Have you ever stumbled across a village that feels like stepping into a living painting? Somewhere that captures your heart instantly and lingers in your memory long after you leave? That is exactly what happened to us in Saint Paul de Vence. In this guide, we will share everything you need to know about visiting this enchanting medieval hilltop town in the South of France. From the best things to do to where to eat, where to stay, and even how to get there, we promise you will leave this article with all the inspiration and practical tips you need to plan your own trip to Saint Paul de Vence.
Is Saint Paul de Vence Worth Visiting?
Saint Paul de Vence is one of the oldest medieval towns on the French Riviera and has been attracting artists, writers, and travellers for decades. Perched high on a hilltop, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, winding cobbled streets, and a timeless atmosphere. This small village has a way of slowing you down. You find yourself wandering without a plan, discovering hidden squares, art galleries, and charming cafés at every turn.
For art lovers, it is a dream destination. For romantics like us, it is pure magic. And for travellers looking for something more authentic than the glitzy coastal cities of the Riviera, Saint Paul de Vence offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and charm.
A Brief History of Saint Paul de Vence
Understanding the history of Saint Paul de Vence helps you appreciate its character. The village dates back to the 9th century, but much of what we see today was shaped in the Middle Ages when it became a fortified stronghold. Its thick ramparts, built by François I in the 16th century, remain remarkably intact and give the town its distinctive look.
In the 20th century, Saint Paul de Vence became a magnet for artists. Painters like Marc Chagall, Henri Matisse, and Picasso all spent time here. Writers and poets, including Jacques Prévert, also drew inspiration from the village. That artistic spirit is still alive today, with dozens of galleries lining the streets.
Best Time to Visit Saint Paul de Vence
Saint Paul de Vence is beautiful year-round, but the experience changes with the seasons.
- Spring (April to June): Warm temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds make this an ideal time to visit.
- Summer (July and August): Expect the busiest season. The atmosphere is lively, but the narrow streets can feel crowded.
- Early Autumn (September): This is when we visited, and it was perfect. The summer crowds had thinned, yet the days were still warm and sunny. We could enjoy wandering the village at a relaxed pace.
- Winter (November to February): Much quieter, and while some shops or galleries may have reduced hours, you get a peaceful, local experience.
We recommend early September if you want the best balance of sunshine and space to explore.
We never set off on an adventure without good travel insurance, and after years of travelling we’ve found Heymondo to be the one we trust most. When Ronan had a health scare on a trip a few years back, we realised just how important reliable cover really is. Heymondo makes the whole process simple, from getting a quick quote to accessing their 24/7 medical chat when you’re abroad. We wouldn’t recommend them if we didn’t use them ourselves, and they’ve given us complete peace of mind on trips big and small. You can get your own cover here with Heymondo and travel knowing you’re protected. The good news is that you will get 5% discount just for using our link.
How to Get to Saint Paul de Vence from Nice
Saint Paul de Vence is a popular day trip from Nice, located only about 20 kilometres away. You can reach it easily by both car or public transport.
By Car
Driving is the most convenient option, especially if you want the flexibility to explore the surrounding countryside. From Nice, the drive takes about 40 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is available just outside the ramparts at the entrance to the village. It’s worth bearing in mind though that inside the village the roads are narrow and parking spaces can be tight.
By Public Transport
If you do not have a car, you can take bus 400 from Nice, which stops directly in Saint Paul de Vence. The journey takes around 45 minutes to an hour. The bus departs from Nice’s Parc Phoenix or the main bus station. Tickets are inexpensive, making this a great budget-friendly option. We decided to walk from the airport to Nice Saint-Augustin train station. It only takes about 7 minutes to walk. From there it is only two stops to Cagnes-sur-Mer. Just outside the train station you can catch the ZOU bus 655 directly to the village. The journey costs €2.50 and takes about 30 minutes from Cagnes-sur-Mer.
How Much Time Do You Need in Saint Paul de Vence
You can see the highlights of Saint Paul de Vence in just a few hours, making it a perfect day trip from Nice or other towns along the Riviera. However, we truly recommend staying overnight. We spent three days here, which gave us time to explore slowly, enjoy quiet mornings before the day-trippers arrived, and experience the village at night when the streets felt magical. We can’t recommend enough spending at least one night in Saint Paul de Vence. Even one night will let you see a more authentic side of the village that most visitors miss and it truly lets you experience the magic here.
Best Things to Do in Saint Paul de Vence
There is so much to see and do in this small village, but here are the highlights we recommend.
1. Stroll the Cobbled Streets
The best way to experience Saint Paul de Vence is simply to wander. Lose yourself in the narrow lanes, admire the old stone houses, and pause to take in the views from the fortified walls. Every corner offers a new surprise.
2. Explore the Ramparts
Walking along the village walls gives you panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is a reminder of the town’s strategic importance in history and a fantastic photo spot.
3. Visit the Fondation Maeght
Just a short walk from the village, Fondation Maeght is one of the most important modern art museums in France. It houses works by Miró, Chagall, Braque, and Giacometti, among others. Even the building and its gardens are works of art.
4. Admire the Art Galleries
Saint Paul de Vence is lined with galleries. On the days Ronan was working, I wandered the town on my own, ducking in and out of small galleries. Each one offered something different, from contemporary pieces to traditional Provencal scenes. Even if you are not planning to buy, the galleries make for inspiring browsing. There are also some beautiful sculptures to find throughout the city, so keep your eyes peeled.
5. Visit the Cemetery of Saint Paul de Vence
This may sound unusual, but the village cemetery is a place of history and reflection. It is where Marc Chagall is buried. His grave is often adorned with flowers and pebbles left by admirers.
6. Stop at Place de la Grande Fontaine
This picturesque square once served as the village marketplace. Today, it is a peaceful place to sit and watch local life unfold. It is a busy spot though as everyone wants to get their photograph taken in front of the fountain, so it is worth going early if you can. It is one of those fairytale places in Europe that makes you feel like you are a character in Beauty and the Beast.
7. Play or Watch a Game of Pétanque
Saint Paul de Vence is famous for its pétanque games, especially near the Café de la Place. Watching locals play is as much a part of the experience as visiting the galleries.
8. Enjoy the Views
Make time to pause at the viewpoints around the ramparts. The surrounding vineyards, olive groves, and rolling hills look different depending on the light and time of day. At sunset, the views are breathtaking.
9. Shop at La Maison Godet Parfum
La Maison Godet Parfum is a family-run perfume house that has been creating fragrances since 1901. Visiting their boutique in Saint Paul de Vence is a sensory delight, where you can discover unique scents inspired by Provence and even purchase a bottle as a special souvenir. It is a wonderful way to bring home a memory of your time in the village.
Where to Eat in Saint Paul de Vence
Food in Saint Paul de Vence is an experience in itself. The village offers a mix of fine dining and cosy bistros.
- La Colombe d’Or: This legendary restaurant has hosted countless famous names, from Picasso to Yves Montand. The food is excellent, but the real highlight is the art collection on the walls, donated by artists who dined here. You will need to make a reservation here well in advance. If you are there on the spur of the moment you can phone at 10am for a lunch sitting or 6pm for a dinner sitting as they hold tables for overnight guests who may not use them. It is the only chance of getting a table without a reservation.
- Café de la Place: A lively spot to enjoy lunch or an aperitif while watching pétanque games. The atmosphere is casual and quintessentially French.
- Le Tilleul: Perfect for a relaxed meal, this restaurant has a terrace shaded by lime trees and serves seasonal Provençal dishes. Make sure that you try the veal or entrecote steak. The staff are also incredibly lovely here.
- The Ramparts: Dining in The Ramparts in Saint Paul de Vence is an experience in itself, with sweeping views over the Provençal countryside adding something truly special to the meal. One of the standout dishes is the Argentinian steak, perfectly cooked and full of flavour, which pairs beautifully with a glass of local red wine. Eating here lets you savour not just the food but also the timeless atmosphere of the village, as the sun dips behind the hills and the stone walls glow in the evening light.
- Dolce Italia: A small ice cream shop with an extensive selection of flavours. Make sure that you try the lavender ice cream.
We recommend booking in advance for dinner, especially in high season.
Staying in a Fairytale Cottage: La Miette
One of the highlights of our trip was staying in La Miette, a fairytale stone cottage tucked within the walls of Saint Paul de Vence. Once the home of the poet Jacques Prévert, this charming hideaway feels steeped in history and creativity. Waking up here and stepping outside into the quiet morning streets was unforgettable.
La Miette is beautifully restored yet still retains its rustic charm. We loved curling up with a book in the cosy living space and enjoying a glass of wine in the evenings. For us, staying here was much more than accommodation. It felt like stepping into the village’s story and living it for ourselves.
A Day in Saint Paul de Vence: Our Experience
We spent several days in Saint Paul de Vence, and each one unfolded differently. One morning, Ronan had work to do, so I set off to explore the town solo. I wandered into small galleries, chatted with local artists, and spent time capturing photographs of the narrow streets bathed in golden light. Later in the afternoon, I returned to La Miette, where the cool stone walls and the peace of the cottage offered the perfect place to read and unwind.
Together, we strolled the ramparts at sunset, sharing a bottle of wine and simply soaking in the atmosphere. These are the kinds of moments that make Saint Paul de Vence so special. It is not about rushing to tick off a list of sights but about letting the village reveal itself slowly.
Day Trips from Saint Paul de Vence
If you have more time, Saint Paul de Vence makes a great base for exploring the region.
- Nice: Just 40 minutes away, you can enjoy the Promenade des Anglais, the markets, and the old town.
- Antibes: Known for its sandy beaches and Picasso Museum.
- Èze: Another perched village with incredible views and a stunning exotic garden.
- Cagnes-sur-Mer: A seaside town nearby, with a medieval old town and the Grimaldi Castle.
- Monaco: If you fancy ticking another country off your travel bucket list then Monaco is about an hour away by train.
Travel Tips for Visiting Saint Paul de Vence
- Wear comfortable shoes. The cobbled streets can be uneven.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds.
- Bring cash, as some smaller shops and galleries may not accept cards.
- If you are staying overnight, enjoy the peace once the day-trippers leave.
- Allow time for spontaneous moments. The magic of Saint Paul de Vence often lies in what you did not plan.
Conclusion: Why Saint Paul de Vence Stays With You
Saint Paul de Vence is not just another stop on the French Riviera. It is a place that invites you to slow down, to notice details, and to connect with the creativity and history that fills its streets. For us, staying in La Miette, walking hand in hand along the ramparts, and sharing meals in local cafés felt like being part of a timeless story.
We understand why artists and poets have been drawn here for so long. It sparks imagination, it soothes, and it stays with you. As two-time nominees for Top Travel Creators in Ireland and recognised as Top Ten Travel Influencers by readers of the Irish Independent, we have been fortunate to visit many extraordinary places. Yet Saint Paul de Vence stands out for its beauty and soul.
If you are planning a trip to the South of France, put Saint Paul de Vence at the top of your list. Whether you spend a day or a few nights in the village, it will leave a lasting impression.
We would love to hear if you have visited Saint Paul de Vence or if it is now on your travel wish list. Share your thoughts with us, and let us know if our guide has helped you plan your trip.
We are Nicola and Ronan Lavin experts in finding unique accommodation all over the world. Voted as the Top 6 Travel Bloggers in Ireland by Stellar Magazine and the Top 10 Travel Influencers in Ireland by readers of the Irish Independent, we are dedicated to helping you find authentic and immersive travel experiences to help you plan your perfect vacation.
We’ve spent years exploring Ireland and have a real passion for finding the most unique places to stay — from dreamy luxury cabins tucked away in the woods to boutique hotels with a story to tell. We’re drawn to places that feel personal, thoughtful, and full of character. It’s not just about pretty interiors (although we do love those too), it’s about the feeling a space gives you. Somewhere that lets you switch off, reconnect, and make memories. That’s what we always look for, and it’s what we love sharing with you. We’re currently putting the finishing touches on a brand new guide featuring hundreds of the most unique places to stay and luxury hotels across Ireland. If you’re planning a romantic break, a wellness retreat, or just a cosy weekend away, this guide will be packed with inspiration. Sign up to our email list to be the first to hear when it launches — trust us, you won’t want to miss it.
*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, meaning that if you book through one of our links, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us create the wonderful, free travel guides that we do.**
Are you new here? Join thousands of other happy readers and subscribe to All About RosaLilla blog via email. The good news is that by signing up via email you will get exclusive travel deals straight to your inbox. The only other place that we publish these deals is on Instagram stories, so be sure to signup to get the heads up on amazing travel deals to save you money when booking.
We also share everything about ourselves on Instagram with nothing held back, so be sure to follow along there.
If you liked this, you may also like:
Why you need to visit Carcassonne
Where to Stay in Bordeaux City Centre
A Perfect Day in Heidelberg: Your Ultimate 1-Day Itinerary
Discovering the Fairytale Towns of Erbach and Michelstadt in the Odenwald
Until next time, you crazy kids!
