PROVENCE
This region is a land of light, lavender, and ancient history, a place where Roman ruins stand in fields of sunflowers and turquoise waters lap against dramatic cliffs. This guide helps you discover the vibrant markets, timeless villages, and celebrated art of France’s sun-drenched heartland.
Why Visit Provence?
Idyllic Landscapes and Mediterranean Coast: Explore a stunning variety of scenery, from the fragrant lavender fields and olive groves to the dramatic gorges and beautiful beaches of the French Riviera.
Artistic and Historical Legacy: Discover the inspiration for artists like Cézanne and Van Gogh. Explore Roman amphitheaters, medieval towns, and papal palaces that tell the story of a rich past.
World-Class Food and Wine: Savor the flavors of Provençal cuisine—fresh seafood, aromatic herbs, and local produce—perfectly paired with the region’s famous rosé wines.
Smart Travel
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): This is the best time to visit for pleasant weather, ideal for exploring cities and villages without the intense summer heat or crowds. The lavender fields begin to bloom in late spring.
Deep Off-Season (November-March): You’ll find the best value on accommodation and a peaceful atmosphere. Many smaller restaurants and attractions may have limited hours, but it’s a great time for city breaks.
Peak Season (June-August): The weather is hot and sunny, and the region is at its most vibrant. Expect crowds and higher prices, especially in coastal areas and during the peak lavender bloom in July.
Main Areas & Places to Explore
The Luberon
This area is the quintessential Provence of postcards, famous for its hilltop villages and stunning rural landscapes. Gordes, Roussillon, and Bonnieux are must-see villages. The region is also known for its local markets and lavender fields.
Your Smart Tip: The lavender fields of the Valensole Plateau are most vibrant from late June to mid-July. Plan your visit during this short window to see the spectacular color.
Avignon & The Papal Palace
Avignon is a historic city on the Rhône River. Its stunning main attraction is the Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Europe’s largest medieval Gothic palaces. The city’s ancient bridge is also a sight to behold.
Your Smart Tip: To beat the summer crowds at the Papal Palace, visit first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon. Book your tickets online to save time.
Aix-en-Provence
Known as the city of a thousand fountains, Aix-en-Provence is a beautiful and sophisticated city with a lively student population. It’s the former home of painter Paul Cézanne and is famous for its elegant streets, markets, and charming cafés.
Your Smart Tip: The famous Provençal markets are a highlight. Arrive early on market days (Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday) to experience the vibrant atmosphere and get the best local produce before the crowds arrive.
The French Riviera & The Coastline
While technically part of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, the coast offers a different experience. From the glamour of Saint-Tropez to the stunning calanques (limestone inlets) between Cassis and Marseille, the coastline is breathtaking.
Your Smart Tip: For an unforgettable experience without the crowds, hike the trails along the Calanques National Park in spring or fall. The views are spectacular and the weather is ideal for a full day of walking.
Handy Tips
Weather & Climate
The climate is typically Mediterranean. Summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild. The Mistral, a strong, cold, and dry wind, can blow for days, especially in the Rhône Valley.
Local Customs And Etiquette
Language: While French is the official language, the local Provençal dialect is sometimes spoken. Many people speak English in tourist areas, but a few words of French will be appreciated.
Dining: Lunch is often the largest meal, with a two-hour break common. Dinner is usually later, starting around 8 p.m. Greet shopkeepers and restaurant staff with a friendly “Bonjour.”
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory, as a service charge is included in the bill. However, it is customary to leave a small tip (1-2 euros) for good service at cafés or a bit more at restaurants.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Accommodation: Hostels ($30–$60), mid-range hotels ($90–$180), luxury ($200+). Prices vary significantly by season and location.
Food: Fixed-price lunch menu ($20–$30), dinner at a mid-range restaurant ($35–$60 per person), fine dining ($80+).
Transport: Car rental ($40/day), train ticket (regional).
Activities: Museum entry ($10–$15), vineyard tour ($30+), boat tour of the calanques ($25–$50).
Daily Budget:
Budget: $80–$120 (hostels, market food, public transport)
Mid-range: $130–$200 (hotels, restaurants, attractions)
Luxury: $220+ (boutique hotels, gourmet meals, private tours)
Getting Around
By Car: A car is the most flexible way to explore the region’s rural landscapes, hilltop villages, and vineyards.
By Train: An efficient and scenic train network (TER) connects major cities and towns like Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Marseille.
By Bus: The regional bus network is an affordable way to get to smaller villages not served by trains.
Must-Try Food
Bouillabaisse: A traditional and complex fish stew from Marseille, often served with croutons and a garlic mayonnaise called rouille.
Tapenade: A savory paste made from olives, capers, and anchovies, served with bread as an appetizer.
Ratatouille: A classic Provençal dish of stewed vegetables, including eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
Salade Niçoise: A fresh salad from Nice with tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, anchovies, tuna, and black olives.
Pissaladière: A type of savory tart with caramelized onions, anchovies, and olives.
Soupe au Pistou: A summer vegetable soup with fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil, similar to a pesto.
Aioli: A creamy garlic mayonnaise, often served with steamed vegetables and cod.
Calissons d’Aix: A traditional candy from Aix-en-Provence with a paste of candied melon and almonds topped with a layer of royal icing.
Navette: A boat-shaped cookie from Marseille flavored with orange blossom water.
Gâteau de brousse: A light cheesecake made with a type of fresh goat cheese.
Must-Try Drinks
Provençal Rosé Wine: This region is world-renowned for its dry, crisp rosé wines, perfect for a hot summer day.
Pastis: A popular anise-flavored liqueur, traditionally served diluted with cold water.
Domaine Ott: A prestigious brand of Provençal rosé.
Côtes de Provence AOC Wines: A designation for the region’s best wines.
Vieux Marc de Provence: A strong, amber-colored brandy similar to grappa.
Thé à la menthe: A traditional mint tea, popular in the region’s North African-influenced communities.
Vin Cuit de Provence: A sweet, fortified wine made from grape must.