France > France regions > Provence > Alpes-Maritimes > (Cote d'Azur) > Vence
Vence
Vence is located on the French Riviera, slightly inland from the coastal resort at Cagnes-sur-Mer.
It is a very attractive town on a rocky ledge and surrounded by its original fortifications that attracts many visitors during the high season. The town is still entered through one of the original gateways in these ramparts.
The Cathedral of the Nativity of Saint Mary in Vence dates originally from the 4th century - and includes a mosaic by Marc Chagall! The greater artistic surprise in Vence is at the Chapelle du Rosaire, the Matisse Chapel at Vence.
The small 'Matisse' chapel was designed inside and out by Matisse in the years following the end of the second world war - and was among his greatest artistic achievements. The chapel is small yet perfectly formed.
Matisse and Chagall, along with many other artists, were attracted here by the town, the surrounding countryside, and the closeness to so many beautiful landscapes.
There are several other highlights in Vence old town and historical centre, including the decoratively painted Tower of Saint-Lambert, and the Chapelle des Penitents Blancs.
There are also several picturesque and shady old squares where you will find a cafe and time to relax and enjoy the setting.
Above all though it is simply the ensemble - the attractiveness of the town as a whole, the flower bedecked streets, the views across the countryside - that will stay longer in your memories of the town of Vence than any one of the monuments.
Note: D H Lawrence died in Vence in 1930, and was buried here for a few years before being exhumed and his ashes sent to Mexico.
Vence: tourist information, map, travel plans and gites
|
|
Plan a visit to Vence, France
Hotels Vence
Holiday rentals / travel
Property for sale Vence |
|
Map of Vence, France |
Places to visit - Vence
Explore places within about 70 kilometres on a map at Visit Vence.
Some of the closer places are listed below (distances from Vence are approximate and direct - as the crow flies. Only places listed on the france this way site are shown!)
- Gourdon Most beautiful village at 15 km
- Grasse Perfume town at 22 km
- Villefranche-sur-Mer French riviera town at 22 km
- Juan-les-Pins Beach resort at 17 km
- Antibes Riviera town at 16 km
- Nice Major Riviera resort at 17 km
- Cannes Important Riviera resort at 22 km
- Cap Ferrat French Riviera peninsula at 25 km
- Cagnes-sur-Mer Village and Chateau Grimaldi at 8 km
- Saint-Paul-de-Vence Popular hilltop village at 3 km
Information and photos
This travel guide has information, holidays and photos of Vence when available. If you have any photos or relevant information please send them to us! Full credit will be given if they are used.
Find road directions to reach Vence
