Spending a few days on the Côte d’Azur? Don’t miss a visit to Saint-Paul-de-Vence. You’ll love the cobbled streets and exceptional views of this fortified medieval village. But it’s also its famous artistic past that attracts visitors, cultivated by its many art galleries.
Discover our ideas for things to do in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, illustrated with photos that will make you want to go. Bonus: useful tips and additional activities.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is Saint-Paul-de-Vence worth a visit?
Oh yes, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is well worth a visit! Like us, you’re sure to love this charming hilltop village, which combines a medieval heritage with a vibrant artistic scene. Panoramic views over the Mediterranean and the Nice hinterland are breathtaking.
It’s one of the most beautiful villages on the Côte d’Azur. Its status as an artists’ village makes it an unmissable destination for lovers of art and Provencal authenticity.
If you don’t have a car, you can discover this and other medieval villages on the Côte d’Azur on an organized tour departing from Nice. See prices, photos and availability.
1. Getting lost in narrow streets
We loved wandering through the cobbled streets of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. These narrow passages lined with blond stone houses transport you back to the heart of medieval Provence.
Each alley reveals fascinating architectural details such as carved lintels, mullioned windows, arches and ancient doors. You’ll also discover many local craft stores, artists’ studios and galleries that bring the village to life. The atmosphere is more peaceful in the early morning or at the end of the day.
- Free access all year round
- Best times: early morning or evening
- Comfortable shoes recommended
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2. Admire the panoramic views from the ramparts
The ramparts of Saint-Paul-de-Vence offer exceptional panoramic views of the Côte d’Azur. We couldn’t take our eyes off the views stretching from the Mediterranean to the peaks of the Alpes-Maritimes.
The “chemin de ronde” takes you all the way around the village, with views of the sea, the green hills and the surrounding hilltop villages. You’ll particularly appreciate the sunsets from the south-facing terrace on the ramparts. These perfectly preserved 16th-century fortifications bear witness to the strategic importance of the village at the time.
- Free access at all times
- Full tour: approx. 30min
- Ideal for sunset photos
3. Tour the village churches
The Collegiate Church of Saint-Paul-de-Vence is well worth a visit. Inside, we discovered some magnificent works of sacred art, and especially, among the side chapels, that of Saint-Clément, distinguished by its painted decorations.
The more modest Chapelle Sainte-Claire is just as charming. You’ll find it near the ramparts.
- Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. generally
- Free admission
- Silence requested
OUR TPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR IN Provence
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
4. Take shelter under the arches near the Grande Fontaine
The Grande Fontaine is a landmark in Saint-Paul-de-Vence. There was a thunderstorm during our visit, and we appreciated being able to take shelter under the stone vaults next door. They also offer a welcome respite on hot summer days. This 18th-century fountain once supplied the entire village and remains a natural focal point.
- Free access at all times
- Drinking water available
- Ideal resting point
5. Spend the night at Hôtel Le Saint-Paul
Hôtel Le Saint-Paul offers an exceptional lodging experience in the heart of the historic village. We were charmed by the elegance of this 5-star establishment, which combines Provencal character with modern comfort. Rooms overlook the village rooftops or the surrounding countryside, creating a peaceful, romantic atmosphere.
Enjoy breakfast on the terrace with panoramic views. The hotel also boasts a renowned gourmet restaurant, perfect for relaxing after a day exploring the village.
- Restaurant Le Saint-Paul on site, reservation here
- Panoramic terrace
- See prices, photos and availability and… Make a reservation.
WHERE TO STAY ON THE Côte d’Azur
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
6. Visit Marc Chagall’s grave in the cemetery
The Saint-Paul-de-Vence cemetery is the final resting place of Marc Chagall, one of the greatest painters of the 20th century, who spent his last years in the village. We were touched by the simplicity of this tomb and by the small pebbles left by visitors.
You’ll also discover the graves of other personalities who have chosen to rest in this peaceful spot overlooking the sea. Such is the case of the Maeght family. In the cemetery, the Chapelle Saint-Michel housed a beautiful tapestry by Italian painter Giulia Andreani.
- Opening hours: 8am-5pm in winter, 8am-7pm in summer
- Free access
- Respect for the requested silence
7. Find Jacques Prévert’s house
The house where Jacques Prévert lived is a moving literary pilgrimage in Saint-Paul-de-Vence. We sought out this discreet home where the poet composed some of his most beautiful texts. Prévert appreciated the tranquility of the village and the inspiration he found in its authentic Provencal setting.
This quest allows us to discover little-known corners of the village, while paying tribute to one of the greatest French poets of the 20th century. You won’t be able to visit the interior of this private property, but its leafy facade bears a commemorative plaque. However, it is possible to rent the apartment occupied by the poet, which is now a gîte.
- Private property, exterior view only
- Visible commemorative plaque
- Accessible on a stroll through the village
- More details here
8. Lunch at Colombe d’Or
Restaurant La Colombe d’Or is a gastronomic and artistic institution in Saint-Paul-de-Vence. We were moved by this legendary establishment where Picasso, Matisse, Prévert and many other celebrities rubbed shoulders. The walls are adorned with original works donated by the artists in exchange for their meals, creating a veritable private museum.
The Provencal cuisine is refined and the setting exceptional, amidst masterpieces of modern art. The shaded terrace offers an idyllic haven for savoring this unique experience combining art, gastronomy and history.
- Open all year except January
- High budget but unique experience
- Reservations essential here
HAVE FUN WITH THESE activities
- Great kayak trips in:
Saint-Tropez to the Ramatuelle reserve
Cassis to the calanques - Helicopter flight from Cannes
- Shuttle service along the coast between Nice and Saint-Tropez
- Bike tours: eBike in Nice – Mountain biking in the Esterel massif
9. Explore art galleries
Saint-Paul-de-Vence boasts a number of art galleries that perpetuate the village’s artistic tradition. We enjoyed discovering the contemporary and classical works on display in these intimate spaces, which reflect the current artistic vitality of the site.
The village also hosts an International Biennial of Contemporary Art, transforming public space into an open-air exhibition. During our visit, we admired Xavier Veilhan‘s L’Oiseau Bleu, a monumental aluminum sculpture with clean lines, installed on the ramparts.
- Galleries: opening hours vary, admission generally free
- More than 30 galleries in the village
- Biennale Internationale de Saint-Paul-de Vence, more details here
10. Drive to the Maeght Foundation
The Fondation Maeght is one of Europe’s most prestigious museums of modern and contemporary art. We were impressed by this exceptional place, designed by architect José Luis Sert in collaboration with some of the greatest artists of the 20th century. The permanent collections include works by Miró, Calder, Giacometti and, of course, Chagall.
Take a stroll through the sculpture gardens, where nature and artistic creations meet in harmony. Temporary exhibitions of the highest standard complete this remarkable cultural offering, located just a few minutes from the village.
- Opening hours: 10am-6pm (July-September), 10am-5pm (October-June)
- Price: €16
- Free on-site parking
- See the latest news on the official website here
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Other attractions in and around Saint-Paul-de-Vence
We’ve also discovered a number of other attractions that deserve special attention during your stay in and around Saint-Paul-de-Vence.
The Local History Museum
This small museum traces the history of the village from medieval times to its transformation into an artistic Mecca. The collections feature everyday objects, old documents and accounts of life in days gone by.
Vence and the surrounding area
A few kilometers away, the town of Vence is also worth a visit for its cathedral, ramparts and famous Chapelle du Rosaire decorated by Matisse, whose stained glass designs can also be seen at the Musée Matisse in Nice.
Nearby hilltop villages and coastal towns
Tourrettes-sur-Loup, nicknamed “the city of violets”, offers other perspectives on the architecture and landscapes of Nice’s hinterland, perfectly complementing the discovery of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. On the seaside, the town of Cagnes-sur-Mer offers a wide range of activities, from beachside strolls to art trails, including the Renoir Museum.
How to get to Saint-Paul-de-Vence + parking
Where is Saint-Paul-de-Vence
- In the hinterland of the Côte d’Azur, between Nice and Cannes
- Nice: 25min drive
- Cannes: 35min drive
- Antibes: 20min drive
How to get there
- By car: from the A8 freeway (Cagnes-sur-Mer exit)
- By bus: from Nice (line 400)
- Organized tours from the main towns on the Côte d’Azur. See prices, photos and availability.
Parking in Saint-Paul-de-Vence
- Several pay parking lots are available on the outskirts of the village.
- We chose Parking Saint-Paul, located at the entrance to the village, 2 minutes’ walk from the historic center.
- Use official parking lots, as illegal parking is strictly forbidden and subject to fines.
Useful tips for visiting Saint-Paul-de-Vence
How long and when?
Allow half a day for a full tour of the village and a full day if you include the Maeght Foundation. Spring and autumn offer the best conditions, with fewer crowds and ideal light for photos.
Tour directions, map and difficulty
- Start at the ramparts for panoramic views, then lose yourself in the narrow streets before visiting the art galleries.
- The steep, cobbled streets require good shoes.
- A map is available from the tourist office at the entrance to the village.
Visiting with children
- Children will love the treasure hunt organized by the tourist office.
- Exploring the ramparts evokes fortified castles
- The Maeght Foundation also offers specially designed activities for young visitors during the school vacations.
- More details and activities here
Restaurants
During our visit, we had lunch at Restaurant ØBatik on the ramparts, with a magnificent view of the surrounding hills. We’ve since learned that the restaurant has changed its name to Restaurant Les Pivoines.
Find out more here.
Still on the heights, we also spotted Restaurant Les Remparts, with its pretty terrace set back a little. It was fully booked when we visited.
Reservations recommended here.
Saint-Paul-de-Vence in winter
Winter reveals a more authentic Saint-Paul-de-Vence, far from the summer crowds. It’s a chance to discover the village in a more relaxed atmosphere. The galleries remain open, and the panoramic views from the ramparts retain all their magic in the Côte d’Azur winter light.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE Côte d’Azur
- Inspiration
The most beautiful landscapes in 30 photos
Best things to do on the Côte d’Azur
Most beautiful villages
Best beaches on the Côte d’Azur
Most beautiful gardens
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Most beautiful islands
Secret places
- Practical advice
Successful travel on the Côte d’Azur (coming soon)
Rent a car in Provence – in Nice – in Cannes – in Marseille – in Aix-en-Provence.
Itineraries: 5 days – 1 week – 10 days
Weekend ideas: best-of – romantic – luxury – unusual
- Where to stay
Where to stay on the Côte d’Azur
Best luxury hotels on the Côte d’Azur
Hotels by the sea
Best boutique-hotels
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
