There’s a corner of France where centuries-old villages cling to sun-baked hillsides, and each day invites an invitation to celebrate life. Welcome to…Provence!
A land that has captivated artisans, writers, and travelers for centuries with its breathtaking landscapes and slow pace of life.
A favorite for the warm Mediterranean sun and sweet smell of lavender fields, as soon as you arrive in the Provence region of France, you’ll find an immediate sense of calm.
Between visiting the charming towns, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, or a local boulangerie, you will find restoration and the joys of slowing down.
Whatever brings you to Provence, you will surely find the perfect experiences. Antiquing? Check! Exploring the stone houses of each quaint village? Check! An adventurous hike through the Verdon Gorge? Or glamorous nights in Saint-Tropez? It’s all here!
From charming towns to lively cities, consider the Boxwood en Provence France travel guide the ultimate resources full of the best places and top things to do.
Each corner of France has its own story, just waiting for you to be a part of it. Come with me as I show you around and introduce you to my favorite hidden treasures! Ready? On y va!
Table of contents
- Join Chloe in Europe
- What is Provence?
- Why Visit Provence?
- Getting to Provence
- By Air
- By Train
- Pro Tips
- The Best Accommodations in Provence
- Hotels
- Bed & Breakfasts
- Vacation Rentals & AirB&Bs
- The Best Towns to Visit in Provence
- Restaurants in Provence
- Market Days in Provence
- Seasonal Experiences in Provence
- Conclusion
- FAQs
- Group Trips to France
let’s rendezvous!
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What is Provence?
This region is renowned for its rich cultural heritage. Originally influenced by Greek and Roman civilizations, the history is evident in several archaeological sites and well-preserved ruins.
Provence’s unique character is shaped by its Mediterranean climate, distinctive cuisine, and of course, the famous Mistral wind.
It’s important to know that “Provence” is a region in France. It would be like saying “the South” in the states. There are many different areas of Provence, and in this guide, I will share some of the notable areas as well as hidden gems.
Key cities like Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, and Avignon serve as cultural hubs, while charming villages dot the countryside.
When visiting Provence, I recommend staying in a smaller village such as Lourmarin, Gordes, Bonnieux, Oppède le Vieux, or Saint Remy de Provence. Personally, I don’t care for the larger villages (Aix or Avignon), because I prefer a more quaint experience…but more on that later.
Agriculture plays a big part in the local identity and economy. Provence is known for its olive oil, fruit, vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Wine is also a staple, with red, rosé, and white varietals produced across the region.
Today, visitors indulge in the scenery, cuisine, and relaxed lifestyle that have drawn people for centuries.
Why Visit Provence?
Well, why wouldn’t you?
First and foremost…there’s the design! Architecture, antiques, and inspiration galore. Whether you’re an interior designer like me, or not, you will be inspired.
If you’re not familiar with my story, I will share a little bit about my love of France and how I’ve come to be an expert on all things France.
My grandfather was born in a small town called Megeve, which is located in the French alps. He immigrated to the USA where my father was born in Lake Tahoe. I guess you could say that I have equal parts love of the mountains, France, and the countryside.
My French heritage has provided me with an intrinsic joie de vivre that I fostered while living on a remote cattle ranch in northern California for a decade.
As I began to explore my roots, I found myself drawn back to Provence time and time again. I have a deep appreciation for artisans, slow living, and the simple luxuries that make for a fulfilling life.
In addition, I am an interior designer and absolutely love sourcing antiques for my clients across the world. Blend all of that up, and you get: Provence!
I was actually first drawn to the area for the antique shopping.You will find marchés, brocantes, and antiquities dealers throughout the region! You could spend a full day, heck, multiple days just antique shopping!
Next, there’s the landscape. Picture rolling hills covered in vineyards, fields of lavender stretching as far as the eye can see, and quaint villages perched on hilltops. It’s the place that inspired Vincent van Gogh and truly makes you want to pick up a paintbrush…even if you’ve never painted before.
Then there’s the food. Oh boy, the Provençal cuisine. The region is renowned for its fresh, flavorful produce, exquisite olive oils, and world-class wines. From savoring bouillabaisse in local restaurants to enjoying a crisp rosé in a countryside vineyard, your taste buds are in for a treat. Don’t miss the vibrant Provençal markets, where you can experience local culture and flavors.
Now, for the history buffs…you will have a field day here! Roman ruins, medieval castles, and ancient sites are scattered throughout the region. Explore the famous sites in larger cities like Aix-en-Provence or wander the main street of a charming medieval town.
For beach lovers, the Côte d’Azur has some of Europe’s most beautiful coastlines. But perhaps the best reason to visit Provence is to experience the art of living well. Here, life moves at a different pace. Long lunches are the norm, not the exception, and there’s always time to appreciate the small pleasures in life.
Getting to Provence
So, how can you get to this French paradise? Luckily, Provence isn’t a far-flung, hard-to-reach destination. It is well-connected to the rest of France and Europe. In fact, you’ve got quite a few options to choose from, and here are some of the best ways:
By Air
The first step to getting to Provence is by flight. Once you’ve arrived in France, you’ll then either drive or take a train to the Provence region.
Flying into Paris
Whenever I visit Provence, I almost always fly into Paris first. Partly because j’adore Paris, but it’s also a very easy flight for me. I find it to be cost effective and allows me a couple of days in the city before heading south to the French countryside.
Flying into Nice
Flying is often the quickest way to reach Provence, especially if you’re coming from outside France. For those heading to the eastern side and the French Riviera, flying into Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is your best bet.
As France’s third-busiest airport, it offers several international and domestic flights. Once you’ve landed, you can easily reach glamorous coastal towns like Cannes and Saint-Tropez and charming inland villages, often just a short ride away by taxi, rental car, or train.
Flying into Marseille
Marseille Provence Airport serves the western part of the region. It’s ideal to explore Aix-en-Provence, Arles, or the Camargue. The airport is well-connected to major European cities and has intercontinental flights.
By Train
Once you are in France, or if you’re already visiting another part of Europe, the train will place you directly in Aix or Avignon.
Honestly, there’s something romantic about watching the French countryside zip by as you head south.
Once you have arrived in Avignon or Aix, you’ll then rent a car or take a taxi to your final destination. I will share more details about getting around Provence down below.
Arriving in Avignon
Avignon’s TGV station is a major hub for fast TGV trains. You can reach Avignon from Paris in about 2 hours and 40 minutes. The station is a short shuttle ride from the city center, where you’ll find the famous Palais des Papes and Pont d’Avignon.
Arriving in Aix-en-Provence
The Aix-en-Provence TGV station is another convenient entry point. It’s about 3 hours from Paris.
While the station is outside the city, regular shuttle buses connect it to the center of Aix, known for its beautiful boulevards and connection to painter Paul Cézanne.
I actually prefer to arrive in Aix rather than Avignon because it is closer to the villages of Bonnieux and Lourmarin, which I prefer calling “home” during my visits to the region.
Pro Tips
As I mentioned, I generally fly directly to Paris and spend a few days exploring the capital.
Then, I take a high-speed train to Aix-en-Provence or Avignon, depending on where I’m headed in Provence. Once I have arrived, I reserve a rental car (be sure to do so ahead of time, and book an “automatic”!).
Also, double check that the rental car center will be open when you arrive. It’s always been a little bit of a headache picking up the rental car – I suggest checking in, making an account, and doing as much as you can prior to your arrival to expedite the process.
Or, you can simply hire a driver (we love working with Caroline: +33637523792 – use WhatsApp). It is quite nice to have a rental car though – think of it as if you were visiting the South in the US, and wanted to visit multiple areas, you’d want to have a rental car!
For the return, I either take the train back to Paris or extend my trip to the Côte d’Azur and fly out of Nice. This approach often provides me with better airline prices and saves me from dealing with layovers.
For the budget-conscious traveler, buses can be a good option for getting between towns. The regional bus network is quite extensive, though in my experience, it requires patience and planning.
Regarding trains, I always book in advance because they sell out rather quickly, especially on popular routes during peak season. I always splurge for the 1st class so that I have a place to store my luggage.
I recommend booking about a month in advance. Keep an eye on timing as train times change fairly often even after you’ve purchased your ticket (similar to flight time changes).
The Best Accommodations in Provence
Provence has various lodging options to suit every traveler’s preferences. From five star hotels to charming bed and breakfasts and home-like vacation rentals, there’s something for every taste and budget.
Hotels
Provence’s hotel scene is rich and varied. Larger cities like Aix-en-Provence feature familiar international chains alongside boutique hotels.
As an interior designer, I am quite opinionated on hotels – I always like a well designed hotel, it’s very important to me!
If you want luxury, Airelles La Bastide de Gordes, perched atop a cliff in one of France’s most beautiful villages, it’s a total splurge, but unreal and the service is unmatched. The views are simply breathtaking!
Hotel Crillon le Brave near Mont Ventoux is a favorite if you prefer a more intimate setting. This boutique hotel, comprised of restored stone houses, beautifully blends luxury with authenticity.
I also love the Beaumier hotels in Bonnieux and Lourmarin.
In Lourmarin you can choose to stay at the hotel in town called Le Moulin, which I really do love.The design is very organic modern mixed with French countryside.
They have a chateau across the street called Le Galinier which is actually where we host our group trips to France. This Chateau was featured by AD France and is beautifully done, this is best if you prefer a quieter setting, in a convenient area. I highly recommend staying in L’Intemporel suite, it’s really nicely done.
If you’re heading south to the coast, I love St. Tropez. Stay at Hotel La Ponche – hands down! I know it’s tempting to go to Nice or Antibes, but honestly, I think you’ll like St. Tropez better, it’s a bit more refined.
Budget-conscious travelers need not worry, there are plenty of vacation rentals and B&Bs!
Airelles Gordes | Hotel Crillon le Brave | Hotel la Ponche | Le Galinier Chateau
Bed & Breakfasts
You can’t go wrong with a bed and breakfast, or chambre d’hôte, as they say in France.
So many are run by lovely families living in beautifully renovated old farmhouses or townhouses.
One I loved was the Mas des Etoiles near Saint-Rémy. They served the most incredible breakfasts, and the rooms were spacious yet cozy. Plus, it’s a great base for exploring nearby ancient sites.
One of my other favorites is Le Saint Hubert, which has a fantastic restaurant!
Vacation Rentals & AirB&Bs
A vacation rental could be your best bet if you’re planning an extended stay or traveling with family or friends.
Airbnb and Vrbo have many great options – from cute apartments in historic villages to sprawling houses with private pools.
Renting a traditional “mas” farmhouse is also a treat. Imagine sipping your morning coffee surrounded by olive trees or lavender fields. However, rural properties often require a car to get around.
The Best Towns to Visit in Provence
For the Wine Lover
Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a must-visit. This small village is surrounded by vineyards that produce some of the most renowned wines in France. Many wineries offer tours and tastings, and the village itself is charming.
If you prefer rosé, head to Bandol on the coast. The area is famous for rosé wines, and you can spend a lovely day hopping between tasting rooms and seaside cafes.
For the Antiques Enthusiast
As an interior designer, I come to France for the antiques and the design. I love shopping for decor and fabrics and of course, vintage pieces for our design clients. If you’re anything like me, you’ll love L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. This picturesque town, crisscrossed by canals, is known as the antique capital of Provence or the Venice of Provence. On weekends, the town comes alive with markets where you can hunt for everything from vintage linens to antique furniture. Even if you’re not buying, browsing the shops and stalls is a treat.
You’ll want to go on a Sunday morning for the best shopping, then grab lunch at one of the cafes on the canals or, my favorite, the garden restaurant by the train station! That’s where my favorite antiques shop is as well. Bon shopping!
For the Foodie
Any foodie knows, the food of Provence is nuanced and unique. There are many restaurants throughout the region that you must visit! One of my favorites is Le Saint Hubert in Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt. You will also find fantastic restaurants in Gordes, Aix, and St. Remy!
For a more rustic food experience, visit Nyons. This town is all about olives and is one of the perfect places to experience local cuisine. I highly recommend Lourmarin for an evening out, especially in the warmer months. The cobblestone streets are perfect for people watching late into the evening.
Pro Tip: Most restaurants do not open until 7:30 pm, which is considered quite early. Plan to reserve a table around 8:30 for the best experience!
For the Nature Lover
Nature and art lovers will find the perfect muse wandering around Luberon.
Roussillon is stunning, with its ochre cliff-sides and buildings that look plucked from a Cézanne painting.
Nearby, hike the “Colorado Provençal” – ochre quarries and rock formations unlike anything else. The best time to visit is during the lavender season when you can see the famous lavender fields in bloom.
Want something a little more coastal? Massif des Calanques are picturesque. This coastal cliffs overlook the Mediterranean Sea. You can reserve a skipper manned boat for an unforgettable day on the water!
These are just a few highlights of what Provence has to offer. Each of the different towns and hilltop villages has its charm. So don’t be afraid to explore and discover your favorite spots – there’s always something new and beautiful around the next corner.
Restaurants in Provence
Provence has culinary scenes that range from rustic farmhouse kitchens to Michelin-starred establishments.
Traditional provençal cuisine
If you’re after traditional cuisine, head to La Petite Maison in Cucuron. This charming restaurant serves home-style dishes that’ll make you feel like you’re dining at your grandmother’s house. Their ratatouille is amazing, and don’t even get me started on their bouillabaisse!
If you find yourself in Avignon, check out La Fourchette. This cozy spot has been dishing out local cuisine for decades. Their grand aioli garni (a spread of cod, vegetables, boiled eggs, escargots, and olive oil) is a must-try.
Fine dining experiences
For those special occasions when you want to pull out all the stops, Provence doesn’t disappoint.
Over in Gordes, La Bastide de Gordes houses the elegant Pèir | Pierre Gagnaire TT restaurant. With its breathtaking views of the Luberon and innovative cuisine, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner. I also highly recommend their Sunday brunch which is quite the spectacle! It’s one of the most memorable experiences I have from Provence!
Casual restaurants and cafes
Sometimes, you just want a laid-back meal. In Lourmarin, La Louche à Beurre is my very favorite! Known for its table side steaks and crispy frites, you go as much for the ambiance as the food. It’s rustic and real, and we adore Remi the spunky waiter. You can always count on rich, flavorful dishes and a great wine list.
For a quick bite in Arles, swing by Café de la Place. It’s nothing fancy, but their pan bagnat (a sort of Niçoise salad in sandwich form) is the perfect fuel for a day of sightseeing.
Market Days in Provence
Each week, sleepy small villages transform into bustling hubs full of activity. However, make sure you arrive around 11 a.m. to enjoy the lively atmosphere and shop before things wind down in the early afternoon, usually by 1 or 2 p.m. To better understand the system, in a simply put way, each village has a “day of the week” for their market,
Best Markets to Visit
Each town in Provence has its market day. A few of the top local markets:
- Lourmarin: Lourmarin has an evening market on Tuesdays and a morning market on Fridays. It’s perfect for those who love a lively atmosphere with plenty of vendors.
- Bonnieux: Perched above rolling olive groves, this small town’s cobblestone streets come alive each Friday morning. It’s ideal if you prefer a quieter, more authentic feel.
- Gordes: Gordes, set against stunning Luberon views, hosts a market every Tuesday morning that’s as impressive as the stunning village. The town is a sight to behold, making the journey worthwhile even before reaching market stalls.
- Isle-sur-la-Sorgue: Known for its antique shops and flea market, this town is a great stop for treasure hunters. Plus, it’s just a short drive from many other Provençal destinations.
Feel free to choose one that suits your schedule. Also, parking can be tricky, especially in hill towns like Gordes. Get there early, or be prepared for a short walk.
What to expect and buy
You’ll be overwhelmed by the sights and smells. Expect to find:
- Fresh, locally grown produce
- Aromatic herbs and spices
- Regional specialties like olive oil, honey, and lavender products
- Handcrafted goods, from pottery to textiles
- Local cheeses and charcuterie
- Seasonal flowers
- Live music – yes, live music! This adds to the festive atmosphere. Take time to soak it all in – perhaps over a glass of local wine at a nearby café.
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Seasonal Experiences in Provence
Provence is a region that shines year-round, but each season brings its own unique charm. This Province travel guide will help you navigate the best experiences throughout the year.
Summer in Provence
This is when the region bursts into life, with long, sunny days perfect for exploring. The weather during the summer months is hot and dry, ideal for sipping rosé on a terrace or taking a dip in the Mediterranean.
The star attraction? Lavender fields in full bloom. For the best views, visit the Valensole Plateau between mid-June and mid-July. The purple landscape is spectacular.
Summer in Provence is also festival season. The Avignon Festival in July is a must for theater lovers, while music fans shouldn’t miss Jazz à Juan in Antibes.
Word to the wise: Summer is peak tourist season, so book accommodations in advance and be prepared for crowds at popular spots.
Winter in Provence
Now, you might not immediately think of Provence as a winter destination, but hear me out. While it does get chilly (and can even snow in higher elevations), winter days in Provence are perfect for exploring villages without summer crowds.
Winter is also when you’ll get to experience Provence like a local. This is one of the truffle seasons, and if you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat. Join a truffle hunt, or simply indulge in truffle-infused dishes at local restaurants. The earthy aroma and rich flavor are unforgettable.
Also, Provençal Christmas markets are less touristy than their northern counterparts but just as festive. Don’t miss the tradition of the 13 desserts of Christmas—a spread of sweets that’s as delicious as it is symbolic, with roots tracing back to the Middle Ages.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it – an exhaustive Provence travel guide that hopefully has you itching to pack your bags and hop on the next flight to the South of France.
Whether you’re a history buff exploring Roman ruins, a foodie sampling your way through bustling markets, or an art lover following in the footsteps of Van Gogh, Provence offers a little slice of heaven for everyone. The beauty of this region lies not just in its postcard-perfect landscapes but also in the way life is lived here—slowly, deliberately, and with a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.
To experience Provence, embrace its laid-back rhythm. Don’t try to cram too much into your itinerary. Leave time for long lunches, impromptu wine tastings, and strolls through charming villages. Chat with locals, practice your French (no matter how rusty), and be open to unexpected adventures.
Provence is waiting to welcome you with open arms and a chilled glass of pastis. À votre santé!
FAQs
What are the top tourist attractions in Provence?
Some of the top tourist attractions in Provence include the Lavender fields, Pont du Gard, Palais des Papes, Calanques, Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Marseille.
What is the best time of year to visit Provence?
The best time to visit Provence is usually from late spring to early fall (May/September).
How can I travel around Provence?
You can travel around Provence by car, train, or bus. Alternatively, you can also book day tours.
What are some traditional dishes to try in Provence?
Some of the traditional dishes to try in Provence include ratatouille, bouillabaisse, tapenade, pissaladière, and socca.
Are there any famous festivals in Provence?
Yes, Provence is known for its vibrant festivals. Some popular festivals include the Lavender Festival in Sault, the Avignon Theatre Festival, the Aix-en-Provence Music Festival, and the Nice Carnival.
Group Trips to France
If you don’t want to plan a trip on your own, we offer group trips to France!
Travel through the French countryside with Chloe as your personal France tour guide. Owner and principal designer of Boxwood Avenue, Chloe will guide you through the most beautiful and historic parts of southern France!
A Boxwood Avenue group trip to France will allow you to experience the magic of France in an unforgettable way. Not only will you have an expertly curated trip highlighting the most wonderful sites of the area, but you’ll enjoy the company of like-minded people and leave with memories and life-long friends.
Check our travel website for current ticket availability! Au revoir!
