DK Travel : Provence and Côte d'Azur

Provence’s top sights span the region’s rich and varied history, from Roman arenas, isolated abbeys, and the palace of the medieval popes, to the more recent opulence of the belle époque era and the glamorous resorts beloved of the 20th-century jet set. Sunsoaked beaches, pretty villages nestled among lavender fields and a mountainous hinterland have inspired generations of artists, and continue to enchant every visitor to the area.

Negresco Piano Bar

No techno here in the bar of the city’s palatial hotel (see Le Negresco, Nice). Just the tinkling of ivories amid wood panelling and deep armchairs, which give the place the pleasingly languorous air of a gentleman’s club.
Nice Carnival

Over three weeks in February, France’s fifth city blows all its gaskets as multicoloured floats, grotesque carnival figures and performing troupes take to the streets. Europe’s liveliest carnival also features the famous battle of the flowers.
Nice Jazz Festival

The best of the region’s many jazz festivals puts on 75 concerts over eight days. World-famous names, such as BB King and Gil Scott-Heron, show up to play in the 2,000-year-old Cimiez amphitheatre.
Nikaia, Nice

This international athletics event is one of the world’s Top 10 annual meets.
Nissa La Bella

A family atmosphere and great Niçoise dishes like vegetables stuffed with minced meat.
Nissa Socca

Nissa means Nice, and socca is the local chickpea flour pancake, and this is one of the best places to eat it.
Nostradamus

Born in St-Rémy-de-Provence, the scholar (1503– 66) published his book of prophecies in 1555.
Notre Dame Beach, Ile de Porquerolles

No cars are allowed on the island, so it’s a walk or cycle-ride along the rocky, 3-km (2-mile) track from the port to the loveliest beach in France (see Hill Walks in the Maures Mountains). Pine-fringed, it boasts white sand, calm waters, no commerce and few people. Your private slice of paradise.
Notre-Dame de l’Assomption, Puget-Théniers

Built by the Knights Templar, the 13th-century parish church of this mountain village has a beautiful altarpiece, Notre Dame de Secours (1525) by Antoine Ronzen, and a reredos of the Passion carried out by Flemish craftsmen.
Notre-Dame des Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

Dominating the seaside village, this 12th-century church (see Eglise de Notre-Dame, Les-Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer) houses relics of St Sarah and has superb views from its roof terrace.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €30
- €30–€40
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