Discover Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur: The Ultimate Guide to Holidays in Southern France

The spectacular region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA) is one of the most desirable holiday destinations in Europe. Combining Mediterranean coastline, lavender-scented countryside and dramatic Alpine peaks, this southern French region offers remarkable diversity for travellers seeking sunshine, culture, gastronomy and outdoor adventure.

For visitors searching for Holiday rentals Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur, Villas to rent Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur, or Luxury houses in Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur, the region delivers an unforgettable blend of scenery and sophistication.

At Rent-in-France.co.uk, holidaymakers can browse a hand-picked collection of properties across the region — from coastal villas with private pools to countryside farmhouses and elegant townhouses. Even better, guests benefit from Direct bookings in Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur, booking directly with owners and paying zero booking fees.

Ravishing Bastide provençale in Lourmarin, 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms

The Departments of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

The region is made up of six diverse departments, each offering its own character, landscapes and attractions:

• Bouches-du-Rhône – Home to Marseille, Aix-en-Provence and the Camargue.

• Var – Famous for Saint-Tropez, Toulon and stunning Mediterranean beaches.

• Alpes-Maritimes – The heart of the French Riviera, including Nice and Cannes.

• Vaucluse – Known for Avignon, the Luberon and Mont Ventoux.

• Alpes-de-Haute-Provence – Lavender fields, Verdon Gorge and rural charm.

This combination of coastline, countryside and mountains makes Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur one of the most geographically diverse regions in France.

Before France’s 2016 regional reforms, this area already grouped together the historic provinces of Provence, the Southern Alps and the Côte d’Azur — identities that still strongly influence the culture and lifestyle today.

The French Riviera (Côte d’Azur)

The glamorous Côte d’Azur stretches along the Mediterranean from Menton near the Italian border to the beaches of Saint-Tropez.

Nice

Nice is the region’s largest city and a cultural hub. Its Promenade des Anglais, Old Town markets and year-round sunshine make it perfect for visitors seeking Holiday homes Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur close to beaches and museums.

Cannes

Globally renowned for its film festival, Cannes offers sandy beaches, designer boutiques and a stylish marina. It’s a prime destination for Luxury houses in Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur with sea views.

Saint-Tropez

Once a fishing village, Saint-Tropez became synonymous with Riviera glamour. Visitors booking Villas to rent Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur here enjoy both exclusivity and authentic Provençal charm.

Antibes

Antibes blends medieval heritage with crystal-clear waters. The Cap d’Antibes peninsula is particularly popular for upscale Holiday rentals Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur.

Modern 5 Bedroom Villa on the Cap d`Antibes Just a Stroll to the Coast

Inland Provence – Lavender, Vineyards & Hilltop Villages

Beyond the coastline lies classic Provence: olive groves, vineyards and honey-coloured stone villages.

Aix-en-Provence

An elegant university city known for fountains and Cézanne, Aix-en-Provence is ideal for boutique stays and charming Chambres d'hotes in Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur.

Avignon

Avignon boasts the magnificent Palais des Papes and an internationally acclaimed arts festival. It’s a cultural hotspot for travellers booking Holiday homes Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur.

Arles

Famous for its Roman amphitheatre and Van Gogh connections, Arles is steeped in history and Provençal tradition.

Luberon

The Luberon is synonymous with lavender fields and perched villages such as Gordes and Roussillon. It’s a dream location for countryside Luxury houses in Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur with pools and panoramic views.

The Southern Alps – Outdoor Adventure

For mountain lovers, the Alpine departments of Hautes-Alpes and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence offer skiing in winter and hiking, cycling and watersports in summer.

Gap

Gap is a gateway to the Alps and perfect for active family holidays.

Mercantour National Park

Mercantour National Park features dramatic peaks, wildlife and crystal-clear alpine lakes — ideal for nature enthusiasts staying in rural Holiday rentals Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur.

Gastronomy of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

The region’s cuisine is one of its greatest attractions. Expect:

• Bouillabaisse from Marseille

• Ratatouille

• Tapenade

• Fresh Mediterranean seafood

• Rosé wines from Côtes de Provence

• Olive oil and aromatic herbs

Local markets overflow with tomatoes, figs, cheeses and lavender honey. Staying in one of our Chambres d'hotes in Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur or private villas allows guests to fully immerse themselves in Provençal food culture.

Activities for Every Type of Holidaymaker

Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, the region delivers:

Beach Escapes

Golden and pebble beaches line the Riviera and Var coastline. Families often prefer Villas to rent Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur with private pools near the sea.

Hiking & Cycling

Mont Ventoux, Alpine passes and Luberon trails offer spectacular routes.

Cultural Festivals

Avignon’s theatre festival and summer events along the coast attract international visitors.

Wine & Olive Oil Tours

Explore vineyards and mills throughout Vaucluse and Var.

Sailing & Water Sports

The Mediterranean coastline is ideal for sailing, paddleboarding and kayaking.

Accommodation for All Budgets

Through Rent-in-France.co.uk, travellers can find:

• Luxury houses in Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur with private pools

• Stylish city apartments

• Traditional mas farmhouses

• Family-friendly Holiday homes Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur

• Seaside Villas to rent Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur

• Authentic Chambres d'hotes in Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur

All properties offer Direct bookings in Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur, meaning guests communicate directly with owners and pay zero booking fees.

Why Choose Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur?

• Mediterranean beaches and glamorous Riviera towns

• Lavender fields and picturesque villages

• Alpine ski resorts and hiking trails

• Rich Roman and medieval heritage

• Exceptional gastronomy and wine

• Wide range of Holiday rentals Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur to suit all budgets

From the coastline of Nice and Cannes to the lavender fields of the Luberon and the peaks of the Alps, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur offers something for every traveller.

Browse the finest selection of Holiday rentals Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur today on Rent-in-France.co.uk. Book directly with owners, enjoy Direct bookings in Provence-Alpes Cote d'azur, and experience southern France without booking fees.

Your perfect Provençal escape starts with Rent-in-France.