Strolling the narrow streets is how most visitors pass time in St-Paul. The village has been beautifully preserved and the panoramas from the ramparts are stunning. The main artery, rue Grande, is lined with art galleries . The highest point in the village is occupied by the Église Collégiale ; the adjoining Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs was redecorated by Belgian artist Folon.
Many more artists lived in or passed through St-Paul de Vence, among them Soutine, Léger, Cocteau, Matisse and Chagall. The latter is buried with his wife, Vava, in the cemetery at the village’s southern end (immediately to the right as you enter). The dynamic tourist office runs a series of informative, themed guided tours (1½ hours, adult/child €5/free).
Across from the entrance to the fortified village, the pétanque pitch , where many a star has had a spin, is the hub of village life. The tourist office rents out balls (€2) and organises one-hour pétanque lessons (€5 per person, reserve in advance ).
