Things to do in Provence

All about Provence

When to visit

The best time to visit Provence is from mid-June to early August when the lavender fields are bursting with color and festivals celebrating the purple flower pop up around the region. Long, languid summer days are also made for basking outside long after the sun sets with a chilled Provençal rosé in hand. Don’t eschew winter, however: You’ll find much cheaper accommodation this time of year, and Provence enjoys a mild climate year-round.

Getting around

Provence is a vast region, so the most practical way to get around depends on where you’d like to go. Big cities such as Marseille and Aix-en-Provence have good public transport—and in Marseille in particular, a car is a hindrance. If you’re planning on exploring rural Provence, rent a car. A spectacular road trip route will take you through some of the prettiest villages in the country, including Gordes and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.

Traveler tips

Provence may conjure images of sun-drenched vineyards, olive groves, and beaches, but did you know you can ski here? The Alpes-Maritimes and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence have world-class ski resorts. Super Sauze is one of the best, rising to over 7,874 feet (2,400 meters) above sea level. Further south, Isola 2000, hugging the Italian border, is just two hours from the coast, meaning a day can begin with snow on your boots and finish with sand between your toes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Provence, France known for?

The region of Provence is known for its scenery and soft light, both of which have attracted creative souls (such as Vincent van Gogh and Paul Cézanne) to its towns for centuries. Provence is also famous for its wine and for the lavender fields that spring into fragrant bloom each summer.

What is the most beautiful place in Provence?

This depends on the season. During lavender season, the Valensole Plateau offers striking purple beauty. At other times, Calanques National Park is the place to go for the rugged splendor of wild coastal cliffs and bays, while the town of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is beloved for its dramatic perch on the limestone mountains.

Is Provence, France worth visiting?

Absolutely. A visit to this diverse region full of lavender fields, gorgeous villages, and art history would be a highlight of any trip. Provence is also home to the French Riviera, the stretch of coast known for its seaside villages and famous coastal cities like Nice, Cannes, and St-Tropez.

What is the best time of year to visit Provence?

There’s not really a bad time to visit; the region is sunny all year round. If you want to see the lavender in bloom and bask on the beaches, summer is the time to go. Otherwise, visit in spring or fall for warm weather with fewer crowds.

How many days do you need in Provence?

Provence is a region, not a city, so it’s difficult to say. If you make Provence the sole focus of your trip and plan stays in different towns, beach fun, and forays inland to learn about the region’s Roman heritage, there’s enough to keep you busy for two weeks—or longer.

What is the meaning of Provence?

The region’s name can be traced to the Roman era, when it was known as Provincia Romana or the Roman Province. That name likely evolved over the centuries; there’s little evidence to suggest that the word ever had other meanings.

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