What to do in Provence? The region of France known for its ancient villages, lavender fields, olive oil and joie de vivre. In this article we share our tips for things to do and see in Provence.
Index
Where is Provence on the map?
Provence is located in the southeast of France, bordering Italy, Monaco and the Mediterranean Sea. From Utrecht it is about 1000-1200 kilometers drive, depending on your exact destination in Provence.
The Provence region consists of the departments:
- Alpes-de-Haute-Provence;
- Bouches-du-Rhône;
- Var;
- Vaucluse (only the Avignon region);
- Part of Alpes-Maritimes (up to Nice);
- A small part of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
Provence is a vast area with many nature reserves, villages and towns.
What to do in the Provence?
- Visit Valensole and the surrounding lavender fields;
- Discover the photogenic town Gordes, where the film A Good Year was (partly) filmed;
- Admire the Gorges du Verdon, the “Grand Canyon” of France. A beautiful region for hiking, climbing, water sports and car racing enthusiasts;
- Take a refreshing dip in the Lac de Sainte Croix, or rent a canoe and paddle the Gorges du Verdon;
- Experience the Provencal atmosphere during the warm summer evenings on the terrace of Tourtour (with live music!);
- Visit the Provençal farmers' markets in the authentical villages;
- Taste the best rosé at one of the wine domains in the Provence
- Book a unique lavender tour, perfume workshop or other typical Provençal activity;
- Visit the city Avignon and discover the ancient history;
- Imagine yourself in a movie in the Abbey of Le Thoronet;
- Wander among the 250 (!) antique shops in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue;
- Try your luck at a game petanque on one of the many public areas in the villages
What are the most beautiful villages in the Provence?
In France, several villages are considered “the most beautiful villages in France” labeled. The organization has also designated several villages in Provence as “the most beautiful villages“. Below you will find the most beautiful villages in Provence.
- Moustiers-Sainte-Marie;
- Tourtour
- Ansouis;
- Cotignac;
- Bargème;
- Lourmarin;
- Roussillon;
- Gordes;
- Les Baux de Provence;
- Saint-Véran;
- Coaraze;
- Entrevaux;
- Seillans;
- Ménerbes;
- Venasque;
- Séguret;
- Gourdon;
- Le Castellet;
- Gassin;
- Bormes-les-Mimosas;
- Sainte-Agnès;
- Saorge.
There is an incredible amount to do, see and experience in Provence. Here you can read more about activities and villages in Provence.
What shouldn't you miss in Provence?
- The lavenderfields;
- Refreshing dip in one of the lakes, for example Lac de St. Croix;
- A unique stay in a Lovenest;
- Canoe trip in the Gorges du Verdon;
- The farmers markets are full of delicious fresh & local produce;
- Beautiful villages with a rich history;
- A fresh croissant for breakfast.
Things to bring
- Your passport;
- Good shoes;
- Empty space in your suitcase for your souvenirs
- Travel tablets (if you suffer from motion sickness)
- Phone & charger
- Your good mood
What is typical about Provence?
- A (fanatical) game of petanque (jeu de boule);
- Medieval architecture;
- Pure olive oil;
- Handmade pottery;
- Brocante & vintage markets;
- Delicious rosé;
- The Aups truffle market;
- Beautiful winding roads with views;
- Sunny days;
- Long walks through overwhelming nature;
- Canoe trips on rivers;
- Ancient churches, abbeys, monasteries and other religious buildings;
- Lovely long days in the sun;
- Enjoy Pastis or any other refreshing drink on the terrace;
- Sunbathing by the water;
- Delicious food with local ingredients;
- Endless lavender fields;
- Cooling boat trips on the sea or lake.
Where are the most beautiful lavender fields?
Provence is known for its beautiful lavender fields. The mostbeautiful lavendel fields are in the following regions:
- Valensole and surroundings (Valensole plateau);
- L’Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque (an absolutely photo-worthy location);
- In the Lubéron;
- Tussen Puimoisson en Moustiers-Sainte-Marie;
- Digne (there is even a lavender parade in August).
Lavender blooms in the period from mid-June to the end of July/mid-August. Do you want to be sure of beautiful lavender fields? Then it is best to plan your visit in mid-July. However, this period is also known to be the busiest period. Do you want to avoid that? Then plan your visit a little earlier.
Is it worth going to Provence?
In my opinion; yes, definitely!
Provence has something for everyone. You can have an active holiday, make beautiful road trips, enjoy the children or have a drink on a terrace. Has this article not convinced you yet? Discover HERE more about the Provence.
In Provence you will find many hotels, campsites, villas and cottages to rent. For example, you can book a stay in a medieval village house at Liefdesnestjes.
Discover more about the Provence
Save this post on Pinterest
EN 
NL