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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.

Southern France during World War II

France During World War II

The Nazi army began their invasion of France in May 1940. And on June 22, 1940, the French signed the Franco-German Armistice, which put more than half of France under Nazi control, according to History.com. That year, the French established the Vichy regime, which was located in central France. Although under French rule and technically neutral, Vichy collaborated with the Nazis and implemented anti-Semitic policies, according to the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. It wasn’t until June 6, 1944, the Allied armies stormed the beaches of Normandy on its famed D-Day. The Allied forces arrived in southern France in August 1944.

Visiting WWII Historical Landmarks in Southern France

_{Credit: Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons}

From the medieval period to the reign of Louis XIV, France’s history makes it a major travel destination. And its history during World War II is no different. History buffs will appreciate traveling to Normandy to learn about the war. But this war touched every corner of France, not just Normandy. If you’re interested in discovering this war’s history and the Resistance movement in southern France, here are some excursions to explore.

Hôtel Caumont

Located in the luxe town of Aix-en-Provence sits Hôtel Caumont. Today this building is an art center with various exhibitions as well as a permanent exposition on Paul Cézanne. Long before it opened to the public, Hôtel Caumont was built as a private residence in the early 1700s. As you pass in front of Hôtel Caumont, you might just miss it: a small plaque that reads “Hélène Ardevol 1892-1976.” Underneath her name, it reads in French: “Brave mother who lodged numerous Resistants here.” At the time, the building was composed of several apartments, where Ardevol worked as the concierge. Along with her family, this building superintendent used the premises to hide Resistance fighters where the art center’s ticket office stands today, per La Provence.

We’ll set up a private tour of the art center where you’ll not only admire the art but also the bravery of those who fought in the Resistance.

Landing of Provence WWII and Memorial Day

Just as you can visit the Normandy beaches where Allied forces invaded, you can also visit the Mediterranean beaches where they arrived, too. On August 15, 1944, the Allied forces carried out Operation “Dragoon” to free France. We’ll set up a full-day tour for you to explore the history of the Provence landings. On this private tour, you’ll be able to learn more about this important event and see history with your own eyes.

Take a Walking Tour in Le Panier Neighborhood

Stroll through Le Panier neighborhood today, and you’ll notice plenty: walls of intricate graffiti, winding pedestrian paths, hole-in-the-wall bars serving up pastis. It might just seem like Marseille’s edgy, historic neighborhood, but this area has strong ties with World War II. Long ago, the Nazis labeled this neighborhood as “Europe’s eyesore,” according to Radio France. In January 1943, French police and the Nazis conducted a major roundup of Vieux Port and Le Panier. One week after this roundup of 20,000 people, the Nazis bombed Le Panier for “the purification of Marseille,” in the words of SS General Carl Oberg.

Since this period, life has returned to this resilient neighborhood. Le Panier has become a popular tourist spot for its historical roots, proximity to Vieux Port and eclecticism. We’ll set up a walking tour of this historic neighborhood, which dates back to 600 B.C.

Camp des Milles

Based on a true story, the Netflix series Transatlantic recounts the history of the Emergency Rescue Committee, led by American journalist Varian Fry, in Marseille. This committee’s purpose was “to rescue Europe’s celebrated artists, writers, and intellectuals who had fled to the country, many of whom were on the Nazis’ most wanted list,” according to the International Rescue Committee. Along with his team, Fry helped at least 1500 refugees flee France, including Max Ernst and Marc Chagall.

Some of the people that the ERC sought to help were held at the Camp des Milles, an internment camp just outside of Aix-en-Provence.

During World War II, this former tile factory became a holding spot for different groups. Before Nazi occupation in France, the internment camp was for “enemy subjects,” according to the camp’s site. From July 1940 to July 1942, Camp des Milles was used for transit and as a detention center for those deemed “undesirable.” And from August to September 1942, around 10,000 people were interned here — of which 2,000 Jews were deported to Auschwitz from the Camp des Milles.

Today you can visit the Camp des Milles and learn about the history of this internment site as well as the brave people who resisted against the Nazis and who fought to protect those targeted.

World War II had great impact on the country of France. Although not the brightest period of French history, these stories play a major role in Europe’s past. With French Side Travel, we can set up a tailor-made trip for you to learn about southern France’s World War II history as well as the those who fought bravely in the Resistance.

Where to Stay in Southern France

Château de Valmer
Escape to this five-star hotel located in the Saint Tropez peninsula where you enjoy Mediterranean Sea and vineyard views. In 1949, the current owners’ parents purchased this old mansion and turned it into a family guest house. Today, Château de Valmer offers cozy Provençal rooms and even treehouses where you can unwind. Enjoy a meal at la Palmeraie as you nosh on Michelin-starred chef Alexandre Fabris’ craft. Relish in relaxation at the hotel’s adults-only pool or its luxury spa.

La Pinède Plage
Located in the Saint Tropez peninsula, this four-star hotel is just steps away from the beach. Enjoy a grasse matinée in one of its king-sized beds before enjoying your coffee on its private terrace with sea views. Enjoy some freshly caught fish at La Pinède Plage’s beach restaurant. Take a dip in the pool overlooking the Mediterranean or spend the afternoon at this hotel’s private beach. Give yourself some much-needed TLC with its spa access or a trip to its Finnish-style sauna and steam room.

The country of France has quite the history to be explored. Take a look at some of our history-focused tours: Exclusive Trip to Normandy and Highlights, History, and Culture of Paris, Normandy, and Loire Valley. Need some help planning your trip?

Speak with an Expert Today

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 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.

Best Luxury Hotels in Provence

How to Get to Provence

The best way to get to the heart of Provence is by flying to the Marseille airport. From there, our driver can pick you up and take you to the Provençal village of your dreams. The TGV, or high-speed train, also has direct lines from Paris to Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Marseille. These towns are all great launch points as you discover this rich region.

Hotel Villa La Coste in Le Puy-Sainte-Réparade

Calling all wine lovers and art aficionados. Hotel Villa La Coste is a luxury hotel in Provence boasting five stars and 28 villa suites. You could spend hours wandering this luxury hotel grounds with its spa, library, vineyard, bar and restaurants. The hotel is situated in the Château La Coste domain, which also boasts various art exhibitions. We’re sure you’ll be tempted by its Pool Villa Suite, complete with a private patio and pool.

As glamorous as the hotel rooms are, you’ll still be itching to explore the rest of this property. This luxury hotel also offers an art and architecture tour and wine tasting during your stay. Indulge in some TLC at the property’s spa with a rose, poppy seed and lavender body scrub or a pink mud wrap. We’ll book a table for you at the property’s restaurant led by Michelin-starred chef Hélène Darroze. Her menu will have you feasting on local produce and products such as goat cheese, Camargue rice, and stuffed zucchini.

Private meal in the middle of a vineyard

France may offer some of the most exquisite restaurants in the world, but sometimes it’s the simple moments we remember most. We’ll organize a private lunch or dinner in the heart of Provençal vineyard. We’ll take care of the table, menu, and chef; simply show up and bask in the moment.

Hotel La Mirande in Avignon

Step into another era at Hotel La Mirande, a 5-star hotel fit for a queen and king. Its 26 rooms are tastefully decorated with cotton prints and each has their own name. From La Rivière Enchantée (enchanted river) to Les Oeillets (carnations), you will be enamored with both the names and the loveliness of these rooms.

Explore the hotel’s intimate garden, which is home to a wide array of plants and herbs picked by its chefs. The hotel also has its own cooking school where guests can book sessions to learn alongside decorated chefs. Try your hand at the pavlova pastry or perhaps sauteed, oriental-spiced squid.

If you’d rather leave the cooking to the professionals, Hotel La Mirande will not disappoint. We’d be happy to book you a table at La Mirande’s Michelin-starred restaurant. Nosh on Chef Florent Pietravalle’s latest creations from black pear to meat paired with a rye-bread crust. Not only is this hotel rich with its cuisine but also its history. In the 1300s, the popes came to dine in the oldest room of this hotel.

Baumanière in Les Baux-de-Provence

Venture into the idyllic Provençal countryside with a stay at Baumanière. This five-star hotel is nestled in Les Baux de Provence, a village named one of the most beautiful in France. Its 53 rooms have been tastefully and uniquely decorated and feature pieces from nearby villages such as Isle-sur-la-Sorgue.

A stay at the Baumanière would be incomplete without a reservation at L’Oustau de Baumanière. With a decorated history since 1945, this restaurant boasts three Michelin stars and is led by Chef Glenn Viel. You’ll also have your choice in their wine selection, with some wines aged 150 years. If you’re interested in the science and culture of wine, you can even take an oenology class complete with a cellar visit and wine tastings, bien sûr.

Wind down at the property’s spa with their Escape to Provence massage with its notes of lavender and olive or perhaps their Hawaiian-inspired Lomi-Lomi massage.

Villa Gallici in Aix-en-Provence

Opt for a luxurious, intimate escape with a stay at Villa Gallici, located in the heart of Provence. No matter your needs or wishes, a stay in one of this boutique hotel’s 23 rooms will be a dream come true. From balconies with garden views to its Baroque-style beds, these rooms are fit for royalty. Lie out on one of its cushy lounge chairs poolside.

During your visit, be sure to visit the villa’s exquisite wine cellar with hundreds of choices. Indulge in a unique dining experience with both French and Italian flavors. You can also relax with a gastronomic lunch and spa package for two with your choice of a body or facial treatment along with time in the sauna, jacuzzi, and cryo cabin. Or perhaps you’re in dire need of a recharge but solo; Villa Gallici also offers lunch and spa packages for one.

Private art gallery tour

Whether you fancy before the gallery’s opening or after its closing, we’ll organize a private tour of an art center in Aix-en-Provence. Your guide will explain the past of this former mansion and exhibitions. Finish your VIP experience with a meal or hors d’oeuvres in one of the center’s salons.

Explore our Destinations

From its renowned vineyards to its history-laden villages, the region of Provence will charm you. With these best luxury hotels in Provence, you’re sure to enjoy your visit to the region in comfort and style.

Itching to book a stay in one of these luxury hotels in Provence? We don’t blame you. And we’re more than happy to organize your stay as well as your visits during your trip to Provence. Be enchanted by A Perfect Cultural and Culinary Stay in the Beautiful Provence, Delights of Provence and our Family Trip to Provence.