The charming village of Saint Paul de Vence

As one of the oldest medieval towns on the French Riviera, Saint Paul de Vence really packs a punch. The town is home to both contemporary and modern art galleries, Renaissance churches, and a castle that dates back to the 14th century. Saint Paul de Vence is the ideal destination for a culture-filled vacation in southern France. ​

The collection of museums and monuments aren't the town’s only selling point. Saint Paul de Vence is also home to several boutique shops, quaint cafes, and authentic French restaurants. Whatsmore, getting to Saint Paul de Vence from Nice is quick and cost-effective when traveling with FranceRent. 

Aside from the attractions, Saint Paul's is awash with history. The town sits inside fortification walls that date back to the mid-15th century. The walls remain precisely as they did in the 15th-century and add a layer of intrigue to this pretty little town. 

Things to do in Saint Paul de Vence
The first thing you'll want to do when arriving in the village is to get your bearings. What better way to do so than taking a stroll through the town center? Follow the cobblestoned paths as you explore every street and alleyway on foot. Fun fact: the streets remained bare until 1950 when the Mayor ordered cobbles. The fountain in the town square is a good starting point, and easy to find as music tends to be playing from beneath it.  

Next on your to-see list should be the Grimaldi Castle Museum. This elegant castle dates right back to the 1300s and houses an array of permanent exhibitions. The castle is also the location for a number of concerts throughout the year, so it's worth checking online in advance to see what's on. Similarly, the Chapelle Folon is another impressive building and one that's brimming with local artwork. 

To enjoy a greener side of the town, visit the Musee Renoir. The museum dedicates exhibitions to the work and life of impressionist artist Auguste Renoir, and visitors can explore his former studio. While the museum is fantastic, its the museum's grounds that showcase the beauty of the region. Visitors may explore the three hectares of well-pruned land.  

You're going to want to climb the Ramparts of Saint Paul de Vence for spectacular views out over the surrounding countryside. You’ll also be able to see the distant Meditteranean Sea. The fortification walls have protected Saint Paul's since 1546, and today visitors can explore the bastions while taking in the views. If you're an early riser, then the rampart walls are the ideal spot to watch the sunrise.