Marseille’s Old Port with sailboats, colorful city buildings and palm trees
Art, History, and the Spirit of Provence
Southern France brings together Mediterranean light, rich history, and distinctive local culture along one of Europe's most celebrated coastlines. Begin in Nice, known for its palm-lined seafront and the lively streets of its old town. Further west, Marseille combines the character of a historic port with highlights such as the Old Port, the colorful Le Panier district, and Mucem. By contrast, Sète moves at a gentler pace, shaped by its canals, fishing heritage, and the Thau Lagoon.
Art and history are woven throughout the region. Saint-Paul-de-Vence has long been associated with artists, while Aix-en-Provence is closely linked to Paul Cezanne and the landscapes that inspired many of his works. Inland, Roman remains, medieval fortifications, and historic towns reveal centuries of layered history. During the Christmas season, festive markets, Provençal traditions, and regional specialities add to the atmosphere in cities such as Marseille and Aix-en-Provence.
From coastal cities and artistic enclaves to inland heritage and regional cuisine, southern France rewards exploration well beyond the shoreline.
Celestyal cruises to France
France Cruise Highlights
Aerial view of Nice’s Promenade des Anglais and Mediterranean coastline on the French Riviera.
The French Riviera and Provence
Along the French Riviera, elegant coastal cities and hilltop villages overlook bright Mediterranean waters and sunlit landscapes. Nice sets the tone with its broad seafront and colorful old town, while inland Provence reveals a landscape of artists, fountains, and historic townhouses. On the coast, Cassis clusters around a small harbor beneath Cap Canaille, one of the highest sea cliffs in France. Nearby, the Calanques cut into the coastline as narrow inlets framed by steep limestone cliffs, bringing a more rugged character to this celebrated shore.
Roman Amphitheatre of Nîmes in southern France, with outdoor cafés.
Roman Cities and Medieval Walls
Travel inland to discover some of southern France's most striking historic landmarks. In Nimes, the Roman Amphitheatre and the Maison Carree - one of the best-preserved Roman temples in the former Roman world - still stand at the center of the modern city. Nearby, the Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct bridge, spans the landscape in three tiers of stone arches and remains one of the most impressive surviving works of Roman engineering. Then step into the medieval world of Carcassonne, where towers and double fortified walls encircle a citadel that has dominated the surrounding landscape for centuries.
Rows of large wooden wine barrels in a traditional cellar in southern France.
Flavors of Southern France
Southern France offers just as much to discover at the table. Around Sète and the Thau Lagoon, oysters are cultivated in sheltered waters and are often enjoyed with local white wine. In Aix-en-Provence, calisson d'Aix offers a traditional confection made with almond and candied melon. The region is also associated with aromatized wines and herbal aperitifs, while Marseille brings its own local flavor through seafood, Provençal dishes, and a well-known pizza culture.
