Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur is France's most sun-drenched region, stretching from the Rhône delta in the west to the Italian border in the east. It encompasses the world-famous French Riviera (Côte d'Azur) — Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez — the ancient Provençal heartland of Aix-en-Provence and Avignon, Marseille's rugged port culture, the violet lavender plateaus of Valensole, the turquoise-water Calanques, and the dramatic Gorges du Verdon. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, the region is France's premier year-round destination.
Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur is one of France's most visited tourist regions and generally well-policed in tourist areas. The French Riviera is very safe for solo travellers, families, and LGBTQ+ visitors. Primary concerns are beach theft, pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas, and forest fire risk in summer. Marseille is safe in all tourist areas despite an undeserved reputation; avoid northern suburbs at night.
Current safety advisory
Low To Moderate Risk. The Region Is Generally Safe For Tourists. The Main Hazards Are Opportunistic Theft (Beaches, Markets), Forest Fires (July–august Inland Areas), And Driving On Coastal Mountain Roads. Marseille Has A Higher Petty Crime Rate In Specific Areas But Tourist Zones Are Safe.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) in separate locations.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
Use registered taxis or rideshare apps. Avoid unmarked vehicles offering rides.
Trust your instincts — if a situation feels wrong, remove yourself from it.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
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- Tap water
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- Safe to drink throughout the region. In Alpine areas of Hautes-Alpes above 2,000m, treat mountain spring water before drinking.
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- Sun and heat
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- UV index is very high (8–11) June–August. Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours when on the beach. Heat exhaustion risk during July–August heat waves; drink at least 2 litres of water per day. Keep children in shade during 12:00–15:00.
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- Jellyfish
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- Mauve stinger jellyfish (Pelagia noctiluca) appear on the Mediterranean coast in summer. Stings are painful but not dangerous; treat with seawater rinse and vinegar. Check local beach reports.
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- Travel insurance
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- EU/EEA citizens: carry your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for free treatment at public hospitals. Non-EU visitors: purchase comprehensive travel insurance with medical coverage before departure. The EHIC does not cover medical evacuation.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
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