Arcachon

Arcachon is the main town on the Bassin d’Arcachon, a bay of the Atlantic ocean that attracts many visitors from Bordeaux. Less than 40 miles separates the capital of the Southwest from Arcachon and its beautiful villas, clear blue beaches and delicious seafood. This is also one of the main osticulture (oysters farming) centers of France so eating oysters is a “must” when coming to the area.

One of the main attractions in Arcachon’s city center is the main market, Marché d’Arcachon. Like many towns in the area, Arcachon too has a fantastic covered market gathering plenty of food stands with local delicacies. The best thing is that the market is open daily from mid-June to mid-September. In the summer, a night market takes place several days a week, with stands of clothes, accessories, jewelry and more.

Since Arcachon is one of the most popular seaside resorts in France, the summer does get flooded with tourists and locals a like. A visit in May-June or September is better if you're looking to avoid the crowds.

Royan

Located at the entrance to the Gironde estuary, Royan has a long history as a seaside resort, it was the very first resorts in France to arisewhen the fashion for sea-bathing developed at the start of the 19th century. Rebuilt after the bombardments of 1945, the town of Royan today offers many examples of modern architecture, including residential blocks and the Notre-Dame church. It is though still possible to admire charming villas of the Belle Époque period, especially in the prestigious district of Pontaillac. Beautiful fine sand beaches, among which the Grande Conche beach and the beautiful beach of Pontaillac, as well as the numerous activities on offer make Royan a renowned seaside resort.

Saint-Emilion

Founded by a modest hermit, Saint-Emilion's history stretches back for 13 centuries. Famous and most known for the Saint-Emilion wines that comes from this appellation in the Bordeaux wine region, this area is a "must see" for all wine enthusiasts. However, a visit here will also allow you to discover the beauty and the town in the Southwest of France, registered by UNESCO. Wandering around is practically an outdoor museum itself, this village carved out of the limestone and perched dramatically on a promontory, and is beautiful to explore.

For many decades this picturesque town has been an economic and religious center attracting royals, winegrowers and pilgrims. Every square in the small village center is packed with history and some incredible architecture. Thousands of hectares of vines surround the medieval village making the landscape an unforgettable scenery.

La Rochelle

A popular French vacation destination on the southwest coast and student hub, where island paradise is just a bridge away and yachts dot the horizon, La Rochelle is the bustling capital of the Charente Maritime. The city is famous for its majestic medieval towers that acts as a gateway to the port and the city, and its adventurous maritime history. Aside from this, it’s the perfect place to spend a couple of days, enjoying the lively Old Town and its many open-air bars and restaurants, beautiful green spaces, and photogenic medieval streets.

The city has plenty of things to offer, including history, a beautiful harbor, and some great beaches close to town. Explore a little further, and you can discover stunning cliff-top coastline, as well as lesser-known islands that feel a world away from France!