ProvenceAlpesCôte

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, often referred to as Provence-Alpe-Côte-d’Azur or PACA, is one of the ordinary regions of France. It lies in the southeast of the country, extending from the Mediterranean coastline to the edge of the Alps. The region is known for its wide range of landscapes, from the sunny shores of the Côte d’Azur to inland plains and high mountain terrain.

Administratively, PACA comprises six departments: Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Hautes-Alpes, Alpes-Maritimes, Bouches-du-Rhône, Var, and Vaucluse. The regional capital is Marseille, which also serves as the region’s largest city and a major port and economic hub. Other notable urban centers include Nice, Toulon, Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Cannes.

Geography and climate vary across the region. The coastline along the Riviera features a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers, while the inland and alpine areas experience more varied conditions and higher elevations. The Camargue delta in Bouches-du-Rhône represents a distinctive ecological area within the region. The region’s topography supports agricultural activities such as wine production in Provence and olive oil production, alongside a strong tourism sector centered on coastal resorts and ski destinations.

Economy and culture are closely linked to its natural and historical assets. Tourism is a major pillar, with resort towns on the Côte d’Azur and cultural sites in cities like Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Arles. The region is also renowned for Provencal cuisine and its wine traditions, including varieties produced in Provence and nearby areas.