Vence Vacation Rentals
Tips on renting in Vence
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Vence, a charming town in the Cote d’Azur, offers a perfect family getaway. Start your exploration at the historic Place du Grand Jardin, where local markets come alive with fresh produce and crafts. Step inside the Cathédrale de la Nativité de Marie to admire its ancient mosaics. Art lovers should not miss the Chapelle du Rosaire, famously designed by Henri Matisse. Take a guided walking tour with Vence Tourisme to uncover the town’s medieval ramparts and hidden fountains. Families can enjoy a picnic at Parc de la Conque or hike the nearby Baou des Blancs for panoramic views. Savor artisanal ice cream at Les Gourmandises d’Antan or dine at La Table de Domi for Provençal flavors. For a creative afternoon, visit Atelier Soardi for pottery workshops. Don’t forget to browse the boutiques along Rue du Marché and take a scenic drive to the nearby Gorges du Loup waterfall.
Nearby cities
Saint Paul de Vence
Discover Saint Paul de Vence in Cote d'Azur, France—wander sunlit cobblestone lanes, picnic by olive groves, and enjoy art-filled days with your family.
Roquefort les Pins
Discover Roquefort les Pins in Cote d’Azur—where your family can picnic under pines, explore sunny trails, and play by sparkling lakes all season long.
Cagnes-sur-Mer
Bring your family to Cagnes-sur-Mer in the Cote d'Azur for sunny beaches, gentle waves, lively markets, and outdoor fun everyone will remember together.
Villeneuve-Loubet
Discover Villeneuve-Loubet in Cote d’Azur—where your family can picnic by sparkling lakes, bike scenic trails, and play on sandy beaches under sunny skies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Vence has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Vence, France delights families who love the outdoors with its enchanting blend of medieval charm and natural beauty. The town sits on the edge of the Baou des Blancs, offering panoramic hiking trails with sweeping views of the Mediterranean. Children can explore the historic ramparts and splash in the crystal-clear waters of the Gorges du Loup, while parents enjoy the vibrant local markets and the soothing ambiance of the Place du Grand Jardin, all under the radiant Côte d’Azur sun.
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Vence is a wonderfully walkable city for families, especially within its charming Old Town, where you can stroll along cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses and discover landmarks like the Cathedral of the Nativity of Saint Mary. The city’s compact center offers plenty of cafes, boutiques, and artisan shops within easy reach. However, if you plan to explore the nearby countryside or visit places like Saint-Paul-de-Vence or the Fondation Maeght, renting a car is convenient.
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Vence, located in the scenic hills of the French Riviera, is more renowned for its charming old town, art galleries, and proximity to Saint-Paul-de-Vence than for lakefront accommodations. The area is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and Mediterranean views, but it does not have lakes with traditional lakefront cabins or lodges. Visitors seeking unique stays can find rustic villas and boutique hotels with panoramic views of the countryside, olive groves, and the distant Alps, providing a tranquil retreat.
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Families can make the most of a short 2-night stay in Vence by exploring the charming old town, where cobblestone streets lead to vibrant art galleries and the iconic Chapelle du Rosaire, designed by Henri Matisse. Enjoy a leisurely meal at a café in Place du Grand Jardin, then stroll through the lively morning market for local flavors. For a memorable afternoon, visit the Fondation Maeght in nearby Saint-Paul-de-Vence, filled with modern art and beautiful sculpture gardens.
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If you’re staying in Vence and looking for beaches with lifeguards during the summer, head to the nearby coastline of Cagnes-sur-Mer or Antibes. Plage de la Serre in Cagnes-sur-Mer is popular with families and features lifeguard supervision from June through September. In Antibes, Plage de la Salis is well-known for its soft sands and clear waters, and lifeguards are present throughout the summer months, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
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During the colder months, Vence comes alive with festive charm, especially during its enchanting Christmas Market held in the historic Place du Grand Jardin, where local artisans sell crafts and Provençal treats. The city also celebrates the Fête de la Saint-Blaise in early February, honoring its patron saint with traditional music, parades, and a lively procession through the picturesque medieval streets. The nearby city of Nice hosts the spectacular Nice Carnival, a must-see event featuring elaborate floats and vibrant street performances.
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A couple visiting Vence should budget around 180 to 250 euros per day to enjoy the medieval charm of this Provençal town. This amount covers a comfortable stay in a boutique hotel, meals at local bistros where you can savor Niçoise cuisine, and entry to attractions like the Chapelle du Rosaire, designed by Henri Matisse. With this budget, you can also browse the lively markets and perhaps sample local wines in a café on Place du Grand Jardin.