8 day itinerary for Provance

Itinerary

Oh, how exciting! An 8-day road trip through Provence sounds absolutely delightful! With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and charming villages, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances your love for Catholic and historic sites with the breathtaking natural beauty of the region. Buckle up!

## Day 1: Arrival in Avignon

Morning: Arrive in Avignon, the city of the Popes! Check into your hotel and freshen up.
Afternoon: Visit the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its grand halls and chapels.
Evening: Stroll across the Pont Saint-Bénézet (the famous bridge) and enjoy dinner at a local bistro. Try some Ratatouille or Bouillabaisse!

## Day 2: Avignon to Arles

Morning: Drive to Arles (about 30 minutes). Visit the Basilique Saint-Trophime, a stunning Romanesque church.
Afternoon: Explore the Roman Amphitheatre and the Van Gogh Café. Don’t forget to take a walk along the Rhone River.
Evening: Enjoy dinner in the vibrant Place du Forum, soaking in the lively atmosphere.

## Day 3: Arles to Les Baux-de-Provence

Morning: Head to Les Baux-de-Provence (about 30 minutes). Visit the Château des Baux, a medieval fortress with breathtaking views.
Afternoon: Explore the Saint Vincent Church and wander through the charming streets filled with artisan shops.
Evening: Drive to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence (about 20 minutes) for dinner. Try some local wines!

## Day 4: Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Surroundings

Morning: Visit the Saint-Paul de Mausole monastery where Van Gogh stayed. It’s a serene place with beautiful gardens.
Afternoon: Take a scenic drive to the Alpilles Natural Regional Park. Enjoy a picnic surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Evening: Return to Saint-Rémy for dinner. Explore the local markets if they’re open!

## Day 5: Avignon to Gordes and Roussillon

Morning: Drive to Gordes (about 1 hour). This hilltop village is a must-see! Visit the Abbaye de Sénanque, famous for its lavender fields (best in summer).
Afternoon: Head to Roussillon (about 30 minutes). Walk through the ochre trails and enjoy the vibrant colors of the village.
Evening: Have dinner in Roussillon, enjoying the sunset over the ochre cliffs.

## Day 6: Luberon Villages

Morning: Explore the beautiful villages of the Luberon region. Start with Ménerbes and then head to Bonnieux.
Afternoon: Visit Lacoste, where you can see the ruins of the Marquis de Sade’s castle.
Evening: Return to your base (perhaps Avignon) for dinner. Enjoy some local cheese and bread!

## Day 7: Aix-en-Provence

Morning: Drive to Aix-en-Provence (about 1 hour). Visit the Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, a beautiful mix of architectural styles.
Afternoon: Stroll through the Cours Mirabeau, lined with cafes and shops. Don’t miss the Saint-Jean-de-Malte Church.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some bouillabaisse or a Provençal salad.

## Day 8: Departure from Marseille

Morning: Drive to Marseille (about 30 minutes). Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, which offers stunning views of the city and the sea.
Afternoon: Explore the Vieux Port and grab some lunch at a seafood restaurant.
Evening: Depending on your flight time, you might have a little more time to explore before heading to the airport.

Tips for Your Road Trip:

• Make sure to have a good map or GPS, as some villages can be a bit tricky to navigate.
• Try to sample local wines and cheeses at every stop!
• Don’t rush; take your time to soak in the beauty and charm of each place.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable adventure in Provence! Enjoy every moment of your journey! 🌻🚗✨