The Tourist-Free Time To See One Of France's Most Scenic Fairytale Villages, Saint-Paul-De-Vence

There are plenty of medieval towns to explore in France, but Saint-Paul-de-Vence's quaint atmosphere and gorgeous views attract droves of visitors year after year. This village's charm pulls in a lot more tourists than you might expect, so your stroll along the ramparts can feel more like a busy commute, or the relaxing sound of the Grand Fountain can be drowned out by excited voices. If you're hoping for a more tranquil experience where you can really take the time to experience everything Saint-Paul-de-Vence has to offer, you might want to consider putting on a jacket and exploring the streets on a bright winter morning.

It's no secret that the best time to avoid crowds at tourist hotspots is first thing in the morning, but that's even more true at Saint-Paul-de-Vence. The village may be a draw in and of itself, but it is also located near French Riviera destinations like Nice and Cannes, gaining a reputation as the perfect scenic day trip. During the day, tourists take buses from nearby cities to explore the village, which means that the number of people on its narrow streets can quickly get out of hand. If you're there in the morning before they arrive or in the evening after they leave, you'll be able to get a more private experience. Coming during the off-season provides an even quieter experience.

A lot of people go to the south of France for the bright sunshine and warm weather, but if you don't mind coming in the winter, you can avoid tourist crowds in Saint-Paul-de-Vence. While in the summer you can enjoy weather from the mid-60s to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, you'll have to share the sunshine with intense tourist crowds. The idea of wandering the medieval streets in the dead of winter might seem unpleasant, but if you're used to colder climates, the winter probably won't be too chilly to enjoy spending the day outside.

In the coldest winter months of December, January, and February, you'll find temperatures between 38 and 54 degrees Fahrenheit, so there's unlikely to be any snow on your trip. If the idea of a winter visit is too cold for you, you might be able to compromise your desire for sunny days with your distaste for crowded streets and visit in the shoulder season. While these months don't offer a completely private experience like in winter, you won't have to fight to visit an art museum or shout to be heard in the village center if you visit in the spring or fall.

As long as you don't mind packing a few extra layers, winter could be the perfect way to really take your time and appreciate all of the intricate details of this popular village. Saint-Paul-de-Vence is one of the French Riviera's oldest medieval towns, and as you explore its cobbled streets you will be walking in the footsteps of artists like Marc Chagall, Picasso, Matisse, and Modigliani. In Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a major part of the appeal is its history, and the fascinating architecture and vibrant art culture are there all year long, so you won't be missing out by skipping its most popular season.

Even though the tourists are gone, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy in the village itself during the cold weather, from Chagall-themed escape games and art exhibits to concerts. If you don't mind some walking, one of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of the village is to hike the surrounding countryside — take a circular route around Saint-Paul-de-Vence via Vallon du Malvan, which provides excellent views of the village and the nearby river valley. Since you won't be there in the heat of summer, you can enjoy these walks without the sun beating down on you. To escape the crowds further, head to the little-known beach town of Menton, a hidden gem in the French Riviera.