Wrapped around a medieval center and shadowed by the towering Baous massif and the Col de Vence, Vence is a modern but tranquil town about 20km from Nice. The stone walls that once encircled the town are still visible even as medieval houses crowd up against them and the crooked streets are a delight to wander. Notice the 13th-century gate and a 16th-century square graced by an ash tree that allegedly dates from the 16th century. Another square, the place du Peyra sports a fountain built in 1578.

As the seat of a succession of bishops, there's no shortage of chapels but the highlight is Vence's Notre Dame de la Nativite Cathedral.

Begun in the 11th century, it's the smallest cathedral in France but it hosts a might work of art. The mosaic, Moïse sauvé des eaux (Moses saved by the waters) was created by Marc Chagall in 1979.

Chagall lived and worked in Vence as did Matisse, Dufy, Soutine and Dubuffet.

The other main attraction of Vence is Matisse's Chapelle du Rosaire, the extraordinary chapel entirely designed by Matisse as a gift for his former nurse and model who became a Dominican nun. From the stained-glass windows to the candlesticks, the chapel is a monument to Matisse's genius and perhaps the most significant artistic landmark in the region.

It's an easy and pretty walk from the town center. Check the Chapel's website for opening hours.

Art-lovers will also want to check out the Chateau de Villeneuve which houses the Fondation Emile-Hugues. This 17th-century mansion now holds modern and contemporary art exhibitions on a regular basis.

Depending on the season, you can use Vence as a base to launch hikes of varying difficulty or attend the summer concert series, Nuits de Sud, to enjoy music from Africa, South America and the Caribbean.

Where to Stay

There are a few hotels in the town center but some really first-rate luxury resorts a little out of town between Vence and St Paul de Vence. Le Mas de Pierre is a five-star family mansion that will spoil you with luxury. The Mas d'artigny & Spa isn't far behind and offers magnificent views. The Chateau St Martin is a spa hotel with a starred Michelin restaurant.

Getting to Vence

There's no train station in Vence but bus 9 connects Nice from Parc Phoenix and Vence. You can find the schedule here. Take the bus to the last stop and you'll be right near the town center.

Tourist Information

The Vence tourist office has more information about visiting Vence.