Provence, a picturesque region in southeastern France, is a destination that captures the hearts of travelers with its stunning landscapes, historic towns, and vibrant culture.

Deciding how many days to spend in Provence can be a challenge, as there is so much to see and do.

Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan your perfect Provence itinerary, brought to you by Best Trip Gallery.

Day 1-2: Aix-en-Provence

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Aix-en-Provence Start your journey in Aix-en-Provence, a charming town known for its elegant architecture, bustling markets, and artistic heritage. Begin with a leisurely stroll along Cours Mirabeau, a tree-lined boulevard with beautiful fountains and cafes. Visit the Saint-Sauveur Cathedral and explore the Old Town’s narrow streets, filled with boutiques and art galleries.

In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Atelier Cézanne, the studio where the famous painter Paul Cézanne created many of his masterpieces. End your day with a delicious dinner at one of the town’s many restaurants, enjoying Provençal cuisine and local wines.

Day 2: Market Day and Surrounding Countryside Spend your second day exploring the vibrant markets of Aix-en-Provence. The morning markets offer a feast for the senses with fresh produce, flowers, and local specialties. Afterward, venture into the countryside to visit the nearby Château La Coste, a winery and art center where you can enjoy wine tastings and contemporary art installations.

Day 3-4: Avignon and the Luberon

Day 3: Historic Avignon Travel to Avignon, a city steeped in history and known for its impressive medieval architecture. Start with a visit to the Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in Europe. Stroll across the famous Pont d’Avignon and explore the charming streets of the city center. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Avignon Cathedral and the Rocher des Doms for panoramic views of the Rhône River.

Day 4: The Luberon Villages Dedicate your fourth day to exploring the picturesque villages of the Luberon. Begin with Gordes, a hilltop village with stunning views and narrow cobbled streets. Continue to Roussillon, known for its ochre cliffs and colorful buildings. Visit the Lavender Museum in Coustellet to learn about the region’s lavender production, and if you’re visiting in summer, enjoy the blooming lavender fields.

Day 5-6: Arles and the Camargue

Day 5: Roman Heritage in Arles Head to Arles, a town famous for its Roman heritage and connection to Vincent van Gogh. Start your day with a visit to the Arles Amphitheatre and the Roman Theatre. Explore the Alyscamps, an ancient Roman necropolis, and the beautiful Church of St. Trophime. In the afternoon, visit the Van Gogh Foundation to see the artist’s works and learn about his time in Arles.

Day 6: Wildlife and Nature in the Camargue Spend your sixth day in the Camargue, a unique natural region known for its wild horses, flamingos, and salt flats. Take a guided tour or rent a bike to explore the area. Visit the Ornithological Park of Pont de Gau to see a variety of bird species up close. End your day with a relaxing visit to the seaside town of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.

Day 7: Les Baux-de-Provence and Departure

Day 7: Les Baux-de-Provence On your final day, visit Les Baux-de-Provence, a stunning hilltop village with a rich history. Explore the Château des Baux, a ruined castle with breathtaking views of the Alpilles mountains. Wander through the narrow streets and enjoy the local shops and cafes. If time permits, visit the Carrieres de Lumieres, an immersive art experience set in a former quarry.

Departure After a week of exploring Provence, it’s time to bid farewell to this enchanting region. Depending on your travel plans, you can depart from Marseille or Nice, both of which offer convenient transport options.

A week in Provence offers a perfect balance of cultural experiences, historic sites, and natural beauty. However, if you have more time, consider extending your stay to fully immerse yourself in the region’s charms. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling markets, serene landscapes, or historic landmarks, Provence promises an unforgettable travel experience.

Can you do a day trip to Provence from Nice?

Yes, you can do a day trip to Provence from Nice, although it will be a long and busy day.

Day Trip Itinerary: Provence from Nice

Early Morning: Departure from Nice

7:00 AM: Departure Start your day early to maximize your time in Provence. The drive from Nice to Aix-en-Provence takes about two hours. If you prefer not to drive, you can also take a train, which takes around 2.5 hours.

Mid-Morning: Aix-en-Provence

9:00 AM: Arrival in Aix-en-Provence Begin your day in the charming town of Aix-en-Provence. Stroll along Cours Mirabeau, a tree-lined boulevard with beautiful fountains and cafes. Visit the Saint-Sauveur Cathedral and explore the Old Town’s narrow streets filled with boutiques and art galleries.

10:30 AM: Market Visit If your trip coincides with market day, visit the local markets to experience the vibrant atmosphere and browse fresh produce, flowers, and local specialties.

Late Morning: Luberon Villages

11:30 AM: Depart for Luberon Drive from Aix-en-Provence to the Luberon region, which takes about an hour. Aim to visit one or two of the picturesque villages that the region is famous for.

12:30 PM: Gordes Visit Gordes, a stunning hilltop village known for its breathtaking views and narrow cobblestone streets. Wander through the village, visit local shops, and take in the scenic vistas.

Early Afternoon: Roussillon

1:30 PM: Roussillon Continue your journey to Roussillon, which is about a 30-minute drive from Gordes. Roussillon is famous for its ochre cliffs and vibrant buildings. Stroll through the village and enjoy the unique colors of the buildings and landscapes.

2:30 PM: Lunch in Roussillon Have lunch at one of the local restaurants in Roussillon, where you can savor Provençal cuisine.

Mid-Afternoon: Lavender Museum or Lavender Fields

3:30 PM: Lavender Museum After lunch, head to the Lavender Museum in Coustellet, which is about a 15-minute drive from Roussillon. Learn about the history and production of lavender in Provence. If you’re visiting during the summer months (June to August), you can also visit the nearby lavender fields for a picturesque experience.

Late Afternoon: Return to Nice

4:30 PM: Depart for Nice Begin your journey back to Nice. The drive from the Luberon region to Nice takes approximately 2.5 hours, so plan to leave early enough to return by evening.

Evening: Arrival in Nice

7:00 PM: Arrival in Nice Arrive back in Nice in the early evening. If you’re not too tired, you can enjoy a relaxing dinner at one of Nice’s many restaurants, reflecting on the day’s adventures.

Tips for a Successful Day Trip

1. Plan Ahead: Since this is a long day trip, planning ahead is crucial. Make sure to check the opening hours of the places you want to visit and consider booking any necessary tickets in advance.
2. Rent a Car: Renting a car gives you the most flexibility to explore Provence at your own pace. Alternatively, you can join a guided tour that includes transportation.
3. Pack Snacks and Water: To save time and stay energized throughout the day, pack some snacks and water.
4. Comfortable Clothing and Shoes: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you’ll be doing a fair amount of walking.

While a day trip from Nice to Provence is ambitious, it is certainly doable and offers a taste of the region’s charm and beauty.

By starting early and planning your itinerary carefully, you can enjoy a fulfilling and memorable day exploring some of Provence’s highlights.

Where to stop in Provence?

Provence is a region filled with charming towns, historic sites, and stunning landscapes. Here are some must-visit stops in Provence, perfect for both day trips and longer stays. These stops will help you capture the essence of this beautiful region.

1. Aix-en-Provence

Why Visit: Known for its elegant architecture, vibrant markets, and artistic heritage, Aix-en-Provence is a quintessential Provençal town.

Highlights:

• Cours Mirabeau: A picturesque boulevard lined with trees and cafes.
• Saint-Sauveur Cathedral: A beautiful blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
• Atelier Cézanne: The studio of the famous painter Paul Cézanne.

2. Avignon

Why Visit: Avignon is rich in history and home to impressive medieval architecture. Highlights:

• Palais des Papes: The largest Gothic palace in Europe.
• Pont d’Avignon: The famous medieval bridge.
• Avignon Cathedral and Rocher des Doms: For panoramic views of the Rhône River.

3. Luberon Villages

Why Visit: The Luberon region is known for its picturesque hilltop villages, each with its own unique charm.

Highlights:

• Gordes: Stunning views and narrow cobblestone streets.
• Roussillon: Known for its ochre cliffs and colorful buildings.
• Bonnieux and Ménerbes: Other charming villages worth exploring.

4. Arles

Why Visit: Arles boasts a rich Roman heritage and a connection to Vincent van Gogh.

Highlights:

• Arles Amphitheatre and Roman Theatre: Well-preserved Roman structures.
• Alyscamps: An ancient Roman necropolis.
• Van Gogh Foundation: Showcasing the artist’s works and history.

5. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Why Visit: A picturesque town that inspired many of Van Gogh’s works.

Highlights:

• Saint-Paul-de-Mausole: The asylum where Van Gogh stayed.
• Roman ruins of Glanum: An archaeological site with impressive remains.
• Charming old town: Filled with boutiques, cafes, and galleries.

6. Les Baux-de-Provence

Why Visit: A stunning hilltop village with a rich history.

Highlights:

• Château des Baux: A ruined castle with breathtaking views.
• Carrieres de Lumieres: An immersive art experience in a former quarry.
• Medieval streets: Perfect for wandering and exploring local shops.

7. Gordes

Why Visit: One of the most beautiful villages in France, offering stunning views and historic charm. Highlights:

• The village itself: With its stone houses and narrow streets.
• Sénanque Abbey: A Cistercian abbey surrounded by lavender fields.
• Village des Bories: A collection of ancient stone huts.

8. Roussillon

Why Visit: Known for its ochre cliffs and colorful buildings.

Highlights:

• Ochre Trail: A walking path through the vibrant ochre landscape.
• Village streets: Filled with art galleries, cafes, and beautiful views.
• Local markets: Offering fresh produce and artisanal goods.

9. L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

Why Visit: A charming town known for its antique markets and picturesque canals.

Highlights:

• Sunday market: One of the largest and most famous in Provence.
• Antique shops: Scattered throughout the town.
• Waterwheels: Along the Sorgue River, adding to the town’s charm.

10. Cassis and the Calanques

Why Visit: A beautiful seaside town and stunning natural area.

Highlights:

• Port of Cassis: A picturesque harbor with colorful boats.
• Calanques: Dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, perfect for hiking or boat tours.
• Local beaches: Ideal for relaxation and enjoying the Mediterranean Sea.

Provence is a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Each town and village offers something unique, from the bustling markets of Aix-en-Provence to the serene lavender fields surrounding Gordes. Whether you’re planning a day trip from Nice or a longer stay, these stops will help you experience the best of Provence.

What is the best way to travel in Provence?

Traveling through Provence offers a variety of transportation options, each with its own advantages.

1. Renting a Car

Why It’s the Best Option:

• Flexibility: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, visit off-the-beaten-path villages, and change your itinerary as you please.
• Accessibility: Some of the most charming spots in Provence are best reached by car, including remote vineyards and secluded hilltop villages.

Tips:

• Navigation: Use GPS or a reliable map. Some rural areas may have limited signage.
• Parking: Be prepared for narrow streets in historic towns. Look for designated parking areas to avoid fines.
• Rental: Book in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Consider renting a smaller car for easier navigation in tight spots.

2. Trains

Why It’s a Good Option:

• Convenience: Trains connect major cities and towns like Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Arles.
• Comfort: Trains offer a comfortable and scenic way to travel, especially for longer distances.

Tips:

• Schedules: Check the train schedules in advance, as some rural stations may have limited service.
• Tickets: Purchase tickets in advance to save money and secure a seat, especially on popular routes.

3. Buses

Why It’s a Good Option:

• Coverage: Buses can reach places that trains do not, including smaller towns and rural areas.
• Affordability: Bus travel is often cheaper than renting a car or taking the train.

Tips:

• Planning: Check bus routes and schedules ahead of time. Services may be less frequent on weekends and holidays.
• Local Knowledge: Ask locals or the tourist office for advice on the best routes and connections.

4. Cycling

Why It’s a Good Option:

• Scenic Routes: Provence is known for its beautiful landscapes, and cycling allows you to immerse yourself in the scenery.
• Eco-Friendly: Cycling is an environmentally friendly way to travel.

Tips:

• Routes: Plan your routes in advance. Provence has many well-marked cycling paths, including those through vineyards and along the coast.
• Equipment: Ensure your bike is in good condition and carry necessary repair tools. Consider renting an e-bike for assistance with hills.

5. Guided Tours

Why It’s a Good Option:

• Expertise: Guided tours offer expert knowledge and can provide deep insights into the history, culture, and cuisine of Provence.
• Convenience: Tours often handle all logistics, including transportation, entry fees, and sometimes meals.

Tips:

• Selection: Choose reputable tour operators with good reviews. Look for tours that match your interests, whether it’s wine tasting, history, or nature.
• Group Size: Smaller groups often provide a more personalized experience.

6. Walking

Why It’s a Good Option:

• Immersion: Walking allows you to fully experience the charm and detail of Provençal villages.
• Exercise: It’s a great way to stay active while on vacation.

Tips:

• Footwear: Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, especially if you plan to walk on cobblestone streets or hiking trails.
• Routes: Use local maps or guidebooks to find the best walking routes. Some areas, like the Luberon, have well-marked hiking trails.

Combining Methods

For the best experience, consider combining different methods of transportation. For instance:

• Train and Car: Use the train to travel between major cities and rent a car for exploring the countryside.
• Bus and Bike: Take a bus to a starting point and then cycle through scenic areas.
• Guided Tours and Independent Travel: Join a guided tour for specific interests or regions and travel independently for the rest of your trip.

The best way to travel in Provence depends on your personal preferences, itinerary, and the experiences you seek.

Whether you choose the flexibility of a rental car, the convenience of trains and buses, the adventure of cycling, the insight of guided tours, or the immersive experience of walking, Provence offers a wealth of options to suit every traveler.