If you’re looking for an unforgettable vacation in France, Provence is the place to be! With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and delicious food, there’s no shortage of amazing places to visit in this region. Here are twelve of our favorites:
1. Arles
Provence is a region in the south of France that is renowned for its stunning scenery, Mediterranean climate, and rich cultural heritage. The city of Arles is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Provence and for good reason.
The city boasts Roman ruins, medieval churches, and fountains, making it a veritable open-air museum. Visitors can also enjoy the weekly open-air market, where they can sample regional specialties such as fresh seafood, cheeses, and fruits.
In addition, Arles has located just a short drive from the Camargue Regional Nature Park, where visitors can see pink flamingos and wild horses roaming in their natural habitat. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Arles is considered one of the best places to visit in Provence.
2. Aix-en-Provence
The city of Aix-en-Provence is often referred to as the “heart of Provence.” This charming city has a rich history dating back to the Roman Empire, and its streets are lined with cafes, shops, and art galleries.
Visitors can enjoy the Mediterranean sun in one of the many parks or take a stroll through the Old Town. Aix-en-Provence is also home to several universities, making it a lively and vibrant place to visit.
There are many things to see and do in this beautiful city, making it one of the best places to visit in Provence.
3. Avignon
Avignon is a charming city located in the Provence region of France. The city is best known for its medieval architecture and for being the former papal seat. Today, Avignon is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can explore its many historical attractions.
The most iconic landmark in Avignon is the Palais des Papes, a 14th-century palace that was once the home of the popes. Visitors can also explore the Franciscan monastery, the cathedral, and the Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct.
In addition to its historic sights, Avignon offers visitors a chance to experience traditional French culture. The city is home to many cafes, shops, and restaurants, and it hosts numerous festivals throughout the year. Whether you’re interested in history or culture, Avignon is an ideal destination for your next vacation.
4. Marseille
Situated on the Mediterranean coast, Marseille is the second largest city in France and the capital of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region. With a rich history dating back to the Greek colonization of the area in 600 BC, Marseille is a truly fascinating place to visit.
The city’s vibrant melting pot culture is reflective of its diverse population, and there are plenty of interesting things to see and do. From exploring the atmospheric Old Port to climbing up to the Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica for sweeping views of the city. Marseille is an exciting and captivating place that should definitely be on your travel list.
Read: The 12 Top Attractions and Activities in Marseille, France
5. Côte d’Azur
There are few places in the world as beautiful as the Côte d’Azur, and it’s no wonder that it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in France. Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Alps, the Côte d’Azur boasts stunning scenery, mild weather, and a host of activities to keep visitors entertained.
From exploring the picturesque villages of the Provence region to soaking up the sun on the beaches of Nice, there is something for everyone to enjoy on the Côte d’Azur. And with its convenient location, visitors can easily combine a trip to the Côte d’Azur with a visit to other popular attractions in France, such as Paris or Lyon.
So whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed city break, be sure to add the Côte d’Azur to your list of must-visit destinations.
6. Gorges du Verdon
The Gorges du Verdon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Provence, France. The gorge is located in the Verdon Regional Natural Park and extends for approximately 25 kilometers. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful gorges in Europe and is a popular spot for hiking, climbing, and canoeing.
The gorge is also home to several rare species of plants and animals. Visitors can take advantage of the numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping sites that are available in the park. For those looking for a more challenging experience, there are also several Via Ferrata routes that allow climbers to scale the sides of the gorge.
When visiting Gorges du Verdon follow these tips to make your trip enjoyable and fun.
7. Les Calanques
Les Calanques is a series of coves and small inlets that run along the Mediterranean coast between Marseille and Cassis in Provence, France. The area is well-known for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and sheltered beaches.
It is also a popular destination for hiking, climbing, and canoeing. Les Calanques was formed over millions of years as the coastline slowly eroded away. Today, it is a protected National Park and an important stopover for migrating birds.
Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the coast from the many walking trails that wind through the park. Whether you are looking for a place to relax or explore, Les Calanques is an unforgettable destination.
8. Mont Ventoux
Located in southeastern France, Mont Ventoux is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Provence. The mountain, which is part of the Alps, offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Visitors can also take advantage of the many hiking and cycling trails. In addition, there are several ski resorts in the area. Mont Ventoux is also home to a number of historical landmarks, including the Château de Montault and the Abbey de Sénanque.
With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Mont Ventoux is considered one of the best places to visit in Provence.
9. Luberon
Luberon is a mountain range located in the southeast of France, in the Provence region. It is known for its lavender fields, its Roman ruins, and its picturesque villages. Luberon is also home to the largest concentration of wineries in Provence.
The area’s Mediterranean climate provides ideal conditions for growing grapes. Luberon’s wines are some of the most popular in France, and visitors can tour the vineyards and taste the wines at many of the local wineries. Luberon is an ideal destination for those who want to experience the best of Provence.
Its lavender fields, Roman ruins, and picturesque villages offer a glimpse into the past, while its wineries provide a taste of the region’s signature wine. Whether you’re looking to learn about Provence’s history or sample its wines, Luberon is the perfect place to visit.
10. Camargue
Provence is a beautiful region in the south of France that is well-known for its stunning scenery, historic towns, and delicious food. One of the best places to visit in Provence is the Camargue.
The Camargue is a large marshy area that is home to a variety of wildlife, including flamingos, bulls, and wild horses. It is also a popular spot for birdwatching. Visitors can take boat trips through the marshes to get a closer look at the animals or go for a walk or cycle along the many trails that criss-cross the area.
For those who want to learn more about the local culture, there are several museums and galleries in the Camargue, as well as a number of traditional Provencal markets. With its fascinating history and diverse wildlife, the Camargue is definitely one of the best places to visit in Provence.
11. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a charming town located in the heart of Provence in southern France. The town is known for its beautiful setting, with rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards dotting the landscape.
Saint-Rémy is also home to many historical landmarks, including the ruins of a Roman temple and the site of a famous battle during the French Revolution. In addition, the town is home to numerous art galleries and shops selling locally made crafts.
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is an ideal place to visit for anyone interested in history, culture or simply enjoying the beauty of Provence.
12. Pont du Gard
Pont du Gard is an ancient Roman aqueduct that is located in the south of France in the Provence region. It was built in the 1st century AD and is one of the most well-preserved Roman engineering feats.
The aqueduct spans over 50 km and is made up of three tiers of arches. The Pont du Gard is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in France. Visitors can explore the site, which includes a museum, and take a boat ride on the Gardon River.
There are also several hiking and biking trails that wind through the surrounding countryside. Pont du Gard is a beautiful and fascinating place to visit and is sure to leave a lasting impression.
In conclusion
The 12 places listed above are some of the best tourist destinations in Provence, France. From the rolling hills and vineyards of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence to the ancient Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard, there is something for everyone in this picturesque region. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable vacation in France, be sure to add Provence to your list!
