Things To Do
in Saint-Gilles
Saint-Gilles is a charming town located in the south of France, known for its picturesque streets and historic architecture. The impressive Saint-Gilles Abbey, dating back to the 12th century, is a notable landmark in the town. Visitors can explore the quaint town center, with its local shops, cafes, and restaurants offering a taste of Provencal culture.
Saint-Gilles is also a pilgrimage site, attracting visitors from around the world to discover its rich history and cultural heritage.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the local market, where you can find fresh produce and artisanal goods. This is a great opportunity to mingle with locals and sample traditional snacks.
Head to the historic Church of Saint-Gilles to admire its architecture and peaceful gardens. Spend some time wandering the charming streets filled with boutiques and cafes.
Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant that serves regional cuisine. Take a stroll along the nearby river to end your day with a scenic view.
Begin with a breakfast at a café, then take a scenic hike in the surrounding hills. The fresh air and beautiful views will set a refreshing tone for the day.
Bring a picnic lunch to one of the nearby parks and relax in nature. You can also enjoy some birdwatching or photography in the tranquil surroundings.
Return to Saint-Gilles and treat yourself to some local desserts at a patisserie. Spend some time in the town square enjoying the evening atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery with access to the Mediterranean Sea.
- Rich history and cultural heritage with charming architecture.
- Pleasant climate, ideal for outdoor activities year-round.
- Close proximity to other popular destinations in the south of France, such as Montpellier and NĂźmes.
- Vibrant local markets and excellent cuisine featuring fresh local produce.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season, which might detract from the experience.
- Higher cost of living compared to some other regions in France.
- Limited public transportation options may require a car for easier exploration.
- Some areas may experience seasonal flooding or erosion due to coastal location.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, particularly for non-French speakers.
Best Activities in Saint-Gilles
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails of Montagne de la Sainte-Baume, offering beautiful views, diverse flora, and fauna, as well as cultural sites like the Sainte-Baume grotto.
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the picturesque Var River, with dedicated cycling paths that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Discover the natural beauty of the Alpilles Regional Natural Park, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring charming villages.
Experience the tranquility of the RhĂŽne River while kayaking, suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers, offering a unique perspective of the region.
Enjoy a relaxing picnic at one of the many vineyards in the area, where you can savor local wines and regional delicacies amid picturesque scenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Saint-Gilles with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Saint-Gilles
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful beach with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, ideal for sunset photography.
A picturesque harbor filled with colorful fishing boats, offering excellent opportunities for capturing maritime scenes.
This lighthouse offers panoramic views of the coastline and is a great spot for dramatic landscape photography.
A scenic boardwalk along the beach, perfect for capturing vibrant beach life and sunset shots.
The historic church features beautiful architecture and provides great angles for architectural photography.
A wild coastline with rugged cliffs and dramatic waves, perfect for capturing nature's untamed beauty.
Just a short trip away, this neighboring town offers stunning views of the sea and charming old town streets.
A serene park that provides scenic spots for tranquil nature photography and family portraits.
Food in Saint-Gilles
Saint-Gilles Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender bull meat, seasoned with local herbs and grilled over vine shoots, giving it a smoky and aromatic flavor. This dish is a specialty in the Camargue region and can be found in traditional family-run restaurants like La Bodega.
Must-Try!
A traditional Provençal fish stew made with a variety of local fish and shellfish, flavored with saffron and served with rouille and crusty bread. La Table à Julien offers an excellent rendition of this iconic dish.
A type of Provençal bread, often flavored with olives, herbs, or cheese. Look for it at local bakeries such as Boulangerie de la Gare for a delicious snack or picnic addition.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Saint-Gilles better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide array of local produce, cheeses, cured meats, and freshly caught seafood. Visitors can also find food stalls selling ready-to-eat treats like socca, a chickpea flatbread, and regional pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Saint-Gilles, it is customary to greet people with a polite 'Bonjour' during the day and 'Bonsoir' in the evening. A light handshake is common among acquaintances, while a kiss on the cheek is common among friends.
When dining in Saint-Gilles, it is considered respectful to wait for the host to start the meal or to say 'Bon appétit' before starting to eat. Keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) and be sure to use utensils properly.
Dressing well is important in French culture, including in Saint-Gilles. Smart casual attire is often appreciated in social settings, so it's best to avoid overly casual clothing when going out.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Saint-Gilles with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Gilles
Ensure a smooth experience
In Saint-Gilles, France, tipping is not obligatory as service charges are typically included in the bill at restaurants and cafes. However, leaving a small tip or rounding up the bill is appreciated, especially for good service.
Most establishments in Saint-Gilles accept credit and debit cards, although some smaller shops or eateries may prefer cash. It is common to pay at the table in restaurants, and customers are generally expected to settle their bills at the end of the meal.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Saint-Gilles.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Saint-Gilles, as the weather starts to warm up and flowers begin to bloom. Expect mild temperatures around 15-20°C (59-68°F) and plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the local markets and restaurants.
Summer (June to August) offers warm weather with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). This is the peak tourist season, with numerous festivals and events taking place. Expect lively crowds, especially on weekends, and many outdoor activities like beach visits and water sports.
Autumn (September to November) sees a gradual cooling of temperatures from around 20°C (68°F) in September to about 10°C (50°F) by November. This season showcases beautiful fall foliage and is a great time for wine tasting and enjoying local harvest festivals. Expect fewer tourists and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Winter (December to February) is relatively mild in Saint-Gilles, with temperatures ranging from 5-12°C (41-54°F). While itâs cooler, the town is less crowded, offering a peaceful experience. Visitors can enjoy holiday markets and festive decorations, making it a charming time to explore the area.
Saint-Gilles at Night
Hiking in Saint-Gilles
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque hiking trail featuring stunning gorges and scenic views, perfect for nature lovers.
A trail that takes you through the beautiful ochre landscape, known for its unique rock formations and colors.
A dramatic natural amphitheater that offers various hiking routes with breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
A higher elevation hike that rewards trekkers with panoramic views of the region and lush vegetation.
A serene forest hike that provides a peaceful escape with well-marked trails and wildlife observation opportunities.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Saint-Gilles through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Saint-Gilles by plane.
Located approximately 45 km southeast of Saint-Gilles, it is the main international airport serving the French Riviera.
Situated about 70 km east of Saint-Gilles, this airport serves as a major gateway for travelers to southern France.
Located roughly 25 km northwest of Saint-Gilles, this is a smaller international airport that handles mainly seasonal flights.
About 60 km southwest of Saint-Gilles, this airport offers a variety of international flights and serves the Languedoc-Roussillon region.
Located approximately 40 km northeast of Saint-Gilles, this airport provides access to regional and seasonal international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Saint-Gilles, traditionally comprising the largest portion of the population.
This group includes individuals of Algerian, Moroccan, and Tunisian descent, reflecting historical migration patterns.
A demographic group that encompasses individuals from sub-Saharan Africa.
Includes individuals of South Asian, Southeast Asian, and East Asian descent, contributing to the multicultural fabric of Saint-Gilles.
This includes various other ethnic groups and communities that comprise the remaining population.
The Soul of Saint-Gilles
Discover the essence of Saint-Gilles through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Saint-Gilles, with many local clubs and a strong community following.
Rugby is also very popular in the region, with a number of teams competing at various levels and a passionate fan base.
Cycling is a favored activity due to the scenic routes in and around Saint-Gilles, attracting both recreational and competitive cyclists.
Athletics, including running and track events, has a strong presence in local sports events and competitions.
Tennis is widely played in Saint-Gilles, with several clubs and facilities available for both casual and competitive players.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Gilles.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local restaurants and cafes offer creative vegetarian and vegan dishes, often making use of the abundant fresh produce from the region. Look for establishments like Le Jardin des Sens, which specialize in plant-based cuisine.
While traditional French cuisine can be wheat-heavy, several establishments in Saint-Gilles cater to gluten-free diets. La Table d'Emilie is known for its gluten-free menu featuring local specialties prepared without gluten-containing ingredients.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Saint-Gilles with these cultural adventures.
