Saint Paul de Vence, a gem of a hilltop village

Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a fortified medieval hilltop village in southeastern France, located between Nice and Cannes on the French Riviera. Perched above the Mediterranean coast, the village has a population of roughly 3,500 residents and is considered one of the most beautiful and historically well-preserved villages in Provence. 

Originally founded in the Middle Ages, Saint-Paul-de-Vence became strategically important because of its elevated position overlooking the surrounding countryside. In the 16th century, King Francois I strengthened the village's defensive ramparts, many of which still surround the old town today. It's narrow cobblestone streets, stone houses, fountains, and art-filled squares preserve much of its medieval character. 

The village is famous for its connection to art and culture. During the 20th century, Saint-Paul-de-Vence attracted celebrated artists, writers, and actors including Marc Chagall, Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Yves Montand. It is home to the renowned Fondation Maeght modern art museum and the legendary La Colombe d'Or, an inn famous for displaying original artworks donated by artists who stayed there. 

Today, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is known for its art galleries, Provencal charm, spectacular views, and vibrant cafe culture, making it one of the most visited villages on the Cote d'Azur.

 

Saint-Paul-de-Vence Cafe

Entrance to Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Chapelle Sainte-Claire

The game of Boules, also known as Pétanque, originated in Provence in the early 20th century and is traditionally played on gravel or packed dirt courts. Players stand inside a circle and toss steel balls as close as possible to a small wooden target ball called the cochonnet ("little pig"). The game remains an important part of Provencal social life, often played in village squares beneath plane trees alongside cafes and outdoor terraces.

Friends play boules on a Saint-Paul-de-Vence square

Covered Passageway in Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Shirley and I in Saint-Paul-de-Vence

White Penitents Chapel

The tower of the main parish church in the village.

Village shop

Village fountain

Saint-Paul-de-Vence cemetery where artist Marc Chagall is buried

View of the Alps from the village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Saint-Paul-de-Vence War Memorial

Saint-Paul-de-Vence Ramparts

Horse statue in Saint-Paul-de-Vence

We definitely recommend you drive up the road to Saint-Paul-de-Vence if you are spending time around Nice. The trip is about 20 km and usually takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. From Nice, you typically leave the coast and gradually climb inland through hills covered with cypress, olive trees, villas, and stone walls. Parking is generally outside the village, after which visitors walk into the village through the ancient walls.

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