The South of France is an excellent destination when travelling with the family. It's a scenic region offering everything you seek for a holiday, from sumptuous local cuisines to luxurious family hotels, several kilometres of sparkling coastline, and the best weather in France.
Whether you're a family of history and culture lovers or want to lounge around and play in the sea all day, the South of France will make your family holiday unforgettable. If you need help planning your trip, here's a guide to family holidays in the South of France.
The Best Time to Visit the South of France
The best time to visit the South of France is summer, particularly in August. But being the peak season, you can expect a crowd of tourists at this time of the year. The first three weeks of August are the busiest, as people from the northern part of the country join international visitors seeking to enjoy the South of France's hot and sunny weather. Also, kids are off school for summer break, and families are taking advantage of this to go on vacation.
If you want to avoid the crowd, your best bet is to visit in the third week of August. During this time, families with kids will start going home for the start of the school year in September. In addition, workers and businesses will be getting ready for the start of the new season, while retired and off-season travellers will not arrive until a bit later.
One of the reasons that August is the best time to visit the South of France is that it has fantastic weather, with warm temperatures, clear skies, and a delightful Mediterranean breeze, creating the ideal conditions for enjoying the region's picturesque landscapes, but more importantly, it is the ideal weather for spending lazy days at the beach.
What to See in the South of France
With the numerous things to see and do in the South of France, you can guarantee an incredible holiday with the family. While you cannot see everything in one visit, here are some of the highlights:
Montpellier Zoo - if your kids are into wildlife, visit the Montpellier Zoological Park, an 80-hectare park home to over 500 animals and thousands of plants. It also has an incredible Amazon rainforest section that your kids will enjoy exploring.
Fortified City of Carcassonne - those who want to explore the rich history of Southern France should visit the fortified city of Carcassonne. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was established several centuries ago and is now one of the region's most famous tourist attractions.
Pont du Gard - this ancient Roman aqueduct bridge dates back to the first century AD and used to transport water over 50 km to the Roman colony of Nemausus. Nowadays, it's a popular area for picnics, where kids can swim on the river under the bridge.
Lavender Fields - the lavender fields of Provence are a must-see for everyone visiting the South of France. Your kids will have a blast running around the fields and getting their photos taken.
Where to Stay in the South of France
Looking for the best places to stay in the South of France is easy, given the numerous accommodation options available for families. You will find plenty of incredible villa rentals in the South of France and other destinations worth exploring with your kids. Staying in villa rentals is perfect for families since it has more space and offers the comforts and amenities of a home.
With plenty of fantastic areas to base yourself on your holiday, you might need help deciding where to stay. Here are some great options:
Provence - renowned for its scenic lavender fields, picturesque villages, and stunning countryside, Provence is an ideal base for a family holiday in the South of France.
St Tropez - families seeking to indulge in luxurious experiences on their holiday should consider staying in the glamorous town of St Tropez. It's home to a lovely port, which makes it an ideal base for exploring the region on a yacht.
French Riviera - with its sweeping bays and stunning beaches, it's easy to see why the French Riviera is a popular place for visitors to the South of France.
Cannes - associated with the famous annual film festival, Cannes is a fantastic place for families looking to enjoy a beach getaway in France.
The Best Activities for Families in the South of France
When planning a family trip to the South of France, it's best to come up with a list of things to do with the kids. There are numerous options, but here are some activities your kids will love.
Cycling in Canal du Midi - Canal du Midi is a 240-km-long canal that makes a great day out with kids, especially those fond of outdoor adventures, such as cycling by the canal.
Rock climbing or hiking in Les Calanques National Park - Les Calanques National Park is the best place for adventurous families who want to spend time in nature. The stunning nature park is just outside Marseille. It's a perfect spot for hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, and swimming.
Sightseeing in Marseille - if you only have time to visit one city, choose Marseille. It's a vibrant port city with a unique mix of culture and history. Take your kids on a scenic stroll by the waterfront and stop by the bustling markets and cafes for snacks.
Cruising in Cote d'Azur - you'll find many fantastic boat trips in the South of France, from day trips to multi-day cruises. Some of the most popular destinations are Nice, Cannes, and Monaco.
What to Pack for a Trip to the South of France
When packing for a trip to the South of France, it's important to consider both style and comfort. Consider including light, breathable clothing appropriate for the Mediterranean environment. Pack suitable walking shoes for visiting the beautiful cobblestone streets and coastal promenades. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are essential given the region's sunny weather. A swimsuit is also a must to enjoy the stunning beaches. Include a semi-formal dress if you intend to visit historic sites or dine at luxury restaurants.
Finally, for cooler evenings, add a flexible jacket or jumper. Keep travel documents, adapters, and a camera on hand to record the amazing beauty of this appealing destination. Before you get too excited about your family holiday, refer to this tick list to guide you in what to pack for a trip to the South of France:
Shorts
T-shirts
Dresses
Evening jacket
Swimwear
Sleepwear
Pyjamas
Handbag
Towels
Goggles
Sandals
Flipflops
Trainers
First Aid Kit
Medicines
Washbag
Toiletries
