Whether it’s strolling down the Cours Mirabeau in Aix-en-Provence or hiking through Marseille’s calanques, southern France offers much to do. The region of Provence is a treasure chest for stunning hikes, village strolls and important monuments. But much of Provence’s charm stems from enjoying its local specialities. From its fragrant lavender fields to tranquil olive groves, the region of Provence offers delights for all five senses. From lavender to wine, we’re rounding up several of the best local specialities from Provence and how you can make sure they’re authentic.
Category : Provence
Uncovering Roman History in Provence
From Marie Antoinette to Napoleon Bonaparte, you may have brushed up on French history. Perhaps you’ve watched Les Misérables and even celebrated Bastille Day. But what happened in France long before Louis XIV ruled, before the Enlightenment took place or before the Eiffel Tower was built? The country we know as France today has been inhabited for thousands of years. And the country is still filled with relics from these ancient periods, particularly from the Roman era. In the region of Provence, many Roman ruins can be explored today. We’re uncovering Roman history in Provence and sharing the best sites you can still visit today.
From Tire to Table: How the Michelin Star was Born
The name Michelin often evokes swanky restaurants, excellent cuisine and star counts. But the history of the Michelin stars goes back more than a century to a pair of brothers who sold tires. So how does a tire company go on to create one of the most prestigious restaurant rating systems? From the tire to the table, we’re explaining the history of Michelin stars as well as our favorite Michelin experiences in France.
French Side Travel’s Client Favorite Destinations in 2023
2023 was an exciting year for French Side Travel as clients experienced each region of France. Our expert travel designers crafted tailor-made trips that focused on history and culture, romance, adventure, gastronomy and more. Read on to discover French Side Travel’s client favorite destinations in 2023.
4 Classic French Foods (And Why the French Eat Them)
From baguettes to macarons, cheeses to pastries, the French are known for their creations in the kitchen. As you wander France, it’s certain that bakery aromas will tempt you at each corner. France boasts more than 600 Michelin-starred restaurants, which will lure you in with its gastronomic menus. But what makes these classic French foods emblematic? For the French, food isn’t simply a means of survival; it’s a reflection of its culture, history and heritage. From croissants to escargots, we’re revisiting four classic French foods and their origins as well as sharing our best culinary experiences.
Southern France during World War II
When thinking about World War II in France, we often imagine the Allied victory on the beaches of Normandy. Perhaps the photos of Hitler and his Nazi army in front of the Eiffel Tower come to mind. History classes often cover the Second World War’s events in Paris and on D-Day, or Jour J in French. This historically significant event proved to be the largest ever naval, air and land operation at the time, according to the History Channel. But beyond Paris and Normandy, what about the rest of France during World War II? It’s true that northern France has much to be explored in terms of World War II history, but don’t overlook southern France. Here are some important World War II landmarks to visit in southern France.
Best Luxury Hotels in Provence
From its fragrant lavender fields to its rolling vineyards, the region of Provence promises blissful moments. This area in southern France makes the ideal destination for its ample sunshine, idyllic villages and landscape diversity. Provence also boasts of stunning hotels and accommodations. At French Side Travel, we’d be happy to organize a stay at these hotels and throw in some special perks and benefits. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite luxury hotels in Provence for their convenience, amenities and jaw-dropping views.
Paris to Provence: The Perfect Week Itinerary
From the glittering Eiffel Tower to its world-renowned art museums, Michelin-starred restaurants to its history-laden streets, Paris is iconic. But the reality is that France’s capital doesn’t represent the entire country. Only several hours away by train, southern France boasts endless sunshine, stunning beaches and bustling nightlife. The areas of Paris and Provence vary immensely, but visiting both on your trip to France shows you some of the best patrimoine, or cultural heritage, the country has to offer. The journey from Paris to Provence is fairly simple. At French Side Travel, we’re sharing our perfect week itinerary from Paris to Provence.
A Weekend Getaway to Provence
Provence is a favorite French destination for numerous reasons including its mild climate, picturesque villages and unique foods and wines. Thanks to high speed trains from Paris, it’s possible to add on a weekend getaway to Provence to virtually any trip.
France by Bike
In the past, discovering France by bike used to be reserved for the adventurous. Now, with the rising popularity of e-bikes, it’s possible for almost anyone to enjoy biking in France, families included. Read on to discover the best ways to experience the gorgeous scenery and culture in France by bike.