Provence has a great range of accommodation, with the market split three ways:

• Budget offerings include Hostels in many central locations and homestays (Airbnb and the like) a little further out in the villages and rural areas. Included here are a couple of Camp Sites which offer an alternative and very flexible solution.

• Mid-range options are dominated by bed and breakfasts or, as they are often called, chambre d'hôtes that dot residential areas and rural areas beyond the city centre; and a few modern central chain hotels. Hiring a cottage or Gîte for a few days is also very popular - check out the website in Practical Information.

• Luxury choices generally divide between noble Belle Époque offerings like the Hotel Negresco at Nice, and its modern equivalent, the Hotel l'Image at St-Rémy-de-Provence; along with a clutch of smaller high-end boutique options.

Location