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Your Perfect Week in Provence: The Ultimate 7-Day Road Trip Itinerary

Wind your way through Provence’s fairytale villages and lakes, and you’ll quickly realize why this region has captivated everyone from Brigitte Bardot to Vincent van Gogh. Sure, you could make the drive from Nice to Avignon in just a few hours, but why skip over those iconic fields of lavender and scores of medieval châteaux? This week-long itinerary will help you uncover some of Provence’s best-kept roadside attractions—just don't forget to stop and swirl some rosé along the way.

See recent posts by Lane Nieset

Days 1-2: Nice to Gorges du Verdon (77 miles)

After spending one final morning basking on Nice’s legendary beaches, it’s time for a change of scenery. Pack your bags, hop in an Auto Europe rental car, and set your GPS for the village of Grasse, a hilltop village where the French perfume industry got its start in the 16th century. The hour-and-a-half-long drive follows the A8 highway, also known as La Provençale, which traces the French coast from the Côte d’Azur to Aix-en-Provence. Your first stop: a glamorous lunch at La Bastide Saint-Antoine , a manor house turned Michelin-starred restaurant surrounded by bougainvillea and chestnut trees, whose menu features decadent dishes like poached foie gras with turnip and coriander and potato gnocchi with truffle.

After fueling up, it’s time to get back on the road—this time bound for Castellane. In the heart of the Verdon Natural Regional Park, this Provençal mountain town is a perfect base for exploring the surrounding trails. Get your bearings during a walk to the top of the town’s defining feature—a large limestone rock that looms over the village, which supports the Notre-Dame du Roc chapel. From this vantage point, you’ll have sweeping views of the town’s rooftops and towers all the way to the valley of Verdon in the distance.

RELATED: 8 Incredible Places to Visit in the South of France

Of course, there are plenty of other great viewpoints from the summits surrounding Castellane, but save your strength and take the hour-long drive instead over to the village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and La Bastide de Moustiers , a 13-room country inn owned by culinary legend Alain Ducasse. Spend the rest of the afternoon napping in your four-poster bed, taking a dip in the pool that overlooks a vineyard, then dining at the Michelin-starred restaurant, where set-menu courses are delivered in a room awash with natural light.

Be careful not to fill up on too many croissants at breakfast the next morning. You’ll want to save your appetite for lunch, which the hotel can prepare before today’s day trip to Gorges du Verdon, the deepest and arguably most beautiful river canyon in Europe. One of the two main options for exploring by car is the Route des Crêtes, or “road across the crests.” The drive, which can take anywhere from an hour and a half to three to complete, follows a loop as it skirts around the top of towering cliffs.

Ready to take a dip? Point your GPS in the direction of the Lake of Sainte-Croix, famous for its signature turquoise water, located smack in the center of the park. Plop down on the shore and dig in to a gourmet picnic (think zucchini from Ducasse’s garden topped with summer truffles) prepped by the team at La Bastide de Moustiers. After your feast, spend some more time exploring the lake—be it by pedal boat or more swimming— before doubling back to La Bastide de Moustiers.

Days 3-4: Gorges du Verdon to Cassis (128 miles)

While it might be tempting to sleep in, this morning’s destination is worth waking up early for. Just 40 minutes away lies the village of Valensole, or “Valley of the Sun”—the very definition of Provence. Pastel-colored houses covered in antique shutters and wrought-iron balconies line the town’s streets, but the real draw here is lavender. Expect to make plenty of stops along your drive through the fields in order to snap photos and sample the area’s signature lavender honey from small roadside producers. JP Tip: Go in July, when the flowers are in full bloom, to see those purples really pop.

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Next up: the tiny town of Cotignac (population: 2,000), a little over an hour’s drive along the D13. Back in the 60s and 70s, it was known as the “Saint-Tropez of the Haut Var” because celebs would hole up here after partying along the coast. Now, you’ll find most of the energy on Tuesdays at the weekly market on the Cours Gambetta. Stroll through the stands, linger over a long lunch at one of the restaurants lining the square, like Café du Cours , then spend the rest of the afternoon on a walk through the old quarter, whose chapels and buildings date back anywhere from the 12th to 18th centuries. Back in town, the airy Mirabeau boutique is worth a visit for its award-winning rosés. Snag a bottle (or three) before heading up the hill to dinner at La Table de Fanette , a pale, stone-covered farmhouse surrounded by olive trees where curly-haired truffle-hunting dogs greet you out front. Feeling decadent? Go for the six-course truffle tasting—you won’t regret it.

Tonight’s bed lies just 30 minutes away near the town of Brignoles in another one of Alain Ducasse’s lodgings, Hostellerie de l’Abbaye de la Celle . The chef gave new life to this 12th-century Benedictine abbey, reopening it in 2011 as a 10-room hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant. The grounds, made up of vegetable gardens, vineyards, and cypress trees, are worth a stroll, as is a dip in the outdoor pool, which was built on Roman ruins and overlooks the abbey. If you can, request the Lucrèce de Barras Suite, which was a favorite of Charles de Gaulle’s.

See All Hotels in Provence

Say your goodbyes to the abbey. This morning, it’s off to Toulon, a town 45 minutes south known for its naval port, traditional “pointu” pointed fishing boats, and beaches shaded by pine trees. Take to the water on a boat tour of what’s been called “Europe’s Finest Bay,” or stay on land and soak up the views during the six-minute cable car ride up Mont Faron. Are you a sucker for vistas? Lunch is the best time to enjoy the picture-perfect views from the garden terraces at Les Pins Penchés , a Mediterranean restaurant nestled on a hill overlooking the sea.

One of Provence’s most famous wine regions, Bandol, is just a 25-minute drive west from Toulon and home to some of the best rosé in France. Get a crash course on the regional wine at Maison des Vins de Bandol , a boutique known for its variety of rotating vintages, before setting off to explore the vineyards yourself, pausing for tastings at wineries such as Domaine Tempier (the most famous in the region) and natural wine “pioneer” Château Sainte-Anne, a fifth-generation winery.

Today’s final destination is the tiny fishing harbor of Cassis, a 30-minute drive west from Bandol, where 120-million-year-old limestone calanques (steep-walled inlets) skirt the coast and vineyards wind their way down to the sea. Nobel Prize winner Frédéric Mistral once wrote, “Anyone who has seen Paris, but hasn’t seen Cassis, hasn’t seen anything.” After witnessing the mind-bending landscape and colorful fishermen’s village huddled around the mouth of the harbor, you’ll understand why.

Get a feel for the village vibes at À Table , a tucked-away restaurant on a narrow street near the port that’s become a local favorite for its small and seasonal menu (think shrimp risotto with vegetables and pan-fried squid with garlic and parsley). Bonus: your bed is just a 10-minute stroll away at the beach house-inspired Hôtel de la Plage Mahogany , where rooms look out onto the Mediterranean and guests have access to a private stretch of sand.

Days 5-7: Cassis to Avignon (114 miles)

One of Cassis’s biggest claims to fame is its proximity to Calanques National Park. It’s the only park in Europe that spans both land and sea, so you’ve got plenty of terrain to explore. Mini fjords and natural coves line the rugged coastline, and one of the best ways to see the most of them is by boat or bike tour . If you’d rather explore by foot, the most famous of the cliffs, the Calanque d’En Vau, is a two-hour trek from town. When you arrive back at port, take a seat for dinner in the intimate courtyard at Restaurant Angelina , where Chef Jean Marchal whips up revamped Mediterranean classics like fish soup and roast lamb.

After soaking up the beauty along the coast, head inland to Aix-en-Provence. Home to France’s third-largest collection of Baroque architecture, the city looks more like Paris than Provence, with terraces that spill out along the streets and boulevards lined with still-standing cafés that once attracted masters like Cézanne. Two must-dos for any first-time visitor include trying the city’s specialty, calissons (an almond-shaped candy crafted from candied melons and oranges), at one of its sweets shops and visiting the Hôtel de Caumont , an 18th-century mansion and art center whose historic rooms offer a glimpse into Aix’s gilded past.

For lunch, take a slight detour to Château La Coste , a vineyard and 28-suite villa (complete with deep-soaking tubs and private plunge pools) with a South American-inspired restaurant headed by Argentinian celeb chef Francis Mallmann.

See All Hotels in Aix-en-Provence

Another hours’ drive will get you to Arles, another city that inspired artists—particularly van Gogh. The provincial capital of ancient Rome still shows signs of its former life through UNESCO-listed monuments like its Roman amphitheater, Constantine’s Roman baths, and remains of the Roman circus. After you’ve gotten your fill of history, hop back in the car for the 30-minute drive to Les Baux-de-Provence, considered one of France’s most beautiful villages, where you can take in panoramic views over Arles from the remnants of a medieval castle that crowns the town’s rocky plateau. On your way out, pop into Moulin Castelas , an olive oil mill and shop at the foot of the château that supplies many gastronomic restaurants in the region.

Your bed for the night lies just 10 minutes away at the 20-room Hameau des Baux . Equal parts art gallery and boutique hotel, it’s modeled after traditional Provençal architecture and makes for a great place to zen out while practicing yoga in the pine groves.

For your final stop of the trip, set your sights for Avignon, a 40-minute drive from Arles that follows roads that hug the Rhône River. You’ll know you’ve arrived when you reach the Pont d’Avignon, the city’s iconic medieval bridge. The only way to see the city is to get lost walking along its impressive 14th-century walls and maze-like streets paved with river stones. After working up an appetite, pay a visit to Les Halles , a sprawling indoor food market marked by a vertical garden, where you can taste and buy all manners of cheese, breads, fish, and freshly picked fruits and vegetables. Afterwards, take a seat at 83. Vernet , a former 14th-century cloister turned restaurant and one of Avignon’s most fashionable addresses. Lingering over a coupe of champagne in the courtyard (be warned: it’s a weekend hot spot, so get there early) and admiring the space that’s become as much of a legend as the city itself is a perfect way to conclude a week living la bonne vie .

What to Wear in Provence

Women’s wrap dress outfit to wear in a lake town, shop the look.

Floral Wrap Dress

Open-Toed Shoes

Polarized Square Sunglasses

Halo Pendant Necklace

Nomad Burnished Leather Crossbody Bag

Men’s button-down shirt outfit to wear in a lake town.

Amazingreen Cologne

Royale Sneaker

Eco-Drive Watch

Regular Fit Short Sleeve Shirt

Slim Straight Leg Jeans

Women’s outfit for the most beautiful european places.

Tapered Pants

Dot Necklace

Phone Pouch

Men’s Outfit for the Most Beautiful European Places

Stripe Shirt

Federal Slim Straight Leg Jeans

Peace Sign Pendant Necklace

Brown Suede Belt

Chuck Taylor®

Women’s semi-dressy outfit to wear in italy.

Ultimate Coverage 24 Hour Foundation

T-shirt Dress

Cateye Sunglasses

Print Gauze Scarf

Wedge Sandals

Fancy men’s dinner in nyc outfit.

Trim Fit Solid Wool Suit

Easton Loafer

Yardley Eyeglasses

Dress Shirt

Women’s Swim to Walk Outfit

One-Piece Swimsuit

Espadrilles

Belted Shorts

Travel Backpack

Men’s swimsuit for a sexy hotel.

Gold-Plated And Briarwood Shaving Set

Plain Trunks

001 Man Eau De Parfum 50ml

Women’s Solo Travel Outfit for Someone On the Go

Casual Short Sleeve Shirt

High Waist Biker Shorts

6 Pack Headbands

Carry-On Luggage Backpack

Classic Sneaker

Men’s casual summer outfit for a flight (amazon based).

Bluetooth Headphones

Drawstring Walking Shorts

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The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Provence Itinerary

Last Updated on February 19, 2024

by Neota Langley

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Creating a 5 to 7 days in Provence itinerary may seem daunting but with so much on offer, it would be easy to miss out on some hidden gems. Provence is one of the most enchanting regions in France. Located in the country’s southeast, this picturesque region is known for its stunning landscapes, hilltop villages, and rich cultural heritage.

From the rolling hills of the Luberon to the dramatic coastlines of the Mediterranean, Provence is home to incredible natural beauty, history and charm and is a delightful region of Southern France.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Provence?

While you can explore some of Provence’s towns and cities, such as Aix-en-Provence, in just 1-3 days, the best way to see this varied region is by taking 5-7 days to discover more of the natural beauty and hidden villages.

With 5 days in Provence, you can explore some of the region’s main attractions, tour the famous lavender fields and sample local cuisine in the charming towns.

If you have a little longer, spending 7 days in the area is the best way to get a natural feel for the area without feeling rushed. This way, you can enjoy the main attractions whilst taking your time to live the ‘joie de vivre’ in the Provençal sunshine.

Getting To & Around Provence

Getting to Provence is relatively easy, with a wide range of public transport options that serve the region’s towns and cities.

The main airports for accessing Provence are Marseille Provence Airport and Nice Côte d’Azur Airport. These are both major airports with a plethora of international flights available. 

Several smaller airports serve Provence, including Avignon-Provence Airport, Nîmes-Alès-Camargue-Cévennes Airport, and Toulon-Hyères Airport. Depending on where you’re flying from, one of these airports may be a more convenient option.

The region’s buses and trains are efficient and affordable, connecting the major cities and towns. The high-speed TGV train is an excellent option for travelling between Provence and Paris or other parts of France. You can view train schedules here.

Once you have arrived in Provence, the best way to get around is by car and have a bit of a Provence road trip. If you need to hire a car, selecting a small vehicle is best, as the roads through the hills are narrow and winding. You can browse car hire options here.

Buses and smaller rail lines are available between connecting towns, but many villages and natural areas are only accessible by car, so public transport is not always a viable option.

However, that doesn’t mean hiring a car is a complete necessity. A wide range of full and half-day tours from the main towns allow you to hit the road and see the sights.

5 to 7-Day Provence Itinerary

Whether you are visiting Provence to explore the medieval towns and hilltop villages, see the iconic lavender fields or immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surrounding national parks, this itinerary is your complete guide to making the most out of this spectacular region. 

We have taken you on a journey of discovery from east to west, starting in Aix-en-Provence and ending in Avignon. Alternatively, depending on your preferred route, this itinerary can be followed backwards from west to east. 

Whether you want to see Provence in 5 days or have an entire week to spend in this scenic region, there is something here for everyone. The summer is the best time to visit Provence, especially if you want to see the rolling hills covered in blankets of lavender.

Visit in the spring or autumn to avoid the crowds, but bear in mind, the main attractions are usually only open from April-October.

Day 1 – Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is the perfect place to start on our journey through the region. Founded by the Romans in 123 BCE, Aix is incredibly charming, with bags of history and culture to discover alongside the beautiful natural surroundings. Although we will be based out of Aix-en-Provence for a few nights, it’s best to dedicate an entire day to this varied city.

The central hub of Aix is the Cours Mirabeau and the old town (Vieil Aix). Wander down the Cours Mirabeau to soak in this bustling town’s atmosphere.

This tree-lined avenue is home to some beautiful architecture, several iconic water fountains and classic Provencal cafes and bars where you can stop off for coffee, baked goods or regional wine. You can also take a walking tour  of the Old Town.

The old town is just a stone’s throw from Cours Mirabeau. Wander through the cobbled streets in the morning (8 am-1 pm) to browse the local produce markets. From antiques to charcuterie, fresh fruits and vegetables to tablecloths and crafts. 

Aix-en-Provence is recognised worldwide as the home of Paul Cezanne, a famous 20th-century post-impressionist artist. Here you can tour his last studio, Atelier de Cézanne, which is now a museum dedicated to Cezanne and his works. 

Rising behind Aix, you can’t miss the towering Mont Sainte Victoire. An iconic landscape that inspired some of Cezanne’s most famous works. If you are an avid hiker, 250km of varied trails through the pine and eucalyptus forests surround the peak, or you can summit the mountain in around 2-3 hours. 

This city is full of vibrant cafes, bars and restaurants. Try some of the regional cuisine in one of the many restaurants in the old town. Provencal cuisine blends classic French with other Mediterranean influences from Italy and Spain. You can also  take a food tour  to learn more about the city’s cuisine.

Choose between mouth-watering pizza and fresh pasta, delectable Spanish-style tapas, and traditional Niçoise dishes like the comforting ratatouille or the refreshing Niçoise salad. After dark, the city transforms, with late-night entertainment available in theatres, clubs and bars across the city.  

Where to Stay in Aix-en-Provence

Hôtel Le Mozart – Mid-range visitors will love this 3-star hote in Aix. There are a number of comfy rooms to choose from, there’s a great breakfast on offer each morning and they have a great location for exploring the city and the Provence region as a whole.

Hôtel Cézanne – A design hotel in the centre of Provence, this is a lovely place to stay. There are several double and king rooms along with some suites to choose from. Breakfast is also available daily.

Aparthotel Adagio – Offering studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments, this is a great option for those after their own flat. They also have private parking, a good breakfast and a lovely garden to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Aix-en-Provence hotels!

Day 2 – Verdon & Lavender Fields

Day 2, and it’s time for a day trip from Aix. Weave up through the hills, sprawling vineyards and lavender fields in full bloom. 

If you are looking for the perfect opportunity to photograph the iconic lavender fields, the area around the Valensole Plateau has the highest concentration of purple blooms with stunning backdrops of crumbling stone huts, gnarled trees and rolling hills.

Follow the D6 through the plateau, and you are guaranteed to stumble across some of the best photo locations. Keep an eye out for clusters of cars pulled over in laybys – it’s usually a sign that the perfect capture is a short walk away.

Stop off in Valensole for lunch, followed by a sample of some lavender gelato before continuing to the Verdon Gorge.  

If you don’t have a car or want to discover the most famous lavender fields without hunting for them, several tours are available from Aix-en-Provence such as  this half-day tour  or  this full-day tour .

The Verdon Gorge is a natural wonder known for its towering cliffs that fall into the turquoise waters of the Verdon River. It is the deepest gorge in France, and its stunning landscapes make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and nature lovers.

Park your car beside the Pont du Galetas. Standing up on this tall bridge, you can catch a glimpse of the gorge, but the best way to explore the winding river is on the water. Vendors offer kayaks, paddleboards, and pedalos. Bear in mind during the summer months, the water can get low, so you may only be able to traverse part of the length.  

Whilst the Verdon Gorge is not accessible via public transport, you can take a full-day tour from Aix. Spend the morning discovering the lavender fields, then enjoy an afternoon on the sparkling turquoise waters. 

Day 3 – Calanques and Cassis

A trip to Provence would only be complete with a trip to the stunning Mediterranean coast. The Calanques National Park stretches for 20km along the rugged coastline, with plenty of hikes and secluded beaches to discover along the way.

Start your day in Cassis, a traditional fishing port town on the eastern edge of the Calanques. You can explore this quaint town on foot within an hour, so arrive early and stroll along the marina, coffee and croissant in hand, before heading out into the national park.

There are endless trails to explore with towering cliffs, crystal clear waters and hidden villages. Head out on the Calanques de Cassis trail to see the best bits of this varied landscape in a day hike.

Starting in Port Pin, the trail meanders along the coast, eventually reaching the Calanque d’En Vau. Famously known as one of the best beaches in France, you will be treated to idyllic white sands, turquoise waters and towering cliffs with deep caves.

Allow around 3 hours to complete this hike, with added time to enjoy a picnic and take a dip in the azure sea. You can also take an organised hike if you prefer to go with a guide.

Day 4 – Luberon Valley Villages

The Luberon Valley lies to the west of Aix-en-Provence on the way to our next destination, Avignon. However, this stunning valley with its hilltop villages is more than just a through road.

Made up of three mountain ranges, this ancient valley is surrounded by sprawling vineyards, lavender fields, historical sites and charming hilltop villages. Five of these villages have official’ Les Plus Beaux Villages de France’ status (most beautiful villages in France), and it’s not hard to see why.

You could easily spend more than one day exploring these hidden gems, but for this Provence itinerary, we will visit the top 3 villages in one day en route to Avignon.

Our first stop is the Bonnieux, with panoramic views across the valley. Wander through the cobbled streets to reach the church, offering some of the best views across Mount Ventoux and beyond.

Stop in on the various art galleries that line the streets, or, for the baking fanatics, Bonnieux is home to the fascinating Boulangerie Museum, housed in a 17th-century building. There is no doubt that this is one of the most charming villages in Provence.

Next is the ‘Orange Town’, Roussillon. Nestled in an ochre ridge, this charming town is built using the surrounding stone, giving it a remarkable orange tint. Wander through the picturesque streets to discover the local crafts, galleries and cafes.

If you want to get a closer look at the vibrant rock surrounding this town, the ochre trail hiking path is a great way to get up close and personal with the quarries towering orange cliffs and deep canyons. There are two options for this walk, one 50 minutes and the other just 30 minutes. Just don’t wear any white as the minerals tend to stain.

The final village on our whistle-stop Luberon Valley tour is Gordes. The crown jewel of Luberon, we’ve saved the best for last. The cobbled streets are often used as film sets as they ooze classic Provencal charm. Discover a fortified castle, top-end restaurants and wine terraces, the local produce market (Tuesdays) and a contemporary art museum. 

Don’t miss the Sénanque Abbey, situated on the town’s outskirts. This 12th-century Abbey is still home to a community of Cistercian monks. Famous for its picture postcard setting, surrounded by blooms of purple lavender, it’s more than just a photo opportunity. Head into the Abbey to discover the ancient history and various lavender-based produce available in the shop.  

We end the day in Avignon, the perfect base for exploring the western side of Provence. Head out to dinner in the town centre to get a feel for this charming settlement before we discover more in tomorrow’s itinerary. 

Where to Stay in Avignon

Hotel Boquier – This cosy hotel is perfect for mid-range visitors to Avignon. Located in the centre of the city, they have a number of lovely rooms to choose from, on-site parking and a great breakfast available each morning.

Hotel De Cambis – Those looking for a little luxury during their Provence itinerary will love this plush hotel. Well-located for exploring Avignon, they have a range of wonderful rooms to choose from, daily breakfast and amenities like a restaurant, bar and room service to enjoy.

Chapelle du Miracle – For travellers after a private flat in Avignon, then these apartments are a good option. There are a number of flats to choose from, all fully furnished with everything you may need and they’re located in an excellent location for exploring the city.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Avignon hotels!

Day 5 – Avignon

Surrounded by towering mediaeval ramparts, Avignon is steeped in history. The town centre of Avignon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is an essential stop on any trip through Provence.

The city is best known for the Palais des Papes. This imposing Gothic palace served as the residence of several popes during the 14th century. Today, the Palais des Papes offers visitors daily tours providing a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the region.

Another iconic landmark in Avignon is the Pont d’Avignon, the remains of a picturesque bridge spanning the Rhône River.

Made famous by a catchy French song, ‘Sur le Pont d’Avignon’ (dancing on the Pont d’Avignon), only 4 of the original 22 arches remain. Washed away by the force of the Rhone, several attempts were made to rebuild the bridge, but it was abandoned in the 17th century.

Avignon is a foodie’s dream, with several Michelin-starred restaurants and high-quality budget-friendly options available. Showcasing the best of French cuisine, for a special treat, try La Mirande, holders of a regular Michelin star alongside a ‘green’ star for sustainability efforts.

For a more budget-friendly option, try EAT, a modest restaurant offering local cuisine just a short walk from the Pont d’Avignon. 

If you only have 5 days in Provence, Avignon is the perfect place to round off your trip with several onward travel options available from the nearby high-speed TGV train station.

Day 6 – Arles & Camargue National Park

Day 6 begins in Arles , a historic city known for its Roman ruins and artistic heritage. Begin with a visit to the Amphitheatre, an ancient Roman arena that once held up to 20,000 spectators.

From there, you can head up to the nearby Roman Theatre, which features stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Vincent Van Gogh is arguably one of France’s most famous artists. He produced several of his most famous works while living in Arles. Here you will find a museum dedicated to his works, including a self-portrait and a Provencal landscape scene.

After spending the morning exploring Arles, make your way to the nearby Camargue National Park, a unique natural area known for its wildlife and beautiful natural marshlands. This region is home to one of the most ancient horse breeds, the Camargue pony and the iconic horned Camargue cows.

Spend the afternoon exploring the sandbanks, one of the only places in Europe you can see wild Flamingos. There are plenty of laybys and wildlife hides where you can stop and watch these pink birds resting on one leg.

You can explore the narrow roads by car, but the best way to fully immerse yourself in the wilderness is by bike. There are several hire locations on the edges of the National Park, and the roads often have dedicated cycle lanes. There are also some day tours from Avignon such as this half-day tour.

Day 7 – L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue

To round off the perfect one week in Provence, our last stop is the ‘Venice of Provence’, L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue. Located just 30 minutes from Avignon, this charming market town is technically an island in the middle of the River Sorgue, connected by scenic bridges lined with brightly coloured blooms.

L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue is often referred to as Europe’s antique capital. Along with the temporary brocants, there are plenty of antique and vintage stores down every alley. You could easily spend the entire day hunting for vintage treasures.

If you can, visit on a Sunday (which is market day) to experience one of Provence’s best markets, with over 300 vendors selling everything from local produce to antiques, pottery, and baked goods. 

Just outside of L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue, on the road back towards Avignon, there is a little hidden gem worth a stop. The Grottes de Thouzon is a dramatic cave full of incredible stalactites and stalagmites. You can enter the cave on the 45-minute guided tour, where you will learn more about the geology and the accidental discovery of the cave.

If you are heading back towards Aix-en-Provence instead of Avignon , stop off at the Fontaine de Vaucluse. Here you will discover the source of the Sorgue, a mysterious natural spring.

No one knows exactly how deep this spring is, but during heavy rainfall, up to 200,000 litres of water rushes out every second making it one of the largest springs in the world.

You can rent a kayak from the village to paddle up the river or walk on one of the many trails that snake up through the woods.  

Have More Time?

7 days is plenty of time to soak in the golden sunshine, fill your camera roll with photos of ancient buildings, lavender fields and hilltop villages and enjoy some of the South of France’s finest cuisine. However, if you have more time to enjoy this magnificent region, keep reading to find out what else you can see and do in the surrounding area of Provence.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Located just 20km north of Avignon, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is one of the most famous wine regions, known for its bold Grenache-based reds. Protected by AOC status, 3,000 acres of vineyards across the scenic valley produce this iconic wine.

Of course, the most popular activity in this area is a vineyard tour and wine tasting. There are several options available to discover the wine for yourself. You can opt for a self-guided tour or book a comprehensive, organised tour. If you want to visit just one shop, head to the central Vinadéa.

This wine shop offers free tastings with over 250 variations to choose from. Or, wander through the vineyards surrounding the village, stopping off at tastings along the way.

Pont Du Gard & Nimes

Provence is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world. The Pont du Gard is a stunning Roman aqueduct just outside of Nîmes. Built over 2,000 years ago, it is one of the world’s most impressive and well-preserved examples of ancient Roman engineering.

The aqueduct was constructed in the 1st century CE to carry water over 50 kilometres from the Eure River to Nîmes. Today, Pont du Gard is a popular tourist destination. You can walk across the top of the aqueduct, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, or take a guided tour to learn more about the history and engineering. 

Inside the city of Nimes, there are plenty of Roman ruins to discover. One of the most famous landmarks in Nîmes is the Arena of Nîmes. This Roman amphitheatre was built in the first century CE. The arena’s exterior showcases a series of arches and columns, typical of Roman architecture. You would be forgiven for thinking you had teleported to Rome!

To learn more about Provence’s ancient Roman history, head across the street to the Maison Carrée. This temple is one of the best-preserved Roman buildings in the world and is now home to a museum showcasing the city’s history.

If city hopping is your thing, Marseille is the third-largest city in France. Located on the Mediterranean coast, this city is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and stunning coastal landscapes.

One of Marseille’s most iconic landmarks is the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, a stunning Catholic basilica perched on a hill above the city. Other must-see sights include the Old Port, a bustling harbour that has been a centre of commerce and culture for centuries, and the historic Panier neighbourhood, known for its colourful streets and arts scene.

Marseille’s trade history has heavily influenced its vibrant food scene, an eclectic mix of traditional French cuisine and North African and Middle Eastern flavours. Marseille also is poised as a good jumping-off point if you want to explore the French Riviera .

Provence is a must-visit destination in the South of France. Whether you are a nature lover, wine enthusiast, city hopper, history buff or all of the above, this region has something for everyone. Visit Provence in 7 days to make the most of the sights and activities, but don’t worry if you only have 5 days to spend. You can easily adapt this itinerary to suit any schedule.   

Are you planning to visit Provence? Have any questions bout this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Marseille Itinerary

About Neota Langley

Neota is a writer for The World Was Here First. Born and bred in Cornwall, she can usually be found with hiking boots on, ready to embark on an adventure. For the last 6 years, she has travelled throughout Europe in her self-built campervan with her trusty canine companion, Ivy. She loves exploring France, the Nordics and spending time in Alpine destinations.

Your article on the perfect 7 day itinerary in Provence sounds magical and the perfect way to see a region. We plan on visiting in Dec ’23 with 2 kids (4 years and 9 years old). Would you still recommend it?

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7 Days in Provence: One Week in Provence Itinerary

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 26th January 2023

Categories France , Itineraries

Last Updated on 26th January 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

Provence is a place where the land meets the sea, and where culture blends beautifully with the region’s rich history. As a result, the unique and varied Provençal landscape has inspired creatives for centuries, and the mountainside vineyards of the region produce some of the best wine in the world. Here’s how to spend 7 days in Provence : your complete guide and itinerary for spending one-week exploring this fascinating region.

Aix-en-Provence

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Stay | 2 Nights

Where to stay | Hôtel Le Pigonnet

Essential tour: Historical and gourmet walking tour of Aix-en-Provence

Day one: A ‘ city of a hundred fountains ‘ was how my friend described Aix-en-Provence to me when I went to visit her last year. And, to be honest, that description is pretty accurate. Once the inspiration for artists such as Monet, Renoir, it’s easy to spend a lost exploring the city, getting lost along its many sun-drenched streets.

The city was even once home to Cezanne (who is also now buried in the city’s cemetery).  If you’re interested in learning more about the artists who made Aix-en-Provence their home and in particular, Cezanne, you can take a self-guided walking tour of the city.

The starting point is the city’s tourism office, and there are brochures for the tour available at the help desk. Wander the cobbled lanes, visit one of the many museums, or indulge in a little shopping at one of the city’s many independent boutiques (and galleries) .

Throughout the city, there are also often local markets (where you can pick up fresh local produce such as lavender and tomatoes), as well as little churches and secret little cafés. It’s also worth noting that there are plenty of hidden gems in Aix-en-Provence which are also worth checking out.

Day two: After spending your first day in Provence exploring the town of Aix-en-Provence, head out into the countryside and get a real taste for the region (both figuratively and literally). Spend day two in Provence hiking nearby Montagne Sainte Victoire, which overlooks the city.

There are plenty of buses heading out toward the mountain from Aix, making this an easy day trip, even without a car. And besides, you can’t visit Provence and not visit a vineyard… After all, wine tastes best than  in situ and   on the very spot where the grapes were grown.

If you’re look ing for a guided excursion, then this half-day tour to Cezanne wine country incorporates a visit to two local wineries.

Stay: 2 Nights

Where to stay | Le Jardin d’Emile

Day 3: If there’s one place you should definitely visit during your 7 days in Provence, it’s Cassis (also the French word for black currant ). After hiking around the mountainside yesterday, today is dedicated to rest- French style.

Spend day three in Provence wandering around the port of Cassis, and getting your first feel for the Southern French coast. Overlooked by the Château de Cassis (once a Carolingian fortress, and now a luxury hotel) , the seaside town has everything you could want from a Provençal town.

Here, you can soak up some sun at the beach, enjoy an ice cream (lavender is a local delicacy and grows abundantly in the fields throughout the region) , or wander the streets of the old town.

Day 4: Spend day 4 of your Provençal tour hiking the ‘ Calanques de Cassis ‘. Often cited as one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the World, it’s most definitely a must-see Provence destination.

The chalky cliffs overlook an azure blue sea and form little-hidden coves all along the coastline, providing perfect little picnic and bathing spots. It’s the perfect hideaway from reality and will make you wish you were spending longer in this little piece of paradise.

The Calanques are so beautiful and rare, that they are now a designated National Park. They stretch all the way along the coastline to Marseille. And, although they could be explored over several days, one day is definitely sufficient to get a taste of this beautiful part of the world.

Stay: 1 Night

Where to stay | Grand Hotel Beauvau Marseille Vieux-Port 

Essential tour: Sunset dinner cruise

Day 5: This port city has been in use since ancient times, and as such, has plenty of things to see and do. If you’re staying in Provence for longer than a week, you could easily extend your stay in Marseille to encompass a couple of days- there’s certainly enough to see and do!

Whilst in the city of Marseille , make sure to check out Notre Dame de la Garde (a charming church sat atop of a hill overlooking the entire city) , the Vieux Port (in use for over two thousand years) , and Le Panier Neighbourhood (one of the most picturesque districts in the city) . For more inspiration, be sure to check out our guide to spending one day in Marseille .

Where to stay | Au cœur d’Avignon Maison d’hôtes et Bar à Vin

Essential tour: 3 hour walking tour and wine tasting

Day 6:  Founded during the Roman era, the ancient town of Avignon is perhaps most famous for its half bridge, lying in the middle of the River Rhône. All that remains of Pont Saint-Bénézet is on display in the centre of the water, the rest having been washed away at some point during the 17th-century.

Here, in Avignon, you can also visit the UNESCO world heritage site ‘Palais des Papes’ (built for popes fleeing Rome), and explore the town’s Roman past. Other highlights include plenty of hidden gems , fine dining experiences, and seeing the historic town walls.

Stay:  1 Night

Day 7:  To finish off your 7 days in Provence, spend a relaxing night in La Ciotat. Cute, quirky and a little off the beaten path, La Ciotat is everything you could want from a seaside French fishing village. The village was once the site for the first filming of a motion picture , and allegedly where the games ‘boules’ was invented.

End your blissful time in Provence by exploring the small alleys and cute eateries of this sleepy little fishing town. There’s even a small artificial beach on the fringes of the port where you can swim and paddle in the sea. Stuck on ideas for things to do in the town? Here’s how to spend a complete day in La Ciotat .

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Wednesday 27th of February 2019

I was amazed when I see Provence with my own eyes. It’s a must see! I highly recommend this place.

Wednesday 22nd of November 2017

Ohhhh Sophie, this itinerary is pure gold!!! Thank you so much! We will be in the Provence over the winter, I so have to visit now the Calanques de Cassis - I had no idea about this!

Six Ways to Explore France | Trips100

Friday 29th of September 2017

[…] one of her favourite regions in France – Provence.   Her helpful destination guide – How to spend 7 days in Provence  shares tried and tested tips and recommendations for the perfect solo […]

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Provence Itinerary: 5 Days of Enchanting Scenery, Historic Landmarks & Culinary Delights

• Isabelle Hoyne
• February 29, 2024

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Join me as I unveil a 5-day Provence itinerary through the vibrant and aromatic landscape of this glorious part of France. From strolling through the timeless streets of Avignon to soaking in the sublime sights of Gordes, I’ll guide you through the many gems I discovered and the authentic French experiences that make Provence a place that truly captured my heart.

Provence, there’s just something about it, isn’t there?

Those mesmerising lavender fields sprawling under the azure sky, age-old villages whispering stories of the past, vibrant markets that are a riot of colours, flavours, and smiles, and the warm, dreamy sunshine that seems to bless it all. This isn’t just another French region; it’s a slice of paradise that has totally captured my heart.

Every nook of Provence radiates a charm so captivating that you can’t help but fall in love. I’ve had the pleasure to roam this exquisite corner of France for a number of months and let me tell you, curating the best bits into a 5-day itinerary was like trying to catch the wind – a tad bit impossible. There’s a world to see and experience here that you’d need a lifetime to fully soak in.

But look, I get it – we’re all on a clock here, and sometimes all you have is a brief window to take in a place.

And so, I’ve wracked my brain and harnessed my experiences to distill the magic of Provence into this guide. It’s 5 days of pure joy, adventure, and exploration that’ll get you up close with the region’s gems. From the storied lanes of Avignon to the hypnotic vistas of the Luberon, I’ve stitched together an itinerary that’s filled to the brim with must-experience moments.

So, buckle up and join me as we embark on this vibrant journey, winding through stunning landscapes, beneath crystal-clear skies, deep into the heart of Provence.

Here’s how I recommend that you spend 5 days in Provence.

Essential links for booking your Provence trip

Transport : book your  train tickets here  and search for and book  car rentals here .

Top rated tours & experiences in Provence: ☆  Aix-en-Provence Food Tour ☆  Provence Lavender Fields Tour from Aix-en-Provence ☆  Avignon Walking Tour including the Pope’s Palace ☆  Châteauneuf du Pape Wine Day Tasting Tour (+ Lunch) from Avignon ☆  Avignon: Pont du Gard, Saint Remy and Les Baux Half-Day Tour

Cultured Voyages accommodation picks:

• Le Bristol  – well located, well designed | Avignon
• Hotel De Cambis  – rave reviews, stylish deco r | Avignon 
• Hostellerie do Château des Fines Roches  – luxury castle on vineyard  | Chateauneuf-du-Pape 
• Espace de l’Hers  – Provençal villa with pool | Chateauneuf-du-Pape 
• Hotel Particulier le 28  – family-run luxury | Aix-en-Provence
• Hôtel des Augustins  – charming & central | Aix-en-Provence

Table of Contents

Important considerations for your 5 days in provence, detailed 5 days in provence itinerary, getting to and around provence, have more time to spend in provence, provence itinerary for 5 days: faq.

Imagine yourself in Provence, a region soaked in endless sunshine, radiant with purple hues of lavender, and seeping with charm at every turn. It’s a space where every view could be a picture on a postcard, where time seemingly slows, allowing you to savour every second. But before we start plotting your journey, let’s untangle a few things that you need to keep in mind about this captivating region.

Provence vs the Côte d’Azur vs Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur

Often, travellers find themselves puzzled over the geographic composition of the area. What we commonly refer to as ‘Provence’ is actually just a fragment of the much larger and equally impressive region known as Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur .

This wider region includes six amazing departments in Southeastern France – Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Alpes-Maritimes, Bouches-du-Rhône, Hautes-Alpes, Var, and Vaucluse. This means the glamorous French Riviera – the Côte d’Azur, renowned for its azure coastline, swanky resorts, and star-filled film festivals, is also a part of this region.

So when you’re dreaming of Provence, you’re also brushing up against the allure of Marseille, the historic appeal of Avignon, the glitz of the French Riviera, and the majestic French Alps.

With a shorter time to spend, this itinerary is focused specifically on the delightful areas of Vaucluse and Bouches-du-Rhône. These spots offer an array of experiences that will quench your thirst for culture and cuisine in just 5 days.

As for the French Riviera, that’s a whole other (delightful) beast and one that I’ve dealt with separately on this blog ( posts coming soon ).

How many days are enough for Provence

While the region’s richness could fill a two-week itinerary, especially when you add the French Riviera, 5 days provide a good amount of time to uncover the heart of Provence. If you’re coming from another part of France, I’d recommend at least 3 days to experience a taste of what Provence has to offer.

Where to base yourself for this 5 days in Provence itinerary

Where’s the best spot to start your Provence adventure?

I’d suggest the historical city of Avignon. It’s not only the capital of Vaucluse but also a cultural hotspot, making it a perfect springboard for your itinerary. Imagine spending a few nights in the heart of the city before retreating to the tranquillity of the countryside with a stay in Chateauneuf du Pape.

If your wanderlust is calling you towards the sea, Aix-en-Provence could be a great alternative. Situated a bit further south but closer to the coast, it gives you an opportunity to deviate from this itinerary or to conclude your 5-day adventure if your next stop is the French Riviera.

Whether you decide on Avignon or Aix-en-Provence as your base, both cities offer a wide variety of accommodations. From luxurious hotels to charming bed and breakfasts, you’re sure to find the perfect place to rest after a day of exploration.

RELATED READING | top things to do in antibes

When is the best time to visit Provence

As for the question of timing, the beauty of Provence lies in its year-round appeal.

However, if you dream of wandering through the iconic lavender fields in full bloom, consider planning your visit between mid June and July. These mesmerising fields paint the Provençal landscape in a brilliant purple hue, an unforgettable sight that truly captures the spirit of the region.

However, do bear in mind that this is also a peak period for tourism, so booking in advance is highly recommended.

Outside of that, as for many destinations, the shoulder months of late spring and early autumn make for a fantastic time to visit. I was based in Provence from mid-March to June and, for the most part, found the weather to be glorious and the fellow-travellers to be lesser in their number.

ARRANGE YOUR CAR RENTAL | I always use Rentalcars when searching for and booking my car rentals, and did so for my time in France. As an aggregator, it compares all providers, presents clear information and has great searchablity. Browse Rentalcars here .

Now, it’s time to dive into the heart of Provence with this 5-day itinerary, designed to blend cultural immersion with the region’s culinary delights. I’ve packed quite a bit into this journey, yet the pace remains relatively relaxed. With an early start each day, you should find more than enough time to soak up the atmosphere of each stop, relishing the character and flavour of Provence.

However, should you be a late riser, or prefer to savour every stop, you might want to trim the itinerary a little. After all, the joy of travel lies not just in the places we visit but the pace at which we experience them.

This itinerary is designed with drivers in mind, providing the flexibility to stray off the beaten path and explore the nooks and crannies of Provence. However, don’t fret if you don’t plan on driving. With a few tweaks, it can be tailored to those relying on public transportation or guided tours, which I’ll deal with separately under each relevant day.

Coming up next, a breakdown of each day’s activities and destinations to ensure your time in Provence is as memorable and enjoyable as possible.

Day 1: Discovering the allure of Avignon

Useful information:.

Day 1 Highlights :

• Palace of the Popes
• Pont d’Avignon
• Les Halles d’Avignon
• Musée Angladon

Cultured Voyages recommended accommodation in Avignon:

• Le Bristol ( well located, well designed )
• Hotel De Cambis ( rave reviews, stylish decor )
• L’Observance Bed & Breakfast ( gorgeous guesthouse with pool )
• Les Précieuses Suites & Spa  ( gorgeous apartment with spa bath )

Top tours & experiences in Avignon :

• Avignon Walking Tour including the Pope’s Palace
• Tickets for Palais des Papes & Pont d’Avignon

Avignon, a city that wears its rich history proudly, is truly a gem of Provence. Its centrepiece, the awe-inspiring Palace of the Popes, is a sight not to be missed. But Avignon is not all about the past, its vibrancy as a university city, combined with a thriving arts scene that peaks during the annual festival, makes it as lively as it is historical.

The city’s architecture is a blend of Gothic and Romanesque styles, adding to its unique appeal. And the compact city centre? It’s an explorer’s delight, home to charming boutiques and winding streets that beg to be wandered.

Food lovers, too, are in for a treat. I lived here for several weeks and spent a fair bit of that time feasting my way through Avignon’s delectable dining scene, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint.

Avignon is the city where history comes to play, dancing across charming cobblestone streets and in the shadows of impressive architectural marvels. As you stroll down its labyrinthine lanes, you can’t help but feel a sense of awe, as if you’ve been transported back in time.

For me, however, the magic was in the everyday – savouring freshly baked pain au chocolats from a local boulangerie (La Violette), stumbling upon hidden squares, and simply watching the world go by from a cosy café terrace (Tulipe).

Yet Avignon is not just a pretty face. Its prime location and excellent transport links make it the perfect base for exploring Provence’s dazzling array of attractions, be it the Roman heritage of Arles, or the charming villages of the Luberon.

related reading for AVIGNON

• Best things to do in Avignon
• 24 best day trips from Avignon
• Best wine tours from Avignon

Morning in Avignon: Les Halles and historical sights

Wake up early and kickstart your day at Les Halles, Avignon’s bustling covered market. This lively food hub is a sensory feast, bursting with the colours and aromas of the freshest local produce. As you weave through stalls of succulent fruits, creamy cheeses, and fresh-from-the-oven pastries, you’ll quickly understand why locals love to start their day here.

With your appetite satisfied, make your way to the Palace of the Popes. This imposing gothic structure was the seat of Western Christianity during the 14th century. As you traverse the grand halls, chapels, and private chambers, you’ll step back into an era when Avignon was the centre of Christendom.

Just a short walk from the palace, you’ll find the Pont d’Avignon, or the Pont Saint-Bénézet. This iconic bridge, partially crumbled into the Rhone River, is a symbol of the city’s historic importance. With the old nursery rhyme ‘Sur le Pont d’Avignon’ echoing in your ears, it’s a poignant reminder of the city’s vibrant past.

Afternoon in Avignon: Wandering the city streets

As afternoon dawns, allow yourself to get lost in the maze of Avignon’s charming streets. Rue des Teinturiers, a picturesque cobblestone street, is a must-visit. Dotted with old water wheels and lined with plane trees, it exudes a certain nostalgic charm. As you stroll down this ‘dyers street’, you’ll find yourself stepping back in time, amidst the echoes of the city’s old silk-weaving industry.

Beyond the main streets, discover Avignon’s secret squares, tucked away, each a haven of tranquillity amidst the city buzz. Stop for a coffee or a glass of local wine, sit back and absorb the relaxed Provençal lifestyle that Avignon embodies.

As your day draws to a close, pay a visit to the Angladon Museum, a jewel nestled down a small back street that art aficionados should definitely not skip.

Imagine this: a home that doubles as a museum, its rooms brimming with carefully curated treasures, all the while retaining the intimate feel of an art-lover’s personal haven. The collection is impressive, housing pieces from a range of notable artists such as Modigliani, Cézanne, Van Gogh, and Picasso, to name just a few.

Having been there and savoured the experience of standing just a breath away from these masterpieces, I wholeheartedly recommend paying a visit. You won’t be disappointed.

And with that, you’ll conclude your first day in Provence, full of the sights, sounds, and flavours of Avignon. As the sun sets and the city’s stone walls glow warmly, you’ll understand why I fell in love with this place. But this is just the beginning – more Provençal adventures await tomorrow!

Day 2: The enchantment of L’Isle sur la Sorgue and the Luberon

Day 2 highlights :

• Isle sur la Sorgue Market (if visiting on Sunday)
• Sénanque Abbey

Top Luberon tours & experiences :

• Luberon Small-Group Day Trip from Avignon
• Lavender in Luberon Small Group Half-Day Trip

Driving time:

• Avignon to Isle sur la Sorgue: 51 minutes | 41km
• L’Isle sur la Sorgue to Rousillon: 31 minutes | 27km
• Roussillon to Gordes: 15 minutes | 10km
• Gordes to Sénanque Abbey: 10 minutes | 5km
• Sénanque Abbey to Avignon: 50 minutes | 48km

For Day 2 of your 5 days in Provence itinerary, I recommend branching out from Avignon to visit some of the regional highlights.

Starting off with L’Isle sur la Sorgue Market, I’ve included it because it’s the epitome of the vibrant, buzzing Provençal atmosphere. It’s a treasure trove of culinary delights and unique finds, making it a must for any curious traveller. Its proximity to Avignon makes it an easy and worthwhile stop, especially on a Sunday when the market is in full swing.

Gordes is a gem that exemplifies the charm and beauty of the Provence region. This hilltop village is all about the quintessential old-world charm, cobbled streets, stone houses and stunning panoramic views. Around an hour’s drive from Avignon, it’s a compelling glimpse into the relaxed, rustic lifestyle of the Luberon region.

Sénanque Abbey, nestled in a secluded valley, represents an important facet of Provence’s rich history and spiritual heritage. A serene contrast to the bustle of the city, the Abbey, just 50 minutes from Avignon, offers tranquillity and unique photographic opportunities, especially when the surrounding lavender fields bloom in the summer.

Roussillon, celebrated for its striking ochre cliffs and vibrant, pigment-splashed houses, brings an entirely different palette to your Provence itinerary. This enchanting village, a bit over an hour’s drive from Avignon, provides not only a feast for the eyes, but also insight into the region’s mining history through its Ochre Trail.

Each destination encapsulates a different aspect of Provence’s diverse allure, which is why they’ve been included in this itinerary. Their relative closeness to Avignon makes them perfectly suited for a day trip, and to combine together, allowing you to immerse yourself in the region’s many faces without spending hours on the road.

Morning: L’Isle sur la Sorgue market and Roussillon

Plan your visit on a Sunday, as the renowned L’Isle sur la Sorgue market comes alive on this day. Here, you can delight in the vibrant chaos that ensues as traders from around the region gather to sell their wares. From local produce, cheeses, and wines, to antiques and handcrafted goods, the market has something for everyone.

My tip: arrive early, explore the stalls, and make sure to sample the fresh fruits, mouth-watering patisseries and cheese. The sounds, sights, and smells of this bustling marketplace are a pure Provençal experience.

Then, we’ll make a move to the furthest point of our itinerary, the hilltop village of Roussillon. Known for its stunning ochre cliffs and quarries, Roussillon offers a distinctive palette of flaming red and orange landscapes that change hues with the passing sun. It’s like stepping onto an artist’s canvas. Take your time wandering through the village, where the same warm tones adorn the houses and cobblestone streets. And don’t forget to visit the Ochre Trail – Sentier des Ocres – a surreal landscape that’s worth the minor detour.

Afternoon: Gordes, Sénanque Abbey, and back to Avignon

After soaking up the hues of Roussillon, it’s time to head to another gem of the Luberon – Gordes. Perched on the southern edge of the Vaucluse plateau, Gordes is often touted as one of the most beautiful villages in France.

As you approach, you’ll see why. The stone buildings cascade down the hillside, gleaming in the Provencal sunlight, while the castle and church stand guard above the terracotta rooftops. Make sure to take in the panoramic views of the Luberon valley. The vista is nothing short of spellbinding.

Then, a stone’s throw from Gordes, you’ll find the serene Sénanque Abbey, nestled in a secluded valley. This active monastery is a perfect place to slow the pace. The Romanesque architecture, the peaceful monks tending to their chores, the fragrant lavender fields surrounding the abbey – it’s a snapshot of timeless Provence that fills you with tranquillity. Remember, this is a place of silence and respect, so tread lightly and savour the serenity.

As the sun begins to dip, you’ll journey back to Avignon, carrying with you the sights, sounds, and memories of a day well spent. The magic of the Luberon will linger long after you’ve left, its beauty etched in your memory. I promise you this: one day in the Luberon, and you’ll understand why this region has captured the hearts of artists, writers, and dreamers for centuries.

Day 3: A cultural immersion in Arles and Les Alpilles

Day 3 highlights :

• Roman ruins and Van Gogh in Arles
• Impressionist art at Carrieres les Lumieres
• Charming Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Top experiences & guided tours:

• From Avignon: In the Footsteps of Van Gogh in Provence
• Avignon: Pont du Gard, Saint Remy and Les Baux Half-Day Tour
• Half-Day Baux de Provence and Luberon Tour from Avignon

Drive time:

Note that Arles is also reachable independently via train from Avignon.

• Avignon to Arles: 51 minutes | 41km
• Arles to Les Baux de Provence: 31 minutes | 19km
• Les Baux de Provence to Saint-Rémy de Provence: 18 minutes | 11km
• Saint-Rémy-de-Provencee to Avignon: 35 minutes | 26km

As the third day dawns on your Provencal adventure, we’re going to swap the tranquil Luberon for a journey steeped in ancient history and artistic heritage. You’re headed to Arles, famed for its Roman ruins and deep connection with the tormented artist, Vincent Van Gogh, followed by an exploration of the charming region of Les Alpilles.

Arles’ rich Roman history and its association with Van Gogh make it a destination that art lovers and history enthusiasts simply cannot miss. The ruins, such as the Roman Amphitheatre, transport you back in time, while following in Van Gogh’s footsteps gives you a chance to understand the inspiration behind his famous paintings.

The short, 50-minute drive from Avignon makes this historical and artistic journey an easily accessible one. Alternatively, it’s even easier to reach by train (but your subsequent destinations on day 3 aren’t), which takes just 15 minutes.

Carrieres de Lumières is a unique and immersive art experience. The digital art exhibitions projected on the walls of the old quarry transport you into the works of world-renowned artists. Currently, the show is focusing on works of the Impressionists, connecting you with this significant art movement in a novel and captivating way. It’s a mere 45-minute journey from Avignon to this awe-inspiring spectacle in Les Baux-de-Provence.

Finally, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, with its postcard-perfect streets, charming boutiques, and an array of delightful cafes, is an authentic Provençal town. The relaxed and artistic vibe of the town, a short half-hour drive from Avignon, invites visitors to slow down, soak in the charm, and experience Provence in its purest form.

related reading

• The Best Things to do in Arles
• A guide to Saint-Rémy de Provence

Morning: Roaming in Arles

Begin your day in Arles, where the ancient and modern world converge beautifully. Here, you’ll walk through centuries-old Roman ruins while following the footsteps of Van Gogh.

For history buffs, a visit to the Roman Amphitheatre and the Theatre Antique is non-negotiable. I was in awe of the sheer scale of these buildings and the incredible detail of the stonework, even after thousands of years. You can almost hear the echoes of Roman crowds cheering in the amphitheatre and the haunting melodies of theatrical performances past.

For Van Gogh enthusiasts, a walk around Arles is like stepping into one of his paintings. Follow the Van Gogh trail to the famous yellow café depicted in ‘Café Terrace at Night’, standing vibrantly on Place du Forum.

Then, make sure to stop by the Cryptoportiques. Beneath the city hall, these Roman underground galleries are a reminder of Arles’s storied past, and I found the cool darkness a welcome escape from the midday sun.

Allow an allotted amount of time to simply wander Arles’ positively delightful streets also – it’s very easy to see why artists, Van Gogh included, were inspired by it.

Afternoon: Les Alpilles, art at Carrieres les Lumieres and charming Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Next, journey to Les Alpilles, where your first stop is the mesmerising Carrieres les Lumieres.

This former limestone quarry has been transformed into a unique art venue, where classic works are projected onto the cavernous stone walls, accompanied by stirring music. Be sure to buy tickets in advance; the show is highly popular, and parking can be a bit of a challenge. Walking through the immersive exhibition is like stepping inside an artist’s mind, surrounded by swirling colours and evocative imagery.

If you have enough time, stroll up to the town itself, which is located a little above the entrance to the quarry, to visit the castle ruins atop the rocky outcrop and to admire the sprawling views of the landscape below.

Lastly, make your way to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.

This lovely village is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. Amble through its charming streets, discover inviting squares, and pop into quaint boutiques. If time permits, I’d recommend a visit to Saint-Paul de Mausole Monastery, where Van Gogh once stayed, and the ruins of the Roman settlement of Glanum.

As your third day draws to a close, take a moment to reflect on your day. From Roman grandeur to artistic brilliance, from the lively streets of Arles to the serene beauty of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, the essence of Provence will hopefully have been well and truly captured in these experiences.

Day 4: A journey through time at Pont du Gard and Châteauneuf du Pape

Day 4 highlights :

• Ancient Roman engineering
• Immerse yourself in nature
• Wine-tasting in one of France’s most renowned wine regions

Cultured Voyage’s recommended accommodation:

• Hostellerie do Château des Fines Roches | luxury castle on vineyard (I stayed here)
• Espace de l’Hers ( Provençal villa with pool )
• Logis Hôtel Restaurant La Sommellerie (Boutique beauty with pool)
• La Pergola ( charming B&B in village centre)

Top rates tours & experiences:

• Châteauneuf du Pape Wine Day Tasting Tour (+ Lunch) from Avignon
• Chateauneuf-du-Pape Prestige Wine Tour (from Avignon)
• Half-Day Provence Pont du Gard and Wine Tasting Tour from Avignon

Driving Time:

• Avignon to Pont du Gard: 29 minutes | 26km
• Pont du Gard to Chateauneuf du Pape: 41 minutes | 41km

Note that you can reach both Pont du Gard and Chateauneuf du Pape by local bus from Avignon.

Day four presents a blend of natural beauty, historical discovery, and a touch of decadence. The Pont du Gard, an iconic example of Roman ingenuity, serves as a fascinating journey into the past. Its surrounding nature, complete with short walking trails, offers an opportunity to breathe in the tranquillity of Provence’s countryside. It’s both easily accessible from Avignon and a serene escape from the urban hustle.

Later, heading to Châteauneuf du Pape introduces a flavourful side of Provence. Noted for its rich, full-bodied red wines, this region holds a special place in the heart of wine connoisseurs worldwide. A wine-tasting experience here is more than just about savouring fine wines, it’s about immersing oneself in the region’s cherished viticultural tradition, which is just a short drive away from Avignon.

• A guide to visiting Chateauneuf du Pape
• Hostellerie du Château des Fines Roches – a review

Morning: Exploring Pont du Gard

Your morning begins at the breath-taking Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct that serves as a testament to the ingenious engineering of the past. Taking the effort to walk across this architectural wonder, you can appreciate its colossal magnitude, almost feeling the weight of the centuries it has gracefully endured.

For a moment of peace and tranquility, step off the beaten path and into the Mémoires de Garrigues trail. This 1.4 kilometre trail meanders through a typical Mediterranean landscape. Along the way, you’ll encounter olive trees, truffle-producing oaks, and dry stone walls that add to the rustic charm of the region. It was along this trail that I found my Pont du Gard highlight, relishing in the tranquillity and solitude of Provençal nature, almost undisturbed.

As you explore, traces of the Roman aqueduct that once linked Uzès to Nîmes reveal themselves, evoking images of a time long gone. With looped walks of progressive difficulty levels, you can find a path that suits you, making the exploration of the ancient aqueduct remains an adventure on its own.

Should you also wish, there is an extensive museum on site that explores Roman history and architecture, including the engineering of the bridge.

Afternoon: The wine landscapes of Châteauneuf du Pape

The afternoon sees you heading to Châteauneuf du Pape, an unmissable stop in any Provence itinerary, particularly if you appreciate a good glass of wine. Conveniently located near Avignon, this world-renowned wine region offers an immersive journey into the world of viticulture.

I highly recommend not only indulging in the local wine tasting but also considering a night’s stay amidst the lush vineyards. It’s a perfect break in your itinerary to recharge before moving on to Aix-en-Provence for the final day. We stayed at Château des Fines Roches, which has both a vineyard and a superb restaurant onsite and had a truly fantastic time.

The village itself invites leisurely exploration, where you can visit the ruins of the castle or pop into the many wine cellars scattered around the town.

If you are interested in the process of wine-making, a visit to a winery is a must. My visit to Chateau la Fortia was one of the most memorable experiences, its close proximity to the town making it all the more accessible. While you’re there, consider a visit to Chateau la Nerthe, another gem slightly further out of town.

Day 5: A leisurely exploration of the charming Aix-en-Provence

Day 5 highlights :

• Provençal markets
• Elegant boulevards and mansions
• The world of Cézanne
• Hotel Particulier le 28 ( family-run luxury )
• Hôtel des Augustins (charming & central)
• Château de la Gaude (exceptional luxury property outside town)
• Maison Du Collectionneur (boutique bolthole)

Top rated tours & experiences:

• Aix-en-Provence Food Tour
• Provence Lavender Fields Tour from Aix-en-Provence
• Luberon Market & Villages Day Trip from Aix-en-Provence
• Chateauneuf du Pape to Aix-en-Provence: 1 hour 20 minutes | 100km
• Avignon to Aix-en-Provence: 1 hour | 87km

Aix-en-Provence is the kind of city that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a more refined, stylish version of the French countryside.

Imagine a place where the Cote d’Azur’s chic vibes fuse seamlessly with rustic Provence and you’ve got something that comes close to what Aix is all about.

Strolling through the city, you can’t help but get caught up in the upscale atmosphere, with stylish boutiques, sleek cars and gourmet restaurants at every corner. Aix is also home to an authtentically rustic set of Provençal markets, which are a true sensory delight, bursting with vibrant colours, tempting aromas and the most scrumptious local produce you can imagine.

Yet, Aix isn’t just about high-end living.

The city also wears its cultural heart on its sleeve. A week spent here opened my eyes to the world of Cézanne, and the numerous independent art galleries and high-end furniture and design stores that are scattered throughout the city. They add an extra layer of sophistication and give you a taste of Aix’s thriving artistic scene.

It’s this blend of rustic allure and contemporary chic that makes Aix a must-include stop on any Provence itinerary.

Morning: An immersion in Aix-en-Provence’s charm

Starting your day in this upmarket, cultured yet lively city, you’ll find a unique blend of refinement and vivacity, the latter perhaps a result of the university that breathes youthful life into the city’s historic veins.

In Aix, the joy comes from the unhurried, savouring the atmosphere rather than racing through a checklist. Imagine sitting out on a sun-drenched square, nursing a café creme or a glass of rosé. There’s a certain serenity in the unhurried passage of time, a sense of being part of the city’s living portrait.

To get a glimpse of Aix’s opulence, take the time to visit some of the town’s elegant mansions. The Hôtel de Caumont stands out as an impressive specimen of Aix’s architectural grandeur.

Afternoon: Tracing the footsteps of Cézanne

Following a leisurely lunch, a stroll along Cours Mirabeau, Aix’s main thoroughfare, is an absolute must. Lined with leafy plane trees and punctuated by mossy fountains, it’s the perfect spot to experience the city’s pulse.

Your journey in Aix would be incomplete without a visit to the studio of Paul Cézanne, the city’s most famous son. Here, in the place where Cézanne created some of his most notable works, you’ll truly appreciate his influence on the art world.

To end the day, pay a visit to Musée Granet. This fine arts museum offers an extensive collection of works from masters such as Rembrandt, Picasso, Degas, Money, Gaugin and, of course, Cézanne.

If you’re continuing your French journey towards the Côte d’Azur after this 5-day Provence itinerary, consider an overnight stay in Aix. Its location closer to the coast makes it a convenient stopover.

As your last day in Provence concludes, let the events of the past five days sink in. From the serene natural beauty of Luberon to the Roman masterpieces in Pont du Gard, the charming streets of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence to the wine landscapes of Châteauneuf du Pape, and finally, the elegant beauty of Aix-en-Provence, your Provence adventure is sure to leave lasting memories.

Getting to Provence from abroad

There are numerous international airports that can serve as your gateway to France. The selection depends on your country of origin and airline of choice

Flying directly into Provence (Marseilles) :

Marseille Provence Airport is the main aviation hub in the region. After arriving, you can easily get to Aix-en-Provence with an Uber, as we did for around €65. If you plan to continue by train, you’ll need to get to the Marseille TGV station.

Flying into Lyon :

Lyon has a reliable and fast TGV service. During my visit, I flew from Avignon via Lyon. It initially seems like it might be far away, but this is a great option as Avignon TGV station can quickly link you to Lyon’s airport in less than an hour.

Flying into Nice and getting to Provence :

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is another excellent choice. It’s connected to Nice city centre by tram line 2. To get to Gare Nice-Ville (Nice’s main train station), you’ll need to connect to tram line 1. I found the tram in Nice fairly intuitive and easy to use. From there, you can catch a TGV train to Provence.

Flying into Paris Charles de Gaulle :

The largest and busiest airport in France, Charles de Gaulle is a hub for numerous international and domestic flights. There are direct high-speed TGV trains from the airport to major cities in Provence, making it a feasible option.

RELATED READING | Best Wine Tour in Nice, France

Getting to Provence from within France

Getting to Provence from within France is a straightforward process, thanks to the country’s efficient transportation system.

The French high-speed train, the TGV, provides a quick and comfortable journey from many major cities like Paris, Lyon, or Nice, directly into Provence’s core cities such as Avignon and Aix-en-Provence.

If you prefer the flexibility of a road trip, driving in France is quite manageable. The highways, or autoroutes, are well-kept, and clear signs will guide you to Provence. However, as you venture into rural areas of Provence, expect more narrow and winding roads – it’s part of the region’s charm!

And for those who are budget-conscious or seek a more local experience, bus services offer a cost-effective and authentic option for traveling to Provence.

Getting around Provence

Driving in provence.

Provence is well suited for exploring by car. The main roads are typically well-maintained, making it easy to navigate between cities and larger towns.

However, in the Luberon Villages and Les Alpilles, be prepared for narrow mountain roads, some with hairpin bends and steep drops. Take care as the hard shoulder can be very narrow, or even non-existent, in some places. Parking was manageable – on-street in some towns, or in car parks outside of busier centers. I highly recommend the Flowbird app for paying on-street parking fees conveniently.

Taking the train in Provence

France’s train system is excellent.

Trains run frequently, and larger cities and towns in Provence are well connected. From Avignon, you can easily reach Arles, Aix–en-Provence, and L’Isle sur la Sorgue by train. For the locations mentioned in this 5-day Provence itinerary that aren’t served by train, consider hiring a driver or booking a guided tour from Avignon if you’d prefer not to drive.

Bus services in Provence

Buses are a viable alternative for places where trains can’t take you.

Although bus services to the Luberon villages are available, I’d recommend a guided tour for this day if you’re not hiring a car, as buses can be slower and you may have to limit what you see. From Avignon, there are Line 707 buses to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, buses to Pont du Gard, and local buses to Chateauneuf du Pape village.

Some final tips for getting around Provence

Exploring Provence is an exciting (if not somewhat overwhelming) adventure, so here are sone parting things to keep in mind that will help you get around this stunning region.

Hire a Car :

By far the most flexible way to get around Provence is by renting a car. It gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and visit those more secluded and charming places that public transport might not reach. Just bear in mind, some of the country roads can be quite narrow and winding, especially in the Luberon and Les Alpilles areas. But hey, it’s all part of the authentic Provence experience!

Train Journeys :

The train network in France is pretty fantastic. Trains in Provence are comfortable, punctual, and connect all the major cities like Avignon, Arles, and Aix-en-Provence. It’s a stress-free option that allows you to sit back and enjoy the beautiful Provençal scenery. Just make sure to book your tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons.

Bus Services :

For some routes, especially to smaller towns and villages, buses can be a handy option. They might not be as quick as trains or cars, but they are budget-friendly and have their own quaint charm.

If you’re feeling active and up for a bit of adventure, why not hire a bike? Cycling around the vineyards, lavender fields, and olive groves of Provence is such a magical experience. You get to breathe in the fresh air, soak up the sun and really connect with the landscape.

Guided Tours :

For places that are trickier to reach on your own, like Luberon villages or Châteauneuf-du-Pape, consider taking a guided tour. It’s a great way to get some insider knowledge while making sure you don’t miss out on anything.

Remember, whichever method of transport you choose, always leave some extra time to get lost in the moment and truly savour your time in Provence.

If you find yourself with more time on your hands in Provence, consider yourself truly blessed. This region is chock-full of hidden gems, awe-inspiring landscapes, and unique experiences just waiting to be discovered. Trust me, with every extra day you spend here, you’ll uncover a new facet of Provence’s beauty and charm. Here’s how you can make the most of your extended stay:

Taking the time to really explore

Each city and town in Provence is a microcosm of history, culture, and gastronomy. Spend a few more days in places like Avignon, Arles, Aix-en-Provence or the Luberon, that have piqued your interest. Delve deeper into their narratives, explore local markets, try regional delicacies, or simply enjoy a leisurely cup of coffee in a picturesque square. Slow travel has its unique charm, and there’s no better place to indulge in it than Provence!

Venturing into other cities

Consider visiting the cities of Orange and Nîmes. Orange, known for its Roman architecture, is home to the impressive Antique Theatre, one of the best preserved of its kind. In Nîmes, the Amphitheatre, Maison Carrée, and the Tour Magne beckon with their grandeur. These cities offer a wonderful mix of Roman history, French charm and a laid-back Provencal vibe.

Exploring areas of outstanding natural beauty

Adding some natural wonders to your itinerary can be invigorating. The Camargue, a vast wetland, is renowned for its pink flamingos, white horses, and black bulls – a true spectacle of wildlife. Mont Ventoux, the “Giant of Provence”, is great for hiking, biking or simply enjoying panoramic views from its peak. If you’re an adventure junkie, the Verdon Gorge, Europe’s answer to the Grand Canyon, with its turquoise waters is perfect for kayaking, rafting or hiking.

Making Avignon your base

I have often found Avignon to be an ideal base for exploring Provence, given its central location and excellent transport links. You can find more ideas on how to venture out from Avignon in my related post, ‘24 Best Day Trips from Avignon’. You’ll discover options ranging from medieval towns, vineyards, to breathtaking landscapes.

Considering the French Riviera

If your definition of Provence extends to the glitz and glamour of the French Riviera, you’re in for a treat. With its stunning beaches, high-end shopping, and renowned culinary scene, it’s worth the visit.

As there’s so much to this stretch of coastline, I’ve dealt with it separately in another set of blog posts ( coming soon ).

Is it worth visiting Provence?

One hundred percent, yes! There’s a certain charm to Provence that’s almost hypnotic. The way the sunlight illuminates the old, stone buildings in the cities, how the countryside has an almost rustic feel that makes you want to explore every corner, the rich tastes and aromas of the local food – it’s an unforgettable experience. So, yes, whether you’re a sucker for history, a devoted foodie, or just love a good scenic view, Provence is definitely worth the trip.

What is the best month to visit Provence?

Provence is a beauty to behold all year round but if you want to experience that famous Provencal magic, I’d suggest going in June and July. It’s lavender season and there’s nothing quite like seeing those rolling fields blooming in various shades of purple. Plus, the weather’s just perfect for an outdoor adventure!

What is the best city to stay in Provence?

This isn’t a one-answer-fits-all kind of question because it really depends on what you’re after. If you’re into the vibrant energy of a larger city with a rich history, consider Avignon or Aix-en-Provence. But if you’re craving that quintessential small-town French charm, you’ll probably love Gordes or Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. The point is, each place has its own unique vibe, and you should choose one that resonates with you the most.

Is it better to stay in Avignon or Aix-en-Provence?

Both Avignon and Aix-en-Provence have their own distinct vibes. Avignon, with its strong ties to papal history and its beautifully preserved medieval city, serves as a great base for exploring Provence. On the other hand, Aix-en-Provence, known for its lively art scene, offers a blend of city life and the laid-back Provencal lifestyle. In the end, it’s all about what you want out of your trip.

Where should I base myself in Provence?

A lot of people, myself included, often choose Avignon as their home base when exploring Provence. Its central location and good transport links make it ideal for reaching different parts of the region. But if you prefer the quiet charm of smaller towns, places like Gordes or Saint-Rémy-de-Provence could be more your style. Just note that you will more than likely require a car if you plan on doing any sightseeing from smaller towns, as public transport won’t be as far-reaching or regular.

What is the best time to see lavender in Provence? When to visit Provence lavender Fields?

The sight of lavender fields in full bloom is a quintessential Provencal experience. To witness this, plan your trip anytime from mid June to mid July. Though it does vary each year depending on the weather, the end of June/start of July is usually a safe bet.

Where is the best place to see lavender in Provence?

There’s no place like the Plateau de Valensole when it comes to vast expanses of lavender fields. It’s like an endless sea of purple that’s simply breathtaking. Other spots worth checking out are the areas around Sault and the Luberon.

What is the best way to travel in Provence? Is it easy to get around Provence without a car?

Provence is best explored at your own pace, and having a car gives you the freedom to do that. It also lets you visit those hidden gems that public transport might not reach. However, if driving isn’t your thing, you can still see a lot of what Provence has to offer using trains and buses. You could also join a guided tour for a more convenient and fuss-free experience.

What is the most beautiful drive in Provence?

Provence is known for its scenic routes, but if I had to pick just one, I’d go with the drive through the Luberon region. The meandering roads will lead you through idyllic towns, vineyards, orchards, and, of course, those stunning lavender fields during the season. The route from Gordes to Sénanque Abbey is particularly picturesque, if not a little daunting!

Related reading for the South of France

Interior provence.

• Arles  |  Best Things to Do in Arles: From Van Gogh’s Legacy to Ancient Roman Ruins
• Avignon  |  23 Fabulous Things To Do in Avignon, France
• Avignon Day Trips  |  Best Day Trips from Avignon for Curious Travellers
• Avignon Wine Tours  |  10 Wonderful Avignon Wine Tours Worth Taking
• Is Avignon worth visiting?  |  Why It’s Worth Visiting Avignon: 11 Unmissable Reasons
• Châteauneuf-du-Pape   accommodation  |  Hostellerie du Château des Fines Roches – A Luxury Provençal Retreat
• Châteauneuf-du-Pape  |  Visiting Châteauneuf-du-Pape: A Journey Through a Historic Wine Region
• Saint Rémy  | A Guide to Saint Remy de Provence: a Provençal Paradise
• Where to stay in Provence |  Where To Stay in Provence: 10 Best Places + Accommodation Picks
• French Riviera
• Antibes | Things to Do in Antibes: 23 Must-Visit Attractions & Memorable Experiences
• Is Antibes worth visiting?  |  Is Antibes Worth Visiting? Discover Why This Riviera Gem Is a Must-Visit
• Cap d’Antibes Coastal Walk | coming soon
• Sentier du Littoral Wall  |  Walking the Sentier du Littoral of Antibes – Essential Guide
• A day in Cannes | coming soon
• Cannes wine tours | coming soon
• 1 day in Nice | coming soon
• Nice wine tours | 10 Fantastic Nice Wine Tours Worth Taking
• 4 days in French Riviera | coming soon
• 5 days in French Riviera | coming soon
• 7 days in French Riviera | coming soon
• Where to stay on the french riviera | Where to Stay on the French Riviera: 11 Best Locations (& Hotels)

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Hi there! I'm Isabelle, aficionado of immersive travel experiences and unique, luxurious hotels. You'll most likely find me camera in hand, or nerding out on research in advance of my next trip. A major foodie, history and scenery lover, nothing makes me happier than soaking in the atmosphere and culture of the destination I'm visiting.

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3 days in Provence, from Alpilles to Camargue's paddy fields

You only need to hear “Provence” to imagine its colours, scents and flavours… The unique landscapes and eternal pictures that Paul Cézanne captured in his work. But how about diving behind the scenes? Discover 3 days worth of things to do on your Provence holidays and embark with us on a road trip in the land of Cézanne, from Aix-en-Provence to the Alpilles, to the paddy fields of Camargue.

VISIT PROVENCE IN 3 DAYS: DAY 1, AIX-EN-PROVENCE

Are you wondering what to do in Provence to draw near to Cézanne? Lets us start at the beginning: Aix-en-Provence. “When you’re born there, you’re screwed, nothing else can take your fancy” he once said. And with reason, his home town embodies the enchanting essence of Provence. Drop your bags in one of our luxury villas in Aix-en-Provence and head off to uncover its secrets.

Wander randomly in small alleys

Start your walk in the Mazarin neighbourhood of Aix-en-Provence, located south of the old town. Once the abode of the high bourgeoisie, it now houses many a museum and cultural monument in majestic mansions. The 18th Century Hotel Caumont, for instance. Take a stroll in its art centre or settle down in its flower garden for breakfast, before continuing your tour of the neighbourhood. You will no doubt reach the Musée Granet on your way, where you will finally meet your distinguished guide: Paul Cézanne. Ten of his paintings are displayed here.

Next stop, the great artist’s workshop, nestled among trees at the top of Aix-en-Provence. Let the unique atmosphere of this timeless place course through you. Cézanne’s relics and souvenirs have been preserved intact since the painter’s death in 1906. It is on this very spot that he paid tribute to the Provence landscapes so dear to his heart. A nostalgic visit that sets the tone of your holidays in Provence.

Climb atop of Sainte Victoire mountain

Before heading to the Alpilles reserve, stop by at Sainte Victoire mountain. Located less than twenty kilometres from Aix-en-Provence, this limestone mountain reaches 1011 metres at its peak, piercing the azure Provence sky. You just need a glimpse to recognise it: it is she, Cézanne’s eternal muse, immortalised in over 80 of his works.

Roam around the restanque dotted footpaths, in the footsteps of Cézanne and his companions Zola and Baille. On the way, you will come across the vestiges of religious constructions such as the Chapelle Ermitage Saint-Ser, destroyed and rebuilt time and time again. The bravest will climb up to the Pic des Mouches, the highest point of the Sainte Victoire mountain, where you get a panoramic view of the landscapes of Provence. From the green plains to the top of the Alps and Mont Ventoux. Can you spot the sea in the distance?

VISIT PROVENCE IN 3 DAYS: DAY 2, THE ALPILLES

On the second day of your holiday, set course for the regional nature reserve of the Alpilles. You will drive about an hour through the rolling hills of Aix country to reach the limestone mountains bathed in sunlight. Let the cicada song and the sweet scent of fruit from the orchards guide you straight to the most beautiful villages perched on the Alpilles.

Fall for the charm of the hillside villages

Make a first halt at Eygalières. Perched atop a rock at the heart of the Alpilles Massif, it overlooks the vast olive groves and vineyards. Life here is peaceful, cadenced by nap time and the all-important “apéritif”. Stop by at one of the small cafés to sip a glass of anise-flavoured water while chatting with the locals. They are a living testimony of Cézanne’s Provence.

Get back on the road and head for Baux-de-Provence village. It too hangs on a ridge and is crowned by an old fortress, where you command an unparalleled view not only of the Alpilles but also of Arles and the Camargue. Wandering among the many historic monuments on foot will put a smile on your face.

Baux-de-Provence is not only about architectural heritage. The village is also home to several connoisseur favourite restaurants, like l’Oustau de Baumonière and its 3 Michelin stars, for instance. The 100% vegetable menu is our favourite, prepared with local produce, including from chef Jean André Charial’s own organic vegetable garden. It’s like being served the sun on a plate!

Drop your bags at Saint Rémy de Provence

Finish your day in the Alpilles with the unmissable village of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. There is no one way to visit, the best thing to do here is to get lost in the narrow streets of the old town and let yourself be guided by the rippling fountains. Walk through the doors of the many boutiques to discover Provençal craftsmanship: lavender or honey-scented soap, blown glass pieces and artwork, lacework and tapestries…

VISIT PROVENCE IN 3 DAYS: DAY 3, SOME TIME AWAY FROM PAUL CEZANNE IN CAMARGUE

You cannot visit Provence in 3 days without exploring the regional nature reserve of Camargue. Only fifty kilometres from the Alpilles, the difference in atmosphere is striking. Spend your last day on the waterfront, Paul Cézanne won’t mind.

Go back in time to the historic centre of Arles

Provence is famous for its rich heritage, and Arles is no exception. But here you go even further back, to the prosperous time of the Roman colonies. Begin your journey to ancient Rome with a visit to the legendary Arles arena. Back then, 20,000 spectators would come and watch gladiators fight. Today, the turmoil is no more, and quiet is king of this majestic place.

Take your time in the maze-like galleries before visiting the rest of the town. Roman vestiges are ubiquitous here, but the Provençal lifestyle has long since reclaimed its rights. The antique theatre – where plays are produced still today, the obelisk, and the baths of Constantine exist side by side with busy café terraces and traditional houses with coloured shutters. Without the shadow of a doubt, we are in Cézanne’s South, but also Van Gogh and Pagnol’s.

Meet the wildlife in the Camargue’s paddy fields between the Rhône and the Mediterranean

The final stop during our 3-day road trip: the Camargue paddy fields, located at the heart of the regional nature reserve. They are their own little world in the middle of the rolling hills of Provence. Surrounded by wild nature, hugged by the Rhône and the Mediterranean, it is its location that gives the Camargue its affluent wildlife. With a bit of patience, come and admire the birds in their natural habitat. No less than 277 species come to the paddy fields each year, flamingos chief among them.

If you have some time left, finish your weekend on horseback, another unmissable feature of the Camargue. Ride bareback and explore the marsh during the “golden hour” – unless you prefer a galop on the beach, as the sun turns in for the night. What better way to bring your 3-day visit to Provence to a close? Book your luxury France holidays with one of our luxury villas in Provence now and make moments to remember with Le Collectionist . There is a fruitful abundance of things to do in Provence - one of our favourite luxury holiday destinations . 

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Our Guide to the Most Unique Things to do in Provence

Discover our list of unique things to do during your luxury holiday in Provence for memories of fun, family and friends that will last a lifetime.

Follow Van Gogh's Footsteps in Provence

Follow in the footsteps of this tormented artist, a journey that will take you from the arenas of Arles to the heart of the Alpilles.

10-Day French Riviera & Provence Itinerary (+Local Tips)

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First time in the south of France, and looking for a cute Provence itinerary with a little sprinkle of French Riviera.

I spent August and September exploring Provence, from Lyon to Nice to Marseille and everything in between guided by the local recommendations of my host, friends in the area, and a French lover – because there’s nothing like dating a French man to put a pep in your step – and I have some gems to share! 😘

Here’s the best itinerary that gets you both the iconic Instagram-worthy spots and the local gems most blogs don’t write about:

• 4 Days: French Riviera: Nice – Eze – Villefranche-sur-Mer – Saint-Paul-de-Vence – La Madrague Coast ( local gem! )
• 6 Days: Provence: Arles – Gordes – Isle-Sur-la-Sorgue – Loirmarin – Saint-Rémy-de-Provence – Gorge du Verdon – Lavander Fields – Avignon – Cooking Class – Wineries – Aix-en-Provence

Because of the local guidance I had, I discovered things I otherwise would never have on my own – exploring areas like the Madrague peninsula where a more authentic French Riviera vibe still exists, or the wild Camargue region where horses run wild and flamingos roam the lowlands.

I learned to pay attention to the local festival schedules and market days for different villages because that’s where the French locals gather, I was educated on how to dissect and properly eat a croissant, and so many more little tidbits.

So in this 10-day French Riviera and (mostly) Provence itinerary, I’ve included all my local finds , favorite restaurants, a few hikes and beaches that tourists don’t know about, and things I learned about the southern French culture that just made me fall in love with it even more. I swear, I must have said “ I could live here ” a thousand times…

French Riviera & Provence Itinerary

Table of Contents

Southern France Itinerary Priorities

So with all that learning, here is how I went about thinking through this Provence itinerary:

✔️ A More Authentic Provençal Vibe .

For my due diligence prior to coming to France, I watched a ton of French-inspired movies and read A Year in Provence by Peter Mayle. I wanted to follow in his footsteps by digging into the Provençal culture more than check-boxing the iconic overtouristed sites.

✔️ A Home Base to Explore.

Provence is actually a pretty large region, and it’s best to have a central home base. Arles and Aix-en-Provence (the former capital of the region) are the most centrally located and have a cute local vibe and nightlife that I adore.

✔️ More Time Sightseeing, Less Time Driving.

While I do think renting a car is key for exploring southern France , there’s no need to be driving for hours every day to get somewhere. This itinerary is set up logically so you’re not on the road all the time .

DRIVING IN FRANCE: Driving in France is pretty straightforward and enjoyable! I recommend you rent a small car because the roads are narrow in Provence.

✔️ Culture, Nature, and Adventure

Cooking classes, winery visits, local markets, a coastal hike, and a little kayaking trip through the Gorge du Verdon are all part of the adventure. I’ve also sprinkled little things I learned along the way about the French in my itinerary – ya’ll, they are wild!

All in all, the vibe of this itinerary is super laid back, slow, food and wine-heavy, and full of iconic little French villages, local tips, lesser-known beaches and hikes, and my favorite spots from a month of adventuring in the region.

10-Day French Riviera & Provence Itinerary

The first couple of days of this itinerary focus on the French Riviera because I’m a maximizer and like starting a trip out on the beach. Then I shift into a full week of cute little villages, lavender fields, wineries, and all things Provence.

PRO TIP: If you only have 7 days in Provence , skip the initial part of my itinerary which starts with 3 days on the French Riviera. Fly into the Marseille Airport instead, and drive to your home base in Arles or Aix-en-Provence.

Although 10 days is just enough to get a taste of the Riviera and Provence, it’s a perfect start for a road trip. Let’s dive into the details!

Day 1: Fly Into Nice

🏠 Stay in Nice for 3 nights.

Nice, Marseille, and Avignon are the big cities that sort of hug the Provence and French Riviera area. Landing in any of these will be fine, as they are only a 2-3 hour driving distance apart. I started in Nice because its pretty, and on the beach, which makes for a great start to a vacation.

For a day in Nice, start with a walk along the Promenade des Anglais, aptly named because it was built by the Brits in the 1800s. Then, get lost in the colorful streets of Vieux Nice (old town) and check out the Cours Saleya flower market (best earlier in the day).

For lunch, you’ve got to try Le Cafe de Turin . I had whatever the chef was cooking that day, which included a bunch of cold fish in some sort of butter sauce – delicious! In the afternoon, hit up the Musée Matisse. Matisse actually lived in Nice for a big chunk of his life, and his vibrant art totally reflects the city’s vibe.

FUN FACT: Niçoise salads come from Nice, and are a a perfect reflection of the Mediterranean diet – fresh fish, local ingredients like tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, Niçoise olives, anchovies, and olive oil. While variations have popped up all over the US with random things added, the French stick to the original recipe, showcasing the freshest produce available that day.

Cap off your day at Colline du Château Park for some epic city views. There’s an elevator you can take up or take the stairs up where you can travel by a cute trolley train. Up in the park, there are lots of open spaces, sitting areas, and outdoor cafes that serve beer, wine, sandwiches, burgers, and ice cream. The toilets are 1€, and you can pay with your credit card.

And for dinner, I really liked Le Plongeoir . It looks like one of those places that’s just for show on Instagram, but trust me, the food is fantastic.

Nice is this perfect mix of history, culture, and great food. The city’s got a rich past, starting as a Greek settlement, and now it’s this bustling, artsy spot. This is why I recommend it for the start of the trip.

Where to Stay in Nice (3 Nights)

📍 Luxury: Arome Hotel – The decor is absolutely stunning, and the hotel is in the heart of the city, close to the beach, the old town, and tons of little cafes. 📍 Mid-Range: Residence Lamartine – Beautiful rooms, with a personalized welcome and complimentary treats – I love their attention to detail! This will feel like a high-end experience at a moderate price.

Day 2: A Day Along the French Riviera

Today is a full day of perfectly classic Riviera vibes! Less than half an hour away from Nice are the villages of Eze and Villefranche-sur-Mer. You are going to see these all up and down French postcards because they are so darn pretty and “French”. I know we’re in France, but I mean… they are extra French.

I recommend starting the morning with a drive to Eze on the M6007 regional road. This should take about 25 minutes.

Eze is this stunning medieval village perched way up on a hill with super pretty views of the sea. The place is like stepping back in time, with cobblestone streets and an old castle. Grab lunch here; the restaurants have these cute terraces overlooking the Mediterranean.

FUN FACT: Here’s a cool bit about Eze – it’s not just pretty views; it’s also famous for its perfume factories. You can actually tour the Fragonard Perfumery and see how they make all these amazing scents!

In the afternoon, head down to Villefranche-sur-Mer, only a 15-minute drive from Eze back towards Nice. Villefranche-sur-Mer is this colorful, laid-back seaside town. It’s got a bit of everything – history with its old fort, beautiful waterfront walks, and it’s a bit artsy too.

For dinner, pick a spot by the sea in Villefranche. The seafood is top-notch. After dinner, stroll down the seaside with a gelato before heading back to Nice.

Day 3: Medieval Villages & Perfume (Saint-Paul-de-Vence)

For the last day of Riviera vibes, I recommend heading inland to the towns of Saint-Paul de Vence and Vence, with a little early morning perfume detour – because I love me some “make your own perfume”!

PERFUME DETOUR: About a 40-minute drive from Nice is the Grasse Fragonard Perfumery . Entry tickets are free, but call ahead and see if they have spots for you to make your own perfume ! It’s like a 1-hour chemistry class, super cool! I walked out of there with my very own perfume and certificate.

Head back east to Saint-Paul de Vence for lunch – it’s going to be about a 30-minute drive. It’s this gorgeous medieval village that’s like a magnet for artists. The streets are lined with art galleries and studios, little boutiques, and shops, perfumeries, and artisan shops.

Grab lunch at one of the local cafes. The food is as amazing as the views. You’ll find some great spots with outdoor seating that are perfect for people-watching. Before you leave, make sure to walk along the town walls for some pretty views of the countryside – and take pictures!

FUN FACT: Did you know Saint-Paul de Vence became a hangout for famous artists like Chagall and Matisse? It’s like walking through a living art museum.

For the afternoon, head over to Vence, a town more low-key than Saint-Paul but equally charming.

Check out the old town and the Matisse Chapel, where Matisse designed everything, from the stained glass to the priest’s robes (control freak much?).

For dinner, Vence has some great bistros. The town’s a bit more laid back, so it’s a nice change of pace from the usual tourist spots. After dinner, head back to Nice. It’s a short drive, so you’ll be back in no time.

This trip is perfect if you’re into art and history , or if you just want to explore some really pretty French villages. Both Saint-Paul de Vence and Vence have this unique, artsy feel that’s totally different from anywhere else.

Day 4: La Madrague Coastal Hike (Local Gem)

🏠 Stay in Arles for the rest of the trip (7 nights).

Today we’re heading west into the city of Arles, where I recommend a home base for visiting all of Provence. From Nice directly to Arles is a 3-hour drive on the A8 toll road. But why drive directly when you could make this a day of adventure ?

Today is about beaches and a local hike recommended by my host, Dorothea, in La Madrague.

From Nice to La Madrague is about a 1.5-hour drive. And then from La Madrague to Arles is another 1.5-hour drive. I love spending the day on the peninsula before making my way to the heart of Provence.

La Madrague has an interesting cultural background. It’s not as commercialized as other parts of the Riviera, so it has retained a lot of its authentic charm . The area is known for its traditional fishing practices, and you can sometimes see local fishermen using techniques that have been passed down for generations.

HIKING DIRECTIONS: Park here and start the route by heading up towards Plage des Darboussieres . The whole route takes about 3 hours if you don’t stop and soak the sun on Plage de la Madrague towards the end. The trail will pop you out along the street – have a celebratory beer and aperitif at Le Grotte and then back to your car and on to Arles for check-in and dinner.

I loved the trail around the peninsula along the seaside because it has some of the most amazing views. And the beaches along the route are literally jaw-dropping. They’re less crowded than the more famous spots on the Riviera, so you can really relax and enjoy the sun and chill vibe.

La Madrague is like a little slice of paradise, a glimpse into the traditional Riviera lifestyle .

Where to Stay in Arles (7 nights)

📍 Luxury: L’Hotel Particulier – A beautiful property with a pool right in the middle of Arles. 📍 Mid-Range: Appartements “La Chambre D’Ami” – Fantastic location, a great little apartment with the perk of having a little kitchen to make small snacks.

Day 5: Arles & Camargue

Arles is a great home base for this Provence itinerary because it’s centrally located, smaller than Nice, but still has tons of options for eating, gelato-ing, and boutique shopping. Not to mention museums and cafes on every corner, with a charming old-town feel.

➡️ Loved this Private Walking Tour – an excellent way to get your bearings and see the main sites through a local’s eyes! ⬅️

Arles is famous for its Roman heritage, and you can see this in the well-preserved ancient structures like the Arles Amphitheatre and the Roman Theatre. The city is also famous for its association with Vincent van Gogh, who lived and painted some of his most famous works here, including Starry Night .

RANDOM ART FACT: Interestingly, despite creating over 300 paintings and drawings during his time in Arles, Van Gogh sold only one painting while he lived.

Favorite Happy Hour Spot : L’Arlatan Hotel Favorite Gelato: Soleileïs

Every summer, Arles hosts the renowned ‘Les Rencontres d’Arles’, one of the world’s first and most prestigious photography festivals – I’ve been to it, and it’s absolutely amazing.

Last little bit of info on Arles, in case you’re visiting in the fall – during the September Feria, there’s a weekend where the whole town comes alive with bands in the streets, paella, and (unfortunately) the tradition of bullfighting.

Day 6: Luberon Villages (Gordes & Isle Sur La Sorgue)

The next two days are dedicated to cute little French villages in one of the most iconic Provençal regions, Luberon.

PRO TIP: Stick to just two-ish villages a day in the same area. It lets you really soak in each place without rushing. Trust me, it’s the way to go!

First up, plan a day for Gordes and Isle Sur La Sorgue . The drive from Arles up north to Gordes is about 1 hour and 20 minutes, and I recommend taking the smaller regional roads because everywhere you look is a snapshot of that classic Provencal beauty.

Gordes is this stunning hilltop village with amazing views, cobblestone streets, tons of little boutiques, and gelato spots. I recommend you start your day in Gordes. Park here and walk into town for lunch in the main town square.

The walk back to your car along the edge of the town will help settle the food afterward – viewpoints and Instagrammers included. It is one of the most popular villages in Provence, after all.

FUN FACT: It’s so damn pretty that a bunch of films were shot here including A Good Year with Russel Crowe.

Nearby, and on the way out of town, you should check out the Abbey of Senanque . It’s like something out of a postcard with all the lavender fields – especially in the summer.

Isle Sur La Sorgue is another gem, especially if you’re into antiques. This is a great afternoon and dinner along the riverfront. Again, you’ll want to park a bit outside of the old town and walk the 5 minutes into the heart of the village.

Isle Sur La Sorgue has these cute waterways and is often called the “Venice of Provence”, which if you’ve been to Venice is not quite true, but I’m going to let it slide because it’s still pretty. The water wheels around the town are pretty unique – they used to be for silk and paper making, but now is just a pretty photo opp.

I recommend a nice stroll along the river and in and out of the little streets, shopping, and an early dinner in Isle Sur La Sorgue before heading back home to Arles.

Day 7: More Luberon Villages (Loirmarin & Saint-Rémy-de-Provence)

For your second day, hit Loirmarin and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. It’s about an hour’s drive from Arles to Loirmarin – again, take the national road, labeled N113.

A super authentic French thing to do around Loirmarin is Truffle Hunting – it’s an early morning start, highly recommend it!

Just a bit outside of Loirmarin is an excellent Michelin-star restaurant at Hotel Auberge La Fenière . Grab lunch here and then head into town and explore Loirmarin. Make sure you call for a reservation ahead of time. They do have parking on the premises.

Loirmarin has this beautiful Renaissance castle with a little wine cellar you can stop in at, and a really laid-back feel. Fun fact – the writer Albert Camus, whom I remember reading in college, used to live here and is even buried in the village.

ANOTHER CUTE VILLAGE: If you’re aching for a bit more adventure, a 30-minute drive north through the mountains is the little nook village of Saignon. Park here and walk into the town center for a gelato. It’s the cutest little town square, with iconic light pink buildings engulfed by ivy growing along the walls, and those Provençal window shutters that are straight out of a book. It’s not a big, touristy village, took me about 1.5 hours to explore – the best views are from Bellevue Rock .

In the afternoon, head back towards Arles and stop in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence . I had my best shopping sprees in this town, there are so many little boutiques open till a bit later, around 7 pm.

Have dinner in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, and then a quick 20-minute drive back home to Arles.

Day 8: Gorge Du Verdon & Lavender Fields

We go deeper into the Provence region, all the way to the lavender fields on top of the Valensole Plateau, the Gorge du Verdon, and the gem of the town, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie (my personal favorite French village in Provence).

The drive from Arles to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is about 2.5 hours, and I recommend taking the D-952 route so that you are driving along the lavender fields of the Valensole Plateau on your way to lunch. Stop anywhere here for photos – it’s a wide-open road, and you’ll spot quite a few people doing the same.

Lunch and gelato in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie ( park here ). Nestled within the Verdon Natural Regional Park and surrounded by towering cliffs, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is so pretty, that I visited it three times during my stay.

For a more traditional French cafe lunch, sit at the terrace overlooking the stream at Cafe Gourmandises . Then an apres lunch gelato at L’Etoile Givrée – Artisan Glacier .

Now is a bit of dead time in the mid-afternoon before dinner. This makes it a perfect time to head to Lake Saint-Croix and do some kayaking in the Gorge Du Verdon, just a quick 15-minute drive to the Kayak rental place – Activité Nautique .

KAYAK RENTAL : I rented a kayak for 3 hours and just took my time heading into the gorge. The prices are pretty reasonable at about $15 per hour. I would bring a water bottle and wear a bathing suit. They give you a waterproof sack to put your valuables in.

After taking all the pictures in the water and from the bridge of the Gorge du Verdon , head back to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie for an apéro (French for happy hour) at Le Bistrot des Apiculteurs Brasseurs. I had dinner at Restaurant Les Tables Du Cloitre and slowly made my way back to Arles for the night. Remember, it’s a 2-hour drive back.

DRIVING AT NIGHT: Don’t be scared of driving in France at night, even on the little regional roads. There’s hardly any traffic (or cars) and the roads are well-maintained with good reflective signage. It’s actually quite relaxing and pretty if you have a full moon.

Day 9: Cooking Lessons In Avignon

Today is about learning how to cook a few French dishes in the home of a local for an afternoon lunch and then exploring Avignon.

➡️ Highly recommend this French Cooking Lesson with Gina . You’ll be visiting the famous Halles market & having lunch on her terrace overlooking the Palace of the Popes! ⬅️

Avignon is most famous for its role in the Catholic Church’s history, particularly during the Avignon Papacy when the Popes lived here instead of in Rome. I’m pretty sure it’s because they discovered how freakin’ delicious French food and wine was, and ditched Italy for the South of France.

Here are the main sites to walk to after lunch:

• Palais des Papes (Papal Palace) : This is the star attraction of Avignon. It’s one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. The palace was the residence of the Popes in the 14th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Pont d’Avignon : The famous bridge in all the postcards showing Avignon. While it no longer spans the entire Rhône River, the remaining arches are a piece of history to be appreciated.
• Rocher des Doms : For the best views of Avignon, head to this beautiful garden perched above the city. It’s a great spot for a walk and a nap.

After Avignon, head back to Arles. Tomorrow is your last day and I therefore time to celebrate by getting wine tipsy.

Day 10: French Wine & Aix-en-Provence

No trip to Provence is complete without visiting its former capital of the region, the gorgeous city of Aix-en-Provence.

This is going to sound crazy, but hear me out – we are starting the day with a wine tour in the mountains near Aix. I know drinking vino by 10 am is wild, but ‘when in France’, and also… you’ll manage!

➡️ Start the day with this Small Group Wine Tour to Côtes de Provence St-Victoire! ⬅️

Now that you’re a little tipsy, time for some sightseeing. Aix-en-Provence, often just called Aix (pronounced “ aeix “), is a city in the south of France with a bunch of history, culture, and charm.

It’s known for its classical architecture, and gorgeous fountains, and has been a center of art and learning over the years. Even now, it’s home to several universities and art schools, contributing to a youthful atmosphere and fun dating scene – just scroll through Bumble for a quick look. 😘

The best thing to do is head into the old town center near Fontaine de la Rotonde, sit down at a cafe, and people-watch. Order some calissons , the city’s traditional candy, a delicious treat made from ground almonds, candied melon, and orange peel, topped with royal icing – holy shit, wow!

FUN ARTSY FACT: Aix is famously associated with the post-impressionist painter Paul Cézanne. He was born and raised here, and the city’s landscapes inspired many of his works. You can visit his studio, Atelier Cézanne, which has not changed much since he left it.

Day 11: Fly Home

Time to write some postcards, return your car, and fly out of Nice. Arles to Nice is a 3-hour drive, and give yourself time because there’s always traffic when you get to Nice.

You can also see if you can return your car in Marseille and fly out of Marseille Airport. This will be an extra fee, but it’s an option.

Map: French Riviera & Provence Itinerary

Here’s a map of all the little spots I mentioned in my South of France itinerary.

Below is the regional map of the French Riviera and Provence, with the Luberon and Verdon mountain ranges in the middle. It’s helpful to understand where the regions are in relation to the cities – because everyone talks about Provence with regards to “Luberon” and “Vaucluse”, etc.

Where To Stay In Provence

I started my trip by landing in Nice because I wanted to spend the first 3 days exploring the famous French Riviera. The rest of the itinerary is all about Provence, where I recommend Arles as a home base to explore. I ended up staying in a smaller village in Provence , but if I had to do it again, I’d go with Arles because it has more amenities without being overwhelmingly big.

Where to Stay in Nice

Where to stay in arles.

📍 Luxury: L’Hotel Particulier – A beautiful property with a pool right in the middle of Arles. 📍 Mid-Range: Appartements “La Chambre D’Ami” – Fantastic location, a great little apartment with the perk of having a kitchen. For a week’s stay in Provence, you’ll need that.

Getting Around Provence

If you’re heading to Provence, seriously consider renting a car – it’s what I did. No waiting around for buses or trains, just pure, spontaneous adventure. Plus, some of the most charming spots in Provence are tucked away in places you can only get to by car.

➡️ I use Discover Cars to check prices in France! ⬅️

Driving in Provence is a treat in itself. Imagine cruising through landscapes straight out of a painting – lavender fields, vineyards, the works.

If you’re going with family or friends, it’s a no-brainer. You all pile in, share the costs, and it’s way more fun and cost-effective than buying a bunch of train tickets.

✈️ Flying to Provence

When traveling to Provence, there are several major airports you can consider, each in a different part of the region.

• Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) : This is the largest airport in the Provence region and the most convenient. It’s located about 27 kilometers northwest of Marseille and serves as a primary gateway to the region.
• Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) : While technically in the French Riviera, this airport is a popular choice for people also wanting a little beach life added to the Provence itinerary. It’s the third busiest airport in France and has a bunch of international and domestic flights.

I like to fly to Nice because it’s one of the prettier cities. I then rent a car, and slowly make my way west through the French Riviera into the heart of Provence.

🚂 Getting Around Provence By Train

Traveling around Provence by train is the second best option to renting a car.

The main train line in Provence runs from Marseille to Nice, stopping at major cities and towns like Aix-en-Provence, Toulon, Cannes, and Antibes. There’s also a line connecting Marseille to Avignon, with stops in smaller towns like Arles and Nîmes.

PRO TIP: One of the advantages of staying in Arles or Aix-en-Provence is that they are on the train route.

Ticket prices vary depending on the distance and type of train. High-speed TGV trains are more expensive but faster, while regional TER trains are more affordable but slower. A one-way ticket on a TER train for a short journey might cost around €10-€20, while longer journeys on TGV can range from €30 to over €100.

Make sure you book in advance , especially for TGV trains. It can save you money and ensure that you actually have a seat. Also, be aware that space for luggage can be limited on trains, so pack light.

There is also the regional bus system and FlixBus, but I recommend either renting a car or using the train system to get around Provence.

Do I need a car in Provence?

Yes, I recommend renting a car in Provence. Most of this itinerary and hilltop villages are only accessible by car, giving you maximum freedom to do whatever the hell you want, whenever you want.

Travel Tips for Visiting Provence

There are a few quirky things about visiting Provence. To add a few bits of advice to this itinerary, here are some tips and frequently asked questions that I had when I was planning my trip.

How many days do I need in Provence?

I suggest spending at least a week. This gives you the space to explore at a pace that lets you absorb the essence of Provence – slow and steady. A week gives you time to hit up a couple of the Luberon villages, wander through the markets in Aix-en-Provence, kayak the Gorge Du Verdon, do a few coastal hikes, and get your foodie fix in Avignon. Less than this will have you rushing and missing a few iconic things.

What is the best month to visit the South of France?

I think the best month to visit Provence is October (or September) because that’s when a lot of the tourists have left, all the French come back out, the restaurants are not packed, the traffic in all the villages and on the roads is manageable, the harvest is in, and the temperatures have begun to cool down without it being cold.

Final Thoughts: A Perfect Provence Itinerary

When I was doing research, I had a hard time figuring out where Provence was geographically and what was part of it/what wasn’t, where the best home base was going to be, and how to maximize my drive times and route so I could balance being outdoors, seeing the sites, and stuffing my face full of croissants.

To really maximize this 10-day Provence itinerary, you will need to rent a car. With the freedom of your own vehicle, you can navigate from the ritzy French Riviera to the rustic beauty of the Luberon villages, and won’t be missing a beat of what Provence has to offer.

Here’s the best route that optimizes driving time:

Day 1: Fly into Nice Day 2: French Rivera – Eze & Villefrenche-sur-Mer Day 3: French Riviera – Perfumery & Saint-Paul-de-Vence Day 4: French Riviera – La Madrague Coastal Hike (Local Gem!) Day 5: Arles & Camargue Region Day 6: Luberon Villages – Gordes & Isle-Sur-la-Sorgue Day 7: Loirmarin & Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Day 8: Gorge du Verdon & Lavander Fields Day 9: Cooking Lessons in Avignon Day 10: Wineries & Aix-en-Provence Day 11: Fly Home

For accommodations, balancing your stay between Arles and Aix-en-Provence gives you a taste of both the historical and the contemporary.

So, are you ready to turn this dream itinerary into a reality? Head over to Road Trip EuroGuide’s Plan My Trip – I can help you plan the perfect Provencal adventure, making sure every detail is covered, from recommending car rentals to cozy stays.

Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow travelers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn't writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step towards a much-needed sabbatical.

Road Trip in Provence – Itinerary 10 Days

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Roman cities, medieval towns, stunning nature, delicious food and good wine – Provence has all this and more. With so much to see and do, Provence is a treat for all the senses and there’s no better way to explore this region than on four wheels. If you’re thinking about a holiday to Southern France, you must put a Provence road trip on your France bucket list!

Here’s our suggested Provence road trip itinerary, ten days, which explores the best of this wonderful region in Southern France.

This road trip south of France is one of the best French road trips . Read more about road tripping in France:

Provence Road Trip Overview

• Start:  Avignon
• Finish:  Avignon
• Duration:  10 days
• Suggested route:  Avignon – St Rémy – Arles – Camargue – Marseille – Cassis – Aix-en-Provence – Avignon
• Total distance:  404 Km, 6 hrs 20 min drive in total
• Region covered: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
• Best for:  history, sightseeing, outdoors, small towns, food & wine

This road trip in Provence itinerary starts from Avignon, where you will pick up and drop off your rental car. Avignon is easy to reach by train from Paris, Lyon, or Dijon. The journey from Paris to Avignon by train takes around 3 hours while Lyon to Avignon by train only takes 2 hrs 45 minutes.  

If you don’t want to drive back to Avignon, you can end this trip in Provence in Aix-en-Provence and explore the villages of the Luberon (day 10) on a day trip from Aix. If you are renting a car, the rental price will probably come with a drop charge – a fee for picking up a rental car at one location and returning it to a different location.

Road Trip in Provence Map

Click here to see the Map of this Provence road trip itinerary on Google

Provence Road Trip Itinerary

For this Provence road trip, you don’t need the car until day 2, so if you are taking a self-drive trip in a hire car, wait until then to pick up your rental car in Avignon. Click here for our best tips for  renting a car in France .

Click here to rent your car in Avignon

Day 0 | Arrival at Avignon

Arrive at Avignon the day before the start of this Provence itinerary. For your two nights in Avignon, book at the Hotel Cloitre Saint Louis Avignon . This hotel is located in a beautiful 16th-century building with original arches and vaulted ceilings surrounded by a beautiful garden and an outdoor swimming pool (a must for Provence in the summer months!)

Click here to book your stay at Hotel Cloitre Saint Louis Avignon

Day 1 | Avignon

Avignon is one of the most beautiful walled cities in France , full of history. Avignon is set on the South Bank of the Rhône River and in the Middle Ages, it was home to seven Popes. The Papal Palace , where they lived, is a jewel of civil gothic architecture and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage.

Enjoy  one day in Avignon . Here everything is within walking distance, and you can easily explore the city while strolling through its small cobblestone lanes. Be sure to visit the Palace of the Popes ( book well in advance! ), and wander along the  Pont d’Avignon  (the famous bridge) or admire it from afar.

You can combine your visit to Avignon with this afternoon wine trip to Châteauneuf-du-Pape . Châteauneuf-du-Pape was the Popes’ summer residence, world known for its beautiful heritage and excellent wines.

Day 2 | Avignon – Arles

It’s time to hit the road to explore what Provence has to offer on four wheels! From Avignon, take the D571 route south to Saint-Rémy.

Saint-Rémy de Provence is a quintessential Provençal town and a picturesque place to get lost for a couple of hours. The town is located in the Parc Régional des Alpilles , between Avignon and Arles, and has a beautiful heritage of private mansions from the Renaissance and 18th-century chapels and convents.

Take the time to explore its winding streets, always with lovely surprises, perhaps with a coffee break in one of the shaded squares adorned with old stone fountains and the terraces of the cafés.

Just south of St. Rémy lies the ancient Roman ruins of  Glanum , with ancient monuments such as the Triumphal Arch and the Jules Mausoleum.

After visiting Saint Remy, drive southwest to Arles where you will spend one night. For your stay in Arles, book into the Hotel du Musée , a former private mansion built in the 17th century in the heart of the city turned into a charming hotel. Hotel du Musée offers stylish rooms with comfortable beds and a delicious breakfast in its lovely inner garden.

Click here to book your stay in Hotel du Musée

Day 3 | Arles – Camargue

Located in the heart of Provence, Arles is always a favorite.  Arles  has it all: an interesting Roman heritage, beautiful 17th-century mansions, a maze of streets, modern museums, and the wide rolling Rhône River. When the temperatures are warm, all the café-terraces and restaurants are full of locals and tourists alike until late at night, creating a lively atmosphere.

Arles was also home to Paul Gauguin and Van Gogh. It was here where Van Gogh painted some of his most famous masterpieces. If you like the works of Van Gogh, don’t miss the Espace Van Gogh (a former hospital where Van Gogh recovered after the infamous episode of cutting off his left earlobe) and the Fondation Van Gogh , dedicated to the work and legacy of Vincent Van Gogh in Arles.

Day 4 and 5 | Camargue

This 10 days in Provence itinerary continues south, to the stunning Camargue. From Arles, take the road D570 to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer , located in the heart of the Camargue. The  Camargue Regional Natural Park  is the largest wetland in France, covering a surface of ​​100,000 hectares. It is famous worldwide for its stunning landscapes, lakes, and exceptional fauna.

Located on a major migratory route for birds from northern Europe to Africa, this area is also home to one of the main nesting sites for pink flamingos in France. But above all, the Camargue is an area for breeding Camargue horses and bulls! Here, bulls and horses live in semi-wild conditions, most often in herds, watched over by herdsmen on horseback.

Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is the perfect place to relax for a couple of days, surrounded by beautiful beaches, wild nature, and some places of interest. For your stay in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, book two nights at the Hotel La Tramontane . The hotel offers individually-decorated, airy rooms which lead to the outdoor swimming pool, a lovely garden, and a private pond.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel La Tramontane

From Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, you can take this 4×4 guided safari around the scenic countryside, with several departure times during the day. Learn the history of the Camargue, photograph the pink flamingoes and other birds, and see the famous white Camargue horses roaming freely in the fields from the heights of the convertible 4×4 motor – Click here to book this 2-hour safari in the Camargue .

Day 6 | Camargue – Marseille

Morning in Martigues

After an early breakfast in the gardens of Hotel La Tramontane, drive back to Arles, and then take the N568 road to Marseille.

On the way, stop for a second coffee in Martigues . Set between the Mediterranean Sea and the Etang de Berre (the largest inland seawater lake in Europe), Martigues has a lovely old city center split into three parts by the canals that join the Etang de Berre with the ocean. Because of its many canals, Martigues is nicknamed the ‘Provencal Venice’.

Explore the harbor area around Quai Brescon and along the canal Saint-Sebastien, with its picturesque pastel houses for the fishermen, little shops, and cafés. If you want to venture further, visit the 17th-century Eglise de la Madelaine, with a beautiful Baroque façade.

Afternoon in Marseille

The next stop of this Provence itinerary 10 days is Marseille , where you will spend one night. If you arrive for lunch, try the bouillabaisse, Marseille’s traditional fish stew; it’s delicious!

Use the afternoon to walk around the harbor and visit the Le Panier neighborhood . Then, end the day on the water with this top-rated sunset cruise with dinner and drinks . Admire Marseille’s coastline all in light and visit the Frioul Islands with some time for swimming and snorkeling.

For your night in Marseille, we recommend the  Hotel La Résidence du Vieux Port , a charming hotel with the perfect location right on the banks of the Old Port.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel La Résidence du Vieux Port

Day 7 | Marseille – Cassis

Spend the day visiting Marseille. Marseille  is the capital of the region Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA between friends) and a famous port city. It’s an exciting place to explore, quite different from other Provençal cities like Avignon or Aix-en-Provence.

Here’s a list of the best things to do in Marseille . You can choose your favorites or check them all! We recommend starting the day with an early visit to the Basilica Notre Dame de la Garde before the crowds arrive.

After visiting Marseille’s top sights, drive to  Cassis , a cute fishing town located at one of the sides of the  Parc National des Calanques de Marseille-Cassis . This colorful fishing town near Marseille, so typical of Provence, is one of the  most beautiful coastal towns in France , perfect for a couple of relaxing days by the Mediterranean Sea.

For your stay in Cassis, book two nights at Le Jardin d’Emile . This characteristic Provençal house has the perfect location by the beach and offers uniquely decorated rooms with a garden, and an outdoor terrace overlooking Cape Canaille.

Click here to book your stay in Le Jardin d’Emile

Day 8 | Cassis – PN des Calanques

Spend day 8 of this Provence road trip itinerary in Cassis . The town is dominated by a castle built in the 8th century and it is renowned for its trails running along the Cap Canaille, its round pebble beaches, and – a little bit further away – its creeks and their majestic cliffs plunging into deep blue water (calanques). There’s also an adorable little port lined with multicolored buildings, cafés, and traditional restaurants offering seafood, bouillabaisse, and other fish dishes.

From western Cassis, the Calanque de Port-Miou is a short, easy hike. If you feel more adventurous, take this 2-hour guided tour with an electric mountain bike to explore the stunning landscapes of the Calanques National Park.

Day 9 | Aix-en-Provence

From Cassis, take the A50 highway, then the A52, to Aix-en-Provence , the next stop of this road trip in Provence. For a unique stay in Aix-en-Provence, book a night at the Hotel des Augustins , a former 12-century convent just off the famous Cours Mirabeau in the heart of the old town. The hotel features spacious rooms combining historic and modern features and a magnificent lobby.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel des Augustins

Aix-en-Provence is a typical Provencal city and a wonderful place to explore in Southern France. Aix’s historic center with Italian influences boasts beautiful architecture, colorful markets, and pretty squares adorned with stone fountains.

A stroll along Cours Mirabeau is one of the musts of Aix-en-Provence, perhaps with a stop at one of its sunny café-terraces for a drink and people-watching. The markets of Aix are also worth exploring for their colorful stalls and delicious local products.

Aix was Cézanne’s hometown and a visit to his studio, where he painted most of his masterworks, is one of the best things to do in Aix-en-Provence. There’s also a walking trail dedicated to the painter and you can get the map of the walking tour itinerary (self-guided) and a short description for each stop at Aix’s tourist information.

TIP: Cézanne’s studio is a popular tourist attraction in Aix-en-Provence, and booking your tickets in advance is highly recommended. You can buy your tickets (for a specific date and time slot in the afternoon) at the tourist information office or online on their website .

Day 10 | Luberon’s Hilltop Villages – Avignon

The last day of this Provence itinerary 10 days explores the Luberon , a massif in central Provence which is part of the French Prealps. This region is well known for its stunning landscapes, beautiful hilltop villages, and medieval castles. In the summertime, the Luberon boasts some of the most photogenic lavender fields in Provence. If you are visiting Provence during the lavender season , check out our quick guide to the lavender fields of Provence and add a couple of locations to your day trip.

Visit Lourmarin , considered by many to be one of the most beautiful villages in France, and noted for its Renaissance castle. Next, visit Bonnieux , a picture-perfect Provençal village that features a 12th-century church surrounded by ancient cedars. Continue to Roussillon via the Roman-era Pont Julien. Roussillon, perched atop an ochre-colored cliff, is a favorite of painters, and a magical place where combinations of oxides give the ochre an infinite variety of colors. Depending on the time, consider visiting Roussillon’s Ochre Trail , the colors are stunning!

The last stop is Gordes , which offers an extraordinary vision of a stone village erected on a massive rock. Its fortress castle and church dominate the houses of the village, which were built with stones taken from the rock on which they sit.

On the way back to Avignon, you can stop at the town of Fontaine de Vaucluse for an apéritif. Stretch your legs walking the short path up to the source of the River Orge and spend a pleasant and refreshing soirée in one of the eateries by the river.

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Travel guide: a weekend getaway in Provence

Last year, Nathalie (from @nathalie_wanders ), Ophélie (from @labengale ) and I visited Provence during a weekend getaway.

Provence is filled with incredible landscapes and spectacular aesthetic. Lavender fields stretch as far as the eyes can see, spreading heavenly their delicate fragrance. Hillside towns and villages boast an uninterrupted charm, rocky beaches bring a feeling of tranquility… All of this offering a simple yet stunning beauty. As much as I love visiting cities, it’s the countryside where I feel most at home and at ease.

Provence being such a picturesque region, photographers, artists and bloggers from all over the world visit the region from mid-June to mid-July. But if you’re lucky enough to go sightseeing to this part of France in summer, don’t miss a chance to see those beautiful and special places. I’m putting here the highlights of our weekend, in hopes that this Provence getaway itinerary would be an inspirational guide to your own French road trip!

Itinerary for a weekend in Provence

As we only had two days there and wanted to spend time in the lavender fields, we decided to split our time between sunrise and sunset in the fields, relaxing in the pool of our B&B on the morning and exploring nearby towns on the afternoon.

The Valensole Plateau is the world’s premier location for lavender cropping. If you venture a bit off on a rocky road, you will discover the photogenic rolling hills between Valensole and Puimoisson. There are also an abundance of poppy, sage and sunflower fields in Provence. As we arrived near Oraison, where was located our B&B, we passed by beautiful sunflower fields. The sun was setting down on the horizon, bathing the fields with its vibrant orange glow. We eventually stopped as we couldn’t pass up this incredible photo opportunity. We also made a stop in a beautiful sage field. But despite we kept driving by the beautiful poppy fields, we sadly didn’t have enough time to stop.

Gorges du Verdon

On our first afternoon, we went to the Lac de St. Croix , which is a reservoir that damns the Verdon River, which flows down from the Gorges du Verdon . It’s a large lake with 4-5 towns along its shores. On this day, there was a lot of people canoeing or boating. We watched paddleboat after paddleboat cruising around the area where the river meets the lake. Kids climbed the rocks along the cliff and jumped in one after another. The color of the water has a vibrant green hue, which during the middle of a summer day made the water look even more appealing. We rented a canoe and off to the Gorges we went! (*the canoe costs 20€/1 hour, cash only)

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Not too far from the Gorges is the charming village of  Moustiers-Sainte-Marie . It is listed as one of the ‘ Les Plus Beaux Villages ’ (France’s most beautiful villages) and is one of the towns we were most excited to visit. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie was one of my favorite spots on the whole trip.

The town is built into the mountains with a stream and multiple waterfalls running right through the center. We also discovered an incredible pottery shop while there. According to the shop owner, this town and area were rich with history in fine china. She told us that for years, Europeans had been obsessed with porcelain from China and weren’t able to replicate it back home, not until the craft was perfected near Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Today, this shop called, Bondil, employs local potters to make this traditional china. We spent a lot of time in the shop, gazing at all those pieces of art.

On our second and last day, we visited Sénanque Abbey right next to Gordes . Gordes being one of the most famous and thus touristic hilltop towns in the Luberon area, the site was crowded with tourists when we arrived. All the big tourist buses gathered in this tiny place made it almost impossible to park our car. We decided to skip the visit of the abbey and just took a few photos in front of the small lavender field.

Throughout history, Gordes had been known for the value of its land, which led to constant invasions. To protect themselves, locals built a fortified city on the hilltop, which resulted in what is now known as one of the most beautiful villages in France. The castle, the stone houses, the stone paved streets, and the view on the valley make the village an endless source of inspiration for photographers.

Provence highlights

As we only stayed there for two days, we didn’t have enough time to visit the whole region but here are some of the sites I’ll definitely visit next time! (Sites are listed from West to East)

• L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, and its beautiful antique shops; Fontaine-de-Vaucluse; Vénasque
• Luberon’s hilltop towns: Gordes, Oppède, Menerbes, Lacoste and Bonnieux
• Roussillon; Apt, and its Saturday market; Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt
• Valensole; Moustiers-Sainte-Marie; Gorges du Verdon

How to get there

I suggest you arrive at Aix-en-Provence and rent a car there, which is the most convenient way to explore this part of France. In fact, although the region has become a notorious touristic attraction, nearby cities provide a very limited public transport services and there is simply no public transportation to lavender fields, except for organized tours. So, having a car is a necessity that can’t be neglected.

Where to stay

For this weekend getaway, we stayed at the amazing B&B La Maison dans l’Olivette (get a 10% discount when booking through this link !) and no word could express how perfect this stay was! Our hosts Georges and Geneviève are friendly and welcomed us warmly, giving us a lot of advice regarding photo spots and places to see. The home-made breakfast was just amazing and the pool is heaven! A haven where I can’t wait to come back again!

Depending on the sites you’re planning to visit, consider having a “home base” rental home on your trip instead of spending time checking in and out hotels. You can split the region in two: one location near Valensole so you can explore the Gorges du Verdon as well as Moustiers-Sainte-Marie while enjoying the lavender fields, and another one near Oppède, so you can explore the Luberon area without spending too much time on the road (e.g., Gordes was an hour and half away from our B&B).

Those are the highlights from our trip (aka what I found to be the can’t-miss moments). But there is always something magical around every corner waiting to be discovered. And that’s why I love Provence! I hope this weekend getaway guide to Provence will be useful for you and if you need, feel free to reach out with any questions as there is SO much to do! And don’t forget to tag me in your stories and posts on Instagram if this article inspires you !

With love,  Marina

P.S.: find inspiration for other weekend getaway destinations right here !

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We want you to come with ” dancingtheearth” on this journey by reading stories. You can imagine the world around you through someone else’s eyes and hopes to inspire you to experience the world alone.

As I dreamed of visiting a lovely place, I kept spending time! As I said, I heard from several people now that. I and my friend used to be in this beautiful place, so I do not know how good our performance in haha ​​haha. Still, it pays to try exactly as I said. Beautiful photos in this publication By the way, you really capture the beauty of places. Wait for your next post! http://Www.moroccotripsahara.com

Hello! Thank you very much for coming here and for your comment!

Wowww it’s absolutely beautiful! I’ve seen pictures of it but every time I see another, I’m always in shock by how beautiful it is! I’ll definitely be getting a tour when I visit!

It’s even more beautiful in real!

Wow this sounds like such a lovely place, and your photos are gorgeous! I am adding this to my bucketlist for next summer!

Thanks a lot! It really is a beautiful place that everyone should see once I think!

I went to Provence many years ago and am desperate to go back and see the lavender fields. They are stunning. Gorges du Verdon is also on my bucket list, which I have heard so much about. Your photos are beautiful. I would definitely want to stay longer than a weekend. Great tip about getting a car there. Thank you.

Thank you for reading! Yes Gorges du Verdon is a must-do! If you haven’t already, I would also take time to explore the little villages nearby, they’re gems!

WOW! This place looks so stunning! I’m definitely saving this for later. You have completely sold me on it!

Haha so happy to hear that!

such wonderful pictures! the little places always win us over right?! Now I want to go there! 🙂

Indeed! I hope you can go soon 😉

Wow I hope I can go there for the lavender fields and sunflower fields one day! Your pictures were absolutely incredible! Definitely saving this post!

Thank you so much for coming and reading Aubrie! I hope you can go there soon to feel all the magic 🙂

Wow! Your blog is amazing, thank you so much for sharing.

Your photos are gorgeous and really made me wanna visit Provence! You guys managed to see and do so much in one weekend too

Thank you so much for reading! We did, and yet there’s so much left to discover there!

Provence is so beautiful! Loved your photos. I’ve been to several places in France but never Provence and it’s definitely on our bucket list. Thanks for sharing!

It really is stunning! There’s so much to discover there!

Your photos are so beautiful!! Great post. Definitely saving for later!

Thank you so much for reading! I hope you’ll be able to visit this amazing place!

I LOVE Provence and am dreaming of being back there. Your photos are so beautiful Marina an this is a great guide! 🙂

Thank you so much Taylor! I love Provence too, can’t wait to be back!

Beautiful place! You had me at the lavender fields and the turquoise GORGES DU VERDON. We are planning a long road trip in France, and I m including this place in it. 🙂

Yessss Gorges du Verdon should be in every itinerary! You should definitely include one of the small villages too, it’s too cute!

Provence looks absolutely stunning to explore! Your photos are really making me want to plan a trip here asap. Thanks for sharing all of these great tips and insights!

Thank you so much! I’m dreaming of going back there asap *w*

The Gorges du Verdon look incredible! I love love loooove the South of France, but I obviously need to spend more time in Provence as I have never been to most of these places. This post is fabulous Marina. I love your photos. 🙂

Thank you so much Josy! I love South of France too, and still have so many things to see! One of my dream is to live there one day ^^

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The Perfect 7 Day South of France Road Trip

With its rustic countryside, wine regions, and scenic beaches, it’s hard not to fall in love with the South of France. It’s no surprise why it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world! Imagine spending a week exploring quaint villages, beautiful  lavender fields  and relaxing in the luxurious French Riviera. This road trip itinerary is for one week but you could easily spend 10 – 14 days here if your holiday allows.

If you’re planning the perfect South of France road trip than look no further. This ultra-detailed 7 day South of France itinerary will show you the best of the French Riviera and Provence. First, lets touch on where you will visit during your 7 days in the South of France.

French Riviera & Provence Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1:  Arrive in Marseille Day 2:  Day trip to Aix-en-Provence & Valensole Lavender fields from Marseille Day 3:  Arrive in Cannes Day 4:  Arrive in Nice Day 5: Day Trip to Monaco from Nice Day 6:  Day Trip to Villefranche-Sur-Mer & Eze from Nice Day 7:  Day Trip to Menton from Nice

If you have additional time to spend in the French Riviera, I suggest flying into Marseille and adding extra stops along the French Riviera to Antibes and Saint Tropez.

Here’s an overview of exactly what the quintessential South of France road trip looks like. One of the best travel hacks, in my opinion, is using Google Maps to plot out your own specific itinerary once you decide on it! You can add a ton of additional details and points of interest based on your specific road trip.

How to Get to Marseille

We spent our first 3 days in Paris and then took a TGV highspeed train into Marseille. The train ride from Paris to Marseille was about 2 hours. The most cost-time-effective way to get from Paris to Marseille is by train. Additionally, the car rental office is conveniently right outside the train station in order to pick up your rental car.

If you’re flying straight into Marseille, then disregard the above mentioned information.

Car rental tip : You can rent your car in Marseille and return it in Nice. You can return it at the Nice airport when you depart or once you arrive to Nice, if you don’t plan to use the car once in Nice.

We chose to return our Avis car rental upon arrival to the Nice Railway Station  Gare as parking is difficult to come by in Nice. We decided it would be best to get around on foot, use public transportation and via Uber. This worked out perfectly for us and we didn’t have to worry about paying daily parking fees and finding parking in Nice during our 4 night stay.

Day 1: Arrive in Marseille

Marseille, a port city in southern France, has been a crossroads of immigration and trade since its founding by the Greeks circa 600 B.C.

Things to Do: Make sure you walk around the Old Port of Marseille, see the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde and Palais Longchamp.

Where to Stay: AC Hotel Marseille Prado Veldrome Where to Eat: Oh Massalia , Le Hippe Chic Café , Le Relais Corse , Wood La Cantine Gourmande

Day 2:  Day Trip to Aix-en-Provence & Valensole Lavender Fields from Marseille

Start the day by picking up your rental car from Avis at the Marseille Railway Station. From here you will drive about 30 minutes to Aix-en-Provence. I recommend picking up your rental car early so that you can make the most of your day.

Things to Do: Once in Aix-en Provence, get lost in the cute, tiny little streets. Make sure to check out Cours Mirabeau, Paroisse Cathédrale Saint Sauveur and Place d’Albertas.

Where to Stay: Renaissance Aix-en-Provence

We did not stay in Aix-en-Provence, however if you have the time I suggest spending 1 night. I would even suggest staying in Aix-en-Provence over Marseille.

Where to Eat: Weibel , BigBrod , Platanos

Plateau de Valensole and the Lavender Fields

Among the best lavender fields in Provence are those in the Valensole Plateau. It’s here you’ll find endless stretches of fragrant rows peppered by stone huts and token trees.

The Valensole lavender fields are probably the most visited in all of Provence and subsequently the most photographed. From Aix-En-Provence, you will continue driving for about 1 hour before reaching Valensole.

Please note that Lavender is a summer flower that starts to bloom in Provence around mid June and is generally harvested from mid July to the beginning of August. However the exact dates differ from year to year depending on the weather. So if you come out of this season you will miss the lavender fields.

Spend the rest of the day exploring the lavender field in Valensole. I have written a detailed post on how to reach the lavender fields in Valensole.

Where to Eat: Even if you’re planning on visiting the villages on this Valensole lavender fields itinerary, you’ll struggle to find somewhere to eat outside of regular meal times. I suggest eating breakfast or lunch in Aix-en-Provence prior to visiting the lavender fields. Bring plenty of water on your drive and you could bring a picnic to enjoy as a snack.

Depending on where you’re staying, make your way back to Marseille or Aix-en-Provence. Enjoy the rest of your night before heading out to your next destination.

If you’re looking for the best wineries to visit in Provence, you’ll notice that I didn’t include that as part of my itinerary since I was pregnant, we were driving and limited on time. If you stay in Aix-en-Provence and have an extra day, I would suggest dedicating the second day to seeing all of the different wineries.

Here’s a quick list of wineries in Provence:

• Chateau la Canorgue
• Château de Berne
• Chêne Bleu Winery
• Domaine de Fontenille
• Château Fontvert
• Chateau DEsclans

Day 3: Arrive in Cannes

Cannes, a resort town on the French Riviera, is famed for its international film festival. Its Boulevard de la Croisette, curving along the coast, is lined with sandy beaches, upmarket boutiques and palatial hotels.

Things to Do: Visit La Croisette, one of the most iconic streets in France, People watch in Le Vieux Port, Stroll along Rue d’Antibes and do some luxury shopping and hang out at the beach.

Where to Stay: JW Marriott Cannes Where to Eat: Bella Storia , Gelato Junkie

Prepare to wake up in the morning and drive to your final destination, Nice. The drive should take about an hour from Cannes.

Day 4:  Arrive in Nice

There is   more to Nice than the world-famous shoreline. Nice is a city filled with history, culture, and art – enough to keep you occupied for days. Nice is the perfect city to also position yourself for day trips to smaller towns.

Things to Do: Stroll around Old Nice, walk along the Promenade des Anglais and chill on the beach, climb up Nice Castle Hill, and relax at a beach club.

Where to Stay: Le Meridien Nice or AC Hotel Nice

Where to Eat: La Cucina , Ruhl Plage , Byblos

Day 5: Day Trip to Monaco from Nice

Just a 20 minute drive away from Menton is Monaco, a sovereign city-state, country, and microstate on the French Riviera. The tiny city-state is famous for its lavish wealth, casinos, and glamorous events such as the Monaco Yacht Show and the Monaco Grand Prix.

I suggest taking an Uber to Monaco, however you can also take the train, but beware that it gets really packed during busy season and takes about double the time as driving.

Things to Do: Visit Casino Monte-Carlo, head up to Avenue de la Porte Neuve for the best view of Monaco and the surrounding mountains, check out the unique architecture of the Cathedral de Monaco, enjoy the view of Port de Fontvieille from the ‘Vue Panoramique sur Monaco – Fontvielle’.

Highlights of Monaco include exploring the Rocher de Monaco. This is where you’ll find historical highlights such as Place du Palais, which is the official residence of the Prince of Monaco.

How to get to Monaco: You can either take an Uber or car service or the SNCF train . Get to the train station 30 minutes before your train is expected to leave to get your tickets as the line to purchase tickets is typically long.

Where to Stay: We stayed in Nice and did a day trip to Monaco, however if you plan to stay in Monaco, I recommend Riviera Marriott Hotel La Porte de Monaco .

Where to Eat: Mozza , Tip Top , Cafe de Paris Monte-Carlo

Day 6: Day Trip to Eze & Villefranche-Sur-Mer from Nice

Eze is a beautiful medieval town on a hill in-between Monaco and Nice. There are lots of cute streets to get lost in and an amazing view over the Mediterranean to admire. Make sure to check out the pastel colored church and exotic garden.

How to Get to Villefrance-Sur-Mer & Eze: Fastest way is via an Uber, however the SNCF train is also an affordable and easy option. Get to the train station 30 minutes before your train is expected to leave to get your tickets as the line to purchase tickets is typically long.

Also, when taking the train the trains coming back to Nice get more and more packed as the day goes on. Sometimes during busy season you will have to wait for several trains before boarding or just squeeze your way on.

Things to Do: Visit the Fragonard Parfum Factory, take the time to walk around the old village viewing its ancient fountains, old stone houses, and amazing archways.

Where to Eat: Deli Eze Village

Villefranche-Sur-Mer

Villefranche-Sur-Mer, one of the prettiest towns in France! Villefranche-Sur-Mer dates back to the 14th century and was the most significant maritime port along the Riviera. Today, the Villefranche Promenade is probably the liveliest area you’ll encounter in the village.

Things to Do: Make sue to walk down Rue Baron des Brès and head to the viewpoint on Boulevard Napolean III, the most instagrammable spots in Villefranche-Sur-Mer. Wander the old town, where most buildings are from the 12th or 13th century and have been beautifully preserved. All the houses are painted in rainbow colors with shutters, plants, and flowers to match.

Day 7: Day Trip to Menton from Nice

Menton is a stunning harborside with views of the colorful houses and the 17th-century church of Basilique Saint-Michel-Archange.

How to Get to Menton: SNCF operates a train from Nice Ville to Menton every 30 minutes. Tickets cost $5 – $16 and the journey takes 40 min. Alternatively, you can grab an Uber or car service, which takes about 30 minutes, however more costly.

Things to Do: Spend your first full day on the Cote d’Azur enjoying Menton’s iconic Plage des Sablettes. The beautiful Azure water laps in front of colorful orange and yellow houses, it’s the perfect Instagram spot!

I hope you enjoyed this road trip around Provence and the French Riviera, and fall in love with the South of France as much as we did! If you have any questions regarding my trip, please feel free to DM me on Instagram or leave a message below!

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Thanks for the great information. We’re planning a trip to the Riviera, so this will be very helpful.

Anytime! Thank You Clay! Hope you enjoy your trip!

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Hi, my name is Christine and I intend to show you a part of my life through my passion for traveling and fashion. You can find me exploring the world one plane, train and glass of Champagne at a time!

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Unique travel experiences, fun itineraries & offbeat places to help you plan your dream trip

4 Day Provence Itinerary for Nature, Food, Art & Culture

With its stunning landscapes, lavender fields, ancient vineyards, hilltop villages, and rich cultural heritage, Provence offers travellers an authentic way to experience the French way of life. The region's timeless traditions, emphasis on fresh cuisine, and celebration of art and culture make it a destination that captures the essence of France.

Your 4 days in Provence will take you on a road trip through the Luberon Valley to explore beautiful hilltop villages, vibrant local markets and scenic sights. Whether you're a history, nature, art, architecture, food or wine enthusiast, Provence has something to offer for everyone.

Our 4 Day Provence itinerary includes unique places and local hot spots you don't want to miss , from the best picnic spots to scenic restaurants serving outstanding Provencal cuisine.

Best time to visit Provence

If seeing the lavender in bloom is important to you, the best time to visit is early July , however, this is also one of the busiest times of the year with tourists.

If it's not a priority to see purple lavender, we recommend traveling to Provence in May or September. The weather is pleasant, villages and markets are vibrant and everything is open, but you have fewer crowds than in June-August.

We don't recommend coming in off-season from November - March , as it's chilly and some places aren't open.

Driving in Provence

The best way to explore Provence is by car with its beautiful country roads taking you through the valley up to villages. It's easy to get around and most villages are straightforward with a main road going through them. There are a few smaller local roads that can get skinny, but other than that driving was a breeze!

Provence 4 Day Itinerary

Visit Chateau La Coste & the vibrant village of Lourmarin

Where to Stay

For your first two nights in Provence, stay in Lourmarin, the gateway of the Luberon. The village is known for its vibrant cultural scene, creative atmosphere and fashionable crowd. Located in the south of the Luberon region, it's a great starting-off point to explore Provence and is located under an hour's drive from the Marseille International Airport.

Spend the day at Chateau La Coste and the evening in Lourmarin

Chateau La Coste 

Pick up your rental car

Pick up your rental car at the Marseille International Airport, and drive about 30 minutes to your first stop, Chateau La Coste.

Experience Chateau La Coste's unique combination of contemporary art, nature and gastronomy

Chateau La Coste is a multi-faceted experience in art, nature and gastronomy. We luckily got this recommendation from a local architect, and it's one of the most unique places we've ever visited.

As you drive into the enchanting estate, you are greeted by huge sculptures set amidst the beautiful landscape. Peppered throughout the acreage you'll find 43 open-air art installations, by big names like Tadao Ando and Paul Matisse, that create a harmonious blend of nature and creativity. It should take you about 2.5 hours total to see everything by foot. The walking distance is 4 km and there are uphill sections, so bring runners.

First, eat lunch on the outdoor terrace of Restaurant de Tadao Ando before setting off to see the art installations . Next, go for a small hike to see the art. It costs 15 € per person to view the property and you're given a map that describes each artwork.

Afterwards, step into the tasting room for a free wine tasting of their fine rosés. They were some of our favourites we tried in Provence. We recommend buying a bottle to have with your picnic the next day.

Check into your hotel in Lourmarin

The drive to Lourmarin from Chateau La Coste is just 25 minutes. Settle into your hotel and get ready for an evening out in town.

Dine, sip rosé and people watch in Lourmarin's old-centre square

Lourmarin has a rich history, with writers, artists and intellectuals, like Albert Camus, living here throughout history. We loved spending time in the old-centre square sipping rosé, sharing bites and watching locals and visitors pass by. Snag one of the sidewalk tables at Cafe Gaby or La Fontaine , and take in the village's cosmopolitan and artistic flair.

Explore Lourmarin and have a picnic at a 15th century castle

Lourmarin village and Chateau de Lourmarin

Explore Lourmarin and shop the boutiques

Although Lourmarin is small, there are many things to do. The best time to visit is on Fridays when the village comes alive with its bustling market and live music in the streets. If you can line up your stay to be there on a Friday, we highly recommend it! The market was excellent with over 150 vendors selling food, produce clothing, jewelry, housewares and accessories. I bought a knit sweater, a purse and two bracelets. Everything was so chic!

If you're not there when the market is on, start your morning with coffee overlooking the square before setting off to shop the boutiques. Our favourite shop was Mise En Scene .

Also, don't miss La Calade De Lourmarin, a tea shop with a peaceful garden space for sitting . We smelled four loose-leaf teas and chose one to have as iced-tea on their patio.

Afterwards, walk the quiet backstreets to see beautiful medieval buildings and cute cats walking about.

Have a picnic at Chateau de Lourmarin

Gather picnic ingredients from the market or artisanal shops and have a picnic at Chateau de Lourmarin, a historic 15th century castle overlooking the village. If you walk up the stairs at the back of the castle, you will find an excellent picnicking area in an olive tree grove . You don't need to pay a fee to visit this area.

We found shade under one of the olive trees and snacked on olive tapenade, fresh baguette, market strawberries, soft goat cheese and chorizo sticks.

Don't forget: a knife, board/plate and picnic blanket.

Taste wines of Provence at Domaine de Fontenille's tasting room

Domaine de Fontenille has a tasting room located in the centre square, and the best part is that it's free ! We tried rosés and reds and learned more about the wines of Provence.

Left: Le Tonneau | Right: La Maison Cafe

Taste more wines and eat tapas at Le Tonneau

Le Tonneau, situated just up the street from the main square, is one of the village's finest spots for tasting wines and charcuterie. Their wine-barrel tables on the raised patio set the stage for a fun evening.

Listen to music at La Maison Cafe

La Maison Cafe is the hip place to be where locals and travellers gather to listen to music, dance and drink cocktails. See what events are on when you visit. We went on a Saturday and they had a DJ who played a mix of disco and funk, followed by a group who played "electronic-jazz" with synth and drums. The music was great!

Must try cocktail: Caipirinha

See our list of 10 fun things to do in Lourmarin

Explore the Luberon Valley and six beautiful villages that capture the charm of Provence

Where to stay

For your last two nights, we recommend staying in Roussillon, our favourite village in the Luberon. Not only is it beautiful with its ochre-coloured cliffs and historic buildings, it's also a great jumping-off point for day trips to the surrounding villages.

Explore Bonnieux, Menerbes and Roussillon

Top: Bonnieux village and Menerbes village | Bottom: Lunch at Cafe Du Progress

Drive the scenic route from Lourmarin to Bonnieux

The drive from Lourmarin to Bonnieux is one of the most beautiful in the region. Take the winding road through the gorge up to the hilltop village for panoramic views of the Luberon Valley. Pull over to the side of the road in Bonnieux to stretch your legs and take in the surroundings.

Enjoy a scenic lunch at Cafe Du Progress in Menerbes

Menerbes is a quiet hilltop village with eateries and galleries tucked away through the narrow cobblestone streets. Here is where you will find a local favourite for lunch, Cafe Du Progress. Make your reservation far in advance to ensure you get a table on the terrace overlooking the countryside. The farm-to-table cuisine matches the setting perfectly.

Walk through Menerbes

After lunch, take a stroll along the old stone houses. Stop in at Maison de la Truffe , and pop into the art gallery upstairs. Afterwards save room for freshly brewed iced-tea and pastries at Chez Auzet , which also has nice valley views.

Exploring Roussillon and eating at Restaurant David

Explore Roussillon village

After checking into your stay in Roussillon, head out into the tiny streets to explore. We found Roussillon to be more bohemian and colourful than other villages, which we loved. These were our favourite boutiques in Roussillon:

• Bals'Art - for organic balsamic reductions and macerations. They have tastings in the back.
• Cricri - for well-priced local products and natural paints in unique ochre shades.
• Maison Brémond 1830 - a gourmet grocer selling local products from Provence. Excellent if you're looking for gifts to bring back!

Dine at Restaurant David for breathtaking views of the ochre cliffs

Restaurant David was our favourite place we dined at in Provence. It had it all with its Michelin-recognized cuisine and outstanding views overlooking the ochre cliffs. Dine here at sunset, so you can see the rocks radiate and pop out like gems in the forest. We even saw a rainbow!

See our list of 9 unique things to do in Roussillon

Day trip to Goult, Gordes, and Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt

Clockwise from top left: cheese vendor at the Lourmarin market, Le Carillon Restaurant in Goult, picnic on Route de Murs, view of Gordes Village

Visit a local market

Villages in the Luberon each have their own "market day". Depending on the day of the week, visit one of the local markets in the region:

• Tuesdsay: Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt or Gordes
• Thursday: Goult, Roussillon or Menerbes
• Friday: Bonnieux or Lourmarin
• Saturday: Apt
• Sunday: Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

Markets in the Luberon typically get busy by 9 AM and vendors start closing up their stalls around lunchtime (~12:30 PM).

Top market tip: some stalls sell similar things, with some at better prices.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Le Carillon in Goult

After perusing the market, stop in for a gourmet lunch at Le Carillon, one of the best restaurants serving Provencal-style cuisine in the region. Reserve a spot on their outdoor terrace in the heart of the village and choose one of their set menus. Afterwards, walk off your lunch and explore the village. Goult was the one village we visited that we could see ourselves living in.

If you have time, also stop at the Edith Mezard boutique in the tiny village of Lumieres next door. I bought a stylish crochet purse and a serving plate with lemons on it. The whole store was très-chic!

Drive the scenic loop from Gordes to Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque and a panoramic picnic spot

Gordes is considered the most picturesque village in the Luberon, and for that reason, it can get quite touristy and crowded. It's better to look at the village from afar , with its stone houses cascading down the hillside. Afterwards, keep driving towards Abbaye Notre-Dame de Senanque to see the lavender fields and loop around to Aire de pique-nique Route de Murs, for a lovely view and picnic spot.

Top tip: before driving the loop, stop in at Lyse Bakery in Coustellet to grab treats for your picnic. You won't believe their selection. I still dream about their lavender macarons.

Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt

Explore Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt and dine at Le Saint Hubert

Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt is an off-the-beaten-path village with an authentic local vibe. Here, you'll find a laidback atmosphere and fewer tourists compared to other villages. As you stroll down the main strip, you'll witness the genuine daily life of locals reading newspapers and chatting over wine at charming sidewalk cafes.

Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt has gained international attention for its restaurant, Le Saint Hubert. Featured in Conde Nast, this establishment is a prime example of big city chefs moving to serene environments to embrace a laidback lifestyle and work with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Don't miss the chance to dine at Le Saint Hubert, where you can enjoy their three-course tasting menus for €48 while taking in the beautiful valley and mountain views from the dining room.

Enjoy your 4 days in Provence!

Get started on booking your trip to Provence

• 🌃 Book your accommodation: Booking.com is our go-to for finding places to stay. Sort by top reviewed.
• 🤠 Browse tours with local guides: through GetYourGuide
• 🛫 Book your flight: use Skyscanner to compare flights across different airlines (we recommend booking direct with the airline, however).

Combine Provence with a trip to Paris in our 7 Day Paris and Provence itinerary .

Or, take a road trip from Provence to Piedmont, Italy .

Don't miss our other Provence travel guides:

• 7 Beautiful Luberon Villages you should visit
• How to spend 3 Days in Provence

Combine Provence with a day trip to Monaco .

Save and pin this Provence 4 Day Itinerary for later:

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The Weekend Guide to Provence, France

An insider's guide to the dreamiest region of France.

There’s a reason Hollywood A-listers like the Clooneys and Brad Pitt have homes in Provence: The region unfurls across the southeast corner of France in a dreamy patchwork of vineyards, lavender fields, and medieval villages. Anchored by the historic cities of Aix en Provence, Avignon, and Arles, Provence is dotted with award-winning wineries, 265 Michelin-starred restaurants, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. But a recent flurry of new eateries, hotels, and museums—as well as Pitt’s recently opened Miraval Studios, which draws the world’s top musicians to his sprawling 15th-century wine estate—has turned this once sleepy corner of France into a thriving cultural hub. Come for a weekend or a month, a girls' getaway or a family vacay, but Provence is likely to seduce you with its charms and you’ll want to make like Amal and stay forever.

Where to Stay

Set in a refurbished 11th-century winemaking hamlet about an hour from Avignon, Coquillade Provence Resort & Spa serves up the kind of experience French dreams are made of. Sixty-three rooms and suites are scattered amongst 90 acres of sun-dappled vines and olive groves. All the rooms are exquisite, but in early summer 2023, the hotel will unveil five new luxury "Nymph" suites, which have direct access to the spa, as well as a private pool and garden, making for the perfect spot to pop some bubbly and watch the sun sink low behind the golden hills of the Luberon.

The property feels more like an authentic French village than a sprawling resort, and features its own winery , award-winning spa, three restaurants, cycling center, two pools, a gym, and pétanque court (the French version of bocci), so there’s no reason to ever leave, but it’s also centrally located, making it the perfect launching pad for exploring Provence.

Heavenly breakfast spread

Days at Coquillade Provence start with a heavenly breakfast spread of croissants, baguettes, and pain au chocolates made daily by one of the region’s top pastry chefs. This is best followed by a visit to the property’s 21,575-square-foot spa and its state-of-the-art fitness center. Take a yoga or cardio-training class, then indulge in a myriad of treatments that draw on beauty and wellness traditions from around the world. We suggest the Coquillade Signature Beauty & Bodycare Ritual, which incorporates a scrub of grapes and lavender grown on the property. Follow that up with a visit to the resort’s tasting room for samples of the best wines from Coquillade Provence’s vineyards. Then, dance the night away at Le Bar , the property’s chic cocktail lounge, which serves up sexy drinks, a Thai-inspired menu, and, come summer, a DJ on Friday and Saturday nights. 

No trip to Provence is complete without sampling some of the region’s legendary wines and the best way to do this is atop a bike. Coquillade Provence serves up a not-to-be-missed Vineyards and Vines cycling tour in which you’ll explore local vineyards atop an e-bike (cycling has never been this easy), sip wines, and learn about their production, all while riding through miles of vineyards and experiencing the pleasures—lavender fields at peak bloom, villages lost in time—of the Provençal countryside up close. A van—and charcuterie— await at the last stop to whisk weary, over-served cyclists home.

If cycling isn’t for you, spend the day exploring Provence’s rich art scene. Once home to Picasso, Cezanne, and Van Gogh, Provence is an art aficionado’s dream, made even more so by the 2021 addition of Luma Arles , a cultural hub designed by acclaimed architect Frank Gehry that delivers world-class contemporary art, 27 acres of beautiful gardens, sculpture installations, a skate park, and lively events. After a morning at the Luma, head to the Vincent Van Gogh Foundation, which celebrates the legendary artist, who spent 15 months in Arles, and his impact on contemporary art. Then top the day off with a visit to the Atelier de Cezanne , the studio in Aix where Cezanne spent his final days painting— and capturing the magic of—Provence.

With Roman ruins, ancient papal palaces, and medieval city centers, the historic heavyweights of Arles, Avignon, and Aix en Provence draw throngs of visitors every year, and rightly so, but much of Provence’s charm lies in its quaint countryside villages, which come alive on their weekly market days. Vendors sell everything from locally-made jams, olives, and cheese to antique jewelry, colorful skirts, and silk scarves. Head to Apt Saturday morning and grab picnic fixings from its market, then head to Rousillon for a short hike on the Sentier des Ocres, which meanders through the town’s famous ochre-colored cliffs. Finish the day with a visit to Gordes, deemed one of the prettiest villages in France, and explore its quiet cobbled-stone streets and one-thousand-year-old Sénanque abbey. Round out the day with tea and macarons at the Ladurée outpost in the Airelles Gordes, La Bastide hotel.

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What to Eat and Drink

Situated on the remains of a 12th century castle atop the village of Saignon, Un Jardin Sur le Toit serves up tasty French dishes with international flare like tuna tartar and truffle risotto as well as jaw-dropping views of Provence, which spools out in all directions below you. Snag a reservation at dusk and watch as the sun sets the Provençal countryside ablaze.

Unveiled in the summer of 2022, La Table d’Estoublon is one of the most exciting additions to Provence’s culinary scene. The restaurant sits on the magnificent grounds of an 18th century chateau owned in part by Carla Bruni, former model and first lady of France. Chef Wim Van Gorp trained with Jean Georges Vongerichten and draws on fresh, local ingredients—produce from the chateau’s vegetable garden, pork from Mt. Ventoux— to serve up classic French dishes with eclectic influences. The cote du boeuf (rib roast) and vegetable tarte are standouts. 

Provence is not known for its nightlife, but lucky for Coquillade Provence’s guests, they will not have to travel far to find fun. The property’s Aureto winery and tasting room hosts outdoor movie nights, live music, and themed parties throughout the year. Further afield, sample award-winning rosés from Pitt’s Chateau Miraval at the Famille Perrin tasting room , which also puts on a fun music festival every October. Or head to Chateau d’Esclans, an estate dripping in hydrangeas and grenache grapes, to see where Whispering Angel, the world’s most popular rosé, is made.

Kelley Manley is a freelance journalist whose work has appeared in the New York Times, Vogue, Marie Claire, Departures, and other national and regional publications. Follow her on Instagram @KelleyMcMillanManley.

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How to spend the perfect weekend in Provence

03 May, 2021

Discover how to spend the perfect weekend in Provence.

Rich in centuries of history and ancestral know-how, Provence brims with wonders to be discovered. From the Vaucluse to the Alpes-Maritimes, the region has something for everyone. Provençal life is a unique art de vivre where tourists and locals alike are invited to take part. From admiring the sunrise above the lavender fields to falling asleep with the cicada song, a day in Provence is definitely a day to remember.

More than its sunny climate, Provence is home to traditional markets and some of the best rosés in the world. As you may have noticed, art, history, nature and, of course, food and wine lovers will make Provence their next home.

Hence, Winerist has created for you the ideal weekend to spend in Provence. Want to know more on how to spend the perfect 4-day (or more) break in the sunniest region of France?

For your first visit to the region, using Avignon as a hub is a must. You can reach Avignon, formerly seat of the Catholic Popes, by train from Paris or London, or by air from Avignon, Nimes or Marseille airports.

On Day 1, you can visit Avignon, famed for its Popes’ Palace and its Bridge that you might have heard about in your very first french lessons back at school with the music Sur le pont d’Avignon. For lunch, you can try our favourite wine bar and restaurant, AOC, which offers a traditional french brasserie cuisine and a great selection of cold cuts and cheese platters. In the spring and summer, the terrasse is a must to relax and enjoy the Provençal life with a glass of wine. Later in the afternoon, we advise you to try the Domaine du Vieux Lazaret in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, 20km north of Avignon. This winery is the largest wine estate of the appellation where novices and connoisseurs alike will be delighted by their world-class wines. In the evening, stay at Château de Varenne ( from 158€/night ), a few kilometres away from the winery. This charming château will leave you with a feeling of sophistication.

On Day 2, join a wine tasting initiation on the slopes of Mount Ventoux with our local experts where your five senses will be awaken. During this interactive wine education journey, you will taste 5 different wines and discover the secrets of winemaking. Head towards the Château Pesquié in the afternoon where you can join, depending on the season, a wine tasting course or a harvest course with the winemaker. In the evening, unwind at Metafort , a contemporary B&B combining luxury, design and wellness near the Mount Ventoux. No worries for dinner, the hosts offer unmissable gourmet experiences made with local products. Sit back and enjoy the delights of Provence.

On Day 3, do not miss a visit to Gordes, one of the most beautiful villages in the Luberon, perched on the edge of the Plateau du Vaucluse. Enjoy a lunch in Bonnieux, south of Gordes, at the famous La Bergerie restaurant where hardiness and sophistication are combined to perfection. Then, drive to Domaine de Fontenille , an organic winery in the heart of Luberon, where you can enjoy a unique wine tasting in their cellar ( from 15€ pp ). After this exceptional day, unpack at La Bastide de Marie to relax in luxury in the middle of the vines.

On Day 4, enjoy a typical French breakfast at the hotel with croissants and a selection of local cheeses, jam and honey. Morning and afternoon, cooking classes, wine tastings and spa treatments are available at the Bastide. You can either have one more night at La Bastide de Marie or leave in the afternoon. Whatever you decide, make sure you go on either a morning lavender fields’ tour and/or a truffle-hunting tour which takes place in the evening ( from 84€ pp ).

Ready to go? We promise that this weekend will be an unforgettable one. Don’t forget to relax and take some time for yourself to unwind in the beautiful hotels you will be staying at. Get in touch with us for more tips and information about Provence.

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Provence Travel Guide

With its almost mythical charm, breathtaking natural diversity, and universal appeal, Provence is a region at the top of many travellers’ bucket lists. It’s a place where you can live the fairytale French life, immersed in its hilltop villages, sipping rosé on château terraces, and sunning yourself on its shimmering coastlines.

As a Provence local, it’s a region very close to my heart. That’s why I’ve created this Provence travel guide to share my favourite things to do in the region. Discover the region’s cities, plan your itinerary, and find the best walks, villages, lavender fields, and castles in Provence, right here.

Provence Area Guides

Where to stay in provence, provence activity guides, provence travel inspiration.

Planning a trip to Provence? Join our free Provence Travel Planning Facebook Group ! Here you can ask questions, get feedback on your trip planning, and share your travel stories and photos.

Each area in Provence has a very unique feel. Discover what makes each of them special with our Provence city guides.

From luxury châteaux to cozy guest houses tucked away among the lavender fields, we’ve rounded up the very best Provence accommodation options. Browse our Provence Hotel Guide, or read our city accommodation guides below.

Best Places to Stay in Provence, France – The Ultimate Provence Guide!

  Oh, Provence. This sun-soaked corner of France has lured visitors for centuries with its unique and captivating charm. I mean, who wouldn’t be seduced by strolling through fields of fragrant lavender, taking in the stunning natural vistas, exploring crumbling châteaux and walking in the footsteps of illustrious artists? Provence is, after all, the perfect natural canvas. But with…

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Ultimate Sault Lavender Fields Tour

This post was first published in 2020 and has been updated every year since. Sitting high above the Luberon ranges you’ll find an untouched area of Provence. An area of immense natural beauty, rich agricultural heritage, and unique gastronomy. Among this bucolic setting, in summer, you’ll also discover a landscape laced with lavender. The Sault…

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Provence in depth.

Get to Know Provence

Nestled between the sea and mountains, Van Gogh and Cézanne immortalized Provence’s beauty on canvas. Its striking colors range from azure sky to bright pastel facades and deep purple lavender fields to vibrant yellow sunflowers. In the summer cicadas melodically buzz in the background. Wine lovers can’t miss the powerful Côtes-du-Rhône reds and the refreshing Coteaux-d’Aix-en-Provence rosés. History buffs should make time to explore the exceptional Roman ruins and the Gothic Palais des Papes. The is a relaxing place with great weather, millennia of history, and a fantastic art legacy.

Provence has three millennia of fascinating history to explore. Marseille, France’s oldest city, was colonized by the Greeks in 600 BC (Nice and Monaco followed soon after). The Romans conquered the region in the 1st century BC. The region’s name, derived from the Latin Provincia Romana, is a legacy of this conquest. They left behind colossal works that can still be visited today including the pristine Pont du Gard aqueduct, the antique theatre in Orange and the amphitheater in Nimes. The 14th-century Papal Schism saw the Pope decamp from Rome to Avignon where they built the imposing Gothic Palais of Papes. Though lesser-known than the Normandy beach landings, hundreds of thousands of Allied troops landed in German-occupied Provence and the French Riviera during the summer of 1944 during Operation Dragoon. In four weeks they succeeded in liberating most of southern France. Visitors can pay their respects in the Rhone American Cemetery in Draguignan. 

The border of the Mediterranean means a lot of sun and fantastic stone fruits and vegetables. Food is often lighter here, featuring olive oil, garlic, and olives rather than the creme, butter, and sauces from further north. Try tapenade (an olive and anchovy spread), ratatouille (a zucchini, eggplant, tomato, and onion-based stew), or  panisse (chickpea flour fries) in Marseille. Provence’s markets are an excellent place to sample the local food.

When To Go: Most of the year is dry and sunny. Spring and Fall are lovely times to visit. The summer is popular, but it can be very hot in July and August. Marseille and Nice are worthwhile year-around. Provence host several renowned festivals in July and August. The Festival d’Aix and the Choregie d’Orange are among the world’s premier opera events. The Festival d’Avignon is the largest theater festival in Europe. The city is transformed for three weeks in July with over dozens of official and hundreds of unofficial productions. The Festival of Rencontres de la Photographie in Arles showcases great photography by old masters and creative new talents. Dozens of exhibitions are held in emblematic sites across the city. 

By Train:  With the TGV high-speed train, Provence has never been more accessible. The train will whisk you away from Paris to Aix-en-Provence or Marseille in about three hours.

By Plane: The main airport in Provence is the Marseille Provence airport located 20 minutes from Marseille and Aix-en-Provence. It is well-connected to major European airports.

What to Eat and Drink:

Cheese: Southeast France’s climate lends itself better to goat cheeses rather than the cow milk cheeses that are produced in other many regions of France. Picodon and Banon are excellent examples. The famous blue Roquefort , declared by the writer Diderot to be “the king of cheese,” is only allowed to be made in caves Northwest of Montpellier.

Wine and Pastis: Southern France produces tremendous quantities of wine. Try trendy rosé wines from Côtes de Provence and the Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence .

Along the southern Côtes du Rhône , Châteauneuf du Pape and Gigondas are perhaps the best-regarded, but there are scores of fantastic wines made here.

Locals love pastis , an anise-flavored spirit. It is cut with ice water to make a refreshing escape from the summer heat.

Experience Provence

Cassis and The Calanques

Cassis is a dreamy fishing village on the Mediterranean. It’s fine dining, white wines, and colorful port are a serious draw. It is set apart by being a perfect gateway into the Calanques National Park. Extending around 15 miles (25 kilometers) west to Marseille, the Calanques are limestone inlets between Marseille and Cassis, where dramatic cliffs meet the turquoise sea forming secluded beaches. The beaches are accessible by a sporty hike or by boat from Cassis or Marseille’s Vieux Port to take in this natural wonder. 

Aix-en-Provence and the Luberon 

Aix-en-Provence (pronounced like the letter x) is the ancient center of Provence. It owes its elegant atmosphere to the gorgeous 17th and 18th-century mansions and omnipresent fountains that line its streets. Along the Cours Mirabeau and Vieille Ville, chic cafes and boutiques seduce passerby’s. Every day visitors can see a food, flower, or antique market in the city center. Fans of the painter Paul Cézanne can visit his studio, the Atelier Cézanne, and observe the neighboring Sainte-Victoire mountain, a frequent subject of his paintings. North of Aix, the Luberon massif’s countryside and villages will seduce any visitor. The rusty red town of Roussillon, the hilltop-perched Gordes, and the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque are highlights. Come in July to admire the vast violet lavender fields in bloom.

Côte du Rhone Wine Trail

Wine has been produced for more than 2,000 years along the Rhone River between Avignon and Lyon. Today the Côte du Rhone produces some of the most famous wine in the world including France’s first appellation d’origine contrôlée Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The Rhone is truly a wine lovers paradise with a remarkable landscape consisting of rolling hills and vineyards and the occasional historical village.

Lavender Route

The world-famous lavender fields are among the most beautiful landscapes in all of France. Throughout the years, lavender has held a prominent place in the history and culture of Provence. The lavender fields start blooming in June each year and usually by mid-July reach peak bloom. By the middle of August the lavender is usually harvested. Some of the best places to see lavender include Valensole, Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, Sault, and Drôme. Visit a distillery to bring some of the scents of Provence home with you in the form of essential oils, soaps, or honey.

Favorite Hotels

Les Bords de Mer

Domaine de Fontenille

Domaine de Capelongue

L'Hôtel Particulier

Villa Gallici

Hotel La Mirande

Hotel Villa La Coste

La Bastide de Gordes

Related articles.

11 of the Most Charming Towns and Villages in Provence

A Weekend Getaway to Provence

Best Luxury Hotels in Provence

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How To Spend a Luxurious Weekend in Provence

Here's everything you need to know when planning a dreamy french getaway to provence..

Provence is often associated with fields of lavender, charming storybook villages and delicious wine—and for good reason. This region of southern France has everything you need for a restful weekend away, whether it’s an addition to a longer European itinerary or a quick jaunt from Paris . The area’s scenic countryside and colorful towns boast opulent hotels , as well as high-end restaurants, notable museums and, of course, vineyard after vineyard. 

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Because Provence is a rather vast region, it’s best to rent a car and plan out each day to include a few villages or attractions. Some of the most scenic towns, like Gordes and Roussillon, are within minutes of each other, making it easy to hit several places without long drives in between. If you prefer not to get behind the wheel, base yourself in Aix-en-Provence and embark on day trips with a private guide or tour group. Those traveling to and from Paris can hop on a SNCF or Ouigo train from the Aix or Avignon TGV stations (it’s about three hours by train). If your time is limited, don’t worry about trying to see everything. All of Provence is beautiful, so wherever you end up will be well worth the trip. 

Here’s everything you need to know about planning a weekend away in Provence.

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Where To Stay

La Bastide de Gordes

Gordes is known as one of Provence’s most beautiful towns, and the hillside village delivers with impressive views, both as you drive up and from the streets themselves. La Bastide, a five-star hotel, takes full advantage of the scenery thanks to its position high on a cliffside. It’s composed of 40 rooms and suites, which showcase a refined historic style, with several bars and restaurants. Guests can unwind at the Airelles Spa, where outdoor treatment areas allow you to get a massage while breathing in the countryside air. Nearby, Gordes is filled with bistros and bakeries, including a Ladurée boutique. 

Villa Gallici , Relais & Châteaux

Villa Gallici, a Relais & Châteaux property, combines the indulgent luxury of a country hotel with the convenience of a city. Located in Aix-en-Provence, the hotel is situated near the Atelier de Cezanne, with the opportunity to stroll into the center of town. The ornate and colorful rooms and suites are filled with antique furnishings, and there are two villas with private pools and jacuzzis. Guests can enjoy dining at a restaurant led by chef Christophe Gavot, as well as amenities including a spa, wellness center and a swimming pool, which is perfect for the summer heat. 

Le Saint-Rémy

If you’re heading to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, you’ll find contemporary luxury at Le Saint-Rémy, a five-star hotel set in a 19 th century townhouse. The décor is described as “gypsy jet-set,” with chic furnishings and a peaceful vibe. There’s a swimming pool, outdoor terrace, spa and fitness center, and the location, in the heart of the town, is ideal for those who don’t want to constantly hop in the car. Guests looking for something more private can book the Magnolia Villa, which sleeps up to 10 people.  

Baumanière, Relais & Châteaux

Les-Baux-de-Provence is a notably scenic and quaint town, set high up on a hillside. It’s there travelers will discover Baumanière Hôtel & Spa, which is comprised of five historic buildings, including an 18th-century manor and a Provençal farmhouse. The rooms have an upscale countryside feel, and the hotel also features a spa, three swimming pools and a tennis court. The property’s restaurant, L’Oustau de Baumanière, helmed by Glenn Viel, holds three Michelin stars and showcases ingredients from the local Alpilles area. 

Musée Granet, Aix-en-Provence

Aix’s charming small art museum houses an impressive collection, including works by Cezanne, who lived and worked in the area. The museum is divided between historical and modern works, and also boasts a gallery of marble sculptures by artists from Provence. A ticket offers access to both Musée Granet and its newer extension, Site Granet XXe, which houses the collection of Jean Planque in a former church. Aix is also home to Atelier de Cézanne , where visitors can explore the artist’s former studio.  

Saint-Paul de Mausole, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

The influence of Van Gogh spreads across Provence, but his presence is most felt in Arles and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, two places he spent time painting. The latter, a charming village worth a visit on its own, is where Van Gogh lived for a year, voluntarily housed in an asylum. Today, Saint-Paul de Mausole features a museum that recreates Van Gogh’s room and showcases where he created some of his most famous works. Visitors can also stroll through the gardens, which are filled with lavender, poppies and iris, depending on the time of year. Nearby, Musée Estrine showcases works by artists who have been inspired by Van Gogh. 

Château des Baux, Baux-de-Provence

The castle of Les Baux, which overlooks the village of Baux-de-Provence, may be partially in ruins, but it still merits a trip. Many of the former buildings remain, including the Chapel of Saint Blaise, and the exhibition details the fortification’s vast history. The castle offers combined tickets with the Carrières de Lumiéres , a former quarry that features art projections, and those visiting the Yves Brayer museum can use their castle ticket for a discount. 

Camargue Regional Natural Park

There’s a lot to do outdoors in Provence, from kayaking to countryside hikes to cycling. But the best place to experience the region’s wildlife is in Camargue Regional Natural Park, located west of Arles. The protected area is home to herds of wild horses, bulls and flamingos, as well as more than 300 species of birds. Combine a drive through the Camargue with a half-day visit to Arles, known for its well-preserved Roman Amphitheatre. Scenic, sandy beaches can be found in Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a seaside resort town  at the edge of the Camargue.  

Lavender Museum

During the summer months, Provence blooms purple with seemingly endless fields of lavender. The best time to see it in full force is in July; however, the Lavender Museum, located in the Luberon valley, celebrates the plants year-round. The small museum showcases the relationship between the region and lavender, as well as how it is harvested and prepared, while the shop is a great place to purchase souvenirs. Nearby, learn about olive oil at the Musée de l’Huile d’Olive , where you can taste the local wares. 

Where To Eat

Restaurant de Tourrel, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Located in the Hotel de Tourrel, Restaurant de Tourrel is well-regarded for the modern Mediterranean cuisine created by Michelin-starred chef Matthias Schütz. The restaurant grows its own produce in a garden in nearby Eygalières, and uses meat and fish from local farms and fishermen. The wine list, which features more than 900 different options, also focuses on the region, with many choices from the South of France. Book a table in advance, especially if you’re not staying at the hotel. 

Pierre Reboul, Aix-en-Provence

Avant-garde is the name of the game at Pierre Reboul, which currently holds one Michelin star. The seasonal dishes are playful, fun and sometimes unusual as Reboul presents his unique take on molecular gastronomy. The tasting menu is a worthwhile splurge, especially for diners who appreciate a visual punch. Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time.

Le Gibolin, Arles

Sure, y ou could eat at the touristy Van Gogh café in Arles—or you could book a table at Le Gibolin, a charming bistro with a Bib Gourmand. Led by chef Arnaud Jourdan, the restaurant is market-led and relatively casual. The dishes are rustic rather than overwrought, and somehow feel both traditional and modern. The wine list, which focuses on biodynamic offerings, makes for a perfect pairing. 

Clover Gordes, Gordes

Viewers of Emily In Paris may recognize this spot, located in La Bastide de Gordes, as the Provence restaurant where Emily and Gabriel share a memorable lunch. In reality, the restaurant is run by chef Jean-Francois Piège, who focuses on vegetable-driven dishes that highlight his love of the grill. The terrace overlooks the Luberon valley, so be sure to ask for a table outside. 

Farinoman Fou, Aix-en-Provence

Good bakeries are plentiful in the South of France, but many locals consider Aix’s Farinoman Fou to be one of the best. Stop by for one of the famous fougasse aux olives, which are beloved by chef Hélène Darroze. 

Local Markets

Because Provence is home to hundreds of farms, the town markets are often the top places to buy produce, meat, bread and cooked dishes. Highlights include the Sunday market in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, which takes over the entire center of town, and Aix’s tri-weekly market, open on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. There are also nice markets in Arles, Uzes, Nimes, Roussillon, Avignon, Gordes and Vaison la Romaine. Arrive early if you want to avoid the crowds and score the best fruit. 

Where To Drink

Châteauneuf-du-Pape

The town of Châteauneuf-du-Pape may be small and quaint, but its outpouring of impressive wine packs a punch. Visitors can explore one of the many vineyards, or head into the village center to indulge in tastings at the wineries’ cellars, like Clos Des Papes. If you’re not sure what to pick, the local bars and cafes serve glasses and bottles of local wares. Near the castle ruins, look for Le Jardin de Paval, which offers views of the Rhone and the surrounding valley. 

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Céleste, Aix-en-Provence

There are numerous wine bars in Aix, but those looking for a cocktail should grab a table at Céleste. The chic spot serves both classic and original cocktails, with a focus on creations unique to the bar. It opens at 6 p.m. daily, and the keeps booze flowing until the early hours of the morning. 

Domaine de la Citadelle

The region of Provence encompasses several wine AOCs, which means there are endless vineyards to tour when visiting. Where you go depends on what sort of wine you want to taste, although there are some wineries that deserve a trip regardless of your tasting preference. Domaine de la Citadelle, located in Ménerbes, earns rave reviews for its impressive grounds and tasting room, as well as its scenic setting in the Luberon valley. 

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Mana, Aix-en-Provence

If coffee is more your vibe, Paris’ dynamic coffee scene is rapidly spreading south. Mana, found in the heart of Aix’s shopping district, is the best coffee shop in the area, especially if you are particular about your lattes or prefer oat milk. The laid-back spot also serves breakfast and lunch. 

• SEE ALSO : Don’t Just Retire; Rewire

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Your Fabulous 4 Day Provence Itinerary

2021 was the second year in a row that I decided to abandon all reason as spending almost my entire money on a trip to the Provence in France ! This year I added more time at the Cote Azur to my beloved lavender fields. With this, I think I just found the perfect 4 Day Provence Itinerary that I would like to share with you! This itinerary holds some of my absolute favorite places in France. It has a focus on magnificent sceneries, wonderful road trips, and a little piece of luxurious moments too!

When to go: so for me, the main reason to visit the Provence in summer is the lavender fields in Valensole. For two to three glorious weeks beginning of July, the whole countryside of Valensole turns into a purple dream that is so worth a visit! As this itinerary mainly focuses on this event, I suggest you going at this exact time. For next year, make sure to mark the first weekend of July for your trip to Valensole!

This post contains affiliate links. That means that if you click on the products and book your tour or hotel via this link, I can get a commission. By doing so, you are doing me a huge favor, making it easier for me to be financially able to keep providing travel content for you!

Day 1: Nice & the Provence

Arriving in nice.

If you are coming from Europe you are much likely to arrive at Terminal 2. From there you can directly get to the car rentals. If you still planned some time for breakfast in Nice, you can go there easily by train. In that case, you can leave your luggage at the airport in the storage.

Directly outside of Terminal 2 and 1, there is a tram stop. And for only 1,5€ you can directly take the tram to Port Lympia. It is very easy to find and will already give you some nice ocean views!

Breakfast in Nice & Strolls in Nice

My recommendation for all pastry lovers is the Déli Bo. in Nice. Without my caffeine in the morning, I am barely a person. And furthermore for it to be a truly perfect morning, macarons should also be involved. You can get both at the Déli which made it the perfect start to our time in Nice for me!

My Favorite Breakfast Places & Cafés in Paris & Eating Macarons at Ladurée

One thing you have to explore for sure when in Nice is Port Lympia. We did so after our breakfast and exploring the area around the harbor is simply magnificent. The houses are all so pretty and in my opinion, nothing beats a stroll along the ocean side. And Nice has for sure a pretty one!

After our morning stroll in Nice, we had to go back to Nice airport to pick up our rental car! With it, we embarked on an amazing road trip through the South of France. We rented a small car at Europcar and were so delighted to see we got an actual Fiat 500.

Gorges du Verdon & Lax de Sainte Croix

So my ultimate dream destination is the lavender fields for sure and they will also play a huge role in this blog post. I doubt there will ever be a sight that amazes me more. But before we get there we still had some driving to do and some amazing sights to marvel at. Between Nice and Valensole is no other than the fabulous Gorges du Verdon, one of Europe’s deepest canyons. This fact is already impressive to begin with. Yet the most special thing about the Gorges du Verdon is that the river running through the canyon has the brightest turquoise color! To have one of the most picturesque road trips in Europe you have to get down the D952 . You can find the directions below.

As we just took the scenic route and only stopped for a few photography breaks, we didn’t spend enough time at the Gorges. If you are interested to explore it further, you can also hike the area and even swim in it in certain locations. If you want more detailed information on this, I think you should check out my friend Lea’s blog post about exploring the Provence besides the lavender fields !

At the end of the Gorges du Verdon, you will find the Lac de Sainte-Croix an artificial lake. It also comes with the most gorgeous color. It almost looks like a big gem, sparkling in the sun. We only came past it that day, as our destination was a very cute French town. Nevertheless, if you follow this itinerary, you will get to spend some time in this awesome gem!

Related: How to Prepare for a Trip to Paris!

Moustiers de Sainte Marie

This has to be one of my favorite places in France that I have been to so far! Moustiers de Sainte Marie is a pure dream coming true. Small, narrow roads are framed by pastel-toned houses with matching shutters. It smells like lavender everywhere as every little shop sells it lilac flower in all possible shapes and sizes, like bouquets, soaps, or as an essential oil. My personal highlight this year was to try Lavender ice cream for the very first time. I can’t recommend it to every lavender-loving person out there!

Day 2: Lavender Overload

Sun rise in the lavender fields.

The thing that amazes me the most about Valensole‘s lavender fields is that throughout the day you will see a variety of different shades of lilac. My favorite time of the day is sunrise. Then the lavender fields of Valensole come in this magnificent dark purple color and you can watch them glow up lighter and brighter as the sun starts to rise.

Tip: check the beginning of the golden hour with your weather app. Once the sun has begun to rise, you will have one hour of optimal lighting to take pictures and videos! For all those who don’t know what the golden hour is, let me explain! An hour before the sun sets, the sun is getting real low and therefore the light is getting very golden. It is also a very soft light, which won’t create any harsh shadows on your face when you are being photographed. Therefore it is the perfect time for you to take some pictures!

Also if you don’t want to rent a car, you can also book a guided tour to the lavender fields via GetYourGuide!

Breakfast in Valensole

After twirling and frolicking all morning some of you might feel a bit hungry. Also while my creative spirit was satisfied my coffee-loving spirit wasn’t at this point of the trip. In Valensole we found a very nice brasserie with a small terrace that was the perfect spot for having a café au lait and a croissant.

Chilling by the Lake

After the photo shooting and breakfast, it is time for some further adventures around Valensole. We decided to dedicate our time there to get a tan. Therefore we drove to the lovely town of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon where we found a lovely beach to spend a couple of hours at.

If you are not up to just chilling, you can also seize your afternoon by exploring more of the Gorges du Verdon by renting a boat or a kayak. For all those who feel more comfortable on land than on the water, you can also go on a hike in the Gorges du Verdon. No matter what you decide, you will have an awesome day surrounded by the most amazing landscapes!

Dinner in Valensole & Sunset in Valensole

After enough tanning, it was already time for dinner. We had ours in Valensole in a lovely small restaurant. The Comptoir de Valérie gives you an amazing view above a pretty small piazza that will give you the most amazing French vibes. It will be a dinner you will always remember!

When planning your dinner, make sure to align its end with the beginning of the golden hour. It is just the same as with sunrise; as a photographer, you simply have to seize this time of the day!

Therefore we headed back to the lavender fields and just choose the ones we liked the best and that wasn’t that crowded. The one that really stood out was right next to a field of blooming sage, which can also be found in Valensole during that time of the year. This type of sage blooms in a magnificent rose and is just as picturesque as the lavender fields!

Restaurants in Paris You Shouldn’t Miss!

Day 3: Back to Nice

On our third day, it was already time to get back to Nice again. Originally we had planned to get up early for another sunrise but the weather changed our plans. When we got up it was raining and very dark and therefore not the best timing for us to run around in the lavender fields. Therefore we just had a lat pain au chocolat and café au lait in Valensole before taking the last glimpse upon some lavender fields before we say goodbye to Valensole for this year.

Staying in Nice

We drove back to Nice, where we dropped off our car at the airport (Believe me, it was so hard to say goodbye to our Fiat 500 so soon). From there we took the train back to the city center where we had our hostel and I can recommend it to anyone who wants to spend some time in Nice! The hostel is spacious and has clean facilities. Furthermore, they have lockers and are just two blocks away from the beach, making it a perfect base for your time in Nice!

Nice Beach & Beach Bar

One of the main attractions of Nice is its beautiful beach and lovely promenade. Every 500 meters or so you will find a beach bar with its own private beach section. If you like, you can rent a sunbed for the day, have some food and drinks there. It is quite pricey but for one day, you will love to feel like the posh queen you deserve to be!

Nice Old Town

When you have had your first drink and are satisfied from looking at the ocean for a moment, you should also explore the old town. It is an incredibly pretty one, with amazing little stores, offering handmade goods as well as souvenirs, cafés, restaurants, and stores that sell gelato. If you want you can wander around for hours, admiring the little alleys, looking at the cute pastel-colored houses, and spending one Euro or two!

The Old Town is also the perfect place for you to have your dinner. There are countless restaurants offering a huge variety of food in all price ranges.

Day 4: Monaco and Sun Frying Yourself

We have come to the last day on this itinerary but we still have one or two highlights on it for you! You will get to add a new country to your list of visited countries, see the property of the insanely rich, have some beautiful ocean views, and will enjoy the French Riviera to the fullest.

Did you know that Monaco is a sovereign city-state and if you visit it, you can easily add another country to your list of visited countries! While being the smallest city-state in the world it is also one of the places with the densest population. Many people apply for Monegasque nationality to save money on taxes. It is quite a rich state, which shows when looking at its main attractions. They are insanely magnificent and pretty. Apart from the main attractions which are listed down below, I had a rather dull impression of Monaco, as most of its other buildings were built to host as many people as possible. All of them are eager to save tax money of course. I loved the casino and the Jardins but what I loved best was the train ride from Nice to Monaco, which goes along the ocean, with some amazing views upon the French Riviera. But on the bright side, this will give you more time to go back to Nice and enjoy it some more!

Things to see in Monaco

• Casino Monte Carlo
• Jardins de la Petite Afrique
• Jardin de Musée National de Monaco
• Port Hercule

Time for the Beach!

After exploring Monaco for a while we headed back to Nice, enjoying our last afternoon. We went from our hostel to the beach, lay down our towels, and just fried ourselves in the sun. Of course, make sure to apply loads of sunscreen, as the sun can be very intense. Also, make sure to go for a swim too! In the evening go for another round of food in the Old Town. I bet you will find a ton of options!

The next morning it was time to leave Nice for this year. I hope you liked this very itinerary and found some gems in it! If you had a great time, please let me know in the comments! Idf you want some further information about my adventures in France, check out the time I went to Paris for a weekend and went to the Top of the Eiffel Tower !

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• Road Trips in Provence
• Things to do
• The Most Beautiful Routes

From the coast of the Mediterranean to the ochre lands of the Luberon; the summits of Sainte-Victoire to the canyons of the Gorges du Verdon; and the buzz of cities to the calm of southern villages, an unexpected experience awaits you on the roads of Provence.

Circuit Durée 6 jours Lieux visités Marseille Arles Camargue Luberon Provence Verte Les Calanques

Don your sunglasses and head to the port for a coffee on the terrace. The people at the table next to you enthusiastically comment about that day’s catch. Intrigued, you order six sea urchins, the caviar of the Mediterranean that locals devour with a spoon. Then it’s off for a walk around the harbour. Here, civilisations have come and gone, leaving behind little streets, lovely tree-lined squares and ochre-coloured houses which reflect the sunlight. The heat leads you back to the shady terraces. It’s the perfect moment to order a glass of rosé, dry and smooth at the same time. The first sip will whisky you away to the sunny vines of the Pays d’ Aix , at the foot of Montagne Sainte-Victoire. At the end of the day, at the end of the pier, admire the sunset behind the « pointus » (small Mediterranean fishing boats) bobbing on the swell.

It would not take much for this journey, however short or long it may be, to invigorate you with an energetic, free spirit. The stage has been set: you are in the Mediterranean… Cassis ,   Marseille ,   Saint-Tropez ,   La Ciotat ,   Toulon ? Do you actually know what port you are in?

Head west for a safari into the wilds. Just an hour from Marseille, Aix or Avignon , the  Camargue  offers the unexpected landscapes of reeds, lagoons and salt marshes, the environment of flooded lands. Through your binoculars enjoy observing this little natural paradise, with 400 species of migratory birds, including the largest colony of pink flamingos in Europe​​​. It is one of the greatest treasures in Provence ! In Arles , wander in the streets and explore the Roman ruins including the monumental arena. As at the nearby Pont du Gard, in Arles you can walk in the footsteps of the Romans . The Camargue is truly a timeless escape.

As you wander along the pedestrian-only streets of Avignon, the mistral brings in a bit of fresh air. From the majestic and imposing Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) ​​ you can head off on a short walk to the garden of the Rocher des Doms. In this peaceful place, the view opens onto the roofs of the city, the Pont d’Avignon, the Rhône and even Mont Ventoux , giant of Provence and star of the Tour de France. Continue on your way to perched villages , fields of lavender, vines, and sunflowers. Along pleasantly winding roadsides, the very essence of Provence parades before your eyes. Stop at L’Isle sur la Sorgue, to hunt for bargains at the antique shops or cool off on a terrace on the banks of the Sorgue. Surely you will try a little Rinquinquin, the peach aperitif that is typical of Provence ?

Careful now, say LubEUron ​​, the locals much prefer that! Here, the cliffs are tinted yellow, orange and red. You have arrived in the Colorado Provençal . To the east you’ll find the dizzying Gorges du Verdon , which are a clarion call to adventure and to surpass oneself. But before that, nothing beats a little nap in a poppy field, with a lullaby from the cicadas.

The adventure continues. Lovers of the great outdoors looking for sublime panoramic views should ascend the peaks of Sainte-Baume . Once at the summit, the view plunges over coloured landscapes and picturesque villages. To the south, spot Aubagne ​​​​​and the Garlaban Massif . To the east, it’s Provence Verte, with the town of Cotignac and its rock face that hides troglodyte houses, then Barjols and its collection of fountains.

The end of your Provençal odyssey approaches. We’re off for a last turn on the Route des Crêtes , between La Ciotat and Cassis. A dry, rocky landscape flashes past you on this incredibly scenic road that smells of thyme and rosemary. The white of the cliffs gorgeously contrasts with the turquoise blue of the Mediterranean. Facing you are the Calanques , and behind them, a breath-taking and exceptional view over Marseille.

There is no secret to it, to experience Provence to the fullest you have to slow down and move at nature’s pace. Here, heat and wind set the tempo. The seasons decide the menu, and men and women, often caricatured but never equalled, welcome you with their singsong accent to introduce you to the irresistible Provençal lifestyle. Want to continue the adventure? It is completely up to you: the summits and the great Alpine outdoors await you …

Where to vacation in the Alps

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