8 day itinerary
Provence, France
Itinerary
Provence is a stunning region in France, filled with charming towns, beautiful landscapes, and delicious food. Here’s an ideal 8-day itinerary that will let you soak in the beauty and culture of Provence while visiting various towns, villages, and markets. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in
Morning: Arrive in , the heart of Provence. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
Afternoon: Explore the iconic (Palace of the Popes) and stroll around the charming streets of the old town. Don’t miss the famous !
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local bistro. Try some ratatouille or a classic Provençal dish.
Day 2: to
Morning: Head to the (if it’s a Thursday or Saturday) for some fresh produce and local delicacies. Grab some goodies for a picnic!
Afternoon: Drive to (about 30 minutes). Visit the and the beautiful . Explore the vibrant streets and perhaps visit the local market if it’s a Wednesday or Saturday.
Evening: Enjoy dinner in , perhaps at a restaurant with a view of the amphitheater.
Day 3: and
Morning: After breakfast, take a short drive to . Explore the medieval village and visit the , an incredible art installation in a former quarry.
Afternoon: Head to (about 15 minutes away). Visit the local market (Wednesday) and enjoy lunch at a café. Don’t forget to check out the where Van Gogh stayed.
Evening: Dinner in Saint-Rémy, perhaps trying some local wines.
Day 4: and
Morning: Depart for , one of the most beautiful villages in France. Explore the village and visit the , famous for its lavender fields (best in summer).
Afternoon: Drive to , known for its ochre cliffs. Wander through the colorful streets and visit the ochre trail for stunning views.
Evening: Enjoy dinner in , soaking in the sunset over the ochre hills.
Day 5: Luberon Villages
Morning: Spend the day exploring the Luberon region. Start with a visit to and then head to , where you can see the ruins of the Marquis de Sade’s castle.
Afternoon: Visit , a quaint village with lovely shops and cafés. Enjoy a leisurely lunch and perhaps a wine tasting at a local vineyard.
Evening: Return to your base for dinner or find a cozy spot in one of the villages.
Day 6:
Morning: Drive to (about 1 hour). Start your day at the bustling market (Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday) where you can sample local cheeses, olives, and pastries.
Afternoon: Explore the beautiful and visit the . Don’t forget to check out the art scene, including the .
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in Aix, perhaps trying the local specialty, a calisson.
Day 7: and the Calanques
Morning: Head to (about 30 minutes from Aix). Enjoy a leisurely breakfast by the harbor.
Afternoon: Take a boat tour of the , where you can marvel at the stunning cliffs and turquoise waters. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also hike some of the trails.
Evening: Have dinner in , enjoying fresh seafood with a view of the harbor.
Day 8: Departure
Morning: Depending on your departure time, you might have a leisurely breakfast and a final stroll through the streets of or Aix.
Afternoon: Head to the airport or train station for your departure, taking with you wonderful memories of Provence!
Tips:
- Transportation: Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the region at your own pace.
- Markets: Check local schedules for markets, as they vary by day and town.
- Timing: Be mindful of opening hours for attractions, especially in the off-season.
I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable adventure in Provence! Enjoy the stunning landscapes, delicious food, and charming villages! 🌻🍷