Visit the old town of Hyères 2400 years of history
Hyères city center
The old town, perched on a hill and dominated by the ruins of the medieval castle of the Lords of Fos, is well worth a visit. As soon as you take your first steps, you’re transported to another era. The colorful facades and stone arches reveal the town’s medieval history. Narrow passageways lead to lively squares where restaurants and local craft stores mingle.
5 good reasons to visit Hyères
- Climb up to the castle for one of the city’s finest views
- Terrace seating in an Italian-style square
- Stroll through the narrow streets, wandering from stall to workshop
- Feel the atmosphere of Provence. Photograph it.
- Lose yourself in the gardens, intoxicated by the scent of Mediterranean plants
Provence atmospheres
From the Saint-Paul collegiate church and its ex-votos, to the Saint-Louis church, the Villa Noailles and the remains of the château, allow an average of 1h30 to explore the medieval town. Admittedly, access on foot can be steep, but the warm ambience, southern smells and Provencal colors soon make you forget the physical effort. On Saturday mornings, the Îles d’Or market gives pride of place to local produce. Seasonal fruits, tapenade, soaps: fill your basket in the old town of Hyères.
Our advice
Book Hyères au fil du temps or À l’école des chevaliers: two guided tour themes, the first for all ages, the second for 6-12 year olds and their parents, to immerse yourself in the medieval history of Hyères and explore its labyrinth of alleyways, accompanied by our tour guide.
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The remarkable gardens of Hyères
In the heart of the old town lie two verdant gardens: Parc Saint-Bernard and Parc Sainte-Claire. The first was imagined by novelist Edith Wharton, the second by the Vicomte de Noailles, a patron of the arts and a passionate botanist.
They overlook the city and delight visitors with rare exotic and Mediterranean species. A touch of serenity in the city.
The Villa Noailles, queen of creativity
Built in the 1920s by architect Robert Mallet-Stevens for the Vicomte and Vicomtesse de Noailles, the Villa Noailles embodies the artistic avant-garde and innovative spirit of its era. Today, its modern design is a source of inspiration for many artists, designers and creators. It is the scene of memorable artistic encounters, where creative minds push back the boundaries of art and architecture. Sometimes surprised, often impressed: the Villa Noailles leaves no one indifferent.
Focus on
The parcours des arts
How do you combine the pleasure of a heritage visit with atypical window-shopping? Hyères invites you to stroll along its winding streets, its town gardens, wash houses and shady squares, following the itinerary of the arts trail, so that architectural heritage and the enthusiasm of artistic creation resonate throughout your visit.
Stained glass artists, painters, potters, upholsterers, dressmakers, calligraphers, textile designers, illustrators, sculptors: in the heart of the town, dotted around the narrow streets of Hyerois, art studios welcome you all year round to share their passion for creation.
Frequently asked questions
What to see in the heart of Hyères?
The heart of Hyères reveals medieval streets, squares, artisans, cafés, perched gardens and historic heritage. An ideal way to discover the Provencal atmosphere of the old town. You can download a map of Hyères.
Why visit the old town of Hyères?
The old town of Hyères seduces visitors with its medieval charm, cobbled streets, views over the town and cultural attractions such as the Villa Noailles and its remarkable gardens.
Where to walk in the historic center of Hyères?
From the Porte Massillon, stroll through the narrow streets of the historic center to the collegiate church of Saint-Paul, the Templar tower and the gardens of Saint-Bernard and Sainte-Claire.
Is the heart of Hyères a good place for a stroll?
Yes, the heart of the town is best discovered on foot. Its narrow streets, staircases, passageways and terraces invite you to take a stroll through its heritage, artisan boutiques and Provencal atmosphere. The “parcours des arts” offers an interesting tour of the stores. Download the brochure.
What to do around downtown Hyères
Around the town center, discover the Villa Noailles, perched gardens, markets, exhibitions and guided tours to explore the history of Hyères from a different angle.