Holiday homes & rentals in the South of France

The South of France offers beautifully diverse scenery, historic cities and stunning beaches. You can relax on the shores of the French Riviera, dine in world class restaurants and shop in the plentiful boutiques. With a South of France holiday villa you can soak up the sun in Marseille, sample delicious wines in Bordeaux or head for the slopes to show off your ski skills.

Getting to your accommodation in the South of France

There are two major airports which serve the South of France; Montpellier and Nice. They can be reached by a number of European and intercontinental flights. For passengers arriving in Montpellier, there is a shuttle bus which takes 30 minutes to reach the town centre, while Nice airport offers both a shuttle and a very cheap local bus service. Toulouse and Bordeaux airports are ideally located if you're planning on booking a holiday home in the South of France that's located further inland.

Nice is also well connected to the French railway system. There are daily trains to Paris, taking approximately six hours. Most regions in Southern France are connected by an intercity bus. However, if you want to travel to more remote regions or move at your own pace then hiring a car is advised.

Weather and climate in the South of France

The climate in Southern France varies wildly depending on the season and location. Low lying destinations such as Montpellier, Toulouse, Bordeaux and Nice enjoy warm, dry summers while winter can see temperatures drop and occasionally bring snow.

This region is also home to the French Alps and Pyrenees. Winter brings the much-needed snow to the delight of winter sports lovers and summer will see temperatures climb, though it will be noticeably cooler than the cities and beaches.

What to see and do in the South of France

There are endless things to see with a holiday villa in the South of France. In the winter, skiing is the predominant reason for visitors to the region. Alpe d'Huez and La Clusaz are just some of the resorts where you can partake in winter sports and enjoy an après ski with panoramic views.

The port city of Marseille has a laid back feel and this is reflected in its quaint but beautiful attractions. Spend an afternoon down at the old port (Vieux Port), be in awe at the Notre Dame de la Garde and stroll down the Boulevard Longchamp, to explore the classic French architecture. Nice also boasts the boulevard Colline du Chateau, which offers great views of the city and includes several museums including the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.

For those with a holiday villa located a little further west, Toulouse and Bordeaux are rich in culture, history, and attractions. The Capitole de Toulouse, which currently serves as the town hall and a theatre, is an architectural marvel situated in a square of the same name. Basilique St. Sernin is a pretty restored church for those interested in ecclesiastical buildings.

A holiday villa near Bordeaux will not disappoint. Known for its wine and vineyards, the region is an excellent getaway. For wine, Château Haut-Brion, Château Lafite Rothschild, and Château Cheval Blanc are some of the most notable. Other attractions in Bordeaux include the Aquitaine Bridge, Musee D'Art Contemporain (Museum of Contemporary Art) and Victory Arch.

Food in the South of France: eating out in Toulouse and Marseille

Like much of France, Toulouse is famed for its cuisine. Some local specialities include Toulouse sausage, duck and a bean stew called Cassoulet. For fine dining head to Michel Sarran or Le Pyreneen. However, you don’t have to break the bank to eat well when you book a holiday villa in the South of France. Mezzo Di Pasta and Rue Pargaminière are just two of the many delicious budget eateries on offer. A good tip for those keeping an eye on their spending is to head out for lunch, as most establishments offer two or three-course set menus at a fraction of the cost you’ll pay in the evening.

Marseille has a distinct focus on seafood given its coastal location. La Bouillabaisse de Marseille is the region’s most famous dish. The fish based soup is best enjoyed at mid-range to high-end restaurants including Chez Fonfon and Chez Toinou.

Famed for its wine, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Southern France. It’s always a safe bet to go local. White wine drinkers should try Picpoul-de-Pinet and if you enjoy a glass of red, opt for a Chateauneuf du Pape.

Touring the South of France

Notre-Dame de la Garde

The cathedral of Notre-Dame de la Garde is a quintessential symbol of Marseille. Built at the city's highest point, it offers spectacular views along the coast, whilst the neo-Byzantine interior is a pleasure to explore.

Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations

Opened in 2013, this museum's permanent collection charts the history of people from across the Mediterranean, from ancient times to the modern day.

B000591-1: Pope's Palace

The Pope's Palace in Avignon is one of the most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. Take a guided tour of the enormous building to gain a deeper understanding of its history.

Promenade des Anglais

Nice's beachfront promenade is one of Europe's most famous and is the place to see and be seen, with spectacular sea views, chic cafés and traditional bars.

Place de la Comedie

Montpellier's central square features some of the best of French architecture and fountains. Drink it all in from an open-air café.

Frequently Asked Questions