Saint Paul De Vence

Discover the beauty of hilltop Saint Paul de Vence, whose medieval walls enclose a village of atmospheric streets, architectural gems and irresistible shops.

After departing from the pier, you will soon drive inland where the landscape becomes wonderfully pastoral. On the approach to Saint-Paul-de-Vence, you will see the village atop a spur of land between two deep valleys, where it has perched since medieval times. It is easy to imagine the village during that period, as its 13th-century ramparts are still intact.

You will enter Saint-Paul-de-Vence through the main gate and then commence your guided walking tour through the winding pedestrian-only streets. Because there are no vehicles, it’s a pleasure to get around and you can’t help but delight in the lovely churches, shaded squares and fortified towers.

You may even see the French game of pétanque or lawn bowling being played beneath a plane tree. The setting has long inspired artists, especially in the 1920s when Signac, Modigliani and Bonnard painted here.

Following your guided walking tour of the walled city, you will enjoy time to explore on your own. The Great Fountain Square is an excellent starting point, from which you can easily reach the grand Collegiate Church, whose construction stretched from the 14th to 18th centuries.

You might also browse the galleries, where work from many local artisans is displayed. There are also plenty of other shopping opportunities for merchandise that varies from French fashions to confections. Following your free time, you will travel back to Villefranche.