Draguignan is a historic town in central Var, once the capital of the department and still an important gateway to the Haut Var villages and the Verdon region. By day, it has the lively atmosphere of a Provençal market town, while evenings bring a quieter rhythm to the cafés and squares of the old center.
The most interesting part of Draguignan is its pedestrianized old town, where narrow streets lead to small squares and historic landmarks. One of the town’s most recognizable features is the clockless clock tower, built in 1663 on the site of the original medieval keep. Climb up to the wrought-iron campanile for views over the rooftops and surrounding countryside.
Nearby stands the Église Saint-Michel, which houses a statue of Saint Hermentaire, the first bishop of Antibes. According to legend, he defeated a dragon here in the 5th century, giving the town its name.
Draguignan also has several excellent museums. The Musée des Traditions Provençales presents regional rural life through reconstructed kitchens, barns, and traditional objects, while the Musée Municipal displays archaeology, ceramics, furniture, and rare manuscripts.
Just outside town lies the prehistoric Pierre de la Fée dolmen, one of the most impressive megalithic monuments in Provence.