{"id":7474,"date":"2025-04-23T08:27:02","date_gmt":"2025-04-23T08:27:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/justpaste.in\/blogs\/14-very-best-places-in-provence-to-visit\/"},"modified":"2026-08-04T08:45:41","modified_gmt":"2026-08-04T08:45:41","slug":"14-very-best-places-in-provence-to-visit","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/justpaste.in\/blogs\/14-very-best-places-in-provence-to-visit\/","title":{"rendered":"14 Very Best Places In Provence To Visit"},"content":{"rendered":"

There are so many gorgeous areas in France<\/a> to visit, with Provence being no exception. Not only is it one of the more iconic places in France<\/a> to visit, but it also has a heap of the best places in Provence to visit year-round.<\/p>\n

Honestly, Provence has a little something for every type of traveller. From gorgeous little communes, like Gordes<\/a>, centuries of history and the most beautiful vistas and mountain ranges<\/a>, Provence is totally amazing to visit.<\/p>\n

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So, to make your trip run smoothly, we’ve jotted down some of the top places in Provence you should see and explore when in France. This way, you can focus on travelling around Provence, without any of the added pressure of researching on the go! <\/p>\n

Anyway, ramble over! Take a look at some of the best places in Provence to visit when in France. Have the most wonderful time! <\/p>\n

1.) Avignon<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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The first thing you need to visit in Avignon<\/a> is the Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage and Europe’s largest Gothic palace.<\/p>\n

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It’s honestly stunning, and the frescos are beautiful. Plus, Palais de Papes has been the home of nine Popes between 1309 and 1403. It’s well worth a gander once you arrive. <\/p>\n

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Aside from the Palais de Papes, other gorgeous spots in Avignon are Mus\u00e9e du Petit Palais, where you can see famous works of Giovanni Bellini and Sandro Botticelli, among others, and religious landmarks like the Proven\u00e7al Romanesque Eglise Saint-Didier and the 12th-century Cath\u00e9drale Notre-Dame-des-Doms.<\/p>\n

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Of course, you’ve got to stroll across the Medieval bridge of Pont d’Avignon and take a gander at Jardin des Doms on a sunny summer day.<\/p>\n

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Afterwards, head to Grand Caf\u00e9 Baretta<\/a>, which we loved! Just be sure to book a table if you’re heading here on a weekend; it does fill up fast. <\/p>\n

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Oh yeah, and if you fancy a little gander away from the city streets of Avignon, you can check out the medieval village of Ch\u00e2teauneuf-du-Pape and Villeneuve-lez-Avignon. The former is one of our favourite wine regions in all of France. <\/p>\n

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Heading further away from Avignon? Make sure to check out the town of Orange. Here, you\u2019ll find the ancient 1st-century AD Th\u00e9\u00e2tre Antique, which is one of the best places in Provence to visit.<\/p>\n

Here, you’ll get to watch performances, comedies, and acrobatics during the Roman era. In the present time, the theatre is used for cultural events like Les Chor\u00e9gies d’Orange. Other must-see spots in Orange are the Arc de Triomphe, the H\u00e9micycle, and the Mus\u00e9e d’Art et d’Histoire, where you need to check out the Mosaique des Centaures.<\/p>\n

Looking for the best hotel in Avignon<\/a>? Make sure to book this room at Hotel d’Europe<\/a>.  It’s one of Avignon’s luxe 5-star hotels and they have some of the best rooms in the city<\/a>. Best of all, you can stroll right from the hotel to so many of Avignon’s best places. <\/p>\n

Powered by GetYourGuide<\/a><\/div>\n

Read more: Best places in Avignon to visit<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

2.) Les Baux de Provence<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Les Baux de Provence is like a step back in time. It totally looks incredible and is easily one of the best places in Provence to visit as you head around the region.<\/p>\n

Here, you’ll get to experience a glimpse of the Middle Ages by visiting Les Baux-de-Provence by strolling its streets. It’s so picturesque, especially with all its stone buildings, flower-filled terraces, quaint galleries, and cobblestone streets.<\/p>\n

After arriving, you have to head over to Ch\u00e2teau des Baux. It’s a stunning castle, albeit in ruins, that’s well worth taking a gander at. Then, pop over to Eglise Saint-Vincent and the Mus\u00e9e Yves, too. The latter is great if the weather takes a turn and you’re looking for some epic places indoors.<\/p>\n

Getting peckish? Grab a yummy lunch at Le Bouchon Rouge<\/a>. Their crepes and pates are so good. <\/p>\n

3.) Cassis<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Once considered a hidden gem, Cassis has become much more well-known over the last few decades. Though that isn’t a negative. In fact, it’s still one of the best places in Provence to visit, that’s right on the coast and a stone’s throw from the nearby city of Marseille. <\/p>\n

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With its white cliffs, Cassis is a totally gorgeous spot to visit in Summer, especially when the weather is hot. We love the little coves and bays around this area, especially Calanque de Port Pin<\/a> and Calanque d’En-vau<\/a>, which are not too far away. <\/p>\n

Not only that, Cassis is world-renowned for its winemaking, and you’ll be able to try a tipple (or two) in loads of the little bars and restaurants that line its shorefront. <\/p>\n

We popped into Le Grand Large and loved it. They serve up heaps of fresh seafood, and their scallops are everything. Plus, you can usually find bouillabaisse<\/em> (a sort of fish stew) that’s so tasty. <\/p>\n

Looking for the best hotel in Cassis<\/a>? Make sure you book this room at HPC Suites<\/a>. This stunning hotel has the most gorgeous grounds and pool. Plus, the beach is less than a 10-minute stroll from the hotel itself. Stunning. <\/p>\n

4.) Gordes<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Okay, for me, Gordes<\/a> is idyllic and easily one of the best places in Provence to visit. Honestly, it’s a place you can’t miss. <\/p>\n

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Perched in the region around Luberon Natural Regional Park, Gordes and its surroundings have been an inspiration to famous artists for their paintings for centuries (Marc Chagall and Victor Vasar\u00e9ly, to name a few). Trust me, you’ll see why when you visit.<\/p>\n

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After arriving, be sure to stop off at Ch\u00e2teau de Gordes and head inside the Les Caves du Palais Saint-Firmin, which are well worth seeing. Oh, and for some great views of Gordes, head to Point de vue sur Gordes<\/em><\/a>. It’s easy to stop in the car and take in the views from here. <\/p>\n

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Nearby, you’ll be able to drive to Village des Bories to see some of the UNESCO-protected stone ruins surrounding the area. There’s also a gorgeous property<\/a> to stay at, Les Bories & Spa<\/a>, that’s not too far away at all.<\/p>\n

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Finally, a great place to stay in the centre of Gordes<\/a> is Airelles Gordes<\/a>. In fact, I’d go as far as saying it’s one of Frances’ best hotels and the whole property oozes luxury<\/a>. It’s incredible. The rooms are gorgeous, and they easily make one of the best hot chocolate drinks I’ve ever had! <\/p>\n

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Since Gordes is around a 17-kilometre drive from Cavaillon and 40 kilometres away from Avignon, you can have some stopovers, like in the Abbaye de S\u00e9nanque<\/a>, all along the way.<\/p>\n

It’s a totally scenic abbey and a spot to stretch your legs where you’ll see all that beautiful (seasonally blooming) lavender. Just an FYI, the peak times for lavender blooms are mid-July. <\/p>\n

Powered by GetYourGuide<\/a><\/div>\n

Read more: Best places to see in Gordes<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

5.) Uzes<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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For an authentic gem in Provence, do not forget to explore the village of Uz\u00e8s. It’s totally lovely to visit and is a small commune that’s steeped in history. <\/p>\n

You see, Uzes has gone through several periods, being a former Jewish enclave, a dukedom, a settlement of Romans, and a hamlet. Because of this mix, you can see a huge array of cultures and architectural influences that make Uzes so special.<\/p>\n

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Once here, check out Pont du Gard and a castle in the town centre where a duke still resides and visit the Uz\u00e8s Medieval Garden that’s totally quaint. <\/p>\n

Oh, and don’t forget the Sunday market when you visit. You’ll leave with bags of local treats.<\/p>\n

6.) Venasque<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Not only known for its cherries and grapes that are seasonally grown in this region of Provence, Venasque is also home to the pre-Romanesque Baptist\u00e8re de Venasque. It’s one of France\u2019s oldest shrines and one of the best places in Provence to visit if you love history.<\/p>\n

Perched in the Venasque, you’ll only spend a few hours in Venasque as it’s pretty small. This makes it a perfect stopping point as part of a wider Provence road trip. <\/p>\n

Once here, you’ll get to see the Roman walls, ancient ramparts, and the Baptistery, which are beautiful to see. Plus, you’ll see one of the most notable items in Venasque, the Crucifixion painting. You will find it in Notre Dame de Venasque and is well worth seeing whilst in the town.<\/p>\n

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For a tasty bite to eat in summer, check out Plein Air<\/a> which is not too far away by car. It’s an organic restaurant set on a farm, which is so lovely. Plus, you get to eat outside and enjoy this beautiful region in the sunshine. We love it. <\/p>\n

7.) L\u2019Isle-sur-la-Sorgue<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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A paradise for Antique hunters and market lovers, L\u2019Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is one of the best places in Provence to visit. A little bigger than spots like Gordes, you can easily spend a few days wandering the area and checking out this Provence island town that’s totally unique.<\/p>\n

Talking about stalls, there are more than 300 stalls you can explore during the Sunday market. Plus, if you happen to have your trip on the first Sunday of August, be sure to check out the local market where wines and wares are sold by the locals.<\/p>\n

The historic watermills, boats and riverbank caf\u00e9s give L\u2019Isle-sur-la-Sorgue that charming atmosphere that makes Provence so special.<\/p>\n

8.) Saint-R\u00e9my de Provence<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Found in the Alpilles Mountains\u2019 northern foothills, Saint-R\u00e9my de Provence is a peaceful place you have to visit.<\/p>\n

Known by some as the spot where Vincent van Gogh spent a year in the Monast\u00e8re Saint-Paul de Mausole. Nowadays, you can visit his room and look at the copies of paintings he created whilst in the area.<\/p>\n

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Haven\u2019t seen an open market yet?<\/p>\n

Then, Saint-R\u00e9my de Provence is the place for you. It’s one of the best places in Provence for markets, and we love it. Once here, you can enjoy mingling with the locals on Wednesday mornings, when the Grand March\u00e9 Proven\u00e7al, which is a large market, spreads throughout the old town\u2019s main squares.<\/p>\n

Finally, you can also visit the Coll\u00e9giale Saint-Martin or the Glanum Excavation Site.<\/p>\n

When it comes to food, try the specialities of the region in La Roma (33 Boulevard Marceau), Chocolaterie Jo\u00ebl Durand (3 Boulevard Victor Hugo), Le Petit Duc, and a famous spot among locals, Le Bistro du Paradou. There’s a heap of yummy spots and you’ll be spoilt for choice. <\/p>\n

9.) Arles<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Another place where Van Gogh resided in Provence is Arles. In fact, you can stroll the Van Gogh Circuit<\/a> and see some of the spots where Van Gogh painted some 300 paintings around Arles. <\/p>\n

To this day, you can visit Langlois Bridge is one of his famous painting spots, which still stands proudly. <\/p>\n

Van Gogh aside, Arles is also a UNESCO-protected site and has heaps of historical spots you can’t miss. Of course, you have to explore the Roman Arles Amphitheatre, which dates back millennia.<\/p>\n

Also, check out Alyscamps, which leads over to a historic Roman cemetery in Arles. <\/p>\n

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10.) Aix-en-Provence<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Having Southern France\u2019s warmth and Paris\u2019 class, Aix-en-Provence is a must-see in the Provence Region. It’s got that city feel that’s perfect if you prefer more of a city break in Provence. <\/p>\n

Throughout this area, you\u2019ll see heaps of historical spots and iconic places you can’t miss. In fact, it’s one of the best places in Provence to visit for its culture and history.<\/p>\n

Be sure to stroll through the boulevard of Cours Mirabeau, where you can then meander through the smaller streets that join it. <\/p>\n

After taking a stroll, be sure to visit Mus\u00e9e Granet, the Cath\u00e9drale Saint-Sauveur, the Atelier de C\u00e9zanne (studio), and marketplaces like Place des Pr\u00eacheurs for farmers\u2019 products and Place de la Mairie for flowers. It’s a totally walkable city and they’re all easy to spot along your meander through Aix-en-Provence.<\/p>\n

11.) Menton <\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Nestled right on the border with Italy, Menton is one of the best places in Provence to visit as you follow the coastline. Now, you can easily spend a few days in Menton, so make sure you plan your time wisely. <\/p>\n

Once here, be sure to check out the totally gorgeous Jardins Biov\u00e8s, which are right in the heart of Menton. The gardens are stunning and totally worth seeing on your walk around the area.<\/p>\n

Also, don’t forget about March\u00e9 des Halles for its historic market that you can’t miss. You’ll easily grab a few treats whilst you’re here. <\/p>\n

Finally, although it’s not Provence, you can easily visit the tiny country of Monaco whilst you’re here. It’s only around 15 minutes away and is the second-smallest country in the whole world. <\/p>\n

Read more: Best cities in France to visit<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

12.) Roussillon<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Not too far from Gordes<\/a>, Roussillon is one of the best places in Provence to visit whilst you drive further east from Avignon. <\/p>\n

Although small, Roussillon has heaps of little art galleries and the most lovely vineyard<\/a> that’s just outside the commune itself. <\/p>\n

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Now, although you won’t spend days in Roussillon, it’s well worth visiting for a few hours on your wider Provence itinerary. We loved it. <\/p>\n

Read more: What to do in Gordes and Roussillon<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

13.) Se\u0301guret<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Although small, S\u00e9guret is well worth a little gander to explore. Once here, be sure to stroll around the area of Le Sentier des Ocres. Filled with yellow and red cliffs, there are marked hikes and walkways where you can explore this beautiful area. <\/p>\n

Best of all, S\u00e9guret is at the foot of Dentelles de Montmirail, a glorious mountain range that is perfect for hiking. This makes it easy to pair a stay in Se\u0301guret with a wider exploration of the great outdoors. <\/p>\n

Also, not too far away from Se\u0301guret is Les Gorges du Toulourenc. It’s a great hiking and kayaking spot that’s totally beautiful in summer. <\/p>\n

Read more: Best cities in France to visit<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

14.) Dentelles de Montmirail<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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The mountain ranges in Provence are iconic and can’t be missed as you head around the larger region. In fact, I’d say that the Dentelles de Montmirail chain is one of the best places in Provence to visit if you love the great outdoors. <\/p>\n

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Formed millions of years ago, during the Jurassic Period, the spiked and jagged towering mountains are so incredible to see. Best of all, there are hundreds of hiking trails that run all around the Dentelles de Montmirail that suit all different types of abilities. <\/p>\n

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Just be sure to pack plenty of water and wear some good hiking shoes. Trust me, you’ll definitely need both of these as a bare minimum. <\/p>\n

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That being said, if you don’t fancy hiking, drive to the top of Mont Ventoux. It’s the highest mountain in Provence and is often called the Giant of Provence by locals!<\/p>\n

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The views are breathtaking, but be sure to take warm clothes with you – the height makes it really chilly when you’re at the top. <\/p>\n

Read more: Best cities in France to visit<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

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18 Very Best Cities in France to Visit (From Paris to Hidden Gems)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n