say that each meal is an event carefully prepared and thoroughly enjoyed.
No wonder the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle have such fame! With excellent wine, foie gras, cheeses, and crêpes, to name a few, make sure to enjoy some of the flavors of the French Mediterranean during your visit.
MONACO
The principality of Monaco, located on the French Riviera, has a rather small population: approximately 36.000 inhabitants. Most people, of course, know the country because of the Monte – Carlo casino, a must for people who enjoy gambling in beautiful surroundings.
Monaco, a sovereign city-state on the French Riviera, is known as a “Billionaires’ Playground.”
Are you planning a city Break? I found this great website to find & Book tours in Monaco.
With its lush vegetation and warm weather, this is a destination to visit in the Côte d’Azur.
Here are some activities we recommend for you while in Monaco.
Monte-Carlo
Visit Monaco’s wealthiest district and enjoy the awe-inspiring sea views from the terrace of Place du Casino.
Whether you are on a shopping spree or enjoy looking window shopping, stroll along Avenue de la Costa with its luxury boutiques and admire The Opera House.
From spellbinding landscapes to shopping areas, the French Mediterranean boasts a wide range of activities and is the perfect destination to create long-lasting memories. It is a place that brings many memories from my visits to my family living in Nimes.
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If you want more in-depth information and a guide that you can bring along during your trip, I recommend the Lonely Planet Province and Cote d’Azur travel guide. It is an excellent source of information maps and all you need if you plan on visiting La Province. I like the option of having a hard copy version where I can take notes and have them at hand.
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