Why is the village of Saint Paul de Vence so famous worldwide? There are several reasons for its renown: the beauty of the site, its brilliant past, and a very well-known foundation. But don’t stop at just a few postcard images; if you’re vacationing on the French Riviera, you must visit the extraordinary town of Saint Paul de Vence. However, for the best experience, it’s ideal to visit outside the peak season.

Here are at least seven reasons (among many others) to spend at least a day in “Saint Paul,” as the locals call it.

1. The Unforgettable Image of the Village on its Hilltop

Saint Paul de Vence is, first and foremost, a silhouette reaching for the sky. The small, monochromatic stone village with Roman tiles is nestled within its ramparts. It was King Francis I, in the 16th century, who desired and closely oversaw the strengthening of the town’s fortifications, which was then a royal stronghold. The village was built around its castle, of which only the tower remains, now serving as the town hall. The entire mineral city under the Provençal sky, dominated by the white church steeple, is impressive. Over time, it has retained a very structured architecture, like a pious memory of the past. In the evening, at twilight, it seems to reign at the top of the hill of Saint Paul over the hinterland of Cagnes-sur-Mer and, of course, the Mediterranean. It’s a peaceful and unique spectacle, worth admiring at least once in a lifetime.

2. A Walk Around the Village, Inside and Outside the Ramparts

A double walk is recommended: one to admire the views of the countryside, the French Riviera, and the sea from around the bastioned ramparts of Saint Paul de Vence, and another inside the ramparts to admire the oval structure of the village, the beauty of the façades, restaurants, and shops that surround the village center. Everywhere, small architectural gems present themselves in their Provençal simplicity, adorably blended with vegetation that enhances every detail: jars of succulents, cacti, crimson, yellow, or violet blossoms, climbing and fragrant plants… A harmonious symphony of terracotta, plants, and colors finds its best expression here. Plan for an hour for these two walks.

3. The Charm Within the Village

The medieval spirit of Saint Paul de Vence reveals itself even more perfectly inside the village. Once past the spectacular tower-gate of the enclosure and admired the artistic pavement of the ground. Take the time to wander through the alleys. Admire the Place de la Grande Fontaine, so famous that it often represents the very soul of Saint Paul, the narrow and picturesque passages leading out of the village, the stone stairs on which to sit and dream. Glance at the pontis, a kind of stone corridor that connected houses by spanning the alley. Look up at the keep, which elegantly crowns the village. Here, time has stood still, to the great pleasure of the walkers.

4. A Village Entirely Dedicated to Art and Artists

20th-century artists loved Saint Paul de Vence and left their mark. Among the prestigious painters and sculptors who lived in the village and haunted its streets are Chagall, who painted many works here and is even buried in its humble and charming cemetery (a must-visit!). Matisse, Braque, and Modigliani also succumbed to the ancient charm of the town. These glorious patrons gave Saint Paul de Vence an exceptional affinity for ART in general and artists in particular, who are numerous and active here. The dozens of galleries offering a diverse artistic range testify to this, from internationally renowned painters to more modest but no less talented ones. Saint Paul is an open-air museum with free entry for all, so enjoy it without moderation!

5. The Unforgettable Maeght Foundation

A little before the village entrance, stop at the Maeght Foundation. This private museum, created by the great patrons and gallery owners Maeght and designed by architect Josep Lluís Sert (inaugurated in 1964), appears amidst an emerald green setting of hackberry and oak trees. This sight, perched on a velvet green lawn and surrounded by majestic modern sculptures (Miró, Calder), is the perfect prelude to a unique visit for all lovers of modern art. Besides the often-popular temporary exhibitions, the museum offers an exceptional walk and an educational shortcut among many major works of 20th-century masters: from Bonnard to Chagall, Braque to Matisse, Brancusi to Miró, Picasso to Léger. Don’t forget the sublime Giacometti sculptures in the inner courtyard or the garden adorned with artworks… An absolute enchantment.

6. The Collegiate Church of Saint Paul’s Conversion

This is the church of Saint Paul de Vence. It stands at the village center, next to a simple white chapel (decorated by Folon, formerly the chapel of the White Penitents, also worth a visit), a palm tree stretching towards the sky, and a simple and elegant cross.

The ensemble is of rare and striking mineral purity. Inside the church, whose foundation dates back to the 13th century (central nave) and expanded with aisles in the 16th century, you are struck by the gentle dimness and the wide, low vaults that give a very particular impression of intimacy. A monumental wrought-iron chandelier casts a golden light in the church. It is named after the painting “The Conversion of Saint Paul,” executed around 1680 by Sébastien Canavesi. A sumptuous painting of Saint Catherine of Alexandria martyr catches the eye. This is likely a painting executed in Rome in the 17th century, possibly even by Tintoretto himself. Other major works adorn the church’s inner chapels.

7. Savor the Flavors of Saint Paul

You are spoiled for choice! Just at the village entrance is the famous Colombe d’Or, an inn and terrace restaurant where Yves Montand and Simone Signoret once romanced. A bit further on the left, the restaurant Le Tilleul offers delicious Provençal dishes… Or La Fontaine in the village center. One rule in high season: reserve in advance! If a snack or a daily special (for the lucky early arrivals) suffices, try the Café de la Place under the plane trees, opposite the boulodrome where the locals play their eternal pétanque. A gastronomic address? Just before reaching the village, at the exit of La Colle sur Loup, stop by Alain Llorca, a starred and decidedly Mediterranean restaurateur in heart and taste.

Many sites on the French Riviera deserve your visit, as this territory is rich with superb experiences. But Saint Paul de Vence holds a special place, as everything here is exceptional. To discover it during a stay on the Riviera, the ideal is to rent an apartment or a house. For this, visit the site of the leading specialist in holiday rentals: www.rivieraholidayhomes.fr.