Provence: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!
The Provence in southern France stands for the vibrant colors of the lavender fields, picturesque cultural landscapes, and quaint historic towns. In addition to wild mountain landscapes and rustic villages on impressive mountain ranges, the legendary Côte d'Azur with its dreamy Mediterranean beaches and famous cities like Nice or Marseille is, of course, also among the highlights of the region.
Table of contents
Provence - The most beautiful cities
Aix-en-Provence
Start your city tour of Aix-en-Provence on the famous Cours Mirabeau. The grand avenue connects the old town with the Mazarin district. The Café Les Deux Garçons was once a meeting place for numerous artists and writers. In the Mazarin district, visit the Place des Quatre Dauphins with its famous dolphin fountain. A highlight of the old town is the Saint-Sauveur Cathedral. Nearby is the Atelier Cézanne, where the master pursued his work. Those who want to get some fresh air can take a hike on the Montagne Saint-Victoire. The limestone mountain range is located at the gates of the city and offers magnificent panoramas.
Avignon
In the middle of the old town lies the magnificent Gothic Papal Palace with the adjacent bishop's complex and the Cathedral of Notre-Dame des Doms. The entire medieval city center is still surrounded by the mighty city wall. Together with the ruins of the Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge from the famous folk song, the testimonies of the former papal city are part of the UNESCO World Heritage. In addition to the impressive buildings, a visit to the Rocher des Doms, a rocky outcrop on the banks of the Rhone that was settled before prehistoric times, is worthwhile. From here, you have a great view over the city. For relaxation, a small tour with the sightseeing train that runs through the city is suitable.
Orange
The ancient heritage of the Romans has been particularly well-preserved in Orange. Roman architecture accompanies you at every turn in the small Provençal town. Stroll through the narrow streets or along the banks of the Rhône and visit the famous buildings. The Saint-Eutrope is also worth a visit. It rises 105 meters high in the middle of the city and invites locals and visitors alike to enjoy the remarkable panorama. Historical highlights, such as the theater, the triumphal arch, and the Notre-Dame-de-Nazareth Cathedral, are a must-see. On Thursdays, you can find handcrafted products and the typical Provençal atmosphere at the regional market.
Gordes
Located on hills and surrounded by the typical lavender fields of Provence, the place mainly impresses with its surroundings. Also worth seeing is the Château de Gordes, a castle from the 11th century with its imposing defensive towers and the Penitents' Chapel. Notre-Dame de Sénanque, a Cistercian monastery, is also worth a visit. Hiking and cycling enthusiasts have a well-developed network of trails in the Luberon Nature Park. A route about 25 kilometers long runs along the Mur de la Peste, the Plague Wall, and crosses the Monts-de-Vaucluse. The Village des Bories near Gordes is home to several dry stone huts that were once used as shelters.
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
The charming surroundings of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence already inspired the great artist Vincent van Gogh, who recuperated in a sanatorium housed in today's Monastery St. Paul de Mausole. The famous work Starry Night was created here. The astrologer and pharmacist Nostradamus hails from the town. If you want to learn interesting facts about the history of the town, plan a visit to Glanum. These are the remarkable remains of a Roman city. Also worth seeing is the Musée des Alpilles, housed in a romantic Renaissance palace from the 15th century.
Roussillon
Only about 1,300 inhabitants live in Roussillon, which looks back on a centuries-old past. The town hall and the Romanesque parish church of St-Michel are reminders of past eras. In the village center, you will find some romantic cafés as well as the old bell tower and a color factory that has been in operation since the 19th century. Typical for the region is the ocher-rich soil, which has been mined around Roussillon since ancient times. You can learn more about it on the ocher trail at the edge of the village. On a clear day, you can see Mont Ventoux. The hilly landscape of the southern Alps is a paradise for hikers and cyclists.
Les Baux de Provence
In good weather, you have a view all the way to the Camargue. Culture enthusiasts are in the right place here. Visit the Church of Saint-Vincent with its side aisle integrated into the rock, and explore the Château, which was considered a stronghold of courtly love. Wellness enthusiasts will not miss out with Spa Baumanière. Experience the joys of saunas, hammams, and Turkish baths on your journey. Explore authentic France on a rock hike or a bike tour. An unforgettable nature experience awaits you on the ridge hike from St. Rémy to Baux-de-Provence. A visit to a winery or an oil mill is also recommended in Provence.
Tarascon
Stroll through the center of the town with 15,000 inhabitants and take a look at the Collegiate Church of Sainte-Marthe, considered the heart of Tarascon. After a short walk, you will reach Tarascon Castle, which was built as early as 1435. Even older is the Chapel of St. Gabriel from the 12th century. The banks of the Rhone invite you to take extensive bike tours, where you can explore the south of France on your own. Especially the city of Arles in the south is a popular destination for a day trip. By car, excursions to Avignon or Nîmes inland are recommended.
Provence - 4 most beautiful natural sights
Verdon Gorge
The Verdon Gorge, also known as the Grand Canyon of Europe, is a breathtaking natural wonder in the Provence region of France. This spectacular canyon, shaped by the turquoise Verdon River, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here you can go kayaking, hiking, climbing, or simply admire the majestic beauty of the steep limestone walls and the lush green landscape. The Verdon Gorge is not only a place of exceptional natural beauty but also a place that fills the heart with awe and admiration. A visit here is an unforgettable experience that immerses you in the wonders of nature.
Calanques National Park
The Calanques National Park in Provence is a breathtaking natural wonder. This unique area, characterized by deep gorges, crystal-clear water, and lush vegetation, offers a spectacular landscape that will leave you speechless. The rugged limestone cliffs, which drop steeply into the sea, create a dramatic backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, climbing, and diving. The pristine beauty of this park attracts nature lovers from all over the world. Let yourself be enchanted by the wild and untouched beauty of the Calanques National Park and experience an unforgettable adventure amidst nature.
Mount Ventoux
Mont Ventoux, the jewel of Provence, is a breathtaking natural wonder. With its height of 1912 meters, it dominates the surrounding landscape and offers an unparalleled panoramic view. Its barren, moon-like peak, often whipped by strong winds, stands in stark contrast to the lush forests and vineyards at the mountain's base. Mont Ventoux is not only a paradise for hikers and cyclists but also a place of tranquility and reflection. Its untouched beauty and unique atmosphere attract thousands of visitors every year. Let yourself be enchanted by the magic of this place and experience Provence at its finest.
Camargue Nature Park
Discover the Camargue Nature Park in Provence. This unique biosphere reserve is a paradise for nature lovers. With its breathtaking landscape populated by wild horses, pink flamingos, and black bulls, the park offers an unparalleled diversity of flora and fauna. The salty marshes, vast rice fields, and picturesque lighthouses are just some of the sights that await you here. Let yourself be enchanted by the untouched beauty of the Camargue and experience the fascination of this unique natural paradise. Take a hike, a bike ride, or a boat trip and let yourself be seduced by the magic of the Camargue.
Provence - Climate
The climate of Provence is mostly Mediterranean, offering hot summers and mild winters. Depending on the type of vacation, the region can ideally be visited from March to the end of November. In April, average temperatures are already around 20 degrees, and in October, still about 22 degrees. For hiking and enjoying the breathtaking nature, the blossoming spring or the wilting autumn with its impressive display of colors are therefore ideal. In summer, there is a dry heat of around 30 degrees, which is pleasant thanks to a light breeze and invites you to enjoy great swimming and beach days.
The following graph shows the average weather conditions for the country. Historical weather conditions may vary by region.