Map of the Var

The Var is one of the 6 departments that make up the Provence-Alpes-Côtes d'Azur region. This department in the south of France is one of the most appreciated by tourists, thanks to its sweetness of life and its richness from a historical and cultural point of view as well as natural or gastronomic. The department is supervised by the mouths of the Rhône, the Alps of Haute-Provence and the Alpes-Maritimes. A large part of the Var territory is in contact with the Mediterranean Sea. Lachens Mountain is the highest point in the Var department. The name of the department comes from the river that once crossed it when borders were defined differently. At one time, the city of Grasse was even the prefecture of the Var. It's a fun fact to know when you know that the capital of perfume and flowers is now a city of the Alpes-Maritimes. The map of the Var has indeed evolved a lot over the centuries according to battles such as the annexation of the county of Nice. It's quite amazing and unique: the Var River does not flow into the department to which it gave its name! The map of the Var has 153 municipalities, the prefecture of the department is Toulon.

Map of the Var seaside

The Var is known for its seaside towns. Very popular with tourists especially during the summer season, the beaches of the department are literally stormed. Here are the most iconic seaside towns in the Var:

The city of Hyères

Hyères is known for being the city of palm trees. You can easily access the salt salts that offer sublime landscapes. Enjoy the many beaches the city has. But what we notice first when we think of Hyères is its proximity to the most beautiful islands of the Var. Porquerolles, Port-Cros and the Levant are just a few steps away. Take advantage of a day of your stay in the Var to discover one of these paradise islands.

The island of Porquerolles near Hyères

Clearly visible on the map of the Var, Porquerolles, is located on the commune of Hyères. This is the destination you will need if you want to discover new walks and enjoy swimming on white sand beaches for a day. The village square is the perfect place to enjoy an ice cream with your family. The doves coo and at the beginning of the summer the melodies of Jazz resonate. Finally you can discover the mill, Fort Sainte-Agathe and other monuments. From the main island, you can also observe the islet of the Langoustier located a few meters away, paradise of divers. Snorkeling enthusiasts will be thrilled! Many restaurants and a few shops can be found on this island which is dynamic.

Port-Cros, a nature island

Port-Cros is a marine reserve diving is therefore possible under certain conditions. This island is wilder than its neighbour Porquerolles and you can admire many endemic species of birds and plants. Photography enthusiasts will be happy to discover so many sublime landscapes.

The Levant an island where time stops

The island of the Levant is a pleasant island for lovers of hiking and insularity. Good to know, this island is also appreciated by people who like naturism. If you enjoy this way of life then you can enjoy the clear waters and tranquility of the place to recharge your batteries.

The famous Saint-Tropez

When you think of the Côte d'Azur and the Var, you inevitably think of Saint-Tropez. Often highlighted on the map of the Var, the city of "St Trop" has many advantages. This visit is an unmissable part of your stay in the Var. What you should definitely see when you go to Saint-Tropez:

• The Museum of Gendarmerie and Cinema;
• The Pre-Vauban Citadel and its museum;
• The church and its famous yellow bell tower;
• The Place des Lices;
• The "Micka Tropezian Pie" is a true brand known all over the world for its eponymous recipe. Enjoy this dessert popularized by actress Brigitte Bardot. The creator of this dessert has also created several establishments in this city where you can taste his signature recipe.

Saint-Raphael, the city of the Archangel

Standing at the corner of the harbour at the end of the Bonaparte garden, the archangel Raphael designates the city that bears his name. Accompanied by Tobie as in the famous myth, the Archangel watches over the city. Boats, sandy or pebble beaches, museums and shops make up the Raphael landscape. Some unmissables from the city of Saint-Raphael in the Var:

• The Louis de Funès Museum;
• The Archaeological Museum;
• The landing beach and its pebbles;
• the Golden Island (private, observable from the landing beach and from other points of view).
• The Dramont semaphore, ideal for hiking;
• The "Homes of the Belle Époque" circuit and the educational tablets along the route;
• Microfolie, a museum that thanks to digital technology, allows you to discover many collections of museums around the world.

The Seyne-sur-Mer

La Seyne-sur-Mer is a beautiful town located in the var a few kilometres from Toulon. You can visit the Villa Tamaris, where contemporary art is exhibited. The Seyne-sur-Mer is close to many interesting cities when visiting the Var. You can quickly get to Sanary, Toulon (and its many gardens and museums) or Bandol, near the island of Bendor which you can visit thanks to the sea shuttles. The Castellet is a few kilometres away, perfect for car enthusiasts who may be able to admire some of the races.

Map of the Var hinterland

The Var is not just the seaside! The less crowded hinterland is also a lovely place to visit. We present the must-see cities of the hinterland of the Var map:

Le Muy, a charming village

Located inland, Le Muy means "wet" in Provençal. You can discover different vineyards. There is no museum in this city, but you can take beautiful walks there. The most experienced hikers will be able to complete the "path of the three crosses", the less sporty will abstain. It is advisable to be well equipped and prepared for this hike. Near the Muy, you can also discover Roquebrune-sur-Argens, including the Arena Lake. The landscape is sumptuous, you can have lunch with the rock of Roquebrune and the water of the lake. It is possible to take walks on the water, by boat, pedalo or kayak. If you are staying near the Muy, we also recommend a visit to Draguignan, which is a few kilometres away.

The City of the Dragon, Draguignan in the Var

The dragon proudly stands on the flag of draguignan, the symbol of the dracennia somewhat recalls the origin of the name of the city. Although this story is controversial, this "mythological" side contributes to draguignan's interest. A few steps away, you can also pose in front of the Fairy Stone ("Peiro de la Fado") which, according to legend, was installed by a genius in the hope of charming a fairy. This dolmen dates back to long before the arrival of the Romans in the area. To visit in Draguignan:

• The house of the Burreau, traces the history of justice in Draguignan (law is taught in this capital of Dracenia) and in the Var;
• The Museum of Fine Arts in place of the former summer palace of Monsignor du Bellay;
• The clock tower (only by appointment);
• The Chapel of The Holy Savior and its colourful decoration;
• The chapel of observance, offers temporary exhibitions;
• The "Play Bach" festival.

Head to Aups to taste the truffle in the Var

Aups is without a doubt the most greedy city of the var. It is in around this city that there are the most truffle growers. On a regular basis, you can come to the truffle market to find the black diamond that will be part of your recipes. You can also visit the truffle house. This museum is a must-see that will inform you about the cultivation of this particular mushroom. The truffle festival usually takes place at the end of January, it will be the occasion of tastings and discussions around this black jewel. Several restaurants are located in Aups and specialize in truffle recipes.

Fayence and the villages perched in the Var

Fayence is a village of character that we like to visit. You can take a stroll and discover the thirteen fountains. Taking the road to discover Fayence is also to get closer to the villages perched like Mons in Provence. The latter has several dry stone sheds and a museum on navigation. An original idea: organize a walk to stroll through the alleys, between flowery balconies and old houses. Explore the villages of the Var hinterland! Don't forget to look up, there are sometimes surprises: decorated niches, statues, gargoyles and other local features.