road trip south of france

The Ultimate South of France Road Trip Itinerary (2 Weeks)

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

Here’s the Best Road Trip South of France Itinerary

The South of France is the perfect French holiday destination. There are many great places to visit in Southern France , the scenery is always beautiful, and the food and culture are hard to beat.

This area of France has a wonderful climate with long warm summer days stretching through to September and October. Winters in Southern France, especially along the Mediterranean coast, are always mild.

The best way to explore Southern France is by car. This South of France road trip itinerary from Toulouse to Nice (or vice-versa) covers the French regions of Occitanie and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. This Southern France road trip itinerary lasts two weeks, and it is a good itinerary for first-timers in Southern France who love history, sightseeing, outdoor activities, and great food.

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

Southern France Road Trip Overview

• Start: Toulouse
• Finish: Nice
• Duration: 14 days
• Suggested route: Toulouse – Narbonne – Arles – Camargue – Aix-en-Provence – Cassis – Cannes – Nice
• Total distance: 751 Km, 8.5 hours drive in total
• Region covered: Occitanie and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
• Best for: history, sightseeing, nature, small towns, food & wine

This South of France road trip itinerary starts from  Toulouse , the capital city of the Occitanie region. Toulouse is easy to reach by train from Paris or Bordeaux. The journey from Paris to Toulouse by train takes around 4 hours while Bordeaux to Toulouse by train is only 2 hours.

Toulouse also has one of the major airports in France . Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS) has regular and seasonal international flights from Europe, Africa, and America – Click here for flight times and rates to Toulouse .

TIP: If you are looking for a road trip from Paris to South of France, here’s the perfect road trip itinerary for you .

South France Road Trip Map

Click here to see this South France Road Trip Map on Google

South of France Road Trip Itinerary

For this South of France roadtrip, you don’t need the car until day 2, so if you are taking a South of France driving holiday in a hire car, wait until then to pick up your rental car in Toulouse. Click here for our best tips for renting a car in France .

Click here to rent your car in Toulouse

Day 0 | Arrival at Toulouse

Arrive at Toulouse the day before the start of this road trip South France. For your two nights in Toulouse, the Boutique Hotel SOCLO  is comfortable, beautiful, and very central. Its swimming pool and garden are ideal for the warmest days in Southern France.

Click here to book your stay at Boutique Hotel Soclo

Day 1 | Toulouse

Located in the Southwest of France, between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, Toulouse is the fourth largest city in France. Boasting a rich historical heritage and sumptuous monuments, the famous “Pink City” always ranks among the most beautiful cities in France .

Cradle of aviation and space, Toulouse is ranked among the most advanced technology parks in terms of research. With many elegant mansions, historical buildings, museums, and monuments, Toulouse welcomes many students and tourists each year, making the city very lively and an excellent base to explore the region.

The list of interesting things to visit in Toulouse includes:

• Toulouse free walking tour
• Place du Capitole
• Basilique Saint-Sermin
• Toulouse bike tour
• La Cité de l’Espace
• The banks of the River Garonne
• La Maison de la Violette
• Halle de la Machine (exhibition hall of performance machines)
• Nocturnes at Marché Victor Hugo (Thursday night)

TIP: with this Toulouse City Card , enjoy free entrance to museums along with discounts at dozens of participating partners. Travel for free on city buses, trams, and the metro, save money on cruises, boat rental, and much more!

Day 2 | Toulouse – Carcassonne – Narbonne

It’s time to hit the road and drive to Narbonne, the next stop of this South of France trip. The drive from Toulouse – Narbonne via the A61 highway is straightforward and only takes 1.5 hours.

If you are not in a hurry, stop for a couple of hours at Carcassonne to admire one of the most beautiful medieval towns in France . The Cité de Carcassonne is listed UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the top sights of the Cathar Country .

For your stay in Narbonne , book two nights at Hôtel La Résidence . Set in an elegant 19th building well located to the Canal de la Robine, with restaurants and public parking nearby, Hôtel La Résidence offers everything you could expect for a perfect stay in Narbonne.

Click here to book your stay in Hôtel La Résidence

Day 3 | Narbonne

Located in the Aude department, in the Occitanie region , Narbonne is a touristy city thanks to its 5 km of thin sand at Narbonne-Plage . It is also a city with a rich history that goes back to Roman times (118 BC) and an excellent base to explore the Massif de la Clape and the Fontfroide Abbey.

The Canal de la Robine is one of France’s oldest canals, and it separates the Historical Center and the Cité district in central Narbonne. Here, you will see vestiges of Antiquity, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and Narbonne’s Age of Gold at the end of the 19th century.

The list of interesting things to visit in Narbonne includes:

• Stroll around the Old Town
• Visit the Cathédrale Saint-Just-et-Saint-Pasteur
• Visit the Archaeological Museum of Narbonne
• Visit the Musée Lapidaire de Narbonne
• Explore the Musée Roman Horréum (ancient Roman galleries)
• Beach day at Narbonne-Plage
• Sail the Canal de la Robine on an electric boat (no boating license required).

Day 4 | Arles

After three days in the Occitanie region, this road trip Southern France moves to Provence. Provence is one of France’s favorite destinations and a must on any Southern France itinerary. With gorgeous towns such as Cassis, Grasse, St Remy, and Arles and stunning countryside, you can see why it remains one of the most popular destinations in France to visit.

Start the day early with a coffee and drive to Arles , where you will spend one night. For your stay in Arles, book at L’Hotel Particulier , a charming private mansion built in the 18th century and lovingly renovated in the center of Arles. L’Hotel Particulier offers stylish rooms with comfortable beds, beautiful floral gardens, a pool, and private parking.

Click here to book your stay at L’Hotel Particulier

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

Arles was also the base for Paul Gauguin and Van Gogh. Here, Van Gogh painted some of his most famous masterpieces.

The list of interesting things to visit in Arles includes:

• Arènes d’Arles
• Roman Theater
• Arles through Van Gogh: Espace Van Gogh & Fondation Van Gogh
• Abbey of Montmajour
• Church and Cloister St Trophime
• Musée Départamentale Arles Antique
• Les Alyscamps (Roman necropolis)

Days 5 and 6 | The Camargue

From Arles, this south of France itinerary 14 days takes a detour for the sole reason of visiting the Camargue. The Camargue Regional Natural Park is the largest wetland in France, covering a surface of ​​100,000 hectares. It is famous worldwide for its stunning landscapes, lakes, and exceptional fauna.

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

From Arles, take the road D570 to Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer . Considered the capital of the Camargue, Les Saintes is a little corner of paradise with beautiful beaches, wild nature, and some places of interest.

After four days on the road, it’s time to relax for a couple of days in one of France’s most beautiful natural regions! For your stay in the Camargue, book two nights at the Hotel La Tramontane . The hotel offers individually-decorated, airy rooms which lead to the outdoor swimming pool, the garden, and a private pond.

Click here to book your stay in Hotel La Tramontane

To get the most out of this natural paradise, book this guided safari in a convertible 4×4 , which starts from Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. If you prefer to explore the Camargue from the water, rent a boat (with or without a skipper) at Port Camargue.

Day 7 | Aix-en-Provence

Start the day early and enjoy a last breakfast in the gardens of Hotel La Tramontane. Back to Arles, take the N113 road direction to Aix-en-Provence , the next stop of this Southern France road trip.

For a unique stay in Aix-en-Provence, book a night at the  Hotel des Augustins , a former 12th-century convent just off the famous Cours Mirabeau in the heart of the Old Town. The hotel features spacious rooms combining historic and modern features and a magnificent lobby.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel des Augustins

Aix-en-Provence   is the typical Provencal city and a wonderful place to explore in Southern France. Aix’s historic center, with Italian influences, boasts beautiful architecture and pretty squares adorned with stone fountains. Aix is also known for its traditional markets. The Aix-en-Provence markets are worth exploring for their colorful stalls and delicious local products.

The list of fun things to do in Aix-en-Provence includes:

• Stroll around the Old Tour
• Aix-en-Provence markets walking tour with tastings
• A coffee break at Cours Mirabeau
• The Mazarin neighborhood
• Paul Cézanne’s workshop
• Granet Museum (art museum)
• Taste the famous  calissons  (Aix’s typical sweets)
• E-bike tour of Montagne Sainte-Victoire

TIP: Don’t miss this 3-hour gourmet walking tour in Aix-en-Provence’s Old Town!

Days 8 and 9 | Cassis

From Aix-en-Provence, drive to Cassis , the last Provencal destination of this South of France itinerary by car. For your stay in Cassis, book two nights at Le Jardin d’Emile . This characteristic Provence-style house has the perfect location by the beach with a short walk to the port/town. Le Jardin d’Emile offers uniquely decorated rooms, each with a different color and atmosphere, a garden, and an outdoor terrace overlooking Cape Canaille.

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

Cassis  is a cute fishing town located on one of the sides of the  Parc National des Calanques de Marseille-Cassis . This colorful town near  Marseille , so typical of Provence, is one of the best coastal towns in France , perfect for a couple of relaxing days by the Mediterranean Sea.

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

On day 9, you can take a day trip to Marseille – here’s a list of the best things to do in Marseille . You can also explore the Calanques of Cassis on foot or on a catamaran tour.

Suggested tours and activities:

• Calanques National Park sea kayaking tour
• Calanques Cassis Hike: Port-Miou, Port-Pin & En-Vau
• From Marseille: 5-hour catamaran tour with lunch
• Calanques & Viewpoints guided tour with mountain e-bike
• Rent a boat, with or without a skipper, in Cassis

Days 10 and 11 | Cannes

The last days of this South France road trip are spent in Côte d’Azur, also known as French Riviera . Côte d’Azur is well-known for its beaches and coves, impressive views, azure water, and for being a playground for the wealthy. The French Riviera is also home to pretty towns and villages, and there’s a vibrant cultural scene, especially in the summer.

From Cassis, drive to Cannes , where you will spend two nights. For your stay in Cannes, book at Hotel Croisette Beach Cannes Mc Gallery . Located in central Cannes, 150m far from the famous La Croisette beach, this hotel offers the best of the French Riviera: stylish and comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, a restaurant with sea views, and a private beach at an extra cost.

Click here to book your stay in Hotel Croisette Beach Cannes Mc Gallery

Known for its luxurious accommodations and shopping, as well as for the world-famous Cannes Film Festival, Cannes truly is a dream destination for many travelers. Cannes is the kind of place you visit when you want to relax and enjoy some luxury. With its stunning beaches, warm weather, and convenient location close to Nice, this is where the stars go for a holiday.

Use the first day in Cannes to visit the city. The list of fun things to do in Cannes includes:

• Cannes free walking tour
• Explore Le Suquet (Cannes’ oldest neighborhood)
• La Croix des Gardes neighborhood
• The Old Port
• La Croisette Walkway
• Sandy beaches
• Villa Rothschild

For your second day, you can take a relaxing catamaran tour with lunch or drive to one of the many great places to visit on the French Riviera near Cannes:

• Juan-les-Pins
• Boat trip to the Calanques d’Esterel
• Mandelieu-la-Napoule
• Private boat trip to Lérins Islands and Cap d’Antibes

Days 12, 13, and 14 | Nice

The last stop of this road trip South of France is Nice , the capital of the French Riviera. For your stay in Nice, book three nights at the  Hotel La Pérouse Nice Baie des Anges . This 4-star hotel is nestled into the Colline du Château, and it comes with Nice’s best view over the Baie des Anges. Rooms are huge, with elegant Mediterranean décor, and some of them also come with a private balcony with great ocean views. 

Click here to book your stay at Hotel La Pérouse Nice Baie des Anges

In Nice , take your time to explore the Old Town, taste some provençal specialties, and, of course, have a stroll on the famous  Promenade des Anglais ! Nice also has some of the  best French Riviera beaches , and their turquoise waters are calling for a dip.

For your first two days in Nice, we recommend this  Nice 2-day itinerary , which also explores the colorful neighboring town of Villefranche-sur-Mer . For your last day in the city, take one of these best day trips from Nice . We recommend Éze Village and Menton , but all the places on the list are lovely.

So, what are you waiting for? Book this South of France road trip itinerary today!

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Only South of France Road Trip Itinerary in 7 Days You’ll Ever Need

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The South of France is simply perfection. It is a destination that truly entices your senses. Hints of lavender and handmade soap fill the air, tastes of cheeses and jams at the market delight the tastebuds, and even the views of hilltop villages and sun-drenched beaches will leave you breathless. And the best way to experience it is with a South of France road trip itinerary!

If you’re currently planning a trip to the South of France, you’ve probably realized by now that this area of the world has SO much to offer. This definitely makes creating a plan for 7 days in Provence tricky. 

However, after countless hours of research and dreaming, I have created a perfect 7-day South of France itinerary including stops in Avignon, the villages of the Luberon, Aix-en-Provence, Cassis, Cannes, and Nice that you’re 100% going to love. How do I know that? 

Well, I was just there and enjoyed the heck out of it. And yes, it is all super doable in just 7 days. So sit back, relax, dream of sunny days and rosé, and let’s get into it. 

What is Provence?

You’ve likely noticed above that I have used both “South of France” and “Provence” interchangeably. Well, Provence, or Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, is a region in the southeast of France well-known for its Mediterranean beaches and lavender fields. 

It is also referred to as the South of France, especially among English speakers, even though it is not the only region that is in the south. 

Now, to break it down further, Provence is made up of 6 departments, which are administrative departments. These include Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Hautes-Alpes, Alpes-Maritimes, Bouches-du-Rhône, Var, and Vaucluse. 

In this Southern France itinerary, we’ll be visiting Vaucluse, Bouches-du-Rhône, and Alpes-Maritimes departments. 

Summary of the Ultimate South of France Itinerary in 7 Days

For a quick reference guide, here is a breakdown of where to go during a South of France road trip!

• Days 1-2: Avignon & Chateaunuef-du-Pape
• Day 3: Drive the Villages of the Luberon to Aix-en-Provence
• Day 4: Aix-en-Provence and Cassis
• Days 5-6: Cannes
• Day 7: Nice 

For more details of all the things to do in the best Provence itinerary, keep reading below! 

Only 7-Day South of France Road Trip Itinerary You’ll Ever Need

From charming villages to a chilled-out beach day, let’s talk about how to have the best South of France Itinerary in 7 days! 

Days 1-2: Avignon and Châteauneuf-du-Pape

To start your Southern France itinerary, Avignon is always a great idea . Steeped in history, this city is a lovely spot to base yourself for exploring the town and nearby area. 

Then, because you’re in the Southern Rhône wine region, you’ve got to visit Chateauneuf-du-Pape! 

Day 1: Avignon & Pont du Gard 

For your first day, arrive in Avignon . Now, the easiest way to get to Avignon is via train. So, depending on where you’re coming from, you can easily take the train from Marseille or Paris. We spent 2 days in Paris beforehand, so we took the 2.5-hour train to Avignon. 

PS- Avignon is a great weekend trip from Paris too!

FYI- There are 2 main train stations in Avignon. The Avignon Centre Railway Station is just outside the city center. The Avignon TGV Railway Station is an 11-minute drive southwest of the city. 

This is super important to know because you’ll be renting a car in Avignon for your South of France road trip itinerary, so choosing the right station is key. Most car rental companies are located at the TGV Railway Station. 

Trust me, I made this mistake and had to Uber over to the correct station to get my car. 

Alright, once you’ve picked up your rental car, it is time to head into Avignon! 

On your first day in Avignon, the best thing to do is to wander around the old city. Have lunch at Cafe Saint-Jean with views of the square and the lovely Saint-Jean Tower. 

Pop into shops around the old city, including Autrefois , with local treats like nougat and callisons, and explore squares like the Place de l’Horloge , before hopping back into your car to visit Pont du Gard . 

Pont du Gard is about a 30-minute drive from Avignon and is a must-see. This is an ancient Roman aqueduct that crosses the Gardon River. Step back through time at this first-century bridge that was used to carry water to Nîmes. 

This is a stunning area where you could spend a couple of hours walking down by the river, watching the kayakers float by, or you can even cross the bridge! 

Okay, you aren’t actually walking on the ancient structure, but rather on another bridge next to it. But you certainly get close! 

There are also ample hiking trails in the area and even a prehistoric cave. It is well worth spending the rest of the afternoon here before driving back to Avignon for dinner and drinks. 

And for dinner and drinks, definitely head to La Mirande . This 5-star luxury hotel is like stepping right into the Downtown Abbey drawing room. At least that is what it feels like when you have a seat at the salon with a handcrafted cocktail. 

Start with some dinner here at La Salle à Manger . Yes, you could eat at their Michelin-starred restaurant instead for their tasting menu, but if you don’t want to spend too much money, you can enjoy eating à la carte from La Salle à Manger. Trust me, it is just as delicious. 

Enjoy onion soup and delicious mackerel before heading to the bar post-dinner. 

The bar is the coziest spot for a drink with paintings on the wall, plush, 19th-century couches, and even a little fireplace. It is a delightful place for a martini and to wrap up the first day of your 1 week in the South of France. 

Day 2: Avignon & Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Fun fact: did you know that the popes used to live in Avignon? From 1309-1376 the popes lived in Avignon instead of Rome due to civil unrest. 

So, as you can imagine, they needed a place to stay. That is when the Pope’s Palace came to be. Construction began in 1335 and today you can visit this magnificent palace. 

I actually recommend purchasing a pass that includes the Pont de Benezet (or the Pont d’Avignon), Pope’s Palace , and the gardens. Then you can spend a few hours exploring these places. We purchased our passes at the Pont de Benezet.

After that, head to Les Halles to pick up provisions for dinner or some lunch. This massive indoor market has everything from meats and cheeses to fresh produce and wine. 

Then, in the afternoon, it is time to get picked up for your wine tour of Chateauneuf-du-Pape .

We loved this tour as it visits 2 wineries and you learn a lot about the making of this wine, the wine of this region, and more. 

Plus, Chateauneuf-du-Pape literally translates to the New Castle of the Pope. It is named after the castle built for the second of the popes in Avignon: Pope John XII. 

During the tour, you’ll visit a couple of wineries as well as visit the ruins of the castle. It wraps up that evening, and then I recommend winding down your day with some cheese and wine that you picked up at the market earlier. 

Where to Stay in Avignon: 

There are so many great places to stay in Avignon. We stayed in this Airbnb complete with its own kitchen, comfortable bedroom, and a washer/dryer. However, if you wish to stay at a hotel, these are great options:

Budget: Regina Hotel

Mid-Range: Aux Augustins

Luxury: Hotel La Mirande

Day 3 of Your Provence Itinerary in 7 Days: Driving the Villages of the Luberon

Today is a transition day from Avignon to Aix-en-Provence. And while you could just drive straight to the next destination, now is the perfect time to really take in the villages of the Luberon during your 7-day Provence road trip! 

So grab a quick coffee and croissant before driving through the Luberon Regional Natural Park to see some of the most beautiful villages in France. Seriously, there is even an award called “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France.” A couple of towns that you’re visiting today have this award. 

Of course, this area is also well-known for its lavender fields that bloom from mid-June through mid-July. So if you come during this period, expect some more crowds but also stunning lavender. 

But, even outside of the lavender season, this area is gorgeous. We visited in early October and had a great time driving through dreamy villages and enjoying a local market. 

Now there are plenty of stunning villages to drive through here, but, a must-see spot has to be Senanque Abbey . This abbey was founded in 1148 AD by Cistercian monks and is still a working abbey. 

It is gorgeous to visit on its own, but again, during the lavender season, this place really shines. It is surrounded by lavender. 

After the abbey, definitely check out Gordes . There is a lovely lookout spot for taking photos, but pass through the village or even stop at their market if you’re driving there on a Tuesday. This place was awarded one of the most beautiful villages in France, so it is worth a stop! 

Then, as it was a Saturday when we were driving the Luberon, we went to Apt specifically for their Saturday farmers market. Honestly, we were so impressed. It was so much fun to walk around, sampling jams, chutneys, cheeses, and sausages. 

We purchased so much just from this market including cheese, nougat, jam, handmade lavender soap, and more. Take some time here to grab essentials for a picnic lunch or just fill up at the market itself. 

FYI- Check out market days ahead of time while planning your itinerary. We chose to visit Apt for the market on Saturday, but there are markets all over the Luberon villages open on different days of the week. 

Also, many of these markets close up shop around 12:30 pm or so, meaning you’ll want to get there by at least 11:30 am to really take it all in. 

After Apt, it is time to hop back into the car and drive to another awarded beautiful village in France: Roussillon. Unlike other villages with limestone architecture, this place is red, orange, and yellow thanks to the ochre-rich cliffs. 

Wander in the village before walking along the Ochre Path to see the mineral-rich soil up close. There is a hiking path that is both 35 and 50 minutes long. 

Up next is Bonnieux , where you’ll stop in to try some rosé at a local winery: Chateau la Canorgue . This estate has free wine tastings and is just stunning. 

Then, definitely head to Lourmarin (another Plus Beaux Village winner) to see the Chateau de Lourmarin before stopping at Chateau Constantin for another tasting (drink responsibly, of course!). 

Then, last, but not least, as the day starts to turn into evening, head to Cucuron. This gorgeous little town has a basin lined with trees with ample cafes perfect for people-watching. We also loved the Citadel Tower with views over the little village. 

Once you’ve explored the Luberon, head into Aix-en-Provence for dinner and bedtime. 

Day 4: Aix-en-Provence & Cassis

Wake up and grab some breakfast before exploring the lovely city of Aix-en-Provence. Some highlights here include Cezanne’s Studio and Musee Granet. However, if you’re lucky and happen to be here on a Sunday as we were, it was fun just wandering around and visiting all the markets! 

There was a flower market, antique market, and food market that we visited and took in the scenery! It was also fun just to wander the streets and stop at confectionaries and other shops! 

Spend the morning exploring Aix-en-Provence before driving down to Cassis . 

Grab lunch by the harbor before going on a boat cruise of Calanques National Park . These Calanques are rock formations (typically from limestone) that create a deep gorge in which water from the sea flows. 

There is an option from Cassis to do a boat tour from the harbor with stops at either 3, 5, 8, or 9 Calanques. We ended up doing 5 as that lasted just over an hour (the longest tour is 2 hours and 20 minutes). You can buy tickets at the ticket booth and then go on the tour.

It was really cool to glide into these Calanques and enjoy the views! 

You could also hike to a few of the Calanques from Cassis if you have time. Or, if you want to get adventurous, why not take a kayak tour ? 

However, as we also wanted to explore more of Cassis and have dinner in Aix-en-Provence, we opted for the boat trip. 

After the boat cruise, we wandered around the harbor and ended with some beach time at Plage du Bestouan . 

After that, head back to Aix-en-Provence to explore during the evening before the next stop on your Southern France road trip. 

Where to Stay in Aix-en-Provence:

Aix-en-Provence has so many cute places to stay, including Airbnbs. We ended up staying in this amazing Airbnb that was our favorite apartment of the trip! However, if you prefer hotels, check out these places. 

Budget: Hotel des Augustins

Mid-Range: Renaissance Aix-en-Provence

Mid-Range: Maison Dauphine

Luxury: Villa Gallici

Days 5-6 of Your South of France Road Trip Itinerary: Cannes

Up next is the iconic star-studded town of Cannes ! Okay, there aren’t celebrities there year-round, just mostly during the Cannes Film Festival. 

Outside of that, this is a town of luxury shopping, delicious food, and beach clubs. 

Day 5: Drive to Cannes & Explore

Okay, there are two ways to shape this day during your South of France road trip in a week. The first is to go straight to Cannes and explore , which is what we did. 

We grabbed lunch, window-shopped at luxury stores like Chanel and Louis Vuitton, strolled along the Croisette Promenade as we took in the Mediterranean views, and then we hiked up to the Église Notre-Dame d’Espérance and wandered at a stellar sunset view over the city and sea. 

Then, we wrapped up our day with dinner at Restaurant Mickaella over in the Suquet neighborhood. Honestly, this neighborhood is the place to grab dinner and drinks. The stuff along the harbor is way too crowded in the evenings. This place has such a cool vibe and the restaurants are better. 

If you’re visiting during the lavender season and have the energy, you could make this another road trip day and visit the lavender fields in the Valensole Plateau and stop by Gorge du Verdon for a boat trip. 

Then, you’d end up in Cannes in the evening for dinner. 

Honestly, we were wiped from all the previous exploring (and we weren’t there during the lavender season) so we gave it a skip and went straight to Cannes, but it was in our original plan before having to reschedule our trip to October! 

Day 6: Beach Day in Cannes

Regardless of yesterday’s choose-your-own-adventure, today is meant for resting. The main point of our journey to Cannes was for a beach day. Why? 

While there are tons of great beaches along the French Riviera , Cannes is known for its sandy beaches versus pebbly ones. Plus, I always wanted to try out a beach club. 

So today is the day when you’ll head to a beach club off the Croissette Promenade for the day. Many of these places open up around 10 am and stay open until the evening. We ended up booking a spot at La Plage du Festival . 

And it was super adorable. You head downstairs from the promenade and are met with a colorful cocktail bar, ample seating for lunch, and several beach chairs and umbrellas. During the summertime, chairs go for €40-50+ for the day and include the chair, umbrella, and a towel. 

Luckily, if you show up in the fall, it usually is still warm enough for a swim and it is only around €25 for the day. 

So take advantage of having a beach chair all day and relax, read, go for a swim, have lunch, and get some rosé or Aperol spritzes. 

Then, clean up that evening and have dinner around the Suquet area again before your last day of the best 1 week South of France trip itinerary.

Where to Stay in Cannes: 

This can range wildly in prices as there are ample luxurious hotels. But, here are some based on your budget. 

Budget:  Novotel Suites Cannes Centre

Mid-Range: Hotel de Provence

Luxury: Hotel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes

Day 7 of the South of France Road Trip in a Week: Nice

To wrap up your South of France road trip, it is time to head to Nice. 

Nice is an iconic city on the French Riviera and for good reason. Its architecture is stunning, it has a fabulous market, and you can’t beat the relaxed atmosphere. 

So after a day pampering yourself by the beach in Cannes, why not end by exploring the city of Nice ?

Start off by driving toward the Nice Côte d’Azur airport to drop off your rental car. And even though it adds a bit more time, take the scenic route. There is a road that goes along the coast that you can take (I suggest using Google Maps and selecting that route). 

You’ll pass Antibes, Cagnes-sur-Mer, and more as you head to the Nice airport to drop off your rental car. 

Yes, you could just drop it off when you fly out the next day, but if you have an early flight this could be tricky. Plus, parking in Nice can be difficult so we just saved some money and dropped off the car this day. 

From there, head into Nice to explore. Walk along the Promenade des Anglais along the sea, visit the Cours Saleya Market for last-minute souvenirs and to try socca (a chickpea flour pancake with water, olive oil, and salt), and wander up to the Colline du Château for amazing views over the town and sea.

If you want to keep wandering, there are also cool spots to check out like Massena Square with its light-up statues or the Modern Art Museum. 

Obviously, there is a ton to do here, but if you only have a day, I’d keep it simple with the promenade, market, and chateau. Then, why not check out the beach before dinner? 

Then, it is time to head to bed as you unwind from your amazing South of France road trip itinerary! 

It is hard to leave this part of the world, but this trip will leave you with so many memories. 

Where to Stay in Nice:

Being a larger city, there are plenty of places to stay. Here are a few favorites. 

Budget: Arome Hotel

Mid-Range: Hotel Palais Saleya

Luxury: Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée

Best Way to Get Around the South of France

While this is a South of France road trip itinerary, there are other ways to explore this area. If you want to see smaller towns on your own schedule, though, renting a car is the best idea. 

But, you can also take trains to various cities like Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, Cannes, Cassis, and Nice. 

From there, you could stay and take day trips. Here are a few to check out! 

• From Avignon: Best of Provence Tour
• From Avignon: Luberon Villages Tour
• From Avignon: Lavender Tour
• From Aix-en-Provence: Luberon Villages Tour
• From Aix-en-Provence: Cassis Half-Day Tour
• From Aix-en-Provence: Cassis Boat Ride and Wine Tour
• From Aix-en-Provence: Valensole Lavender Tour
• From Nice: Full-Day French Riviera Day Tour

When to Visit Provence For Your 7-Day Trip

The most popular time to visit Provence is the summer, particularly when the lavender is in bloom from mid-June through mid-July. That is when Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and the Luberon villages will be full of people dreaming of a glimpse of the lavender fields. 

It is also warm and sunny along the beaches, making it a perfect time to swim. 

However, it is also insanely crowded at times. So while late May through August is a popular time to visit, I honestly loved our October trip. 

In October, it is still warm enough to swim most of the time in the earlier part of the month. We had a beach day in Cannes and it was great! We also started to see fall foliage which was charming, especially in the villages. 

Even the winter is much nicer than in northern France, especially along the Riviera. But, I’d say the best time for fewer people and great weather is September-October. 

But, if you’re here for lavender (which I totally understand- we were originally supposed to go for that!), opt for the beginning of July. 

Other Tips For Visiting Provence

Before you book that Provence road trip itinerary, here are some tips:

• Check dates/times of markets. Almost every city and village will have a market. Some are several days a week, while others are once a week. Most of the time they don’t stay open late. The Luberon markets typically wrap up around 12:30 pm. Markets like Les Halles in Avignon close at 2 pm. 
• Enjoy a slower pace. Some days we rushed to see a lot, but on others we relaxed and wandered. Leave room to wander during this trip. Stop at roadside cafes or shops and poke inside. Head to a winery. Pull over near the beach and go for a swim if you wish! Provence is meant to be savored. 
• Pack sunscreen. Provence is a sunny region, so pack sunscreen ! 
• Learn a little French. I’m not saying be fluent (I’m still learning too!), but know a few words/phrases like how to order at a restaurant and ask where the toilets are.
• Always say “Bonjour/Bonsoir.” This is a France travel thing in general. It is important to greet people in shops and cafes with a simple “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir” depending on the time of day. I typically start saying “Bonsoir” after 5 pm.
• Try all the local products! Provence has a plethora of unique products to try including soap, lavender (sprays, candy, syrups-you name it, there is lavender for it), aioli, spices, socca, and more! You may want to leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs. 
• Have fun! Provence is a stunning region full of jaw-dropping views and delightful cuisine. Enjoy every second during your 7 days in the South of France. 

A 7-day South of France itinerary is enough time to really savor Provence. You’ll experience local markets, incredible cuisine, dazzling beaches, and even enchanting towns. What could be better than that? 

Would you visit Provence? What would your ideal South of France itinerary look like? 

Want more France travel ideas? Check out these posts!

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• Best Day Trips From Annecy
• Paris Travel Tips For First Timers
• Hidden Gems of Paris
• Top French Cheeses
• Things to do in Grenoble
• How to Spend 3 Days in Paris
• Versailles Day Trip From Paris
• Best Time to Visit Paris
• Most Romantic Things to do in Paris
• Where to Stay in Paris
• Things to do in Lyon
• Best Things to do in Dijon
• Annecy Winter Guide
• 1 Day in Annecy
• Paris Bucket List
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• 1 Day in Strasbourg
• Weekend in Champagne Itinerary
• Epernay or Reims: Which Should You Visit?
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• Colmar Christmas Market Guide
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16 thoughts on “Only South of France Road Trip Itinerary in 7 Days You’ll Ever Need”

Thank you for this article I enjoyed reading it and I look forward to those vacation more than ever now

Hi am really keen on going to all these places but how did you go with parking your car in each village. Is it expensive and easy to do . I am going in October too

Hi Davinya! Parking isn’t too bad, especially since you’re traveling in the shoulder season. There are places to park around towns and you’ll either need to download a parking app to pay or pay at a pay station. Some bigger towns, like Aix-en-Provence, even have parking garages you can use as well. Parking wasn’t too bad in price either.

Hello there! I just finished reading your article about a South of France road trip itinerary in 7 days, and I must say, it’s an absolutely stunning and enticing journey through this beautiful region. The South of France has always been a dream destination for me, and your detailed insights and recommendations have left me even more eager to embark on this unforgettable road trip.

Your suggested itinerary for the South of France is well-planned and covers a diverse range of experiences. From the charming city of Nice to the picturesque lavender fields of Provence, you’ve curated a perfect route that captures the essence of this enchanting region.

I loved how you included practical tips for travelers, such as the best time to visit and recommended stops along the way. Your insights on where to indulge in delicious French cuisine and experience the local culture were very helpful.

The inclusion of lesser-known gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions was a wonderful addition. It’s evident that you want your readers to have a well-rounded and authentic journey through the South of France.

The captivating images throughout the article truly bring the destinations to life, making me feel like I’m already on this scenic road trip.

Thank you for sharing such a valuable and inspiring guide. Your article is a fantastic resource for travelers planning a South of France road trip, and I’ll be sure to refer to your tips when I plan my own journey. Keep up the fantastic work, and I’ll be eagerly waiting for more of your travel insights and recommendations!

Thank you! That is high praise! I hope you get to enjoy the South of France soon!

Thank you for sharing this it is very helpful

Hello Kat, my family is planning a trip to the south of France in October 2024. I was wondering what would be the best itinerary for a 2 week trip in car leaving from Paris and returning back to Paris. There are so many beautiful villages in the south and will need advice on the best villages to see and stay. Thanks

Hi Nelson! Have so much fun, the South of France is truly incredible. I would definitely recommend spending 7 days doing this itinerary, but, since you have some extra time, I would recommend spending a couple of days in the Luberon and perhaps staying in a town like Gordes. I also would recommend checking out Antibes and Saint-Tropez if you would like to go to more beach destinations. If you want more smaller towns to enjoy, check out L’Isle-Sur-la-Sorgue for its canals and its Sunday market, Grasse if you love perfume (it’s the perfume capital of the world!), and even Saint-Remy-de-Provence for its architecture and landscapes that once inspired Van Gogh. Since you’re driving all the way to Provence from Paris, you could also spend some time in Dijon and the villages of Burgundy as well as Lyon on the way down and perhaps stop by some chateaux of the Loire Valley on the way back to Paris. I hope this helps and have fun!

Hi, Regarding your comment below- is this accessible by train or is there an easy way to see the bridge without hiring a car?

“Pont du Gard is about a 30-minute drive from Avignon and is a must-see. This is an ancient Roman aqueduct that crosses the Gardon River. Step back through time at this first-century bridge that was used to carry water to Nîmes.”

Yes, it is easiest to see via car. However, you can take the train into Avignon and take Bus Line 115 to Pont du Gard. Timetables can be found here: https://storage.googleapis.com/is-wp-90-prod/uploads-preprod/2023/08/OC-0723-FHliO-30-115.pdf

Hi- is Senanque Abbey or the lavender fields accessible by public transport?

Sadly, this is not available via public transport. However, you could book a tour that stops here. This is a good tour that stops at Senanque Abbey during June and July for the lavender fields: https://gyg.me/UQNw8u9z

Hi Kat, I think you have just sorted out my summer vacation! Thank you so much for the details, pictures and amazing descriptions. I am just wondering how feasible this is to do on a budget and if you have anymore money saving recommendations.

Thanks so much 🙂 x

You’re welcome! You’re going to fall in love with the South of France! It wasn’t too terribly expensive when we went. However, it was in late September/early October. If you can go before peak season of July and August, that helps a bit. Also, instead of renting a car, you could take the train around to the cities and do day trips to places like the Luberon via a tour. Also, there are some B&Bs and hotels that can be found in these places for less money- I like checking for prices on TripAdvisor. Also, you can potentially grab Airbnbs and such too with a kitchen to save some $$$ on dining out every day. I hope this helps and have a great time!

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Happily Ever Adventures

24 Stunning Stops for Your South of France Road Trip Itinerary

Europe · France · Travel

Ah the South of France. Our favorite place in the world to travel to. We recently went on a 10 day South of France road trip and it was hands down our favorite trip ever. We are actually going back for our anniversary this year to do another South of France road trip. If you’d like to experience it for yourself, we’ve created a 10 day south of France itinerary to share with you. We’ve also included all things you need to know for your south of France vacation, so get ready, this is a very comprehensive guide! 

First things first, this south of France road trip itinerary is for 10 days, but in a perfect world, you’d be able to spend much longer in the south of France. From the sparkling seas, magical fairy tale villages, and idyllic countryside of Provence to the colorful and glam streets of the French Riviera, there is A LOT to do and see on a south of France vacation {as well as a lot to eat!}

We would love to spend a full month exploring the south of France, but we are limited by things like vacation days, budgets, and a never ending travel bucket list. If you are able to spend more than 10 days in the south of France, we highly recommend 2-3 weeks in order to create your perfect south of France itinerary.

If you’re limited on time like we usually are, we’ve got you covered with this 10 day south of France road trip itinerary {as well an alternate itinerary}, exploring the highlights of Provence and the French Riviera. We had a very difficult time planning our south of France travel plans because the region is just so large! We couldn’t fit in everything we wanted to see and we spent many long nights trying to figure it out.

Eventually we just accepted that we would need to narrow down what we could see and we could always come back. Here is the itinerary we followed {and loved!}, as well as an alternate south of France itinerary suggestion. Both south of France itineraries cover the highlights of Provence and the French Riviera. This way you will be able to visit the most popular towns and get a reference point for where you’d like to explore more of if you choose to come back. If you’d prefer to focus your time in just one area, check out our guide to the Luberon . We hope our south of France travel itinerary will help streamline your planning and you have an amazing south of France road trip!

24 Stunning Stops for Your South of France Road Trip Itinerary:

Covering the highlights of provence and the french riviera, this post contains affiliate links.

The perfect 10 day south of France itinerary:

A few notes before we get started:.

This south of France road trip itinerary starts off in Provence and ends in the French Riviera. We’ve laid it out this way assuming that you are flying in and out of Nice. We find it most time efficient to fly into Nice, rent a car at the airport, have a home base in the Luberon to explore Provence, and finally enjoy the French Riviera before departing out of the Nice airport. You can of course do this the opposite way; this is just our opinion.

For the purposes of this south of France itinerary, we’ve used L’Isle Sur La Sorgue { read why we feel this is the best home base in Provence } as the home base in Provence and Nice as the home base in the French Riviera. Even if it meant more driving, we preferred having a home base because it really helped us get to know the area we were staying in, we were able to pretend to be locals by having a routine in the area, and we preferred the convenience of not moving around too many times.

We’ve arranged the days to space out the longer driving days with shorter drives days. Feel free to rearrange the days to fit your needs, as well as accommodate for the market days whenever possible

This south of France itinerary is a slightly hectic schedule to fit in the most possible. The beauty of the south of France, especially Provence, is the slow pace lifestyle and the relaxation. Feel free to skip cities {even if they are major ones!} so you can truly relax and enjoy the magic of the south of France. We’ve included all the best places to visit in the south of France, but pick and choose what works for you and your itinerary. 

This south of France itinerary focuses more on Provence than the French Riviera. This is just the part of the south of France that we preferred. With only 10 days, you will most likely be heavier in one portion of the south of France than the other. It is difficult to see both Provence and the French Riviera thoroughly in 10 days.

If you have longer than 10 days to spend in the south of France {lucky you!}, you can definitely spend more time in each of the towns we’ve included. There are plenty more towns you can add as well! This book lists all the towns that are designated the prettiest towns in France and will give you some good ideas!

It goes without saying that wandering is the top things to do at any of the recommended towns, but we’ve also included a few points of interest as well. Please take your time to slow down and wander as much as possible! That’s really how you’ll experience the magic of the south of France. It’s really not about hitting a specific list of sites, it’s more about discovering each town and village

We hope our sample south of France road trip itinerary helps you create the perfect itinerary for your own south of France vacation! Here are the best places to visit in the south of France!

South of France Road Trip Day 1: Nice to L’Isle Sur La Sorgue {possible stop in Cassis}

Estimated Drive Time (I’sle Sur La Sorgue only}: 2 hours, 30 minutes

Estimated Drive Time (with stop in Cassis}: 3 hours, 30 minutes

Arrival day! The south of France itinerary starts in Nice!

Most likely you will arrive in Nice and drive to L’Isle Sur La Sorgue, where you’ll be staying as your home base for the Provence portion of the trip. If you’re coming from another part of France like we did, you can also just drive straight to L’Isle Sur La Sorgue. ( Here’s why we recommend staying in L’Isle Sur La Sorgue ) If you prefer staying somewhere else, Saint Remy is another great choice. 

| search accommodations in L’Isle Sur La Sorgue | search accomodations in Saint Remy | 

If you land in the morning and have a full day ahead, you can stop in Cassis for a few hours before heading to L’Isle Sur La Sorgue. Cassis is a gorgeous sea front town that you can easily spend 1-2 days at. With a rushed south of France itinerary like this, a half day should be okay. That was all we had and without partaking in any water activities, it was enough time to explore the town. Every little corner of this seafront town is absolutely gorgeous! We couldn’t stop taking photos!

Things to do in Cassis:

• Hike Calanques de Cassis (bring comfortable shoes if you want to hike)
• Try Creme de Cassis (a liquor made from blackcurrant. I especially adore it in a Kir Royale , champagne with creme de cassis)
• Check out the view from Cap Canaille

South of France Road Trip Day 2: L’Isle Sur La Sorgue + Fontaine de Vaucluse

Estimated Round Trip Drive Time:  30 minutes

We highly recommend spending a full day exploring your home base of L’Isle Sur La Sorgue. You can also fit in a few hours at the nearby village of Fontaine de Vaucluse. If at all possible with your south of France itinerary, have your L’Isle Sur La Sorgue day be on a Sunday, as the whole town turns into a giant food and antique market. It’s quite an experience and what the town is famous for! If there’s no way you can be there on a Sunday, there are antique markets all week, you just don’t see the whole town turn into one.

Things to do in L’Isle Sur La Sorgue:

• Antique market –  there are small stores all week, but on Sundays the entire town turns into one big antique market
• Dinner at Le Vivier – Located in a nondescript shopping center, it was one of our favorite meals during our south of France vacation and very affordable for such a nice dinner. We had the best bottle of wine of our whole France trip here
• Check out our L’Isle Sur la Sorgue guide for more

For more on L’Isle Sur La Sorgue, check out this guide 

South of France Road Trip Day 3: Oppede, Menerbes, and Bonniuex

Day 3 of our south of France itinerary has you exploring the villages of Oppede, Menerbes, and Bonniuex in the Luberon region of Provence. The villages are small enough that you can experience all of them in a single day.

Our day was a bit rushed for a few reasons: we took way too much time taking photos in Oppede, we had a 3 hour lunch in Bonniuex, and we went in the fall when the days are shorter.

If you have room in your itinerary and like to take a slower pace, you could do Oppede and Menerbes in a day and spend an entire day in Bonnieux. This will allow you a leisurely pace. If you don’t have time, you can do all 3 in a day.

An old village dating back to the 12th century with picturesque cobbled streets and plenty of french blue shutter windows. It’s so incredibly charming! It’s a very quiet town and perfect to explore for just an hour or two. You really don’t need much time here because it’s so small, but we spent several hours wandering around because every single corner is just so pretty and charming. 

Park your car at the entrance, which is considered the “new village” and walk to the “old village”. 

Things to do in Oppede:

• The Old Village –  Ruins of the castle and several chapels. It’s a beautiful walk with with lots of Roman ruins and historic charm
• Grab a small bite at Le Petite Cafe –  If it’s open while you’re there, this is a very cute, colorful, and whimsical spot to sit for a bite to eat

Another impossibly charming town full of french blue shutter windows. We felt we were walking on a movie set. Menerbes is named one of the most beautiful villages in France and you’ll easily be able to see why. Most of Peter Mayle’s stories take place in Menerbes and he lived just outside of the village for most of his time in Provence.

Things to do in Menerbes:

• Truffles and wine at Maison de la Truffle et du Vin –  An amazing spot to try local truffles and sample some delicious wine of the region
• Castellet –  A beautiful 15th century fortress

Built on a plateau above the valley, Bonniuex has some of the best views in the region. We think this is one of the villages you can’t miss. From the picturesque cobblestone streets and the amazing views to the fabulous dining and the fantastic market, Bonnieux offers so much Provencal charm for day 3 of your south of France itinerary.

Things to do in Bonnieux:

• Vieille-Eglise-de-Bonnieux –  A 12th century church and the landmark of the town. Climb up to the top for a stunning view of the valley
• Friday Market –  The Bonnieux market may be one of the best in the Luberon
• Wine tasting at Chateau la Canorgue –  The gorgeous winery where “The Good Year” was filmed

If you run out of time and want to do Bonnieux another day, you can also add Lacoste or Maubec to that day!

For more detailed information on these villages, check out our post on the Luberon

South of France Road Trip Day 4: Uzes

Estimated Round Trip Drive Time: 2 hours, 30 minutes

Day 4 of the south of France itinerary takes you to the white stone town of Uzes. Wandering around Uzes feels like you’ve discovered a hidden little town. We weren’t expecting much and were planning to only spend a few hours there, but we ended up spending the entire day because we found the 12th century architecture and cobblestone streets so charming. If you think you’ll move at a quicker pace, you can add a quick stop in Uzes to a longer day in Avignon. 

Things to do in Uzes:

• Market –  On Saturdays and Wednesdays. The largest market is on Saturdays and is full of musicians!
• Ice cream at La Fabrique Givree – They offer seasonal and exotic flavors with ingredients imported from all over the world. We enjoyed a 6 scoop tasting platter for $7
• Historic area – Wander around and check out the Medieval Garden, the Fenestrelle tower, and the Cathedral of Saint Théodorit
• Place aux Herbes – the main square of the town. You’ll find plenty of shops and restaurants. This is a good spot for lunch or pre dinner drinks. You’ll want to go elsewhere for dinner. I purchased handmade little porcupines that have spots for toothpicks on their backs to use for serving. So cute and unique! 
• Musée du Bonbon – A candy museum! 
• St Quentin la Poterie – A nearby ceramic producing village with plenty of stores at wholesale prices. You can get much better deals here than at the shops in Place aux Herbes

South of France Road Trip Day 5: Avignon

Estimated Round Trip Drive Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Day 5 of the south of France itinerary is in one of the largest towns in the south of France: Avignon. The main attraction is the Papal Palace which towers over the town and there’s also plenty of arts, shopping, and culture. It’s a bustling student town, with lots of activity going on at all times.

I will be very honest, Avignon was not our favorite stop on our South of France road trip; we much preferred the smaller towns. That being said, visit and judge it for yourself, as it’s an extremely popular town in the South of France. We’ll be visiting again later this year to give it a second try. 

Things to do in Avignon:

• Palais des Papes – A UNESCO World Heritage Site that was built to house the popes who fled Rome in the 14th century. You can admire it from the outside or explore the rooms that are open to visitors
• Walk along Pont Saint-Bénézet – Legend has it the bridge was built by a 12 year old shepherd who was instructed by angels to build the bridge in 1177 and was given super human strength to raise a large rock to use for the construction
• Les Halles Market – A large food hall filled with a large range of vendors. This is the perfect spot to grab supplies for a picnic! It’s open every day except Monday from 6am – 2pm. 
• Explore the old city – Avignon’s old town is surrounded by 2.5 miles of 14th-century stone walls. It’s the perfect place to wander!

South of France Road Trip Day 6: Rousillon and Gordes

Estimated Round Trip Drive Time: 1 hour, 6 minutes

Day 6 of our South of France itinerary has you exploring two of our favorite towns: Roussillon and Gordes. Both of them are on “ Les Plus Beaux Villages “,  a list of the prettiest villages in France. Because Roussillon is such a small town, you can explore it the same day as Gordes. If we had more time, we would’ve spent a full day in each one because we loved both so much!

As Marie Mauron famously said, “Who wouldn’t love Roussillon, if they love light, color, ardor, vast horizons and that pristine peace of the starry southern nights?” The entire village appears to be sun soaked in a myriad of orange, red, and dusty pink hues. It’s so incredibly gorgeous and has long attracted artists. This is a must visit on your south of France vacation.

Things to do in Roussillon:

• Les Sentier des Ocres –  This looped walk offering beautiful panoramic views. There is a 30 minute loop and a 50 minute loop, depending what you have time for. You’ll also get to see the ochre the village is famous for and what gives it the beautiful orange and red hues. The ochre deposits in Roussillon are the largest in the world!
• Art Galleries –  Roussillon is full of art galleries and has long been home to many artists. You may see the artists at work in their galleries; many of them creating their masterpieces with pigments from the village
• Read our full guide to Roussillon

Gordes just may be the South of France’s crown jewel. The drive to Gordes is stunning, as is the whole village and the views from its hilltops. The entire village is made from stone, even the gates! Just outside of Gordes is the picturesque Senanque Abbey, which was made famous by its stunning lavender fields.

Things to do in Gordes:

• Senanque Abbey –  12th century monastery with beautiful lavender fields in the summer. Stop by to view the gorgeous property even if the lavender isn’t in bloom
• Dining at Les Bories –  This was one of our favorite dinners on our south of France Road trip
• Read more about Gordes here

South of France Road Trip Day 7 (Option 1): Baux de Provence and Saint Remy de Provence

Estimated Round Trip Drive Time: 1 hour, 44 minutes

If you choose this itinerary for day 7 of your south of France trip, you’ll visit one of Bassam’s favorite villages: Baux de Provence. It’s small enough that you’ll only need a few hours, so you can visit Saint Remy de Provence after. If you move at a quick pace, you can also stop by Arles. 

Baux de Provence:

Baux de Provence is a picturesque medieval village at a fortified rocky site between Arles and Saint Remy. It receives 1.5 million visitors a year, while only containing 22 residents. It’s busy pretty much year around, but off season is a lot lighter. We don’t recommend going in the summer if you prefer to avoid crowds. 

Things to do in Baux de Provence:

• Wander Les Baux Village  – The medieval village is absolutely beautiful to explore and you’ll come across candy shops, souvenir shops, and some food vendors. Plan to spend 1-3 hours exploring
• Visit Chateau des Baux – A clifftop castle that was largely destroyed on 1633. There are maze like ruins and crumbling towers that you can explore and a wonderful view. During the summer, there are all kinds of medieval themed events
• Dinner at Oustau de Baumaniere – A 2 Michelin star restaurant with wonderful reviews 

Check out our quick guide to Baux de Provence

Saint Remy de Provence:

Saint Remy de Provence is a charming village where Van Gogh committed himself for psychiatric treatment and produced some of his best work while institutionalized. It’s best known for the Roman ruins that lay close by and it’s bustling art and food scene.

Things to do in Saint Remy de Provence:

• Dine – There is tons of great dining in Saint Remy, including two Michelin star restaurants:  La Maison Jaune and La Maison a Bournissac. We ate at a more causal and lower priced, but delicious, restaurant: L’Aile ou la Cuisse
• Art – You can visit the instutition Van Gogh was treated it,  St. Paul de Mausole   and visit his room (which still has paint on the floor). You can also walk the grounds which inspired some of his work. There are also plenty of art galleries and two museums: Le Musee des Alpilles and Musee Estrine
• Festivals – Saint Remy de Provence is home to festivals year around, including art, jazz, and wine festivals. Check out what’s going on the time of year you visit

South of France Road Trip Day 7 (Option 2): Cassis and La Ciotat

Another option for Day 7 for your south of France itinerary is to visit the seaside towns of Cassis and La Ciotat, if you didn’t already visit Cassis on your arrival day. If you did already visit Cassis and you want to visit another seaside town along with La Ciotat, you can do Marseilles. 

South of France Road Trip Day 7 (Option 3): Apt & Lacoste 

A third option for Day 7 of your south of France itinerary is to visit Apt. This was a town that we had heard wonderful things about, but we weren’t able to fit into our own south of France trip. It’s on our list to visit next month and we’ll be sure to update our post after.

Apt is best known for it’s giant market, so be sure to plan your visit on market day. 

South of France Road Trip Day 7 (Option 4): French Riviera

If you’d like to spend more time in the French Riviera, head there a day earlier so you can explore an extra town.

South of France Road Trip Day 8: Drive to Nice and spend the day in Nice

The rest of the south of France itinerary has you based in Nice to explore the French Riviera! If this isn’t enough French Riviera for you on your south of France vacation, we’ve included an alternate itinerary that is more heavily based in the French Riviera than this one.

Nice is the perfect home base for you to stay while in the French Rivera. Being the largest city, it has plenty of options for accommodations and is centrally located to all the towns you may want to explore. 

Things to do in Nice:

• Try socca – Chickpea crepes that Nice is famous for. You can purchase them from any street vendor, but we tried an upscale version at L’Atelier (a small husband and wife owned Michelin recommended restaurant) and loved it!
• Dine on Salade Nicoise – You may have had a Nicoise salad before, but since it originated in Nice, we suggest having it for lunch with a glass of rose. A classic Nice lunch! You can also get it as a sandwich if you prefer
• Wander in Vieux Nice (Old Nice) – Truly the most charming part of Nice! We spent the majority of our time wandering here. It’s full of beautiful architecture and pastel colored buildings. At the center is Place Rossetti, which is the town square and offers plenty of dining options
• Plage Beau Rivage Beach Club – The iconic Nice beach club that’s full of blue and white stripe umbrellas. Even if you don’t want to spend time at the beach, pass by here as the umbrellas make for a very pretty sight. The boardwalk near the beach club is a wonderful spot to watch the sunset!

South of France Road Trip Day 9: Nice

For Day 9 of our south of France road trip itinerary, we’ve suggested a second day in Nice. We don’t feel one day is enough to see Nice. If you felt you got enough the day prior, you can easy add a visit to another French Riviera town on this day

South of France Road Trip Day 10: French Riviera Town of choice

There are so many amazing towns in the French Riviera to choose for the last day of your south of France itinerary. We’ve made a few suggestions, but choose whatever sounds best to you. We chose the medieval town of Eze for our final day and we absolutely loved it.

On our upcoming trip we will be visiting Grimaud, St. Tropez, Villefrance-sur-mer, Menton, and Antibes. We’ll be sure to update this post after our trip with photos and tips. 

We absolutely loved the medieval town of, Eze. It’s perched over the coast and offers a spectacular view. Walking around the cobblestone streets of Eze, we felt we had taken a step back in time and we also completely lost track of time. While it’s a small village, there’s so much beauty. It’s well worth adding to your south of France itinerary! 

Highlights include:

• The Botanical Garden (Jardin Exotique d’Eze)
• The restaurant terrace of Chateau Eza – The panoramic views are incredible. We relaxed for hours here over a glass of rose and some snacks
• Check out our full guide to Eze here

Monaco is not technically part of France, but it’s a tiny independent city state on France’s coastline. It’s honestly not my favorite town in the French Riviera, but worthwhile to add to your south of France itinerary if the glitz and glamour reputation of the city intrigues you. The entire town is only 2 square kilometers (.78 square miles).

• Princess Grace’s rose garden
• Prince’s Palace
• Museum of Antique Automobiles. 

Antibes is known for its maze like Old Town that’s enclosed by 16th century ramparts. There are so many winding cobblestone streets to get lost in and a great nightlife and dining scene. 

Cannes is a smaller town in the French Riviera, but very lively and full of great nightlife and dining. You may have heard of the Cannes Film Festival, but the town is wonderful to explore any time of year.

One of the liveliest and most popular towns in the French Riviera. This is a great town for shopping, nightlife, and dining, with charming cobblestone streets that characterize all of the the south of France. It has a reputation for glitz and glamour, but we’ve heard it also has a surprising laid back vibe as well.

Grimaud is a small village near St. Tropez that’s full of color and charm. If you visit in the spring or early summer, the entire village will be full of winding colorful flowers. It looks so incredibly pretty!

Villefranche-sur-Mer

The brightly colored coastal town of Villefranche-sur-Mer looks so incredibly charming! It seems like the perfect blend of beach and city. The beach looks beautiful and the town is full of candy colored buildings and charming cobbled streets. We are so incredibly excited to visit on our next trip!

Menton isn’t one of the most popular towns in the French Riviera, but it’s one that has really piqued my interest and been high on my list to visit. It’s known for it’s oranges and lemons which grow year around, so I have visions of wearing a lemon print dress and drinking frozen lemonade, haha! Their annual lemon festival is always a huge deal and people come from all over to attend.

The medieval streets which were founded by pirates (!!) look so cute and charming. Because it’s not one of the hyped French Riviera towns, it usually doesn’t get too crowded in Menton. If you’re traveling during busy season, that might be reason enough to add Menton to your south of France itinerary!

Alternate South of France Itinerary:

If you prefer to spend more time in the French Riviera:

Since the other south of France itinerary was more heavily based in Provence, this south of France itinerary is more heavily based in the French Rivera. 

South of France Trip Day 1:  Head to L’Isle Sur La Sorgue or wherever your home base in Provence will be. If you have time to visit a town on your arrival day, stop in Cassis and La Ciotat on your way from Nice to L’Isle Sur La Sorgue, it’s a quick detour on the route

Sleep anywhere in the Luberon, we recommend L’Isle Sur La Sorgue

South of France Trip Day 2: L’Isle Sur La Sorgue (preferably on a Sunday)

Sleep anywhere in the Luberon

South of France Trip Day 3: Oppede, Menerbes, Bonniuex

South of France Trip Day 4: Rousillon and Gordes

South of France Trip Day 5: Avignon, Apt, or Aix-en-Provence

Head to Nice, that’s where your home base in the French Riviera will be. On your way, spend the day in either Avignon, Apt, or Aix-en-Provence.

Sleep in Nice

South of France Trip Day 6: Nice 

Full day in Nice

South of France Trip Day 7: Nice + Eze 

If you prefer not to spend a second day in Nice, you can substitute this day with another French Riviera town. We feel one day is not enough to explore Nice, which is why we’ve allowed for a second day on this south of France itinerary.

Since you also explored Nice the day before, you can also spend a half day in Eze.

South of France Trip Day 8:  Grimaud and St. Tropez

While it is doable to explore both Grimaud and St. Tropez in the same day, it will be a fast paced schedule. If you have the time, you can easily spend a full day at each. We suggested starting the day in Grimaud as St. Tropez will have better dining options.

South of France Trip Day 9: Antibes

South of France Trip Day 10: Villefranche-sur-Mer and Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

You can totally spend the whole day just relaxing and exploring Villefranche-sur-Mer; there’s plenty there to keep your interest. If you prefer to maximize the day and see more, you can also add a morning visit to Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, a pink villa from the 1900s. It’s only about 10 minutes away and you won’t need more than about two hours there. 

Sleep in Nice or head home

Things to know for south of France travel:

Best time of year for a south of france itinerary:.

We are such south of France lovers that we would say, ANYTIME! Each season offers its own unique magic. If we had to choose, our first choice for a South of France road trip would be spring and our second choice would be fall. Here are some factors to consider when deciding which season is best for your south of France road trip:

If you’ve been to the south of France before, visiting again in the winter would be a delightful new experience, but I wouldn’t recommend it as your first or only experience

PROS: The lowest prices of the year for south of France holiday hotels and apartment rentals. Christmas Markets!

CONS: Some of the villages may be closed or partially closed, especially around the holidays. Some snow, but that could be also be magical and not necessarily a con. Limited outdoor dining and limited produce in the market. This is not necessarily a con, it’s just a different way to experience the south of France. It seems like a really beautiful experience, I would just say, don’t have it be your ONLY south of France travel experience.

It’s majorly on our bucket list to go in the spring, as everything we’ve heard about the south of France in the spring sounds like an absolute dream. We are planning to go in the spring this year for our anniversary and CAN’T WAIT!

PROS:  Wildflowers and poppy fields. The famed French asparagus and strawberries in the market {the locals wait all year for this!} Time to start dining outdoors again. The spring is said to be the time the region reawakens and locals are re-energized after a long winter. The villages are positively buzzing with energy and beauty. The days are starting to get longer and you get those glorious 9pm sunsets toward the end of the spring season.

CONS: None, other than a few lingering mistral winds. More on those later.

Personally, we would love to visit Provence in the summer mainly to see the lavender and sunflower fields, but we worry the relaxed pace of life we loved so much when we visited wouldn’t be the same due to the crowds and tourism

PROS:  Lavender fields, sunflower fields, long sunny days, gorgeous 9pm sunsets, lots of amazing produce available at the markets, tons of art and music festivals. The region is said to come alive in the summer. June is a great time to go because it’s not unbearably hot yet. Early June is also the least crowded portion of the summer.

CONS:  Crowded and full of tourists from around the world on their own south of France holiday, more expensive, difficult to book great accommodations and restaurants. Traffic and higher tolls on toll roads.

We went in the fall and although it was our second choice, we still felt it was a great time for south of France travel! We’d recommend it to others and we’d do it again!

PROS: Shoulder season, which means less crowds and it’s much easier to get good dining reservations and great hotels at decent prices. The days start to shorten, but they are still relatively warm and sunny. This is the time for the grape harvest!

CONS: Other than the days being slightly shorter and the blowing mistral winds, nothing! We loved fall in the south of France!

How to get to the south of France:

We drove from Paris to the south of France as we were enjoying a beautiful three week France road trip. If you aren’t planning on driving from Paris to the south of France {which takes about 7 hours}, there are a few easier ways to get there. The region is best navigated by car, so whichever option you choose, we do highly recommend renting a car for your south of France itinerary. Public transportation is limited in the south of France. It is doable, but you’ll need to stick to the larger towns.

Getting to the South of France From Paris:

By Train –  Take the train to Nice, Avignon or Marseille

By Plane –  Fly into Nice, Avignon, or Aix en Provence

Getting to the South of France From Some European Countries:

By Plane –  There is a small airport you can fly into in Avignon, a small airport in Aix en Provence, and a larger airport in Nice

By Train – You can take the Eurostar to Marseille, Nice, or Avignon

Getting to the South of France from outside of Europe:

By Plane –  There is an international airport in Nice you can fly into. If flights are expensive, it may be more cost effective to fly into Paris then book a separate flight to Nice, Avignon, or Aix en Provence. You can also take a train

Things to know when driving on your South of France road trip:

1. Expect lots of toll roads

We were surprised by how many toll roads we encountered during our south of France road trip! You can avoid them by taking country roads, but we chose the toll roads because they were faster and better maintained. During our fall trip, toll roads were anywhere from $3 to $25. In the summer, toll prices are much higher. 

You’ll see two different toll booth entrances: one with a speed listed and one without. The one with a speed listed is for those with a toll pass; they can drive right through. You most likely do not have this and will want to take the entrance without a speed listed and prepare to stop at the booth.

If you prefer to take the country roads and have the time to do so, you’ll have the advantage of passing by beautiful vineyards and smaller villages that you wouldn’t have seen on the toll roads.

2. Don’t base travel time on mileage

Travel time can often be unpredictable in the south of France. Google Maps was pretty spot on with their estimations, so we checked the travel time on there before each drive. Mileage isn’t a good indicator of travel time because there can often be traffic, especially if you go during high season. In some towns, the roads are very small and windy, which can lead to traffic delays.

We highly encourage going into your south of France trip with a mindset of relaxation and patience. Whether it’s with driving or dining, you’re bound to experience some unexpected delays or slowness, so just go with it and see it all as part of the adventure! 

3. Save Google Maps offline

You may not always have access to wifi and most of the rental cars do not include navigation. We saved all of the stops we wanted to go to on Google Maps offline so we would always have access to it.

We recommend saving every single town you are interested in, even if you don’t have time to visit them all. You never know what you may be able to fit into your south of France itinerary or where you’ll be passing by.

We highly recommend this book to choose a list of towns to add to your south of France itinerary. 

4. Beware of speeding tickets on your south of France road trip

Take the speed limit signs very seriously! Most rental cars will also tell you the speed limit inside your car. There are radars all over the highways and if you are speeding, you can expect to be mailed a ticket to your house. We received 4 (!!!) speeding tickets, even though I warned Bassam about this!

Because of the stringent speeding laws and the relaxed nature of the French, you’ll notice that the drivers in the south of France (with the exception of Nice!) are relatively relaxed. This was especially noticeable to us because drivers in Los Angeles (where we live) tend to have road rage. As soon as we crossed over to Italy, we noticed how much faster Italians drive. We also noticed the drivers in Nice to be a little more aggressive; they don’t seem to follow many driving rules there.

5. Be specific about the kind of car you rent for your south of France road trip

Most of the cars in France are stick shift. If you are comfortable driving stick, you’ll have more choices in terms of rental cars. If not, you can rent an automatic car, they are just a bit more expensive and you’ll have fewer options of cars to rent. If you need an automatic car and your south of France trip is during high season, make sure to book your car well in advance. 

Most of the cars in France are smaller than American cars. You’ll want to take this into account with how much luggage you bring along with you. Some rental companies will have larger cars available, but we don’t recommend going too large because you’ll have a difficult time finding parking. In addition, the smaller cars are easier to navigate on windy cliff roads in the French Riviera. 

6. Fill up with Diesal

Almost all of the cars in France take Diesal gas. You’ll see this at the gas station listed as either “Diesal” or “gazole”, they mean the same thing.

7. Driving requirements

In order to drive during your south of France vacation you’ll need:

• A drivers license-  If you are staying in France for less than 90 days, you can drive with a valid US or EU drivers license. We aren’t sure about other countries. It’s recommended for Americans to obtain an International Driving Permit, from the American Automobile Association. It provides a translation of your license. We didn’t get one for our south of France road trip and our rental car company said it was fine
• A Passport-  Be sure to have it on you
• Proof of insurance and vehicle registration-  Proof of insurance is necessary. Most credit card companies offer car insurance, so check with them. If not, you can get it from your car rental company. You’ll also need vehicle registration ( carte grise ) with you when you drive.
• Be over the age of 18-  The legal driving age in France

Things to know for your south of France vacation:

1. Understand French etiquette

Understanding and following French etiquette is very important for your South of France vacation. Etiquette is very important to the French, especially in this region. Following some basic etiquette will help you get the best treatment, make friends, and overall enjoy your time as much as possible. The French can often get a bad rap for not being friendly, but we’ve found it’s all in the way you approach them. Following some etiquette and engaging in pleasantries helped us to have a really amazing experience.

Speak in French as much as you can.  We recommend learning a few basic phrases and/or saving them on Google Translate. We noticed the French really appreciated us trying, even if we didn’t get it quite right. If you need to speak in English, first ask IN FRENCH if the person speaks English, before jumping straight into speaking in English

ALWAYS greet shopkeepers when you walk in.  Pleasantries are so important in France and especially in the south. Greeting shopkeepers is a very important rule in France. Not doing so is the equivalent of going into someone’s home and sitting on their couch without greeting them first. Say “bonjour madame or monsieur” (hello ms or sir) when entering and “au revior, merci” (goodbye, thank you) when leaving. Greetings are a very important part of French culture. It signfiies respect and that you are well mannered and going to have a pleasant encounter with the person.

Be cognizant of your speaking volume.  The French tend to speak quieter than Americans do. If you’re an American visiting, you may want to be aware of your speaking volume and be sure it’s not much louder than those around you

It’s socially acceptable to stare at others. People watching is huge in France! You don’t have anything in your teeth if you see people staring at you, so don’t worry! Feel free to stare right back!

Know some basic dining etiquette:

•  Bread goes directly on the table, not on your dinner plate. Some restaurants will offer bread plates if they experience a high volume of tourists, but it’s not customary
• Salad leaves are folded with a fork and knife, never cut
• Always place your napkin on your lap as soon as you’re seated
• Avoid resting your elbows on the table
• Avoid requesting substitution or changes to the way a dish is prepared. It’s considered rude to the chef and they generally will not accommodate you 
• You will get a strange look if you attempt to share your meal with your dining partner and if you don’t finish your meal. At a very nice restaurant, this is considered rude to the chef. This doesn’t mean you need to over eat to be polite! We just want you to be aware so you know why you’re getting a strange look

Being left alone is GOOD service. The waiter typically will not bother you during your meal so that you can enjoy it. They won’t often check on you, will not bring you the check, and will give you time between courses to “rest”. If you need something from the waiter or want the check, flag them down. Try your best not to rush the waiter or chef and never ask for them to bring your food quickly. They will not accommodate your timing. Slow dining is one of the most magical things about the south of France. Make time for dining in your south of France itinerary. Slow down. Savor it. Some of our best memories from our south of France road trip were our meals

Eat during mealtimes. Eating on the street is generally frowned upon, so do your best to sit down to a meal, snack, or beverage. The French don’t really snack between meals, they just have their 3 meals a day and perhaps a midday break for coffee or pre dinner apero (drink and small bite like nuts or olives). In the smaller villages, restaurants will be closed in between mealtimes. You’ll find more flexibility in larger towns, but it’ll mainly be cafes that are open in between mealtimes

The French feel very strongly about their opinions and recommendations.  If they are an expert in the matter, try to take them seriously. They will tell you their opinions in a very straight forward manner and expect to be trusted. If they tell you something isn’t good or doesn’t match, listen! For example, when we visited a fromagerie {cheese shop}, the shopkeeper insisted we couldn’t buy a particular jam because it didn’t match the cheese we were buying. Seeing how agitated he was, we asked for his recommendation, and he instantly became the nicest, most helpful person. This might be outside of your comfort zone, but give it a try. You’ll be surprised at what you might learn and how right they might be!

2. Most shops are closed on Sundays

Most small shops, businesses, and pharmacies are closed on Sunday, ESPECIALLY in the smaller towns. There are also less restaurants open on Sundays. You’ll want to plan ahead by doing your shopping ahead of time and making plans for mealtimes.

3. Getting around within each town

You will most likely not need your car within each town. Most of the towns and villages on your south of France itinerary are very walking friendly. You’ll be able to park your car when you arrive and then just walk, bike, or even Uber in some of the towns. You will need a car to get from town to town. Some towns are accessible by bus, but you’ll be limited to the larger towns.

4. Don’t take no for an answer

One of the most frustrating things we learned about French culture during our south of France road trip is not to take no for an answer. The immediate response you may get to inquiries is often, “no” or “not possible” and it’s almost always possible. Just be polite but firm, don’t back down, and you may get a different response. You’ll also get the best service if you find something to bond over with the person, so make some small talk first. Pleasantries are a very big part of French culture.

5. Expect to slow down

Life in the south of France, especially in Provence, is slow. It’s just the beauty of region. Don’t expect to go and be on a tight schedule. Take the time to slow down. Savor the sights, the tastes, the sounds. Wander. Explore whatever catches your interest. This is where the magic of the south of France lies. In these small little moments, when you take the time to explore and immerse yourself in the experience. The south of France truly is a delight for all senses. Take the time to enjoy it all.

We got a lesson in this on our very first night. We went into a cheese shop right at closing time and were prepared to rush as to “be polite” and not keep the shopkeeper past closing. She refused to let us rush and has us try all the cheeses and tell her what we thought of them before she would let us choose. A line built up behind us and she still took her time with us.

We noticed this across the board in the shops we visited. Shopkeepers will give you their undivided attention, regardless of what the line behind you is like. The people waiting in line are very patient, because they know that when it’s their turn, the shopkeeper will also be spending a lot of time with them.

The only people we saw get frustrated by this were non French tourists. We had several experiences where non French tourists were frustrated by having to wait and loudly huffed and puffed before stomping off. Each time it happened we apologized to the shop keeper and each time they told us not to worry about it, if those people didn’t want to wait then it’s too bad for them.

Another lesson to learn here: the customer is not always right in France. People will give you whatever they feel is the best service to them and they don’t really care what you think about it. They are more committed to being themselves and doing what they feel is right than customer satisfaction. I know that doesn’t really sound good, but we actually found it to be very refreshing.

6. The Mistral winds are a real thing

We heard so much about the Mistral winds before we went but we were still surprised by how truly strong they were. It was windy for the entire duration of our south of France road trip, but one day they were especially forceful and we had a difficult time being outside. We felt like we could actually be lifted away! The Mistral winds are especially strong in the winter and spring, although we felt them in the fall.

You’ll want to pay attention to wind speed when planning your outfit for the day. Even if the temperature is mild, high wind speeds can make it feel much closer. You’ll want to bring a few extra layers for when the winds pick up. 

7. Try to base your south of France itinerary around market days

Each town in the south of France has a specific market day or two each week. We highly recommend planning your south of France itinerary in a way where you see at least two markets. They are all very different and wonderful in their own special way. We’ve made a note in the itinerary of which markets you should prioritize seeing. 

One of our absolute favorite memories from our south of France road trip was visiting the local markets, buying all kinds of fresh produce, and coming back to our rental apartment to cook our own French meal. The produce in France is seasonal and so incredibly delicious. You’ve never tried a tomato until you try an in season tomato in Provence. Trust me on this. After coming back home, we missed this routine so much that we started going to our local farmers market weekly. (Further Reading: Life Lessons Learned After Traveling in France )

Books to read before your south of France trip

My Twenty-Five Years in Provence // Peter Mayle

Peter Mayle is the king of Provence memoirs. If you haven’t read any of his books, they are a must!

Markets of Provence: Food, Antiques, Crafts, and More // Marjorie Williams

A gorgeous pocket size guide to all the best markets in Provence. Filled with beautiful illustrations, maps, and tips to shopping the markets during your south of France road trip

The Most Beautiful Villages of France: The Official Guide // Les Plus Beaux Villages De France Assoc.

The offical guide book to all the most beautiful villages in France. While the photography is sometimes not the greatest, it’s an extremely helpful book and will help you add so many amazing villages to your list

Picnic in Provence // Elizabeth Bard

This book describes my dreams. The author writes about her life as she falls in love in Paris and her little family moves to Provence and opens an ice cream shop. Ever since visiting Provence and reading the book, I don’t stop talking about one day moving to Provence. Although she’s realistic about the ups and downs, it all sounds just magical!

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Okay, whew! We know that was a lot of information. Feel free to ask us if you have any further questions. We hope this south of France itinerary helps you plan an epic south of France vacation! It’s one of our favorite places in the world and we hope you will enjoy it as much as we did!

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April 5, 2019 at 10:00 pm

This guide is absolutely superb. Such detailed and comprehensive guide, it feels I am almost travelling along. Stunning pictures.

April 5, 2019 at 10:01 pm

I’m so glad you liked it! It was one of our favorite trips!

April 6, 2019 at 12:28 am

What beautiful photos! Whilst I’ve spent a lot of time in the south-west of France, I’ve never explored Provence and your guide reminds how much I really ought to. Travelling by road and exploring small towns is just the most wonderful thing to do in France and I wholeheartedly agree that visiting on market day makes a place all the more special. Thank you for some great ideas – Gordes and Rousillion have been calling to me for a while, and now even more so!

April 6, 2019 at 12:54 pm

I’m so glad you enjoyed the post! I’m sure you will absolutely love Gordes and Roussillon! I really can’t imagine anyone not, they are such magical villages! I’d love to know what your favorites are in the south-west! We are always looking for new towns to visit.

April 6, 2019 at 4:38 am

Oh my gosh your photos are killing me!!!! We’re starting to look at a semester in Europe so we can take our time and explore a lot of new places- but this makes me want to go right this very second!!! We’ll surely be scheduling enough time for this part of France!!

April 6, 2019 at 12:52 pm

Writing this post actually killed me, haha. I want to be back there so badly! That’s amazing that you’re going to spend a semester in Europe! I hope you have an amazing time and get to spend a lot of time in the south of France!

April 6, 2019 at 6:51 am

As someone who’s done a South of France roadtrip during the winter, I’d absolutely discourage anyone from doing it at the time of the year. Everything was closed and empty and dead. Sure, it was cheaper, but we’d rather be able to eat French food at a restaurant and look at fields that aren’t full of dead lavender bushes and meet people instead of cats 😛 It was so disappointing, but we’re dying to go again in another season because it would be SO beautiful at any other time of the year!

Ah that’s such a bummer! I never recommend people go to Paris or the south of France in the winter ONLY. Paris especially has a lot of awesome pros to visiting in the winter, but not for your first time and only time. From what I’ve heard of the south of France it seems relatively similar? Did you go around the time that you could at least visit Christmas markets? Definitely go back another time! We went very late in the fall season and while things were starting to slow down and close, it was still lovely! Going in the spring this year!

April 6, 2019 at 7:26 am

Thank you for this great guide! All your pictures are STUNNING! I loved your tips about the French language too! Very helpful! I think around 10 days is perfect, and I love all the villages you were able to plan out to see. What was your favorite restaurant?

April 6, 2019 at 12:49 pm

So glad you liked the post! We had the BEST time! That’s so hard to choose. I think it’s a tie between Les Bories in Gordes and Le Vivier in L’Isle Sur la Sorgue!

April 11, 2019 at 2:25 am

Love a good pros and cons list 😍 This guide is so comprehensive. My friends and I did a weekend trip to Marseilles last summer and I wish we had had more time to do more! This makes me want to go back!

April 13, 2019 at 10:37 am

I’m so glad you liked it! I want to go back so badly too! There’s so much to do and see!

April 13, 2019 at 10:45 am

Such a lovely and detailed post!

Xoxo, Laura // afinnontheloose.com

April 13, 2019 at 10:53 am

I’m so glad you liked it! I hope it helps you plan your trip!

April 14, 2019 at 12:46 pm

What dreamy photos! I love the South of France and would include a visit to Renoir’s home in Cagnes-sur-mer as a must do!

April 16, 2019 at 6:10 pm

Oohh will add that to our list!

May 13, 2019 at 5:09 am

May 19, 2019 at 9:35 pm

So glad you liked the post! Definitely Le Vivier and Les Bories. Going back to both when we visit Provence again next week! Also, we are in Italy right now, but Bella Vita is still the best pasta we’ve ever had!

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The Ultimate South of France Itinerary: One Week Road Trip Guide and Map

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Trying to plan out your South of France Itinerary? Here’s how to hit the highlights on a one-week road trip. 

The South of France is heaven on earth. It smells like fresh lavender, has delicious cheese and boasts pristine nature that inspired some of the world’s most renowned artists.

The ideal time of year to visit is in the summer when the lavender and sunflower fields are in bloom. This is also the most in-demand season but thankfully Provence is filled with wide open spaces so it rarely feels crowded. 

The best way to see the region is by renting a car and driving yourself since public transport is sparse between villages and arranged tours don’t allow you to see things at your own schedule. Driving here is easy — you drive on the right side of the road, tolls are automatically billed to your credit card and there’s ample parking outside of the big cities. You can rent a car with just your license and passport. 

The following is a schedule I put together for one week in the South of France, allowing you to hit all the major highlights in record time. You can still follow this itinerary if you go during a different season besides summer but the route won’t be as scenic. It will also be significantly harder to drive on narrow mountain roads come winter. 

Day 1: Arrive in France 

Flying into Paris is likely your most affordable option, so I suggest you start there. You can take a day to acclimate and enjoy the city, perhaps stopping by the Eiffel Tower or going to a museum you haven’t seen before if this is a return visit. 

Another option is to fly into Nice or Marseilles. Choose whichever one gets you there the cheapest since you have a long drive ahead of you either way.

No matter where you fly into, take it easy on the first day and make sure you have lots of energy before you hit the road. 

Day 2: Head to Provence 

From Paris you can catch a high-speed train to Avignon, where you can rent a car. I picked up a car in Avignon and returned it to Nice when the week was over. Avignon is the middle of Provence and makes a great starting point. I passed through the city but you can feel free to explore a little when you arrive. 

If you’re not coming from Paris, you can head straight to Saint Remy de Provence . Once there, I recommend that you go for lunch at Da Peppe , they serve pasta in a cheese wheel that’s orgasmic. 

Afterwards, head to Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole , where Vincent Van Gogh was committed and spent his later years. You can see a model of his room there, the same one featured in the famous painting, “The Bedroom.”

When you’re ready, go south towards Arles. On the way, stop by Carrières de Lumières , a former quarry that projects images of art onto the interior walls, played to music. It is absolutely magical, so much so that the popular Atelier des Lumieres was created in Paris in its image. 

Day 3: Explore Arles 

Arles is where Van Gogh lived and worked for many years, creating more than 300 paintings and drawing. The main draw here is the Van Gogh walking trail , which allows you to visit the real-life places featured in his masterpieces, like the view of the Rhone in starry night over the Rhone and the yellow cafe seen in Cafe Terrace at Night. 

There’s a visitor’s center where you can get a map to do a self-guided tour on your own for €1. If you go at a leisurely pace, it’ll take you roughly half a day. You can also do a guided tour, offered by the Tourism Office on Wednesdays and Saturdays in the late afternoon or take a bike tour of the city. 

RELATED POST: FINDING VAN GOGH IN ARLES ON A SELF-GUIDED ART ROUTE

Day 4: Gordes and Rousillon

The next morning, head from Arles to Gordes to visit the Senanque Abbey . You’ll need to get an early start as the drive over is filled with magnificent sunflower fields and you’ll be tempted to stop every five minutes.

The Senanque Abbey is one of the most photographed places in Provence and is packed with people who want to capture the lavender fields. Aim to be there before 10 a.m. so you can beat the tour buses. 

Next, head to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse . The area is built around a natural spring and is beautiful for just walking around and perusing. When you’re ready, make your way to  Rousillon . This is a unique village with red rock formations that are great for hiking. Hit the road by 3-4 p.m. since you have to drive to Castellane and it’s a long, windy mountain road to get there.

If you have time you can stop by the L’Occitane Factory in Manosque on the way, getting fancy hand lotion straight from the source. 

RELATED POST: VISITING THE SENANQUE ABBEY IN GORDES, FRANCE

Day 5: Castellane

The main reason to go to Castellane is to visit the Gorge du Verdon , widely regarded as the Grand Canyon of Europe. This gorgeous, turquoise river ends in lake called Lac de Sainte Croix . Here, you can rent paddleboat or kayaks and take in the gorgeous setting. This is the perfect activity on a warm summer day.

Those looking for adventure can find different outfitters in Castellane that offer everything from climbing to canyoning. If you visit in the winter, the mountains near the gorge have skiing available. 

RELATED POST: HOW TO VISIT LAC DE SAINTE CROIX IN CASTELLANE, FRANCE

Day 6: Cannes 

Cannes is a resort town on the French Riviera widely known for its international film festival. This is a place to relax after a long week of sightseeing and is a favorite of the rich and famous. Sit in the sun, have a drink and stroll the Promenade de la Croisette .

If you’re a fan of fine fragrances, visit the Musée International de la Parfumerie to see how perfume is made. Cannes offers more by way of shopping and yachting than arts and culture, so if you’re looking for the latter spend a day in Marseilles after Arles instead. 

Day 7: Nice

Finish your week-long road trip in Nice. There are several museums here, including the Matisse Museum , but if it’s a sunny day you won’t want to be indoors. Walk throughout old Nice, with cobblestone streets and pastel-colored buildings.

If you want to be transported to a different destination, check out the Saint Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral. It boasts traditional Russian architecture reminiscent of the famous church in Russia and a collection of national artifacts inside. 

I always take advantage of the opportunity to see Russian art when available since it’s not allowed to leave the country without permission and, as such, is rarely seen outside of Russian borders. 

While there’s no shortage of things to do in Nice , you can also get to Monaco in under an hour by bus or train, knocking out the second smallest country in the world in one afternoon. 

There are many ways that you could mold this itinerary to fit your needs. You could start and end in Nice or Marseilles. You could do it backwards, from the French Riviera heading inwards to Provence. 

You also have the ability to extend your stay at certain places, or cut out cities and attractions altogether. No matter your preferences, the South of France is always a good idea.

Till next time, safe travels!  

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Faith Coates

Wednesday 18th of March 2020

I was headed to France before CV but had to cancel so I get to enjoy it vicariously through your article so I will be prepared for my trip.

Friday 2nd of August 2019

this is very nice and the places are unique from other places most people visit,

Monday 20th of May 2019

As I am French I can confirm that this road trip is very interesting. Thank you for highlighting my beautiful country that is a little tormented now ... Congratulations on this beautiful article!

Jen on a Jet Plane

Saturday 25th of May 2019

I appreciate that Coco, I absolutely fell in love with your country!

Wednesday 27th of March 2019

This is really a great article! I love it when people use Google maps embedded in their blog posts. This makes your blog post such a great ressource when touring around France!

Thursday 28th of March 2019

Thank you Sarah, happy to be of service!

South of France Road Trip: Route, Highlights & Tips

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income.

France hosts more guests than any other country and the south of France is favored for its breathtaking coastal scenes, fresh produce, wine, and medieval towns.

By far the best way to explore this wonderfully diverse region is by renting a car and taking an east-to-west road trip across this iconic part of France.

We’ve spent years touring and road tripping in France, and spent all our holidays in Provence as kids. Get all the information you need, including routes, attractions, places to visit and lots of tips, to help you plan the perfect south of France road trip itinerary.

Where is the South of France?

The south of France, also known as southern France and in French as  le Midi , is a defined geographical area consisting of five regions of France.

Those regions are southern Nouvelle-Aquitaine in the west which borders the Atlantic Ocean, Occitanie in the centre and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur in the southeast, which borders the Mediterranean Sea, and the most southern parts of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes in the northeast.

Our road trip to the south of France starts in lively Nice in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur and ends in the pink city of Toulouse, in northern Occitanie.

Is this your first time visiting France? Get all the information you need in our France Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Getting There

Whether you’re driving to the south of France in a car, motorcycle or campervan, self-driving is absolutely the best way to explore this fantastic southern France road trip route.

You can stop whenever you want, try new activities, visit places you see along the route and have the freedom to change plans at the last minute.

Fly into Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport , called Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur in French. With direct flights from America, Europe, and the UK, we recommend booking through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.

Are you planning to rent a car in France? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a road trip.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in France. We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Use the Park4Night app to find overnight spots and campsites, and sleep on a high mountain pass, next to a beautiful lake, or in a wildflower meadow.

Best Time to Take a French Road Trip

March to may.

Spring is a wonderful time to visit the south of France, with temperatures warming up across the country. Food markets increase in size, restaurants start preparing different dishes and the countryside is glorious. You’ll still find the roads and cities less crowded, and most attractions will be open.

June to August

June and July are the busiest months for south of France road trips. With perfect temperatures for camping and outdoor activities, as well as the legendary Provencal lavender and sunflowers in bloom June is probably the best month, as schools have yet to break up across Europe and the family rush to the coasts has not yet started.

August brings the French annual holidays when many businesses close for the duration. If you’re planning on road tripping in the south of France, you’ll have perfect holiday weather, but the coasts and beaches will be busy.

September to November

Autumn is a fantastic time for French road trips , especially in the south of France. The coast will be quieter but if you’re lucky, you’ll enjoy an Indian summer amongst the grape harvest and the changing colours of the fall countryside.

December to February

The winter months in France can be very cold, but in the south of the country, they remain mild although rain is quite common at this time of year. But, the roads and cities will be quiet and less crowded, although not all attractions will be open.

South of France Road Trip Map & Route

This bucket list one week road trip across the south of France hits all the highlights and key sights, including the iconic lavender fields, ancient Roman architecture, Provencal villages and Mediterranean beaches. We think it has to be one of the best road trips in Europe !

The route will easily stretch to two or even three weeks if you prefer to slow travel and take in more sights as you go. If this is your preference, we suggest adding accommodation for every two stops shown in the itinerary.

• Get the Travel Guides
• Lonely Planet Provence & the Cote d’Azur
• The Rough Guide to Provence & the Côte d’Azur
• DK Eyewitness Family Guide the South of France
• South of France Road Trip Itinerary

Nice – Gorge du Verdon – Saint-Tropez – Cassis – Marseille – Aix-en-Provence – Arles – Montpellier – Narbonne – Carcassonne – Toulouse

• Distance 1000km
• Duration 7-14 days
• Drive Time 21 hours

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

South of France Road Trip Highlights

Nice to verdon gorge.

It is best to arrive in Nice, one of the most captivating cities in France , one to two days earlier to explore the biggest city on the French Riviera. Stroll along the promenade and browse for fresh produce and local snacks at the Cours Saleya market. To see several elite artworks, visit MAMAC (Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain) for some art history.

If you have a few extra days, day trips from Nice can help you see more of this gorgeous part of France. This highly rated day trip to glitzy Monte Carlo in the nearby principality of Monaco makes a fantastic day trip from Nice.

Or, why not squeeze another country into your trip and take this wonderful day trip to the Italian Riviera ? Breathtakingly beautiful (and that’s just the drive!), the towns of Menton and San Remo offer spectacular scenery, delicious food and open-air Italian markets.

Once you’ve thoroughly explored Nice, the first day’s itinerary is the longest, so it’s best to get on the road early. The trip starts from the coast and heads inland towards the interior to explore a medieval town, lavender fields, and Europe’s largest canyon. 

1 hour 45 minutes from Nice

Head from Nice to Entrevaux, a medieval village founded in the 11 th century. Visitors can enter on a drawbridge that leads the way into the old town, with its narrow cobblestone streets and Gothic cathedral.

Go up the hilltop citadel for the best panoramic views of the Var valley below. If it’s July, plan the road trip to coincide with the annual Entrevaux Medieval Festival .

Valensole Plateau

1 hour 45 minutes from Entrevaux

About four minutes into the journey from Entrevaux, beautiful river scenery will appear as you cross the Var Bridge (Ponte Sur Le Var). Don’t miss the small Napoleon Bonaparte statue, about 27 miles from Entrevaux, that will appear on the right-hand side – this road is part of the famous Route Napoleon, one of the best driving roads in Europe , which follows the footsteps of the famous General on his return from exile in Elba, as he headed north for Waterloo.

Once on the Valensole Plateau, stop at the many roadside sites to appreciate the most magnificent lavender fields in the Provence region, which are at their best in June and July. In the small town of Valensole itself, go to Comptoir de Valerie or Brasserie du Plateau to enjoy a nice lunch. 

Verdon Gorge

1 hour 20 minutes from Valensole

From Valensole, take the D6 toRiez, and then the D952 to the stunning Gorge du Verdon, the 765-yard-deep river canyon. If you have time, stop on the way in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a charming Provencal village with a tiny monastery high in the hills behind the town. It’s a bit touristy, but beautiful nonetheless and on most days they have a great farmers market here.

Spend the rest of the day making the most of the Verdon Regional Natural Park, which offers various recreational activities like swimming, hiking, and water sports.  

• Where to Stay in Verdon Gorge

Upmarket: Hotel & Spa des Gorges du Verdon – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hôtel Le Colombier – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Lou Paradou – Booking.com | Agoda

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting France . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Verdon Gorge to St Tropez

The second day’s itinerary requires driving for just over four hours, starting inland and heading toward the coast to explore perfume, art history, and gorgeous beaches. 

1 hour 45 minutes from Verdon Gorge

Drive east towards Grasse, which has UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage status as the perfume capital of the world , and produces more perfume than any other city in the world. Ensure to visit the three leading perfume houses of Fragonard, Galimard, and Molinard, and spend an hour designing your own fragrance with an expert .

Follow the old town’s cobbled streets and visit the Cathédrale Notre Dame du Puy or one of the many museums, like the Villa Musée Jean-Honoré Fragonard . The latter is dedicated to the works of artist Fragonard, not to be mistaken for the perfumer.

35 minutes from Grasse

Make your way southeast towards the coast to Antibes. This ancient, walled beach town was home to Pablo Picasso and is one of the largest marinas in Europe. July is a busy month in Antibes as it hosts the annual Feasts of Our Lady of Bon Port , Bastille Day, and the pottery market.

Visit the Pablo Picasso Museum or the Provencal market. For a hearty lunch, stop by Bistro Chez Jules . If you prefer a more upmarket venue with a scenic view overlooking the ocean, try Maison de Bacon . 

25 minutes from Antibes

A short drive down the coast will bring you to Cannes , one of the more popular spots on the French Riviera. This town is famous for its private beach clubs, luxury shops, gourmet restaurants, and the International Film Festival.  

For those that enjoy people-watching in the hopes of spotting a celebrity, take a walk along the La Croisette promenade. Otherwise, take a stroll through one of Cannes’ oldest neighborhoods, Le Suquet , which dates back to Roman times.  

Saint-Tropez

1 hour 25 minutes from Cannes

Saint Tropez, like Cannes, is a playground for the rich and famous. One can’t believe that it was once merely a humble fishing village. It’s now home to the uber-wealthy, with numerous superyachts and supercars scattered around town. Petrol heads will be delighted to spot a few rare beauties. 

There are so many things to do on the French Riviera , and Saint-Tropez is one of the places to visit. 40 splendid beaches, an atmospheric and Instagrammable old town, a lively port and plenty of great dining spots make Saint-Tropez a wonderful place to spend a day mooching and exploring.

If you have time, head up to the breathtaking hilltop village of Gassin, a few miles south on the Saint-Tropez peninsula. The pretty streets, cute houses, gorgeous boutiques and fabulous restaurants have the most amazing view over the gulf of Saint-Tropez.

• Where to Stay in Saint-Tropez

Upmarket: Villa Cosy, hotel & spa – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel le Mandala – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Lou Cagnard – Booking.com | Agoda

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

St Tropez To Marseille

The third day of the South France itinerary makes up the last stretch of the Côte d’Azur, also known as the French Riviera, which ends in Marseille. The total driving time for the day is approximately 3 hours.

1 hour 15 minutes from St Tropez

The route to Toulon includes a great stop, about 30 minutes outside of Saint-Tropez, where you can explore the beautiful winery of Domaine Clos Du Noyer Mistinguett . It might be too early in the day for a tasting tour – is it ever too early? – but shopping for wine is a must.

Toulon is the third largest city on the coast of southern France, after Nice and Marseille. Take the cable car up Mount Faron for stunning views of the peninsula. Once there, it is worth visiting the Musée Mémorial du Débarquement , a WWII fortress commemorating the allied landing of 1944. 

20 minutes from Toulon

Only a 20 minute drive from Toulon is Bandol, a small seaside town known for its cruise port, wineries, and superb restaurants.

Walk down the Charles de Gaulle pier to enjoy lunch at Auberge Du Port . They make great cocktails and serve traditional French cuisine. Or, for something different, eat right on the sands at Le Sana’beach . 

Cassis & Calanques National Park

1 hour from Bandol

Cassis is a beautiful pastel-painted town which was once a fishing village and now has a gorgeous harbour and small beach.

Cassis is most famous for the Calanques National Park. The Calanques themselves are huge gashes into the cliffs which create incredible deep coves and beaches, full of diverse flora and fauna and perfect for exploring by kayak or boat.

The park has some of the best hiking trails, but one can also tour the area by sea. There are multiple boat trips from Cassis to choose from and a 90 minute excursion will be plenty to enjoy the sights.

If you’re feeling energetic, pack a picnic, hire a sea kayak or paddleboard then head for the sublime Calanque d’En-Vau which is blessed with turquoise waters, a small beach and fantastic snorkelling.

You don’t need any special skills other than being able to swim and move your arms – the 60 to 90 minutes of paddling each way are so worth it!

30 minutes from Cassis

En route to Marseille, about 3.4 miles outside the national park, make sure to stop at the famous Unite d’Habitation . This modernist residential housing complex was designed by Le Corbusier and is a must-see for any architecture enthusiast. 

A 15 minute drive further brings you to Marseille, the biggest port in France. Visit the Notre Dame de la Garde basilica and the Palais Longchamp, which boast beautiful gardens and architecture, along with two museums on the grounds. For something a bit different, an e bike tour of Marseill e means you can discover a lot of the city without getting tired.

For dinner, go to Grand Bar des Goudes , which overlooks the harbour. For a unique experience, find the Chez Ge pizza truck on Boulevard de la Blancarde. A former chef who worked at the Michelin-star restaurant Le Petit Nice owns it and will serve a pizza that will be hard to forget!

• Where to Stay in Marseille

Upmarket: Suite privée du balcon du vieux port Marseille – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Maisons du Monde Hôtel & Suites – Marseille Vieux Port – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Les Appartements du Vieux Port – Booking.com | Agoda

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Motorhoming in France: Your Complete Touring Guide for 2024

La Bambouseraie: How to Visit the Hidden Gem in Anduze

Lac de Gaube – A Breathtaking French Pyrenees Hike

Normandy Road Trip: Ultimate 7 Day Itinerary

Marseille to arles.

The fourth day’s itinerary requires driving for about 3 hours and 20 minutes. It will offer a glimpse into art history, olive oil production, and idyllic old towns with cobblestone roads.

Aix-en-Provence

35 minutes from Marseille

Going back into the interior is the town of Aix-en-Provence. You’ll be charmed by the leafy boulevards and public squares, which are lined with elegant 17th and 18th century buildings. There are fountains everywhere, leading to Aix being known as the “City of a Thousand Fountains”.

Experience some of the best products from the open markets, stroll down the lively Cours Mirabeau, a scenic tree-lined street, or go and see the Saint-Savior Cathedral .

For art lovers, there’s the Tapestry Museum or Atelier de Cézanne to get a first-hand experience of the space Paul Cezanne occupied while creating his masterpieces. 

1 hour 15 minutes from Aix-en-Provence

Deeper inland lies the town of Gordes, one of Provence’s most picturesque small towns. For a unique experience, stop ten minutes before you approach Gordes at Clos des Jeannons , an olive oil mill, for a tasting and to see how olive oil is made.

Upon arrival, dine on an open terrace at L’Artegal or La Trinquette for stunning views. After lunch, stroll through the old town’s cobbled lanes and admire the Gordes Castle and several interesting churches.

45 minutes from Gordes

Avignon offers many activities, especially in the arts and culture scene. During July, the town welcomes the annual Jazz Festival and the Avignon Festival , one of the most significant international contemporary live performance events.  

The sites to explore in Avignon include the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the fortress of Palais des Papes, and Les Halles food market. Finally, go to the town square to see the stunning city hall and opera house.

45 minutes from Avignon

Art lovers can only think of Arles and be reminded of Vincent Van Gogh, which makes a Van Gogh self-guided walking tour a must-do. Visitors can explore sites seen in his paintings, including Cafe du Forum and the Rhone river embankment from where he painted Starry Night over the Rhone . 

If you have time, make a trip to the Camargue Regional Natural Park , south of Arles. The Camargue is a unique place situated between two forks of the Rhône River and is known for its migratory birds, flamingoes, and wild bulls and horses.

• Where to Stay in Arles

Upmarket: L’Hôtel Particulier – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Mas de la Chapelle – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hostellerie De La Source – Booking.com | Agoda

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to France.

Arles To Montpellier 

The fifth day of the southern France itinerary requires little driving, only 2 hours 15 minutes. It will showcase Roman architecture, exquisite gardens, and medieval ruins.

Saint-Gilles du Gard

25 minutes from Arles

Once in Saint-Gilles-du-Gard, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of The Abbey of Saint-Gilles. Saint Gilles founded it in the 7 th century, but after restorations, it resembles 12th century Romanesque architecture.

30 minutes from Saint-Gilles du Gard

Once in Nîmes, step back in time at the  Les Arènes  Roman amphitheatre, which is still used for concerts and celebrations. An open plane is next to the theater showing the breathtaking marble Fontaine Pradier erected in 1851. 

Afterwards, walk through the scenic 18th century garden, Jardins de la Fontaine, before heading to L’Atelier du Sandwich for some sophisticated street food.

To the northeast of Nimes between Remoulins and Vers-Pont du Gard is the Pont du Gard , a famous Roman aqueduct bridge built in the first century CE over the Gardon River, to carry water over 50km to the Roman colony of Nîmes, then called Nemausus.

35 minutes from Nimes

Visitors entering Sommières cross the Vidourle River using an old Roman bridge, the subject of many a tourist photograph. This quaint town has ancient origins seen in its medieval castles and ruined walls.

Be sure to visit the Château de Sommières , the beautiful Eglise Saint Pons church, and the Courtin Chocolatier for a tasty souvenir.

Montpellier

45 minutes from Sommières

Southwest of Sommières is Montpellier, a town that is a mix between modernity and historic charm. Visit the Promenade de Peyrou, the highest part of Montpellier. Other noteworthy sites are the Cathedrale St. Pierre and the arch of Porte du Peyrou.

For dinner, head to Le Réfectoire or Restaurant Ébullition for a Michelin-star experience. Bourbon lovers should also not miss Le Pat’Daniel’s .

• Where to Stay in Montpellier

Upmarket: Mas de Lafeuillade – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Boutique Hotel Maison Bayard – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel d’Aragon – Booking.com | Agoda

Montpellier To Narbonne

The second last day of the road trip will take you further west along the coast of southern France into the Haut-Languedoc. The day includes a 3 hour drive packed with a splendid port, beautiful gardens, and architectural wonders.

Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert

45 minutes from Montpellier

While on the A750, stop at Domaine Croix de Saint-Privat à Aniane for good affordable wine right from the vineyard. This gem is located just over 22 miles from the center of Montpellier.

Stop at Le Pont Du Diable or Devil’s Bridge on the way, for a spot of wild swimming or paddle boarding in the crystal clear Herault River.

Probably the only stop in Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert that is an absolute must is visiting the abbey, the Abbaye de Saint-Guilhem-le-Desert. Forget pictures; this marvel must be experienced in person to take in all its splendor. 

Just up the D4 northbound is the spectacular Gorges d’Heric. Criss-crossing the gushing river Orb as you head north, you’ll pass through small villages where you should stop and visit a cellar or two. Once at the gorge, you can follow the river along the gorge, where you’ll find enormous boulders, small sandy beaches and deep pools of crystal-clear water in which to cool off.

1 hour from Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert

Sète might not be one of the more popular towns in France, but it is worth a stop. Overlooking the Etang de Thau, a string of lagoons that stretch along the French coast from the Rhône River to the foothills of the glorious Pyrenees mountains, Sete boasts a beautiful old port, and the tradition of jousting which makes this town so unique. There is even an annual festival in Sète that celebrates this pastime.

For lunch on an open terrace with a view, dine at L’Essentiel or La Consigne for excellent local cuisine, especially locally caught seafood like squid, mussels and octopus.

45 minutes from Sète

Take a break 36 miles outside of Sète at the Aire de Loupian – Georges Brass rest stop on the A9, an intriguing space with artistic sculptures.

Once in Béziers, it’s a quick stop to explore the Museum du Biterrois to learn more about the town’s history and the Bishops’ Garden , which offers stunning views of the Orb plain.

If you have time, visit the famous Les Neuf Écluses de Fonseranes , the famous staircase of nine locks on the Canal du Midi, a fantastic feat of engineering and fascinating to watch in action.

35 minutes from Beziers

Narbonne is a treasure trove for architecture enthusiasts, with the Archbishop’s Palace, the Fontfroide Abbey, and Gilles Aycelin Donjon to admire. Within the Archbishop’s Palace, you can visit the new Archaeology Museum , which contains artifacts from Narbonne’s medieval, ancient and prehistoric past.

Treat yourself to dinner at Brasserie du Moulin or Bistro Bourget for delicious French cuisine.

• Where to Stay in Narbonne

Upmarket: Hôtel Le Mosaïque – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hôtel Le C – Boutique Hôtel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Fasthotel Narbonne – Booking.com | Agoda

Do you love getting off-the-beaten path? Our secret France guide has ideas for exploring the road less traveled, with alternative destinations to some of France’s most popular places.

Narbonne To Toulouse

The final day of the south France itinerary requires only 2 hours of driving. It has two stops, leaving travelers time to arrive at Toulouse in good time to catch a flight or take a full day for sightseeing.

Carcassonne

45 minutes from Narbonne

Upon arrival in La Cité, it will feel like one is transported 2,500 years back! Visitors should explore the medieval citadel of Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take an hour to admire the fortifications, museum, and basilica or book our recommended small group Carcassonne guided tour .

1 hour 15 minutes from Carcassonne

Keep traveling on the A61 for about 39 miles and stop at Écluse de Gardouch, a quaint little village to stretch one’s legs, taking a walk along the canal. Afterwards, head onwards to Toulouse.

What to do there will depend on your travel itinerary: either continue traveling 15 minutes northwest toward Toulouse Airport or check into your hotel and explore the city. 

Some famous tourist sites include the Japanese Gardens, Science Museum, and the beautiful basilica. If time is plenty, why not take a private walking tour with a local guide ?

Toulouse also has many dining options, including Michelin-star fine dining at Michel Sarran and Troika Royal for something out of the norm.

• Where to Stay in Toulouse

Upmarket: Appart Hôtel Clément Ader – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: The Social Hub Toulouse – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Residhome Toulouse Ponts Jumeaux – Booking.com | Agoda

France Essentials

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in France.

• Search for affordable flights to France with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in France with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in France with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in France with Rentalcars.com
• Best for ferries from UK to France Direct Ferries
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Driving in France Tips

Road trips in France are usually pleasurable, thanks to their extensive and well-maintained autoroute network, and generally good local roads. French drivers can be impatient and are dreadful tailgaters and really, really dislike being overtaken, but, c’est la vie , this is France!

Whether you’re traveling in your own car, touring France in a motorhome or flying in and renting a car, you need to follow these rules when you drive and travel in France;

• You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from France.
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle.
• Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an International Driving Permit for driving in Europe . You can check whether you need an IDP here .
• You must carry at least one reflective jacket within the passenger compartment of your vehicle and must put it on before you get out in an emergency or breakdown situation. You must also carry a warning triangle.
• You may require a Crit’Air sticker which is placed in the windscreen of your vehicle to provide a visible way to identify the level of emissions produced. If you’re renting a vehicle, the Crit’Air sticker should already be on display in the windscreen. Find out more and purchase Crit’Air stickers from the official certificat-air.gouv.fr website.
• On 1 November 2021 the Loi Montage II or ‘mountain law II’ came into force in 48 French mountainous departments within the Alpes, Massif Central, Jura, Pyrénées, and Vosges regions. Anyone travelling in a car or motorhome or through one of these areas between 1 November and 31 March will be obliged to fit four approved winter tyres or carry at least two snow chains or socks in the vehicle.
• French motorways are privately managed and you’re not allowed to request your own assistance company to attend to you if you break down. If you do break down use the orange emergency telephones that are situated every 2km along French motorways to call the police or the official breakdown service operating in that area or dial the emergency services on 112. You will be towed to a safe designated area where you can make onward arrangements for your own breakdown insurer to assist you if you have it. Otherwise, the towing company will be able to provide support or signpost you. 
• You do not need to carry a breathalyser, the law requiring that you do has been repealed.

RELATED POST: Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know

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