Nice is the first destination that comes to most Americans' minds when considering a trip to the South of France. As the Côte d'Azur's largest city, it's likely where you'll arrive via either plane or train.
Eze is a fantastic medieval town in the mountains above the Mediterranean. It's located a 15-minute train ride from Nice and is a great day trip!
France's second-largest city is located right on the Mediterranean, a nice change of pace from Paris. You can eat well cheaply at Les Halles (the public market) in Old Port.
If you love small towns along the water, then you'll love Cassis. Like Menton, it's a great alternative base and jumping-off point to explore Calanques National Park.
Besides Nice, Monaco is the other destination in southern France that Americans are most familiar with. Known for insane wealth, super yachts, a famous casino, and F1, this small city-state is actually its own country.
The hilltop town is perched above lavender fields and houses an impressive castle that once served as the residence for the Ademar family in the 12th century.
Italy isn't the only country with Roman ruins worth visiting! Arles, just south of Avignon, has a huge Roman arena and an adorable town that are well worth visiting.
Avignon is a beautiful town between Lyon and Marseille and a great base for exploring Provence.