Tips For Visiting The South Of France With Kids

A young girl and her dad stand together with a rooftop view of Bonnieux behind them.
Photo Courtesy: Gunjan Prakash

Families planning a trip to the south of France with kids will want to read these tips before they go! From how to get around without a car to where to find the best beaches, we’ve got you covered with essential advice to make your trip go smoothly. The French Riviera has more coastline and better beaches, while Provence boasts more interesting Roman ruins and more picturesque countryside. Whether your kids are into history and culture, or they just want to splash around in the sea all day, the south of France is incredibly kid-friendly regardless of location. If you need help deciding, this article covers the difference between these two places, plus some important tips for visiting with kids and the best towns for families. Keep reading for our list of the Best Tips For Visiting The South of France With Kids!

Provence vs the French Riviera for Families

A family of four stands together smiling in a filed of French lavender in Valensole, knowing where it visit is one of our tips for visiting the south of France with kids.
Photo Courtesy: Alexa Crawford McGraw

One of the biggest tips for visiting the south of France for families is to understand the difference between Provence and The French Riviera. You’re probably wondering: which is best for families? It may surprise you to know that the two regions are actually quite distinct in terms of geography and climate. Provence, which is located in the southeast of France, has hot, dry summers. The French Riviera offers a milder, Mediterranean climate. Still, both feature some of the best towns to visit in the south of France with kids this summer!

Families who want to enjoy the outdoors and the charms of French rural life may prefer Provence. With its majestic mountains and lush lavender fields, there are lots of activities and attractions to entertain your kids. Try anything from hiking to cycling, swimming, kayaking, and so much more! If you’d rather relax on the beach and enjoy the stunning scenery, The French Riviera may be the perfect place for your next European adventure. Either way, both regions offer something for everyone and are wonderful choices for a family holiday in the south of France.

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General Tips for Vacationing in the South of France with Kids

A young girl meanders down a charming road in Eze.
Photo Courtesy: Gunjan Prakash

When it comes to family holidays in France, the south of the country is a popular destination. There are many excellent reasons to vacation in this region with your kids. A few reasons include the beautiful weather, stunning scenery, and great food. Keep reading for more tips on visiting the south of France with your kids!

Here are some tips to make the most of your family trip to the South of France:

  • Choose your accommodation carefully. There are many different types of accommodation available in the south of France. Families can choose from camping and caravanning sites to villas and apartments. Many local companies also offer vacation rentals. 
  • Make use of the local facilities. Most towns and villages in the south of France have excellent facilities for families. Generally, this includes playgrounds, swimming pools, and sports facilities. If you’re staying in self-catering accommodations, take advantage of these facilities to save money on entertainment for your kids.
  • Plan your days carefully. With so much to see and do in the south of France, it’s important to plan your days carefully so that you make the most of your time. If you’re visiting during the summer months, consider taking a day trip to one of the many beaches.
  • Make sure to make dinner reservations before you go on your trip. Not all restaurants are kid-friendly.
  • The ideal time for family holidays in the South of France is mid-April to October. It’s important to note that the summer months can be hot. Finally, be aware that August is the busiest month.

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Tips for Vacationing on the French Riviera with Kids

Large boats rest along a dock with colorful buildings in the background along the shore of Cassis, visiting here is one of our tips for visiting the south of France with kids.

In case you need tips for visiting the French Riviera with kids, we’ve got you covered! Whether you want to relax on the beach, enjoy a cultural attraction, or do a bit of both, there are some things you should know before embarking on your adventure. Stay tuned for our biggest tips for visiting the French Riviera as a family!

Here are our top tips for vacationing on the French Riviera with kids:

  • A lot of families start their vacation in Nice, the perfect place to enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle. Since the city is very kid-friendly, it’s often a popular home base for families who want to explore the French Riviera. Antibes, a town between Nice and Cannes, is famous for its lovely beaches and makes a wonderful home base for exploring. 
  • Getting around the French Riviera by car is super easy. But if you don’t want to rent a car and save yourself the hassle, most towns and cities are accessible via a reliable public rail system. It’s very safe and easy to navigate with children. 
  • Beaches throughout the French Riviera are usually rocky, so make sure to pack water shoes and floaties. Make sure to pack sunscreen as well.
  • If you have extra time, plan a day trip to Monaco, one of the smallest countries in the world. Monaco is known for its glamour and luxury. Plus, there’s plenty to see and do here too. From visiting the Prince’s Palace to gambling in the world-famous Casino de Monte-Carlo, there are plenty of fun things to fill your itinerary.

Best Towns in the French Riviera for a Family Vacation

The colorful buildings of Menton flank the ocean in the French Riviera.

You may also be wondering where to plan a family holiday on the French Riviera. Certainly, one of the best tips for visiting the south of France with kids is knowing where to visit! Live a laidback Mediterranean life like the locals at one of the many scenic seaside towns dotting the coast. Families love everything from the famous Nice to lesser-known options like Cassis. Here are just a few of our favorite enchanting towns to visit along the French Riviera. Then, find the rest of our suggestions in our article featuring the 20 Charming Towns and Villages To Visit In The South of France With Kids This Summer!

Towns on the French Riviera to Consider for a Family Vacation:

  • Menton is a great place to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sun as a family! Located on the French Riviera, this picturesque town showcases a balmy Mediterranean climate and stunning views of the sea. It also has plenty to offer families, from its beautiful beaches to its exciting attractions and lively pedestrian zone with plenty of shops and restaurants. 
  • Nice is one of the most famous destinations on the French Riviera. Certainly, it’s well-known for its stunning beaches, lovely weather, and great food. Plus, the mild Mediterranean weather also makes it a perfect place for all your family’s favorite outdoor activities, sightseeing, and adventures. From winding promenades to elaborate fountains, there are plenty of activities and attractions for families here.
  • Èze provides families with a low-key escape to the French Riviera. Located on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean, this quaint medieval village is a perfect place to escape the crowds of nearby Cannes or Nice. With outdoor activities, historical attractions, and several restaurants and cafes that are perfect for grabbing a bite, it’s no wonder this is one of the best cute towns to visit in the south of France with kids this summer! 
  • Cassis is a small fishing village known for its beautiful Mediterranean setting and its lovely beaches. It’s also a great place to visit with kids during the summer due to its many kid-friendly attractions and activities. Older kids will love can also go canoeing or windsurfing, while tiny travelers can find several playgrounds to play at.
  • Porquerolles offers a unique family vacation since it’s located on an island! Plus, this town provides beautiful beaches, quaint shops, and amazing views. The island is also home to several different types of wildlife, making it a great place to explore with kids.
  • Find more top destinations in the French Riviera with kids in our article featuring 20 Charming Towns and Villages To Visit In The South of France With Kids This Summer!

Planning an extended France itinerary? Read our list of Fantastic Things To Do In Paris With Young Kids!

Tips for Vacationing in Provence with Kids

Left Image: A mom and her young kids stand in a lavender field near Gordes. Right Image: A family stands together with a view of the ocean near Gordes in the didstance.
Photo Courtesy: Alexa Crawford McGraw

There are many reasons why Provence makes an excellent destination for a family vacation. For starters, the region is renowned for its beautiful scenery, rich history and culture, and relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. There are also many things to do and see in Provence with kids, perfect for taking your family on an unforgettable adventure!

Here are a few tips on how to make the most of your Provence vacation with your kids:

  • Be sure to rent a car. Most villages are remote, rural, or only accessible by car. Driving will make exploring much easier with kids. However, also remember that driving through hilltop villages in Provence can be tricky due to narrow roads. 
  • Remember to take plenty of photos to capture the region’s stunning natural beauty. Provence is home to some of France’s most breathtaking landscapes. From the lavender fields of Valensole to the rugged cliffs of the Calanques National Park, there is plenty for nature lovers of all ages to explore. 
  • As you make your way through Provence, stop and admire the various lavender fields on your drive. Since lavender is in abundance throughout the region, you’ll also find lots of lavender-flavored items to try, like ice cream. 
  • In addition to larger cities such as Avignon, add some smaller, off-the-beaten-path locations to your itinerary, such as Sault, Bonnieux, and Gordes. Wander through the streets, explore the local markets, and soak up the atmosphere.
  • Keep in mind that most Provence villages aren’t stroller-friendly due to their narrow, cobblestone streets. They may not be the best option for exploring with very young children.

Best Towns in Provence for a Family Vacation

Lavender fields in Sault, with the city rising along the hill in the distance, visiting here is one of our tips for visiting the south of France with kids

Now that you know some of the best tips for visiting the south of France with kids, it is time to add some of the best cities in Provence to your family itinerary. From larger cosmopolitan centers such as Avignon to tiny charming towns like Bonnieux, here are some of the best towns to visit in Provence with kids. To learn more, make sure you read the full list in our article featuring 20 Charming Towns and Villages To Visit In The South of France With Kids This Summer!

Towns in Provence to Consider for a Family Vacation:

  • Aix-en-Provence is brimming with quaint cafes, local markets, and gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside. This charming city is easily accessible by car from major destinations such as Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. It’s also ideal for exploring in the summertime
  • Avignon is nestled in the heart of Provence along the Rhone River. This bustling town is known for its medieval architecture, stunning landscapes, and historical landmarks. While Avignon is a great place to visit all year round, it’s especially lovely in the summertime, when the town is filled with flowers.
  • Bonnieux offers a low-key, enchanting town to visit with your family. It is well-known for its picturesque setting and rustic charm. Plus, it’s situated on a hilltop, providing stunning views of the surrounding countryside, which blooms with all kinds of colorful flowers during the spring and summer! 
  • Gordes is known for its winding, cobblestone streets, hilltop panoramas of the Luberon Valley, and historical sites. Summer is also a wonderful time to explore the many parks and playgrounds, visit local markets, and enjoy the endless activities on offer at the village’s tourist office.
  • Sault is located on top of a mountain overlooking the Nesque Valley in Provence, nestled amongst rocks, forests, and lavender fields. From horseback riding and hiking in the stunning countryside to picnicking by crystal-clear rivers, there is no shortage of activities to keep everyone in the family happy! 
  • Discover more cities in Provence for families when you read 20 Charming Towns and Villages To Visit In The South of France With Kids This Summer!

Enjoy a warm-weather getaway to one of these 17 Best Mild Weather European Destinations For A Family Summer Vacation

Happy Travels!

Two kids have lunch with their grandparents on an outdoor table with a view of Menerbes in the distance.
Photo Courtesy: Gunjan Prakash

We hope you liked this list of the Best Tips For Visiting The South Of France With Kids! Whether you’re dreaming of a beach on The French Riviera or a picturesque rural village in Provence, your next European adventure is sure to be a spectacular one. Enjoy the south of France with your kids and don’t forget to keep these essential tips in mind!

READ NEXT: 20 Charming Towns and Villages To Visit In The South of France With Kids This Summer!

*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of this list’s attractions, accommodations, or things to do may be closed. Please ensure availability before making your decision. 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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The Families Love Travel Team has a zest for life and an even bigger passion for globetrotting! Comprised of real-life travel professionals, we work hard behind the scenes to provide dynamic solutions for adventuring with children. Our enthusiastic team understands the challenges that often accompany traveling with kids and is committed to making Families Love Travel an inclusive space to convey these experiences.