Provence – Lavender Hills and the Mediterranean Sea
Provence in the south of France is more than just a region; it’s a state of mind. Think sun-drenched vineyards, lavender fields, olive groves, ancient Roman ruins, and shimmering Mediterranean beaches. And not to forget Vin Rosé. It’s a place where history, food, and lifestyle merge into an unforgettable travel experience.
In this guide, we’ll take you across Provence — from inland villages and mountain landscapes to the vibrant coastline stretching east to Marseille — with tips on what to see and do, the best beaches, food and wine, hotels, and how to get there.
What and Where is Provence?
Provence sits in southeastern France, stretching from the Rhône River in the west to the Italian border in the east, and from the foothills of the Alps down to the Mediterranean Sea. Its capital of sorts is Marseille, France’s oldest city, but the region also includes Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, Arles, Cassis, and the world-famous French Riviera towns.
The name Provence comes from Provincia Romana, the first Roman province beyond the Alps, and traces of that heritage are everywhere: Roman theaters, aqueducts, and amphitheaters still dominate some towns. But Provence is also about artistic heritage: Van Gogh painted in Arles, Cézanne worked in Aix-en-Provence, and countless Impressionists captured the light of its skies.
The Landscapes of Provence – Inland to Coast
The Inland Charm
Head inland, and you’ll discover the Luberon hills, with storybook villages like Gordes, Roussillon, and Bonnieux. This is the Provence of stone houses, markets, lavender fields, and quiet vineyards.
Further north, Mont Ventoux, nicknamed the “Giant of Provence,” is a cycling pilgrimage thanks to the Tour de France.
The Eastern Wilds
In the east lies the dramatic Gorges du Verdon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Europe.” Turquoise rivers run through limestone cliffs, perfect for kayaking, hiking, and photography.
Western Provence
The west features Avignon, home to the Popes in the Middle Ages, and Arles, with its UNESCO-listed Roman amphitheater and Van Gogh connections.
Provence in the south of France is synonymous with the Riviera
Finally, the southern edge of Provence gives way to the Mediterranean. From Cassis and Bandol to Toulon and Hyères, and on to Marseille, you’ll find fishing villages, glamorous resorts, and the dramatic Calanques National Park, where limestone cliffs plunge into the sea.
What to See and Do in Provence
Towns and Villages
Aix-en-Provence – elegant fountains, Cézanne’s studio, lively markets.
Avignon – the Palais des Papes and the famous bridge (Pont d’Avignon).
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence – Roman ruins and Van Gogh’s hospital.
Cassis – a pretty fishing town, gateway to the Calanques.
Arles – Roman amphitheater and Van Gogh’s legacy.
Nature & Outdoors
Lavender fields: Best in June–July, especially around Valensole Plateau and Sénanque Abbey.
Vineyards: From Châteauneuf-du-Pape to Bandol, wine is everywhere.
Verdon Gorge: Kayaking, hiking, and paragliding.
Calanques National Park: Stunning hikes and boat trips.
Cycling Mont Ventoux: For the truly adventurous.
Art & Culture
Roman amphitheaters in Arles and Orange.
Festivals: Festival d’Avignon (theater, July), Fête de la Lavande (lavender, July), Nice Carnival (Feb).
Art trails: Cézanne’s Aix, Van Gogh’s Arles.
Best Beaches in Provence
While much of Provence in Southern France has a coastline, that is rocky and dramatic, it also boasts some of France’s finest beaches:
Calanques near Marseille & Cassis – Hidden turquoise coves reached by boat or hiking trails.
Plage de Pampelonne (Saint-Tropez) – Chic, glamorous, with beach clubs.
Plage de l’Almanarre (Hyères) – Famous for windsurfing and kite-surfing.
Bandol & Sanary-sur-Mer – Family-friendly sandy beaches.
Food & Wine in Provence
Food is at the heart of Provence. Expect fresh Mediterranean ingredients, herbs, olive oil, and seafood.
Must-Try Dishes
Bouillabaisse – Marseille’s iconic fish stew.
Ratatouille – A vegetable classic from Nice.
Tapenade – Olive-based spread, perfect with bread and rosé.
Aioli – Garlic mayonnaise served with fish and vegetables.
Daube Provençale – A hearty beef stew with red wine and herbs.
Bouillabaisse from Provence. Rich seafood and shellfish stew in a traditional ceramic dish, garnished with fresh herbs on rustic wooden table.
Wine & Gastronomy
Provence is the birthplace of rosé wine. Vineyards like Côtes de Provence, Bandol, and Coteaux d’Aix produce some of the world’s best. Don’t miss the full-bodied reds of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Bandol.
For a deeper dive into Provence wine and gastronomy, explore our partner site: Winetalk.dk – Provence Wine & Food
Market Culture
Every town has a market day:
Aix-en-Provence – elegant food stalls.
L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue – antiques and food.
Saint-Rémy – local produce and Provençal crafts.
Hotels & Where to Stay in Provence
Luxury: Château de Berne (wine resort), Les Roches Blanches in Cassis with sea views.
Boutique: Auberge de Cassagne near Avignon, charming farmhouses in Luberon.
Budget & Family: Ibis Styles in Marseille, village guesthouses, and Airbnbs in stone houses.
Tip: For the true Provençal experience, stay in a mas (farmhouse) or wine estate.
Colombe d´Or, famous and charming hotel and restaurant in Vence, close to Nice, few km to the beach
How to Get to Provence
Airports
Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) – main gateway, with flights across Europe and connections from major hubs.
Nice Côte d’Azur (NCE) – ideal for the eastern Riviera.
Avignon TGV station – fast trains from Paris in under 3 hours.
Getting Around in Provence in the South of France
The best way to see Provence is by car rental. Distances are manageable:
Marseille–Avignon: 1 hr
Marseille–Nice: 2.5 hrs
Avignon–Luberon villages: 1 hr
Driving lets you explore hidden villages, vineyards, and scenic mountain roads.
When to Visit Provence in the South of France
Spring (Apr–May) – Wildflowers, warm days, fewer tourists.
Summer (Jun–Aug) – Lavender, beach life, festivals — but crowded.
Autumn (Sep–Oct) – Wine harvest, warm weather, fewer crowds.
Winter (Nov–Feb) – Quiet, but charming Christmas markets in Avignon and Aix.
Why Provence is Timeless
Whether you’re drawn by the lavender fields, the Mediterranean coastline, the vineyards, or the Roman ruins, Provence captures the essence of southern France. It’s a destination for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, culture seekers, and adventurers alike.
Travel inland for villages and lavender, or head south to the beaches and Marseille’s cosmopolitan flair — Provence offers it all, and it does so with style and soul.
Pair your trip inspiration with wine knowledge: read more about Provence food & rosé on Winetalk.dk.
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