Top-Hotels in Istres

Istres is in the far south of France, situated on the coast between Montpellier and Marseille. It’s also a short distance from Nice and Monaco. The town enjoys an outstanding Mediterranean climate and features well-preserved Roman architecture facing clear blue waters. It’s a beautiful location that’s popular with international travellers seeking relaxation in one of the world’s leading holiday regions. Hotels in Istres are plentiful, with many sitting right on the coast or by the Étang de l’Olivier lake.

What can I see and do whilst here?

Istres faces the Mediterranean Sea and has a number of small lakes in town, as well as the large Étang de Berre lagoon on the edge of town. Water sports are very popular in Istres, as is hiking around the nearby Provençal villages and nature reserves surrounding the town. The architecture around Istres is particularly attractive, with a typical Mediterranean style and a number of impressive historical monuments dotted throughout.

What are the primary business activities in Istres?

Traditional industries including agriculture and fishing employ many local residents. There’s also a French Air Force base here, which employs thousands and relies on a number of supporting industries. Services such as retail and tourism are also significant contributors to the local economy. The Trigance and Tubé commercial parks are specialist hubs for service sector businesses, whilst highlights on Istres’ events calendar include the Wine and Gastronomy Fair and the Gestural Arts Festival. The town is well equipped for visitors and business travellers alike, with its proximity to Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport. Istres also has two passenger train stations and a freight train station that help drive the local economy.

What should I try to see when I stay in an Istres hotel?

Istres’ elegant hotels, calm ambience and proximity to major cities make it a highly desirable place to stay during a business trip. Nearby Monaco will be of particular interest to many, with its world-renowned Monte Carlo Casino and exhilarating Grand Prix fixtures. Istres itself has wonderfully well-preserved Roman ruins including aqueducts, around which the town has harmoniously built up over the years. Head to the coast or local lakes for sailing and sunbathing, and see the innovative water jet at Étang de l’Olivier. It creates a stunning swirling rainbow as it catches the sunshine.