Perched on a hill above Cannes, the village of Mougins is one of the most elegant historic towns on the French Riviera. The old village is arranged in circular streets inside 15th-century ramparts, with narrow lanes leading to small squares, art galleries, and restaurants.

The village retains traces of its medieval past, including the fortified Saracen Gate, while offering sweeping views across the surrounding hills toward the Mediterranean.

Mougins became internationally known in the 20th century when it attracted artists, writers, and celebrities seeking peace and inspiration. Among its most famous residents was Pablo Picasso, who spent the final years of his life in a house near the Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Vie.

Today, Mougins is also one of the gastronomic capitals of southern France. The village is packed with highly regarded restaurants, and the legendary chef Roger Vergé helped establish its reputation as a destination for refined Provençal cuisine.

Art also remains central to the village’s identity. The Musée de la Photographie houses a notable collection of photographs related to Picasso, while nearby attractions include the Musée de l’Automobiliste, a museum displaying classic cars, including rare Bugattis.

👉 Local tip: Visit in the evening when the restaurants open. The small streets become lively, and the illuminated stone houses give the village a magical atmosphere.