Toulon, Hyeres, and Cassis are two distinct destinations in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of France, each offering its own unique charm and attractions.

Here are some reasons why you might consider visiting Toulon and Cassis:

Welcome to Toulon

A charming city is known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, Toulon is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience. There is no shortage of things to see and do. Start your journey by exploring the Old Town, where you can wander through narrow streets lined with colorful buildings and discover hidden gems around every corner. Don’t miss the iconic Place de la Liberté, a bustling square surrounded by shops, cafes, and historic landmarks.

Nature enthusiasts

Everyone will be delighted by the breathtaking views offered by Mont Faron. Take a cable car ride up to the summit and be rewarded with panoramic vistas of Toulon’s coastline and beyond. The nearby Calanques de Cassis are also worth a visit for their crystal-clear waters and rugged cliffs.

One of the top recommendations in Toulon is its stunning coastline. The city is blessed with beautiful beaches such as Mourillon Beach and Anse Magaud, where tourits can soak up the sun and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. These beaches offer a perfect blend of relaxation and water sports activities.

A bit of History, Food and Wine

For history buffs, a visit to the Musée National de la Marine is highly recommended. This maritime museum showcases Toulon’s naval heritage through fascinating exhibits and artifacts. Additionally, don’t forget to explore the impressive Tour Royale, an ancient fortress that offers insight into Toulon’s military past.

Food lovers will be spoiled for choice in Toulon as well. Indulge in traditional Provençal cuisine at one of the many local restaurants or explore vibrant markets where you can sample fresh produce and regional delicacies. A unique experience was a visit to the Halles Municipales, where you can eat food from different regions of France

In conclusion, Toulon offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and culinary delights. Whether you’re strolling through its charming streets or immersing yourself in its cultural attractions, this captivating city will leave you with unforgettable memories of your travels in Provence.

Hyères – the city of palm trees

A city of narrow streets full of colorful shops and attractive squares with restaurant terraces. Everything is alive in the summer, but also in the winter because there are many harbors for rent in the area where northerners stay all winter, so there are a lot of tourists at any time of the year.

Around the city are numerous beaches such as Plage de l’Almanarre and Plage de la Capte that attract visitors with their golden sand and shallows. This area is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts such as windsurfing and kite surfing. Not far away are three islands, the most famous of which is Porquerolles. The island offers beautiful hiking trails, pristine beaches and fairytale landscapes. It is an ideal place to relax and explore natural beauty.

The city is known for its diverse gastronomic offer, and visitors can explore the local markets to taste fresh produce and typical Provençal specialties.

Hyères is therefore a destination that combines the beauty of the Mediterranean coast with a rich cultural heritage,

Cassis

It is a small town to explore the charm of Cassis. From its picturesque harbor to its stunning natural surroundings, Cassis offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

One of the must-see attractions in Cassis is its enchanting harbor. Lined with colorful fishing boats and vibrant waterfront cafes, this bustling hub is the perfect place to soak up the lively atmosphere and enjoy a stroll along the water’s edge. Take a moment to savor the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and admire the rugged cliffs that surround the town.

Venturing beyond the harbor, visitors will discover an array of scenic landscapes that make Cassis truly special. The Calanques National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders, with its dramatic limestone cliffs and hidden coves. Hiking enthusiasts can embark on exhilarating trails that lead to secluded beaches or take a boat tour for a closer look at this magnificent geological formation.

For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Cassis would not be complete without exploring its ancient streets and landmarks. The 13th-century Château de Cassis stands proudly atop a hilltop overlooking the town, offering panoramic views that are worth every step of the climb. Wander through narrow alleyways lined with charming shops, art galleries, and traditional Provencal houses that exude old-world charm.

AOC Wines

Cassis is renowned for its white wines, particularly the AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) Cassis wine. The main grape variety used in Cassis wine production is Clairette, often blended with Marsanne and Ugni Blanc. These grape varieties thrive in the Mediterranean climate of the region. The wines are known for their vibrant acidity, making them suitable for pairing with seafood and Mediterranean cuisine.

It’s worth noting that Cassis is also famous for its namesake blackcurrant liqueur, Crème de Cassis, which is widely used in cocktails and as a flavoring agent. However, when discussing Cassis wine, it typically refers to the white wine produced in this charming Provencal village.

Whether you are drawn to stunning coastal vistas or eager to immerse yourself in local history and culture, Cassis has something for everyone. Prepare to be captivated by this gem on France’s Mediterranean coast as you uncover its hidden treasures and create unforgettable memories.

Mediterranean Forum

The reason for my arrival in Toulon was to visit the Mediterranean Forum, which is held every year in a port city in France. This year it was Toulon, and many were looking forward to a visit to this city, which is often not included in Provence travel itineraries. After my stay, I can say that it is unjustified, because the city is really interesting and different from its bigger brother, Marseille, and the slightly more distant Nice.


The Mediterranean Forum is a workshop where you can see how France cleverly manages the promotion of the winter part of the year. In addition to the exhibitors, about a hundred travel agencies from countries around the Mediterranean and a dozen journalists were present. We saw a lot and learned about how winter tourism can be significant for the economy of small towns.

Travel Advisor – Europe