Saint-Paul de Vence, Alpes-Maritimes
Perfectly intact medieval village renowned for its art
Saint-Paul de Vence is known for being an art mecca, hundreds of galleries and workshops tucked amongst the tiny old streets of a perfectly preserved medieval village.
The lanes are full of art galleries, gift shops and chic cafés. Sculptures appear around every turn and many charming fountains can be found in nooks and crannies around the village. Many of these artists live in the surrounding area and have workshops and studios which provide a wealth of art in all different styles - modern, abstract and figurative. Other crafts made locally include woodwork, weaving and ceramics, all of which can be bought in the village boutiques.
At the entrance to the village is a large square lined with olive trees where locals gather daily to play boules and sip pastis. They are well-used to being gawped at and photographed and are usually happy to explain the game to you, even happier if you buy them a drink to say thank you. There is a friendly bar with a long terrace that runs the length of the square where you can relax and watch the daily life of Saint Paul de Vence go by.
Although definitely a “must-see”, Saint Paul de Vence suffers from being on everyone's list of places to see and so it's swarming with people throughout the year, try to avoid peak tourist season if possible. The tourist office provides guided tours in many languages during the summer.
History & Culture in Vence
The village dates back to the 12th century when the chateau was built at the summit of the town, a walk around the perfectly intact ramparts shows just what a strategic position it held looking out for miles in all directions.
It developed throughout the middle ages when the pretty narrow streets and charming squares were built. Saint Paul de Vence gained notoriety in the early 20th century when a bunch of artists made it their home - Matisse, Chagall, Renoir, Modigliani, the list goes on.
Since then, writers, artisans, film directors and international celebrities have spent time here, enhancing its reputation as a haven for artists.
Sights & Attractions in Vence
With a multitude of art galleries to peruse you really can get lost wandering around this town. They hold a varied collection of local French Riviera style paintings to International artists and of works by the famous artists of the region such as Van Gogh, Cezanne and Picasso...it just depends on your budget.
Sights in Vence
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Maeght Fondation Museum, St-Paul de Vence
Just outside Saint-Paul de Vence lies one of France's most famous modern and contemporary art museums. Surrounded by pleasant gardens, this is a nice place to spend your afternoon.
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White Penitents Chapel (The Folon Chapel), St-Paul de Vence
This chapel's oldest parts date from the 17th century, namely its three-sided tower. It now contains contemporary artwork made in 2005 by Jean-Michel Folon.
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Chateau de Villeneuve, Vence
The château (more like a townhouse, so don't go looking for turrets) was originally built in the 17th century and was gifted to the town of Vence by Emile Hugues who had been the mayor.
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Rosaire Chapel, Vence
Matisse's Final Masterpiece, this chapel, was built in 1949 and designed in its entirety by Henri Matisse.
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Collegiate Church (Eglise Collegiale), St-Paul de Vence
This simple church was first built in the 14th century, and finished in the 18th century. It showcases a combination of structures and styles.
Dining in Vence
Restaurants in Vence
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Toile Blanche Restaurant, St Paul de Vence
Toile Blanche Le Restaurant offers fresh, seasonal dishes inspired by the Mediterranean, where simplicity meets creative flair.
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Le Saint-Martin Restaurant, Vence
Gourmet restaurant of the Saint-Martin Spa & Chateau hotel to the north of Vence.
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Le Saint-Paul Restaurant, Saint Paul de Vence
Laurent Paccini is the chef at this Relais & Châteaux hotel and brings the food of different cultures to his excellent Mediterranean restaurant in Saint-Paul de Vence.
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La Table de Pierre Restaurant, St Paul de Vence
La Table de Pierre offers refined, garden-led cuisine by Chef Emmanuel Lehrer in a romantic setting with views over the estate.
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La Colombe d'Or Restaurant, St Paul de Vence
Enjoy refined regional cuisine in an iconic setting featuring original works by Picasso, Matisse, Miró and more.
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Le Caruso Restaurant, St Paul de Vence
This restaurant serves authentic flavours of the south, pizzas and fresh pastas as well as some interesting specialities.
Events in Vence
The main market is on Wednesday morning, with local produce markets open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and weekends. Saturday morning also sees a flower and plant market at the entrance to the village.
There is a small winemaking community that has cultivated some of the surrounding land, and small quantities of rather good Côte de Provence wine are produced here each year.
Events in Antibes
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Villeneuve-Loubet night market
Stalls with souvenirs, handmade objects, beach articles and much more held on the seafront at Villeneuve-Loubet.
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Festival d'Art Sacré
Showcase for some of the finest heritage treasures of the town and host to a programme of exceptional concerts in the Cathedral of Antibes and the Saint-Bernardin chapel.
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Swim between the Lerins Islands
With the wonderful backdrop, the warm waters of the Mediterranean and a friendly atmosphere, you can join hundreds of other swimmers in this popular event.
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Jazz au Château, Cagnes sur Mer
Gather at Place du Château on a Friday evening to enjoy a wonderful evening of live music in an unforgettable venue.
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Musical Fireworks Festival, Juan les Pins
Fireworks display in the Bay of Juan les Pins. A wonderful way to celebrate the long, hot summer evenings on the Côte d'Azur.
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Pottery market
The RAJAC association has organised an exhibition, sale and demonstration of pottery in Antibes.
Things to do in Vence
Things To Do in Vence
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Azur Wine Tours, Vence
Learn about the specific terroirs of the Cote de Provence region and be guided through the different grape varieties and wines that they produce.
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Terrain des Boules, St-Paul de Vence
One of the most famous pétanque playing grounds is in the Place Général de Gaulle in Saint-Paul where expert locals take on celebrities at this quintessentially French pastime.
Where to stay in Vence
Some of the best accommodation on the Riviera is to be found around St Paul de Vence. From delightful and charming B&B's where you can immerse yourself in French Provençal country life to luxury spa resorts where they will make you feel like royalty in your very own château. And all with wonderful views down to the coast and the sea.
Hotels in Vence
Hotels in Vence
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Hotel de Mougins
Set in a historic 18th-century bastide, the four-star Hôtel de Mougins offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of Provence. Surrounded by Mediterranean gardens and filled with Provençal charm, it’s the perfect base for unwinding and exploring the Côte d’Azur.
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La Colombe D'Or Hotel, St Paul de Vence
This celebrated Provençal inn combines elegant accommodation with a private collection of modern art by renowned 20th-century artists.
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Cap d'Antibes Beach Hotel, Juan les Pins
This beach hotel is located in the Juan-Les-Pins area of Antibes and boasts fantastic sea views. Unlike many hotels in the area this architecture is sleek and modern and as expected, the interior mimics the opulence of the exterior.
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Juana Hotel, Juan les Pins
Hotel Juana is a stylish 1930s landmark offering timeless elegance, refined service, and an enviable location on the French Riviera.
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Les Rosées Hotel
Effortlessly elegant and full of charm, this authentic Provençal mas offers a peaceful escape for romantic getaways and family retreats alike.
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La Bastide Saint Antoine Hotel, Grasse
30 August 20257 NightsLa Bastide Saint-Antoine in Grasse sits within five hectares of lush Mediterranean gardens and olive groves. It overlooks the surrounding plains and the Bay of Cannes, offering stunning views and a feast for the senses.
Price: €3,780
How to get to Vence
Transfers for Antibes
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Private airport transfers
From Nice airport to Antibes, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
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Private Jet and Helicopter Transfers
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
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Helicopter Charter Flights
Heli Securite offer transfers on a helicopter from the airport to your yacht or various destinations in and around the Cannes area, St Tropez and Monaco. In addition to this they also service all of the main French ski resorts from their base in Courchevel.
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Car Riviera Airport Transfers
Car Riviera offers a range of cars available for hire with a driver to chauffeur you either to and from the airport, for sight seeing trips or just to and from dinner so you can sit back and relax. Large vehicles such as Espace and Multi vans are at your disposal.
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Chabe Airport Transfers
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
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Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
Created in 1976 this company has grown and has now transported well over 100,000 passengers. They have a fleet of 12 craft to meet client demands.
Property For Sale in Vence
Property for Sale in Vence
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Villa for Sale
Set within a private and secure estate, this charming Provençal-style villa offers a peaceful and comfortable lifestyle while ensuring complete privacy. It boasts breathtaking sea views and absolute tranquility, making it a true haven of serenity.
Price: €2,750,000
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Villa for Sale
Nestled at the summit of a prestigious residential estate, this new 575 sq m contemporary villa embodies the very essence of luxury.
Price: €7,700,000
