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Historic village · Nice, Provença-Alpes-Costa Azul
Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Walled village on top of a hill, between Nice and Antibes, linked to 20th-century painters and full of art galleries.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a medieval village surrounded by 16th-century ramparts, built by order of King Francis I, on top of a hill about 20 km from Nice by road. Inside, the main street, the Rue Grande, runs through the village from end to end between stone houses, fountains and art galleries.
In the 20th century the village attracted painters and writers, such as Chagall, who is buried in the local cemetery at the southern end of the rampart. The restaurant and hotel La Colombe d'Or became known for the works left by artists who stayed there.
From the ramparts' walkway the view reaches the valleys and, in the distance, the sea. At the village entrance is the square where residents play pétanque, the French boules. The Fondation Maeght, one of France's most important modern art museums, is about a 15-minute walk away, in the woodland above the village.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to three hours; a full day if you include the Fondation Maeght.
Best time
Early in the morning or late in the afternoon. In summer, tour buses arrive around midday.
How to get there
By bus on the Lignes d'Azur network from Nice, on the line that goes to Vence. By car, there are paid parking lots at the village entrance, which is pedestrian-only.
Tip
The streets are stone and have inclines: wear sturdy footwear. Combine it with the Fondation Maeght and, if possible, with the neighboring town of Vence.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Saint-Paul-de-Vence
How do you get to Saint-Paul-de-Vence without a car?
By bus on the Lignes d'Azur network from Nice, on the line that goes to Vence. Check the stop and schedules beforehand.
Can you drive into the village?
No. The village is pedestrian-only; parking is outside the walls.
Where is Chagall's tomb?
In the cemetery of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, at the southern end of the village, next to the wall.