South of France Vacation: Best Cities, Beaches and Experiences

What makes the South of France a great vacation destination? Known to locals as le Midi (or midday), this region is one of the most popular destinations in Europe during the summer for its sunny spots, amazing sites and beautiful culture. Stretching from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean and bordering both Spain and Italy, it’s home to many top spots such as the French Riviera and Provence.

This part of the world is known for its fragrant lavender fields, medieval towns, sun-drenched beaches, adventures and fresh seafood and produce-based cuisine — a result of the optimal mix of sun and sea. Fortunately, you can enjoy a South of France vacation both on land and at sea when you take a Royal Caribbean cruise.

Do you have your sights set on a world of flavors, from fresh sushi to authentic Italian favorites, wines from around the world and thrills like surfing and rock climbing? This guide will show you how to get a taste of the South of France on a Royal Caribbean cruise, and give you the rundown on where to visit and what to do once you’re in the area.

Key Takeaways

●  Experience the essence of the South of France at sea, from gourmet dining to coastal-inspired relaxation.

●  Enjoy thrill-packed activities like surfing simulators, skydiving experiences and rock climbing with ocean views.

●  Indulge in world-class cuisine like fresh seafood, global flavors and curated wine selections.

●  Unwind in luxurious spaces, including serene pool decks, private suites and adults-only retreats.

●  Explore iconic destinations along the French Riviera and Provence with easy access from cruise ports.

●  Balance adventure and relaxation with nonstop onboard entertainment and enriching shore excursions.

●  Explore South of France cruises with Royal Caribbean to get your fill of coastal adventure.

1. Get Your Thrills

There are many ways to get your heart racing in the South of France, whether it’s taking in the intoxicating scent of Provence’s vibrant lavender fields on a walk, cliff diving in La Roque-sur-Ceze or climbing the Pyrenees. Like in the South of France, there’s plenty of excitement in store for you and the whole family on Wonder of the Seas® and other Royal Caribbean ships.

Skydiving and Rock Climbing

If plunging from great heights is your thing, brave 10 stories of twists and turns by going down The Ultimate Abyss℠, the tallest slide at sea. Or get that rush on RipCord® by iFLY®, the skydiving simulator where you’ll float inside a wind tunnel.

For a front-row seat to ocean views, hit the rock climbing walls. Some ships even feature the North Star® — an all-glass observation capsule that offers panoramic views from 300 feet above the ocean. Kids can get their very own thrills and stunning vistas at Wonder Playscape, an outdoor, underwater-themed play area on Wonder of the Seas with multistory slides, climbing walls and activities to explore.

Pro tip: Like in La Roque-sur-Ceze, a village in the South of France known for cliff diving, the AquaTheater on Wonder of the Seas is where high divers — along with slackliners, aerialists, acrobats and more — perform daring feats from as high as 55 feet.

Surfing

If you like surfing in Biarritz, you’ll love hanging ten on the FlowRider®.

On land, the swell comes and goes, and you never know what the waves will do — if there are any. On Wonder of the Seas, surfing conditions are always ideal. Grab a boogie board and ride the rushing water on your belly or try shredding while standing up — the FlowRider is for pros and beginners alike.

Exploring Nature

In Central Park®, a lush, open-air neighborhood in the middle of Wonder of the Seas, you can wander down walking paths surrounded by more than 20,000 real plants while birdsong plays overhead. And if you’re craving a bite, take a break at restaurants like 150 Central Park, Chops Grille℠ or Giovanni’s℠ Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar.

Pro tip: Central Park is one of eight distinct neighborhoods. Each one has a variety of experiences for all ages, such as food and drink options like The Mason Jar℠ Southern Restaurant & Bar, as well as thrills like a 10-story-high zip line and high-speed waterslides.

2. Unforgettable Meals

The South of France is brimming with incredible food and wine, like freshly caught fish paired with a crisp glass of rosé. In fact, vineyards thrive in southern France, where long days and balmy temps create ideal grape-growing conditions practically all year. Wonder of the Seas has you covered with several of France’s best varietals, as well as a range of dining options that will make the whole family happy.

Dining With Variety

Looking for delicious dishes? You’ll have many to choose from thanks to a variety of restaurants, bars and lounges.

Many memories are made at the dinner table, and there are plenty of places and ways to make them on board. Whatever you’re feeling, whether you want to grab a slice of pizza at Sorrento’s, tacos at El Loco Fresh®, steak at Chops Grille, pasta at Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar or wings at Playmakers℠ Sports Bar & Arcade, Royal Caribbean has something to satisfy every craving.

Savoring Seafood

If you like Fresh seafood, you’ll love sushi, sashimi, oysters and lobster — and there’s more where those came from.

If seafood is what you’re after, on Wonder of the Seas, hit up Hooked Seafood℠ for New England-inspired dishes like freshly shucked oysters and the Messy Fish Sandwich, or get the lobster and crawfish gumbo as well as the crab beignets at The Mason Jar Southern Restaurant & Bar.

Sipping Around the Mediterranean

While you can find comprehensive wine lists at restaurants and bars throughout every ship, Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar on Wonder of the Seas has an extensive menu of red, white, rosé and sparkling wine from around the world, 50 of which can even be served by the glass. If you want to expand beyond wine, take your pick from a lineup of cocktails inspired by the destinations visited, like the Bahamian Goombay Smash and the Jamaican Planter’s Punch.

Pro tip: Are zero-proof cocktails your preference? Find them anywhere on board. Some favorites are the Blueberry Mojito and the Watermelon Mint Lemonade. Even teens have a selection of shakes and beverages they can enjoy at their own “bar” while kicking back at the teens-only Social100: The Patio.

3. Relax To The Max

From the glamorous shores of the French Riviera to the white sand, clearwater coves surrounded by high limestone cliffs in Calanques National Park near Marseille, the South of France offers truly luxurious havens to unwind. Wonder of the Seas has no shortage of places to kick back in style.

Lounging in Luxury

The eighth neighborhood on Wonder of the Seas, the Suite Neighborhood, invites Royal Suite Class guests to enjoy a private suite sun deck. There, you can look forward to a stunning plunge pool, loungers, a bar and iconic ocean views. Plus, find your very own private restaurant, Coastal Kitchen, and the Suite Lounge just a few steps away.

Pro tip: On vacation with the whole family? Feast your eyes on the Wonder of the Seas 1,346-square-foot Ultimate Family Suite®. Located in the Suite Neighborhood, it accommodates up to 10 and features two stories of fun for everyone, from an in-suite slide to a cinema room and karaoke area.

Coasting on the French Riviera’s Best Beaches

The pool decks have everything you could need for a sun-soaked vacation with your loved ones, like resort-style pools, shady casitas and whirlpools, ocean views for miles in any direction, as well as Splashaway Bay℠, a kids’ aqua park, and The Perfect Storm®, a trio of high-speed waterslides.

Whether it’s day or night, there’s also live music at The Lime & Coconut, where you can grab the signature cocktail, which is a blend of coconut rum, guava syrup, coconut milk and lime juice. And when it’s time to recharge, several places where you can eat are nearby, including grab-and-go Mexican street fare spot El Loco Fresh and Solarium Bistro.

4. Dreamy Destinations: Best Cities in Southern France To Visit

When it comes to South of France vacations, there’s no shortage of areas to take in. Here are some of the most popular stops to make:

●  Nice: Set along the sparkling Baie des Anges, Nice blends old-world charm with seaside allure. Stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais, where palm trees sway against a backdrop of turquoise water, or wander through the colorful Old Town, filled with bustling markets and cozy cafes.

●  Cannes: Known for its glitz and glam, Cannes offers more than just its world-famous film festival. Here, you’ll find sandy beaches, upscale boutiques and elegant waterfront dining along La Croisette. Beyond the luxury, the city invites exploration through its historic Le Suquet district, where cobblestone streets and panoramic views reveal a quieter way of life.

●  Saint-Tropez: Once a humble fishing village, Saint-Tropez has become synonymous with effortless elegance. Picture sunny beaches, stylish beach clubs and beautiful fishing harbors. Yet, beyond the chic exterior, you’ll discover pastel-colored buildings and lively markets that capture the authentic spirit of the Mediterranean.

●  Marseille: France’s oldest city is a vibrant melting pot of cultures, history and coastal beauty. In Marseille, exploring the bustling Vieux-Port, where fishing boats bob alongside waterfront restaurants serving up the day’s freshest catch. Venture to Calanques National Park for dramatic limestone cliffs and hidden coves, or dive into the city’s rich history through its museums and historic landmarks.

●  Provence countryside: Step inland and you’ll find the heart of Provence, where rolling vineyards, olive groves and fragrant lavender fields stretch as far as the eye can see. Quaint hilltop villages and open-air markets offer a slower pace of life, inviting you to sip local rosé, sample regional specialties and take in the region’s timeless beauty.

●  Côte d’Azur beaches: The Côte d’Azur is the epitome of Mediterranean bliss, with its mix of beach clubs and secluded coves. Whether you’re lounging on pebbled shores or diving into crystal-clear waters, the coastline offers endless opportunities to relax and recharge.

5. Non-Stop Activities

Exploring the sun-drenched coastline of the South of France means discovering a seamless blend of relaxation and charm, from golden beaches to postcard-perfect coastal towns. Whether you’re wandering through the pastel streets of seaside villages or unwinding along the Mediterranean, each stop offers its own distinct allure.

With Royal Caribbean, you can effortlessly experience these destinations, docking near iconic ports that put you just steps away from vibrant promenades, local cafes and hidden coves. The journey continues inland with opportunities to savor world-renowned wine tasting in Provence, where rolling vineyards and lavender fields create an unforgettable sensory escape.

Beyond the scenery, the region is rich in culture and adventure. Cruise itineraries often include access to historic ports filled with centuries-old architecture, museums and cultural landmarks that bring the past to life.

For those craving activity, a French Riviera vacation delivers — from sailing along the glittering coast to surfing the Mediterranean waves or hiking scenic coastal trails with breathtaking views.

Next Stop: An Amazing South of France Cruise Vacation

No matter which Southern France city you choose to explore, Royal Caribbean can get you in the spirit. With tons of thrilling experiences and opportunities to relax, you’ll kick your feet up in Mediterranean style, with all the sun and sea you could wish for.

From mouthwatering meals to unforgettable cultural experiences, get a slice of the good life with a cruise to the South of France, where both on-board and on-land adventures will leave you refreshed and ready for whatever’s next.