trip report provence

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!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 1, 2 to 3 Days in Toulouse Itinerary

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Nice Itinerary

The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Burgundy 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?

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Top Destinations

• Food + Drink

Explore the best of the world. Access insider tips and hotel recommendations from our travel tastemakers

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

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.

RELATED: 24 Most Beautiful Places in the World to Add to You Bucket List

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

• 6 Must-See Spots in the French Riviera
• 10 Best Boutique Hotels in Paris
• 9 Places to Spot Celebs in Cannes

All products are independently selected by our writers and editors. If you buy something through our links, Jetsetter may earn an affiliate commission.

Become a Jetsetter.

Use our insider connections to know where to go and what to do.

Thanks for Signing Up!

Related Tags

Explore more.

The Coolest Things to Do in Barcelona Now

Where to Eat, Sleep, and Play in Edinburgh, Scotland

Lisbon for Food Lovers

The Coolest Things to Do in Tokyo

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

Please note that some of the links may be affiliate links , and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products & companies I love and use, and the income goes back into making this little blog successful!

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.

• United Kingdom
• Curated Stays
• Wine Travel
• About Isabelle
• Work with Us

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

• Isabelle Hoyne
• April 11, 2024

** Disclosure: some of the links on this site are affiliate links and should you make a purchase through these, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!**

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)

Like this post? Please share or save for later

Related topics.

• Itineraries

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.

You May Also Like

• Lisbon & Tagus

Is Sintra Worth Visiting? 12 Pros, 5 Challenges + Top Tips

• March 5, 2024

Where to Stay on the French Riviera: 11 Best Locations (& Hotels)

• February 29, 2024

How Many Days to Spend in Sintra: Tips, Itineraries + More

• February 23, 2024

Input your search keywords and press Enter.

Follow our travels on Instagram!

The Perfect Southern France Itinerary – 7 Days in Provence

Creating a 7-day itinerary for the South of France is no easy task. With so much to see and do, you really do have to narrow your focus a little or you could end up spending all of your time in the car!

With this in mind, I’ve created the perfect Southern France itinerary that will allow you to see many of the highlights of the region while minimising driving time and allowing you to chop and change some aspects to suit your holiday style.

This South of France itinerary focuses on what I consider to be the most beautiful and authentic area of Southern France – Provence . I’m lucky enough to call Provence home, and I love sharing my knowledge of what makes this region of France so special. So let’s jump in and start planning your holiday to Provence!

Itinerary for a Week in Provence, France

Ideally, you’ll arrive on a Friday and leave on a Friday to take full advantage of the following Provence itinerary. It’s been designed to make the most of opening times, market days and other seasonal events.

But if that’s not possible, don’t despair! You’ll still have a brilliant time, and you can mix the days up as you choose.

The following itinerary also assumes you’ll have a car available to use during your visit. Although some people are nervous about driving in France, there really isn’t too much to be concerned about. I really believe the best way to explore Provence is by car, so you can go at your own pace, discover hidden gems and stop at breathtaking roadside scenes as you go.

Tips for Getting Around Provence

• The roads are narrow, so it’s best to hire a smaller car ( book your car rental here ).
• Directions are well signposted, or you can get around with the help of a map, GPS, or map on your phone.
• Stick to smaller road networks instead of the motorway to drive alongside vineyards and olive groves, and you’ll get to see some beautiful hamlets or smaller villages that you’d otherwise miss.

Best Time to Visit Provence

It’s hard to pinpoint the best time to travel to Provence, as it depends on what you want to do while you’re here! With that said, there are definitely pros and cons for each season, so I’ll go over these briefly below.

Visiting Provence in Winter

Winter is not a popular time to visit Provence unless you’re headed for the Alps! It’s therefore much quieter around the region, but as a consequence, you’ll find a lot of the attractions are closed during this period.

• Good deals on accommodation
• Experience the ‘real Provence’
• Visit beautiful Christmas markets and experience Provençal Xmas traditions
•  Some tourist attractions closed
• Colder weather

Visiting Provence in Spring

I know I said it’s hard to pick the best time to visit Provence, but if I absolutely had to, I’d say Spring. The landscape is filled with wonderfully bright flowers, the sleepier villages start to come to life again and the weather is much more pleasant.

• The sun is out, and the weather is generally lovely by mid-late Spring
• Tourist attractions open their doors again
• Experience Easter celebrations around the region
• Spring is prime time for the Mistral to be blowing – a strong, cool wind that makes it almost impossible to enjoy outdoor activities in exposed areas. The good news is that it usually only lasts a day or so before dying off again.

Visiting Provence in Summer

Summer is, without a doubt, the most popular time to visit Provence. The days are hot and long, the lavender fields are in full bloom, and the beaches are perfect for sunning yourself. But there are also downsides to visiting in the busy period of June to September.

• Consistently hot, dry weather.
• Perfect time to enjoy swimming in the Mediterranean, or in your own pool
• Many festivals and events take place throughout July & August
• Crowds, especially on the beaches
• Some walking tracks (such as the Calanques walk ) are closed due to the risk of wildfires

Visiting Provence in Autumn

Autumn is another good time to visit Provence. The weather remains hot throughout September and the crowds begin to thin. School is back, which means mid-week trips to the beach and attractions are much quieter.

• Weather at the beginning of Autumn is hot, and it remains fairly warm throughout the season
• School is back, meaning fewer holidaymakers are around
• You can expect more rain in Autumn than in Spring.

Looking for more Provence travel inspiration? Don’t forget to join our free Facebook group  Provence Travel Planning !

Where to Stay in Provence

To choose the best place to stay in Provence, I’d advise you to have a read of our Provence Hotel Guide .

For the purposes of this itinerary, I’ve recommended the best location to stay for each day in order to reduce the number of accommodation changes throughout the week. No one likes to have to pack up and check-in/out of hotels every day!

I’m going to start the itinerary in the popular base of Avignon , but you could just as easily pick a base in many a place nearby. L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue is a good choice if you’d like a slower pace, and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a popular spot too.

Alternatively, you could do this Provence itinerary backwards and start in Aix-en-Provence !

Day 1 (1/2 Day) Pont du Gard & Avignon

Stay: Avignon

Arrival day in Provence! Whether you’re driving, taking the train, or flying into Provence, it’s going to eat up a few hours of your first day, so I’ve started this itinerary with a half-day, and it’s ending with a half-day on day eight.

Once you’ve arrived and are ready to explore – set the tone of your tour around Provence with a visit to one of the finest sites in the South of France! The Pont du Gard is just a half-hour drive from Avignon and the perfect place to spend your first afternoon.

Before leaving Avignon, pop into Les Halles to pick up some picnic supplies. Les Halles is Avignon’s centrally-located covered farmers market that’s open every day except Monday and offers an authentic way to get acquainted with the fresh flavours of the region.

Tip – If you happen to be visiting Avignon on a Saturday, don’t miss the live cooking demonstration at Les Halles at 11 am! 

Once you arrive at the Pont du Gard you can settle down for lunch with a view of the highest Roman aqueduct in the world. Depending on the weather, you may like to take a dip in the Gardon River before drying off and strolling across the bridge into the heavenly scented bush on the other side.

When you head back into Avignon, you can enjoy dinner in the old town, where you’ll find plenty of dining options – from Michelin Star restaurants to cheap and cheerful family-run bistros.

Day 2 – Avignon

Leave the car parked today and explore the sights of Avignon by foot.

Start with a visit to the most famous attraction in Avignon , Palais des Papes. Once home to the Popes (hence its name), the well-preserved palace is an intriguing place to visit throughout the morning. Take a virtual tour of the palace and papal apartments before pausing for lunch.

For a fun lunch experience, you could try the open kitchen in Les Halles – Cuisine Centr’Halles. Or simply fill up on delicious treats from the boulangerie before heading to your next stop – the Pont d’Avignon.

If you’ve seen a photo of Avignon, you’ve most likely seen a picture of its most famous bridge. Once spanning the length of the Rhône, nowadays only 4 of its original 22 stone arches remain. Take a stroll to the end, pop inside the petite chapel, and visit the exhibition that includes a couple of short films about the history of the bridge.

Tip – A combined ticket to the Pope’s Palace and the Pont d’Avignon will save you money. Buy your tickets here.

In the afternoon, head to Avignon’s elevated garden, Rocher des Doms, for stunning views of the city. The shaded garden is a good place to seek respite from the afternoon heat, have a cool drink at the café, or relax by the pond as you watch the peacocks strutting by.

Day 3 – L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue and Fontaine de Vaucluse (plus Grottes Option)

Head to the charming canalside town of L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue. Known as the antique capital of Provence, you’ll be spoiled for choice if you’re looking for a unique souvenir or memento of your time in France.

Even if you don’t visit on market day (Sunday), there are many brocantes and antique stores dotted throughout the town where you’ll find both expensive and inexpensive gems.

Enjoy lunch at one of the cafés positioned to make the most of the town’s unique situation. L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue translates to “the island on the (river) Sorgue” and you certainly feel as though you’re on an island as you explore the water framed streets. Wander past the moss-covered waterwheels that serve as a reminder of the town’s textile industry before heading to the nearby village of Fontaine de Vaucluse.

It’s in Fontaine de Vaucluse that you’ll find the source of the river Sorgue. A deep spring emerges from the craggy mountainside and flows down into the village of the same name.

As you enter the village you’ll find a small smattering of boutiques selling locally made wares, and restaurants strategically positioned to make the most of the stunning views. A short gently sloping walk will take you along a riverside path to the fountain. The fontaine always looks different – sometimes spilling over the rocks and through any stubborn trees that dare grow in its path, and at other times resting silently at the bottom of an orange-hued cave.

As an optional extra, if you have the time, the Grottes de Thouzon make for a fascinating side trip before heading back to Avignon for the night. A short walk through a grotto full of pencil-thin stalactites, cave pearls, and underground lakes will delight you, and the informative guides will make the experience a memorable one.

Day 4 – Les Baux de Provence and Glanum

History buffs will be in their element today with not one but two ancient sites to discover. But even if history isn’t your thing, there’s still plenty of variety to keep everyone happy on day 4 of our 7-day South of France itinerary.

First up you’ll be heading to Les Baux de Provence , officially one of the most beautiful villages in Provence, and home to the magnificent Château des Baux. Although the castle is now in ruins, it remains one of the most impressive châteaux in Provence , and there’s plenty left to explore within the old walls and wider grounds.

Once you’ve taken the time to wander the charming village and explore the château, head 5 mins down the road to Carrières de Lumières. Unlike anything you’ve likely experienced before, Carrières de Lumières is an art-based multimedia show set within an abandoned underground stone quarry in the Alpilles.

The exhibit changes yearly and showcases some of the greatest artists in history. The 2020 exhibition brings works from Spanish artist Salvador Dali to life. The show, “The Endless Enigma” features works spanning the length of the artist’s career. It’s truly one of the most unforgettable things to do in Provence.

Tip – Buy a combined ticket to Château des Baux and Carrières de Lumières to save money.

A short drive back in the direction of Avignon will bring you to the fortified town of Glanum. A remarkable site not far from Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Glanum is over 2,000 years old. It was destroyed by Germanic tribes in 260 AD and has remained abandoned ever since.

First rediscovered in the 16th century, it wasn’t until more recent times that serious excavation and preservation efforts have been carried out. Today you can walk among the ruins while imaging the grand structures that once stood in their place. Peek into the sacred well, rest your eyes on the remnants of the twin temples, and hear the water that flows beneath a deserted street.

Day 5 – The Villages of the Luberon

An absolute must-do on your South of France itinerary is a tour of the Luberon Villages . It’s easy to spend an entire day (or several) exploring the hillside villages and incredible scenery of this unique part of France.

Start at the Sénanque Abbey and you’ll find a wonderful scene framed by fragrant lavender fields in the summer months. From here it’s a short drive to the most famous Luberon village, Gordes .

Tuesday is market day in Gordes, so sample the freshest flavours of the region as you wander around the ancient streets. Think about visiting the Village des Bories nearby before continuing on to the pastel-coloured town of Roussillon.

Built next to an ochre mine, the village lends itself as a haven for artists and the streets are awash with galleries and generous splashes of colour. The ochre mine next door is an attraction unlike any other. Take a short but stunning walk through the dusty red canyons and pine-fringed valleys of the ochre trail before continuing your Luberon tour.

Bonnieux and Lacoste are up next. Both lovely villages with a slower pace of life and enough differences to make them both worthy of a visit. Bonnieux is lovingly restored and has sweeping views over the fertile landscape of the Luberon. Walk the stone staircase to the church at the top of the village for the best views.

Next door, Lacoste is home to a semi-restored château that you can visit during the summer months. At other times, walk around the back of the castle to view the contemporary sculptures and views of surrounding hilltop villages.

A trip to Goult and Ménerbes will round the day off nicely. In Goult, follow the signs through rustic streets to take in all the best bits. Don’t miss the restored windmill and the terraced gardens showcasing the area’s agricultural history.

Ménerbes is best explored at leisure. Stroll the bucolic village before heading to the quirky corkscrew museum nearby and end the day with a wine tasting session at Domaine de la Citadelle.

Tip – full details of your Luberon driving tour and options to extend can be found here.

Day 6 – Camargue and Arles or Nîmes

Stay: Avignon , Cassis, or Aix-en-Provence

The sixth day of your Provence itinerary will see you heading south to one of the most intriguing places in Provence.

The Camargue is Western Europe’s largest river delta with around 930 sq km of marshes and wetlands to explore. Unsurprisingly this fertile land attracts a vast array of wildlife and it’s here you’ll find over 400 species of birds including the impressive pink greater flamingos.  

The infamous black Camargue bulls also roam freely among the reeds and herds of snow-white horses – one of the oldest horse breeds in the world – live in harmony with nature.

The best way to discover this area when you’re short on time is to take a tour. Tours depart Arles and Avignon daily and will allow you to see the best of the Camargue while providing you with an interesting and informative commentary.

Book Your Camargue Tour Here.

Alternatively, you can head directly to Parc Ornithologique du Pont de Gau where you’re almost guaranteed to see flamingos in the wild.

In the afternoon, you can choose to visit Arles nearby, or Nîmes a little further afield.

Arles has a small but perfectly formed old town with plenty to see and do in an afternoon. Take a free Van Gogh walking tour to see the exact spots depicted in the late artist’s work, visit the grand amphitheatre, or take a walk through the underground Cryptoportiques.

Nîmes is a larger town but is still very walkable. It’s notable for its many Roman monuments – many of which are among the most well-preserved in the world. Be sure to take a walk through the magnificent public gardens – the Jardins de la Fontaine.

One of the first-ever public gardens in Europe, they are a fascinating mix of open green spaces, large water features, intricate sculptures, and ancient ruins. Climb to the top of the gardens for unmatched views of the city!

Day 7 – Cassis and the Calanques

Stay: Aix-en-Provence

Cassis is a charming portside town tucked in between towering cliffs near Marseille on the Mediterranean coast. It’s by far one of the more popular places to visit in the South of France due to its recent reputation as the new St Tropez .

But while Cassis benefits from its stunning geographical location, beautiful beaches, and historically interesting sites, personally I think it’s better suited as a day trip destination than a long-term holiday base.

If you arrive early enough, you can stroll through the old town, browse the colourful boutiques, take in the historic buildings, and walk the pier – all in a morning. You then have the option of dining quayside, or grabbing lunch to-go and heading to the calanques.

The Calanques of Cassis are one of the most impressive natural attractions in Provence . The first time I laid eyes on these high-rise limestone cliffs I was absolutely blown away by their incredible size and stature as they jut out into the azure blue sea.

Hiking the calanques is an ideal way to appreciate the natural beauty of this national park, but if you’re short on time, or the track is closed (as it often is during the summer months when the risk of wildfires is higher), then taking a boat tour or hiring a kayak to explore the calanques from below is the way to go.

Whichever way you decide to explore the calanques , it’s sure to be one of the most memorable moments of your trip.

Day 8 – Aix-en-Provence

The last half-day of your one week in Provence itinerary is spent enjoying Aix-en-Provence . The cultural capital of Provence really deserves a longer stay, but perhaps after being immersed in the city for a morning, you’ll be convinced to come back!

Colourful produce and flower markets are held throughout the week filling the streets with the lively atmosphere synonymous with the South of France. After you’ve browsed the wares on offer, stop for a coffee at a corner café or head to one of the famed museums to witness the true heart of this historical city .

The old town is best explored without a plan of attack. You’ll thoroughly enjoy wandering around the curved streets and hidden alleyways, coming across an elaborate – or downright eccentric – fountain at every turn. The Pavillon Vendôme is perfect for a mid-morning repose, and the iconic Hôtel de Caumont arts centre shouldn’t be sidestepped!

Tip – If you’ve forgotten to pick up Provence souvenirs or gifts for those back home, pop into the gift shop in the centrally located tourist office. They stock a small but curated selection of the region’s finest products.

It’s impossible to see everything Provence has to offer in just one week, but this 7-day South of France itinerary is sure to give you an in-depth taster of this delectable part of France !

If you’re looking to extend your trip by a few extra days, I’d suggest checking out my posts on day trips from Avignon , and Aix-en-Provence to find inspiration for a few extra days touring.

Pin this for later!

Similar Posts

France’s Most Beautiful Villages: Roussillon en Provence

Perfectly Provençal – Top 8 Natural Provence Attractions

Ultimate Sault Lavender Fields Tour

Boutique Provence Gift Guide + Exclusive Discounts!

Visiting the Luberon Lavender Fields of Provence, France

The Best Things to do in Aix-en-Provence, France

49 comments.

Loved your Itinerary of South of France. We will be traveling in mid October.

That’s great – so glad you found it helpful!

This sounds amazing! Travelling with an almost 1 year old – do you think it’s doable basing ourselves in Avignon?

Hi Sophie, I think it’s doable with an almost 1-year-old! I remember at that age my son was easy enough to cart around with the help of a baby carrier (easier than prams on French streets!). I’ve deliberately not overloaded the days, as I don’t think rushing around does anyone any favours. So you should be fine 🙂

This is great! Thanks for sharing this one week itinerary to visit Southern France, it indeed is perfect! This will be our itinerary come this week. Appreciate much!

You’re most welcome Berna! I hope you enjoy your time in Provence 🙂

We will be visiting Southern France in Mid May 2019. Your information has been very helpful for our planning. Thank you!

You’re so welcome! Glad you found it helpful 🙂

This is an absolutely fantastic itinerary and so wonderfully well-explained; the best I’ve found anywhere on the Internet. It has helped us immensely to organise our own itinerary. Thank you so much!

This makes me so happy to hear! Thanks for your lovely comment and I hope you have a fantastic holiday in Provence 🙂

Thank you Nadine – terrific suggestions. WE will be heading there in early June 2019 and have almost 2 weeks to spend there. FRom Aix, any suggestions for adding 4 or 5 days?

Hi Beth, with an extra few days you’ll want to spend an extra day getting to know Aix itself. You could also head over to the Verdon Gorge which is breathtaking, as are the surrounding villages. You could spend longer getting to know the Luberon area, and around Sault. Head to St Remy for a stroll, Nimes is a fantastic city for history and gardens and Marseille waterfront area is great for a day trip too. It should be fairly warm by then, so the beaches south of Martigues are perfect and not too busy then!

Planning a spring or fall 2019 trip to Provence- your itinerary looks really good! any concerns about driving? For seniors?

Hi Dick, the advice I’d give you regarding driving, is to hire a small car, and take your time. Allow plenty of time to get around so you can stop and take in the view when it suits you. Try to avoid the main large roads as these can get very busy – especially during peak times. And have some kind of GPS on you. Hope you have a great time 🙂

Your blog post is super helpful (and beautiful pictures as well!). I love that you provided highlights for each of the places mentioned. My husband and I have booked a 10 day trip to France for Feb 2019 and were wondering if you could provide some advice. Here is our tentative itinerary:

Feb. 10th – land in Paris at 10am Feb 10th – 14th: stay in Paris (with a day trip to Versailles on Feb. 13th) Feb 14th – take TVG to Nice (19Euros per person one-way direct) Feb 14th – 17th – stay in Nice (and surrounding region) Feb. 17th – rent car and drive to Aix-en-Provence Feb 17th – 19th – stay in Aix-en-Provence (or somewhere else) Feb 19th – take TVG back to Paris (19Euros per person one-way direct) Feb. 19th – stay in Paris Feb 20th – take flight back home in the morning

What are your thoughts? Do you think we are spending enough nights (or not enough) in each of these regions? Or would you recommend just spending 5 nights in Paris and 5 nights in Nice to keep it simple? Given that it will be winter, would you recommend other regions instead (Annecy? Chamonix (although we don’t ski). Thanks!!

Hi Nadia, so sorry for the delayed reply. Oh, it’s so hard when you only have ten days to explore! So I think you’ve done the right thing by choosing just two areas to explore this time around. I’m kind of biased, but I think Paris and Provence is a good place to start. And then you can plan another trip to France to see some more at a later date 🙂 To answer your question, I think it looks pretty much spot on. Again, I may be a bit biased but I’d cut one day off Nice and move it to Aix – to allow yourself time to explore this side of Provence more. You could even scrape one day off Paris at the beginning – but it depends whether you’re more into city attractions or cultural/countryside attractions. You can see a lot of Paris in 2/3 days. Hope that helps a little and apologies again for the delay!

Wonderful itinerary- thank you for sharing your advice. We are planning on traveling to France this May as a family of 5. The plan is to fly into Paris for a few nights before heading to Provence for 6 nights. I know you recommend driving in Provence, but do you have any suggestions regarding transportation from Paris to Provence? We don’t have any interest in going to Nice during this time, so we would prefer not to fly into that airport. Any advice is appreciated!

Hi Laura, your best bet is to take the TGV to Aix-en-Provence or Avignon – depending on where you’re intending on staying. You could fly into Marseille, but I find the train journey to be much more pleasant and straightforward! Hope that helps 🙂

Thank you, Nadine!

You’re most welcome 🙂

My wife and I are planning to spend 5 days based out of Aix-En-Provence (with hotel points so we are limited there). Do your recommendations change at all if Aix is our home base? We are total wine freaks and love touring the little villages!

Hi Jonathan, with only 5 days, and based in Aix, I’d suggest spending at least two days in the Luberon (where you’ll find plenty of little villages and wineries). Have you read my post about touring the Luberon yet ( find it here )? It has lots of suggestions for driving routes. Then a day maybe down by the coast, around Cassis and the Calanques, a day getting to know Aix, and maybe a day heading over towards Valensole and the Verdon Gorge. More lovely villages around the lake, and if it’s the lavender season (June/July) its the best place to find beautiful fields!

This is really helpful. I’m planning my trip this first week of June 2019. I’m travelling alone though, will you still recommend the same places? Or can you suggest other places as well. I’m thinking of spending 10-15 days after Bordeaux &Lourdes. Thank you very much for your recommendations.

Hi John, yes absolutely! You could also add in the Verdon Gorge (and surrounding villages), the coast around Niolon/Martigues, Sault, or Marseille if you like the city vibe. And/or spend more time in Aix-en-Provence or the Luberon. So many options, sorry 😉

Hello Nadine, Can you give me your thoughts on this itinerary? Houston to Nice, stay in Eze two nights(possibly visit Antibes, Menton, And Vence) drive to St. Remy for three nights(traveling to area village) and Aix for two nights. Fly out of Marsielle. Love your blog!!!!

Hi Melissa, your itinerary looks good to me! By staying in all three areas you’ll get a really good ‘taster’ of these areas – which are all quite different. Have a great trip!

We will be going to South France in May 2019.

Arriving Avignon on 13May for 3 nights. After then 1 night in Provence and 2 nights in Nice.

We have not plan much with our itinerary. Will you be able to help.

Thanks and regards Doreen

Hi Doreen, unfortunately, I can no longer offer personalised itineraries. However, I’d suggest starting by reading my Day Trips from Avignon and Day Trips from Aix-en-Provence articles and noting down which things interest you most and going from there. If you’re staying in Avignon you’ll most likely want to spend a day getting to know the city too – it’s lovely and there is plenty to do! Sorry, I don’t have much written about Nice as yet!

My parents and I have just returned from a wonderful week in Provence. We largely followed your itinerary so I wanted to say thank you! It really saved me a job of researching and coming up with my own itinerary for which I was really grateful! We loved how every day was different (we added a St Tropez day too) and couldn’t actually pick a favourite day as each day offered so much. Unfortunately, though we bought tickets, we didn’t actually go to Carrières de Lumières as the queues were quite ridiculous – which was surprising as we experienced very few queues anywhere else. Instead, we continued straight to Glarnum and really enjoyed the site. In Cassis, we also drove the Corniche des Cretes (which I have visited before) to take in the wonderful view – it was just as impressive as I remembered.

I’m heading back to the South of France this summer to spend a month in Nice/Villefranche-sur-Mer – I cannot wait! I’m hoping for more of the same wonderful weather!

Anyway, thank you again!!

Ah – you are so welcome Sheralyn! Thanks for telling me about your experience and for the lovely feedback. Much appreciated 🙂 Enjoy your time on the Côte d’Azur! Best, Nadine

Hi Nadine, We have about 10 days in Provence this summer (July 26-August 9) after four to five days in Paris. Two of our three children have multiple food allergies, so we plan to rent a house as home base so we can pack and prepare some meals. We would like to do as much as possible on your itinerary. Is this doable staying in just one location? (We would rent a car). If so, where would you suggest we stay? I found a lovely home in Louramin and another in Villars. Are these too remote? The other possibility is finding two different houses to rent but that can get tricky with seven day minimums with most rentals. Thank you! Laura

Hi Laura, Yes renting houses normally comes with a one-week min rental in summer. But don’t worry, it’s totally doable staying at just one location. We often do all of these places as day trips from our home in Rognes. Villars would be good for visiting the Luberon, but Lourmarin is better located for exploring – I’d go with that. It’s a lovely village too. Otherwise, you could look at a village further south for good access routes, like Venelles or Puyricard but they don’t have the same feel as the villages in the Luberon. Hope you find something amazing! Best, Nadine

Sorry, I meant to type Lourmarin. Thank you!

We expect to be there mid to late February next year. I was wondering how the 7 day tour would stack up in winter. It sounds perfect to me and touches on most things we want to see and experience. Are there other places we should go instead. I suspect there will be some rainy days, and it really isn’t swim suit weather but there will be enough and more…. to just be there. So do you get snow there? Is Carnival celebrated there? What would be the best place to stay in winter? So glad I found your site.

Hi Nancy, it changes every year so hard to say specifically. Last February we had a tiny bit of snowfall in February and this year we’re seeing temperatures of up to 20 degrees (Celcius) already and beautiful blue skies – very little rainfall actually as that normally comes later. There are just a few attractions that won’t be open – Carrières de Lumières for example – and less frequent markets, but other than that it’s business as usual. Carnival is celebrated nearby, in Nice, mid-late Feb. For a winter stay I’d still recommend Avignon or Aix as a base for exploring the region. Hope that helps – feel free to pop over to our Provence Travel Planning Facebook group if you have more questions 🙂

We are a kiwi family of 4 and will be arriving in Provence in mid Sept for 11 days. Your itinerary looks fantastic but I’ve seen your comments about driving, particularly the small roads. We have toured that area before in smallish hire cars but this time we were planning to do 1 week in a camper van because the kids love the idea but I’m worried that it will stop us seeing places due to its size / parking etc. As you live there I’d really appreciate your thoughts.

Thanks, Duncan

Hi Duncan, yes I normally recommend smaller cars if you’re inexperienced driving on smaller roads. But as it sounds like you’ve done it before, and if you have experience with campers, you may find it’s ok. With the villages in the Luberon, you’ll need to park outside the villages anyway and there are often large carparks outside for this purpose. Some attractions also have dedicated camper parking – normally a little further away. For example, at the Village des Bories outside of Gordes, there is campervan parking, but quite far away, as the road to access the village is too narrow. Places like the Camargue and Pont du Gard, Avignon & Aix etc you’ll have no trouble I’d imagine. So, it won’t stop you – just be prepared to walk a little further in some cases! Have a fab trip 🙂

Thank you for this! We are a family of 5 who will be visiting the last week of September and basing ourselves in Alleins. Your blog is very helpful! We’d love to do do canoeing, hiking and biking. Do you think the weather at that time of year will be be warm enough to swim in the river or in the sea? Thanks!

Hi Julia, first of all, Alleins is a great village as a base! We used to live there and still have our Airbnb in the village. As for swimming, it’s typically still swimmable in September, as it has had all summer to warm up, but the temperature does taper off a bit by the end of the month. It depends how brave you are 😉 I don’t find our ‘part’ of the Med ever gets super warm… You might be better off going to Lac de Sainte Croix which is absolutely stunning and a must-do if you’re an outdoor loving family! Hope you have a fab time. Nadine

Wonderful itinerary, thank you so much!! My husband and I are coming Oct 11-21 for our honeymoon! We fly into Barcelona and will be renting a car and driving up to Provence area.We get in mid afternoon to Barcelona so we are planning to rent our car and stay on the Costa Brava the night we get in. Then exploring that area for a bit on Sunday, then driving up to France. Wondering what you would recommend- here are our options we have been debating:

1. When driving up from Barcelona, veer off to Carcassone and Toulouse (probably would also visit Albi) for a few days. Then drive over to Provence area, probably Avignon to stay, and be in Provence for around 4-4.5 days. Then drive back to Barcelona.

2. After leaving Costa Brava, drive straight to France, probably stop in Narbonne for the night on the 13th. Head to Avignon and spend the entire time we are there in Provence- doing similar things to what your itinerary outlines. We would have about 6-6.5 days in Provence.

3. After leaving Costa Brava, drive straight to France, probably stop in Narbonne for the night on the 13th. Head to Avignon and spend whole time there. Do a day trip (or potentially a few days) in Lyon.

Which would you recommend? Or is there something we should do even differently? Thanks!!

Hi Melanie, apologies for the delay with my reply. With ten days up your sleeve, you certainly have a fair bit of time to look around. I loved Narbonne when I visited, but I’m not sure how lively it is in October. And I’ll admit I’m not familiar with Lyon yet. I guess it depends if you’re more city people, or village people! Avignon is a beautiful city, that feels more like a large village, especially if you stay in the centre. I would think 6-7 days is a good time to explore the best of what Provence has to offer. And my inclination would be that if you want to see somewhere a little different, to do the Carcassone option on the way. Rather than going all the way up to Lyon. Hope that helps a little!

Hi Nadine, we are travelling to France in january 2021 and depart on a cruise leaving Marseille on 16 january for 8 days. We arrive in Nice about 4/01/20 and would like advise on what to do after that as we want to hire a car and visit the Provence area and the south of Spain for the next 10 days. Do we hire a car in Nice or travel by train to Marseilles or Avignon at where we will hire a car. Because it is winter, we would like to visit Annecy from Lyon, by train or bus to Annecy. Please suggest an itinerary from your experience.

Hi Geoffrey, Seeing as your cruise is departing from Marseille, I’d recommend taking the train (or FlixBus) from Nice to Marseille and hiring a car there. This way you won’t get charged one-way fees that can be quite high. With ten days you could take in Marseille (& Cassis), Aix, Avignon, the Luberon & the Camargue area fairly easily before heading down to Spain. However, you won’t have time to drive to Southern Spain unless you want to spend a lot of time in the car! I’d recommend Catalonia instead. I’m not sure how the Lyon/Annecy trip fits in? Is it part of the ten days, or in addition? Best, Nadine

Thank you for writing this informative article .i have read twice a time

Hi, Nadine, your itinerary is just perfect for our trip that I’m planning for the fall of 2021 for our 30th anniversary. We’ve never been to France and want to fly into Paris, spend 2 days there and then take the train to follow your itinerary. After that we want to make our way down to the Val D’Orcia in Pienza and spend a week at our favorite agriturismo. Is it possible to take a train from Aix to Florence (that’s where we would transfer to get to our car rental in Terantola)?

Hi Judy. I do believe it would be possible. But train travel between the south of France and Italy isn’t normally fast, cost-effective, or straight forward from my experience! I think you may find it’s easier and cheaper to fly from Marseille to Florence. Or from Marseille to Rome and then take the high-speed train to Florence.

Can’t wait

I love your itinerary but I will be traveling with a group that does not want to “move around”. I would love your input on a 5 vs 6 night stay in St Remy. I will be bringing family (total of 4 couples) to Provence April 23-30, 2022. They do not like to “pack & unpack” so I will rent a luxury farmhouse in St. Remy for the either 5 or 6 nights. We will fly back to the US on April 30th. I cannot decide if we should spend 5 nights in St Remy then the last 2 nights at a waterfront hotel on the French Riviera (would have to be within 1 hr of the Nice airport OR the other option is to spend 6 nights in St Remy then just the last night close to the Nice airport. Do you think it’s worth moving those last two nights?? Would it allow enough time to see a little of the French Riviera?? Thank you for any suggestions you might have! Jane

If you have your heart set on seeing the seaside, I’d recommend a 5-night stay in St Remy and 2 nights on the Riviera. But keep in mind, April can be a mixed bag weather-wise and the mistral wind (frequent in spring) can make the seaside unenjoyable some days.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The Smooth Escape

Nature & adventure travel blog

5-day South of France itinerary: Provence road trip for nature lovers

Spanning across the southeastern corner of France, Provence is known for its fragrant lavender fields, fairytale villages, picturesque landscapes and azure blue seas. It is one of the most visited regions in the country and a dream destination for many travelers around the globe. 

With so much to see and do, it’s impossible to explore all the treasures of Provence in one trip, but this 5-day South of France itinerary will surely give you a taste of what this fascinating region has to offer. The best way to experience this part of France is to rent a car or a campervan and take a Provence road trip since many of the top attractions are situated in rather remote places.

As is the case with most of my travel itineraries, this Southern France road trip itinerary focuses on the most beautiful natural attractions and the scenic countryside, and doesn’t include big cities. If you’re keen on seeing the region’s larger cities like Nice, Marseille and Cannes, you can easily add these stops and adjust the itinerary to suit your preferences.

Since this Provence itinerary is a circular route, you could start it either in Nice, Marseille, Avignon or any other place nearby. In this blog post, I will describe the itinerary starting from Avignon. You can see the exact driving route on the map at the end of the article.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase.

The best time to do this South of France road trip

The best time to go on this Provence road trip is from late spring to early autumn. The weather in this period is usually dry and warm and the days are long, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities, beach visits and exploring the charming countryside.

If your main goal is to see the famous Provence lavender fields in bloom, you should time your visit between late June and mid-July. We visited Provence in late July (after exploring the strikingly beautiful Chamonix area) and as we expected, all the lavender was already harvested by then.

June to August is also the peak tourism season in Provence, which means that there are more crowds and accommodation prices are higher. Depending on the weather, some attractions (like the Ochre Trail or Calanques National Park) might sometimes be closed in the summer due to the risk of wildfires.

Driving in Provence

Driving in Provence is safe and pretty simple. The majority of the roads are paved and in good condition.

There are some toll roads, which are of course more convenient and take you to your destination faster, but they can be quite pricy. The small local roads are slower but offer a more scenic drive past enchanting vineyards, olive groves, chateaus and quaint villages. 

Be aware that some of the roads in the mountains are quite narrow and curvy so you need to be extra careful.

We did this Provence road trip with a campervan and really enjoyed it. France offers fantastic conditions for campervanning or motorhoming and we love the freedom and flexibility that comes with this type of travel. If this is something you’d like to do as well, check out Motorhome Republic to find great deals on motorhome, RV and campervan rental in France.

For those who prefer to do this road trip with a regular car and sleep in hotels, I’ve also included my hotel recommendations for each of the days in this South of France itinerary.

As I mentioned earlier, the starting point of this itinerary is Avignon, but you could also start in Nice or Marseille and follow the same circular route (just with a different starting point).

Avignon can easily be reached from Paris by the high-speed TGV train and the journey takes only 2 hours and 40 minutes. Find the schedules and book tickets here . There are several car rental agencies at the Avignon TGV train station.

Day 1: Luberon villages and lavender fields

After picking up your rental car, kick off your 5-day South of France itinerary by visiting some lovely hilltop villages in the Luberon region, just an hour’s drive from Avignon. I explored the villages of Gordes and Roussillon, which are both well worth a visit but I’ve also heard great things about Ansouis, Bonnieux and Goult.

Gordes is often considered to be the prettiest of the Luberon villages (though I have to say I liked Roussillon better). 

Right before entering Gordes, be sure to stop at the roadside lookout point for a glorious view of the entire village. You can find its exact location by searching ‘Town View Point Gordes’ on Google Maps. I’ve also pinned it on the Provence road trip map at the end of this post.

Built on the side of a hill, Gordes is home to medieval stone houses and a labyrinth of steep alleyways. Here you can find charming cafes, restaurants and small souvenir shops selling local handicrafts. Take a stroll through its narrow cobblestone streets, grab a cup of coffee or some lavender ice cream and enjoy the sweeping views of the idyllic Provence countryside.

If you happen to be in Gordes on a Tuesday morning, you can visit the local market in the village square.

Roussillon & the Ochre Trail

Next, drive to the nearby village of Roussillon. What makes this small village so unique is the fact that all of its buildings are dyed in various hues of orange, pink and red. The reason for this is that Roussillon is situated in the middle of one of the largest ochre (a natural pigment) deposits in the world.

With its colorful facades and winding alleys, it’s a truly picturesque village where every corner is worth a photo. The streets and squares here are lined with outdoor cafes, art galleries and small boutiques selling lavender products, ceramics and jewellery.

Consider also walking the Ochre Trail (Sentier des Ocres) in Roussillon. You can choose between a 30-minute or a 60-minute trail. Both of them take you through the former ochre quarry and allow you to get a closer look at the magnificent orange cliffs and rock formations.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to walk the Ochre Trail as it was closed due to a fire risk during my visit.

After roaming around Roussillon, drive to the Valensole Plateau. It is the best and most famous place to see lavender fields in Provence so if you’re visiting during lavender season, don’t miss it! This is where you’ll find those iconic seemingly endless lavender fields that you’ve probably seen in many photos. 

As I mentioned earlier, all the lavender in Valensole was already harvested when we did our Provence road trip in late July. Nevertheless, it was a scenic drive through rolling hills and farmlands, and there was hardly anyone there.

Where to stay

Spend the next two nights in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, my favorite village in this 5-day Southern France itinerary! You’ll probably arrive quite late and not have time to properly see the village on the first night but don’t panic, you’ll have plenty of time to do this on day 2.

Here are my top picks on where to stay in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie:

MID-RANGE: La Ferme Rose This fabulous boutique hotel is full of character and features quirky rooms decorated with antique objects. There’s also a fantastic pool with mountain views.

LUXURY: La Bastide de Moustiers If you’re looking for a romantic Provençal countryside retreat, there’s no better place than this one. Owned by the famous French chef, Alain Ducasse, this renovated country house boasts a Michelin-star restaurant and rustic yet luxurious rooms.

Day 2: Lake of Sainte-Croix, Verdon Gorge & Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Lake of sainte-croix & verdon gorge.

On the second day of your road trip in Provence, get ready to explore one of the most beautiful lakes in France , Lac de Sainte-Croix and the adjacent Verdon Gorge. 

Located in the heart of Verdon Natural Regional Park, this spectacular man-made lake is an ideal place to spend a hot summer day. Swimming in its calm, turquoise, bathtub-warm water is definitely one of the highlights of this 5-day South of France itinerary.

At the lake’s northern tip, you’ll find the mouth of the gigantic Verdon Gorge, also known as the Grand Canyon of France. With its dramatic cliffs and untouched nature, it is one of the most impressive natural wonders of Provence. To get the iconic Verdon Gorge photo, head to Pont du Galetas bridge.

A popular thing to do here is to rent kayaks or pedalo boats near the bridge and cruise along the river into the gorge. During our visit, however, the region had been hit by a serious drought which caused the water level to be so low that boats couldn’t enter the gorge. Unfortunately, this is becoming more and more common due to climate change.

If the water level is too low for boats or you’re simply craving something a bit more adventurous, consider doing this epic ‘aqua trekking’ experience , where you float through the gorge with a life jacket.

Route des Crêtes Verdon

Another fun (and a lot less known) way to see Verdon Gorge is to take a road trip along its rim. You can either drive around the entire gorge or just take the shorter but very scenic Route des Crêtes.

We chose the latter option. Starting at the village of La Palud-sur-Verdon, this loop road passes 14 lookout points or ‘Belvederes’ with jaw-dropping views of the magnificent gorge below. Although it might sound like a hair-raising drive along the edge of a cliff, I was actually surprised by how safe it felt to drive there.

Read my detailed post about the Route des Crêtes Verdon for more useful tips on how to do this road trip.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Spend your evening wandering around Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. It is ranked as one of the most beautiful villages in France and it’s easy to see why. 

Situated below towering limestone cliffs and surrounded by olive groves, the village boasts an exceptional natural setting. Its narrow streets are lined with adorable pastel-colored houses, small fountains and shops selling local pottery. And to top it off, there’s also a waterfall running through the center of Moustiers. This medieval village really can’t get more picturesque.

For a wonderful view over the rooftops of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, walk up to the Chapel Notre-Dame de Beauvoir high above the village.

Spend another night in Moustiers-Ste-Marie at La Ferme Rose hotel or the gorgeous La Bastide de Moustiers country house.

Day 3: Cascade de Sillans & Saint-Tropez

Cascade de sillans.

Continue your South of France road trip by driving to Cascade de Sillans waterfall. Surprisingly, I haven’t seen this place featured in any Provence itineraries, but I think it’s a must-visit spot if you’re fascinated by waterfalls like I am!

In Sillans-la-Cascade village, a short forest trail leads you to an observation deck where you can marvel at this mesmerizing 44-meter (144 ft) waterfall with a gorgeous turquoise pool and lush green vegetation around it. This place could easily be somewhere in Costa Rica ! 

Note that at this observation deck, you can just view the waterfall from a distance and not actually get close to the water. If you’d like to visit the river at the bottom of the waterfall, you need to take an entirely different trail, one called ‘Circuit de Randonnée – La Cascade’ in Google Maps. 

The trail takes you to a magical spot with a clear emerald river flowing through a tranquil forest. If you feel like going for a dip, you are allowed to do so in the river (but not in the pool of the waterfall).

Saint-Tropez

Next, it’s time to head to Saint-Tropez, an iconic coastal town on the French Riviera. Known as a glamorous beach holiday destination, Saint-Tropez is home to luxury yachts, upscale boutiques and a small historic quarter full of colorful old buildings.

While the town is worth a quick visit, the real allure of Saint-Tropez lies in the fabulous sandy beaches around it.

At Pampelonne beach (Plage de Pampelonne), you’ll find a 5 km (3 mi) long stretch of white sand and shimmering turquoise water. Several posh beach clubs line the shore and offer parasols and chairs for rent, but you can also just throw down your towel on the sand and enjoy the beach for free.

From Pampelonne beach you can also take this 3-hour kayaking tour to a secluded cove where you can snorkel with colorful marine life such as seahorses, starfish and cuttlefish.

Bouillabaisse beach is another wonderful sandy beach, which doesn’t have quite as blue water but is an excellent place for watching the sunset.

Spend the night in or near Saint-Tropez.

MID-RANGE: Domaine Les Mésanges Surrounded by vineyards, this charming Provencal country house is a 5-minute drive from Saint-Tropez and has a heated pool, a large garden with olive trees and rooms with rustic decor.

LUXURY: Villa Cosy Hotel & Spa A 5-star boutique hotel located just a short walk from Saint-Tropez center. It features spacious contemporary rooms and an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by a serene garden. There’s also a beautiful spa with a sauna and jacuzzi.

Day 4: La Ciotat, Parc du Mugel & Cassis

The 4th day of this South of France itinerary will be all about exploring the beautiful Mediterranean coastline.

La Ciotat & Parc du Mugel

Start your day with a visit to the seaside town of La Ciotat. This town has a relaxed Mediterranean feel and is home to an old harbor surrounded by brightly colored houses and sidewalk cafes. There’s also a small historic quarter worth strolling through and a waterfront promenade lined with palm trees. 

The main reason I recommend visiting La Ciotat though is Parc du Mugel. Set on a rocky peninsula, this 12-hectare botanical garden features a variety of exotic plants and views of the massive Bec de l’Aigle (The Eagle’s Beak) rock. 

The park also has two small pebble beaches – Grand Mugel and Petit Mugel. Thanks to their calm, crystal-clear water, these beaches are great for snorkeling, and you’re likely to see a variety of fish around the rocks.

After exploring La Ciotat, head to the neighboring town of Cassis, only 30 minutes away.

With its bustling port area, fantastic seafood restaurants and lovely old architecture, Cassis is a quintessentially charming French seaside town. Right next to the port lies the sandy Plage de la Grande Mer beach perfect for a quick dip. There’s also a medieval chateau perched on a cliff overlooking the port of Cassis.

Because of its beauty, Cassis attracts a lot of visitors in the summer months, so don’t expect to find peace and tranquility here (at least not in the center of the town).

Spend the night in Cassis.

MID-RANGE: Hotel Les Volets Rouges This is an eco-friendly boutique hotel in a quiet location surrounded by a pine forest. Their rooms are bright and tastefully decorated, and almost all have a private terrace.

LUXURY: Hôtel Les Roches Blanches If you’re looking for some luxury and world-class service, the 5-star Hôtel Les Roches Blanches is likely the best choice in Cassis. This stunning waterfront property features two infinity pools and views of the Mediterranean sea.

Day 5: Calanques National Park, return to Avignon

On the final day of your 5-day South of France itinerary, get up early to visit the spectacular Calanques National Park . 

Extending along the coast between Cassis and Marseille, this national park is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking sights in Provence. Here, towering limestone cliffs rise vertically from the neon blue waters of the Mediterranean and form narrow sheltered inlets known as ‘Calanques’. 

To access the most beautiful Calanques and swim in their irresistible turquoise waters, you’ll either need to hike, mountain bike or approach them from the sea. We hiked from Port-Miou to Calanque d’En Vau and back, which took us about 4.5 hours, including breaks for taking photos and relaxing on the beaches.

If you’d like to visit the Calanques on a tour, here are some fun options: 

• A stand-up paddle-boarding tour from Cassis
• A relaxing cruise aboard a sailing yacht with lunch departing from Marseille 
• An electric mountain bike tour from Marseille
• A guided sea kayaking tour from Cassis

P.S. I’ve seen many travel blogs state that it’s not possible to visit the Calanques by land or that it’s closed for hiking in the summer. This is simply not true. You can definitely access the park by land, just be aware that during the summer, on some days the trails might be closed due to the risk of wildfires (you can find daily updates in the ‘Mes Calanques’ app). And if that’s the case, then taking a kayak, SUP or a boat tour is an excellent alternative.

Once you’re done marveling at the Calanques, it’s time to round off your Provence road trip and return your rental car to Avignon. The drive from Cassis/Marseille to Avignon should take you around 1.5 hours.

5-day Provence road trip map

On this map, you can see the locations of all the stops in this Provence travel itinerary, as well as the driving routes. Click on the icon in the top left corner of the map for more details.

Other places to include in your South of France road trip

Provence is full of exciting places to explore and it’s impossible to visit all of them in 5 days. If you’re lucky enough to have more than 5 days in Provence, or you’re just looking to add other stops to your itinerary, here are some places and activities to consider:

• Visit wineries and taste the beloved Provence rosé. Some of the most famous vineyards/wineries you can visit (and spend a night at) are Château De Berne , Château De Saint Martin and Domaine de Fontenille . 
• Explore more of the glamorous beach resorts of the French Riviera, such as Cannes, Nice, Monaco and Menton.
• If you’re interested in seeing some of the larger towns in the region, visit Marseille, Avignon, Aix-en-Provence or Nice.

5-day South of France itinerary: Final thoughts

From fairytale villages and natural wonders to a mesmerizing coastline, this beautiful region in Southern France has so much to offer. 

I hope this post gave you some inspiration for planning your own Provence road trip and convinced you to add some new places to your France bucket list! 

Be sure to check out my other France travel guides as well:

• Best things to do in Chamonix, the French Alps
• 11 beautiful lakes to visit in France
• Route des Cretes, a scenic mountain road in Provence
• Lac Blanc hike: One of the best walks in the French Alps
• Grand Balcon Nord hike: An alpine walk in Chamonix

Enjoyed reading about this Provence road trip? Pin it!

The perfect Mallorca itinerary: An unforgettable week in Mallorca

Best things to do in Chamonix in the summer

Lac Blanc hike: One of the most beautiful walks in Chamonix, France

Best lakes in France: 11 enchanting lake destinations to visit

Driving the scenic Route des Cretes of Verdon Gorge in France

This is a lovely (and timely!) post. My husband and I are planning our May 2023 trip to France, and appreciate how thorough you were about the sights to explore in Provence.

We have just barely 5 days to travel through southern France, so I’m leaning towards prioritizing Cassis over St. Tropez. Do you have a strong recommendation? We are equally interested in hiking and exploring a coastal town but recognize we likely don’t have time to give both Day 4 and Day 5 sights justice. Any insight is much appreciate!

Hi Esther. Glad to hear you found the post helpful! If I had to choose between Cassis and St. Tropez, I would definitely choose Cassis. I think the town itself is more charming and I also really loved the Calanque d’En Vau hike which starts in Cassis.

This is amazing and hits all my top bucket lists for the trip. Wondering if I can start in Cassis and loop around to finish in St. Tropez since I have a flight out of Nice. I’m going to be there on 20-25 July so will it be too late to see the lavender fields.. is there anywhere else I can see them. Definitely want to do one hike and one water activity

That’s awesome Kinnari! You can definitely start in Cassis and finish in St. Tropez. Regarding the lavender, I’m afraid it’s too late, I’m not aware of any place where you could see them at that time.

My husband and I were thinking of hitting up this road trip this summer during the first week of July! And we’d love to campervan it! How did you find places to park and stay for the night?

Hi Josephine. That’s a great plan, we absolutely loved doing it by campervan! We use the Park4Night app to find parking spots.

Hey! Thanks so much for this detailed itinerary. What’s the total driving time for it?

You’re welcome! Sorry I don’t remember how many hours it took to drive. But it’s easily doable in 5 days.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

One Week in Provence – A 7-Day Itinerary By Train & Bus

Are you thinking about spending one week in Provence?  In my opinion, seven days is the perfect amount of time to be introduced to this region in the South of France.

Of course you can’t see everything in Provence in just one week, but after spending almost two months in the region I’ve developed a one-week Provence itinerary that will allow you to see a little bit of everything that the region has to offer, from perfume workshops to turquoise beaches to medieval palaces and more.  I would describe this itinerary as full, but not rushed.  There’s enough to do to keep you busy each day, but you’ll always have time to pause to enjoy the view (with an optional glass of local rosé wine!).

My recommended itinerary for one week in Provence is a multi-city itinerary, also known as an open-jaw, itinerary.  This means that you’ll start in one city and end in another.  Both Nice (your starting point) and Marseille (your ending point) have busy international airports, so you should be able to find flights that accommodate this route.  However, high speed trains connect the two cities in about two and a half hours, so it’s easy to double back to your starting point if necessary.

As with almost all my travel guides, no car is required for this itinerary.  You can follow my one-week Provence itinerary by using the efficient intercity bus and train network, and by exploring each of the towns and cities on foot.  All of the hotels that I recommend are within walking distance of the main attractions, and can be reached easily either by walking or using the tram or metro when you arrive in each destination.  I spent  two months in France without getting in a car even once, so trust me on this one!

Day 1 – Get to Know Nice

With France’s second-busiest airport, Nice is the main arrival point for most travelers flying into the south of France.  You’ll want to start your Provence itinerary here, in this coastal city with its own unique culture and history.

In the morning, start by visiting one of the cafes that line Cours Saleya for a quick coffee and pastry before browsing the market stalls that are set up each morning (except Mondays).  Before it gets too hot, follow the waterfront towards the hill (Colline de Chateau) and walk up to the panoramic viewpoint, where you’ll get the best views of the city and the beach.

Spend the rest of the morning strolling through the Old Town ( Vieux Nice) , stopping at the cathedral, the Chapelle de la Misericorde and Palais Lascaris.  Make sure to stop at one of the street food vendors selling socca , a chickpea flatbread that is a specialty of the region.

There are a few different options for your afternoon in Nice.  If you’re a sun worshipper, you could rent a beach chair or just lay your towel down on the sandy beach to catch some rays.  If you want to swim, the east end of the beach (Plage Castel) is relatively calm and has showers where you can rinse off afterwards.

If you don’t want to spend the afternoon at the beach, you could stroll along the waterfront Promenade des Anglais to the famous Hotel Negresco. If contemporary art is more your thing, Nice’s Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is just a few blocks away from the Old Town, and there are also museums dedicated to both Chagall and Matisse on the outskirts of the historic center.

Try to get to bed at a relatively decent hour tonight, though, as you’ll need an early start tomorrow in order to visit not just another city, but another country entirely!

🏨 Stay Here:

The two hotels I’m recommending have a central location, within easy walking distance of the Old Town, the tram network  and the bus stop to Monaco.

• Hotel Rossetti – An intimate, affordable hotel in a historic building.  Rooms are spacious and modernized, and service is spot-on.
• Palais Saleya Boutique Hotel – For a more luxurious stay, this boutique hotel in Nice’s Old Town has suites and apartments with modern, well-equipped rooms.

🍽️ Eat Here:

• Rue Bonaparte – This is a street, not a restaurant. However, it’s off the tourist radar enough that it mainly attracts locals and in-the-know French tourists.  Check out Clay for healthy brunch fare, and Magnolia Cafe for inspired tapas.
• Lou Pilha Leva – Nice has its own distinct history and culinary traditions. This busy restaurant in Vieux Nice celebrates Niçoise cuisine with socca, pissaladiere (anchovy flatbread) and pan bagnat (basically, salade niçoise on a sandwich).

Day 2 – A Can’t-Miss Day Trip to Monaco and Eze

On Day Two of your one-week Provence itinerary you’re going to get some of the best views of Provence… and then promptly leave France entirely!

Your first stop today is going to be Èze, a hilltop medieval town that is about thirty minutes outside Nice by bus. At press time both Bus #82 and Bus #112 go from Nice to Èze Village.  Do not take a bus or train that goes to Èze-sur-Mer, as that will leave you at the lower beach when you want to be waaaay up the hill in the village.  I recommend catching a 9:00 am bus, which should have you in the village by 9:30.

Two hours will give you enough time to explore the medieval village in Èze (shown in the photo at the top of this article) and ascend to the highest viewing point in the Exotic Garden.  If you finish your visit early, there are two perfume factories near the bus stop where you can shop for locally-produced French perfumes.

Read more about exploring Èze here.

After spending two hours in Èze you should be able to catch either Bus #602 or Bus #112 further down the coast to Monte Carlo, Monaco. Bus routes and schedules vary with the season, so ask about onward schedules at the Tourist Information office in  Èze when you first arrive.

Although you’re leaving France and entering an independent principality, you won’t need to stop for any customs or immigration when you cross the border into Monaco!

With half a day in Monaco, you might want to choose between exploring the area around the Casino (Monte Carlo) or going up “The Rock” to Monaco City (Monacoville).  The area around the casino is much more expensive, but it’s the best place to be to see the supercars and, of course, to try your luck in the casino.  The upper part of the principality is more similar to  Vieux Nice , and it’s where you’ll find the Prince’s Palace, Saint Nicholas Cathedral and the Oceanographic Museum.

The easiest way to return to your hotel in Nice is by train, with the last departure usually leaving the station around 9:00 pm (but check the schedule online as it changes seasonally).

Looking for more France travel tips?

Follow Fearless Female Travels on Facebook for actually-useful tips on traveling in France, solo female travel, and more!  (No annoying emails – I promise!)

Day 3 – Say “Au Revoir” to Nice & Travel to Avignon

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Nice before traveling to Avignon around noon (pick up a sandwich, a pastry and a drink from a bakery so you can enjoy lunch on the train, like the locals do).

The trip should take about four and a half hours, and will likely require a change of trains.  Your destination is Avignon Centre, the main train station in the heart of Avignon.  You might need to change trains in Marseille, or you might find a route that takes you directly to Avignon TGV (the high-speed rail station outside Avignon), where slower regional trains depart every thirty minutes from the Avignon Centre station.

Drop off your bags at your accommodation and begin exploring Avignon before the sun goes down. This is the perfect time to walk through the historic center to Le Pont d’Avignon , which looks even prettier at sunset (see the photo below).  You can also take the free ferry from the bridge over to L’Ile de la Barthelasse and walk through the park to the bridge that will return you to the mainland.

If you’re in Avignon for a short visit, I recommend staying somewhere within the historic city walls, towards the south end of the city.  This puts you within easy walking distance of both the bus and train stations, so you won’t need to take any taxis during your stay.

• Hotel Bouquier – My top recommendation for an affordable hotel in Avignon is in the perfect location for exploring the city on foot. I love the charming, eclectic decor and the delicious breakfasts.
• Les Jardins de Baracane – This four-star hotel has a crystalline outdoor pool in the courtyard of a 17th-century townhouse. Room here are spacious, sunny and decorated in a beautiful Provençal style.
• Restaurant L’Épicerie Avignon – I had one of my Top 5 meals in France at this restaurant in the plaza in front of the Saint-Pierre Basilica.  I highly recommend the vegetarian plate, but I’m sure that their other dishes are amazing too.
• Le Goût de Jour – Word on the street is that it won’t be long before this restaurant earns its first Michelin star, so visit now while you can still experience haute cuisine at reasonable prices. Every day they have a lunch menu, a dinner menu, and a vegetarian menu. Reservations (including deposit) are essential – you can book on their website .

Day 4 – Explore Avignon

I’ve got a complete guide to the best things to do in Avignon , so have a look at the list to see what piques your interest.  The good thing is that all of Avignon’s attractions are very close to one another, and within easy walking distance of the hotels I recommended, but the bad news is that just with one day you won’t be able to fit everything in.

It makes sense to start your day at the Palace of Popes, whether you choose to buy a ticket and go inside or just check it out from the outside.  If you’re here early in the day, you can probably pop into the free Musee du Petit Palais, at the back of the courtyard in front of the Pope’s Palace, to see Botticelli’s Virgin and Child (and hundreds of other Renaissance paintings).

Personally, I would then wander through the historic center towards Les Halles d’Avignon, the city’s greenery-covered indoor food market, and pick up some items for a picnic lunch.  Walk with your purchases towards Rue des Teinturiers, where you can sit on a shady bench beside the ancient canals and waterwheels to enjoy your meal.

If you’re a contemporary art fan now is a great time to continue on to Collection Lambert, an expansive museum housed in an opulent hotel particulier , whereas history lovers will want to visit some more of the city’s free regional museums (a full list is in the linked article above).

End your day with dinner at one of the recommended restaurants (see above) and a stroll around the city center with a cup of ice cream.

🪻 If you’ll be in the area in August, I highly recommend spending a day at the Sault Lavender Festival . This could replace one of the day trips from Day 5 or Day 6. 🪻

Day 5 – Spend the Day in Nearby Arles

Avignon is only seventeen minutes by train from Arles, making it an ideal day trip from Avignon.  From the train station it’s a ten-minute walk to the ancient Roman arena and the historical city center.

Skip the breakfast at Le Cafe Van Gogh (yes, it inspired his famous painting, but no, the food won’t inspire your palate… especially at those prices) and consider nearby Lapostrope or Cafe Factory Republique instead.

Once you’ve had your coffee and a pastry (or two) you can explore the historic center of Arles, including the St. Trophieme church and cloister, the Theatre Antique and the Cryptoportiques.  Read more about these Arles attractions (and how to save money visiting them with an Arles City Pass) in my guide to the best things to do in Arles .

For a light lunch, I recommend Creperie Chez Mam Goz, just a block from the Roman arena.

If you’ve never been to a Roman arena before, head to Arles’ arena after lunch.  Take your time circling, climbing and exploring this monumental arena, which dates back almost two thousand years and once held almost 20,000 spectators.

However, if you’ve visited a Roman arena before (maybe in Rome, or even in nearby Nimes), you might want to spend your afternoon exploring LUMA Arles, a new contemporary art complex just a few blocks outside the historic center. The focal point here is the tower designed by Frank Gehry (free to visit at press time), as well as the collection of contemporary art exhibits spread across various buildings on the site.

You can stay in Arles for dinner (I recommend dining at La Caravelle, and then walking back to the train station along the riverfront that inspired Van Gogh) or head back to Avignon in the early evening.

Day 6 – Enjoy a Day Trip to Saint-Remy-de-Provence

Another day, another day trip!  Avignon really is the perfect location for day tripping around Provence (I actually have a guide to ten of the best day trips from Avignon – of course Arles and Saint-Remy-de-Provence are included!).  You won’t want to miss a day trip to Saint-Remy-de-Provence, a quaint Provencal town with more history than can fit inside its fortified walls.

On Wednesday mornings, the town hosts their weekly market in the historic center.  It’s similar to the market you saw in Nice on Cours Saleya, but with a bit more small-town charm. If you can time your visit for a Wednesday that’s great, but don’t worry if you miss the market – there’s lots more to see here!

The bus journey from Avignon to Saint-Remy-de-Provence takes about one hour.  You’ll arrive in the historic city center, where narrow cobblestone streets are lined with art galleries, independent shops, cafes and creperies.  The historic center also houses a number of museums, with the most famous being the Musée Estrine. Located inside a former private mansion, this museum features a Vincent Van Gogh interpretive center and various temporary exhibits.

After enjoying the city center (including lunch on the terrace of one of the many restaurants you’ll find in Saint-Remy), it’s an easy two-kilometer walk south of the city center (past the Tourist Information Office) to two of the town’s most important attractions : Glanum, a well-preserved Ancient Roman town, and the Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole, where Vincent Van Gogh spent a year in the psychiatric hospital watching the seasons pass him by (and painting them).

Once you’ve explored the attractions south of the center, you can either catch a bus back to Avignon from the Glanum bus stop (they’re infrequent, so check the schedule at Tourist Information on your way there) or walk back to town and catch a return bus from there.

Day 7 – See the Highlights of Marseille

Your week in Provence will end in Marseille, France’s second-largest city and a cosmopolitan hub for European, Asian and North African cultures. I have a complete guide to visiting Marseille in one or two days , so click through to see my complete recommendations for the city.

As I mention in that post, with one day in Marseille you’ll want to focus your sightseeing on the area around the Old Port ( Vieux Port ), which is shown above.  Drop off your bags at one of the hotels I mention below, and then set out on foot to explore the waterfront!

The attractions in this area include the new Cosquer Méditerranée , a museum built around a 30-minute underwater ride that takes you through a full-sized reproduction of the Cosquer Cave and its paleolithic cave art.  As well, the Marseille Cathedral, with its striped stone facade, is just minutes away.

Your last stop should be the historic Le Panier district (which was recently featured in Netflix’s Transatlantic series – definitely worth watching before you visit!). It’s a bit of an uphill walk, but you’ll be rewarded with some of Marseille’s best street art, independent shops and innovative restaurants. Don’t leave without buying some locally-made Marseille soap at Bazaar Caesar Soap or at 72% Pétanque (olive oil and lavender are the most popular scents, and both make perfect souvenirs!).

With only one full day in Marseille, you’ll want to stay in a central hotel that has easy transportation connections to the train station (where you can catch the bus to the airport or a train to and from the rest of France) and that is within easy walking distance of all of the city’s must-see attractions.  These two highly-rated hotels will be perfect:

• La Residence de Vieux Port – A popular waterfront hotel located right on the Old Port. The rooms here are as cool as the street art in nearby Le Panier, and it’s worth splurging on a room with a balcony that overlooks the harbour.
• NH Collection Marseille – I stayed in Le Panier, but I get that not everybody wants to hike uphill to their hotel every evening!  NH hotels are always great, and this bright and breezy property has an ideal location just behind Le Panier. You can walk uphill to explore the district or circumvent it entirely on a ten-minute flat walk to the Vieux Port. You’ve also got easy tram and metro access here.
• Matza – There are a lot of great restaurants on Cours Julien and Place de Notre Dame de Mont, but the meal I ate here was definitely a standout. They have a rotating menu of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, made with elevated flavors and techniques but served in a casual environment.
• Café l’Écomotive – A vegetarian and vegan cafe beside Marseille-Saint-Charles train station. They have great lunch specials that change with the seasons. (If you eat on the sidewalk terrace, note that the stairs across from you were featured in the classic music video for Bingo Player’s “Cry (Just a Little) ” – watching it will make you want to dramatically quit your job and move to the South of France!).

Do you have questions about traveling in the South of France?  Leave your questions about Provence (and beyond!) below and I’ll answer them ASAP.

In the meantime, check out my France archives for all my posts about the region (and a few spots further north too).

Planning a trip?  Pin this post for later!

Exactly what to pack for a high school trip to europe, where to stay in istanbul – the best districts & hotels, you may also like, the best things to do in cascais (a..., is madrid worth visiting an honest traveler’s perspective, one day in barcelona, spain – an easy-to-follow..., what is the best time to visit the..., barcelona to paris train – tips for traveling..., visiting the alcazar of segovia – 10 things..., how to use the calgary transit app, the best places to visit in mumbai in..., a 7-day kerala itinerary (solo female traveler approved), how to visit the bharatpur bird sanctuary in....

Groovy Mashed Potatoes - Travel Blog

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:

Featured Posts

26 best restaurants on salt spring island, british columbia.

Salt Spring Island is known for its sustainable farming and locally grown food. Fresh and organic ingredients combined with the island's creative flair make for some delicious spots. We list the 26 best restaurants on Salt Spring Island, each for a unique reason.

33 Unique Things to Do in Mexico City

After multiple visits, we've created a list of unique things to do in Mexico City that distinguish it from other megacities in the world. We include the best street foods, standout experiences, free activities, local hot spots, striking places and unusual things you won't find in typical guides.

5 Days in Mexico City for Food, Culture & Architecture

If you're a food, architecture and design enthusiast and love to immerse yourself in the local culture, this 5 Day Mexico Itinerary is for you. From mouthwatering street foods to striking architectural sights, your 5 days in Mexico City will be filled with unique experiences.

Search Groovy Mashed Potatoes - Travel Blog

Ultimate Travel Guide for your Trip to Provence

Whether you have heard of Provence through movies or Rosé , it is a heavenly destination where crystal water, lavender fields, olive tree fields, hilly vineyards, picturesque villages and hot sunny days treat you well.

Table of Contents

Plan your own trip to Provence with the help of this ultimate travel guide!

A trip to Provence France: things to know before you go

The Provence region of France is located south-east of the country, not very far from the Italian border.

How to get to Provence & Provence villages

Many large cities and Provence villages such as Marseille or Nice are apart of Provence, so region is rather well accessible whether by plane, train or car.

• By plane : Marseille being the capital city of Provence, it has the largest international airport in the area, if you plan on landing in Provence – Marseille Provence Airport. From there, you will have no trouble finding shuttles and buses to take you where you need to go, whether the city-center or the train station to leave Marseille.
• By train : thanks to France’s well-developed high-speed train network (TGV), Provence is also accessible by train from large French cities. From Paris, expect a 2h45 hour trip to Avignon, and a little over 3 hours to reach Aix-en-Provence.

When is the best time to visit Provence?

To experience Provence to its fullest, it’s essential that you come when the lavender and sunflowers are in full bloom. The ideal months for visiting are June through August – so make sure to plan ahead! This way, you can be certain of seeing these stunning fields at their very best.

If you appreciate hot and sunny weather, July is your best choice for visiting Provence. Mid-July sees peak bloom in the region, but anytime during summer will be an ideal time to take a trip here. Nevertheless, bear in mind that this period marks a high tourist season; cities and villages can get packed quickly — especially places like the French Riviera that are popular destinations among both foreigners and locals alike.

How to get around Provence

When you come to Provence, you can choose one of three options: take the train and public transportation; drive your own car; or settle in a single city and explore it primarily on foot. Depending on where exactly you stay, this approach could be especially rewarding!

You may be interested in renting a car to travel around and plan a nice road trip to Provence . We strongly suggest this option! Touring Provence by car is not only easy and fun, but also allows you to explore each village with no strings attached.

Plus, when on the ground there’ll be plenty of opportunities for spontaneous changes in your itinerary, because who can resist those beautiful lavender fields and charming villages? We guarantee that you will leave feeling head-over-heels in love with Provence’s wonders.

How long should a Provence trip last?

To make the most of your stay in Provence, France, we recommend staying a couple of weeks. Seriously, from incredible landscapes of vineyards, flower fields and olive trees, to most charming cities and villages such as Gordes, and glamorous spots on the French Riviera, you will surely regret rushing your stay in south-east of France.

Where to stay in Provence: main Provence cities

Provence, France, is a rather large region that stretches on the South-Est part of the country – both on the coast and more in land. Choosing where to settle for a trip to Provence might come as a difficult decision, especially is you have never been in the surroundings before. Large cities offer you most interesting choices in terms of accessibility, activities, restaurants and accommodations – so that’s why we focus on presenting them as places to settle, but settling in Provence villages can be all the more enjoyable! From East to West, here is all you need to know on the main Provence cities .

Stay in Provence village of Nice

Right on the East side of Provence, on the Coast and close to the Italian border, beautiful city of Nice, France, awaits you for some glamorous days on the French Riviera.

Why stay in Nice: Nice to Provence day trips

If you are planning a kind of a road trip in Provence, Nice is a very interesting location to consider, as it is the starting point of the French Riviera tour, and could also be the beginning of your nice to Provence day trip itinerary. Nice’s international airport welcomes you (Nice Côte d’Azur Airport) without difficulties from international destinations

From its gorgeous landscapes to the charming French culture, Nice is a must-see destination for anyone seeking an upscale atmosphere.

You’ll have plenty of activities to choose from in this city—you can take a stroll down Promenade des Anglais, admire Vieille Ville’s colorful streets and explore Parc de la Colline du Château. Plus, Cours saleya Market has culinary delights that one simply cannot miss!

Where to stay in Nice

In Nice, you have it all: top luxury hotels, more affordable apartments, city-center lodgings or quieter and more “Provençale” areas, find your perfect accommodation .

If you’d like to visit more town on the coast, read more about where to go on the French Riviera !

Stay in Provence village of Marseille

Marseille is one France’s largest city, right after Paris and before Lyon . It’s not only the capital city of Provence region, but also considered as the capital city of South of France, and one of the oldest towns of the country. This being said, you can imagine how dynamic and diverse this French Metropolis can be!

Why stay in Marseille

Planning a trip to Provence? Marseille is the perfect city to call home base – you can easily fly in from overseas destinations or arrive via train from another French town. Furthermore, it’s less than an hour away by public transport from Aix en Provence where you can explore for a day and then return for a cozy evening back at your hotel!

Venture to the glorious west coast of Provence and bask in its classic French Mediterranean ambiance. From recognisable Old Port, tantalising seafood delights such as Bouillabaisse, or a journey throughout the captivating Calanque National Park – you will be left mesmerised by this breathtaking region’s many wonders!

Where to stay in Marseille

The 2 nd largest city of France offers an extensive choice of accommodations, both in the suburbs and in the city-center. From VIP hotels to simple and affordable apartments, to find your perfect housing .

Stay in Provence village of Aix en Provence

North of Marseille, the in-land city of Aix en Provence is on the most well-known cities of Provence . Once the capital city of France’s southwest region, it is the heart and soul of the Provençale way of life.

Staying in Aix en Provence

Since visiting Aix en Provence is a must during your stay in French lavender and Rosé region, you won’t regret settling there for a couple of weeks. You will experience both a laid-back Provençale kind of rhythm with daily markets, and the liveliness of a large city, where locals enjoy cultural events and festivals during the summer. And oh, you don’t want to miss typical Provence tapenade tastings – delicious olive purée – at local producers’ shops. From the Old Town of Aix, the Church of the Madeleine, Cezanne’s studio, the Caumont hotel, the Saint-Victoire Mountain and many more sights, you won’t be bored.

Where to stay in Aix en Provence

Find all accommodations in Aix en Provence . From views of lavender fields to city-center stoned houses, you will surely book your one of your best housings ever.

Find out more on what to do in Aix en Provence !

Stay in Provence village of Avignon

The most west-located city of Provence , at the border of the Languedoc-Roussillon wine region, Avignon is also a city to consider visiting and settling at during your Provence trip.

Why stay in Avignon

A testimony of rich history, the former City of Popes has charmed more than one with its narrowed streets and Medieval setting. Being in Avignon is a little bit like being in a small typical Provence village, but on the large-city scale. The town was actually named a UNSECO world heritage site, so this international recognition speaks for itself.

Where to stay in Avignon

Find all accommodations in Avignon , and check out more on what to do in Avignon !

Top 3 things to do on your trip to Provence

1. visit beautiful provence villages.

Officially recognized as being one of the most beautiful villages of France, your visit in Gordes will be one of the highlights of your Provence trip. Located not far from Avignon, the village of Gordes to Provence is like the Eiffel Tower to Paris – so it’s well worth planning a full day wondering in this beautiful hilltop village!

On the menu: narrowed streets, breathtaking view on the Luberon region, a 10 th century Châteaux to visit, the Pol Mara Museum to discover and much more to explore. Add this village on your Provence road trip itinerary !

Baux-de-Provence

Between Arles and Avignon, les Baux-de-Provence is part of the prestigious list of most beautiful villages of France. Beware: even if it’s small village, it does hold incredible historical heritage and Provence patrimony! Perched in the Alpilles mountains, Baux-de-Provence offers breathtaking panoramas on the Provence landscapes.

After a breath of fresh air, you’ll be amazed to visit the Castles and Fortress of Baux, Bauxite quarries and hike on the Val d’Enfer trail. Discover more on what to in Baux-de-Provence !

2. Get lost in Provence Lavender Fields

Who goes to this part of France without looking for Provence lavender fields? Not you! If you have the opportunity to drive around and explore Provence from countryside roads, you will surely come across lavender and even sunflower fields.

In case you don’t feel like driving too much to find the perfect Provence lavender spot, you can find some in land:

• A little further than Avignon, about an hour and forty-minute drive from the city,
• At the Abbey de Senanque
• At the Plateau de Valensole
• Luberon villages like Gordes

3. Discover Provence vineyards and wineries

One of the best things to do in Provence is, without a doubt, the visit of local wineries and the discovery of Provence vineyards . Surely, you have already tasted an amazing Provence Rosé on a hot summer day. Well, you will enjoy it so much more in Provence region of France!

On Winalist, you can find an extensive choice of wine estates, from Wine Châteaux like Villa Baulieu , to family domains, that offer great wine experiences and tourism activities such as top Wine Tours, oenological workshops and wine tastings.

Take a look at the Top 10 wineries to visit in Provence!

Enjoy your upcoming incredible trip to Provence!

Visit Provence France FAQs

What is provence best known for.

Provence is a southern region of France and one of the countries main wine region, best know for its delicate Rosé . It’s also a favorite tourist destination for French people and travelers around the world, who want to experience lavender fields and hot weather.

Why visit Provence?

The region of Provence, France, is a top destination for French people. Synonym of slow relaxing rhythm, picturesque hilly villages and lavender fields, Provence is definitely worth visiting.

Where to stay in Provence without a car?

The best way to make the most of your stay in south-east of France without renting a car, is to settle in main cities of Provence. Aix-en-Provence offers a good compromise, because it is very well linked with other large cities like Marseille, Avignon and Nice, and immerses you right in the heart of Provence.

nº1 website in Europe for wine & spirits experiences.

1,200+ wine & spirit producers  from all over the world.

No booking fee.
 Free cancellation.

Other posts you might like...

Best Places to Visit in Provence, France

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

Visit Provence, France

Provence is part of the French region Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur in the southeast of the country. It’s a beautiful area with amazing scenery, a history that goes back to Roman times, and adorable little villages. Whether you enjoy great food, sipping wine in sumptuous surroundings, or relaxing on the beach, you need to visit Provence!

Where to go in Provence? To help you get the most from your trip to this part of France, here are the best places to visit in Provence, France, for every kind of traveler. Some of these best places in Provence are high on our list of the best things to do in France !

ROAD TRIP ITINERARIES THAT COVER PROVENCE

• Road Trip Route du Mimosa
• The Ultimate South of France Road Trip Itinerary (2 weeks)
• The Ultimate Provence Lavender Route
• Road Trip Gorges du Verdon
• Luberon Road Trip

Most Beautiful Places in Provence, France

Where to visit in Provence for a weekend getaway or a longer trip? Here’s the best of Provence, with something for everyone.

Marseille is the capital of Provence and the second largest after Paris. It’s a Mediterranean city with a busy harbor and the ideal place to experience authentic France. Well connected to Paris with fast trains, a weekend in Marseille is super easy to organize from the French capital.

Marseille’s historic district of Le Panier is a must-see in Provence with its narrow streets, café terraces, and street-art-colored facades. You should also make sure to see the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde , with its views of the bay from the terrace, and the Musée des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Méditerranée (MuCEM) to learn more about the history of Mediterranean peoples.

TIP: The Marseille City Pass saves you time and money with free entry to Marseille’s top attractions and unlimited travel on public transport.

The Hilltop Villages of the Luberon

The Luberon region is another of Provence’s best places to visit. Located 70 km north of Marseille, it includes parts of the Vaucluse and the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence departments. This is an area of extreme landscapes, as well as small hill towns that guard sleepy valleys and vineyards.

The hilltop villages in Luberon are popular tourist attractions, and most of them are listed as Most Beautiful Villages in France. From Bonnieux to Gordes and Roussillon, each of them has its own distinct character and features, and they are easy to visit on a day trip from Avignon (though we recommend exploring the area by car on a Luberon road trip ).

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is one of the top Provence cities to visit. Aix is the quintessential Provencal city, with a unique blend of history, balmy weather, and elegance. The tree-lined boulevards, Roman monuments, and ornate fountains of this city are a Provence must-see, and the city has a wonderful warmth that’s characteristic of Southern France.

There are numerous tourist attractions in Aix-en-Provence, and also welcoming cafés and a lively atmosphere. While you’re there, make sure you check out Les Deux Garçons , once a favorite hangout of Picasso and Edith Piaf, the architectural marvel that is Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur , Cézanne’s workshop , and Musée Granet , where you can see fine arts created by the greatest masters in history.

TIP: Explore the famous markets of Aix-en-Provence with this Aix-en-Provence Market Tour

Calanques of Marseille-Cassis

The Calanques of Marseille-Cassis is of the best places to go in Provence, France, for nature lovers. It’s a series of limestone cliffs and bays located between the fishing town of Cassis and the city of Marseille. Not all Calanques are easily accessible on foot, but there are plenty of inlets and bays that you explore with a catamaran tour or on a guided tour by kayak .

This is the perfect place for some outdoor adventures in the south of France. The scenery is simply spectacular, and you can do everything from kayaking to swimming, hiking, or sunbathing.

Lavender Fields of Provence

The lavender fields of Provence are one of the best places to visit in Provence, France. Located in the Luberon and near the towns of Valensole and Sault , the fields are seemingly endless seas of deep purple, complete with that heavenly smell under the balmy sun of the south of France.

The lavender season in Provence is different depending on where you go, so make sure you arrive before harvest time for the best views.

The Camargue

The Camargue Regional Natural Park is another of the most beautiful places in Provence. This natural area is located south of the city of Arles is the largest wetland in France, covering a surface of ​​100,000 hectares. The Camargue is famous worldwide for its stunning landscapes, lakes, and exceptional fauna.

The Camargue is designated as a Wetland of International Importance and Western Europe’s largest river delta. It’s a haven for wildlife and is home to more than 400 species of birds, countless insects, and larger wildlife, from Camargue horses to cattle. It is also an excellent place for a relaxing getaway in Southern France – Click here for the top-rated hotels in the Camargue .

The Colorado Provencal

If you are looking for unique places to see in Provence, then visit Rustrel for a total change of scenery. Rustrel is part of the region around Roussillon, famed for its dramatic, richly colored ochre landscapes.  

Here, you can walk in the Colorado Provençal , a beautiful hike through cliffs and multicolored ocher rocks shaped for centuries by erosion and the work of men. There are two walking trails available (1-2 hours), and they both combine the pleasure of hiking and discovering an industrial heritage. 

Hyères Islands

The Hyères Islands are one of the most beautiful places in Provence, France, for a relaxing vacation. They are a group of French islands off the town of Hyères in the Var department of Southeastern France. The Hyères Islands are often called the Iles d’Or or the Golden Islands and consist of three main islands and one smaller one. The smallest island, Île du Bagaud , doesn’t allow visitors.

The island of Porquerolles is the most popular of the four, with beautiful turquoise water, sandy beaches, a sleepy little village, and several wineries. Port-Cros , one of the other islands, is mountainous and home to a bird refuge and rare flora. And if you have the time, then you can explore Île du Levant , with its naturist community and privately owned village.

Avignon is on the left bank of the Rhône River. One of the most beautiful walled cities in France , Avignon was the seat of the Catholic Popes from 1309 to 1377.

Avignon is most famous for its medieval town and the Palais des Papes , Europe’s largest Gothic Palace and one of the most interesting places to visit in Provence. The Palais des Papes is a UNESCO-listed palace that was built in the 14th century when the papal court moved from Rome to Avignon.

The town of Avignon is filled with museums like the Musée du Petit Palais , with displays of artwork by Sandro Botticelli and Vittore Carpaccio. It also has beautiful churches and the famous Saint-Bénézet Bridge (Pont d’Avignon) , which partially spans the river.

TIP: This top-rated Avignon Walking Tour is an excellent introduction to the city.

Gorges du Verdon

Gorges du Verdon is the best place to visit in Provence for a relaxing day trip out of Aix-en-Provence or Nice. Located in the beautiful Verdon Regional Park , Gorges du Verdon is one of the largest canyons in Europe and reaches a depth of more than 700 meters.

The water in the gorge is a stunning bright turquoise color, and you can see the gorge from your car or take a boat /kayak and stop for dips in the water as you go. This natural landscape is also famous for its hiking and climbing routes, so it’s ideal for an active vacation.

The best way to explore this area is by car (check out this Gorges du Verdon road trip itinerary ). If you don’t have a car, you can join a Gorges du Verdon guided tour from Nice , and there are also guided tours from Aix-en-Provence .

Roman Provence

Provence is a region whose culture and charm has been influenced by thousands of years of history. Provence sounds like “province”. That’s because it was the first Roman province outside of what is now Italy, and the Romans called it “Provencia Romana.”

Under the Roman administration, the region’s economic and artistic life flourished. The towns of Orange, Arles, Nimes, Orange, Vaison la Romaine , and Fréjus are the best places in Provence, France, to see Roman vestiges in the region, like magnificent remains of arenas, amphitheaters, spas, and villas.

Also, don’t miss a visit (or a kayak tour!) to the Roman Aqueduct of Gard and the visit to Glanum , the most complete ancient archeological complex in France located outside Saint-Rémy.

TIP: This Roman Provence history tour from Avignon is ideal for history lovers.

Back to Homepage

Disclaimer: This article may contain compensated links, meaning we get a small commission if you make a purchase through our links. It costs you nothing more (in fact, if anything, you’ll get a nice discount) but helps us to go on creating incredible French content for you. We trust all products and brands promoted here and would never recommend anything that isn’t of value. Please read disclaimer for more info.

(C) Copyright 2019 - 2024 France Bucket List. All Rights Reserved. Designed & Developed by France Bucket List || Disclaimer || Privacy Policy || Contact |

• Browse All UnTours
• Travel Styles
• Bavarian Castle
• County Kerry
• Amalfi Coast
• Central Scotland
• Scottish Highlands
• Swiss Heartland
• Swiss Oberland
• Browse Cruises & Adventures
• River Cruises
• Sea Cruises
• Barge & Canal Cruises
• Global Adventures
• Virtual Events
• Wine & Food UnTours
• Shop Euro Baskets
• Free Catalog
• eNewsletter
• Email Deals Alerts

Trip Report: Provence Untour Reviews & Guest Tips

Provence is a special place, and the  Provence Untour has remained one of our most popular Untours since its inception in the early 1990s. If you love good food and wine, warm people, natural beauty, small town charms, and deep history, it is easy to understand the appeal.

Our local host, Anne , takes an active interest in her guests. Along with the usual orientation she offers for the region, she is able to help set up specific activities and classes for guests who are interested. She also becomes a friend to those who visit.

The Provence Untour is a special program, but don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what other guests are saying about their experience in Provence, along with some tips about the region.

The Hermann apartments were perfectly located. Stunning sights in all parts of Provence were just a short drive away. The pool was a lovely refreshment at the end of a packed touring day and the quiet, charming countryside was a real oasis. Provence itself was truly unique: Roman ruins layered on Medieval sites, layered on Impressionist history, with abbeys and lavender fields around every turn. I’ve been to many wonderful places. Provence was on my “do again” list even before the trip was over. Loved it! – R. Avery

This was my 4th trip with Untours. It has always been a wonderful experience. Everyone who helped us so much with planning the trip, getting us train tickets and reservations at the two hotels we stayed at, were nothing more than excellent. I will certainly travel with Untours again and have been telling all my friends that this is the way to go. – G. Box

The experience was a perfect combination of “doing our own thing” and yet having support and help when needed. Both our Untours on-site person, Anne, and our landlady greatly enhanced our experience by being so helpful, friendly, and upbeat! – L. Sexton

Too many places, not enough time, but we felt we had the chance to interact with the local residents and experience their way of life to a small degree. We enjoyed visiting markets and enjoying in season strawberries and the roadside poppies. The Roman ruins and villages and monasteries were wonderful. The Pont du Gard and the iPad tour of the Papal Palace were 2 highlights of our experience. – B. Anderson

Definitely felt like we were “living like a local”, taking advantage of local markets, shops and touring around the countryside. Because of the rail strikes in France, we didn’t get into any larger cities. We did not feel comfortable driving a lot and searching for parking in order to do so. But not a problem! We spent our time on back roads and in smaller villages and had a wonderful relaxing vacation. – N. Wood

We had three day-long events that were arranged by Anne that were very special. 1. A cooking class with Cornelia that included shopping at Carpentras market. Cornelia could not have been more generous of her time. 2. We had a winery tour with Anne that included a special visit to the winery where Cornelia’s boyfriend sells his grapes. We were treated like royalty. 3. Anne helped arrange a day of birding in the Camargue with Frederic, a professional bird guide from St. Remy. Frederic was a delight, and any serious bird watcher would be pleased with his abilities. – K. Moore

Untours does a great job at finding excellent places to stay in the area you are going to. The orientation dinner the next day is always excellent and the Untours representative is always very knowledgeable, helpful and nice. Clearly everyone in the States and abroad enjoy working for Untours. I have recommended their site to many of my friends and family. – W. McEntee

Check it out for yourself! Try a Provence Untour and let us know all about your experience!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• What is an UnTour
• All UnTour regions
• UnTours Samplers
• All Ventures
• Cruises & More
• Terms & Conditions
• UnTours Foundation
• Green Travel
• Copyright © 2010-2017 All Rights Reserved
• Privacy Policy
• [email protected]   |   1-888-868-6871

Subscribe to get our posts in your inbox!

• Tour Account ›
• Travel Forum ›
• Travel Forum
• Trip Reports

Provence Trip Report

Thanks to the forum!

My brief overview of our trip. Album will be posted at the end for those seeking photos.

• Flew into CDG, took TGV to Avignon TGV outside the city. Rented car.
• Drove 20 minutes to St.Remy. Easy to park there. AIRBNB had a code to get into the house. Very easy.
• We stayed in the city centre of St.Remy. We spend Saturday to following Sunday. SO like 8 days.

Places visited: Les Baux Aix Cassis Bandol Chateau Neuf Du pape Arles Pont du gard Gorges of Verdun Marseille Various Wineries and olive oil shops Carpentras l'isle Sorgue Seguret Rasteau Carianne Gigondas St.Tropez Baume (Mary Magdalena tomb) Vacqueryras Lots of other Cote du Rhone villages.

Part 2: We drove to Lyon for lunch and a walk around. WE then arrived in Beaune. We stay at a small winery AirBNB. Very cool. Spent 2 nights and a day in Beaune. Did the catacombs, a castle and some wine tasting.

Part 3: AirBNB in StGermaine area of Paris. Also did Versailles this time around. Plus the usual bucket list (My 3rd time in Paris, still havent done it all)

Picture album.

pix.sfly.com/QnpjGG97

Nice pictures. I'll be heading next Aug/Sep for my 3rd trip to Paris. Have been May/Jun & Oct before. Trying out different times. And yes, a lot more to see & do.

How big was your travel group?

4 people. Was perfect!

• Did only one person do the driving, or did you split it?
• How many km did you drive on the whole trip?
• What month did you go?

Your pics look great! Love all the food shots.

It was my.wife and our moms. I did all the driving. I enjoy driving, I also control the radio(Spotify) and planned everything. Provence is very fun to drive in!

Went through about 4 tanks of gas on a BMW X3 diesel.

Love your pictures! Of the places we've been so far, Provence is one of my favorites. It's relaxed and beautiful. St Remy is well located. What were your impressions of Lyon?

That was my 3rd time to Lyon. Its a more chill version of Paris. Lot less crowd, and WAY better food. All the main cooking schools are based out of Lyon. You can get Michelin star meals for normal prices. Plus close proximity to Rhone Valley gets your great affordable wines.

Morvegil All I can say is WOW! Holy Smoke! Incredible pictures! I don't know who the photographer is, but they have a great eye. Of course the subject matter was fabulous! The skies in Provence... What can I say, they are fabulous. What time of year were you there? I see you were wearing jackets, so I'm guessing the Fall. I also see that you're from Houston. I'm hoping that Harvey didn't interfere with your plans. As a fellow Texan I'm also celebrating the Astros World Series win.

Literally 2 weeks after Harvey!

Fantastic report and pics

This topic has been automatically closed due to a period of inactivity.

• FANNATION FANNATION FANNATION
• SI.COM SI.COM SI.COM
• SI Swimsuit SI Swimsuit SI Swimsuit
• SI Sportsbook SI Sportsbook SI Sportsbook
• SI Tickets SI Tickets SI Tickets
• SI Showcase SI Showcase SI Showcase
• SI Resorts SI Resorts SI Resorts

Raptors Share Injury Report vs Heat As Final Trip Nears

The Toronto Raptors have listed Gary Trent Jr. and Bruce Brown as questionable to play the Miami Heat on Friday

• Author: Aaron Rose

In this story:

The Toronto Raptors aren't throwing in the towel quite yet.

RJ Barrett and Kelly Olynyk will both return to the court Friday night as the Raptors play their penultimate game of the season against the Miami Heat. Both players had been given the night off on the second night of a back-to-back on Wednesday but will be ready to go in Miami.

Only Gary Trent Jr. and Bruce Brown are listed as questionable for Toronto. Brown is battling right knee inflamation that kept him sidelined on Wednesday while Trent has been dealing with back spasms.

It sounds like Scottie Barnes could probably make a return at some point this week, but Toronto has opted to play it extra cautious with the third-year forward to ensure that he's healthy heading into the summer. Both he and Jakob Poeltl should be at full strength following the season but will be out through the end of the season.

Chris Boucher, DJ Carton, and Jontay Porter all remain out as well.

Miami will have an almost fully healthy team with Duncan Robinson and Josh Richardson the lone injured players for the Heat.

The Heat sit a game back of the Philadelphia 76ers for the eighth seed in the East and two games back of the Indiana Pacers and Orlando Magic for the fifth and sixth seeds in the conference.

Toronto, meanwhile, needs to lose at least one more game to clinch the sixth-worst record in the NBA. If the Raptors can do that Friday, there's a reasonable chance that Sunday's game will be meaningless for both Toronto and Miami.

Latest Raptors News

Kings-Raptors Injury Report: Huerter, Quickley Status Revealed

Draft Digest: 2024 NBA Draft Big Board

2024 NBA Mock Draft: Projections at Start of NCAA Tournament

Raptors' Ochai Agbaji Shows How Crucial March Madness Can Be

Ailing Raptors in Tough vs. Kings: Where to Watch, Injury Reports, and More

• Saint-Remy-de-Provence Tourism
• Saint-Remy-de-Provence Hotels
• Saint-Remy-de-Provence Bed and Breakfast
• Saint-Remy-de-Provence Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Saint-Remy-de-Provence
• Saint-Remy-de-Provence Restaurants
• Things to Do in Saint-Remy-de-Provence
• Saint-Remy-de-Provence Travel Forum
• Saint-Remy-de-Provence Photos
• Saint-Remy-de-Provence Map
• All Saint-Remy-de-Provence Hotels
• Saint-Remy-de-Provence Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Saint-Remy-de-Provence
• Saint-Remy-de-Provence
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Trip Report Provence - Saint-Remy-de-Provence Forum

• Europe    
• France    
• Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur    
• Bouches-du-Rhone    
• Saint-Remy-de-Provence    

Trip Report Provence

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Bouches-du-Rhone forums
• Saint-Remy-de-Provence forum

Weather, unfortunately, was colder than we’d expected. Thankfully, a friend who had arrived in Paris a few days earlier emailed about the weather, and so I ditched the lighter-weight clothes and put in a turtleneck, down jacket, etc.

Things I did right:

1. Made a serious effort to learn basic french before I went. I had taken French in high school and college (many, many moons ago) and remembered almost nothing. So, as soon as I started planning this trip, the first thing I did was load up the iPod touch with French language lessons and I made a very serious effort to learn basic French. The internet is overflowing with free or almost-free language resources and my favorite turned out to be Coffee Break French, see http://radiolingua.com/shows/french/coffee-break-french/ I started out with the free lessons, but was so impressed that I decided to upgrade to the complete paid lessons at £99 GBP which gave me extra lessons and enhanced features.

A friend suggested Learn in Your Car French, and a second friend had used Rapid French, and I also loaded those on the iPod and got to work learning basic travel phrases. I listened to lessons in the car , at the grocery store, while I walked the dog, etc.

While I wasn’t able to carry on extensive conversations, knowing the various basics helped. I was able to ask for bathrooms, where did you buy that baguette, for directions, and to understand directions given, I could make my way through a menu, order food, It was definitely worth the trouble I put into it.

Now most French folks we ran into had a good basic understanding of English and when they realized I was an English speaker, they usually responded in English, not French. However, they seemed to really appreciate that I tried to learn French, and then seemed genuinely appreciative when I wished them a “bonne journee” at the end of our (mostly-English) conversation.

2. Packed as light as possible. A friend of mine is a Rick Steves devotee and she won me over to his “pack light” mantra. I was gone a total of ten days and packed only three complete outfits. Had a washing machine in our apartment in Paris, washed a few things in the hotel sink in Provence. Though we rented a car in Provence, we did have to carry our luggage to and from the train and plane , and as I carried all of my clothes on my back in a relatively small backpack, I watched others struggle with huge suitcases and was so glad that I wasn't in their predicament.

3. Used St. Remy as our base in Provence. We loved, loved, loved the little town! Stayed at Le Castelet des Alpilles, a sweet little hotel where parking was free. We’d been advised to stay in Arles, but I wanted the ease of a smaller town. And, when we did visit Arles I knew I’d done the right thing. St. Remy was so easy and friendly with lots of great little restaurants. Plus, our hotel was only 100 euros per night.

4. We spent part of one afternoon just driving aimlessly/exploring, picking roads around St. Remy that looked interesting. We happened on the sweetest little village that we absolutely loved: Paradou. I wouldn’t give anything for that.

5. Rode the TGV from Paris to Avignon and back. The scenery and whole train experience was fabulous!

I got a great rate by buying an Anywhere Anytime France ® pass and then immediately cashing in the pass for the route we wanted. I had priced the train a few months earlier, but dragged my feet booking the actual tickets, and then when I finally got ready to book, all the cheap seats were gone and I was looking at paying 100 euro more per person. (Turned out the weekend we went was a huge national holiday I didn’t know about.) Well, the Anywhere Anytime France pass saved me. I paid lower prices AND got first class seats, so I really lucked out.

6. Hit the Saturday morning street market in Arles. Unfortunately, we didn’t get as long time at the market as we wanted as we arrived late and spent a lot of time looking for parking and then met some friends and walked with them, not realizing the market closed by 1 or 2. Really sorry we didn’t arrive earlier and get to see more of the market.

7. Went to the bull games in Nimes, the “Course Camargaiuse.” See http://www.ffcc.info/ This is a bloodless alternative to the original bullfights (where bulls are killed.) The game was in the ancient roman coliseum in Nimes and was fascinating. Better than me trying to explain it, watch this you tube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtX3ToFqnWI&feature=related (the guys in white are trying to snatch a tassel that is tied to the bull’s horns)

Things I'd do different next time:

1. Take better maps. I just didn’t think out the whole map thing in my trip planning. I considered taking my own GPS, but it would have cost $99 to add French maps and I got cheap and decided against it. Well, as soon as we arrived in Avignon, I totally regretted not bringing my GPS and so I asked the rental car folks for a GPS for our rental. Only problem, they were out of GPS. Which made me sick to my stomach as the free map the car rental folks gave us (a photocopy of Avignon) was lame. Thankfully, we made it okay to St. Remy (thanks to road signs) and the bookstore in downtown St. Remy carried a huge selection of Michelin maps. That really saved me, but a GPS would have been even better as we took several wrong turns (even with the map). Next time....

2. Stay longer. We had only three full days in Provence, which was just enough to scratch the surface. It passed way too quickly.

4. Give myself more time to plan. I totally underestimated how much time I needed to plan this vacation. The time got away from me and I hardly read anything in the Provence tour book I had bought. I regret that.

5. Arrive at the train station earlier! The station we left from in Paris (Gare Lyon ) was HUGE and the signage wasn’t as good as it could have been so we didn't know where to go. We got some bad directions, went to the wrong place, then had to get new directions and backtrack. So, even though we arrived at the station about 45 minutes before our train, we ran out of time. We had booked and paid for tickets online, but we needed to get tickets printed out at the station. I couldn’t get the kiosk to work and the lines at the ticket windows were long. We came within maybe 5 minutes of missing our train. It was nerve-wracking!

Michele, what scale Michelin maps did you buy? I use the scale of 1/150,000 or 1/200,000 and they never fail me. They of course, don't show roads in cities and towns, but for getting between places they've never let me down. And I've never used a GPS. Plus, if you buy them before your trip it is so easy to lay them out and get a good visual grasp on where things are located, what the roads will be like etc.

This was my first experience with Michelin, and no one in the book store had time to help me (it was crazy busy), so I just tried to figure it out on my own.

I love my GPS. It's one of those things you wonder how you ever lived without when you finally break down and buy one. The little screen instantly shows you exactly where you are. Plus, if you have an exact address you need to go to (say your hotel in a distance town) you simply key in the address and it picks the shortest route and takes you there with turn by turn voice directions plus out lines the route on the screen. And gives you a good estimate of how long you'll take to get there if you are meeting someone and need to set a time to meet. It's a great thing to have if you often drive to unfamiliar addresses.

Also, if you drive alone you don't have time to be watching the road and reading a map. A GPS is indispensable for solo drivers.

We had to catch the TGV back to Paris at 6:29 am Monday morning, and though we gave ourselves an hour for the 31 minute drive, I was still nervous. A GPS would have calmed my nerves.

Having the good map AND GPS would have been ideal.

That being said, the routes through the countryside were very well marked most of the time in Provence. The GPS would have come in most handy for city driving where it's not always easy to keep up with what street you're on/where you need to turn, etc.

Yeah, I know one of these days I'll break down and buy a GPS. I have friends who use them so I know what they can do. I used to have a job where I read a map every day for 20 years and I have a degree in geography so I've always had a natural instinct for direction and orientation. Even with the GPS I'll never get rid of or stop using my maps. There's nothing like having it all laid out in front of you. Hope you stay longer next time you visit so you can get more out of it.

Funny, I have always been the map reader in the family, I'm great with directions, and most Mainers own a great mapbook, see http://shop.delorme.com/OA_HTML/DELibeCCtdItemDetail.jsp?item=168&section=10048&forge_prod=vddakUviuq-jyIPPUjQXZwms:S&forge_prod_pses=forge_prod%3DvddakUviuq-jyIPPUjQXZwms%253AS%7E that covers the state in intricate details. Plus, I used to use Mapquest a lot. So, it took me so long to break down and buy a GPS.

But, when I travel alone in big cities (Boston, etc.) especially when I need to keep to a schedule, using a map while driving is a headache. And, last summer I ran into a fatal accident that closed a road, and the police simply turned us around without setting up a detour. It rendered my mapquest printout totally useless and only by seat-of-my-pants lucky guessing did I find my way to my very important job on time. I broke down and bought the GPS the next week and haven't looked back since!

Oops. Posted twice.

Thank you for a wonderful report. It's clear that you're hooked on Provence, hope you get to go back soon. For us, it's only another 106 days and I can hardly wait

Thanks Alipilles Gal. We loved the Alpilles. We did Les Baux (I thought the view was spectacular but the shops way over commercialized) and the Val d'Enfer drive and one afternoon just burned a few hours driving roads through the Alpilles. Reminded me a bunch of Acadia National Park's "bald" mountains, though of course the Alpilles are much taller. I bet they are great for hiking.

Your market list (and pointer about using the parking gararge in Arles) where a huge help. We also stopped at a boulangerie in Beaucaire for lunch midday on Sunday and hit a small market wrapping up there.

Actually I'm a transplanted Southern gal. A Mainer by choice, not my birth.

Haven't been on the Downeaster but anything is better than being on I-93 in a traffic jam.

• Driving from St Remy to Paris yesterday
• St Remy market or Aix-en-Provence market? yesterday
• Christmas Eve restsurants Dec 04, 2023
• Taxi to Avignon Oct 27, 2023
• winery tours leaving from St Remy or L’Isle sur la Sorgue? Sep 25, 2023
• Taxi service from Marseille airport to St. Remy Aug 26, 2023
• group cooking class Aug 17, 2023
• Festival on September 30, 2023? Aug 08, 2023
• Travel by car from Calais to St Remy du Provence Jun 20, 2023
• taxis from Avignon TGV to St Remy Jun 17, 2023
• Toss up between three hotels in St Remy Jun 16, 2023
• Clothes Steamer Purchase May 31, 2023
• which town is the best base? May 28, 2023
• Best sights and vineyards/wine tasting near St Remy? May 11, 2023
• Traveling to St. Remy from Paris...Help Please! 8 replies
• Loved Fragrance B&B in Saint-remy-de-Provence 4 replies
• Le Mas de l'Estello Reservations? 4 replies
• B&B/Farm stay suggestions? 2 replies
• St Remy restaurants 9 replies
• bus from St Remy to Avignon 3 replies
• Driving in St. Remy/Avignon 7 replies
• St. Remy to Marseille airport 3 replies
• Hotel Mas Des Carrassins 9 replies
• Mas des Carrasins room question 6 replies

Saint-Remy-de-Provence Hotels and Places to Stay