self-driving Provence 7-day itinerary Provence lavender fields tour June-July Avignon to Aix-en-Provence art itinerary
Provence, a region in southeastern France, is synonymous with sun-drenched landscapes, vibrant lavender fields, medieval hilltop villages, and a rich tapestry of history and culture. This 7-day itinerary is meticulously crafted to balance iconic landmarks, immersive natural experiences, and authentic culinary delights, with a focus on practicality—perfect for travelers seeking to explore the heart of Provence, whether they’re from Europe or beyond. Designed with the summer season (peak lavender bloom) in mind, it can also be adapted for the milder months of May or September, offering a more relaxed experience away from the crowds.
Itinerary Overview
- Destination Coverage: Luberon Valley, Alpilles, Valensole Plateau, Verdon Gorge (key regions of Provence)
- Recommended Season: June–July (lavender blooming season) or May/September (off-peak, pleasant climate)
- Transportation: Self-driving is highly recommended for flexibility; alternatives include private car hire or local small-group tours
- Accommodation Bases: Avignon (central hub for the first half) + Valensole or Manosque (base for lavender and canyon explorations)
Day 1: Arrival in Avignon – Gateway to Provence
Avignon, often called the “City of Popes,” serves as the ideal starting point for a Provence journey, thanks to its excellent transportation links and central location.
Transportation
Travelers can reach Avignon via two primary routes: by train directly to Avignon TGV Station (connected to major European cities like Paris, Lyon, and Barcelona) or by flying into Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), followed by a 30-minute train ride to Avignon Central Station. For those arriving by air, the shuttle bus from Marseille Airport to the train station runs every 20 minutes, costing approximately €13 one-way, while a taxi would cost around €80–€100.
Attractions
Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes)
No visit to Avignon is complete without exploring the Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Constructed in the 14th century, it served as the residence of seven popes during the Great Schism, when the Catholic Church split between Rome and Avignon. The palace’s imposing stone walls, grand halls, and intricate chapels offer a glimpse into the Church’s political and spiritual power of the era. Highlights include the Grande Audience Hall, with its vaulted ceilings and 残存 murals, and the Chapelle Saint-Martial, adorned with 14th-century frescoes. Audio guides (available in English, French, and other languages for €6) are highly recommended to fully appreciate the palace’s history.
Pont d’Avignon (Saint-Bénézet Bridge)
Adjacent to the Palais des Papes stands the Pont d’Avignon, a legendary “broken bridge” that has become a symbol of Avignon. Originally built in the 12th century, the bridge once spanned the Rhône River but was partially destroyed by floods in the 17th century, leaving only four of its original 22 arches intact. The bridge’s fame is also tied to the traditional French song Sur le pont d’Avignon, which depicts people dancing on the bridge. Visitors can walk along the remaining arches for panoramic views of the Rhône and Avignon’s old town, and informational plaques along the way detail its construction and decline. As part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is often visited in conjunction with the Palais des Papes.
Dining
For dinner, head to Place de l’Horloge, Avignon’s lively central square framed by 18th-century buildings and a historic clock tower. The square is lined with restaurants and cafés, offering both traditional Provençal cuisine and international options. A must-try dish is ratatouille, a classic Provençal stew made with seasonal vegetables (tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and onions) slow-cooked with garlic, herbs de Provence, and olive oil. One standout spot is Le Petit Comptoir, a cozy bistro with outdoor seating; their ratatouille is served with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce, and they also offer bouillabaisse, a Provençal fish stew, for seafood lovers.
Accommodation
Staying within Avignon’s ancient city walls ensures easy access to attractions and dining. For mid-range travelers, IBIS Styles Avignon Centre Gare is an excellent choice—located a 5-minute walk from Avignon Central Station and 10 minutes from the Palais des Papes, it offers modern rooms with Provençal-inspired decor, a continental breakfast buffet, and a rooftop terrace with views of the city. For a more upscale experience, Hôtel de l’Europe is a historic 4-star hotel in the heart of the old town, housed in a 19th-century building. Its rooms feature antique furniture and some have balconies overlooking the street, and the on-site restaurant serves refined Provençal dishes.
Practical Tips
- Purchase the Avignon Passion Pass (€22 for 24 hours, €30 for 48 hours) to enjoy discounted entry to the Palais des Papes, Pont d’Avignon, and other local museums (such as the Musée du Petit Palais). The pass also includes free public transportation within the city.
- Avignon’s old town is pedestrian-friendly, but wear comfortable walking shoes as the streets are cobblestone.
- Most attractions are open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM in summer; arrive early (before 10:00 AM) to avoid crowds.
Day 2: Luberon Valley – Hilltop Villages and Lavender Serenity
The Luberon Valley, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is renowned for its picturesque hilltop villages, rolling vineyards, and, in summer, fields of lavender and sunflowers. A day trip here offers a quintessential Provençal experience.
Transportation
From Avignon, self-driving to the Luberon Valley takes approximately 1 hour via the D973 and D2 roads. For those without a car, local tour operators like Provence Local Tour offer day trips (€120 per person) that include transportation, guided tours of the villages, and stops at key attractions. If driving, note that village roads are narrow and winding, so a small to medium-sized car is recommended.
Attractions (Morning to Afternoon)
Gordes – The “Village in the Sky”
Your first stop is Gordes, often described as one of France’s most beautiful villages. Perched on a limestone cliff 370 meters above sea level, Gordes offers sweeping views of the Luberon Valley below. The village’s stone houses, built from local gray limestone, cascade down the cliffside, and its narrow streets are lined with art galleries, boutiques, and cafés. A highlight is the Château de Gordes, a 16th-century castle that now houses a museum of Provençal art (entry €8). From the castle’s terrace, you can see the valley stretching to the distant Alps on clear days. Don’t miss the Église Saint-Firmin, a 12th-century Romanesque church with a simple yet striking facade.
Abbaye de Sénanque – Lavender and Spirituality
A 10-minute drive from Gordes lies the Abbaye de Sénanque, a 12th-century Cistercian monastery nestled between lavender fields—one of Provence’s most iconic photo spots. The monastery was founded in 1148 by monks seeking solitude, and its austere architecture (characteristic of Cistercian design) contrasts beautifully with the vibrant purple lavender that surrounds it in June and July. Visitors can take guided tours of the monastery (€10, 45 minutes) to learn about the monks’ daily life, the history of the order, and the monastery’s restoration. The lavender fields in front of the abbey are private, but there is a designated viewing path—be sure to stay on the path to avoid damaging the plants. Important: Tours and entry to the lavender viewing area must be booked in advance via the monastery’s official website (www.abbaye-senanque.fr), especially during peak season.
Roussillon – The Red Village
Next, drive 20 minutes to Roussillon, a village famous for its vibrant red and orange buildings, which get their color from the local ochre deposits. Ochre, a natural clay pigment, has been mined here since Roman times, and the village’s streets, houses, and even the soil are tinted with shades of rust, terracotta, and gold. The main attraction is the Sentier des Ocres (Ochre Trail), a 2.5-kilometer hiking path that winds through former ochre quarries. The trail offers otherworldly landscapes—hills of red and yellow clay, dried-up riverbeds, and views of the village from above. The hike takes approximately 1.5 hours and is suitable for all fitness levels. At the start of the trail, the Musée de l’Ocre (Ochre Museum) explains the history of ochre mining and its use in art and industry (entry €6).
Dining
For lunch, stop at Le Bistrot de Roussillon, a charming restaurant with a terrace overlooking the village and the surrounding countryside. The menu features traditional Provençal dishes with a modern twist. Try the salade de chèvre chaud (warm goat cheese salad) with local greens and a honey-oat dressing, or the cassoulet provençal, a hearty stew of white beans, sausage, and duck confit. For dessert, the tarte Tatin (upside-down apple tart) with vanilla ice cream is a popular choice.
Return to Avignon
Begin the drive back to Avignon in the late afternoon, allowing approximately 1.5 hours. The route takes you through the Luberon Valley, offering one last chance to admire the rolling hills and villages as the sun sets.
Practical Tips
- Parking in Gordes and Roussillon is limited. In Gordes, use the public parking lot at the entrance to the village (free for 2 hours, €3 for the full day) and walk uphill to the center. In Roussillon, park at the Sentier des Ocres parking lot (€4 per day), which is close to the trailhead and village center.
- The Luberon Valley can get hot in summer—bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water, especially for the Sentier des Ocres hike.
- Many boutiques in Gordes and Roussillon sell handcrafted Provençal products, such as lavender sachets, olive oil, and ochre-based pottery—perfect souvenirs.
Day 3: Arles & Les Baux-de-Provence – Van Gogh’s Inspiration and Medieval Grandeur
Today’s itinerary combines art, history, and natural beauty, taking you to two iconic towns in the Alpilles region: Arles, forever linked to Vincent van Gogh, and Les Baux-de-Provence, a medieval hilltop fortress town.
Transportation
From Avignon, driving to Arles takes approximately 40 minutes via the A9 motorway. The drive is straightforward, with clear signage, and the route passes through flat farmland dotted with sunflowers (in July and August). For non-drivers, GetYourGuide offers a combined Arles and Les Baux day tour (€110 per person) with pickup from Avignon.
Attractions (Morning: Arles)
Arles – A Living Museum of Art and History
Arles has inspired artists for centuries, but none are more closely associated with the town than Vincent van Gogh, who lived here from 1888 to 1889 and painted over 300 works during his stay. Start your visit at the Fondation Vincent van Gogh Arles, a museum dedicated to the artist’s time in Provence. The museum features rotating exhibitions of works by van Gogh and contemporary artists influenced by him, as well as a recreation of his Arles studio (entry €12).
Next, follow the “Van Gogh Trail,” a self-guided walking tour that takes you to locations depicted in his paintings. Highlights include:
- Café Terrace at Night: The actual café (now called Café Van Gogh) on Place du Forum, which van Gogh painted in 1888. The café’s yellow facade and outdoor seating match the scene in the painting.
- The Yellow House: The site where van Gogh lived and worked (the original house was destroyed in World War II, but a plaque marks the spot).
- Les Alyscamps: An ancient Roman necropolis where van Gogh painted Les Alyscamps and The Funeral of St. Lazarus. The tree-lined avenue of stone sarcophagi is still as evocative as it was in van Gogh’s time.
Beyond van Gogh, Arles is a treasure trove of Roman ruins. The Arles Amphitheatre, built in the 1st century AD, could seat 20,000 spectators and hosted gladiatorial games. Today, it is still used for bullfights (in summer) and concerts. Climb to the top tier for panoramic views of Arles (entry €9). Nearby, the Roman Theatre (1st century BC) features well-preserved stone seating and a stage wall, and the Cryptoporticus, an underground gallery built to support the Roman forum, offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient engineering (entry €6 for the theatre and cryptoporticus combined).
Dining (Lunch in Arles)
For lunch, head to Place du Forum, the heart of Arles’ old town. The square is surrounded by outdoor cafés, and many serve paella, a nod to Arles’ proximity to the Spanish border (the town is just 30 kilometers from the Camargue region, which has strong Catalan influences). Le Café de la Fontaine is a popular spot—their seafood paella is made with fresh shrimp, mussels, and squid, cooked with saffron and rice, and served with a side of aioli (garlic mayonnaise). For a lighter option, try the pan bagnat, a Provençal sandwich of tuna, olive oil, tomatoes, onions, and anchovies, served on crusty bread.
Attractions (Afternoon: Les Baux-de-Provence)
A 30-minute drive from Arles brings you to Les Baux-de-Provence, a medieval village perched on a rocky outcrop in the Alpilles Mountains. Known as the “Eagle’s Nest” for its commanding position, the village was once a powerful feudal stronghold.
The main attraction is the Château des Baux, the ruins of a 10th-century castle that controlled the region for centuries. The castle’s walls, towers, and ramparts offer sweeping views of the Alpilles and the surrounding plains. Guided tours (€11) explain the castle’s history, including its role in the Hundred Years’ War and its eventual abandonment in the 17th century. For families, the castle also hosts medieval-themed activities, such as archery demonstrations, in summer.
After exploring the castle, wander the village’s narrow streets, lined with stone houses, art galleries, and boutiques selling Provençal crafts. A highlight is the Carrières de Lumières, a unique digital art exhibition held in a former ochre quarry. The quarry’s vast, cathedral-like spaces are transformed by projections of famous artworks—past exhibitions have featured van Gogh, Monet, and Picasso—accompanied by classical music. The experience is immersive and magical, especially as the light fades (entry €14, advance booking recommended via www.carrieres-lumieres.com).
Return to Avignon
Drive back to Avignon in the early evening, a journey of approximately 30 minutes.
Practical Tips
- Book tickets for the Arles Amphitheatre and Carrières de Lumières online in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak season.
- Les Baux-de-Provence is a pedestrian-only village—park in the public parking lot at the entrance (€5 per day) and walk uphill to the center.
- Arles hosts a famous photography festival (Rencontres d’Arles) every July—if you’re visiting during this time, book accommodation and tickets well in advance.
Day 4: Valensole Plateau – Lavender Bliss and Lake Adventures
The Valensole Plateau is the epicenter of Provence’s lavender industry, home to vast fields of purple lavender that bloom from mid-June to mid-July. Today’s itinerary is dedicated to exploring these iconic fields and the nearby Saint-Croix Lake.
Transportation
From Avignon, driving to Valensole takes approximately 1.5 hours via the A51 and D8 roads. The drive is scenic, passing through small towns and countryside. If self-driving, note that the D6 and D8 roads (the main routes through the plateau) are narrow in parts but well-maintained. For non-drivers, lavender day tours from Avignon (€130 per person) include stops at key lavender fields and Saint-Croix Lake.
Attractions (Morning: Lavender Fields)
The Valensole Plateau is dotted with lavender fields, but the most picturesque are along the D6 and D8 roads. Here are the top spots to visit:
Lavandes Angelvin
A family-owned lavender farm that has been growing lavender for four generations, Lavandes Angelvin offers guided tours (€8) of their fields and distillery. You’ll learn about the lavender harvest (which takes place in early July), the distillation process for lavender oil, and the various uses of lavender (in cosmetics, aromatherapy, and cooking). After the tour, visit the on-site shop to purchase lavender oil, soaps, honey, and dried lavender bunches. The farm’s fields are also one of the best places to take photos, with rows of lavender stretching to the horizon.
Lavender Museum (Musée de la Lavande)
Located in the town of Valensole, the Lavender Museum is a small but informative museum dedicated to the history and cultivation of lavender in Provence. Exhibits include antique distillation equipment, old photographs of harvests, and displays on the different varieties of lavender grown in the region (the most common is Lavandula angustifolia, or true lavender). The museum also has a garden with various lavender species, allowing visitors to compare their scents and appearances (entry €5).
Scenic Drives and Photo Spots
For the best lavender views, drive the loop from Valensole along the D6 to the village of Saint-Julien-de-Peyrolas, then back along the D8. Along the way, you’ll pass countless fields—look for those with a backdrop of the Alps or a stone farmhouse, which make for stunning photos. The best time to take photos is early morning (6:00–8:00 AM) or late afternoon (5:00–7:00 PM), when the light is soft and the crowds are smaller. Important: All lavender fields are private property—never step into the fields, and always ask permission before taking photos if there is a “private property” sign.
Dining (Lunch in Valensole)
The town of Valensole has several casual restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy a light lunch. A unique local treat is lavender ice cream—creamy, sweet, and infused with real lavender. La Glacière de Valensole, a small ice cream shop in the town center, offers lavender ice cream as well as other Provençal flavors like honey and olive oil (€3 per scoop). For a more substantial meal, try Le Relais de Valensole, a family-run restaurant that serves tapenade (olive spread) with bread, salade niçoise, and roti de lapin (roast rabbit) with lavender honey sauce.
Attractions (Afternoon: Saint-Croix Lake)
A 20-minute drive from Valensole brings you to Lac de Sainte-Croix (Saint-Croix Lake), a stunning turquoise lake formed by the damming of the Verdon River in the 1970s. The lake is surrounded by steep cliffs and pine forests, making it a popular spot for water sports and relaxation.
The most popular activity is renting a kayak or paddleboard (€20 for 2 hours, €35 for a full day) to explore the lake’s coves and inlets. For a more leisurely experience, take a boat tour (€15 per person, 1 hour) that departs from the village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon. The tour offers views of the lake’s most scenic spots, including the “Gorges du Verdon” entrance and the village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie in the distance. If you prefer to stay on land, there are several hiking trails along the lake’s shore, such as the Sentier du Lac, a 5-kilometer trail that offers panoramic views.
Accommodation (Valensole or Manosque)
Tonight, you’ll stay in Valensole or Manosque (a larger town 15 minutes from Valensole) to be closer to tomorrow’s Verdon Gorge adventure. In Valensole, La Bastide de Moustiers is a charming bed and breakfast housed in a 19th-century stone building. It has just 5 rooms, each decorated with Provençal fabrics and antiques, and a garden with a swimming pool. The hosts serve a homemade breakfast of croissants, jam, honey, and fresh fruit. In Manosque, Hôtel Le Provençal is a mid-range option with modern rooms, a restaurant, and a terrace. It’s located in the town center, close to shops and cafés.
Practical Tips
- Book accommodation in Valensole at least 3 months in advance for the lavender season—rooms fill up quickly.
- Saint-Croix Lake gets busy in summer—arrive before 2:00 PM to rent a kayak or get a spot on the beach.
- Bring a swimsuit and towel if you plan to swim in the lake (the water is refreshing but cool, even in summer).
Day 5: Verdon Gorge – Europe’s Grand Canyon
The Verdon Gorge, often called “Europe’s Grand Canyon,” is a 25-kilometer-long canyon carved by the Verdon River. With its turquoise waters, steep limestone cliffs, and panoramic viewpoints, it is one of Provence’s most breathtaking natural attractions.
Transportation
From Valensole, driving to the Verdon Gorge takes approximately 40 minutes via the D71 and D952 roads. The drive itself is scenic, passing through pine forests and small mountain villages. If self-driving, note that some roads in the gorge are narrow and winding—take your time and pull over to let oncoming traffic pass when necessary.
Attractions (Morning: Viewpoints and Scenic Drives)
Point Sublime
The most famous viewpoint in the Verdon Gorge, Point Sublime offers a sweeping panoramic view of the canyon’s most dramatic bend. From here, you can see the Verdon River winding through the valley below, surrounded by cliffs that rise 700 meters above the water. There is a large parking lot (€3 per day) and a wooden viewing platform that is accessible to all. Bring a camera—this is one of the most photographed spots in Provence.
Corniche Sublime Road
The Corniche Sublime is a 30-kilometer scenic road that runs along the north side of the gorge, connecting the villages of La Palud-sur-Verdon and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. The road is carved into the cliffside and offers numerous viewpoints, including:
- Point de l’Esclaouère: A viewpoint with views of the 峡谷’s narrowest section.
- Belvedère de la Mescla: Where the Verdon River meets the Artuby River, creating a contrast between the turquoise Verdon and the darker Artuby.
- Balcon de la Mescla: A wooden walkway that extends over the cliff, offering a thrilling view of the river below.
Stop frequently along the way to take photos and soak in the views. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours without stops, but plan to spend at least 3 hours exploring the viewpoints.
Dining (Lunch in La Palud-sur-Verdon)
For lunch, stop in the village of La Palud-sur-Verdon, a charming mountain village located at the western end of the Corniche Sublime. Le Café de la Gorge is a cozy spot with outdoor seating and views of the canyon. Try the tartiflette, a hearty French dish made with potatoes, reblochon cheese, bacon, and onions, or the salade de chevreuil (venison salad) with local greens. For dessert, the crème brûlée with lavender is a local twist on the classic.
Attractions (Afternoon: Water Activities)
After lunch, head back to Saint-Croix Lake (20 minutes from La Palud-sur-Verdon) for more water activities. If you didn’t rent a kayak yesterday, today is your chance—exploring the lake’s eastern shore, which borders the Verdon Gorge, offers views of the cliffs from the water. For a more adventurous option, rent an electric boat (€80 for 4 hours, capacity 4 people) to explore the lake at your own pace. Electric boats are easy to operate and don’t require a license.
Alternatively, visit the village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a picturesque village located at the eastern end of the gorge. The village is famous for its pottery (it has been a center of ceramic production since the 17th century) and its twin churches perched on a cliff. A 250-step staircase leads up to the churches, offering views of the village below. Wander the village’s streets to browse pottery shops, or visit the Musée de la Faïence (Pottery Museum) to learn about the history of Moustiers pottery (entry €6).
Dining (Dinner in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie)
For a special dinner, book a table at La Bastide de Moustiers, a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the heart of the village. The restaurant serves creative Provençal cuisine using local ingredients, such as langoustines from the Mediterranean, lamb from the Alpilles, and wild mushrooms from the Verdon forests. The tasting menu (€120) includes dishes like “Lavender-infused Rack of Lamb with Olive Tapenade” and “Saint-Croix Lake Fish with Saffron Risotto.” For a more casual option, Le Trident serves fresh seafood and Provençal classics, with a terrace overlooking the village.
Accommodation
Stay another night in Valensole or Manosque to avoid driving back to Avignon in the dark. If you’re in Manosque, Hôtel Le Provençal is a reliable choice, while in Valensole, La Bastide de Moustiers offers a peaceful retreat.
Practical Tips
- The Verdon Gorge is popular with cyclists—be cautious when driving, especially on the Corniche Sublime Road.
- Bring binoculars to spot wildlife, such as eagles and ibex, which live in the gorge.
- Some viewpoints are not wheelchair-accessible—check the Verdon Gorge tourist website (www.verdon-gorge.com) for accessibility information.
Day 6: Aix-en-Provence – The City of Fountains and Cézanne
Aix-en-Provence, often called the “City of Fountains,” is a sophisticated university town with a rich artistic heritage. It was the birthplace of the painter Paul Cézanne, and its tree-lined avenues, historic cafés, and vibrant markets make it a must-visit in Provence.
Transportation
From Valensole, driving to Aix-en-Provence takes approximately 1 hour via the A51 motorway. The drive passes through the Durance Valley, offering views of vineyards and small towns. For non-drivers, there are direct buses from Manosque to Aix-en-Provence (€15 one-way, 1.5 hours) operated by Transdev.
Attractions (Morning: Aix Old Town)
Cours Mirabeau
Aix’s most famous street, Cours Mirabeau, is a 1.5-kilometer-long avenue lined with plane trees, fountains, and 17th- and 18th-century mansions. It is the heart of Aix’s social life, with cafés, boutiques, and bookstores lining both sides. Start your visit at the Mazarin Quarter, the historic center of Aix, and walk along Cours Mirabeau to the Rotonde, a large roundabout with a fountain. Along the way, stop at the Fontaine de la Rotonde (the largest fountain on the avenue), decorated with statues of four nymphs representing the seasons.
Atelier Cézanne (Cézanne’s Studio)
A 15-minute walk from Cours Mirabeau is the Atelier Cézanne, the former studio of Paul Cézanne. Cézanne worked here from 1901 until his death in 1906, and the studio has been preserved exactly as he left it. Inside, you’ll find his paintbrushes, palettes, easels, and unfinished canvases, as well as the views of Mont Sainte-Victoire that inspired many of his works. The studio is surrounded by a garden with olive trees and a view of Mont Sainte-Victoire (entry €8). Audio guides are available for €3 and provide insight into Cézanne’s creative process.
Saint-Sauveur Cathedral
Located in the Mazarin Quarter, Saint-Sauveur Cathedral is a mix of architectural styles, from Romanesque (12th century) to Gothic (14th century) to Baroque (17th century). The cathedral’s highlight is its Romanesque cloister, with carved capitals depicting biblical scenes. Inside, the choir features 17th-century paintings, and the crypt houses the remains of Aix’s patron saint, Saint Mitre (entry €5).
Dining (Lunch at Les Deux Garçons)
No visit to Aix-en-Provence is complete without a meal at Les Deux Garçons, one of France’s most famous cafés. Founded in 1792, the café has hosted artists and writers such as Cézanne, Zola, and Picasso. The interior is elegant, with marble tables, crystal chandeliers, and frescoes on the ceiling. For lunch, try the plat du jour (daily special), which often includes Provençal dishes like bouillabaisse or ratatouille. Pair your meal with a café crème (espresso with cream) or a pastis, an anise-flavored aperitif popular in Provence.
Attractions (Afternoon: Markets and Shopping)
Place Richelme Market
Aix’s daily market (except Mondays) takes place on Place Richelme, a lively square in the old town. The market features over 50 stalls selling fresh produce (tomatoes, zucchini, figs, and peaches in summer), local cheeses (like brousse du Rove, a soft goat cheese), olive oil, lavender products, and handcrafted soaps. It’s the perfect place to sample local flavors and pick up souvenirs. Arrive early (before 11:00 AM) to avoid the crowds and get the best selection.
Shopping in Aix
After the market, wander the streets of the Mazarin Quarter to browse boutiques and art galleries. Rue Cardinale and Rue d’Italie are lined with high-end fashion stores, while Rue de la Verrerie and Rue des Trois Ormeaux offer handcrafted Provençal products, such as pottery, lavender sachets, and olive wood utensils. For book lovers, Le Consulat is a historic bookstore housed in a 17th-century mansion, with a large selection of French and English books.
Return to Avignon
Drive back to Avignon in the late afternoon, a journey of approximately 1 hour via the A7 motorway.
Accommodation
Stay in Avignon for your final night. IBIS Styles Avignon Centre Gare or Hôtel de l’Europe are good options, as they are close to the train station and city center.
Practical Tips
- Aix-en-Provence is a walking city—wear comfortable shoes.
- The market on Place Richelme is cash-only, so bring euros.
- If you’re interested in Cézanne, consider taking a guided tour of the Atelier Cézanne (€15 per person) to learn more about his life and work.
Day 7: Avignon Surroundings – Wine Tasting and Souvenir Shopping
On your final day, take a relaxed approach to explore Avignon’s surroundings, with options for wine tasting or souvenir shopping before your departure.
Option 1: Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wine Tasting
Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a small village 15 minutes from Avignon, is famous for its world-class red wines. The village’s vineyards produce wine using 13 different grape varieties, and many wineries (called châteaux) offer tastings and tours.
Recommended Wineries
- Château de Beaucastel: One of the most prestigious wineries in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, known for its organic and biodynamic wines. Tours (€30 per person) include a visit to the vineyards and cellars, followed by a tasting of three wines.
- Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe: A family-owned winery with a history dating back to 1892. Tours (€25 per person) focus on the winery’s traditional winemaking methods, and tastings include their flagship red wine, which is aged in oak barrels.
Note: Most wineries require advance booking for tours—contact them via their websites at least 24 hours in advance.
Option 2: Souvenir Shopping in Avignon
If wine tasting isn’t your style, spend the morning shopping for souvenirs in Avignon.
Les Halles d’Avignon
Les Halles d’Avignon is a covered market located in the city center, with over 30 stalls selling local products. Here, you can buy olive oil (look for oils from the Luberon Valley), lavender honey, Provençal spices (herbs de Provence), and fresh pastries (like calissons d’Aix, a sweet made with almond paste and candied fruit). The market is open from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM (closed Mondays).
Rue de la République
Rue de la République is Avignon’s main shopping street, lined with both chain stores and independent boutiques. Here, you’ll find everything from fashion to home decor, as well as souvenir shops selling Provençal-themed items, such as lavender sachets, pottery, and postcards.
Dining (Lunch in Avignon)
For your final Provençal meal, return to Place de l’Horloge or try a new spot. Le Bistro du Palais, located near the Palais des Papes, serves traditional Provençal dishes like ratatouille and cassoulet, as well as a selection of local wines. For a quick bite, grab a pan bagnat from a local bakery like Boulangerie du Marché.
Departure
Depending on your flight or train time, head to the airport or train station. If returning a rental car, allow at least 30 minutes to drop off the car and complete paperwork. Avignon TGV Station is centrally located, while Marseille Provence Airport is a 30-minute train ride away.
Practical Tips
- If wine tasting, designate a driver or take a taxi from Avignon to Châteauneuf-du-Pape (€20 one-way).
- Pack souvenirs like olive oil and wine in your checked luggage (if flying) to avoid airport security issues.
- Arrive at the train station or airport at least 1 hour before your departure time.
Practical Information for Provence Travel
Transportation
- Self-Driving: Rent a car from companies like Sixt or Europcar, which have offices at Avignon TGV Station and Marseille Airport. You’ll need a valid driver’s license (international license if your license is not in French), passport, and credit card. Insurance is recommended—basic insurance is included, but consider upgrading to full coverage for peace of mind.
- Public Transportation: Buses and trains connect major towns, but service is limited in rural areas. Transdev operates buses between Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and other towns, while SNCF operates trains from Avignon to Marseille, Lyon, and Paris.
- Tours: Local tour operators like GetYourGuide and Provence Local Tour offer day trips to key attractions, which are ideal for non-drivers.
Accommodation
- Avignon: Choose hotels within the old town walls for easy access to attractions. Book 2–3 months in advance for peak season.
- Valensole/Manosque: Book 3–4 months in advance for lavender season. B&Bs and guesthouses offer a more authentic experience than hotels.
- Aix-en-Provence: Stay in the Mazarin Quarter for proximity to Cours Mirabeau and the old town.
Dining
- Must-Try Dishes: Ratatouille, bouillabaisse, cassoulet, salade de chèvre chaud, pan bagnat.
- Must-Try Drinks: Pastis (aperitif), Provençal rosé wine, lavender honey mead.
- Etiquette: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated—leave 5–10% for good service. Most restaurants accept credit cards, but small cafés and markets may be cash-only.
Safety and Comfort
- Sun Protection: Summer temperatures can reach 35°C (95°F)—wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen (SPF 30+), and drink plenty of water.
- Language: French is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. In rural villages, however, English proficiency is limited—bring a translation app (like Google Translate) and learn basic phrases (e.g., bonjour = hello, merci = thank you, s’il vous plaît = please).
- Cash: Carry euros, as small businesses and markets may not accept credit cards. ATMs are widely available in towns.
Booking Tips
- Book accommodation, popular restaurants (like La Bastide de Moustiers), and attractions (like the Carrières de Lumières) in advance, especially during peak season (June–August).
- Purchase tickets for the Palais des Papes and Arles Amphitheatre online to avoid queues.
Provence is a region that captivates with its natural beauty, rich history, and delicious cuisine. This itinerary offers a perfect blend of iconic sights and hidden gems, ensuring you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of sun, lavender, and Provençal charm. Bon voyage!
