Hyères

This lesser-known Riviera gem combines sandy beaches with a historic medieval old town perched on hillsides and gates to the beautiful Îles d'Hyères islands. It offers authentic Provençal charm without the crowds of Cannes or Nice.

Things to do

• Explore the Medieval Old Town — Wander through narrow cobbled streets and historic gateways in the Vieille Ville, discovering Renaissance facades, the ruins of a 12th-century castle, and panoramic views over the bay.
• Beach Day at Plage de l'Ayguade — Relax on this long sandy beach with calm waters, perfect for families and swimmers, backed by a small promenade with cafés and restaurants.
• Day Trip to Îles d'Hyères — Take a ferry to the nearby islands—Porquerolles, Port-Cros, or Île du Levant—for pristine beaches, hiking trails, and protected marine ecosystems.
• Villa Noailles — Tour this stunning 1923 modernist villa and contemporary art center that hosts exhibitions and showcases Cubist and Art Deco architecture.
• Salt Marshes and Bird Watching — Visit the Salins d'Hyères nature reserve to observe flamingos, herons, and migratory birds in their natural wetland habitat.
• Parc du Pointu — Enjoy this peaceful waterfront park with botanical gardens, walking paths along the harbor, and views of the Îles d'Hyères.

Food to try

• Bouillabaisse — This traditional Provençal fish stew made with local Mediterranean catch, saffron, and served with rouille and crusty bread is a must-try coastal specialty.
• Sardines à la Hyéroise — Grilled fresh sardines prepared simply with local olive oil, lemon, and herbs—a simple dish celebrating the region's fishing heritage.
• Sea Urchin (Oursin) — Eaten raw or as part of pasta dishes, fresh sea urchins are harvested locally and offered as a delicate seasonal specialty in waterfront restaurants.
• Ratatouille Niçoise — A vegetable medley of eggplant, zucchini, peppers, and tomatoes cooked in local olive oil, representing the heart of Provençal summer cuisine.
• Poutine (Local Fish Paste) — A thin paste made from tiny transparent fish fried until crispy, traditionally eaten on bread or in omelettes as a local delicacy unique to Provence.

Local customs & good to know

• Market Mornings — Visit the daily produce and flower markets in the town center early in the morning to experience authentic Provençal life and purchase fresh local ingredients.
• Siesta Culture — Many shops and restaurants close between 12 and 3 PM for lunch and rest—plan your activities accordingly and embrace this slower rhythm of life.
• Provençal Dialect and French Courtesy — Locals appreciate politeness and a greeting upon entering shops; learning basic French pleasantries like 'Bonjour' and 'Au revoir' enhances interactions significantly.
• Ferry Etiquette to the Islands — Book ferry tickets in advance during summer, arrive early for departure, and respect island environmental rules including no glass containers and designated swim areas.