Provence, France Travel Guide

Discover the enchanting allure of Provence, France, where rolling lavender fields, historic towns, and Mediterranean coastline offer a perfect escape.

Provence, a region in southeastern France, is a land of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the rolling lavender fields to the picturesque villages, every corner of Provence exudes charm and beauty. The region is also known for its olive groves, vineyards, and the mesmerizing Mediterranean coastline. Wander through the quaint streets of towns like Aix-en-Provence and Avignon, where you can explore historical sites such as the Palais des Papes and Roman amphitheaters. Provence is also a culinary haven, offering a delectable array of local dishes and wines. The weekly markets are a treat for the senses, filled with fresh produce, cheeses, and artisanal goods. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do, from hiking in the Luberon hills to kayaking in the Gorges du Verdon. Provence is a place where time seems to stand still, allowing you to soak in the beauty and tranquility of this magical region.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Provence.

Visit in late June to early July to see the lavender fields in full bloom.
Renting a car is recommended to explore the region at your own pace.
Try the local wines and olive oils, which are some of the best in the world.
Don't miss the weekly markets for fresh produce and unique souvenirs.
Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the cobblestone streets and hiking trails.

Top City Travel Guides in Provence

The cities of Provence, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Nice

Marseille

Cannes

Avignon

Saint-Tropez

Destinations in Provence

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Les Calanques National Park

Ecrins National Park

Vercors Regional Natural Park

Verdon Gorge

Gorges du Verdon

Explore Provence: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Provence

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Casino de Monte-Carlo

Experience the glamour and excitement of Casino de Monte-Carlo, a timeless jewel in the heart of Monaco's luxurious landscape.

4.6

Palace of Festivals and Congresses of Cannes

Explore the stunning Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, the heart of Cannes' cultural scene and home to the iconic film festival.

4.3

Le Sentier des Ocres

Experience the stunning ochre cliffs and vibrant landscapes of Le Sentier des Ocres, a must-visit hiking trail in Roussillon, Provence.

4.6

IGY Vieux-Port de Cannes

Experience the glamour and charm of IGY Vieux-Port de Cannes, a vibrant marina at the heart of the French Riviera, perfect for dining, relaxation, and stunning views.

4.5

Best landmarks in Provence

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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Palais des Papes

Explore the grandeur of Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and immerse yourself in the history of medieval Avignon.

4.5

Parc national des Calanques

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Parc National des Calanques, where azure waters meet dramatic cliffs in a stunning natural paradise.

4.7

Le Sentier des Ocres

Discover the stunning ochre landscapes of Le Sentier des Ocres, a vibrant hiking area in Roussillon, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

4.6

Château des Baux-de-Provence

Explore the enchanting Château des Baux-de-Provence, a historical castle offering stunning views and captivating cultural experiences in the heart of Provence.

4.5

Best restaurants in Provence

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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Les Fils à Maman Aix en Provence

Experience authentic French cuisine with a modern twist at Les Fils à Maman in Aix-en-Provence—where every meal tells a story.

4.5

Pizzéria La Pinède

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Pizzéria La Pinède in Les Arcs – where delicious pizzas meet local brewing excellence.

4.4

Le Vintage

Experience the finest French cuisine at Le Vintage in Avignon – where tradition meets modernity in every delicious bite.

4.4

Restaurant La Grotte

Experience exquisite French cuisine at Restaurant La Grotte in Trans-en-Provence – a culinary gem steeped in tradition and flavor.

4.5

Best bars in Provence

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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La Caravelle

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite flavors of Marseille at La Caravelle, a waterfront bar and restaurant perfect for any occasion.

4.3

Carry Nation

Experience the art of mixology at Carry Nation, a secret cocktail bar in Marseille where creativity meets taste in a unique atmosphere.

4.7

Bar des 13 Coins

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bar des 13 Coins in Marseille, where delicious food and refreshing cocktails await in a lively setting.

3.8

Barracuda

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aix-en-Provence at Barracuda, where unique cocktails and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Provence

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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La Taverne du Lac

Experience the charm of La Taverne du Lac, a cozy bar in Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon offering stunning lake views and delightful local beverages.

4.2

Bar l'Etape

Discover the inviting ambiance of Bar l'Etape, a cozy lounge and pub in Castellane, perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure.

4.5

Mistral Club

Discover the upscale nightlife of Aix-en-Provence at Mistral Club, where vibrant music and stylish ambiance create unforgettable experiences.

2.3

Bisous Bisous Club

Discover the energetic nightlife of Cannes at Bisous Bisous Club, where music, cocktails, and vibrant atmosphere await.

2.1

Best shops in Provence

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Best Shops

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Les Terrasses du Port

Experience the best of shopping, dining, and stunning Mediterranean views at Les Terrasses du Port in Marseille.

4.3

CAP3000 - Shopping Mall

Discover CAP3000, a vibrant shopping mall in Saint-Laurent-du-Var, offering a diverse range of shops, dining, and entertainment for an unforgettable experience.

4.3

Polygone Riviera

Experience the ultimate shopping and dining oasis at Polygone Riviera in Cagnes-sur-Mer – where luxury meets leisure.

4.3

Centre Commercial Centre Bourse

Discover the vibrant Centre Commercial Centre Bourse in Marseille, where shopping meets culture in a bustling, lively atmosphere.

3.9

Explore Provence on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Provence, mapped for you.

Provence Essentials

Provence is accessible by various means of transportation. The nearest international airports are Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) and Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE). From Paris, you can take a high-speed TGV train to major cities in Provence such as Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Marseille. The journey from Paris to Avignon takes approximately 3 hours.
Provence has a well-developed public transportation system. Trains and buses connect major cities and towns. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the countryside and smaller villages at your own pace. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in urban areas. Biking is also a popular option, especially in the scenic Luberon and Alpilles regions.
The official currency in France is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in rural areas and local markets. ATMs are available throughout Provence, but it is wise to have some cash on hand before traveling to remote locations.
Provence is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Be vigilant in crowded areas such as markets and tourist attractions to avoid pickpocketing. Areas like Marseille's northern districts have higher crime rates and should be avoided, especially after dark. Always stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the European emergency number. Provence has well-equipped hospitals and medical facilities. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available and can provide over-the-counter medications for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress smart-casual, especially when dining out. Avoid overly casual attire like flip-flops and beachwear away from the coast. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting churches and religious sites. Cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trains and buses. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Bonjour' (Good day) or 'Bonsoir' (Good evening) and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties such as bouillabaisse and ratatouille. Don't rush through meals; dining is a leisurely experience in Provence.
To experience Provence like a local, visit the weekly markets in towns such as Apt and L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue for fresh produce and artisanal goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share tips about the region. Don’t miss the lavender fields in bloom from June to August. For a unique experience, attend a local festival or wine tasting event in one of the many vineyards.

When is the best time to visit Provence?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Provence

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Provence. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloSalut
  [sah-loo]
- GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh ruh-vwahr]
- YesOui
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît
  [seel voo pleh]
- Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi
  [ehk-skew-zay mwah]
- How are you?Comment ça va?
  [koh-mahn sah vah]
- Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [byehn. eh voo]
- Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
- I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahn pah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwah leuh meh-nu, seel voo pleh]
- I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnj pah deh vyahnd]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-teh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray peh-yay, seel voo pleh]
- Help!Au secours!
  [oh se-kur]
- Go away!Allez-vous-en!
  [ah-lay voo-zahn]
- Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-peh-lay lah poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-peh-lay uhn meh-deh-sahn]
- I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pehr-dyoo]
- I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray ah-sheh-tay]
- I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gard zhoost]
- How much is it?C'est combien?
  [seh kohm-byen]
- That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [seh troh shair]
- Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-vay voo beh-say leuh pree]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kel uhr eh-teel]
- It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel eh ewn uhr]
- Half past (10)Dix heures et demie
  [deez uhr eh duh-mee]
- MorningMatin
  [mah-tan]
- AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-preh-mee-dee]
- EveningSoir
  [swahr]
- YesterdayHier
  [ee-air]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor-dwee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [duh-mahn]
- 1Un
  [uhn]
- 2Deux
  [duh]
- 3Trois
  [trwah]
- 4Quatre
  [katr]
- 5Cinq
  [sank]
- 6Six
  [sees]
- 7Sept
  [seht]
- 8Huit
  [weet]
- 9Neuf
  [nuhf]
- 10Dix
  [deez]
- Where's a/the...?Où est un/une...?
  [oo eh uhn/ewn]
- What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kel eh la-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-vay voo muh mohn-tray (sur lah kart)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn eh leuh pro-shen (bus)]
- A ticket (to....)Un billet (pour....)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor....)]

History of Provence

Provence boasts a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It was originally inhabited by Ligurian and Celtic tribes before becoming a significant part of the Roman Empire. The Romans left a profound mark on Provence, evident in the well-preserved remnants such as the Pont du Gard, a towering aqueduct, and the Roman amphitheater in Arles. These structures showcase the architectural prowess and societal organization of the Roman era, making Provence a treasure trove for history enthusiasts.
Provence played a crucial role in the early spread of Christianity in Europe. In the 1st century AD, it saw the arrival of early Christian missionaries, including Mary Magdalene, who, according to legend, landed in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. The region is dotted with ancient churches and monasteries, such as the Abbey of Saint-Victor in Marseille, which stands as a testament to the region's early adoption of Christianity and its significance in religious history.
The medieval period was a time of prosperity for Provence, marked by the flourishing of art and culture. The region became the birthplace of the troubadours, medieval poet-musicians who composed and performed songs of chivalry and courtly love. Cities like Avignon and Aix-en-Provence were cultural hubs where these artists thrived. The medieval architecture, including the Palais des Papes in Avignon, reflects the grandeur and cultural vitality of Provence during this era.
One of the most significant historical events in Provence was the Avignon Papacy (1309-1377), when seven successive popes resided in Avignon rather than Rome. This period transformed Avignon into a center of European politics and religion. The Palais des Papes, one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe, stands as a monument to this era. The papal influence brought economic growth and cultural development, leaving a lasting legacy on the region.
The Renaissance and Baroque periods brought further cultural enrichment to Provence. The revival of art and literature during the Renaissance is evident in the architecture and urban planning of cities like Aix-en-Provence. The Baroque style influenced many buildings, including the ornate facades of churches and civic buildings. The Hôtel de Ville in Aix-en-Provence is a prime example of Baroque architecture and reflects the artistic dynamism of this period.
Provence was not immune to the upheaval of the French Revolution. The region experienced significant social and political changes during this turbulent period. Revolutionary fervor swept through Provence, leading to the establishment of new administrative divisions and the spread of revolutionary ideas. The impact of the revolution is still visible in the civic architecture and public spaces, such as the Place d'Albertas in Aix-en-Provence, which was redesigned to reflect the new republican ideals.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Provence became a haven for artists, particularly those of the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist movements. The region's stunning landscapes and unique quality of light attracted painters like Vincent van Gogh, Paul Cézanne, and Henri Matisse. Van Gogh's time in Arles and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence produced some of his most famous works. Cézanne's depictions of Mont Sainte-Victoire near Aix-en-Provence have become iconic representations of the region. This artistic legacy continues to draw art lovers to Provence.