Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur greets you with sun, sea and mountains all at once. The Mediterranean sparkles as you drive along coastal roads. Lavender fields stretch across the hills. Olive groves and vineyards dot the valleys. Villages cling to cliffs, their terracotta roofs glowing in the sunlight. Each part of the region has its own rhythm. Along the Riviera, palm-lined promenades and lively marinas show off luxury yachts and colourful cafés. Inland, markets overflow with fresh produce, cheeses and herbs. Narrow streets wind through medieval towns where fountains and squares invite you to pause. The mountains of the Alps rise sharply, offering hiking trails, ski villages, and panoramic views over valleys and lavender fields below. Small roads twist through gorges and past castles perched on hilltops. The scent of pine and rosemary fills the air, blending with salty sea breezes near the coast. Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur is more than a destination. It is a journey through landscapes, flavours and history. From the glamour of Nice to the quiet charm of Luberon, the region invites you to explore, taste and soak it all in.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur highlights

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The Scenic Route

The Heritage Drive

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History of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

The Greeks founded Massalia, now Marseille, around 600 BC. They made it a trading port linking the Mediterranean to inland Gaul. Roman rule followed. Roads, aqueducts and amphitheaters were built. Some still stand in Arles, Orange and Aix-en-Provence. In the Middle Ages, the region was divided into feudal territories. Cities like Avignon rose to prominence. The papacy even moved there in the 14th century. Fortified hilltop villages and castles were built for protection. Many remain today as historic sites. The Renaissance brought growth and culture. Palaces, churches, and public squares appeared. Trade, agriculture and wine production flourished. Coastal towns started attracting merchants and travellers, laying the foundation for the Côte d’Azur’s future fame. The 19th century transformed the region again. The French Riviera became a playground for European aristocracy. Railways and roads connected mountains, valleys and coast. Artists like Cézanne, Van Gogh and Matisse captured the light, colours and landscapes. In the 20th century, the region grew as a hub of culture, tourism and Mediterranean life. Historic towns, Roman ruins, hilltop villages, and coastal cities coexist with modern ports and scenic routes. Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur is a road trip through millennia of history.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur