provence road trip ideas

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

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

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

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

A woman sitting on a rock, overlooking the dramatic landscape of the Calanques National Park, a top destination on any South of France itinerary

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

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The best time to do this South of France road trip

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

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

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

Green vegetation and limestone cliffs in Calanques National Park on the Mediterranean coast of France

Driving in Provence

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1: Luberon villages and lavender fields

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

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

A panoramic view of the medieval hilltop village of Gordes, a must-visit stop on any Provence road trip itinerary

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

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

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

Roussillon & the Ochre Trail

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

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

An ochre-colored house with blue window shutters in the village of Roussillon, a place that should be on every South of France road trip

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

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

a cliff in various shades of orange on the Ochre Trail near Roussillon village in Provence

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

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

A field with rows of purple lavender in Valensole, a mandatory stop on every Provence road trip

Where to stay

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

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

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

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

Terracotta-colored roofs of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie village, one of the best places in this 5-day South of France itinerary

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

Lake of sainte-croix & verdon gorge.

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

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

The Lake of Sainte-Croix with clear turquoise water and a backdrop of forest-covered hills

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

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

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

A woman sitting on a yellow boat on the river passing through Verdon Gorge, one of the best places to add to your South of France road trip

Route des Crêtes Verdon

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

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

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

A woman standing on a viewing platform overlooking the mountains of the Alps region at Route des Crêtes Verdon

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

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

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

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

Colorful houses and flower-adorned balconies at Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, the most beautiful village to visit on a Provence road trip

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

Day 3: Cascade de Sillans & Saint-Tropez

Cascade de sillans.

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

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

A woman leaning on a railing with the Cascade de Sillans waterfall and its lush vegetation as a backdrop

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

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

A woman sitting on the roots of a tree next to an emerald river at Sillans-la-Cascade in southern France

Saint-Tropez

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

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

Fine sand and crystal clear water at Pampelonne beach near Saint-Tropez, a must-see spot on every Provence road trip

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

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

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

Pastel-colored houses at Saint-Tropez waterfront, an iconic place to add to your South of France itinerary

Spend the night in or near Saint-Tropez.

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

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

Day 4: La Ciotat, Parc du Mugel & Cassis

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

La Ciotat & Parc du Mugel

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

A picturesque old harbor with sailing boats at La Ciotat, a less-known spot to add to your Provence road trip

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

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

The small pebbly Grand Mugel beach surrounded by tall rocks, one of the most unique beaches in this 5-day South of France itinerary

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

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

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

A colorful wooden sailing boat at the busy harbor of Cassis, a popular seaside town in Southern France

Spend the night in Cassis.

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

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

Day 5: Calanques National Park, return to Avignon

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

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

A view over the neon blue water and towering cliffs of Calanque d'En Vau, one of the most beautiful places in this Provence road trip itinerary

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

A woman posing in the clear blue water of the Calanque d'En Vau beach in the South of France

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

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

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

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

5-day Provence road trip map

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

Other places to include in your South of France road trip

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

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

5-day South of France itinerary: Final thoughts

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

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

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

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

Enjoyed reading about this Provence road trip? Pin it!

The perfect Mallorca itinerary: An unforgettable week in Mallorca

Best things to do in Chamonix in the summer

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

Best lakes in France: 11 enchanting lake destinations to visit

Driving the scenic Route des Cretes of Verdon Gorge in France

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

Reflection of Pond du Gard from the river

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.

Exterior of the Pope's Palace in Avignon

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.

South of France Itinerary - Apt Market with Tomatoes

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.

Roussillon village - Things to do in the Luberon

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!).

Kat walking under vines at Chateau la Canorgue

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!

South of France Itinerary - mini meat and cheese cones in Aix en Provence market

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 ?

Streets of Nice France - South of France itinerary

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.

Waterfall at Chateau de Nice - Provence Itinerary

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?

Beach chairs and umbrellas on the beach in Nice

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.
Know the rules of the road. I find this website to be helpful when it comes to driving tips and French road signs . Also, it is a good idea to have an International Driving Permit. I get mine at AAA.
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?

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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!

The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Provence Itinerary

Last Updated on February 19, 2024

by Neota Langley

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

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

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

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Provence?

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

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

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

Getting To & Around Provence

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 to 7-Day Provence Itinerary

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

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

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

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

Day 1 – Aix-en-Provence

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Aix-en-Provence

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

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

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

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

Day 2 – Verdon & Lavender Fields

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3 – Calanques and Cassis

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

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

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

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

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

Coastline in Parc National des Calanques

Day 4 – Luberon Valley Villages

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Avignon

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

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

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

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

Day 5 – Avignon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 6 – Arles & Camargue National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 7 – L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Have More Time?

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

Châteauneuf-du-Pape

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

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

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

Pont Du Gard & Nimes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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About Neota Langley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Me following my own Provence itinerary and catching sunsets like these.

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

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

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

French Riviera & Provence Itinerary

Table of Contents

Southern France Itinerary Priorities

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

✔️ A More Authentic Provençal Vibe .

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

✔️ A Home Base to Explore.

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

✔️ More Time Sightseeing, Less Time Driving.

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

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

✔️ Culture, Nature, and Adventure

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

Saucisson is the national food of France - this and a baguette!

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

10-Day French Riviera & Provence Itinerary

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

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

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

Day 1: Fly Into Nice

🏠 Stay in Nice for 3 nights.

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

Nice is a fantastic place to land and start on your French Riviera and Provence Itinerary.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Nice (3 Nights)

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

Day 2: A Day Along the French Riviera

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

This is Villefranche-sur-Mer, one of the prettier towns on the French Riviera itinerary.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Me at a little cafe in Saint Paul De Vance, a beautiful village in eastern Provence.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 4: La Madrague Coastal Hike (Local Gem)

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

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

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

It took us about 3 hours to do the whole hike.

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Arles (7 nights)

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

Day 5: Arles & Camargue

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

Arles is one of the most beautiful villages in Provence, especially great for a home base.

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

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

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

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

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

Us near the colosseum in Arles where the bullfights happen.

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

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

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

Gordes is one of the more famous and beautiful villages of Provence - here is a picture of the town from a little walking trail nearby.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Isle Sur la Sorgue is a little Venice of France.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lunch usually looks like this if you're following the Provence itinerary.

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

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

Siagnon is a little hidden gem village in Provence, here is the cute town square with the iconic window shutters.

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

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

Day 8: Gorge Du Verdon & Lavender Fields

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

Lavender fields on the Plateau de Valensole.

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

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

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

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is my favorite Provence village.

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

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

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

Pictures from the bridge at the Gorge du Verdon.

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

Day 9: Cooking Lessons In Avignon

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

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

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

View from across the Rhone Rive of Avignon.

Here are the main sites to walk to after lunch:

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

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

Day 10: French Wine & Aix-en-Provence

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visiting Cezanne piece about Provence in London.

Day 11: Fly Home

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

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

Map: French Riviera & Provence Itinerary

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

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

Where To Stay In Provence

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

Where to Stay in Nice

Where to stay in arles.

Luarmarin is one of the most beautiful villages in Provence - all the houses have these green vines growing on the side.

Getting Around Provence

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

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

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

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

✈️ Flying to Provence

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

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

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

🚂 Getting Around Provence By Train

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

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

This is the train in France, pretty comfortable and affordable if you're planning a Provence itinerary.

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

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

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

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

Do I need a car in Provence?

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

One of the best ways to explore Provence is by renting a car.

Travel Tips for Visiting Provence

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

How many days do I need in Provence?

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

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

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

Final Thoughts: A Perfect Provence Itinerary

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

Drinking wine late at night for dinner in Provence.

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

Here’s the best route that optimizes driving time:

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

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

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

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

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Where to stay in provence when traveling by car choosing the best base for road trips in provence.

+ Provence Road Trip Itinerary Ideas to Create Car Travel Routes Around Provence (Including Lavender Fields, Scenic Villages & the Verdon Gorge Experience)

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The key to creating the perfect Provence road trip itinerary when traveling by car is selecting the right base. While the scenic French region boasts numerous sights worth seeing, the journey can easily turn into an exhausting driving marathon, leaving little time to explore historic villages, venture on scenic hikes, or sample the region’s famous cuisine and wine.

Drawing on our personal experience of two self-guided road trips to Provence, we thought we’d offer our insights on where to stay in Provence with a car. In addition to sharing our favorite base for car travelers, we’ll suggest a few alternative options and highlight some must-see sights in each area. We’ll also provide tips and suggestions on driving in Provence and offer some ideas about where to go in the region without a car. We hope our experience proves helpful as you plan your own trip.

Are you looking for a car to rent for your trip around Provence? Check some of the best deals available . Compare prices and book your car in advance to ensure that you have a stress-free experience.

What to do in Provence? Stop by every field and take lots of pictures

Provence Road Trip Itinerary: Things to Know and Things to Expect

Provence is a large and diverse region that stretches from the Rhone River in the west to the Italian border and south to the Mediterranean Sea. It encompasses various regions, including the mountains of Haute Provence and the stunning blue coastline of the French Riviera. While the region is worth exploring, it requires time and meticulous planning.

Sometimes, a more streamlined itinerary is better, depending on the local infrastructure. For example, Cote d’Azur has highways that connect the cities and allow for quick travel between stops. On the other hand, when exploring Haute Provence, Luberon Valley, and other regions, it makes more sense to take local roads because that’s where all of the scenic stops are. However, this also means taking lower speed limits, serpentine roads, and numerous roundabouts into consideration.

Despite the planning required, self-guided driving tours of Provence are undoubtedly worth the effort. Regardless of the route chosen, the scenery changes dramatically several times throughout the trip. You will find yourself driving through small, postcard-like centers of iconic villages and towns, through lavender fields, and mountain areas with ochre-colored hills and small trees. There will also be moments when you hold your breath and feel a sense of excitement on one of the many turns of the old serpentine Crete Road in the Verdon Gorge.

What to do in Provence? Driev around and look for lavender

Where to Stay in Provence When Travelling by Car?

Deciding where to stay in Provence with a car can be a tricky question as it depends greatly on one’s travel style, budget, and time. There are two options for those wanting to make the most out of their trip.

For those with limited time who do not want to compromise on anything to see or do in Provence, it may be a good idea to drive through the region and stay in hotels and apartments in the towns and villages along the way.
For slow travelers, it may work better to choose a base (or two) in Provence and take day trips by car. This allows for a balanced trip, with a day on the road, a day in town, then another day on the road, followed by another day in town, and so on.

There are several base towns that are known as the best places to stay in Provence when traveling by car, and these are Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, Marseille, and any of the big cities on the Cote d’Azur.

What to do in Provence? Head towards the Roussillion canyon

Table of Contents

Where to Base in Provence? Option 1: Aix-en-Provence

In our experience, the best base to stay in Provence with a car is Aix-en-Provence. This bustling yet charming town, located in the heart of the region, offers the perfect balance of good accommodations, things to do in town, and easy access in and out of Aix with minimal traffic.

Are you searching for accommodations in Aix-en-Provence? Browse through a selection of hotels and other available lodging options . Compare prices and make a reservation in advance to ensure a stress-free experience.

Driving in Aix-en-Provence is relatively stress-free, and there are plenty of places to park. Logistically, this location is also a convenient starting point for building circular road trips around Provence. Here are just a few examples of day trips by car from Aix-en-Provence:

Aix-en-Provence — Gordes — Abbaye de Senanque — Rousillon — Apt — back to Aix for dinner and a stroll down Cours Mirabeau.

Aix-en-Provence — Valensole — Verdon Gorge — Lake of Sainte-Croix — back to Aix for a glass of wine and delicious dinner.

Aix-en-Provence — Cote d’Azur — back to Aix to shop at the local fare.

Aix-en-Provence — Camargue — Calanques du Cassis — back to Aix to recharge.

Standing in front of the entrance to the old town of Aix is the fountain of Rotonde

Note to travelers: the routes around the area of Haute Provence may include winding roads, roads through villages, and plenty of roundabouts. These factors will limit the speed, so it’s best to keep that in mind when planning your daily Provence travel itineraries. Less is more when it comes to exploring the region. However, one downside of choosing Aix is that parking can be expensive unless it is included as a bonus with rented accommodation. Another thing to keep in mind is that driving in the historic center is not allowed. So, the options are either to leave the car at the nearest parking area and carry bags/gear to the rented apartment or hotel or rent outside of the historic center.

Where to Base in Provence? Option 2: Avignon

For us, Avignon is a close second when it comes to choosing the best place to stay in Provence with a car. The good news is that choosing between these two locations is the type of decision where you can hardly go wrong. Both towns are old, historic, and simply beautiful, with a good selection of accommodations for different budgets and plenty of things to do. We discovered that Provence road trips, while exciting and filled with many great stops, can be exhausting when done for several days in a row. It’s nice to plan breaks between days behind the wheel and spend them wandering around the city. Avignon fits this agenda perfectly.

One thing to consider is that Avignon may experience heavier traffic within the city, especially during rush hour. Plus, Avignon is located about 90 km from Aix, slightly further inland. This adds approximately an hour of driving each way if you plan to explore destinations such as the Azure coast or the national parks of Verdon or Luberon. From this perspective, Aix might be a slightly more strategic choice.

Are you searching for accommodations in Avignon? Compare prices and make a reservation in advance to ensure a stress-free experience.

Where to Base in Provence? Option 3: Marseilles

The hub that we personally would not recommend when answering the question about the best base for Provence is Marseille. The city’s vibe is not our personal cup of tea for a holiday. Its intense traffic and the amount of time needed to get in and out of town were factors that tipped the scale in favor of Aix (plus, Aix is closer to Haute Provence — the region that we were curious to explore).

However, Marseille may be a good option for those prioritizing the Camargue and the Calanques, as well as those who want to visit the Cote d’Azur. The city also offers convenient connections to some places of interest by public transportation. This is always an advantage for anyone looking for the best place to stay in Provence without a car.

Explore day trips from Marseilles to some of the most popular destinations in Provence.

Where to Base in Provence? Option 4: Cote d’Azur

Finally, there is the Cote d’Azur and its popular locations: Nice, Monaco, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez. Choosing this region as a base to travel around Provence by car may not be the first option because the area is relatively far from many key attractions in the heart of the region. However, the Cote d’Azur itself is a wonderful destination with plenty to offer, including beautiful beaches, charming towns, and delicious cuisine.

Additionally, it is a convenient base for exploring nearby areas such as Grasse, the Cascades de Clars, and the Verdon Natural Park. For travelers wondering where to stay in Provence without a car, the Cote d’Azur is a great option due to its extensive network of train lines that make it easy to travel between cities and towns. However, keep in mind that the train may not be the best way to explore the more remote areas of Provence, which are best accessed by car.

What to Do and See in Provence? The Road Trip Itinerary

Listed below are numerous suggestions for things to do and see in Provence. We have included the locations we explored, and this may serve as a nice illustration of how a road trip itinerary can work.

Day 1: Gordes, Senanque Abbey, Roussillon, Apt.

Day 2: Relaxing in Aix-en-Provence.

Day 3: Lavender Fields of Valensole, Verdon Gorges National Park.

As mentioned earlier in the post, less is more. We advise any newbie exploring Provence to pace themselves. It is helpful to jot down a few major attractions that will take some time to explore, but also be prepared for unplanned stops along the way because the region is truly beautiful, and a significant part of it is still under the radar.

Explore the Base: Aix-en-Provence

There are plenty of things to see and do in Aix-en-Provence. For starters, living in the downtown area means being able to take a lovely morning stroll to any of the local bakeries and pastry shops for some freshly baked pain au chocolat or croissants, and to enjoy a glass of great wine at any of the numerous local cafes. The town is also famous for its Cours Mirabeau – a central alley lined with plane trees. During the week, there are plenty of local vendors selling all things Provence – lavender-scented products, sweets, and souvenirs at Cours Mirabeau.

What to do in Provence? Stay in Aix for two days and explore this cozy town

Aix-en-Provence is also known as the City of a Thousand Fountains. These fountains are scattered around the old town area. One of them, the Fontaine d’Albertas, is a central element of the Place d’Albertas and is a must-see when visiting Aix-en-Provence. This elegant square and its buildings were once the headquarters for the most influential aristocratic family in the area. Today, it is a place where locals enjoy their lunch, and many musicians come to play in the evening. Another lovely fountain not to miss is the Fontaine de la Rotonde. It is located in the heart of the city and marks the entrance to the old town. The fountain is surrounded by local shops, bakeries, and cafes.

Aix-en-Provence is a perfect town to explore on foot . Walk past the town hall and an old tower straight towards the Aix Cathedral. Wander among the small and cozy streets of the town or explore the local markets. If you are a foodie, these markets are a must-visit. Provence is known for its cantaloupes, candied fruits, herbs, calissons, and other products that are to die for.

The fountain on Place d'Albertas in Aix-en-Provence

Marvel at the Panorama of Gordes

What to do and see in Gordes, France? There are two options: to either drive through the town and stop to enjoy the panorama – an option suitable for those who are on a tight schedule, or to actually check out the panorama, then drive into town, park the car, and explore Gordes on foot .

What to do in Provence? Head towards Gordes and spend a couple of hours wandering the streets of this town

The town, though relatively small, has a lot to offer. You can explore the Tuesday market, visit the church, or simply walk the streets of this popular town and enjoy some lemonade in one of its cafes. If you come in the summer, we would definitely advise scheduling a visit to Gordes for either the morning or evening. It is a town on the hills, which means there is a lot of uphill walking. In the heat of the day, this can be quite a challenge. To see the panorama of Gordes, take the A8 highway to Cavaillon, and then the D15 route. As you approach the town, there is a convenient stop near Bel Air Rock.

Have Lunch Near Senanque Abbey

This is probably one of the most popular postcard views of Provence, and a trip to the Vaucluse region would be incomplete without it. We highly recommend putting it on your Provence road trip itinerary. Not far from Gordes, there is the secluded yet very popular Senanque Abbey. This is an active monastery with two lovely lavender fields and a cozy park with old trees that provide much-needed shade on the roads and hills.

The Abbey itself dates back to the 12th century. With time, it has adapted to the modern economy and is now not only a place of worship but also a business. Visitors are welcome to explore Abbaye de Senanque on a tour or to shop in the local gift shop. The shop sells local produce, including honey—the by-product of the lush lavender fields of the abbey.

What to do in Provence? Shop for lavender

One of the less popular things to do at the Senanque Abbey is to have lunch on one of the park’s hills. The ones closer to the parking lot are less inviting and can get quite dusty and crowded, but there are also several sweet spots closer to the abbey. For anyone wondering where on the Provence road trip itinerary might be a proper place to have lunch, consider this location and pack a picnic blanket and some food in the car.

Hike the Roussillon Ochre Trail

Located only 13 km (8 miles) from Gordes are the ochre cliffs of Roussillon. This is one of France’s most colorful hiking experiences. Just imagine former ochre deposits with orange trails winding among red, yellow, and orange cliffs, earth pillars, and hillocks.

When looking for things to do in Provence, explore the ochre canyon of Roussillion

There are two ways to explore the Ochre Trail or Le Sentier des Ocres: a shorter version that takes around 30 minutes, and a longer one that may take up to 60 minutes. Both hikes are fairly simple but require suitable footwear, a hat, a water bottle, sunscreen, and covered shoulders if you visit during the summer.

Keep in mind that during high season, the Roussillon Canyon can get crowded, with long lines at ticket desks and some traffic on the trail. I would not recommend wearing white shoes on this hike, and arriving early before 11 am may be the way to avoid the crowds and get some great pictures without other tourists in the background.

Panorama of Roussillion, a town near the ochre canyon

The ticket price for the Ochre Trail or Le Sentier des Ocres depends on whether you want to visit a conservatory afterward and will cost either under or above 5 Euros. In addition, there are plenty of great guided tours of Roussillon available. It is not hard to find parking (all paid) near the trail. After the hike, you can also explore the town. Although it may not have many historic attractions, it is a very authentic place suitable for walks.

Stop at Apt for Its Candied Fruits

Apt is located in close proximity to Roussillon and is another great stop on the Provence travel itinerary. This is a small Provencal town with an old square, a town hall, and charming cafes.

Cavaillion in Provence is known for growing the perfect cantaloupes

The town of Apt has a long history of candied fruit production, which dates back to the 14th century. In the 19th century, the town became the center of the candied fruit industry in France. Today, Apt is still home to several factories and shops producing and selling candied fruits.

Candied fruits are made by cooking fresh fruit in a sugar syrup until the fruit becomes saturated with sugar and the syrup is reduced to a thick, sweet glaze. The candied fruit can be eaten on its own as a snack or used as an ingredient in a variety of sweet dishes, such as cakes, tarts, and ice cream. If you’re interested in learning more about the history and production of candied fruits, you can visit the Musee de l’Aptesien, a small museum located in the heart of Apt. The museum features exhibits on the traditional crafts of the region, including candied fruit making.

Apt in Provence is known for its candied fruits

The process of turning fruits into candied ones involves submerging them in a sugar syrup boiled to 130°C (266°F), followed by cooling and repeating the process for several weeks or even months. When it comes to tasting candied fruits, similar to tasting cheeses, there are some recommendations to follow. It’s best to start with fruits that have delicate flavors, such as figs, cantaloupes, and apricots, and save stronger citrus flavors for last.

Enjoy the Lavender Fields of Valensole

Visit Provence in summer to see the beautiful lavender fields

The best time for visiting the lavender fields in Provence is typically from late June to early August, but this can vary depending on weather and other factors. The Provence Department of Tourism offers an interactive map of the fields, which includes information on the regions where lavender is expected to be in bloom and directions to those areas. This can be a useful tool for planning your visit and ensuring that you get to see the lavender at its peak. Keep in mind that the lavender fields can get quite crowded during peak season, so it’s a good idea to plan your visit accordingly and try to arrive early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the crowds.

Check out the exciting tours to the lavender fields of Valensole.

If you want to avoid crowds, it’s a good idea to visit the lavender fields before mid-July. One of the best fields is located between the villages of Saul and Mont Ventoux. Without a doubt, Valensole is the top spot to see lavender in Provence in July.

In addition to taking pictures of the fields, you can also book a visit to a lavender distillery, which is a great way to meet local growers. Another good idea is to stay in a hotel in the village and spend the night in close proximity to the fields and their indescribable aroma. Although the area is challenging to reach by public transportation, travelers visiting Provence without a car can still enjoy an immersive lavender experience by booking one of the many lavender tours available throughout the summer.

Relax by the Lac du Sainte-Croix

The lake is nestled between the cliffs of Gorges du Verdon, the deepest gorge in France, and it is an absolute natural wonder of Provence. Spending multiple days in this location alone is a must-do road trip itinerary that includes camping in the park, swimming in the clear blue waters of the lake, driving the breathtaking Route de Cretes, and having dinner at Moustier Sainte Marie.

As you approach the Regional Natural Park of Verdon, the vast lake with its clear blue water becomes hard to miss. Two parking lots are available near the lake. The free one is on the upper road, though it’s slightly inconvenient as you’ll need to walk up and down the road to reach your car. The second option is a paid parking lot located right by the lake.

The inviting lake offers plenty of opportunities to swim, relax under the shade of old big trees, and rent a boat or catamaran. The small town of Sainte-Croix has many food options for visitors to stop and enjoy.

Hold Your Breath at the Verdon Gorge

A road trip through the Verdon Gorge is a drive to remember. Gorges du Verdon, and especially its Crete Route is one of the most beautiful serpentine roads ever. It slowly climbs up, leaving one breathless and speechless at each of the turns, as the road opens mesmerizing panoramas.

Upon reaching the top of the Crete Route in the Verdon Gorge, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the Grand Canyon of France. The river valley below is home to the Verdon River, which has stubbornly carved its way through the mountains over millions of years. As you stand at the top, you’ll be able to enjoy a panoramic view of this natural wonder and appreciate the stunning beauty of the surrounding landscape.

The route is open to campers, motorbikes, and hikers. You can either drive through the gorge or take the circular Route des Cretes, an old road that leads to panoramic views. To access the Route des Cretes, turn onto the D23 from the D952 road. However, the road requires skilled driving as it is steep, narrow, and often lacks side barriers.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Verdon Gorge offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, and rafting. The canyon is a popular destination for rock climbers, with over 1,500 climbing routes available. Kayaking and rafting enthusiasts can explore the Verdon River and its rapids, which range from Class II to Class IV.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker or just want to take in stunning natural beauty, the Verdon Gorge is a must-see attraction in Provence.

Road Trip through Provence: What Else to Visit?

Provence is a gift that keeps on giving, and there are lots of other noteworthy stops that, if included on the itinerary, won’t be a disappointment! Here are just a few other ideas on what to visit or do in Provence:

Spend the night at Moustiers Sainte-Marie. Dubbed the most picturesque village of Provence, it is hidden in close proximity to Gorges du Verdon. If you include all of these or most of these stops into your Provence travel itinerary for the day, by the time you reach the Verdon area, it will already be rather late. Spending the night (and the next day) at Moustiers Sainte-Marie may be a good idea. Nature with its cliffs, torrents, rivers, and cascades makes the most of the village’s scenery. This is a perfect place to stay in the heart of Provence.
Explore the South-West of Provence and the famous Calanques National Park – a series of picturesque rocky cliffs and bays. However, with Calanques, timing is everything as access to them may be restricted during the hot summer months. This stop includes a rather long hike from the parking lot to the seaside, and, for the safety of tourists, local authorities sometimes prohibit visits.
Immerse yourself in the nature of Camargue, a unique region known for its horses, flamingos, and pink salt lakes. Similar to Calanques, access to Camargue may be somewhat restricted during the summer months. Stop by Cassis, praised by many travelers for its picturesque promenade by the water, cozy cafes, and overall atmosphere.
Other honorary mentions among popular Provencal towns are Avignon and its castle, and Nimes and its Jardins de la Fontaine and Pont du Gard.

What to Do in Provence when on a road trip? FAQ

Aix-en-Provence vs. Avignon? Which town is the best to stay in?

This really depends on many factors, and I cannot be completely objective as my personal experience only covers life in Aix. My information about Avignon is based on research and feedback from other travelers. However, there are numerous online comments praising Avignon for being a better base due to the larger number of attractions to see, better housing, and logistics.

I personally am considering renting a place in Avignon for my upcoming trip in autumn, on a mission to explore Marseilles-Calanques-Camargue. I will then share my observations and update this section.

Is traveling in Provence by car the only option?

It is challenging to explore this area adequately without renting a car. While there are local regular buses available, such as the one from Avignon to Pont du Gard in Nimes, they do not drive through some of the lovely villages. This is true for the rest of the regular bus routes as well. It always involves a compromise. Private tours can be a solution. However, I would also appreciate it very much if any of you could share your personal experience of exploring Provence without renting a car. This would be useful for the traveling community.

What is the best season to visit Provence?

The best seasons to visit Provence are between May and June, as well as between mid-August and mid-October, when the weather is very welcoming. If you have Calanques or Camargue on your wishlist, this is also the ideal time to visit. However, if you want to see the lavender in full bloom, you’ll need to be ready to take some heat as the flowers are at their fullest from the end of June until the end of July.

Where to stay in Provence without a car?

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Provence without a car, it’s best to look for accommodations in larger towns or cities that have good public transportation connections. Here are some options to consider:

Avignon – Avignon is a popular destination in Provence and has a train station and good public transportation connections. It’s also a great base for exploring nearby attractions like the Pont du Gard and the Luberon region.
Aix-en-Provence – Aix-en-Provence is a charming university town that has good public transportation connections to other parts of Provence. It’s also a great place to explore on foot, with plenty of pedestrian-friendly streets, markets, and cafes.
Marseille – Marseille is a bustling port city with good public transportation connections to other parts of Provence. It’s also home to some great museums, historic sites, and restaurants.
Arles – Arles is a small town in the heart of Provence that has a rich Roman history and plenty of historic sites to explore. It’s also well-connected to other parts of Provence by public transportation.
Saint-Remy-de-Provence – Saint-Remy-de-Provence is a small town that’s known for its art galleries, markets, and historic sites. It’s also well-connected to other parts of Provence by public transportation.

Keep in mind that public transportation in Provence can be limited, especially in more rural areas. It’s also worth noting that while these towns are well-connected by public transportation, some of the smaller villages and attractions may require a car to reach them.

Is it hard driving in Provence?

Driving in Provence can be challenging for some people, especially if they are not used to narrow roads, tight turns, and steep inclines. Additionally, some roads in the region can be narrow, and parking can be limited in certain areas, especially in popular tourist spots. However, many people enjoy driving in Provence and find it a great way to explore the region’s beautiful scenery and charming towns. It’s important to be cautious and alert while driving, especially on winding roads and in busy areas. If you’re not comfortable driving, you can also consider other transportation options such as buses, trains, and private tours.

About the author of Through a Travel Lens: Inessa

Written by Inessa Rezanova

I am a Kyiv-based screenwriter with 10+ years of experience in producing scripts. I love my job, and no, I did not quit it to travel the world. I see different countries in my spare time. As a storyteller, I believe that it is the emotional journey that matters the most. This is why together with my sister I started this blog to encourage everyone to travel and to do so with a heart and mind opened to adventures.

About Natalie, the author of Through a Travel Lens

Images by Natalie Rezanova

I am a photographer based in Kyiv, Ukraine. I am lucky to be able to do what I love the most for a living. Photography is an endless source of inspiration for me. My mission on this blog is to inspire by sharing some of the favorite captions from my journeys. I also provide professional photography tips to help the readers bring home some beautiful photo memories.

Where to Stay in Provence When Traveling by Car? Choosing the Best Base for Road Trips in Provence

Inessa Rezanova

I live in Kyiv, Ukraine. I am a screenwriter with 10+ years of experience in producing scripts. I love my job, and no, I did not quit it to travel the world. I see different countries in my spare time. As a storyteller, I believe that it is the emotional journey that matters the most. This is why together with my sister I started this blog to encourage everyone to travel and to do so with a heart and mind opened to adventures.

6 thoughts on “ Where to Stay in Provence When Traveling by Car? Choosing the Best Base for Road Trips in Provence ”

You write such substantial articles! SO much information and terrific photos, thank you!

Thank you for your kind words, Amy!

So I never really put the Lavender fields on the Bucket List Project. Dont get me wrong, they always look beautiful in pictures but I cant imagine wanting to travel just to see them. Now that Verdon Gorge is definitely bucket list worthy to me. That along with hiking the Roussillion Canyon to see the amazing landscape and ultimately hike up to get those views! I guess I am more of an outdoorsman if I head to Provence by car! Was the Lac du Sainte-Croix cold? Can you go swimming there?

Hi Eric. Thank you for your comment, it is always great to compare the way we all feel about what we can refer to as bucket-list destinations! The lake was not cold at all. I would say, it was refreshing. Especially if travelling to Provence in summer, when it is hot, the lake becomes such a rewarding stop on the route. We went swimming, but I also saw people kayaking from the river of Vintgar Gorge (another possible activity to add to that list of things to try). There is a clean beach by the lake, and also a camping site.

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Your Dreamy 2-Week Road Trip Itinerary Through Provence

This 2-week road trip itinerary through Provence in the South of France takes you through some of her most beautiful natural landscapes. The itinerary is ideal for travelers who want to visit as many places as possible in Provence. This South of France road trip is also ideal for travelers who enjoy natural, dramatic landscapes.

Provence is one of the most picturesque regions in France. Its small villages and windy, narrow roads through the diverse landscape are what makes Provence such a worthy destination for your dreamy road trip in the south of France.

Before beginning your road trip, decide from where you want to start. Both Marseille and Nice are home to international airports and train stations that connect to other French cities.

This Provence road trip itinerary begins in Nice. If you’ll be starting from Marseille, then you can do this itinerary in reverse.

2 Days in Nice

Take it easy on the day you fly into Nice.

Start your day in Nice by taking a stroll through the Vieux Nice (the old town). Get lost through the walkways, admire the Provençal architecture, and grab lunch in one of the many highly rated restaurants the Old Town has to offer. Some restaurants I recommend in Nice’s Old Town include Chez Mémère, Chez Acchiardo, Peixes, Le Bar des Oiseaux, and Comptoir du Marché.

After lunch, take in some of the most gorgeous panoramic views Nice has to offer like at Parc Honoré d’Estienne d’Orves, Mont Boron, or Castle Hill, which is perfect for sunsets.

Want to enjoy drinks with a view? Check out my list of Nice’s sea view bars and restaurants . You can also find a few happy hour deals at bars located on Cours Saleya .

For day 2, start your day by visiting a café to have the typical French breakfast of coffee, freshly squeezed orange juice, croissant and bread with spreads. If you want something more filling, some brunch spots I recommend in Nice include Maranna, Paper Plane, La Femme du Boulanger, and Cafe Fino.

Then consider heading out on an easy day trip from Nice using public transportation by visiting Antibes, Grasse, Eze, or even Ventimiglia or San Remo in Italy! You can also enjoy a scenic walk to Villefranche-sur-Mer .

2 Days in Verdon Natural Regional Park

Distance from Nice: 150km (~3 hours)

To kick off your road trip, pick up your rental car in Nice and drive over to Verdon Regional Natural Park.

Verdon is one of the most visited areas in the South of France. This region is home to the incredibly turquoise Saint Croix Lake and the dominating heights of the Verdon Gorge, the largest canyon in Europe!

Verdon is also home to Valensole, famed for the lavender and sunflower fields which mesmerize visitors every summer.

Honestly, I dare you to find a reason not to visit Verdon!

Driving route from Nice to Verdon

For one of the most scenic drives ever , drive from Nice to Verdon via the Gorges du Verdon . This route is not for the faint hearted, but it is worth it! I mean, just look at the photo below.

I recommend stopping at the following viewpoints along the way:

Balcon de la Mescla
43°43’51.6″N 6°21’24.2″E
Point de vue
Cirque de Vaumale

What to do in Verdon

Consider spending one day at the Gorges du Verdon and Saint Croix Lake to sunbath, swim, paddle boat, and/or hike. I recommend visiting the tourism office’s website for a list of activities you can do in and around the canyon.

Spend a half day in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, said to be one of the most beautiful villages in all of France . Walk through the village, visit shops and restaurants, and take in the incredible views as you climb up the steps alongside the town’s mountain to Chapelle Notre-Dame de Beauvoir.

If you’ll be visiting in late June or early July, you’ll want to visit the lavender fields in Valens ole .

3 Days in the Luberon Region

Distance from Verdon: 120km (~2.5 hours)

What makes Luberon so special is its landscape. Luberon is known for its ochre, a natural clay and sand mixture found in the earth that produces spectacular colors such as yellow, orange, and red.

What to do in Luberon

Spend a half day visiting The Provençal Colorado – a natural landscape with a forest and funky rock formations of yellow, white, orange, and red. It’s important to note that there are no water fountains or public toilets available so be sure to bring water and, if needed, snacks. Check out their website to see the cost of entry per vehicle type.

Another place you should visit in Luberon to see how important ochre was to the region is the cute, clifftop village of Roussillon . Roussillon’s buildings are covered in red ochre, which greatly contrast the typical Provençal architecture.

Once you’ve explored Roussillon village, walk over to the entrance of the town’s Ochre Trail, Le Sentier des Ocres in French, located in Roussillon. The trail is so mesmerizing with its dramatic cliffs and colorful rock formations; you’ll easily spend a couple hours here.

If you have more time to spare, visit the cliffs-integrated village of Gordes – easily one of Luberon’s picturesque villages.

Read more about why you shouldn’t skip Luberon during your visit to Provence .

3-4 Days in and around Arles

Distance from Luberon: 100km (~1.5 hours)

Arles holds a lot of cultural and artistic history. It was the Provençal capital of the Roman Empire and it was a city which inspired Vincent Van Gogh. Van Gogh spent time not just in Arles, but also in nearby Saint Rémy de Provence where he created hundreds of art pieces!

I suggest at least 3 to 4 days in Arles because the city is centrally located near two regional parks and other cities, so there’s a ton to do.

My top recommendations for how to spend your time in and around Arles include:

Half a day to enjoy Arles by visiting the Arles Amphitheatre, the Arles & Provence Antiques Museum, and doing the Van Gogh Walking Tour.
Spend a day exploring the village of Saint Rémy de Provence , the ancient city of Glanum , and the fortified mountaintop village of Les Baux-de-Provence .
See pink flamingoes and other bird species in Camargue .
Visit the pink salt lakes in Aigues-Mortes .
Explore the city of Nîmes , another place of importance for the Roman Empire, and Pont du Gard.
Visit the former papal palace in Avignon , and the Arc de Triomphe and large theatre in Orange .

1 day in Aix-en-Provence

Distance from Arles: 75km (~1 hour)

No road trip in Provence is complete without a visit to the quant Aix-en-Povence. You can choose to spend either a half day or full day here depending on the pace you want to go. Walk through the village, stop by a few local shops, and enjoy a nice meal on a terrace.

1 Day at Calanques National Park

Distance from Aix-en-Provence: 50km (~1 hour )

The Calanques National Park extends from Marseille through Cassis to La Ciotat. Its beauty is truly unmatched with their limestone cliffs and turquoise waters! The calanques are a must visit if you’re travelling through Provence.

For the best experience, stay the night in Cassis . It is a small Provençal town next to Marseille with colorful buildings, a medieval castle, and home to the Cassis white wine. Cassis is also a fishing village so you’ll never run out of seafood dining experiences.

When visiting the calanques, you have the option to hike them, visit by boat, or take a canoe!

If you’re up to it, check out the calanques of La Ciotat as well. There are two beaches in particular worth checking out, both within a 15 minute walk from La Ciotat port.

Read more of my recommendations for Calanques National Park .

2 Days in Marseille

Distance from Cassis: 35km (less than 1 hour )

Marseille is one of France’s largest cities. It’s got stunning landscape and architecture, and is a culinary destination. My recommendations of things to do in Marseille include:

Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde for a 360-degree panoramic view of Marseille
Abbaye Saint-Victor and its crypts
Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MUCEM)
Take a 20-minute boat ride to Ratonneau island

I hope you found this article helpful for planning your visit to Provence. Any questions? Feel free to reach out.

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Beyond the Lavender: An Off-the-Beaten-Path Provence Road Trip

This article may contain referral links. Read our DISCLOSURE

Have you thought about a Provence road trip? As a travel destination, France is one of the most popular countries in the world. It’s got a bit of everything from culture, history, architecture, culinary gems and a whole host of things to do and see.

As one of the country’s most beloved regions, Provence is always a hit, but going past the oh-so-popular lavender fields can lead to some very interesting off-the-beaten path travel discoveries.

Previously, we’ve shown you how to explore the Gorges du Verdon . Now follow along on an other unique French travel experience as guest contributor, Teresa Otto , takes us on an art and animal-filled Provence road trip in the off season.

I slowed the car down well below the speed limit, did a three-sixty around the next round-about and cruised into the parking lot to get a closer look. My travel partner and I had stumbled upon industrial buildings transformed into artists’ canvases.

Dizzying patterns of regressing green and red squares on one facade, an abstract flowers on another, a three-story wizard cradling a spray paint nozzle and giving a hint about the mural’s creation on the third.

Where were we and what had we found on a road trip through Provence?

A purple and black wizard with a white beard painted on the side of a building in Arles, France.

The saying, ‘all who wander are not lost’ wasn’t true today. We were lost. It had a little to do with poor planning and a lot to do with no reading glasses.

The tiny rental car map showed a straight shot from Aix en Provence to the flamingos and horses of Camargue France, our crowd-free, after-lavender-season destination. Minutes before, we’d driven under dappled light on a narrow country road lined with iconic plane trees, marveling at nature’s beauty.

Now our eyes feasted upon man-made beauty in mint green and candy apple red, hot pink and lavender. This road trip had become a journey, not just a destination.

Table of Contents

Saint-Etienne-du-Gres: Art Stop on a Provence Road Trip

a paved road passing through a tunnel of trees

(Provence Road Trip Route: Saint-Etienne-du-Gres on Highway D99)

Saint-Etienne-du-Gres (not to be confused with Saint-Etienne near Lyons) is an agricultural village in grape and olive growing country within the Regional National Park of Alpilles. Buildings at Alpilles Cereales, an agricultural co-op, provide the canvas for several artists participating in the A-part International Festival of Contemporary Art each summer.

A-Part (or Alpilles-Provence art ) features local and international contemporary artists. Artists also meet in Saint-Remy-de-Provence, Aux Baux-de-Provence and Paradou-all within a ten kilometer radius of Saint-Etienne-du-Gres-and farther away in Marseilles each July and August.

You are free to interact with the artists, get their insight and ask questions about their inspiration or process. Entrance to all exhibits is free. The outdoor murals remain in some locations after the festival closes.

Stay longer in Saint-Eitenne-du-Gres

Start your search for lodging in Saint-Etienne-du-Gres here .

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Road Trip to Arles

( Provence Road Trip Route: Highway D570N to Arles )

two people biking on a road surrounded by natural landscape

Having embraced the journey, our Provence itinerary stops next in Arles. The tourist office , 9 Boulevard des Lices, proved to be a goldmine.

Filled with brochures on things to do in Arles and tours to Camargue, we settled on parking the car in Arles and joining one of several guided Jeep tours to Camargue . The tourism office also provides maps of the Camargue region for self-guided car and bicycle tours.

While at the tourist office, we took in the heartfelt mural in black and tan commemorating the fallen cartoonists and satirists of Charlie Hebdo who lost their lives in the January 2015 terrorist attack in Paris. Artists painted caricatures of Stephane Charbonnier, Jean Cabut, Georges Wolinski and Bernard Verlhac on the tourism office’s eastern wall.

If time permits, you can take a Vincent van Gogh walking tour with a map from-you guessed it-the tourism office. Arles was his home from 1888 to 1889.

Passionate about the area’s light, van Gogh painted three hundred pictures during his time in the city. The map retraces his footsteps and highlights nine places of inspiration for his paintings.

Stay longer in Arles

Start your Arles hotel search with us.
Discover Van Gogh in Provence on a tour from Arles
Two-hour private walking tour of Arles .

In today’s travel climate, trip insurance is a must. Compare policies and rates at InsureMyTrip .

Guided jeep tour to Carmargue

(Provence Road Trip Route: Highway D37/D36b to Carmargue)

white bird rides the back of a white horse

Camargue is the second largest delta after the Nile , bordered by two branches of the Rhone River and the Mediterranean . It has ideal growing conditions for rice, alfalfa and wheat. Migrating birds, indigenous white horses and Spanish bulls make their home here. The guided tour proved educational from start to finish.

a black bull with two horns and another bull standing behind him

Our guide, Alain, was particularly enthusiastic about the black bulls. When he started talking about the bull games. I feared the worst. As it turns out, the bulls are celebrities.

During the bull game, the bullfighter plucks ribbons or rosettes from between the bull’s horns. No bloodshed in this sport. Alain pointed out particularly clever or aggressive bulls that are a source of pride for the ranch owner and the entire town as we drove past family-owned farms.

Two white horses standing behind a fence and posing for a photograph.

Alain then turned his attention to the marshland’s Camargue horses, used by local cowboys to herd bulls. No longer wild, the horses vied for attention when we hopped out of the Jeep to photograph them.

If you opt for a self-guided tour, maps identify ranches offering horseback rides and signs indicate ranches that own winning bulls. The tourism office in Arles provides maps and schedules for local arenas that host bull games if you are traveling during the summer or early autumn. These events are often free.

Inspired to hit the road? Check out a few of our favorite boomer road trip adventures !

Ornithological Park of Carmargue

(Provence Road Trip Route:Highway D570 to Carmargue)

After a stop in Saintes Maries de la Mer and a sumptuous dessert at La Boheme on Place de l’Eglise, we traveled to the Ornithological Park of Camargue . It is home to 350 bird species including greater flamingos, herons, egrets, storks, spoonbills and moorhens. The area is a breeding ground for pink flamingos and a rest stop for migrating birds between Europe and Africa.

The 4×4 was ideal for navigating the unpaved, pothole-filled roads. Once off the highway, you’ll find flamingos and egrets wading in shallow water and herons taking flight. Taking a walk on the park’s meandering wooden boardwalks offers even more bird watching opportunities.

A small white Little Egret standing in the water looking for food.

If you’ve chosen a self-guided tour and want to get more fresh air or work off a La Boheme dessert, bicycle rentals are available in Saintes Maries de la Mer or book a bicycle tour from Vauvert .

Stay longer in Camargue

Start your search for hotels in Camargue with us.

My hope for this off-the-beaten-path Provence road trip was to see Camargue horses and pink flamingos. I didn’t expect to be wowed by the beauty of the A-Part murals, the local pride in the Spanish bulls or the elegant silhouettes of the egrets.

This side trip from Aix en Provence, Marseilles or Avignon can be tailored to your interests and activity level. Don’t hesitate to hop in the car and explore the beauty of Provence.

Prepare to be wowed, even if the lavender is no longer in bloom.

Scratch those itchy travel feet!

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Summer Vacations

Provence road trip itinerary blog — How to spend 5 days in Provence, Southern France in summer

In contrast to the magnificent and lavish Paris is a peaceful, serene, simple Provence surrounded by vibrant flower colors all year round. When traveling to Provence France, you will come across images of farmers working hard under the flowers. Or the horses are leisurely resting in the middle of the vast field. All will blend to create a peaceful picture that makes our souls peaceful and relieved. Today, I will share with you my past journey to this most beautiful land through my Provence travel itinerary for 5 days. So, how to spend 5 days in Provence, South France in summer? Let’s check out our suggested Provence itinerary 5 days on my Provence road trip itinerary which pass through the most beautiful places during lavender season.

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What’s attractive about Provence?

If someone reminds me of Provence, I’ll tell you about a brilliant picture in the South-East of France. The range of colors goes from the white shades of fragrant almond blossoms every spring. The yellow color of autumn pine forests in the Alps, of summer sunflower fields. The orange color of the Roussillon ocher mines. The red-pink color of flamingos in the Camargue biosphere reserve in winter. The endless purple of lavender flowers plateaus, fragrant to the horizon in July. The clear and deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea. The enchanting turquoise color of the Verdon gorge. The silvery green of the pine forests on the slopes of Mont Ventoux or Mont Saint Victoire has been painted many times.

It can be said that Provence is one of the most beautiful lands in France. And because of that, a huge number of tourists will flock here, especially in summer days. People come to Provence not only to see but also to satisfy all the senses. Breathe in the free flow of lavender-infused fresh air. Listening to the chirping of cicadas evokes nostalgic memories. Feel the burning heat of each summer sun’s rays on the skin, and then be gently caressed and soothed by the cool breeze. Enjoy French cuisine made from a variety of fresh seafood and sweetness of full sun vegetables.

There are many ways to fall in love with Provence. But I like to drive away from the crowd to see a nostalgic and anxious Provence like in the paintings of Paul Cézanne or Vincent van Gogh. Try going like me on summer days in July.

Provence road trip itinerary: Recommended Provence itinerary 5 days (5 days in Provence)

If you want to go all Provence, perhaps a lifetime is not enough. For those of you who come here, don’t have much time and still want to “steal” some good memories of the South of France, I would like to suggest a short Provence itinerary 3 or 5 days.

This itinerary is for the Provence lavender season in the last week of June and the first 2 weeks of July. This lavender route Provence goes through part of the destinations I listed at the end of my previous post about Provence ( https://livingnomads.com/2022/05/provence-lavender-season/ ). If you plan a trip in a different time, you can re-adjust, remove lavender areas and add more places to visit to better suit.

However, with this itinerary I travel by self-driving car. I don’t know if I go by public transport, which way to go and how long it will take, don’t ask me.

The itinerary focuses mainly to admire the natural scenery and visit some beautiful old cities and small villages, combined with shimmering virtual life photography at the golden hour. Therefore, the daily schedule starts very early, sometimes I left the house at dawn 5, 6 am and ending very late at sunset 9, 10pm. If you do not have the ability to stay up late, get up early, you can choose the places you are less interested in to phase out.

Every day is a specific itinerary I have arranged according to a topic. If you want to go for less days, you just need to choose the topic you like and go on that day.

Day 1: Cove and Lavender – Around Marseille, Cassis, Valensole Lavender Plateau (190Km, 5 Hours)

The coves near Marseille: Early in the morning, from Marseille to the cove (calanque in French). The most beautiful and easily accessible calanques near Marseille are Sormiou, Morgiou, Sugiton (located right behind the Luminy campus university dormitory). Particularly, Sormiou and Morgiou can go by car to the place if you arrive early before 7, 8 am. Each calanque has a different opening time for vehicles. If you arrive after this hour, you can still get down to the calanque, but you’ll have to walk down and up, which can be quite strenuous if it’s hot that day. Remember to check if there is a forest fire warning that day and then go here, because if there is a risk of forest fire, you will not be able to go down to the calanque. See times and short trek suggestions here ( http://www.calanques13.com/acces-calanques.html ).

Cassis: Cassis is a small port city east of Marseille, very pretty with cute corners of the coastal city of Provence. Beautiful beaches, hilltop fortresses, harbors teeming with fishing boats and yachts. Coming to Cassis, people often go sightseeing along the Route des Crêtes, visit Cap Canaille, trekking to the coves of Port Pain, D’en-Vau.

Aix-en-Provence: If you leave Cassis when it is still early (mid-afternoon), then go straight to Valensole, the light is not yet beautiful. You can stop for a few hours in the city of Aix-en-Provence (often called Aix for short) on the way to Valensole. This is a small city in the North of Marseille. People often call Aix the most Provencal place in Provence. Small Aix with lovely and photogenic fountains, dotted somewhere in its old town.

Valensole and the lavender plateau at sunset: This is the largest and most famous lavender growing region in Provence. All information about the way to explore Valensole and other places, I wrote in the previous post ( https://livingnomads.com/2022/05/provence-lavender-season/ ). This should be the final destination of the day. The best time to see the lavender fields on the plateau is from 7pm to sunset. The plateau lies between the villages of Valensole and Riez, along the D6 road.

Overnight in Valensole or Manosque

5 days in Provence: Day 2: Lake and gorge – Moustiers-Sainte-Marie Village, Lake Saint-Croix, Verdon Gorge, Rougon Village (190 Km, 5 Hours)

Valensole and the lavender plateau at dawn: if you are not tired of watching the lavender fields in Valensole the afternoon before, this morning you should return to the Valensole plateau. This plateau is located on the way from Valensole to the next points on the itinerary, so it is convenient. The lavender fields at sunset can be a bit crowded, but in the early morning before 7, 8 am, you will be alone in a deserted plateau, free to pose and take pictures.

Village Moustiers-Sainte-Marie: is a beautiful small village near Lake Saint-Croix, with a traditional craft of making pottery. The village is built on a poetic mountainside and is always on the list of the most beautiful ancient villages in France. The village farmers market meets every Saturday morning. You should also come here in the morning before 9am, before going to Lake Saint-Croix otherwise it will be quite crowded.

Lake Saint-Croix: about 40 km east of Valensole, passing through Valensole plateau, very convenient for you to go to see flowers and then visit the lake in the same day. The lake water has a very special turquoise color flows from Verdon gorge. Here you can enjoy renting rowing boats, water bikes, swimming in the lake, or simply enjoying the view from above.

Verdon Gorge: one of the most beautiful gorges in France, created from the Verdon River. The Gorge du Verdon stretching from Lake Saint-Croix all the way to Castellane. Instead of just going to only “Gorge du Verdon” that marks on Google maps, you should drive along the following route to see the magnificence of this gorge (see diagram above):

From Lac Saint-Croix (Gatelas bridge) on the D952 road, to Palud-sur-Verdon. From this village, you leave the D952 road and go up the D23 road. Road D23 goes in a circle, starting and ending at Palud-sur-Verdon village, this is a one-way road, so remember to go clockwise. The road goes up high, passing through many beautiful viewpoints.
Continue going on the D952 to Rougon, one of the most beautiful villages in the region. Remember to walk to the viewpoint to see the Verdon gorge, then go up to the village to see the village from above.
Continue going on the D952, turn to D955 road and then D71 road. Go to Artuby Bridge and then turn back on the D71 towards Lake Saint Croix for a view of the gorge from the south.

Going all the way down this road in Verdon Alley will takes entire day. If it starts to get dark and you feel like you can’t keep up with my guide, you should go back along the same road to return, because the mountain road is zigzag, driving at night is not familiar here a bit dangerous.

Verdon Gorge is also a paradise for those who love to go hiking, kayaking and extreme sports. Instead of ducking paddle boat at Lake Saint Croix, you can try rafting on the Verdon River (google with keyword « rafting + gorge du Verdon »). If you want to participate in these activities, you should spend a few more days here.

Spend a night somewhere by the lake Saint-Croix, for example in Aiguines or back to Manosque .

Day 3: Ancient Village – Banon, Sault, Roussillon, Senanque Abbey, Gordes (220 Km, 4.5 Hours)

If the first 2 days focus on natural scenery, the 3rd day will be charming small lavender fields and rural Provence villages, as in the best pictures of this land.

The area to the north of the Luberon strip is a hidden place of small villages on the hillside, in which it is impossible not to mention Banon, Sault, Rustrel, Simiane-la-Rotonde, Saignon, Gordes, Roussillon, Ménerbe, Vénasque… very pretty and so lovely. You can choose a few villages to visit, depending on your own time budget.

Village Banon and Sault: are two beautiful villages in Provence. In Sault the lavender fields are smaller than in Valensole. Yet these fields yield 40% of the flower production of the whole of France. Sault’s flower fields, which bloom from late July to mid-August every year, are nestled among the trees, surrounded by rolling hills.

North of Sault, between Sault and Montbrun-les-Bains has the most beautiful flower fields in the region.
You can visit the flower fields at the foot of Sault village to take pictures of the romantic purple flower beds, with the background of the old village. GPS coordinates 44.091275, 5.404013 ).

Roussillon village: walking on small roads zigzagging through the hills of Provence, you must have noticed the orange houses, pastel blue windows, country style. The orange color comes from the ochre mines of Roussillon. This is one of the most Provencal style villages in the region, under the blazing sun and the chirping of cicadas. If you have time and can stand the heat, you should buy a ticket to visit Roussillon’s white to orange mine, see if you think you are in Bryce Canyon in the southwestern United States.

Senanque Abbey: Surely in Provence, there is no souvenir shop without at least a postcard with the image of the Senanque Abbey. This is a very beautiful abbey, built in Roman architectural style in the 12th century. Senanque is located close to the last village of today – Gordes, so it’s convenient. However, you should skip this place if you are afraid of crowded places.

Gordes: If I could only choose one Provence village to visit, I would choose Gordes. The village is located on top of a hill, overlooking the valley. Gordes is charming, and is filled with alleys for you to explore at your leisure. You should go to Gordes in the late afternoon, around 6pm, when the tourists have left. Around 8 pm is also the time to go along the road to go out of the village, watching the afternoon light cover the Gordes and the valley below, very romantic.

Overnight stay in Avignon .

If time only allows you to spend 3 days in the countryside of Provence, then the above itinerary according to me also goes through quite a lot of interesting points. If you are still not satisfied with the suggestions above, you can go with me for 2 more days.

Provence road trip itinerary: Day 4: Roman Architecture Cluster – Avignon, Orange, Nimes, Arles (125 Km, 2 Hours)

Together with the city of Nimes and the River Gard bridge (Pont du Gard) in the nearby Occitanie region, the three cities of Avignon, Orange and Arles form the largest and best preserved cluster of Romanesque structures in France.

Avignon: also known as the city of the Popes, famous for the bridge Saint-Bénézet and the Palace of the Popes, the huge palace was the residence of the Popes before the Church returned to Rome. Through months and years, Avignon hidden many legends such as the story of Saint Bénézet – who built the famous bridge, or Jeanne VIII – the only female Pope in history.

Orange, Arles, Nimes, Gard River Bridge: are massive Roman architectural works, including theaters, arenas, city walls, temples, and aqueducts that are preserved almost perfectly. Even the Nimes arena, with a similar design to the Colosseum but much more intact, is still the venue for many music and bullfighting events. However, it is not possible to visit all these cities in one day, you should choose 1 or 2 places you feel most interesting.

Overnight stay in Arles .

Day 5: Camargue Biosphere Reserve – Grau-Du-Roi, Saintes Maries De La Mer, Pont De Gau Bird Park (93 Km, 1.5 Hours)

Leaving the “big” cities, today we return to the countryside, to the Camargue mangrove biosphere reserve. Camargue is not a village, nor is it a small suburb. This is a vast marshland, stretching along the Mediterranean coast, from Grau-du-Roi to the lower Rhône river.

Grau-du-Roi is a small tourist city cum lovely fishing village, stretching white sand beach. Pleasant sea atmosphere and many beautiful photo angles reminiscent of Venice.

Aigues-Mortes next to Grau-du-Roi: a small town surrounded by a wall, from the edge of the town wall you can see the special pink salt fields in the Camargue region.

Saintes Maries-de-la-Mer in the central part of the heart of the Camargue. Come here, whether it’s summer or winter, you’ll find something very profound. Saintes Maries-de-la-Mer is a pilgrimage site for the Gitan people, originating from the legend of Saint Sara. This city also has a long white sandy beach, next to countless saltwater lakes and ponds, home to thousands of flamingos. It would be fun to ride a bike here and roam around the area or find a stable for a horseback picnic.

The Pont De Gau Bird Park (Parc Ornithologique du Pont De Gau) is a place where we can enjoy watching thousands of flamingos at a distance of only a few meters. The best season to go bird watching is from November to April because the birds have the most pink feathers at this time. Summer is also full of birds, but the feathers are slightly lighter in color. In addition, the most beautiful time to see flamingos is when the sun is almost setting. You can go to the bird park 1 hour before the park closes and linger for a long time until you are sent back to watch the birds in the sunset. If you go in summer, remember to bring a good mosquito spray if you don’t want to know what a mosquito bite is even through your jeans. See opening hours here: https://www.parcornithologique.com/

Provence itinerary 5 days: Renting a car in France.

To follow the itinerary I just wrote, of course you will need a car or motorbike. In France, there are many reputable rental companies such as Avis, Hertz, Europcar …

You can search for cars directly on the websites of these companies, or go to the websites of car rental agencies such as Rentalcars ( https://www.rentalcars.com/ ). On Rentalcars, there are many companies with all kinds of cars and sometimes the price is cheaper than renting directly from the company or with discounted promotions.

When renting a car in Europe, you should pay attention to car and person insurance. I will write a more detailed article about roadtrip and car rental experience later.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Provence you can refer to

Morning Lavender Tour from Aix-en-Provence
Provence & Lavander Day Tour
Vineyards and Lavender Half Day Tour in Provence
Aix-en-Provence and Valensole Lavender Full Day Tour from Marseille
Provence Guided Day Trip from Paris
Roman Theatre of Orange and Orange Museum Ticket in Provence
Château d’If Ticket in Marseille
Villa Kérylos Ticket in Beaulieu-sur-Mer near Nice
Aix-en-Provence, Cassis, and Marseille Day Tour from Marseille

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The Perfect Southern France Itinerary – 7 Days in Provence

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

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

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

Southern France Itinerary - One Week in Provence.

Itinerary for a Week in Provence, France

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

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

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

Tips for Getting Around Provence

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

Best Time to Visit Provence

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

Visiting Provence in Winter

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

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

Visiting Provence in Spring

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

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

Visiting Provence in Summer

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

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

Visiting Provence in Autumn

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Provence

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

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

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

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

Best of the South of France in 7 Days Itinerary

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

Stay: Avignon

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

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

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

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

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

The Pont du Gard is an easy day trip from Avignon.

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

Day 2 – Avignon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

L'isle-sur-la-Sorgue makes a great day trip from Aix en Provence

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

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

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

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

Day 4 – Les Baux de Provence and Glanum

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

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

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

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

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

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

Glanum near Saint-Remy-de-Provence is a great place to visit on your southern France itinerary.

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

Day 5 – The Villages of the Luberon

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

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

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

The village of Roussillon makes a great day trip from Aix-en-Provence

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

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

Most beautiful villages in Provence, France. Best Provence Villages

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

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

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

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

Day 6 – Camargue and Arles or Nîmes

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

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

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

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

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

Book Your Camargue Tour Here.

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

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

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

Nimes is one of the best day trips from Avignon.

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

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

Day 7 – Cassis and the Calanques

Stay: Aix-en-Provence

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

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

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

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

The Calanques of Cassis deserve to be included in your Southern France Itinerary

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

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

Day 8 – Aix-en-Provence

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pin this for later!

Heading to the South of France and not sure how to best use your time? This one week itinerary takes in the best of southern France and introduces you to some of the best sights in Provence! #Provence #france #itinerary #southoffrance

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49 comments.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Nadine!

You’re most welcome 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

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

We will be going to South France in May 2019.

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

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

Thanks and regards Doreen

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

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

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

Anyway, thank you again!!

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

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

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

Sorry, I meant to type Lourmarin. Thank you!

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

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

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

Thanks, Duncan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Can’t wait

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

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

The Ultimate Guide to a Summer Road Trip in Provence

Oh, Provence. This stunning region has become a major destination for people across the world, thanks to its adorable villages, gorgeous lavender fields, and everyone who visits posting photos of both on social media. Fortunately, certain spots have still remained relatively untouched, despite being a stone’s throw away from popular destinations like Valensole. The best part is, it’s actually very affordable once you get here! If you’re looking for the perfect French summer getaway, look no further than a road trip in Provence.

The Ultimate Guide to a Road Trip in Provence

This is admittedly a more and more difficult question over the years, if you’re trying to catch the lavender in bloom. In 2019 our trip dates were 4-9 July, and by the last days we were passing lavender fields that had already been harvested. As blooming periods are shifting earlier, I would recommend the last week of June and first week of July for optimal lavender visiting. However, there are plenty of non-lavender related activities to do in Provence, so don’t worry if you can’t make it there during this period!

How to Get There

BY TRAIN : It’s only a 2h45 TGV ride from Paris Gare de Lyon to Avignon TGV, and 3h09 to Aix-en-Provence TGV (be aware, if you’re looking to base yourself in either Avignon or Aix, these two stations are located a ways out of the center of town- you’ll need to take another train or rent a car to get there).

If you’re coming from Paris, this is by far the easiest option. We chose Avignon because there are multiple car rental locations within the train station complex, and it only took a little while before we had the keys and were on our way.

Check out train ticket options HERE (booking through Omio will give me a little commission, and their customer service is great- I once got strep throat and had to cancel a train the day before my trip and easily got the majority of my money back).

BY PLANE : The largest international airport in the center of the Provence region is Aéroport Marseille Provence, located in Marignane next to Marseille down on the coast. From there, you can take a free shuttle bus from the airport’s bus station (platform/quai 5) to the train station Vitrolles Aeroport Marseille Provence. The buses run every 10-15 minutes. From the train station, take a TER (regional train) up to Avignon (18.30€) or Aix-en-Provence (11.90€). There is a small regional airport near Avignon but your flight options will be limited.

BY CAR : From Paris, take the A6 highway towards Lyon and then the A7 from Lyon to Avignon (around a 7 hour drive, traffic permitting). Once you approach Avignon, follow signs for the D900- many of the villages and lavender fields are located off of this route.

How to Get Around

As great at the train systems are, for a road trip in Provence, renting a car is non-negotiable. You’ll get the most out of the trip if you can make your own itinerary and have the freedom to change it at will- we spent a lot of time pulling over next to random fields and often changed destination at the drop of a hat. Additionally, most of the locations you’ll want to stop at (and nearly all in this guide) are only accessible by car.

Where to Stay

Airbnb is the way to go in this region, as many people rent out their summer homes when not staying there, and you can find some incredible places for great prices. We stayed in one which I unfortunately can’t recommend as we weren’t huge fans (though it served its purpose), but I found a few others in the area that have great reviews!

All photos courtesy of Airbnb. Links: Photo 1 , Photo 2 , Photo 3

Can’t-Miss Spots

(vaucluse, luberon and alpes de haute provence).

Oppède-le-Vieux : This adorable hilltop village in the Luberon is accessible to tourists only by foot; leave your car in the parking lot at the bottom of the hill and make the 10-15 minute well-marked trek up through the woods and olive groves. Once at the top, you can wander the cobblestone streets in the shadow of the remains of a 12th-century chateau, discovering the restored 15th and 16th century houses and workshops.

Colorado Provençal- - Road Trip in Provence

Colorado Provençal : Before you ask- yes, it’s named for the state! These former ochre quarries, like the ones in Roussillon, were mined for the natural pigments in the clay between 1871 and 1993 (over 20 different shades in the Colorado Provençal alone).

They’re now a protected historical monument and can be visited from February through December, with two paths (one long, one short) that will take you through the quarries to marvel at the natural beauty of the site, despite its heavily industrial past.

It will cost you 5€ to park your car in the lot at the entrance to the quarries, and opening times vary depending on the month. You can find the most up-to-date information on the hours and prices HERE .

Roussillon : This charming village is unlike most you’ll find in the south of France, with its buildings dyed orange and red thanks to the ochre found in the local clay. It won’t take you long to wander its streets and explore, as it’s quite small, with a population of only around 1300 people. The real attraction lies outside of the village.

A few minutes’ walk from the center of town, you’ll find yourself at the start of the Sentier des Ocres, a set of paths which will take you through the ochre quarries (one takes about 30 minutes, the other around 60 minutes). The colors here are less diverse of those in the Colorado Provençal but no less spectacular, especially at the end of the day when the light turns golden and hits it just right.

Entry will cost you 3€, and opening hours vary by season (find them HERE ). After visiting the quarries, head back into town and grab an ice cream to eat while sitting by the town hall (pictured above).

Plateau de Valensole : No summer road trip in Provence is complete these days without a stop at the lavender fields in Valensole, easily the most famous and popular in the region. The most photographed fields are those of Lavandes Angelvin, off of the D6-Route de Manosque highway. Not only are there lavender fields, there are also sunflower fields for a bit of diversity in your photos.

Because of its popularity, there’s now a large designated parking area across the highway from the fields, making it quite easy to stop for photos. Be careful crossing however as cars don’t really slow down- I saw quite a few tourists nearly get hit.

Tip: If you do decide to stop here, be sure to get here early to avoid the crowds (although there still will be crowds)! If you’re looking for fields with no people around, I recommend continuing east on the D6 past the village of Valensole- you’ll find many views with the Alps in the background (see the first picture in this post).

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie - Road Trip in Provence

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie : Built into a cliffside over the western edge of the Gorges de Verdon, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is known not only as one of the most beautiful villages of France but also for its production of faïence , which is pottery covered with a white tin glaze and often decorated with colorful motifs on top.

There’s a spring that flows from the cliff, creating a waterfall through the village, a means of hydroelectric power for its inhabitants, and a place to refill your water bottle after climbing up and down the hilly streets. The Chapel Notre-Dame de Beauvoir, perched above the village, is a historical monument and accessible via the Way of the Cross, a pathway with 262 steps leading up the cliff.

Gorges du Verdon : Known for its stunning, naturally turquoise water, the Gorges de Verdon and Lac de Sainte-Croix have become an increasingly popular summer destination for French and visitors alike. It gets its color from the minerals in the water.

The most famously photographed view, pictured above, is from the Pont du Galetas on the D957 highway, which sits just above where the Verdon River feeds into the Lac de Sainte-Croix. The D957 will take you all around the lake, and there are plenty of little beaches to stop at- I recommend heading further south away from the bridge to avoid the crowds, unless you want to rent a canoe or paddleboat.

However, for the picture above, there are parking lots on either side of the bridge, and a big sidewalk so you can stop and admire the gorgeous scenery.

Simiane-la-Rotonde- Road Trip in Provence

Simiane-la-Rotonde : Inspired by a photo on my friend Mary’s Instagram , once I saw that Simiane-la-Rotonde was only 20 minutes away from our Airbnb, I knew we had to go! A few fields are around the village, though some are private property (please don’t trespass for the sake of a photo!). We chose this one for the great view of the village in the background.

Tip : if you’re looking for the best light, come a little over an hour before sunset, as the sun goes down behind the village from this angle.

Fun story though: I was aiming to come when the sun was at a certain height, and it wasn’t quite low enough when we arrived, so we thought we’d go park and walk around the village. As we drove up, we saw white smoke billowing above the rooftops, and discovered that a building was on fire and the road into the village was closed! Hoping no one was hurt, but with nothing we could do, we decided to drive to Sault to check out the nearby fields, and then stopped here on our way back.

Gordes : While it has gotten admittedly more touristy in recent years, it’s for good reason- Gordes is one of the most picturesque and lovely villages in the Vaucluse department. Driving into the village, there’s a clearly marked lookout point, from which you’ll find the view pictured above.

The commune dates back over a thousand years to the Roman empire, and the chateau was built in 1031. It was also an active resistance center during WWII, and was bombed in 1944 due to the resistance efforts. Strolling the streets today and marvelling at the views over the surrounding countryside, or relaxing poolside at La Bastide de Gordes, it’s hard to imagine the wonders and horrors this village has seen.

Tip : If you’re looking for the best light and the fewest people, come in the morning- the photo above was taken around 6:30am. Head to Le Cercle Républicain afterwards for a coffee and a hot croissant or pain au chocolat (they get them from the local boulangerie). They open at 7:30 and have an adorable little balcony with a couple of tables overlooking the surrounding landscape- the perfect spot for a morning bite.

Abbaye de Sénanque : This beautiful little abbey is tucked away behind the village of Gordes and surrounded by lavender fields, which are tended by the abbey’s monks. They also raise honey bees, and sales of their honey and lavender help cover their living expenses and building maintenance.

Unfortunately, due to overzealous tourists trampling the lavender in their quest for the perfect photo, the lavender fields are surrounded by high fences, making many of the angles you’ve seen on Instagram now impossible. However, it’s still worth a visit if you’re also visiting Gordes, just to see its beauty! You can also visit the abbey itself (see visiting hours and entry fees HERE ) or buy a jar of delicious lavender honey from the monastic shop.

Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt- Road Trip in Provence

Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt : With its charmingly colorful streets and medieval castle ruins, Saint-Saturnin is both idyllic and interesting- not just a spot to stop for photos, but a place where you can climb the cobblestone steps and stand where people once stood nearly a thousand years ago.

The château ruins and restored chapel that sit on the hilltop date back to 1056, and the dam next to it was built in 1863 as a water source for the village. From this vantage point you can admire the rooftops, the steeple of the Saint-Étienne church, and the 17th century windmills. Down in the village, don’t miss the 3 gorgeous doors that are listed as historic monuments.

Tip : I recommend stopping for a meal at Le Saint Hubert – we went for brunch/lunch and it was the best omelette of my life (be sure to tell Lise and Eric that I sent you!).

What to Bring Back

Market baskets & other local goodies : The Marché d’Apt is one of the area’s biggest and best markets, for food as well as other souvenirs. We headed there to stock up on fresh produce, and of course made a stop at a few other stands as well. You can buy classic French market baskets (ironically most of which are made in Morocco), local honey, sachets of dried lavender, jams and spreads made with local ingredients, and massive jugs of olive oil. My item of choice was a small woven straw purse (I already own two market baskets) to replace my other summer bag whose handle had just broken.

Wine : If you’re road tripping in Provence, you absolutely must heed the signs at the sides of the road alerting you to the fact that a winery is nearby. There’s a huge variety of options for Provençal wine depending on the types of grapes- some domaines have many different choices, others are smaller family farms that offer just two or three each of whites, reds, and rosés.

When you stop, you’ll be taken into their designated tasting area- a cool, humid wine cave attached to their home for some, a large counter with uniformed staff for others. You’re encouraged to taste as many wines as you wish, and you’ll be able to buy bottles for close to wholesale prices. And of course, DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE!

Some of our favorites from the trip:

Domaine de Tara (we learned about this one from Le Saint Hubert- great sparkling rosé!)

Domaine de la Citadelle (probably the most “established” of the ones we visited)

Domaine du Puy Marquis (not the friendliest welcome but great dry rosés and a scenic drive to get here)

Domaine de Grand Saint-Julien (pictured above- there is a friendly dog and some adorable cats here!)

I’ve put together a handy map to help you find all the locations on this list!

Have you ever taken a road trip in Provence? What would you add to this list?

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France by Car

If you have wheels, wanderlust, and some free time, there’s nothing like a road trip to make you appreciate the diversity of the country at a more relaxed pace. A road trip in France ticks all the boxes of epic drives, amazing food, friendly people, beautiful culture, and some of Europe’s most gorgeous sights. Plus, French road trips are fun!

From the Alps to the French Riviera, from the Atlantic Ocean to cute medieval villages inland, France by car means unforgettable routes that will plunge you straight into the country’s heart and soul.

We’ve taken many road trips through France, and you can find more France road trip ideas here . For this post, however, we asked other experienced travelers and friends to help us complete the list of the very best road trips in France, so if you are looking to plan a France road trip, where’s what and where we recommend.

Plan your Trip to France

After traveling consistently for over 10 years, we’ve come to trust and rely on a few websites to help us find the best deals on flights, transportation, and accommodation.

Transportation: Omio is the first place we check when searching for cheap flights. It searches hundreds of sites for the best fare and includes both standard and budget airlines. We use Omio or Trainline to book our train tickets; both sites are good, with lots of information in English.

Accommodation: Booking.com offers savings on hotels, furnished apartments, and villas in 80,000 destinations worldwide. You can browse hotel reviews and find the guaranteed best price on hotels for all budgets.

Car Rental: Discover Cars is a great site because it takes all of the major rental companies, such as Hertz, Avis, etc., and more, and makes the comparison of prices for you. This helps to ensure that you get a great price without all the time and work.

Travel Insurance: We never travel abroad without a travel insurance policy because it’s not worth the risk! We use and trust Safety Wing , which we’ve used since its launch. Safety Wing is marketed as insurance for nomads, but you can use it also for short trips. Since April 2019, Safety Wing covers COVID-19 and unexpected quarantines for new policies too!

30 Ideas for an Unforgettable Road Trip in France

If you are looking for an epic road trip, France has it all to make you happy. Here’s an ultimate guide to the best road trips in France, suitable for all types of travelers. These phenomenal France road trip itineraries can be easily combined, shortened, or extended.

1. Alsace Wine Route

Duration: 6 days
Suggested route: Mulhouse – Colmar – Strasbourg
Region covered: Grand Est
Best for: sightseeing, small towns, nature, landscapes, French wine

The Alsace Wine Route is one of the oldest and most famous wine routes in France. This France road trip itinerary from Mulhouse to Strasbourg takes 6 days, and it is the perfect road trip for those who love pretty small towns, picturesque landscapes, and wine – Click here to rent a car in Mulhouse

This French road trip starts in Mulhouse , where you will book a hotel for one night. Hotel Bristol is super central and comfortable, and it has secure parking at a small extra cost.

Stroll around Mulhouse’s Old Town with beautiful architecture. Mulhouse has two great museums, La Cité de l’Automobile and La Cité du Train . Depending on your interests and the time available in Mulhouse, visit one museum or both.

From Mulhouse, drive to Colmar and book a hotel for three nights. The James Boutique Hotel is central and with beautiful and cozy rooms and common spaces.

Take the time to explore Colmar’s pretty streets and historical sights; Colmar is the most beautiful town in Alsace! In Colmar, the Museum of Alsatian Wines is an excellent introduction to the wines of Alsace .

Use Colmar as a base to explore the beautiful town of Kaysersberg on day 3 and the towns of Riquewihr plus Eguisheim on day 4, combining sightseeing with wine tastings. Riquewihr and Eguisheim are very small, so if you start early in the morning, you can also squeeze in a short hike through the surrounding vineyards.

On day 5, drive from Colmar to Strasbourg , where you will spend your last two nights of this road trip France. For this last stop, we recommend the Hotel Cathédrale , with incredible views over the Strasbourg Cathedral and public parking available nearby.

Before arriving in Strasbourg , stop at the impressive Château de Haut-Koenisgsbourg , one of the best castles in France . Then in Strasbourg , use this Strasbourg itinerary for two days which covers the city’s main sights.

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Best of Alsace Road Trip

2. Paris to Nice Road Trip

Duration: 7 to 10 days
Suggested route: Paris – Lyon – Valence – Avignon – Marseille – Nice
Region covered: Ile-de-France, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Best for: sightseeing, food, and wine

This road trip from Paris to South of France is one of the best road trips France has to offer to admire its diversity of landscapes and cities. It takes ten days, and it is an ideal road trip for those who love history, architecture, food, and good wine – Click here to rent a car in Paris

Arrive in Paris and book a hotel for three nights. The Handsome Hotel by Elegancia is super comfortable and is situated close to the main sights. Spend four days in Paris , dedicating one of these days to visiting Versailles .

From Paris, drive to Beaune , where you will spend one night. On the way, you can visit Auxerre , which is a beautiful Burgundian village with some wonderful historic sights. For a night in Beaune, book at the Hostellerie Cèdre & Spa located in a beautiful historical building in the center of Beaune.

Continue south to Lyon , where you are going to sleep for one night. Hotel de l’Abbaye is an authentic spot, intimate, and full of charms. In Lyon , take the time to visit the Old Town and its famous Traboules and climb up to Fourvière Hill for some fresh air and great views.

From Lyon, drive to Avignon in Provence. Spend one day in Avignon visiting the Palace of the Popes and other sights, and tasting the local cuisine. Hotel Central is a great option for your night in Avignon.

From Avignon, continue south to Marseille , where we recommend spending at least two days. For your time in Marseille, have a look at this Marseille 2-day itinerary and pick the sights and activities you like most. The hotel La Résidence du Vieux Port has the perfect location for your visit to Marseille.

The last stop of this road trip through France is Nice , where you can use this list of the best things to do in Nice to visit the city. Hotel La Pérouse Nice Baie des Anges is a great option and comes with the best view of Nice, over the Baie des Anges.

3. Normandy Road Trip

Duration: 5 days
Suggested route: Paris –Rouen – Etretat – Honfleur – Cabourg
Region covered: Normandy
Best for: history, small towns, seaside resorts

This 5-day Normandy road trip is a good combination of history, sightseeing, and relaxing walks. This France roadtrip through Normandy starts from Paris and covers some of the most beautiful sights in the Normandy region – Click here to rent a car in Paris

The first stop of this road trip from Paris is Giverny to visit Monet’s House and Garden. Then, in the afternoon, head to Les Andelys to explore this picturesque town and the Château Gaillard , one of the best castles in Normandy . This medieval fortress, built in the 12th century under the rule of King Richard the Lionheart, is located on the top of a high cliff, and it dominates one of the meanders of the Seine Valley.

After exploring Les Andelys, drive to Rouen , where you will spend the next two nights. For your stay in Rouen, book at the Best Western Plus Hotel Litteraire Gustave Flaubert , a central hotel inspired by the French poet born and raised in this city.

The second day is dedicated to visiting Rouen , which boasts the best Medieval center in all of France and an impressive Gothic cathedral.

On the third day, drive from Rouen to Étretat through the beautiful Parc Naturel Régional des Boucles de la Seine. On the way, stop at Jumièges Abbey to visit the ruins of this magnificent building. In the afternoon, visit Étretat , a picturesque town on the Alabaster Coast and world-famous for its impressive chalky cliffs. For a unique stay in Étretat, Domaine Saint Clair – Le Donjon is an excellent option, located 500m from the beach.

Day 4 of this Normandy road trip explores Honfleur . This pretty coastal town on the Seine’s estuary is one of Normandy’s top places to visit . For your night in Honfleur, book at Villa du Cèdre , a property full of charm with a garden and swimming pool.

The last day of this French road trip explores two of the most beautiful seaside resorts of the Côte Fleurie: Deauville and Cabourg . Both towns are well known for their beautiful sandy beaches and Belle Époque villas.

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4. Champagne Road Trip

Duration: 4 days
Suggested route: Paris –Reims – Epernay – Troyes – Provins
Regions covered: Grand-Est, Ile-de-France
Best for: history, small towns, champagne wine

This Champagne road trip is another beautiful roadtrip France has to offer. It explores the historical region of Champagne , well known for its rolling hills, historical sites, and sparkling wine with the same name. This France road trip itinerary is a good combination of sightseeing, beautiful landscapes, and (of course) champagne – Click here to rent a car in Paris

On day one, drive from Paris to Reims. On the way, do a short stop at La Ferté sous Jouarre . This small town, and more precisely, its abbey, hosts two wonderful Merovingian crypts from the 7th century listed as Historical Monuments.

Dedicate the rest of the day to exploring Reims , the capital of Champagne, with many historical gems to visit. The city is well known for its Gothic cathedral, the coronation place for most of the Kings of France. For your night in Reims, we recommend the Domaine Les Crayères , a mythical property in the city nestled in seven hectares of park, 300m from Pommery Champagne House. Once the car is well parked, you can explore the best champagne houses in Reims .

Day two of this road trip through the Champagne region explores Epernay and its surroundings. Epernay is best known as the main “warehouse” for champagne wines – here are the best champagne houses in Epernay . Not far from Epernay, there’s the Abbey of Hautvillers , where Dom Perignon is buried. Dom Perignon (1638-1715) was a Benedictine monk credited with the revolutionary champagne method, which transforms a still wine (without bubbles) into sparkling wine.

Leave Epernay direction to Troyes and stop at Château d’Etoges for the night. This lovely château-hotel in the heart of the vineyards of Champagne has individually decorated rooms with period furniture and magnificent grounds.

On the third day of this Champagne road trip visit Troyes . This city was one of France’s most important fair towns during medieval times, a center for hosiery and cloth making. Stroll around the Old Town and admire its beautiful architecture of half-timbered houses.

After exploring Troyes, drive west to Provins, where you will spend one night. For your stay in Provins, book at Demeure des Vieux Bains , a stunning historical property with comfortable rooms and beautiful gardens.

During the last day of this French road trip, explore Provins , another medieval fair town. Provins is well-known for its Medieval festival (yearly, in June) and its underground city, a vast network of tunnels and passages from the 13th century that connected all the houses.

5. Cathar Country Road Trip

Château de Peyrepertuse - Cathar Country, France

Duration: 5 to 6 days
Suggested route: Carcassonne – Cucugnan – Narbonne – Carcassonne
Regions covered: Occitanie
Best for: history, medieval châteaux, small towns

This Cathar Country road trip from Carcassone in Southern France takes five to six days and is the best road trip in France for those who love history, Medieval castles, and small towns. For the history of the Cathar and a complete description of the Cathar sites, check out the road trip’s detailed itinerary – Click here to rent a car in Carcassone

Arrive at Carcassone and book a hotel for two nights. Mercure Carcassonne La Cité is super comfortable and has a refreshing swimming pool. The hotel also boasts amazing views of the walled citadel from the garden and some rooms.

Take a day to explore the medieval Cité de Carcassonne , one of the most important Cathar sites and one of the main targets during the first Cathar Crusade in 1209.

Day 2 of this road trip France visits the charming Medieval town of Mirepoix , and Château de Monségur , where the last Cathars who did not surrender were burnt alive. Spend the night at the Logis Auberge du Vigneron , in Cucugnan , with fabulous views of the surrounding valley.

On day 3, visit Château de Peyrepertuse and Château de Quéribus , two fabulous hilltop fortresses and Cathar sites. Then drive to Fontjoncouse , a gorgeous oh-so typical French village in the heart of the Aude department conveniently located close to the next Cathar sites. Book a room (or a full cottage) for one night at Le Petit Clos , a charming guesthouse with a swimming pool, terrace, and garden.

The next day of this roadtrip France visits Fontfroide Abbey and the Medieval village of Lagrasse with the Benedictine Abbey of St Mary of Orbieu . Both abbeys had an important role in the Cathar crusades, and they are interesting to visit.

On the last day of this Cathar road trip, drive to Minerve, a pretty medieval village where you can see a replica of one of the catapults used by the Crusaders. Then, visit Châteaux de Lastours , one of the best castles in Southern France , before driving back to Carcassonne. Châteaux de Lastours is an ensemble of four Cathar castles with a spectacular setting at the top of a rocky spur.

6. Route des Grands Crus, Bourgogne

Suggested route: Beaune – Vougeot – Dijon
Regions covered: Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Best for: sightseeing, landscapes, small towns, food, and wine.

The Route des Grands Crus is one of the best road trips in France for wine lovers. This Burgundy road trip from Beaune to Dijon takes four days and is an ideal road trip for those who enjoy small towns and beautiful landscapes – Click here to rent a car in Beaune

Arrive at Beaune the day before and book a hotel for 2 nights. Château de Challanges , a gorgeous 19th-century country house set in 7 hectares, is perfect for a relaxing stay.

Take a day to explore Medieval Beaune, the capital of wines of Burgundy. Be sure to cover Les Hospices de Beaune , a jewel of Burgundian architecture, and La Maison des Climats to learn more about the (wine) climats of Burgundy.

From Beaune, drive to Vougeot , where you will spend one night. For something special, book at Château de Gilly , a 14th-16th century château with moats, French-style gardens, and a dining room with a magnificent vaulted ceiling.

On the way to Vougeot, stop at Nuits-Saint-Georges , a lively small town with a long history of wine-making. Visit the town, and perhaps a domain or two for some wine tastings.

In the afternoon, visit the Abbey of Cîteaux , the founder of the Cistercian order in France. It was its abbot who spotted the best kind of soils and selected certain grape varieties, improving the quality of the wines.

On day 3, visit the Château Clos de Vougeot , a must of any Burgundy wine route. In the 14th century, the monks of the Abbey of Cîteaux built the first walls separating vineyards, known as clos , contributing like this to the promotion of the wines of the region. Clos de Vougeot was the first clos built by the monks, and the visit reveals the winemaking genius of the monks in the Middle Ages.

In the afternoon, drive to Gevrey-Chambertin , a small village home to nine Burgundy Grands Crus, perfect for a stroll and some wine tastings. Then, drive to Dijon, where you will spend one night. The Grand Hotel La Cloche Dijon is a good option, conveniently located close to all the main attractions.

On the last day of this French road trip, visit Dijon , the historical capital of Burgundy. Dijon was home to the Dukes of Burgundy, and as such, it has an interesting cultural and architectural heritage. Follow the owl trail, which takes you to Dijon’s main sights, like the Hôtel des Ducs de Bourgogne , built in the 14th-15th centuries.

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7. Road Trip through the Jura, Eastern France

Suggested route: Paris – Baume-les-Messieurs – Château-Chalon – Dole
Best for: landscapes, small towns, hiking

This road trip through the Jura takes four days, and it is the ideal road trip for those who love nature and good food & wine. This Jura road trip covers the region of the lakes and waterfalls of the Jura (a department of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté in Eastern France), and is one of the best road trips from Paris for nature lovers – Click here to rent a car in Paris

From Paris, drive to Baume-Les-Messieurs , a picturesque village in the heart of a blind valley. Take a stroll to explore the village and its main sights, and then head to the Cascade des Tufs , one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Jura.

For the first night, book a hotel in one of the villages nearby. La Maison du Lac Chalain , in Doucier, is a good option, and it has an excellent restaurant perfect for tasting the regional cuisine.

The second day is dedicated to exploring some of the best lakes and waterfalls of the Jura. The hike to the Belvédère des 4 lacs and Pic de l’Aigle (12 Km) is one of the area’s main highlights. If you start the day early, you can also hike to the Cascades du Hérisson , a beautiful 4 km trail that links many waterfalls.

Then drive to Château-Chalon , another pretty village in the Jura, where you are going to spend the night. Les Relais des Abbesses is a beautiful, historical property in the heart of the village, and it has a terrasse with magnificent views over the Jurassic plateau.

Spend the morning of the third day visiting Château-Chalon , one of the villages with the label ‘most beautiful villages in France.’ In the afternoon, head to Dole, which was the capital of the County of Burgundy until its annexation to the Kingdom of France.

Dole is a picturesque city bordered by the Doubs River, a city of canals and interesting architecture from the 16th century. Dole’s Old Town is a confusion of alleyways edged by Renaissance homes with turrets and courtyards. Book a night at Hotel de la Cloche , a charming property with an excellent location for exploring the city on the last day of this road trip.

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8. Loire Valley Road Trip from Nantes

Suggested route: Nantes – Saumur – Amboise – Angers
Regions covered: Pays de la Loire and Centre Val de Loire
Best for: Renaissance châteaux, small towns, French wine

This Loire Valley road trip from Nantes Airport takes five days and visits some of the best Loire Valley Castles . This itinerary through the Loire Valley is one of the best French road trips for history and architecture lovers – Click here to rent a car at Nantes Airport

Arrive at Nantes Airport and drive about 90 minutes to Saumur , where you will book a hotel for two nights. Hotel St. Pierre is super comfortable, has a great historical feel, and is situated right on the main square. Dine at Michelin-starred Le Gambetta to treat yourself to an amazing French meal.

From Saumur, drive to Château d’Usse (the castle that inspired Sleeping Beauty) with a stop at Château Miniere for a walk among the vines and some wine tasting on the way. The sumptuous and artistic gardens at Château Villandry are also a must-see and easily accessible from Saumur.

Continue east along the Loire Valley to Amboise for two nights. Hotel Le Manoir St. Thomas is a great choice of hotel and even features a suit of armor to guard the lobby. Amboise is home to the Royal Château d’Amboise and the Clos Luce , where Da Vinci spent the final years of his life.

From Amboise, drive to the Loire Valley’s most iconic chateaux: Château Chenonceau and Château Chambord . Enjoy dinner in Blois , followed by the exciting light show after dark at Château Royal de Blois .

On the return to Nantes Airport, break up the more than 3-hour drive with a stop in Angers to see the Apocalypse Tapestries at Château d’Angers . Château d’Angers resembles a menacing fortress rather than an elegant château and is an excellent counterpoint to the other places visited during this Loire Valley Itinerary.

By Jennifer (aka Dr. J) | Sidewalk Safari

Road Trip Castles of the Loire Valley

9. West Coast of France Road Trip

Duration: 10 days
Suggested route: Etretat – Ile de Ré – Bordeaux – Biarritz
Regions covered: Normandy and Nouvelle Aquitaine
Best for: architecture, sightseeing, nature, and landscapes

Stunning landscapes, old cities, and historically important places are all part of a road trip along the west coast of France. Whether you camp or stay in hotels, this France roadtrip will be epic.

Start this road trip through France’s western coast in Étretat , known for its huge chalk cliffs. Enjoy a breathtaking walk on the cliffs and finish off with a delicious seafood dish in one of the seafront restaurants of this pleasant village.

The next stop is the WW2 beaches of D-day , such as Utah Beach and Omaha Beach. Visiting this place will leave an everlasting impression. The last stop in Normandy is Mont Saint-Michel , the Medieval abbey that speaks to anyone’s imagination. It is built on a rock in the sea and can only be reached by a bridge during high tide. For a magical experience, book a night in one of the hotels inside Mont Saint-Michel .

This road trip through the west coast skips the region of Brittany. The next stop of this itinerary is the island of Ile-de-Ré in the region of Nouvelle Aquitaine.

Ile-de-Ré is a fantastic small Island, right off the coast, reachable by a toll bridge. The island is known for oysters, the local drink Pinot, salt production, and the lighthouse watching over its rugged coastline. Rent a bike, as this is the main way of transport on the island.

After 1 or 2 days visiting Bordeaux , continue your journey to Arcachon and Dune du Pilat . This dune is the highest and biggest sand dune in Europe! Walking across it will give you the feeling of being in a desert. Enjoy the sunset on top of the dune while watching over the Bassin of Arcachon. A moment you’ll never forget.

End this west coast of France road trip with a visit to Biarritz , close to the Spanish border, and go surf in the Atlantic waters.

By Hellen | the Global Wizards

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10. Gorges du Verdon Road Trip

Duration: 3 days
Suggested route: Aix-en-Provence – Valensole – Verdon Natural Regional Park
Regions covered: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Best for: nature and landscapes

If you are looking for South of France road trips, you will love this itinerary from Aix-en-Provence to the Verdon Natural Regional Park , which is considered one of the most scenic drives in France – Click here to rent a car in Aix-en-Provence

Did you know that there was a Grand Canyon in France? Yep. Well, it’s not as big as the one in the US, but when you get there, you’ll have the same feeling. It’s called the Gorges du Verdon , and it’s a stunning rocky landscape with towering cliffs, where a turquoise-green river meanders at the bottom.

To start this Gorges du Verdon road trip , you can drive from Aix-en-Provence or any nearby major cities: Marseille, Nice, or even Cannes. The trip takes three days to complete, with one day in Valensole and the lavender fields, one day driving around the different lakes, and one day driving the epic road on top of the Gorges du Verdon. Here are the major stops on this trip:

– Valensole is famous for its lavender fields , which bloom from the end of June to the end of July. Valensole is a cute little village where you can spend the night after exploring the fields around.

– Esparron de Verdon , and Lac Quinson de Verdon , are two small lakes with absolutely no crowds. Lac Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon is the main lake in the area and the perfect place to stop for a while and relax on the beach.

– Gorges du Verdon is the main attraction around here, France’s Grand Canyon. Drive on top of the gorges on an epic scenic route ( Route des Crêtes ), and enjoy one of the most beautiful landscapes in France.

– Sillans la Cascade . Before you leave, check out this secret waterfall, it is absolutely worth the trip!

One of the best places to establish your home base while exploring the area is the village of Valensole, for the ultimate traditional French experience. The bed & breakfast Les Terrasses de Valensole is exceptional.

By Kevin | Kevmrc

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11. Gorges du Tarn Road Trip

Suggested route: Millau – La Malène – Florac
Regions covered: Occitanie, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Best for: nature, landscapes, and small towns

Les Gorges du Tarn is another beautiful south of France road trip. This 4-day itinerary will take you through The Causses, and The Cévennes , a region that offers the ultimate scenery for an amazing French road trip, from deep gorges with hairpin bends to wide-open pastoral landscapes. Because of its uniqueness, the region has been included on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites List.

This road trip in France starts and ends in Millau . On the first day, visit the world’s tallest bridge – Millau Viaduct –, and the tiny village of Payre . Stay the first night in Millau and use the evening to explore this beautiful Medieval city. Hotel des Causses in Millau is comfortable, central, and has an on-site restaurant.

The next day head to the heart of the Gorges du Tarn . The road (D809, D907, and D907bis) follows the bends of the River Tarn, which has cut deeply into the cliffs forming this stunning canyon. You’ll be passing through lots of lovely villages along the Tarn.

At Les Vignes, take the D46 road to Point Sublime , from where you will have the most breathtaking view over the canyon. Go back to Les Vignes and follow the road towards La Malène . On the way, stop at Pas de Soucy for some more amazing views.

You can stay the second night at La Malène. The Hotel Le Manoir de Montesquiou is a beautiful and historical building with a great location in the middle of the Gorge area.

On day 3, head to Sainte-Enimie – a postcard beautiful village. On the way, you can stop at Saint-Chélly-du-Tarn . After Sainte-Enimie, continue to Florac , where you can spend the third night. Grand Hotel du Parc has a perfect and relaxing setting in the Cévennes National Park.

The next day take D16 and D63 to the famous cave Aven Armand. You’ll be crossing Causse Méjean , a plateau with a totally different landscape from the canyons. After the cave, stop at the nearby Medieval Farm to learn more about the local traditions in this area ( Ferme Caussenarde d’Autrefois ).

Afterward, continue to Meyrueis on D986. When you arrive at Meyrueis, take D996 to Le Rozier. Follow the road along the canyon on La Jonte River – Gorges de la Jonte . Stop at Le Rozier and Peyrelau – two lovely places where the La Jonte River flows into the Tarn River. Afterward, continue to Millau, the end of this road trip.

By Daniela | Ipanema Travels

12. French Riviera Road Trip

Duration: 7-10 days
Suggested route: Cannes – Antibes – Nice – Monaco
Best for: landscapes, and sightseeing

This French Riviera road trip from Cannes follows one of the best drive routes through France, with the French Riviera coastline being dotted with picturesque towns and pristine coves along the way – Click here to rent a car in Cannes

One of the best starting points for this France road trip along the Côte d’Azur is Cannes , a city filled with glitz and glamour that will make you feel as though you’ve arrived in the French Riviera in style! Book one night or two in the Hotel Croisette Beach Cannes soaking up the atmosphere and visiting Cannes’ top sights before moving on towards Nice.

On your way to Nice, you might want to stop off in Antibes . This is a lovely place to unwind after the buzz of Cannes, and you can enjoy a relaxing lunch and spend your afternoon at the Picasso Museum . If you want to hike the Cap d’Antibes and spend an extra day on the beach, consider staying a night in Antibes itself.

Next, you’ll drive to Nice , where you can explore the city’s narrow streets, bustling markets, and ochre-colored architecture. For your stay in Nice, book at Hotel Locarno , which has an excellent location 200 m from the beach and offers the best breakfast ever.

After spending 2 days in Nice and around, you can drive on to Monaco , stopping off at the medieval village of Eze and perhaps Villefranche-sur-Mer . You can then choose whether you want to stay in Monaco for a chic casino break or move on to Menton , a small foodie town on the French /Italian border.

The distances between the destinations are relatively short, so you can easily tick off two places in one day. We would suggest spending at least seven days on this French Riviera road trip, but of course, you can spend much longer delving into this stunning French region.

By Chrisoula | Historic European Castles

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And there you have it, our favorite road trips in France to inspire your next trip. Check out our Road Trips category for the detailed itineraries and more French road trip ideas.

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Your Perfect Week in Provence: The Ultimate 7-Day Road Trip Itinerary
Days 3-4: Gorges du Verdon to Cassis (128 miles) While it might be tempting to sleep in, this morning's destination is worth waking up early for. Just 40 minutes away lies the village of Valensole, or "Valley of the Sun"—the very definition of Provence. Pastel-colored houses covered in antique shutters and wrought-iron balconies line ...
Road Trip in Provence
Duration: 10 days. Suggested route: Avignon - St Rémy - Arles - Camargue - Marseille - Cassis - Aix-en-Provence - Avignon. Total distance: 404 Km, 6 hrs 20 min drive in total. Region covered: Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. Best for: history, sightseeing, outdoors, small towns, food & wine. This road trip in Provence itinerary ...
5-day South of France itinerary: Provence road trip for nature lovers
Day 5: Calanques National Park, return to Avignon. On the final day of your 5-day South of France itinerary, get up early to visit the spectacular Calanques National Park . Extending along the coast between Cassis and Marseille, this national park is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking sights in Provence.
Only South of France Road Trip Itinerary in 7 Days You'll Ever Need
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.
South of France Itinerary
Day 1: Calanque de Sormiou + Goudes. Calanque De Sormiou. On the first day of our South of France itinerary, we visited one of the country's most beautiful natural wonders, the famous Calanques de Marseille - they are inlets formed in limestone cliffs but are also known as coastal fjords.
Provence Road Trip: 5 Day Itinerary through Provence's Cities & Towns
Day Four of Your Provence Road Trip: St.-Rémy, Les-Baux, and La Camargue Trace Vincent van Gogh's past in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a picturesque town with an immense importance in art history. In this little town, Vincent van Gogh lived in an asylum for a year. During this time, he created a staggering 150 works of ...
The best road trips in Provence
Etape 1 The Small Ports of Provence The stage is set - you're in the Mediterranean! Don your sunglasses and head to the port for a coffee on the terrace. The people at the table next to you enthusiastically comment about that day's catch. Intrigued, you order six sea urchins, the caviar of the Mediterranean that locals devour with a spoon.
The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Provence Itinerary
Creating a 5 to 7 days in Provence itinerary may seem daunting but with so much on offer, it would be easy to miss out on some hidden gems. Provence is one of the most enchanting regions in France. Located in the country's southeast, this picturesque region is known for its stunning landscapes, hilltop villages, and rich cultural heritage.
10-Day French Riviera & Provence Itinerary (+Local Tips)
Southern France Itinerary Priorities. 10-Day French Riviera & Provence Itinerary. Day 1: Fly Into Nice. Day 2: A Day Along the French Riviera. Day 3: Medieval Villages & Perfume (Saint-Paul-de-Vence) Day 4: La Madrague Coastal Hike (Local Gem) Where to Stay in Arles (7 nights) Day 5: Arles & Camargue.
Road Trip in Provence ᐈ Where To Stay In Provence With a Car?
+ Provence Road Trip Itinerary Ideas to Create Car Travel Routes Around Provence (Including Lavender Fields, Scenic Villages & the Verdon Gorge Experience) This post contains affiliate links to products and services, which help us earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps to fund this blog and to bring more great publications ...
Ultimate Provençal Road Trip
Ultimate Provençal Road Trip - 5 Days. View Map. Perhaps no other region encompasses France's exceptional beauty better than Provence. During this five-day self-drive itinerary, you'll experience the highlights with stops in emblematic cities such as Marseille and Aix-en-Provence, as well as traditional villages in the scenic countryside.
Your Dreamy 2-Week Road Trip Itinerary Through Provence
1 Day at Calanques National Park. Distance from Aix-en-Provence: 50km (~1 hour) The Calanques National Park extends from Marseille through Cassis to La Ciotat. Its beauty is truly unmatched with their limestone cliffs and turquoise waters! The calanques are a must visit if you're travelling through Provence.
Provence Road Trip: Marseille, Les Baux, Forcalquier, Sainte ...
Experience the highlights of France's Provence region, from the Mediterranean Sea to the Gorges du Verdon, with this 10-day road trip that perfectly combines outdoor activities with cultural tours. In between memorable experiences like hot-air balloon rides, sailing trips, and cooking classes, you'll have plenty of free time to explore lavender fields, charming villages, famous vineyards, and ...
An Off-the-Beaten-Path Provence Road Trip Filled With Art and Wildlife
Road Trip to Arles. ( Provence Road Trip Route: Highway D570N to Arles) Bicycling from Arles to Camargue is a popular route. Having embraced the journey, our Provence itinerary stops next in Arles. The tourist office, 9 Boulevard des Lices, proved to be a goldmine. Filled with brochures on things to do in Arles and tours to Camargue, we settled ...
Provence road trip itinerary blog
Provence road trip itinerary: Recommended Provence itinerary 5 days (5 days in Provence) If you want to go all Provence, perhaps a lifetime is not enough. For those of you who come here, don't have much time and still want to "steal" some good memories of the South of France, I would like to suggest a short Provence itinerary 3 or 5 days. ...
The Perfect Southern France Itinerary
Day 7 - Cassis and the Calanques. Stay: Aix-en-Provence. Cassis is a charming portside town tucked in between towering cliffs near Marseille on the Mediterranean coast. It's by far one of the more popular places to visit in the South of France due to its recent reputation as the new St Tropez.
Provence Road Trip: Food, Wine & Culture
Get behind the wheel in the South of France during this weeklong road trip through the Provence region. Starting in Marseille, you'll swim in the Mediterranean, tour cafés and vineyards in Aix en Provence, and explore a range of picturesque hilltop villages in the Luberon. At the end of each day, hang your hat on some of the most charming hotels in France while choosing between exquisite ...
The Ultimate Guide to a Summer Road Trip in Provence
The buses run every 10-15 minutes. From the train station, take a TER (regional train) up to Avignon (18.30€) or Aix-en-Provence (11.90€). There is a small regional airport near Avignon but your flight options will be limited. BY CAR: From Paris, take the A6 highway towards Lyon and then the A7 from Lyon to Avignon (around a 7 hour drive ...
The Ultimate Guide to Provence • The Blonde Abroad
Plus, it's only €8.50 per adult to visit and includes parking. After crossing the 48-meter high bridge, find a spot to set up your picnic. Enjoy a glass of wine and a swim as the sun sets over Avignon. It's truly a unique sight that you can't find anywhere else. Drive Back to Avignon: 30 Minute Drive Back to Avignon.
10 Days in Provence
With 10 days in Provence, you can take your time and enjoy the relaxed pace and beautiful scenery of one of France's most famous regions. Opt for a road trip with stops for hiking and a hot-air balloon ride, focus on wine country and the beach with a trip plan that includes a detour to the French Riviera, go on a luxury tour that features a private boat outing in Marseille, or explore Provence ...
Best French Road Trips
The last stop of this road trip through France is Nice, where you can use this list of the best things to do in Nice to visit the city. Hotel La Pérouse Nice Baie des Anges is a great option and comes with the best view of Nice, over the Baie des Anges. 3. Normandy Road Trip. Duration: 5 days.
5 Days in Provence
Itinerary #1: Ultimate Provençal Road Trip. Discover the history, culture, and cuisine of Provence—one of France's most popular regions—on this road trip through the region. A quiet street in Aix-en-Provence. Day. Highlights. Overnight. Day 1. Arrive in Marseille - Explore the City. Marseille.
1 Week in Provence
Itinerary #1: Provence Road Trip. Hit the road for this adventure around Provence that takes you to wineries, traditional villages, and a national park where you'll cruise through bays and inlets on a private boat tour. The trip starts in Marseille. You'll pick up a rental car on the first day, then make a side trip to Calanques National Park ...

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

The best time to do this South of France road trip

Driving in Provence

Day 1: Luberon villages and lavender fields

Roussillon & the Ochre Trail

Where to stay

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

Route des Crêtes Verdon

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Day 3: Cascade de Sillans & Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez

Day 4: La Ciotat, Parc du Mugel & Cassis

La Ciotat & Parc du Mugel

Day 5: Calanques National Park, return to Avignon

5-day Provence road trip map

Other places to include in your South of France road trip

5-day South of France itinerary: Final thoughts

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

What is Provence?

Summary of the Ultimate South of France Itinerary in 7 Days

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

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

Day 1: Avignon & Pont du Gard

Day 2: Avignon & Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Where to Stay in Avignon:

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

Day 4: Aix-en-Provence & Cassis

Where to Stay in Aix-en-Provence:

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

Day 5: Drive to Cannes & Explore

Day 6: Beach Day in Cannes

Where to Stay in Cannes:

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

Where to Stay in Nice:

Best Way to Get Around the South of France

When to Visit Provence For Your 7-Day Trip

Other Tips For Visiting Provence

Follow the journey!

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The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Provence Itinerary

How Many Days in Provence?

Getting To & Around Provence

5 to 7-Day Provence Itinerary

Day 1 – Aix-en-Provence

Where to Stay in Aix-en-Provence

Day 2 – Verdon & Lavender Fields

Day 3 – Calanques and Cassis

Day 4 – Luberon Valley Villages

Where to Stay in Avignon

Day 5 – Avignon

Day 6 – Arles & Camargue National Park

Day 7 – L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue

Have More Time?

Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Pont Du Gard & Nimes

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

French Riviera & Provence Itinerary

Southern France Itinerary Priorities

✔️ A More Authentic Provençal Vibe .

✔️ A Home Base to Explore.

✔️ More Time Sightseeing, Less Time Driving.

✔️ Culture, Nature, and Adventure

10-Day French Riviera & Provence Itinerary

Day 1: Fly Into Nice

Where to Stay in Nice (3 Nights)

Day 2: A Day Along the French Riviera

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

Day 4: La Madrague Coastal Hike (Local Gem)