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3 Day Itinerary Across Southern France

By Urvish Shah•2024-03-15
3 Day Itinerary Across Southern France

🗓️ Day 1: Arrive in Monaco – The Playground of the Rich & Famous

Morning:

  • Arrive in Monaco and check into your hotel or drop off your bags. Monaco
  • Start your day with a walk around Port Hercule and admire the luxury yachts.
  • Visit the Prince's Palace of Monaco and catch the Changing of the Guard.

Afternoon:

  • Explore the Old Town (Monaco-Ville) – stroll through narrow alleys, visit Saint Nicholas Cathedral, and enjoy panoramic views.
  • Stop by the Oceanographic Museum, a world-class aquarium with stunning architecture.

Evening:

  • Try your luck at the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo or just marvel at the opulent building and luxury cars parked outside. Casino de Monte-Carlo
  • Dine at a seaside restaurant like Le Vistamar or Café de Paris Monte-Carlo for a memorable meal.

📌 Optional: Take a sunset walk through the Exotic Garden of Monaco (Jardin Exotique) for incredible cliffside views.

🗓️ Day 2: Nature Escape – Gorges du Verdon & Lavender Fields of Provence

Early Morning:

  • Depart early for Gorges du Verdon (~2.5-3 hour drive from Nice).
  • Arrive at Lac de Sainte-Croix, the entry point to the gorge. Gorges du Verdon

Morning to Afternoon:

  • Go hiking along the Sentier Blanc-Martel trail for epic canyon views or if you have a car, you can drive to the top of the gorge and down. Gorges du Verdon
  • Rent a kayak or paddle boat to explore the turquoise waters of the gorge. Gorges du Verdon
  • Have lunch in the nearby village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, one of France’s most beautiful villages.

Late Afternoon:

  • Head to the Valensole Plateau or Sault to explore lavender fields (best in late June to mid-July).
  • Capture the iconic photo of endless purple rows backed by the rolling hills of Provence. Lavender Fields

Evening:

  • Return to your accommodation in Provence or head back toward Nice if you prefer to sleep closer to Day 3 destinations.

🗓️ Day 3: Coastal Charms – Nice & Cannes

Morning in Nice:

  • Start your day with a walk along the Promenade des Anglais. Nice
  • Visit the Old Town (Vieux Nice) for vibrant streets, local markets, and a climb up Castle Hill (Colline du Château) for panoramic views.
  • Grab a coffee and Niçoise-style breakfast in one of the local cafés.

Afternoon in Cannes:

  • Drive or take the train to Cannes (about 45 minutes).
  • Stroll the La Croisette Boulevard, lined with luxury boutiques and palm trees.
  • Visit the Palais des Festivals, home of the famous Cannes Film Festival. Cannes
  • Relax at one of the public or private beaches, or have a leisurely seaside lunch.

Evening:

  • End your trip with a sunset dinner at a rooftop restaurant or beach club.
  • Enjoy the relaxed Riviera vibe before heading back or continuing your travels.

✨ Bonus Tips:

  • Best Time to Visit: Late June to mid-July for lavender fields, sunny weather, and fewer crowds than August.
  • Transportation: Renting a car is highly recommended for Provence and Gorges du Verdon. Trains are great for coastal cities like Nice and Cannes.
  • Packing Essentials: Sunscreen, swimwear, hiking shoes, water bottles, and a good camera for lavender season!

This Southern France itinerary combines the glitz of Monaco, the raw beauty of nature in the Verdon Gorge, the dreamy lavender fields of Provence, and the glamorous charm of Nice and Cannes. Perfect for a long weekend or a short getaway!