Southern France: My Journey Through Timeless Charm and Culture
- Juliet Weller
- May 4
- 4 min read
I fell in love with Southern France.
Stepping into Southern France for the very first time was nothing short of an enchanting revelation.
Aboard a river cruise on the Rhône River last month, each city I visited – from the sunny port of Marseilles to the poetic streets of Arles, the gastronomic haven of Lyon, the centuries-old tapestry of Avignon, the scenic beauty of Tournon and Tain l’Hermitage, and medieval Viviers – carved a unique story in my memory.
Southern France, with its intoxicating blend of history, art, cuisine, and landscapes, captured me.
Here’s a vivid account of my unforgettable journey.
🏙️ Marseilles: The Bold and Beautiful Mediterranean Gateway
Marseilles, France’s oldest city and a melting pot of cultures, welcomed me with vibrant energy and the stunning scenery of its Mediterranean coastline.
Marseilles thrives on contrast – the historic Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica perched high above the city offers panoramic views, while the eclectic neighborhoods pulse with activity.
Both were visible from the window of my hotel room.
I savored bouillabaisse, the traditional fish stew as spirited as the sea itself; I sampled (big samples!) of incredibly smooth and silky chocolate confections made with olive oil (it replaces milk fat); and learned Marseilles' stories of soap-making, it's notorious competition with Paris, and climbed it's steep, narrow alleyways.
This city’s beauty and dynamic spirit are truly unforgettable.
🏛️ Arles: Where Roman Heritage Meets Van Gogh’s Legacy
I wrote about Arles a few weeks ago. But wait, there's more.
The city’s Roman amphitheater, one of the best preserved in France, still hosts concerts and bullfights, easily blending past and present.
Strolling the narrow cobbled streets, it was impossible not to feel Van Gogh’s inspiration; many spots look exactly as they did when he painted “The Café Terrace at Night.”
The city’s vibrant art scene and colorful markets create a perfect harmony of historic charm and artistic flair. Arles is a testament to how history and creativity walk hand in hand.
🌿Viviers: The Quiet Gem of Ancient Architecture
Arriving in the village of Viviers was like entering a serene storybook.
This small town’s charm is rooted in its well-preserved Romanesque and Gothic architecture, with the Saint-Vincent Cathedral standing beautifully atop a majestic rock.
Viviers is a place for slow exploration – historic lanes, cozy cafés, and an ancient wall that once protected the village from marauders and floodwaters alike.
The now-tranquil riverbank inspires a pace of life that invites you to simply be. The quiet, intimate atmosphere makes it a perfect contrast to the livelier cities on this route.
And I enjoyed he most melty, delicious chocolate eclair I have ever eaten.
🍽️ Lyon: The Culinary Capital and Renaissance Jewel
On a drizzly, chilly Saturday morning, I did a fascinating walking tour of Lyon. The Saône and Rhône rivers frame the city, while the dynamic cultural scene keeps it vibrant.
Known as the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon’s bouchons offer an intimate dining experience filled with rich flavors and traditional recipes passed down generations.
Beyond the palate, the city’s Renaissance architecture fascinated me – the old town’s traboules (hidden passageways) were like stepping through time.
They were first built in the 4th century, frequented by workmen and craftsmen to move wares through the city especially inclement weather, and by residents to get to the river for water. Often, they were secret meeting places for the resistance in WWII.
Today, most are private, leading to residences, but many are still available for public use.
My guide's history lesson dating from the arrival of the Romans through WWII to Lyon's current modern skyline satisfied my history hunger.
A delicious lemon tart and hot cup of coffee satisfied my actual hunger and ended the unavoidable rainy-day chill
🏰 Avignon: The City of Popes and Timeless Elegance
Avignon is where history spills from medieval walls and cobbled streets.
The Palais des Papes, a monumental fortress and papal palace, narrates stories of religious power and medieval intrigue.
A guided tour of this building reveals so many secrets that you'll never know just walking through on your own. And you might get lost along the way.
I was in the private chambers of the seven Popes that once resided there, and in their conclave too. Restored frescoes and mosaics, and even some in original conditions are plentiful throughout.
Wandering the Place de l’Horloge, I tasted fine Provençal cuisine under sunny skies while soaking in the lively café culture. The shady central plaza, and trendy shops around it are hard to ignore, or avoid.
The Rhône River adds a calm grace to the cityscape, especially when viewed from the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet (the famous half-bridge).
Avignon’s draw lies in its perfect blend of historical grandeur and relaxed Provençal charm. You can either read about on Wikipedia, or you can go.
🌄 Tournon and Tain l’Hermitage: Wine, Views, and Riverside Serenity (and more chocolate!)
The twin towns of Tournon and Tain l’Hermitage, perched along the Rhône, are paradise for lovers of wine and spectacular scenery.
On a sunny Sunday morning, Tain l’Hermitage, renowned for its distinguished vineyards producing world-class Syrah and Marsanne wines, invites one to indulge in wine tastings that feel simulataneously intimate and exciting.
Nearby Tournon’s medieval castle offers panoramic views over the river and hillside vines, a timeless picture-postcard.
A walk along the river, returning to the riverboat, the Rhône’s gentle flow and the lush greenery made this region a peaceful and captivating retreat.
🌞 Why Southern France Steals the Heart
From coastlines shining in the Mediterranean sun to vineyards flourishing under blue skies, Southern France is a sensory feast.
The interplay of ancient history and vibrant modern life creates an unmatched travel experience.
Whether you’re wandering through historic arenas, indulging in culinary masterpieces, or sipping Syrah overlooking the Rhône, Southern France enchants at every turn.
It’s a place where detail truly defines luxury — every corner tells a story, every meal is a celebration, and every view is a masterpiece.
This transformative journey affirmed one truth: Southern France isn't just a destination; it’s a love affair waiting to happen.
If you'd like, I can help craft a bespoke itinerary or tailor a luxury experience to these captivating southern cities just for you.
All you have to do is say the word by clicking on the green box:
'til next week.
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Contact Juliet: GLOBAL EXOTIC ADVENTURES