From the Italian border to Marseille, the sun-soaked beaches and blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea make up the famed French Riviera. With sunbathers tanning au naturel on the beaches, history buffs exploring abandoned fortifications, and trendy students partying until dawn in Europe's most exclusive nightclubs, the Côte d'Azur is one of the most fabled destinations in the world.

Nîmes

An important crossroads in the ancient world, Nîmes is best known for its Roman antiquities. Its amphitheater is the best preserved of its kind, and its museums, archaeological collections, intimate squares, and narrow streets are a delight to experience.

Avignon

Study abroad students stop for a photo sur le Pont d'Avignon

A thriving modern city, Avignon is best known as home of the papal court in the 14th-century. The Palais des Papes is a magnificient palace that was home to the Pope from 1309 to 1377, and whose heavy fortification reflects the violent nature of 14th-century religious life. Other sights within Avignon's massive ramparts include the Petit Palais, Cathédrale de Notre-Dame-des-Doms, and the Musée Calvet which houses an overview of French art over the past 500 years.

Arles

Few other cities in the region blend Provence's charms as nicely as Arles. The ocher walls and Roman-tiles roofs complement its Roman heritage, including its arena and Constantine baths. The city's wealth and intimacy have made it a favorite destination for study abroad students in Provence.

Les Baux de Provence

One of the most enchanting places in Provence, Les Baux is renowned for its medieval ruins, demolished castle, and restored Renaissance houses. The village rests 245 meters up on a rocky spur of a massive rocky plateau. It is believed that Dante found his inspiration for Inferno in the Val d'Enfer (Valley of Hell) that lies below the castle.

Gorges du Verdon

Students take a break while exploring the Gorges du Verdon

The Verdon Gorges make up one of the most spectacular natural sights in Europe. The Gorges reach heights of 700 meters as the dark green Verdon River weaves through a deep, craggy valley of rocks and peaks. The most dramatic viewpoints the villages of Aiguines, Moustiers-Ste-Marie, and La Palud sur-Verdon, Point Sublime, and the Pont de l'Artuby bridge.

The Camargue

Created by the Rhone Delta, the Camargue comprises 346,000 acres of wetlands, pastures, dunes, and salt flats. A unique collection of flora and fauna flourishes here, including tamarisk, narcissi, egrets, and ibises. The pastures are home to grazing sheep, cattle, and horses, ridden by the gardiens who keep Camargue traditions alive.