This hilltop town in Provence has stone-built houses converted into art galleries, a 12th-century cathedral with green-white tiles, and views stretching to the Mediterranean Sea.
Vence sits in the hills above the French Riviera, where medieval gates and stone walls encircle narrow streets dating back to Roman times. You can fill your water bottle from mineral springs that feed the town's fountains, browse the Friday morning market for local cheese and produce, or walk to the 11th-century Cathedral of Notre-Dame de la Nativité to see Marc Chagall's Moses mosaic. The surrounding hills contain walking paths through olive groves, leading up to viewpoints of the Mediterranean coast.
Exploring the Medieval Center
The old town of Vence lies within circular medieval walls with five entrance gates. Walk through the Porte du Peyra to find the 1822 fountain and a 16th-century ash tree planted during King François I's reign. The narrow streets open into squares with outdoor cafes, and you can still walk on the original Roman road under the covered passage of Rue des Portiques.
The Cathedral and Religious Art
The Cathedral of Notre-Dame de la Nativité is France's smallest cathedral, built in the 11th century. The interior contains carved wooden stalls from the 1400s, wooden statues dating from the 16th to 19th centuries, and a mosaic by Marc Chagall depicting Moses. Walk 15 minutes from the center to find the Matisse Chapel, where the artist designed stained glass windows and interior elements in the post-war period.
Markets and Local Life
Every Friday morning, vendors fill Place du Grand Jardin with regional produce, cheese, and crafts. An organic market takes over the same location on Saturdays, while clothing sellers set up in Place Maréchal Juin on Tuesdays. Throughout the week, you'll see locals collecting water from the mineral springs that flow through the town's fountains.
Getting Around
Drive to Vence via the A8 motorway from Nice in about 30 minutes. While Vence has no train station, buses 400 and 9 run regularly from Nice's Park Phoenix station. Visit the tourist office in Villa Alexandrine for maps and current information about attractions.
Walking Routes and Views
The path to Baou des Blancs cliff gives you clear views of Vence and the Mediterranean coast. Walking trails wind through olive groves and citrus orchards in the surrounding area. The Préalpes d'Azur Natural Park starts just north of town, with marked paths extending into the mountains.
Art and Culture
The 16th-century Château des Villeneuve, once home to the lords of Vence, now serves as a modern art museum with temporary exhibitions and a permanent collection. Throughout the year, you can attend art exhibitions, classical music concerts, and the Nuits du Sud music festival in summer.
