France, Var (83), Dracenie, Draguignan, tour de l'Horloge et son campanile en fer forgeFrance, Var (83), Dracenie, Draguignan, tour de l'Horloge et son campanile en fer forge
©France, Var (83), Dracenie, Draguignan, tour de l'Horloge et son campanile en fer forge|Camille Moirenc
The city of

Draguignan

Between Nartuby and the mild Provencal climate

At the edge of the Var department, Draguignan is the welcoming capital of the Dracénie, a region deeply rooted in local history. Nicknamed the “Cité Comtale”, the town’s unwavering attachment to its Provençal culture can be seen around every corner, in the bustle of its markets, the soul of its alleyways and the treasures of its museums. Here in Draguignan, the inhabitants, proudly known as the dracénois, can boast a multitude of activities. Whether you’re looking for cultural enrichment, relaxation, the discovery of new horizons, a shopping spree or the tasting of local produce, the town offers a rich and varied palette, reflecting the diversity of its inhabitants. As the capital of the eastern Var region, Draguignan’s charm and dynamism brighten the entire Dracénie region. As the gateway to the Verdon, the town’s authentic, multi-faceted personality invites you to explore the many facets of Provence.

Its shopping streets

Explore Draguignan’s shopping soul as you stroll through its streets, where charming boutiques and unexpected discoveries await you at every corner.

His wineries

The Nartuby plain is home to the vineyards of Draguignan, which embody the exceptional AOC “Côtes de Provence”, giving birth to a unique viticulture in the heart of the region. Taste them and enjoy Provence!

Stroll through downtown Draguignan

In a warm, human atmosphere

Under the imposing influence of the “Tour de l’Horloge“, Draguignan unveils a harmonious urban landscape, generously blending wide avenues, lively pedestrian streets and a variety of museums. It’s a true metropolis in its own right, embodying a warm, human atmosphere. Stroll down picturesque Rue Mireur, where butterflies twirl in the air and inviting restaurants make you want to stroll all afternoon. Or explore rue de Trans, a vibrant boulevard of artists and designers from all horizons.

For a shopping spree, head for Boulevard Clemenceau, Rue de la République and Rue Georges Cisson. Nearby, the Chapelle de l’Observance organizes exhibitions and concerts throughout the year for lively, cultural events.

Last but not least, take a trip to the Draguignan American Cemetery, the only one of its kind in the south of France. A place steeped in history, it offers a different perspective, inviting reflection and discovery of a lesser-known but equally important aspect of the region.

Museums to discover or rediscover in Draguignan

If you like to spend part of your day in cultural spaces, Draguignan is full of museums to discover.

Hôtel Départemental des Expositions du Var

Freshly inaugurated, this museum has taken up residence in an elegant structure in the very heart of the town center. It offers you the chance to explore captivating exhibitions, renewed at least twice a year, each dealing with a variety of themes. This initiative not only maintains the museum’s constant appeal, but also guarantees a dynamic and enriching cultural experience for art and history lovers who pass through its doors.

Musée des Arts et Traditions Populaires

Located in the heart of the historic district, this exceptional museum boasts one of the most prestigious collections of ethnographic objects in France. You can explore temporary exhibitions, take part in educational activities, and enjoy a specialized library and bookshop. Organized meetings and shows make this a lively place, offering a unique cultural experience for young and old alike.
Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the countryside and workshops of yesteryear, bathed in amber light.

Explore two centuries of daily life in Moyenne Provence, from the 19th to the 20th century, over three levels and 800 square meters. Discover rural inventiveness and craftsmanship through rooms evoking millers, winegrowers and shepherds. Round off your visit with a gallery of farm machinery and a large garden featuring a centuries-old olive tree, for a captivating immersion in the region’s past.

Artillery Museum

Immerse yourself in the heart of Draguignan, a city steeped in history and military prestige. Nestled in the fascinating Cité du Dragon, the Musée de l’Artillerie opens its doors to you for an extraordinary experience. Imagine exploring the two levels of this museum, unveiling the age-old mysteries of artillery. On the first floor, an eclectic collection of cannons, from majestic siege cannons to impressive anti-aircraft guns, will amaze your senses. Self-propelled guns and rockets tell a captivating story, transporting you into the strategic world of artillery. Continue your adventure on a mezzanine floor adorned with Napoleonic tents, where uniforms, re-enactments and tactile tactics come to life. A moving memorial takes you through the deeds of the French artillery, a rich history etched in time.

Practical info: And that’s not all! During the summer months of July and August, don’t miss the not-to-be-missed event, L’Été Contemporain. A real invitation to explore several exhibitions scattered throughout the city, from the Musée des Arts et des Traditions Populaires to the picturesque village of Bargemon, with unmissable stops at the Pôle Culturel Chabran.

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Draguignan

Welcome to the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Draguignan, a magical place where history and art meet in a fascinating collection ranging from the 17th to the 20th century. Imagine an architecture designed to showcase each treasure, and a scientific project vibrant with life. Since November 2023, the museum halls have become living spaces, revealing unique stories in every corner. Explore the new itinerary, designed to surprise you at every step. If you love Art, this museum is an artistic adventure where each work has its own story, and where art comes to life. Come and discover a captivating universe where emotion and beauty await you at every glance.

Practical info: please note that many temporary exhibitions take place in this museum. For more information, please visit the museum’s official website.

Theater of Draguignan

Come and discover the magic of the theater in Draguignan, an emblematic venue combining 19th-century history with refined modernity. Nestled on the main boulevard, the renovated and enlarged theater offers an exceptional stage, becoming a hotbed of artistic creativity. As a stage for all audiences and dedicated to dance, it illuminates the eastern Var region with its artistic diversity. Throughout the year, immerse yourself in a captivating universe where every aspect of entertainment and culture comes to life. Let yourself be carried away by art, spirit and emotion at the heart of Draguignan’s theater. An unforgettable cultural experience awaits you!

Visit the wineries in Draguignan

Sip Provence

Draguignan is home to a large number of wine estates. Explore the riches of the Var’s wine estates, where each vineyard reveals its unique character through its exceptional wine, panoramic views and remarkable architecture. Between hills and vineyards, discover a diversity of estates that captivate with their atmosphere, flavors and aesthetics. Immerse yourself in the art of wine tasting at estates that transcend the sensory experience, and let yourself be guided by a passion for wine.

Château Saint-Esprit

Take the road to Lorgues and discover Château Saint-Esprit, a family estate with a history spanning four generations. Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of this charming Provencal estate, where the experience goes far beyond simple wine tasting in the cellar, open daily in summer.
For a more immersive experience, Château Saint-Esprit also offers bed & breakfast or self-catering accommodation overlooking the surrounding vineyards. Let yourself be seduced by the idea of spending peaceful nights in the heart of this vineyard and experience the authenticity of Provencal winegrowing life.

Domaine Rabiega

Discover the authentic charm of Domaine Rabiega, an organic vineyard nestled in the heart of the Dracénie-Verdon region, where excellence has met hospitality since the 16th century. Stay at this country estate and experience the harmony between centuries-old winegrowing tradition and contemporary comfort. In this inspiring setting, you’ll have the opportunity to savor top-quality wines and indulge in gastronomic delights.

Domaine du Dragon

Visit Domaine du Dragon, a winegrowing getaway located in a picturesque district of Draguignan. On these 25 hectares in harmony with nature, immerse yourself in the tasting of an exceptional wine, the symbol of a strong commitment to quality and terroir. To extend this experience, let yourself be tempted by a stay in one of the gîtes, where comfort blends with the authenticity of the landscape.
Throughout the year, Domaine du Dragon comes alive with exciting events, creating a festive and convivial atmosphere. The cellar, open Monday to Saturday, invites you to explore their cuvées with passion and expertise.

La Sirène et le Coq

Explore a secret wine jewel in Draguignan with La Sirène et le Coq, an intimate and exclusive estate nestled just a few steps from the Pôle Culturel Chabran, in the heart of the city. This confidential estate covers 1.5 hectares, producing just a few thousand bottles a year with passion and meticulous care. Here, quality comes first, and each sip reveals the essence of an exceptional wine to be savored to the full. To discover these exceptional wines, tastings and purchases are by appointment only.

The Domaine du Bois des Demoiselles

Plunge into the heart of Provence and let yourself be seduced by the authenticity of Domaine du Bois des Demoiselles, nestled in the Argens valley at Draguignan. Between the Gorges du Verdon to the north and the Mediterranean coast, this 8-hectare vineyard emerges like an oasis in the heart of an unspoilt forest. The grapes, pampered by this unique natural setting, give birth to exceptional wines, certified Organic since 2013. Each sip transports us not only into the poetry of Côtes de Provence, but also into a passionate commitment to viticulture that respects nature. Come and share this oenological adventure with the owners, where nature, tradition and passion meet to create memorable wines.

Stroll along the Vigne à Vélo greenways

An immersive experience with a Provencal touch

Whether by bike, on foot, inline skates, scooter or skateboard, La Vigne à Vélo in Draguignan invites you to slow down for a stroll through the emblematic landscapes of Provence. An immersive experience in nature, marked by freedom and safety, where outdoor enthusiasts can also indulge in their favorite activity. The gentle slope of the terrain and the surrounding vegetation provide the ideal setting for a pleasant, shady stroll. Need a break? Picnic tables, benches and fountains are set up along the way for outdoor lunches and snacks.

Not-to-be-missed events in Draguignan

Sharing moments that leave a lasting impression

In Draguignan, there are plenty of opportunities to get together, whether for the Corso de la Saint Hermentaire, the Fête de la Glisse at Christmas, or other events that celebrate the diversity of the community. The Fête de la Musique, the July 13 military parade and fireworks illuminate the main boulevards of the Cité du Dragon, inviting everyone to join in the celebration. From heritage to contemporary culture, from Heritage Days to Museum Night, from the Autour du Vin fair to the salon collection passion, there are plenty of opportunities for those who like to make discoveries and enjoy sharing.

Nature and a rich terroir

The olive tree, its fruit and its oil

A land of olives by nature, Draguignan is home to four working olive mills, two of which are located in the heart of the old town. In Fontcabrette, in the heart of the countryside, olive craftsmanship lives on, while the hamlet of Flayosquet, nestled in the heart of nature, is home to an exceptional mill site dating back to the 13th century.

Lavender, rosemary, all flowers and Provence honeys

Our beekeepers perpetuate the tradition of Provençal honey, a practice that dates back to Roman times. The lavender variety, recognized by a red label, is a pearl to be discovered by these enthusiasts, while you let yourself be surprised by the other beekeeping delights of the Draconian countryside.

Estate and cooperative wines

In the heart of the Nartuby plain and on the surrounding plateaux, the vineyards of Draguignan give life to an exceptional AOC “Côtes de Provence”. Our winegrowers, who practice organic and sustainable agriculture, regularly win awards and medals at major competitions, testifying to their commitment and expertise. The local cooperative, affectionately known as “la dracénoise”, passionately produces white, red and rosé wines that rival the jewels of the region’s most prestigious wineries and estates. We also invite you to visit the wine cooperative Le Cellier des 3 collines, where vines and wine tell a story.

Le Malmont, an authentic immersion in Provence.

Rising silhouetted above the village, Le Malmont offers breathtaking panoramic views of the whole of Provence. In a landscape of garrigues, the eye escapes in the direction of the Sainte Baume, ventures towards Marseille, lingers on the Coudon, which watches over Toulon, then explores the Maures chain and the Esterel massif all the way to the sea. From the summit of Malmont, the magical view invites you to a true communion with the natural beauty of the region. If you’re keen to explore, take a family hike on the botanical trail (green signposted) or the Arbousiers trail (blue signposted), a great way to enjoy the natural surroundings just a stone’s throw from Draguignan.

The Nartuby, cradle of vitality

The land around Draguignan draws its prosperity from the generosity of the Nartuby river, which rises in Montferrat, flows through Ampus, Châteaudouble, Draguignan, Trans-en-Provence and La Motte before ending its course in the Argens at Le Muy. So many beautiful villages and towns to discover along this source of life. Stroll along its banks, between La Clappe and La Granégone, and you’ll have the opportunity to discover exceptional flora and fauna.

Places to see near Draguignan

Trans-en-Provence with its Himalayan footbridge and waterfalls

Just a few minutes’ drive from Draguignan, this place is well worth a visit. In Trans-en-Provence, enjoy a pleasant stroll through the village, where you can admire the superb surrounding waterfalls from the various bridges. A stroll will then take you to the famous Himalayan footbridge, rising 30 meters above the Nartuby gorges. An unforgettable experience for young and old alike!

Flayosc, its charm and its accrobranche course

Flayosc, a charming village near Draguignan, offers many reasons to visit. You’ll be seduced by its center, with its picturesque lanes and welcoming restaurants. As you explore the Flayosc area, you’ll discover cycle paths, including the Eurovélo 8, leading to other emblematic Dracénie villages such as Lorgues, Salernes and Sillans-la-Cascade. And don’t forget the family adventure of the Flay’Forest tree-climbing course, a must-see experience in Flayosc!

Lorgues, its market and good addresses

Located a little further from Draguignan, Lorgues is a must-see destination in the Var region. This charming town attracts visitors with its rich historical heritage, renowned market and variety of restaurants and stores. The cobbled streets reveal the town’s ancient history, while the bustling market offers a unique sensory experience, with its local produce and vibrant atmosphere. The many restaurants and boutiques add a modern touch to the mix, offering you an experience somewhere between traditional and contemporary.

Good to know

Numerous Provencal markets are held in Draguignan and surrounding towns. Don’t hesitate to come and enjoy the scents of Provence and meet the market gardeners, who will be delighted to chat with you. It’s sure to put some color on your plate!

Gourmet addresses

Miellerie Mandard

If you’re a honey lover, don’t miss a visit to Jean-Philippe Mandard’s honey house. This passionate beekeeper has been devoted to his craft for over 30 years! He offers an exceptional selection of the region’s classic honeys, such as lavender, rosemary and thyme, as well as more original varieties, like the delicious savory honey. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover unique flavors and support the artisanal work of a passionate beekeeper.

Pâtisserie Girard

In Draguignan, lovers of sweet treats have found their gourmet haven: Pâtisserie Girard, nestled along Boulevard Clemenceau. Although this patisserie was founded less than 10 years ago, it has conquered gourmet palates in record time with its mouth-watering creations: exquisite cakes, melt-in-your-mouth macaroons, delicious chocolates and savory confections. And don’t forget the ice creams, a real summertime delight for regulars!

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