7-Day Provence Travel Guide: Lavender Fields, Hilltop Villages & South French Charm

If you’re dreaming of rolling lavender fields, sun-baked stone villages, and the slow pace of South French life, Provence is the perfect escape. As a local who’s spent over a decade helping travelers explore this region, I’ve put together a 100% actionable 7-day itinerary that skips the tourist traps and dives deep into the real Provence. This guide is made for travelers from Europe and beyond—whether you’re driving from Paris, flying into Marseille, or taking the train from Barcelona. No fluff, just real tips, exact spots to eat and sleep, and a breakdown of how to get around like a local.

First, let’s get the basics out of the way—these are the things that will make or break your trip, especially if you’re visiting during peak lavender season (June to August). I’ll keep it simple, no fancy jargon, just what you need to know to show up and have a great time.

Before You Go: Key Prep Tips (Don’t Skip These!)

Best Time to Visit

Forget the “best time” hype—here’s the real deal. June to mid-July is when the lavender is in full bloom (especially in Valensole Plateau), but it’s also the busiest, hottest (temperatures hit 30°C+), and most expensive. If you want to avoid crowds and still get great weather, go in May, late July to August (some lavender still blooms), or September. The air is cooler, restaurants are less packed, and you’ll get a more authentic feel for the region. I personally recommend September—harvest season, so the fields have a golden hue, and the local markets are full of fresh figs and olive oil.

How to Get to Provence (International & Local Transport)

International travelers have two main options for arriving: Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) or Avignon TGV Train Station. Marseille’s airport has flights from major European cities (London, Berlin, Madrid, etc.) and some international hubs—rent a car right at the airport (more on that below) and drive 45 minutes to Avignon. If you’re coming from Paris, take the TGV high-speed train—it’s 2.5 hours straight to Avignon, no traffic, no hassle, and you’ll arrive in the heart of the region.

Local transport? RENT A CAR. I can’t stress this enough. Provence is all about small villages, hidden lavender fields, and winding mountain roads—public transport (TER regional trains and LER buses) works between big towns like Avignon and Arles, but once you get to the Luberon or Verdon Gorge, buses run once or twice a day (if you’re lucky). Renting a car gives you total freedom to stop whenever you see a perfect photo spot or a random village that looks interesting.

I recommend booking your car in advance—Sixt or Europcar are the most reliable here (I’ve used both for years, and their customer service is solid for international travelers). You’ll need your home country’s driver’s license plus an international driving permit (IDP)—don’t skip the IDP, rental companies won’t let you drive without it. Compact cars are best—some mountain roads are narrow, and parking in villages is tight. Gas stations are easy to find on main roads, but fill up before heading into the Luberon or Verdon—small villages might only have a tiny gas pump that’s closed on Sundays.

Accommodation Strategy (Book Early!)

I’ve designed this itinerary so you don’t have to pack up every day—we’ll stay in 4 main areas, which keeps things low-stress. Here’s the breakdown:

• Avignon: 2 nights (base for exploring the city and nearby spots)
• Luberon Mountains: 2 nights (immerse yourself in hilltop villages and lavender)
• Valensole/Verdon Gorge: 2 nights (close to lavender fields and natural wonders)
• Arles: 1 night (final stop, easy to head to Marseille airport or train station the next day)

What to book? Skip the big chain hotels—Provence is all about charm. Go for a boutique hotel (I love Hôtel de Boutaille in Avignon—small, cozy, and steps from the old town) or a Chambre d’hôte (country guesthouse). These are run by locals, they’ll give you insider tips (like the best hidden lavender fields), and most include a homemade breakfast with fresh bread, jam, and local honey. Book 3 months in advance if you’re visiting June-August—rooms sell out fast. For the Luberon and Valensole, look for guesthouses with a pool—you’ll thank me after a day of hiking and sightseeing in the sun.

Budget Breakdown (Per Person, Mid-Range)

No one likes surprise costs, so here’s a realistic budget (excluding international flights):

• Accommodation: €800-1200 (7 nights, mid-range boutique hotels/guesthouses)
• Car Rental + Gas: €400-600 (compact car, 7 days—gas is around €1.70 per liter in Provence)
• Food & Drinks: €500-700 (3 meals a day, including a nice dinner most nights, plus local wine/coffee)
• Attraction Tickets: €150-200 (museums, palaces, etc.—many villages and lavender fields are free!)
• Total: €1850-2700 per person

You can save money by eating lunch at casual cafés (€10-15 per meal) and cooking breakfast at your guesthouse (most have kitchens or kitchenettes). Splurge on one or two nice dinners—Provence’s food is worth it.

Must-Pack Items

Provence is sunny—like, really sunny. Don’t forget: sunscreen (SPF 50+), a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes (you’ll be walking on cobblestones in villages and hiking in fields). A reusable water bottle is a must—tap water is safe to drink here, and it’s better for the environment. If you’re visiting in June-August, pack light, breathable clothes (linen is perfect) and a light jacket for evenings (mountains can get cool at night). And bring a camera—you’ll want to capture every lavender field and stone village.

Day-by-Day Provence Itinerary (7 Days, Actionable & Practical)

This itinerary is a loop: Avignon → Luberon → Valensole → Verdon Gorge → Arles. It’s designed to be flexible—if you love a spot, stay longer. If you’re tired, skip a stop. No rush, that’s the Provence way.

Day 1: Avignon Old Town – Papal History & South French Vibes

Morning: Arrive & Settle In

Land at Marseille Airport or arrive at Avignon TGV Station. Pick up your rental car (if flying) or walk to your hotel (if taking the train)—I recommend staying in the Avignon Old Town (within the city walls) for easy access to everything. Check into your hotel (Hôtel de l’Horloge is my top pick—it’s in the center, has cozy rooms, and a small rooftop with views of the old town). Drop off your bags, grab a coffee at a nearby café (try Café des Deux Garçons—an iconic spot since 1792), and get your bearings.

Afternoon: Explore Avignon’s Iconic Spots

Start with the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes)—this is the main attraction in Avignon, and for good reason. It’s the largest Gothic palace in Europe, and back in the 14th century, it was the home of the popes (they moved here from Rome to escape political trouble). Buy a ticket online in advance (€17 per person) to skip the lines—trust me, the lines get long in summer. Spend 2 hours exploring the palace: walk through the grand halls, check out the frescoes (they’re still vibrant after 700 years), and climb to the top for views of Avignon and the Rhône River. Pro tip: Bring a fan or water bottle—the palace gets hot, and there’s not much shade.

Next, walk 5 minutes to the Pont d’Avignon (Avignon Bridge)—the famous “broken bridge” you’ve probably seen in photos. The bridge was built in the 12th century but collapsed in a flood in the 17th century, leaving only 4 of the original 22 arches. Walk across the bridge (ticket is included in the Avignon Pass, which I recommend buying—it’s €25 and includes the palace, bridge, and city walls) and take photos of the Rhône River. If you’re feeling adventurous, climb the small tower at the end of the bridge for even better views.

After the bridge, wander the Avignon Old Town streets. The streets are narrow, cobblestoned, and lined with colorful buildings, boutiques, and cafés. Stop in a local shop to buy a small bottle of lavender oil (a classic Provence souvenir) or browse the local art galleries. Don’t rush—this is the perfect time to soak up the South French vibe.

Dinner: Authentic Provençal Cuisine

For your first Provençal dinner, head to La Vieille Fontaine—a family-run restaurant in the old town that’s been around for over 50 years. The menu is simple but delicious, with classic Provençal dishes. Order the Ratatouille (a vegetable stew with tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, and herbs)—it’s homemade, hearty, and full of flavor. Pair it with a glass of local Châteauneuf-du-Pape (a red wine from the nearby village of the same name) or a crisp rosé (Provence’s signature wine—light, fruity, and perfect for warm weather). For dessert, try the Tarte Tatin (caramel apple tart)—it’s sweet, buttery, and melts in your mouth. Dinner will cost around €35-45 per person (including wine).

Evening: Relax & Unwind

After dinner, take a stroll along the Avignon City Walls (part of the Avignon Pass). The walls are 4.3 kilometers long and offer beautiful views of the old town at dusk. If you’re visiting in July, check if there’s a performance at the Avignon Festival (the largest theater festival in the world)—the streets come alive with actors, musicians, and crowds. If not, grab a drink at a rooftop bar (try Hôtel Particulier Montfort’s rooftop) and watch the sun set over the city.

Day 1 Tips

• Buy the Avignon Pass—it saves money and time, especially if you’re visiting multiple attractions.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes—the old town’s cobblestones are uneven.
• Restaurants in Avignon open for dinner at 7:30 PM—don’t show up earlier, they won’t be open.

Day 2: Fontaine-de-Vaucluse & Orange – Springs, Rivers & Roman History

Morning: Drive to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse (40 Minutes from Avignon)

Wake up early (around 8 AM) to beat the crowds and the heat. Grab breakfast at your hotel (homemade croissants and coffee—you won’t find better) and hit the road. Drive 40 minutes north of Avignon to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, a small village built around Europe’s largest underground spring. The drive is beautiful—winding roads through green hills and small villages. Park your car in the village parking lot (€5 per day) and walk into the village.

The main attraction here is the Source de la Sorgue (Sorgue Spring)—the water is crystal clear, and it’s surrounded by lush greenery. Walk along the riverbank to the spring (it’s a 10-minute walk from the village center). You can take a boat tour on the river (€12 per person, 30 minutes)—it’s a great way to see the spring up close and learn about the village’s history. If you’re visiting in summer (June-August), you can rent a kayak or canoe (€15 per hour) and paddle down the river—it’s cool and refreshing, perfect for beating the heat. Spend about 2 hours here—enough time to explore the spring, walk around the village, and take photos.

Lunch: Les Jardins de la Fontaine (Fontaine-de-Vaucluse)

For lunch, eat at Les Jardins de la Fontaine, a restaurant right on the riverbank. The menu focuses on fresh, local ingredients—try the Truite de la Sorgue (trout from the Sorgue River), grilled with herbs and lemon. It’s fresh, light, and perfect for a warm day. Pair it with a glass of local white wine (Côtes du Ventoux) and a side salad of fresh greens. Lunch will cost around €20-25 per person.

Afternoon: Drive to Orange (30 Minutes from Fontaine-de-Vaucluse)

After lunch, drive 30 minutes west to Orange, a small town famous for its well-preserved Roman ruins. The main attraction here is the Théâtre Antique d’Orange (Ancient Roman Theater)—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world. Built in the 1st century AD, it could seat 9,000 people, and it’s still used for concerts and performances today.

Buy a ticket (€12 per person) and explore the theater. Walk up the stone steps to the top row for views of the town and the surrounding hills. Check out the stage wall (it’s 37 meters high, the only one of its kind still standing in the Roman world) and the ancient carvings. If you’re lucky, you might catch a rehearsal or a guided tour (free with your ticket). Spend about 1.5 hours here—enough time to soak up the history and take plenty of photos.

After the theater, walk into Orange’s town center. It’s a small, charming town with narrow streets, cafés, and shops. Stop at a local bakery to buy a pastry (try the Financier, a small almond cake) and a coffee. Wander the town square (Place de la République) and check out the 12th-century Orange Cathedral.

Evening: Return to Avignon & Explore the Market

Drive back to Avignon (30 minutes) and check out the Marché Les Halles, a covered market in the old town. The market is open until 7 PM on weekdays and 1 PM on Saturdays (closed Sundays). It’s a great place to buy local products: fresh olives, olive oil, lavender honey, cheese, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Talk to the vendors—they’re friendly and happy to give you samples. Buy a few snacks (cheese, bread, fruit) to enjoy for breakfast the next day.

For dinner, keep it casual—eat at a café in the market or grab a pizza from Pizzeria Chez Mario (a local favorite). Pizza is around €12-15, and it’s delicious. After dinner, relax at your hotel—tomorrow we head to the Luberon Mountains, and you’ll need your energy.

Day 2 Tips

• Fontaine-de-Vaucluse gets crowded after 10 AM—arrive early to avoid the crowds.
• Bring water and sunscreen for the drive and the walks—there’s not much shade in Orange’s Roman Theater.
• The market in Avignon is cash-only—bring euros with you.

Day 3: Luberon Mountains – Gordes, Sénanque Abbey & Roussillon

Morning: Drive to Gordes (1 Hour from Avignon)

Today is all about the Luberon Mountains—some of the most beautiful countryside in Provence. Wake up early (8 AM), grab breakfast (the snacks you bought at the market yesterday), and check out of your Avignon hotel. Drive 1 hour east to Gordes, a hilltop village known as the “Jewel of the Luberon.” The drive is stunning—winding roads through olive groves and vineyards, with views of the mountains in the distance.

Park your car in the village parking lot (€6 per day)—the village is pedestrian-only, so you’ll have to walk up the hill to the center. Gordes is built on a cliff, and every street offers breathtaking views of the Luberon Valley. Start by walking to the Château de Gordes (Gordes Castle)—a 12th-century castle that’s now a museum. The castle has a small garden and views of the village and the valley below. Admission is €8 per person, and it’s worth it for the views.

After the castle, wander the village streets. The houses are made of golden stone, and the streets are lined with colorful flowers and boutiques. Stop at a local shop to buy lavender products (soap, candles, honey)—Gordes is famous for its lavender. Take plenty of photos—every corner of Gordes is picture-perfect. Spend about 1.5 hours here.

Late Morning: Drive to Abbaye de Sénanque (10 Minutes from Gordes)

From Gordes, drive 10 minutes south to the Abbaye de Sénanque (Sénanque Abbey)—a 12th-century Cistercian abbey surrounded by lavender fields. This is one of the most iconic spots in Provence, especially in June and July, when the lavender is in full bloom. The abbey is still home to monks, so be quiet and respectful when you visit.

Buy a ticket (€10 per person) to explore the abbey and the lavender fields. Walk through the abbey’s cloisters (beautiful stone arches) and the church, then head outside to the lavender fields. The fields are located right behind the abbey, and they’re perfect for photos. Pro tip: Visit in the morning (before 11 AM) or late afternoon— the light is soft, and the photos will be better. Spend about 1 hour here—enough time to explore the abbey and take photos in the lavender fields.

Lunch: La Trinquette (Gordes)

Drive back to Gordes for lunch at La Trinquette, a Michelin-recommended restaurant in the heart of the village. The restaurant is small and cozy, with a menu that focuses on local, seasonal ingredients. Try the Côte de Agneau Rôti (roast lamb chop) with lavender honey—it’s tender, flavorful, and a perfect combination of savory and sweet. Pair it with a glass of local rosé and a side of roasted vegetables. Lunch will cost around €40-50 per person, but it’s worth the splurge—this is one of the best restaurants in the Luberon.

Afternoon: Drive to Roussillon (30 Minutes from Gordes)

After lunch, drive 30 minutes east to Roussillon, a village famous for its ochre cliffs and red stone houses. The village is built on a hill of ochre (a natural pigment used in paint), and the houses are painted in shades of red, orange, and yellow—it’s like walking into a postcard. Park your car in the village parking lot (€5 per day) and walk into the village.

Start with the Sentier des Ocres (Ochre Trail)—a 2.5-kilometer hiking trail through the ochre cliffs. The trail is easy, and it offers stunning views of the cliffs and the surrounding countryside. The ochre cliffs are bright red and orange, and the trail winds through them—take plenty of photos. The trail takes about 1 hour to complete. After the trail, wander the village streets—visit the ochre museum (€6 per person) to learn about the history of ochre in Roussillon, or browse the local shops (many sell ochre products like paint and pottery).

Evening: Drive to Sault & Check Into Your Guesthouse

Drive 20 minutes north to Sault, a small village in the Luberon Mountains known as the “Capital of Lavender.” Check into your guesthouse—Mas de la Rose is my top pick. It’s a beautiful country guesthouse with a garden, a pool, and cozy rooms. The owners are locals, and they’ll give you tips on the best lavender fields to visit tomorrow. After checking in, relax by the pool for a while—you’ve earned it after a day of driving and hiking.

For dinner, eat at the guesthouse (if they offer dinner)—Mas de la Rose serves homemade Provençal dishes with ingredients from their garden. Try the Boeuf Bourguignon (beef stew) and the Crème Brûlée for dessert. Dinner will cost around €30 per person, and it’s casual and delicious. If the guesthouse doesn’t serve dinner, drive 5 minutes into Sault and eat at Le Relais de Sault, a casual café serving pizza and Provençal dishes.

Day 3 Tips

• Sénanque Abbey’s lavender fields are most beautiful in mid-June to mid-July—if you’re visiting outside of that time, the fields will be either green (early June) or harvested (late July onwards).
• The Ochre Trail in Roussillon can be dusty—wear closed-toe shoes.
• Sault is a small village—most restaurants close early (around 9 PM), so eat dinner before then.

Day 4: Valensole Plateau – Lavender Fields & Local Farms

Morning: Drive to Valensole Plateau (1 Hour from Sault)

Today is the highlight of many travelers’ trips to Provence: the Valensole Plateau, home to the largest lavender fields in Provence. Wake up early (7 AM)—this is the best time to visit the lavender fields (cooler, softer light, no crowds). Grab breakfast at your guesthouse (fresh bread, jam, and coffee) and hit the road. Drive 1 hour south to Valensole Plateau—the drive is beautiful, winding through mountains and small villages.

The Valensole Plateau is a vast, flat area covered in lavender fields—stretching as far as the eye can see. The best way to explore is to drive along the D6 and D8 roads—these roads wind through the fields, and there are plenty of pull-off spots to stop and take photos. Here are my top spots to visit:

• Lavandes Angelvin: A family-run lavender farm with rows of lavender and a small shop. You can walk through the fields (free) and buy lavender products (oil, soap, honey) in the shop. The owners are friendly and happy to answer questions about lavender farming.
• Château de Valensole: A 17th-century castle surrounded by lavender fields. The castle itself is not open to the public, but the fields around it are perfect for photos.
• Route des Lavandes: A section of the D8 road that’s lined with lavender fields—this is where you’ll find the most iconic photos of Valensole.

Spend 3-4 hours exploring the plateau—stop whenever you see a beautiful field, take photos, and breathe in the scent of lavender. Pro tip: Don’t walk in the lavender fields unless there’s a sign saying it’s allowed—many farmers don’t want people trampling their crops.

Lunch: Picnic in the Lavender Fields

For a true Provençal experience, have a picnic in the lavender fields. Stop at a grocery store in Valensole village (Marché U is a good option) before heading to the plateau. Buy fresh bread, local cheese (try Chevre—goat cheese, a Provence specialty), cured meats, fresh fruit (figs or peaches are in season in summer), and a bottle of rosé. Find a quiet spot in the fields (a pull-off on the D6 road) and enjoy your picnic. It’s cheap (€15-20 per person), delicious, and unforgettable—you’ll be surrounded by lavender and the sound of birds.

Afternoon: Visit the Lavender Museum (Musée de la Lavande)

After your picnic, drive to the Musée de la Lavande (Lavender Museum) in Valensole village. The museum is dedicated to the history of lavender farming in Provence—you’ll learn how lavender is grown, harvested, and distilled into oil. There’s a small distillery on-site, and you can watch a demonstration of how lavender oil is made (free with admission). Admission is €8 per person, and it’s a great way to learn more about this iconic Provençal crop. Spend about 1 hour here.

Evening: Drive to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie & Check Into Your Hotel

Drive 1 hour east to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a small village in the Verdon Gorge known for its ceramics. Check into your hotel—La Bastide de Moustiers is my top pick. It’s a luxury boutique hotel run by a Michelin-starred chef, and it has a beautiful garden and a pool. The rooms are spacious and cozy, with views of the village and the mountains. After checking in, relax by the pool or wander the village streets.

For dinner, eat at the hotel’s restaurant (La Bastide de Moustiers)—it’s one of the best restaurants in the Verdon Gorge. The menu focuses on local ingredients, with a modern twist on Provençal dishes. Try the Lobster Ravioli and the Duck Breast with Lavender Sauce. Pair it with a glass of local wine and a dessert of Tarte aux Fruits de la Passion (passion fruit tart). Dinner will cost around €60-70 per person, but it’s a special treat—worth it for the food and the atmosphere.

Day 4 Tips

• Valensole Plateau gets very hot in the afternoon (35°C+ in July)—visit in the morning and early afternoon to avoid the heat.
• Bring cash to the grocery store in Valensole—some small stores don’t take credit cards.
• Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a small village—parking is limited, so arrive early to find a spot.

Day 5: Verdon Gorge & Sainte-Croix Lake – Natural Wonders & Outdoor Adventure

Morning: Drive to Verdon Gorge (15 Minutes from Moustiers-Sainte-Marie)

Today is all about nature—exploring the Verdon Gorge, also known as the “Grand Canyon of Europe.” Wake up early (8 AM), grab breakfast at your hotel (a gourmet spread with fresh pastries, fruit, and coffee), and hit the road. Drive 15 minutes north to the Verdon Gorge—the drive is stunning, winding through mountains with views of the gorge below.

The Verdon Gorge is 25 kilometers long and 700 meters deep, with crystal-clear turquoise water. The best way to explore is to drive along the Route des Crêtes (Ridge Road)—a scenic road that runs along the top of the gorge, with multiple viewpoints . Here are my top viewpoints to stop at:

• Point Sublime: The most famous viewpoint—offers panoramic views of the gorge and the Verdon River. This is the best spot to take photos.
• Belvédère de la Mescla: Views of the confluence of the Verdon and Artuby rivers.
• Belvédère de l’Escalès: A quiet viewpoint with views of the river and the surrounding mountains.

Spend 2-3 hours driving along the Route des Crêtes—stop at each viewpoint, take photos, and soak in the beauty of the gorge. Pro tip: Bring a pair of binoculars—you might see eagles or other birds of prey flying above the gorge.

Lunch: Le Panoramic (Sainte-Croix Lake)

After exploring the gorge, drive 30 minutes south to Sainte-Croix Lake, a man-made lake at the foot of the Verdon Gorge. The lake is surrounded by mountains, and the water is turquoise—perfect for swimming, boating, and relaxing. Eat lunch at Le Panoramic, a restaurant right on the lake with stunning views. The menu focuses on fresh seafood and local dishes—try the Salade de Poisson (fish salad) or the Poulet Grillé (grilled chicken) with roasted potatoes. Pair it with a glass of cold rosé and enjoy the view. Lunch will cost around €25-30 per person.

Afternoon: Boat Trip on Sainte-Croix Lake

After lunch, rent a pedal boat or a small motorboat (from Pedalos Sainte-Croix, €15 per hour for a pedal boat, €30 per hour for a motorboat) and explore the lake. It’s a great way to cool off and see the lake from a different perspective. You can paddle to hidden coves, swim in the lake (the water is cool but refreshing), or just relax and enjoy the sun. Spend about 2 hours here—enough time to explore the lake and swim.

If you’re not into boating, you can hike along the lake’s shore (there are several easy trails) or just relax on the beach (Plage de la Palud is a popular spot).

Evening: Drive to Arles (1 Hour 30 Minutes from Sainte-Croix Lake)

After your afternoon on the lake, pack up and drive 1 hour 30 minutes west to Arles, a historic city known for its Roman ruins and its connection to Vincent van Gogh. Check into your hotel—Hôtel du Cloître is my top pick. It’s a boutique hotel in the heart of Arles, housed in a 17th-century convent. The rooms are cozy, and the hotel has a beautiful courtyard. After checking in, relax for a while—you’ve had a busy day of driving and exploring.

For dinner, eat at L’Atelier, a creative Provençal restaurant in the old town. The menu changes daily, based on local ingredients. Try the Tuna Tartare with avocado and citrus, or the Lamb Shank braised in red wine. Pair it with a glass of local red wine (Côtes de Provence) and a dessert of Crème Catalane (similar to Crème Brûlée, but with cinnamon). Dinner will cost around €45-55 per person.

Day 5 Tips

• The Route des Crêtes is narrow and winding—drive slowly and be careful of oncoming traffic.
• Sainte-Croix Lake gets crowded in summer—rent a boat early to avoid the lines.
• The drive from Sainte-Croix Lake to Arles is long—fill up your gas tank before leaving the lake area.

Day 6: Arles – Van Gogh, Roman Ruins & Camargue Wetlands

Morning: Explore Arles’ Roman Ruins

Wake up at 9 AM (you deserve a lie-in!) and grab breakfast at your hotel (fresh croissants, coffee, and fruit). Arles is a city with a rich history—founded by the Romans in 46 BC, and later home to Vincent van Gogh (he lived here for 15 months and painted over 300 works of art). Start your day with the Roman ruins—they’re located in the heart of the old town.

First, visit the Arènes d’Arles (Arles Amphitheater)—a well-preserved Roman amphitheater built in the 1st century AD. It could seat 20,000 people and was used for gladiator fights and chariot races. Today, it’s still used for bullfights and concerts. Buy a ticket (€9 per person) and walk around the amphitheater—climb to the top row for views of the city. Spend about 1 hour here.

Next, walk 5 minutes to the Théâtre Antique d’Arles (Ancient Roman Theater)—another well-preserved Roman ruin. Built in the 1st century AD, it could seat 10,000 people and was used for plays and performances. The theater has a beautiful stage wall and ancient columns. Admission is €7 per person (or €14 for a combined ticket with the amphitheater). Spend about 45 minutes here.

Late Morning: Explore Van Gogh’s Arles

After the Roman ruins, explore the spots that inspired Vincent van Gogh. Start with the Fondation Vincent van Gogh Arles (Van Gogh Foundation)—a museum dedicated to Van Gogh’s time in Arles. The museum has a collection of Van Gogh’s works, as well as works by other artists inspired by him. Admission is €12 per person. Spend about 1 hour here.

Next, walk to the Café Terrace at Night—the spot where Van Gogh painted his famous painting of the same name. The café is still open today (it’s called Café Van Gogh), and it looks almost exactly like it did in Van Gogh’s painting. Stop in for a coffee (€4) and take a photo—you’ll feel like you’re in the painting.

Other Van Gogh spots to visit: the Hospital of Arles (where Van Gogh stayed after cutting off his ear), and the Langlois Bridge (painted by Van Gogh multiple times). Wander the streets of Arles—many of the buildings and scenes are the same as they were in Van Gogh’s time.

Lunch: Place du Forum (Arles)

For lunch, eat at a café on the Place du Forum, Arles’ main square. The square is surrounded by cafés and restaurants, and it’s a great place to people-watch. Try La Petite Maison, a casual café serving local dishes. Order thePaella (influenced by nearby Spain)—it’s full of seafood and flavor. Pair it with a glass of rosé and a side of garlic bread. Lunch will cost around €20-25 per person.

Afternoon: Drive to Camargue Wetlands (30 Minutes from Arles)

After lunch, drive 30 minutes south to the Camargue Wetlands, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its wild horses, flamingos, and salt flats. The Camargue is a unique ecosystem—flat, marshy land with saltwater lagoons and freshwater rivers. Park your car in the Parc Ornithologique du Pont de Gau (Gau Bridge Bird Park) parking lot (€6 per day)—this is the best spot to see flamingos and other birds.

Buy a ticket to the bird park (€10 per person) and walk through the trails. The park is home to over 250 species of birds, including flamingos (they’re here year-round, but the best time to see them is from March to October). You’ll also see herons, egrets, and other water birds. Spend about 1.5 hours here—enough time to see the birds and walk through the wetlands.

After the bird park, drive around the Camargue to see the wild white horses. The horses are free-roaming, and you’ll often see them grazing in the fields or walking along the roads. The best spot to see them is near the Salin de Giraud (salt flats). Stop and take photos—they’re beautiful and majestic. Spend about 1 hour driving around the Camargue.

Evening: Return to Arles & Farewell Dinner

Drive back to Arles (30 minutes) and relax at your hotel for a while. For your final dinner in Provence, splurge on La Chassagnette, a Michelin-starred restaurant just outside of Arles. The restaurant is located on a farm, and all the ingredients are fresh and local. Try the Foie Gras Torchon with fig jam, the Sea Bass with vegetables from the farm, and the Chocolate Soufflé for dessert. Pair it with a bottle of local wine—ask the sommelier for a recommendation. Dinner will cost around €80-100 per person, but it’s a perfect way to end your trip.

Day 6 Tips

• The Camargue is flat and windy—bring a light jacket, even on warm days.
• The wild horses are shy—don’t get too close, and don’t feed them.
• La Chassagnette is popular—book a table in advance (at least 1 month).

Day 7: Marseille – Seafood, Culture & Departure

Morning: Drive to Marseille (1 Hour from Arles)

Today is your final day in Provence—we’ll head to Marseille, the largest city in the South of France, for seafood and a final taste of South French culture. Wake up early (8 AM), grab breakfast at your hotel, and check out. Drive 1 hour west to Marseille—the drive is along the coast, with beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Park your car in the Vieux Port (Old Port) parking lot (€8 per day)—this is the heart of Marseille. The Old Port is a bustling harbor with fishing boats, cafés, and restaurants. Start by walking along the harbor—watch the fishermen unload their catch, and take photos of the boats. Visit the Notre-Dame de la Garde (Our Lady of the Guard), a basilica located on a hill overlooking the city. You can take a bus (line 60) or walk up the hill (20 minutes). The basilica is beautiful, with a golden statue of the Virgin Mary on top. The views from the basilica are stunning—you can see the Old Port, the Mediterranean Sea, and the entire city of Marseille. Admission is free. Spend about 1.5 hours here.

Lunch: Bouillabaisse at Le Miramar (Marseille)

No trip to Marseille is complete without trying Bouillabaisse, a traditional seafood stew. Eat at Le Miramar, a famous restaurant in the Old Port that’s been serving bouillabaisse since 1870. The bouillabaisse is made with fresh fish (caught that morning), shellfish, and herbs— it’s rich, flavorful, and served with crusty bread and rouille (a garlic and saffron sauce). Order the “Bouillabaisse Classique” (€45 per person)—it’s enough for one person, and it’s delicious. Pair it with a glass of local white wine (Côtes de Provence Blanc). Lunch will cost around €50-60 per person, but it’s a must-try.

Afternoon: Explore Marseille’s Le Panier Neighborhood & Departure

After lunch, wander the Le Panier neighborhood, a historic district near the Old Port. The neighborhood is full of colorful buildings, street art, boutiques, and cafés. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs—try local olive oil, lavender products, or Marseille soap (a traditional soap made with olive oil). Stop at a café for a coffee or a pastry, and soak up the Marseille vibe.

Depending on your flight or train time, return your rental car to the Marseille Provence Airport (20 minutes from the Old Port) or drive to the Marseille TGV Station (30 minutes from the Old Port). Drop off your car (make sure to fill up the gas tank and check for any damage) and head to your departure point. Say goodbye to Provence—you’ll be back!

Day 7 Tips

• Le Miramar is very popular—book a table in advance (at least 2 days).
• Le Panier can be a bit rough in some areas—stick to the main streets.
• Return your rental car at least 1 hour before your flight/train to avoid any delays.

Final Practical Tips for Your Provence Trip

• Language: Most people in Provence speak French, but many in tourist areas (Avignon, Valensole, Arles) speak English. Learn a few basic French phrases (“Bonjour” = Hello, “Merci” = Thank you, “S’il vous plaît” = Please)—locals will appreciate it.
• Money: France uses the euro (€). Credit cards are accepted in most restaurants and hotels, but small shops, markets, and cafés may only take cash. Bring enough cash for small purchases.
• Opening Hours: Shops and restaurants in Provence have different opening hours than many other European countries. Most shops are open 9 AM-12 PM and 2 PM-7 PM (closed for lunch). Restaurants are open for lunch 12 PM-2 PM and dinner 7:30 PM-10 PM. Many shops and restaurants are closed on Sundays.
• Weather: Provence is sunny and dry in summer (June-August), with temperatures up to 35°C. In spring (May) and fall (September), temperatures are mild (20-25°C), and there’s less rain. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses no matter when you visit.
• Safety: Provence is a safe region, but like any tourist area, be careful of pickpockets in crowded spots (Avignon Old Town, Valensole Plateau, Marseille Old Port). Keep your valuables (wallet, phone, camera) safe.
• Emergency: The emergency number in France is 112 (free, works with any phone).

Provence is more than just lavender fields—it’s a region of history, culture, delicious food, and warm people. This 7-day itinerary will take you to the best spots, but don’t be afraid to deviate from the plan. Stop at a random village, eat at a small café, or just sit in a lavender field and relax. That’s the Provence way—slow down, soak it in, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

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From the science of the Northern Lights to the culture of saunas, I specialize in demystifying Scandinavia. Let me help you plTan a Nordic adventure that’s as deep as it is extraordinary.

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