The early departure to Toulon was a great decision, as it allowed us to see the Côte d’Azur landscapes in the morning light before arriving at one of the most important maritime centers in France. Toulon shows a completely different side of the Riviera. It’s less about glamour and more about history, monumental warships and an authentic Provençal atmosphere.
The founding of Toulon dates back to the Phoenicians and Romans, who settled here because of the purple snails found in the area to make dye for the imperial togas. However, its true importance lies in its natural harbor, one of the safest and most defensible bays in Europe. In the 15th century, after Provence became part of the Kingdom of France, Toulon became a strategic military base.
The city’s golden age came in the 17th century, when the famous military engineer Vauban fortified the harbor and the surrounding forts. XIV. During the reign of Louis, Toulon became the center of the French Mediterranean fleet. The history books also deeply engraved the siege of 1793, where a young artillery officer, a certain Napoléon Bonaparte, won his first major victory here, which launched him on the path to world fame and the title of emperor.
One of the most dramatic events of the Second World War is also associated with Toulon: in November 1942, the French fleet sank its own ships here to prevent them from falling into the hands of Nazi Germany. After the war, the city was rebuilt, and today Toulon has become the most important base of the French Navy, where the proud aircraft carrier, the Charles de Gaulle, is often stationed.
However, Toulon is not only famous for its warships. One of the most beautiful parts of the city is the Cours Lafayette, where the famous Provençal market is held every morning. At this time, the air is filled with the scent of lavender, fresh herbs and seafood. This market is one of the most famous from Brittany to the Riviera and offers visitors a great opportunity to get a taste of the real local lifestyle.
The city’s skyline is dominated by Mont Faron, a 584-meter-high limestone mountain that can be reached by cable car. From here, you can enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the entire bay and the surrounding islands. Toulon is a unique blend of sea power, historical heroes and Mediterranean joie de vivre, making it a worthy stop on our trip.
