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THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN PROVENCE
THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE
The Best Things To Do In Provence
Provence captivates with its sun-drenched landscapes, lavender-scented fields, medieval hilltop villages, ancient Roman ruins, world-class wines, and vibrant markets. In 2026, this timeless region of southern France blends historic charm with modern experiences—from the 80th edition of the Festival d'Avignon (July 4–25) to immersive art at Carrières de Lumières (featuring Picasso and Frida Kahlo from February) and sustainable vineyard tours. Whether you're drawn to the Luberon's ochre cliffs, the Calanques' turquoise coves, or the Rhône Valley's bold reds, Provence offers sensory delights for every traveler. This guide highlights the top experiences with rich histories, bullet-point highlights, and practical tips for planning your perfect Provençal adventure.
The Best Things To Do In Provence
1. Explore the Hilltop Villages of the Luberon – Gordes, Roussillon & More
The Luberon's perched villages are Provence's postcard-perfect icons, with stone houses cascading down hillsides amid vineyards and olive groves. These villages, classified among France's most beautiful, have preserved their medieval character while inspiring artists and writers like Peter Mayle in "A Year in Provence."
History: Gordes originated as a fortified settlement in Roman times, with its castle dating to the 10th–12th centuries. It became a Protestant stronghold during the Wars of Religion. Roussillon's ochre quarries were exploited since Roman times, peaking in the 18th–19th centuries for pigments used worldwide. The area's dry-stone bories (stone huts) date back centuries, used by shepherds and farmers.
- Wander Gordes' narrow cobblestone streets and visit the Tuesday market for local produce and crafts
- Admire the lavender-framed Sénanque Abbey (12th-century Cistercian monastery) near Gordes
- Explore Roussillon's colorful ochre trails and cliffs in the Sentier des Ocres
- Discover quieter villages like Bonnieux, Ménerbes, or Lacoste for panoramic views and fewer crowds
- Enjoy scenic drives or cycle the Luberon's rolling hills and vineyards
2. Discover Avignon & the Palais des Papes
Avignon, the historic heart of Provence, boasts the massive Gothic Palais des Papes—once the seat of the papacy—and the famous Pont d'Avignon (Pont Saint-Bénézet). The walled old town buzzes with cafés, shops, and summer theater.
History: Avignon became the papal seat from 1309–1377 during the "Avignon Papacy," when seven popes resided here to escape turmoil in Rome. The Palais des Papes, built 1335–1364, is the largest Gothic palace in the world. The famous bridge, built 1177–1185, was partially destroyed by floods but immortalized in the song "Sur le Pont d'Avignon."
- Tour the UNESCO-listed Palais des Papes with its grand halls, frescoes, and papal apartments
- Walk the medieval ramparts for city and Rhône River views
- Attend the Festival d'Avignon (July 4–25, 2026, 80th edition) for world-class theater in historic courtyards
- Visit the Pont Saint-Bénézet and chapel
- Explore the old town's lively squares and Provençal markets
3. Wander Through Lavender Fields & Festivals
Provence's iconic purple waves of lavender create one of Europe's most photogenic landscapes, with fields around Sault, Valensole, and Sénanque Abbey offering classic vistas and soothing scents.
History: Lavender cultivation dates to Roman times for medicinal and perfumery uses. It boomed in the 19th century as a cash crop for essential oils, soaps, and sachets. The lavender economy remains vital, with distilleries and cooperatives preserving traditional methods.
- Visit the vast Valensole Plateau for endless rows and sunflower contrasts
- Admire lavender-framed Sénanque Abbey (12th century) near Gordes
- Explore Sault, the "Lavender Capital," with elevated views and the mid-August festival (August 15, 2026)
- Tour lavender distilleries for essential oil demonstrations and products
- Drive scenic routes like the Lavender Road for panoramic blooms
4. Follow Van Gogh's Trail in Arles & Roman Ruins
Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserves exceptional Roman amphitheater, theater, and forum. It's also where Vincent van Gogh lived and painted iconic works in 1888–1889.
History: Founded as a Roman colony in 46 BC by Julius Caesar, Arles became a major port and administrative center. The arena (90 AD) hosted gladiatorial combats; Van Gogh produced over 300 works here before his breakdown.
- Explore the Roman Arena (still used for events and bullgames)
- Follow the Van Gogh walking trail to sites like the Yellow House and Starry Night café
- Visit the Roman Theatre and Baths of Constantine
- Stroll Les Alyscamps necropolis, painted by Van Gogh
- Enjoy the vibrant old town and nearby Camargue wetlands
5. Marvel at the Pont du Gard Aqueduct
This stunning 2,000-year-old Roman aqueduct, a UNESCO site, spans the Gardon River with three tiers of arches—an engineering marvel in a scenic natural setting.
History: Built around 19 BC–50 AD as part of the Nîmes aqueduct system, it carried water 50 km from Uzès springs to Nîmes. It remained functional until the 9th century and was restored in the 18th–19th centuries.
- Walk across the top tier for panoramic views
- Swim or kayak in the Gardon River below
- Visit the on-site museum for Roman engineering exhibits
- Enjoy hiking trails and picnic spots around the site
- Attend summer concerts or light shows
6. Hike & Boat the Calanques near Cassis & Marseille
The dramatic limestone inlets of Calanques National Park (France's first coastal national park, 2012) offer turquoise waters, towering cliffs, and pristine hiking trails along the wild Mediterranean coast.
History: The Calanques were formed over millions of years by erosion; human presence dates to prehistoric times with cave art nearby. They were quarried for stone in antiquity and became protected for biodiversity.
- Take boat tours from Cassis to access hidden coves
- Hike trails like Sentier des Calanques to En-Vau or Sugiton (permit required in summer)
- Swim in crystal-clear bays and snorkel
- Visit Cassis harbor for fresh seafood
- Explore from Marseille for urban-coastal contrast
7. Wine Tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape & Côtes du Rhône
Provence's bold reds and crisp rosés shine in the Rhône Valley—visit legendary appellations for tastings, vineyard views, and Provençal gastronomy.
History: Viticulture dates to Greek and Roman times; Châteauneuf-du-Pape was papal summer residence in the 14th century, with popes promoting winemaking. The 13-grape blend tradition began here.
- Taste iconic Châteauneuf-du-Pape reds in historic cellars
- Explore Gigondas, Vacqueyras, or Tavel (rosé specialist)
- Join guided vineyard tours and tastings from Avignon
- Pair wines with local cheeses, olives, and truffles
- Visit during harvest season (September) for vibrant atmosphere
8. Experience Provençal Markets & Cuisine
Provence's vibrant outdoor markets burst with fresh produce, olives, cheeses, herbs, lavender products, and crafts—perfect for picnics, souvenirs, or immersing in local life.
History: Markets trace to Roman forums; weekly traditions persist, with Aix and Arles famous since medieval times. Provençal cuisine emphasizes olive oil, herbs (herbes de Provence), garlic, tomatoes, and seasonal ingredients.
- Browse Aix-en-Provence's daily market on Cours Mirabeau
- Visit L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue's famous antiques and food market (Sundays)
- Sample specialties like bouillabaisse, ratatouille, tapenade, and pissaladière
- Try rosé wines and local goat cheese
- Attend cooking classes or farm-to-table experiences
9. Stroll Cours Mirabeau in Aix-en-Provence
Aix, Paul Cézanne's hometown, charms with elegant fountains, plane-tree-lined boulevards, art museums, and sophisticated vibe—a perfect base for exploring central Provence.
History: Founded as Aquae Sextiae by Romans in 122 BC for thermal springs. It was Provence's capital until 1486. Cézanne lived and painted here; the city preserves his legacy through trails and studio.
- Stroll shaded Cours Mirabeau with its cafés and fountains
- Visit Atelier Cézanne (his preserved studio)
- Explore nearby Château La Coste art estate and winery
- Admire Mazarin Quarter's 17th-century mansions
- Enjoy vibrant markets and Provençal cuisine
10. Visit Les Baux-de-Provence & Carrières de Lumières
This dramatic hilltop village ruins overlook vineyards, while the nearby quarries host stunning immersive art projections at Carrières de Lumières.
History: Les Baux was a medieval stronghold of the Lords of Baux (11th–17th centuries), with a turbulent history of sieges. The castle was destroyed in 1632. The quarries, mined since antiquity, became an art venue in 1976.
- Explore medieval castle ruins for panoramic Alpilles views
- Experience immersive digital art at Carrières de Lumières (Picasso + Frida Kahlo from February 13, 2026)
- Wander the troglodyte dwellings and historic streets
- Enjoy nearby olive oil tastings and Alpilles scenery
- Visit in evening for dramatic lighting
Disclaimer: Information reflects popular attractions and trends as of March 2026. Always verify current opening hours, ticket availability, events (e.g., Festival d'Avignon July 4–25, 2026; Carrières de Lumières exhibitions), and entry requirements before visiting, especially for seasonal experiences like lavender or festivals.