South Of France Road Map: The Best Little Map Ever!

The Perfect Birds-Eye View of Southern France

Imagine a map of the South of France that easily connects the dots between some of the most iconic spots in Southern France, giving you a bird’ s-eye view of where these famous towns and coastal favorites lie in relation to each other. What makes this map special is how it showcases the proximity of these well-known destinations, highlighting that the inland beauty of Provence and the stunning western Mediterranean coast are all within a few hours’ drive.

Start at the Center: Arles, Where History Meets Art

The center of this map’s “universe” is Arles, the perfect starting point if you want to immerse yourself in a blend of history, culture, and art. Here, you can touch Roman history, walk in the footsteps of Van Gogh, and marvel at the cutting-edge architecture of the Luma Foundation, designed by Frank Gehry. From Arles, it’s an easy journey to Nîmes, Uzès, Avignon, and Orange—each a town rich in scenic landscapes and ancient history, offering a glimpse into the soul of Provence.

Provence: Where Time Stands Still

As you continue into Provence, the views alone are worth the visit. From the rolling vineyards to the sun-soaked fields of lavender, You’ll experience a charm and unique beauty in each town and village that will convince you that, for that moment, time has stood still.

The Provence Coast: Where the Mountains Meet the Sea

A few hours’ drive south brings you to the Provence coast. The landscape dramatically shifts to rugged cliffs and postcard-perfect bays. With its colorful harbor, Cassis is a perfect blend of coastal beauty and Provençal charm. Bordering the town is the Calanques National Park, a “must-do” outdoor adventure.

The Languedoc Coast: A Different Kind of Coastal Charm

Moving west, the Languedoc coast opens up to you, known for its expansive shorelines and rich history. Towns like Narbonne and Sète, with their history and maritime roots, offer a different vibe from the more glamorous Côte d’Azur, but each has a rich, appealing charm.

Visualizing Your Southern France Adventure

This map isn’t about planning a specific trip but about visualizing how these destinations fit together. It shows how close you are to a new adventure, whether wandering through a Provençal village or sitting by the Sea. The beauty of Southern France lies in its variety, and this map gives you a simple, clear view of how all these incredible places are connected.

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Arles<—

“Most people go to Arles to trace the footsteps of Van Gogh, and that idea intrigues me, but not for this trip. There were other places I wanted to see nearby. So, I spent the morning in Arles visiting a couple of its most critical Roman artifacts: the Arena and the Amphitheatre.”

Nimes <–

Why is Nimes a “must-see” for lovers of Roman history? It’s a city where you can literally see, touch, and experience Roman life in France during the Roman Empire.

Uzès<–

“There are so many things to enjoy seeing on an unforgettable day in Uzès …  like the Medieval Garden, the Fenestrelle Tower, and the Cathedral of Saint Théodorit with its classic French organ. Pull out your camera and capture some fantastic photos that the people and town provide. Narrow, cobblestone streets lined with 12th-century architecture are everywhere.”

Avignon<–

The UNESCO World Heritage–listed Palais des Papes reminds us that Avignon was once the center of the Roman Catholic world. It is definitely worth spending time exploring. The Palais des Papes was the residence of seven successive popes in the 14th century. The Papacy’s control over Avignon ended in 1791 when France claimed the city during the French Revolution.”

Orange <–

“One of the best-preserved theatres from Roman times, the Théâtre Antique was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981. It still has its original stage wall, which is the external wall.”

Gordes <–

“Anyone who knows me well recognizes that I’m “directionally challenged.” Compared to my recent visitor from the States, I’m “Amelia Earhart” — and we know how that worked out.”

L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue <–

“The “Crown Jewel” of Brocantes in France is Easter Weekend in L’ Isle-sur-la-Sorgue!”

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence <–

“I started my quest for Van Gogh’s trail in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence early on a beautiful, sunny morning. Temperatures were in the high 70s, and a light wind was blowing. The towns of Remoulins and Beaucaire were planned stops from Uzès to Saint Rémy.”

Les Baux de Provence <–

“If you haven’t seen a techno-fabulous French light show, you’re in for a treat. The French take lights and action to new dimensions: music, drama, and imagination.”

Aix-en-Provence <–

“One destination that seems to be on everyone’s travel list is Aix-en-Provence. Simply known as “Aix,” the city has everything that makes Provence unique: history, art, fantastic architecture, and charming Provençal markets.”

Narbonne <–

“Like most things the early Romans did right, they chose Narbonne as the capital of their colony in France. Narbonne had a natural harbor and, at that time, direct access to the Mediterranean Sea. The city’s proximity to the Pyrenees Mountains and the Iberian Peninsula made it a crucial point along the land routes connecting Italy to Spain.”

Beziers <–

“Béziers is worth exploring, with its rich history dating back to Roman times. The Cathédrale Saint-Nazaire, perched on a hilltop, offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The Fonserannes Locks are not just a functional part of the canal but a popular tourist attraction, where visitors can watch the intricate process of raising and lowering boats.”

Sete <–

“Discover your favorite beach in the South of France — Sète —  a hidden gem in Occitanie that promises a unique and unforgettable experience. This charming seaport city, often called the “Venice of Languedoc,” is an ideal summer destination for those who enjoy a vacation spot with miles of pristine sandy beaches. This holiday jewel also offers delectable cuisine and a culture steeped in history.”

Aigues-Mortes <–

“There are hardly more historically significant towns in France than Aigues-Mortes. Within the walled city, legends and facts reveal a rich history of conquering heroes and suffering martyrs. Today, the place has become a popular destination for travelers, filled with souvenir shops and sidewalk cafes. Visit with me inside Aigues-Mortes’ walls.”

Les Saintes-Maries-de-la- Mer <–

“What I love about living in France is the opportunity to re-learn history. I never expected French folklore from the Bible. Who knew, for example, that Lazarus and Mary Magdalene ended up in France?”

Marseille <–

“This charming cruise port city, France’s second-largest and oldest, is brimming with history, culture, and an irresistible vibrancy. If you are part of the Olympic crowd or on your own, let me take you on a journey through this magnificent city, sharing my favorite spots, the best food, and a bit of the rich history that makes Marseille so compelling.”

Cassis <–

“Anyone who has seen Paris but hasn’t seen Cassis hasn’t seen anything,” said the Nobel poet Fredric Mistral. When visitors see the stunningly pretty Roman harbor, it’s love at first sight.”

Dream Big, Explore, and Enjoy!

Dream big! Let this map inspire you, whether it’s your first visit or a return journey. Enjoy the trip and all the unforgettable experiences that await you.

*To whoever created this priceless little map. I found it in my photos, and I love it! I’m sharing it with the world!