Choose from 69 Fun Things to Do in Provence
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MuCEM
The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (MuCEM; Musée des Civilisations de l'Europe et de la Méditerranée) is a national museum in Marseille, France. It was inaugurated in 2013, the same year Marseille was designated as the ‘European Capital of Culture,’ and is dedicated to showcasing the multifaceted history of the Mediterranean and its different landscapes, cities, and shores.
The museum is built on reclaimed land at the entrance to Marseille’s harbour. Its exhibits are devoted to European and Mediterranean civilizations in the Mediterranean basin, taking an interdisciplinary approach to presenting the different societies who have called this area home throughout the ages and in modern times. It is the first museum in the world to focus entirely on the cultures of the Mediterranean, and it includes all the social sciences: anthropology, political science, sociology, history, archaeology, and art history. In addition to MuCEM’s permanent collections, there are also rotating temporary exhibitions and seminars, feature films and documentaries, and performances focusing on the Mediterranean’s current affairs.
Practical Info
MuCEM is easily accessible by public transit or by car. By metro (and a 10-minute walk), you can take Line 1 (station Vieux-Port) or Line 2 (Station Joliette). By tramway (and a 10- to 15-minute walk), take tram T2 (stop: République/Dames or Joliette). Bus lines to the MuCEM: Lines 82/82s, 60, and 49. There is a 24-hour paid parking lot at Vieux-Port/Fort Saint-Jean, and Mobi Métropole offers a door-to-door transport service for people with disabilities.
Address: 7, Promenade Robert Laffont (Esplanade du J4), Marseille 13213, France
Hours: Every day except Tuesday from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. in summer and 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. in winter. Open Fridays in the summer until 10 p.m.
Admission: 8 €; Family ticket 12 € (valid for 2 adults and up to 5 children)
From $ 11
Lake of Sainte-Croix
Set between the dramatic landscapes of the Verdon Gorge and the Valensole plateau, the man-made Lake of Sainte-Croix is among Provence’s most popular vacation spots. With sandy lakeside beaches, water temperatures rivaling those of the Mediterranean Sea, and fewer crowds than the French Riviera, it’s the ideal summer destination.
The Basics
Whether hiking through France’s “Grand Canyon,” swimming in the lake, or just taking in the views, a visit to the Verdon Gorge (Gorges du Verdon) and Lake of Sainte-Croix (Lac de Sainte-Croix) is a popular inclusion on tours of Provence.
Private tours are the most convenient option, allowing ample photo stops along the way. Tours depart from Marseille, Nice, and Cannes along the French Riviera coast, and Provencal towns including Aix-en-Provence and Avignon. On the way to the lake, take in highlights of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region, from magnificent lavender fields to the medieval villages of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and Valensole.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The three villages around the lake—Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, Bauduen, and Les Salles-sur-Verdon—all offer various accommodation and dining options.
- Summer temperatures regularly reach 80°F (27°C), so be sure to bring sun protection.
- Booking tours and accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially during the peak summer season.
How to Get There
Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon is the main entry point to the lake, located 58 miles (94 kilometers) northeast of Aix-en-Provence, or about a 1.5-hour drive. There is little public transport in the area, so it’s best to drive your own car or participate in a guided tour. The closest international airport and cruise port are in Marseilles, less than a 2-hour drive away.
When to Get There
The most popular months to visit the lake are July and August. To avoid the crowds but still benefit from summer temperatures, opt to visit in June or September. For hiking the gorge, the cooler months of May and October can be ideal.
Outdoor Activities at Lake of Sainte-Croix
As France’s third-largest lake, the Lake of Sainte-Croix offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, sailing, and water sports. Motorboats and sailboats depart from the harbor at Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, while most of the lake’s beaches have pedal boats and kayaks for hire. Other popular activities include windsurfing on the lake, rafting or canoeing along the Verdon River, and canyoning in the gorges.
Address: Lake of Sainte-Croix, Aix en Provence, France
From $ 127
Espace Van Gogh
The Provençal town of Arles sits on the banks of the River Rhône southwest of Avignon and is placed firmly on the tourist trail for its UNESCO-listed Roman ruins, Romanesque cathedral, one of the biggest Saturday produce markets in France and for being the latter-day home of tortured artist Vincent Van Gogh. He arrived in Arles in February 1888 and fell in love with both the town and its rural environs, painting its historic center and spectacular landscapes repeatedly. Some of his most famous works were among the 180 he produced during this time, including Starry Night, several versions of The Sunflowers and The Café Terrace on the Place du Forum, Arles, at Night. Sadly this prolific period did not continue and he soon succumbed to mental illness; following a fracas with his fellow artist Paul Gauguin on Dec. 24, 1888, Van Gogh lopped off his ear and was hospitalized in the 16th-century Hôtel-Dieu-Saint-Espirit. By May 1889, he was recuperating in the Monastère St Paul-de-Mausole in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, before he eventually died in Auvers-sur-Oise in July 1890.
During his time at the Hôtel-Dieu-Saint-Espirit, Van Gogh painted its beautiful courtyard twice; it has now been restored to match the layout seen in his masterly Garden of the Hospital in Arles and is a place of quiet contemplation for visitors. Although there are no original Van Goghs displayed here, there are frequent art exhibitions in the cloisters and a souvenir shop selling his prints. The gardens form part of a Van Gogh-themed walking tour of Arles, which links all the places he made famous in his paintings.
Practical Info
Place du Docteur Félix Rey, Arles. Admission free at any time. Arles is 45 minutes’ drive southwest of Avignon.
Address: Place du Docteur Félix Rey, Arles, France
From $ 45
Musee de l'Arles et de la Provence Antique
UNESCO World Heritage-listed Arles is often called the ‘soul of Provence’, a photogenic city with a history stretching back 2,500 years and crammed with Roman remains; their extent indicate the importance of the city in Roman times – thanks to its position on the navigable River Rhône – and include an arena, theater and bath complexes. Arles fell from importance around 480 AD but by medieval times was once more a power to be reckoned with, as is proven by the city’s Romanesque masterpiece church of St-Trophime. The priceless collection of Roman artifacts discovered in the region are housed in the sleek, cobalt-blue triangular Museum of Antiquity, designed by Henri Ciriani and opened in 1995.
Among its treasures, the museum displays a large collection of antiquities, including monumental Roman sculptures, pagan and Christian art and several stunning mosaics. Center stage goes to the model of the water mills that operated in Roman times at Barbegal, thought to be the most complex in ancient times; and the 2,000-year-old barge Arles-Rhône 3, found in the River Rhône and accompanied by a video about its painstaking restoration.
Practical Info
Presqu'île-du-cirque-romain BP 205, Arles. Open Wed–Mon 10am–6pm. Admission adults €8; concessions €5; free for children under 18 and first Sunday of every month.
Address: Presqu'île du cirque romain BP 205, Arles 13635, France
Hours: Wed-Mon 10am-6pm
Admission: Adult €8, Student €5, 17 & Under Free
From $ 127
Palace of the Popes (Palais des Papes)
The largest Gothic palace in the world, Avignon’s Palace of the Popes (Palais des Papes) was home to the heads of the Roman Catholic Church in the 14th century. Visitors can tour the grand rooms, landscaped gardens, and secret passages used by members of the clergy, and see special exhibitions and concerts held at the palace.
The Basics
The seat of the Roman Catholic Church moved from Rome to Avignon in the South of France in 1305, under the orders of Pope Clement V. Some 30 years later, construction of a huge papal palace began under Pope Benedict XII, on the site of the former Bishop’s Palace. The enormous scale of the fortified building can only really be appreciated in person. The interiors were equally grand, decorated with rich tapestries, frescoes, and carved wooden ceilings.
In later years, the palace served as a military barracks for Napoleon’s army, a prison, and even used as stables. It was restored as a museum in 1906. Highlights of the construction include the 170-foot-long (52 meter) Grand Chapel, and the central courtyard, which now plays host to theater and music performances. The palace draws visitors from all over the world who come to see the palace, often as part of a guided tour. Tours often combine the museum with visits to the nearby Chateauneuf-du-Pape winery and Provence.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entry to the palace is via paid ticket.
- Children under 8 enter for free.
- An interactive Histopad guide device is included in the admission price.
- Prebook a guided tour to skip the entry line.
- The palace is not suitable for wheelchair users.
- Visitors can stop for a drink at the rooftop cafe.
How to Get There
The palace is located in central Avignon and is accessible on foot or as part of a walking tour from other central locations, including the St. Benezet bridge. Guided tours with transport included depart from towns including Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, and Paris.
When to Get There
The Palais des Papes is open every day of the year. Most people spend around two hours exploring the museum. Opening hours are seasonal: From April to June, it is open 9am–7pm. In July, 9am–8pm. In August, 9am–8:30pm. From September to February, 9:30am–5:45pm. In March, from 9am–6:30pm. Last entry is one hour before closing.
Experience the Avignon Jazz Festival
For one week every summer, the town of Avignon comes alive to the sound of jazz music. The Avignon Jazz Festival has operated since 1992 and welcomes some of the top names in jazz music to the Provencal city. Restaurants and cafes fill with music enthusiasts and there’s a celebratory atmosphere that all visitors will enjoy.
Address: 6, rue Pente Rapide, Avignon 84000, France
Admission: Varies
From $ 64
Fort Saint-Jean
Fort Saint-Jean is a historic but highly quirky fortification in the Old-Port of Marseilles commissioned by none other than Louis XIV in 1660—but not for obvious reasons. He had the fort built for defensive purposes, of course, but also because he wanted to please his Marseilles people, noticing that inhabitants were extremely fond of nice fortresses but were also wary of their governor; the two new forts were built in response to a local uprising rather than for the defense of the city - their cannons pointed inwards towards the town, not outwards towards the sea. The name of Saint-Jean comes from the site on which the fort is built, which was previously occupied by the Order of the Knights of Saint John.
The fort was later used for military purposes on several occasions, as it was in the possession of the French army for the better part of the 19th and 20th centuries; it was utilized as barracks and clearing station for the Army of Africa during the 1830s and was occupied by the German military in November 1942. But in the wake of the liberation of Marseilles in August 1944, much of the fort and its historic battlements and buildings were destroyed by the explosion of a munitions depot. Today Fort Saint-Jean is an exhibition space for permanent collections operated by MUCEM, the Musée des civilisations de l’Europe et de la Méditérannée.
Practical Info
Fort Saint-Jean is located on Promenade Louis Brauquier in the Old-Port of Marseilles. It can be reached on foot from Quai du Port and from Quai de la Tourette, and also by car with ample parking across Hôtel de Ville on Place Jules Verne (€6 for three hours, €7 for evenings between 7PM and 2AM or €17 for 24 hours). The closest tram station is Sadi Carnot and the closest metro station is Vieux-Port / Hôtel de Ville; both are located 10 minutes east of the fort.
Address: Prom. Louis Brauquier, Mareseille, France
From $ 11
La Canebiere
La Canebiere is Marseille's Champs Elysees. Modelled on the famous Parisian boulevard, it is a wide stretch leading straight up from Vieux Port (Old Port) for about 3/4 mile (1 km). it does not quite have the elegance of the Champs Elysees being a little more a hotch-potch of shops, hotels, and restaurants, but it is a great place to get the feel of the city. Named after the city's thriving trade is nautical rope in the Middle Ages - canabe being the French word for cannabis or hemp from which the rope was made - the street is now the spine of the thriving city.
La Canebiere acts as a divider between different city districts. To its west there is the modern shopping mall Centre Bourse, to the south is the moneyed district, and to the north you'll find the quartier Belsunce where you can buy just about anything from the local Arab community if you're prepared to haggle with the street-traders. Behind the Centre Bourse is the Jardin des Vestiges, the ancient port center. Excavations here have turned up all sorts of things including bits of the 3rd century BC Greek city. Most of the finds, and an old Roman trading boat, can be seen in the Musee d'Histoire de Marseille in the Centre Bourse. Further up the street is the Musee de la Marine (in the stock exchange building) which has the nautical history of Marseille.
Practical Info
La Canebiere runs in a straight line up from Vieux Port, the Old Port. Catch the metro to Vieux Port and walk up the boulevard. Alternately start in the middle at metro station Noailles. Or you can hop of the new tram, inaugurated in 2007 and head to Canebiere Garibaldi station. The Musee d'Histoire is open Mon-Sat, the Musee de la Marine is open Wed-Sun.
Address: La Canebiere, Marseille 13001, France
Admission: Free
From $ 30
Les Saintes Maries de la Mer
Surrounded by golden beaches in the spot where the Rhône River meets the Mediterranean Sea sits the whitewashed town of Saintes Maries de la Mer. As the capital of the Camargue region in the south of France, Saintes-Maries is a popular summertime destination made famous by the imposing Church of the Saintes Maries de la Mer. Built as both fortress and refuge between the ninth and 12th century, its grand Romanesque steeple can be seen from miles away.
A 20th-century literary and artistic haven beloved by the likes of Hemingway and Picasso, Saintes-Maries has seen everyone from the Romans to the Vikings, Van Gogh to Bob Dylan. Today its narrow, winding streets and lively French restaurants bustle with summertime action.
Saintes-Maries is also a popular visit among pilgrims. Why? It’s all in the name. French for “Saint Maries of the Sea,” this is said to be where the Virgin Mary’s sister, Marie-Jacobe, and John the Baptist’s mother, Marie-Salone, washed up with their servant Sarah when they all fled from the Holy Land in a rudderless boat. In celebration, every May there is a lively Roma procession dedicated to Sarah, patron saint of the gypsies, and in October the two Maries get their own parade.
Practical Info
To get to Saintes-Marie you can take the 30-minute bus ride from Arles, 24 miles (38 km) north.
Address: Les Saintes Maries de la Mer, France
From $ 81
La Corniche
Winding along the Mediterranean coast along the South of France, La Corniche is a waterfront roadway that stretches five kilometers through Marseille. As both a walkway and a road for cars, it offers wonderful views of the sea and coastline. It was a particularly popular promenade for residents of Marseille in the 1920s. From there you can also see the Iles du Frioul, elegant villas of the late 19th century, and the Prado beaches. The Chateau d’If (of the Count of Monte Cristo fame) is also visible.
Along the way sits the Maregraph Building, which took measurements over thirteen years to determine France’s sea level elevation. The bench of La Corniche runs three kilometers between the Pont de la Fausse-Monnaie and Hotel Sofitel Palm Beach, making it the longest bench in the world. Part of the roadway is named after President Kennedy, who was assassinated during its construction.
Along the way sits the Maregraph Building, which took measurements over thirteen years to determine France’s sea level elevation. The bench of La Corniche runs three kilometers between the Pont de la Fausse-Monnaie and Hotel Sofitel Palm Beach, making it the longest bench in the world. Part of the roadway is named after President Kennedy, who was assassinated during its construction.
Practical Info
La Corniche is located in Marseille’s 7th arrondisement. It can be reached via city bus from the Vieux Port. There is also a small tourist train that runs the length of the drive.
Address: Marseille, France
From $ 17
Marseilles Cruise Port
Marseilles is France’s largest and busiest port, welcoming over 1.5 million cruise passengers to its shores each year. As the gateway to Provence and the south of France, Marseilles is a popular stop on Europe cruise itineraries, and offers ferry connections to Corsica, Sardinia, Algeria, and Tunisia.
The Basics
Day tour destinations from Marseilles include the Provencal towns of Arles (56 miles or 90 kilometers northwest), Les Baux de Provence (50 miles or 80 kilometers northwest), and Aix-en-Provence (22 miles or 35 kilometers north). Highlights of these towns include wine tasting, lavender fields, and sites made famous by artists such as Van Gogh and Cézanne. Heading east along the Cote d’Azur toward the French Riviera, the Mediterranean resort town of Cassis (19 miles or 30 kilometers southwest) can be visited on a half-day tour, many of which include a boat cruise around Calanques National Park. Alternatively, there is plenty to see and do in Marseilles itself. Must-see attractions include the Old Port (Vieux Port), the historic Chateau d’If, and the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Shore excursions typically include port pickup and drop-off.
- Small-group and private tours are often covered by a worry-free policy, offering guaranteed on-time return to your ship.
- Marseilles cruise terminals are spread out over a large area, so be sure that you know which terminal your ship arrives and departs from.
How to Get to Marseilles from the Port of Marseilles
Most cruise ships dock roughly five miles (eight kilometers) north of the Vieux Port, the main center of Marseilles. Some smaller ships dock at Joliette Terminal, which is much closer and accessible by tram and metro. Free shuttle buses run every 30 minutes between all cruise ship terminals and Joliette Station.
Port Information
The currency used in Marseilles and all of France is the euro; US dollars are rarely accepted. French is the official language here, but English is also fairly common. You’ll find free Wi-Fi at the Marseille cruise terminal, as well as ATMs, currency exchange, and a tourist office.
Address: 23 place de la Joliette, Marseilles, Provence 13226, France
From $ 75
Monastère St Paul-de-Mausole
The monastery of St Paul-de-Mausole in Saint-Rémy de Provence was built in the 11th century and is a feast of Romanesque architecture with chapter houses, tranquil cloisters and manicured formal gardens. The monastery also had an asylum (maison de santé) run by the monks and nuns, which is most famous for being the year-long refuge of artist Vincent Van Gogh after he suffered with mental problems in 1889 and – famously – sliced off his ear.
While Van Gogh recuperated in St Paul-de-Mausole, he fell in love with the light of Provence and went through a wildly productive period, creating nearly 250 drawings and oil paintings in just over a year, including his best-loved masterpieces The Irises, Starry Night and Room in Arles. Appearing to be at the peak of his powers, tragically he declined when he left the safety and comfort of St Paul-de-Mausole and took his own life just two months later in July 1890.
Today St Paul-de-Mausole is still a functioning psychiatric health institution but in homage to the great artist also has a bleak reproduction of the room in which he was confined – he painted the view of the wheat fields from this room 15 times – and a small exhibition on the history of the asylum.
Practical Info
Located at Chemin Saint-Paul in Saint-Rémy de Provence, the site is open daily with hours of 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. from April to October and from 10:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. from November to March. Admission costs €3.80 for adults and €2.80 for seniors, students and children between the ages of 12 and 16. Kids under 12 enter for free. Saint-Rémy is 30 minutes south of Avignon by car.
Address: Chemin Saint-Paul, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, France
Admission: €3.80
From $ 45
Marseille Vieux Port (Old Port)
Once the city’s commercial maritime hub, Marseille Vieux Port (Old Port) has been in use since antiquity and is now used by yachts, fishing craft, and pleasure boats. The picturesque and vibrant quays are the setting for fish markets and historical buildings, as well as cafés and restaurants that specialize in fresh-from-the-boat seafood.
The Basics
To understand Marseille’s maritime heritage, a visit to this bustling port is a must. It is, after all, the nucleus from which the city grew. Biking and walking tours of Marseille—both guided and self-guided—include jaunts around the atmospheric Vieux Port, stopping at attractions such as the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (MuCEM) and the twin forts of Fort Saint-Jean and Fort Saint-Nicolas, which were built to guard the port.
The port area also features on street art tours of Marseille, which explore the mural and graffiti-adorned streets of nearby neighborhoods such as Cours Julien. Sightseeing boat tours and ferries also depart from the Vieux Port.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Marseille Vieux Port is a must for sightseers and foodies.
- Come hungry: There are lots of waterfront restaurants where you can dine on bouillabaisse (fish stew) and enjoy views of the boats coming and going from the harbor.
- Many of the port’s attractions, including MuCEM and Fort Saint-Jean, are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Marseille Vieux Port is centrally located in Marseille’s First Arrondissement. To get there, take the metro (line 1) to the Vieux-Port–Hôtel de Ville stop. Alternatively, walk along La Canebière, Marseille’s main drag, toward the waterfront.
When to Get There
With such an abundance of sunshine—more than 300 days per year—there are few bad times to visit Marseille. The same goes for the Vieux Port, though the area is busiest during July and August. If you want to go to the port’s fish market, get there early; the market runs from around 8am–1pm.
Marseille Vieux Port Fish Market
Held daily on Quai des Belges, this fish market is a local institution, with many Marseille restaurateurs coming here to source seafood for their kitchens. Availability changes depending on what the ocean provides, but bream, mussels, and red mullet are often on offer. If you want to buy some fish, have the fishmongers clean and fillet your chosen catch so it’s ready to cook.
Address: Quai du Port, Marseille 13002, France
Admission: Free
From $ 29
Lub eron
Located in the heart of Provence, France’s mountainous Lubéron region is famous for its vibrant purple lavender fields, forested valleys, and ancient hilltop villages such as Saignon, Bonnieux, and Gordes. Walking trails wind through the largely uninhabited region, past hills, woodlands, and fields dusted with wildflowers.
The Basics
You can explore Lubéron on a day trip from Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, or Marseille. The region’s hilltop villages—especially Roussillon and Gordes—are usually a tour highlight, and some excursions visit up to six villages in a single day. Day trips to Lubéron typically include a guided walking tour of each town and free time to explore, while some tours also visit nearby Provencal wineries. During the summer lavender season, Lubéron is a hotspot for flower-themed excursions, which visit impressive purple-coated locations such as the Senanque Abbey, the foothills of Mont Ventoux, and the Sault Plateau. For a personalized experience and more free time for photos, opt for a small-group or private tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lubéron is a must-see for nature and culture lovers.
- Wear comfortable shoes—many villages have steep hills and cobblestone lanes.
- Be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as summer temperatures in Provence can reach over 86°F (30°C).
- The medieval villages and steep hills of Provence can be a challenge for wheelchair users; if needed, it’s a good idea to visit as part of a wheelchair-accessible tour.
How to Get There
The Lubéron region is located roughly 90 minutes by road from both Aix-en-Provence and Avignon, and two hours by road from Marseille. Public transportation is limited in the area, so it’s a good idea to rent a car or visit on a guided tour.
When to Get There
Summer (June through August) is the most popular time to visit, when the lavender fields are in bloom and Lubéron’s tiny villages are typically very crowded. During this time, many of the villages host lavender festivals and markets. Opt for an early morning or late evening visit to avoid crowds, or visit during winter, spring, or fall.
The Villages of Lubéron
Lubéron’s villages each have their own character and many are situated on hillsides, offering panoramic views of the Provencal countryside. The hilltop village of Gordes is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful spots in France, while Roussillon is known for its dramatic ochre cliffs. The village of Lourmarin is renowned for its Renaissance castle, and Castellet is home to one of the region’s oldest lavender distilleries.
The villages have other claims to fame as well: picturesque Bonnieux was the setting for Ridley Scott’s film A Good Year, while Lourmarin counts Albert Camus and Winston Churchill among its former residents. Gordes was a favorite of famous painter Marc Chagall, and the whole region featured in Peter Mayle’s bestselling novel A Year in Provence.
Address: Parc Naturel regional du Luberon, Merindol 84360, France
From $ 81
Nimes
Although Nimes is in the Languedoc Region, its close proximity to Provence's Avignon make it a natural day trip destination – particularly if you're following the trail of Roman history that is so prevalent in the South of France. And what a history it has!
It's a history that stretches back to pre-Roman times, with various evidence of Bronze Age settlements. But with the Romans came more permanent colonization; soldiers were often given tracts of land in the area as payment for battles. The original Roman gates are still there, as is the Colosseum-style arena. Check the city's entertainment schedule before visiting, and catch a concert inside – something you can't do in Rome!
Throughout the city are various ruins that have been preserved as best as possible, but the jewel of Nimes is without a doubt the temple Maison Carrée. Built just before the turn of the millennium, its near-perfect condition makes it one of the finest examples of Roman architecture found anywhere in the world. Thomas Jefferson was so taken with it, in fact, that he has the statehouse in Virginia built in its likeness!
Today Nimes is a fairly large and bustling city, with great restaurants and gorgeous parks and other public green spaces. It's only about 45 minutes from Avignon, and on the way you can stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pont du Gard, to soak in even more Roman architecture and history!
Address: Nimes, France
From $ 45
Gordes
When you stand at the precipice of the precariously perched Gordes in Provence and look into the valley below, you'll see a road leading away towards Apt. See it? That road is thousands of years old, built by the Romans. So in case the town itself doesn't knock your socks off – and if it doesn't, check your pulse – then the sight of that road should make you realize just how much history there is in this area of France.
And the history of Gordes doesn't stop with the Romans; from fortifications against Arabs in the first millennium to the 12th century Sénanque Abbey surrounded by lavender to its eventual addition as a French royal provence in the Middle Ages and a Resistance stronghold during WWII, this is not your run-of-the-mill charming village.
Today Gordes is one of those “hidden gem” towns, often overlooked for the more popular Avignon nearby. But between Peter Mayle's mention of it in his books as well as being a popular location for films, it's coming into its own and welcomes visitors with open arms. Helping with its hospitality is the fact that it holds the official classification of being one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France; its residents are justly proud of the title, and much care has been taken to accommodate visitors without destroying what makes it so special.
With so much to see and do in the area, it's an easy visit up to Gordes (as long as you aren't squeamish on winding roads). It shouldn't take you any longer than 45 minutes to get there from Avignon; then you can head back down to Cavaillon to taste the famous local melon that bears its name!
Address: Gordes, France
From $ 45
Eglise St-Trophime
The Eglise St-Trophime is a masterpiece of 12th-century Romanesque architecture in the Provençal city of Arles, which is located on the banks of the River Rhône and on the doorstep of the wild, marshy Camargue. Along with the city’s many Roman remains, the church was UNESCO World Heritage-listed in 1981; it was constructed from pale-hued stone in the 11th and 12th centuries and dedicated to Trophime, who was an early bishop of Arles and later its patron saint.
Its magnificent, colonnaded Romanesque portal was restored in the late 20th century; its carvings depict the Last Judgment, with Christ overseeing anguished sinners being dragged down into Hell and the righteous ascending to Heaven. Statues of lions, the Apostles and other saints guard the entrance to the church, which is austere and symmetrical on the inside. The adjoining cloisters surround a tranquil garden and are a combination of Romanesque and late- Gothic architecture, with ornate columns and pillars covered with sculptures of biblical scenes and figures of saints.
The church’s chapter house has a long medieval hall with a vaulted ceiling and displays some Gobelin tapestries alongside occasional temporary exhibitions.
Practical Info
12 rue du Cloître, Arles. Church open daily 8.30am–6.30pm. Cloister: Nov–Feb daily 10am–5pm; Mar–Apr, Oct: daily 9am–6pm; May-Sept 9am–7pm. Admission is free.
Address: 12 Rue du Cloître, Arles 13200, France
Hours: Daily 8:30am-6:30pm
From $ 127
Manosque
Located on the limits of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department on the edge of the Luberon, Manosque is an old walled town filled with ancient doorways, fountains, meandering streets and charming squares like Place du Terreau, Place Marcel Pagnol and Place du Contrôle. Furthermore, Manosque has numerous historical buildings like Hôtel d’Herbès, the Town Hall, Hôtel de Gassaud, the Gothic-Romanesque Saint-Sauveur Church and, of course, the Notre-Dame-de-Romigier Church, which was built in the 10th century.
A “walled town” implies gates and fortifications, and Manosque has both, with two of its most popular attractions being the Porte de la Saunerie and Porte du Soubeyran, which both date from the 14th century.
For unobstructed views of the pear-shaped village, its burnished rooftops and the surrounding countryside filled with orchards and olive groves, visitors should consider trekking to Mont d’Or, a feat easily done thanks to a bucolic setting and the town’s typically sunny weather (over 300 days out of the year). Less than a mile away from Manosque’s center, Mont d’Or is also home to the remains of a 10th-century castle and lookout post erected by Guillaume the Liberator, which offer 360-degree views of the vast horizons stretching over the Luberon, including the southernmost peaks of the Alps on clear days.
Practical Info
Manosque makes for an easy day trip from Aix-en-Provence, being just 35 miles (57 km) away via the A51, roughly a 40-minute ride. It is also possible to reach Manosque by regional train from Aix-en-Provence and Marseilles (arrive at Manosque Greoux Les Bains station).
Address: Manosque, Aix en Provence, France
From $ 127
Marseille Cathedral (Cath edrale La Major)
Marseille Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral and basilica minor located in the Old-Port of Marseilles and a national monument of France. Far from being just a run-of-the-mill church, it is the seat of the Archdiocese of Marseille and the hobbyhorse of Prince Louis Napoleon Bonaparte, who laid the first stone of the new building in 1852. The foundations, commonly referred to as the Old Major, date back to the 12th century and correspond to a sober Romanesque style. Only the choir and one bay of the nave persist today, as a new, more opulent cathedral was built next to the remains in 1852. The new Marseilles Cathedral was built on a gigantic scale in the Byzantine-Roman style from 1852 to 1896.
Despite its isolated location on the far end of Panier district and along the busy commercial port, this cathedral should not be missed as it is still today the only one of its kind in all of France, and doesn’t fail to impress with its sheer size and extravagant architecture. Its iconic green and black stones form an instantly recognizable stripe pattern, flanked by two bell towers and a dramatic entrance.
Practical Info
Marseille Cathedral (Cathédrale La Major) is located on Place de la Major, between the Old-Port of Marseilles and historic Panier district. It can be reached on foot from Quai du Port and from Quai de la Tourette, and also by car with a public parking on the corner of Quai de la Tourette and Marchetti. The closest tram stations are République Dame and Sadi Carnot and the closest metro station is Colbert; they are located 10 minutes east of the fort. The cathedral is open to visitors from 10am to 7pm in summer and from 10am to 6pm in winter. It is closed on Mondays.
Address: Place de la Major, Marseille 13002, France
From $ 41
Moustiers Ste-Marie
Often classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Moustiers Ste-Marie lies at the western entrance of the majestic Verdon Gorge National Park, and is built on 300-foot (100-meter) platform terraces up the side of limestone cliffs.
The most popular thing to do in Moustiers Ste-Marie, besides roaming its romantic, winding alleys, is to stand atop the Notre-Dame-de-Beauvoir chapel and admire the jaw-dropping panorama over Plateau de Valensole (one of the biggest lavender-producing areas in Provence, especially lovely in July when the fields are in full bloom).
Visitors who would rather stay on firm ground should consider visiting Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption church, a historic building with a stunning Romanesque bell tower and nave. Alternatively, they can shop for the world-famous Moustiers faience (pottery) at one of the village’s 20 workshops, a craft that has been a specialty of the region since the Middle Ages.
But the most peculiar sight in Moustiers Ste-Marie sways high up in the air; the star of Moustiers, as the locals call it, is a 2.5-foot wide, 16-branch star that hangs on a 700-foot chain suspended between two cliffs. Rumor has it that it was the ex-voto of the Knight of Blacas, who promised to build an offering to honor the Virgin Mary if he made it back home alive after being taken prisoner during the Crusade.
Moustiers Ste-Marie is one of the many French villages that simply don’t have to do much to impress; a simple glance at its squares, its colorful facades and its striking views will suffice to charm even the most reluctant visitor.
Practical Info
Moustiers Ste-Marie is located 56 miles (90 km) northeeast of Aix-en-Provence. It can be reached by car within 1.5 hours via the A51 and D952, and it can also be reached from Cannes via the A8 in just under two hours.
Address: Moustiers Ste-Marie, Aix en Provence, France
Hours: Daily
From $ 64
Lourmarin Castle
Chateau de Lourmarin is a castle in the town of Lourmarin in southern France. It was originally built as a fortress in the 12th and 13th centuries, though little remains of this structure. What visitors can see today is the castle that was converted in the 15th century. There is also a Renaissance wing that was built in the 16th century. This section of the castle is completely furnished and has a collection of fine art as well as furniture, engravings, paintings, musical instruments, and other antiques from the 16th through 19th centuries.
Visitors can also explore various rooms of the castle and admire the exceptional architecture. The older section of the castle was built in an Italian style, giving it an air of elegance. The castle also serves as a cultural center. Painters, sculptors, and musicians are hosted here during the summer months, and summer concerts and theater shows are performed on the castle terraces. The castle also has activities for children, such as scavenger hunts and games.
Practical Info
Lourmarin Castle is located 23 miles from Aix-en-Provence and can be reached using route D13. Opening hours are 10am to 6:30pm June through August; 10am to 12:30pm and 2:30pm to 6pm May and September; 10:30am to 12:30pm and 2pm to 5pm March, April, and October; 10:30am to 12:30pm and 2:30pm to 4:30pm February, November, and December; 2:30pm to 4:30pm on Saturdays and Sundays in January. Admission is 6.50 euros.
Address: Lourmarin, France
Hours: Vary by season
Admission: 6.50 euros
From $ 81