Things To Do
in Draguignan
Draguignan is a charming town located in the Provence region of France, known for its picturesque countryside and historic architecture. The town's attractive old town area features narrow cobblestone streets lined with shops, cafes, and boutiques. Visitors can explore the impressive Saint Michel Church and the picturesque Clock Tower, offering stunning views over the surrounding landscape.
Draguignan also serves as a gateway to the stunning Verdon Gorge and the beautiful Côte d'Azur coastline.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local market and enjoy fresh produce. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and taste local delicacies.
Take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Draguignan. Visit the beautiful Église Saint-Michel and appreciate its stunning architecture.
Dine at a cozy bistro and savor a traditional Provençal meal. End your evening with a quiet walk through the illuminated town squares.
Embark on a hike in the surrounding hills to admire scenic views of the countryside. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Pack a picnic and relax in Parc Chabran, enjoying the sun and greenery. Take time to read or simply soak in the surroundings.
Head to a local wine bar for a wine tasting experience. Sample regional wines while mingling with locals and fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural heritage with historical sites and architecture.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including the Provence region and nearby mountains.
- A mild Mediterranean climate, making it enjoyable year-round.
- Less touristy compared to other cities in the Provence region, offering a more authentic experience.
- Local markets and gastronomy, featuring fresh produce and regional specialties.
- May lack some amenities and services found in larger cities.
- Transportation options may be limited compared to urban areas.
- Tourism infrastructure may be less developed, leading to potential inconvenience.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to bigger cities.
- Can be quiet during off-peak seasons, which may not appeal to everyone.
Best Activities in Draguignan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
1. Hiking in the surrounding countryside and mountains 2. Visiting the Gorges du Verdon for scenic walks and water-based activities 3. Exploring the vineyards and wineries in the region 4. Cycling along designated routes such as the Veloroute du Haut Var 5. Enjoying picnics in the Parc Haute Tourves 6. Golfing at the Golf de Barbaroux 7. Rock climbing and canyoning in the nearby natural areas 8. Kayaking or paddleboarding on the Argens River
Tours
Uncover the best of Draguignan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Draguignan
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Draguignan and the surrounding area.
Features a terrace with stunning views of the Maures and Esterel mountains.
Provides a beautiful vantage point for capturing scenic photographs.
Food in Draguignan
Draguignan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful vegetable stew made with tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and herbs.
Must-Try!
A savory tart topped with caramelized onions, olives, and anchovies, often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.
A traditional Provençal fish stew, enriched with saffron and served with rouille (a garlicky mayonnaise).
Unique Experiences
Get to know Draguignan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find an array of fresh produce, cheeses, olives, and other local delicacies. Also, look out for vendors offering regional street food specialties like socca and pan bagnat.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Draguignan, it is common to greet people with a handshake, particularly in formal settings. Always address people using formal titles like 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' unless invited to use their first name.
When dining in Draguignan, it is considered polite to keep your hands visible on the table and to wait until the host offers a toast before taking the first sip of wine. It is also customary to finish everything on your plate as a sign of respect for the meal.
In residential areas, it's important to observe quiet hours, especially during midday 'siesta' time and late evenings. Making loud noise during these times may be considered disrespectful to the local culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Draguignan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Draguignan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Draguignan, France is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants, bars, and for exceptional service. A customary tip is around 5-10% of the total bill, but this can vary depending on the level of service.
In Draguignan, France, major credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments. Cash is also commonly used, especially for smaller purchases or in more traditional or local businesses. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Draguignan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
In spring, the weather in Draguignan is mild and pleasant, with blooming flowers and green scenery. It's a great time to visit for outdoor activities and to explore the beautiful countryside.
Summer in Draguignan is warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying the beaches along the French Riviera and attending local festivals and events. The city comes alive with vibrant energy during this time.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures to Draguignan, making it a fantastic time for hiking and exploring the picturesque forests and vineyards. The fall colors add a magical touch to the surroundings.
Winter in Draguignan is relatively mild compared to the rest of France, making it a pleasant destination for those seeking a milder winter climate. It's an ideal time to experience the local holiday traditions and enjoy cozy indoor activities.
Draguignan at Night
Hiking in Draguignan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
One of the most stunning natural attractions in France, offering numerous trails with breathtaking views of the Verdon River.
A beautiful mountain range along the Mediterranean coast with a variety of hiking trails and scenic vistas of the sea.
Known for its lavender fields, this plateau offers pleasant hiking routes with picturesque landscapes.
A great hiking location featuring diverse flora and fauna along with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
A distinctive rock formation near Draguignan, offering hiking trails with excellent views and varied terrain.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Draguignan through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Draguignan by plane.
Located approximately 92 km from Draguignan, Nice Côte d'Azur Airport is the main airport serving the French Riviera and is the second busiest airport in France.
Situated around 167 km from Draguignan, Marseille Provence Airport serves the city of Marseille and surrounding areas with a significant number of international flights.
Approximately 41 km away from Draguignan, Toulon–Hyères Airport primarily serves domestic flights but has some international connections, particularly to European destinations.
About 119 km from Draguignan, Avignon-Provence Airport is a smaller airport that mainly offers seasonal flights to various European destinations.
Located around 133 km from Draguignan, Nîmes-Alès-Camargue-Cévennes Airport serves primarily low-cost airlines and offers limited international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population, comprising various age groups and social backgrounds.
Includes individuals from North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, and other European countries.
A significant demographic in Draguignan, reflecting the aging population trend in France.
Individuals in their 20s to 30s, representing a vibrant segment contributing to the local economy and culture.
Representing the youth population, participating in education and recreational activities.
The Soul of Draguignan
Discover the essence of Draguignan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is a popular sport in Draguignan, with local clubs participating in regional leagues and fostering youth development.
Rugby has a strong following in Draguignan, supported by local teams and a vibrant community that engages in both playing and watching the sport.
Basketball is widely played in Draguignan, with several clubs for different age groups and a focus on promoting the sport among youth.
Cycling is popular in and around Draguignan due to the scenic routes and the diverse terrain, attracting both recreational and competitive cyclists.
Swimming is a favored activity in Draguignan, with local pools and natural water spots that support both leisure and competitive swimming.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Draguignan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Draguignan provide vegetarian options such as stuffed vegetables, ratatouille, and salads. Le Gavroche and Les Comptoirs are known for offering vegan-friendly dishes.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find gluten-free items like socca (a chickpea pancake) and grilled fish or meat dishes at most restaurants. It's advisable to inform the staff about your dietary requirements for a tailored dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Draguignan with these cultural adventures.