+33 768 800 684
contact@myprivatefrance.com
Contact Us |
Loading your cart...
Your cart is empty
Items in your cart
0
Your cart is empty
Your cart is empty
The Provence region conjures up images of lavender fields, picturesque old villages, and scenic coastlines. This historical province in the southeast of France stretches from the lower river Rhône to the border of Italy. To the south, it is bordered by the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
This diverse landscape includes the vast plains of Camargue, the elegant French Riviera, and the stunning Southern Alps. If you want to spend your days relaxing in sunny France, the peaceful towns of Provence are the perfect place for you.
The historic Provence mostly corresponds with the modern Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur administrative region. It is hard to choose the prettiest towns in Provence, as they all bring something unique to the table.
Here are just a few must-see Provence villages and towns to visit on your sojourn to France.
The walled town of Avignon is one of the best places in Provence for history lovers to visit. This small city is overflowing with historical architecture. Encircled by medieval walls, Avignon holds many gems for the eager traveller to discover.
A large part of the historic town centres around the Place de l’Horloge. This bustling town square is bordered by cafés, restaurants, and houses the 19th-century city hall and opera. It is also one of the venues for the famous annual theatre festival in Avignon.
The enormous Palais des Papes is one of Avignon’s main attractions. This 14th-century palace is a truly impressive monument and one of the largest Gothic buildings in Europe. Other ancient structures to see in this city include the medieval Pont d’Avignon bridge, the Romanesque-style Avignon Cathedral, and the Hôtel des Monnaies with its Neoclassical architecture.
Travel back in time as you wander the cobblestone streets in the shade of sycamore trees, past ancient water wheels and ornate chapels. You can spend your evenings enjoying a theatre play, or a musical performance, or unwinding at a local wine bar.
Arles is known as a city of arts and history. It boasts numerous Roman monuments that are considered UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The warm and bright light of this Provence city drew famous artists like Picasso and Van Gogh, and many of their works are displayed here in museums.
A visit to the prominent Arles Amphitheatre will make you feel like you are in Ancient Rome. This two-tiered structure dates back to 90 AD when it hosted chariot races and gladiator fights. The amphitheatre has been fully restored and you can attend a show or bullfight while you’re in town. You can also find remnants of a Roman theatre, bath complex, and aqueduct in Arles.
Besides its impressive collection of Roman history, Arles also has plenty of cultural attractions. Arles is well known for its photography festival and is home to the French national school of photography.
Several prominent museums are dedicated to traditional and contemporary works of art, as well as photography. You can visit the Reattu museum to see famous works by Picasso, while the Fondation Van Gogh is dedicated to the life and works of the Dutch artist.
Of course, the natural beauty of Arles is what attracted these renowned artists in the first place. The town is located close to the Rhône river and includes five beautiful nature reserves. Take a hike through the Marshes of Vigueirat or the expansive plains of Crau to see a variety of fauna and flora.
Aix is a university town that can offer you the best of Provence’s laid-back country life. Known as the City of a Thousand Fountains, this is the ideal place to go for a stroll and discover the scents and colours of Provence.
The Old Town of Aix-en-Provence is filled with small squares, 18th-century mansions, and charming cafés just waiting to be discovered. Mirabeau is a popular place for merchants to set up their stalls. Take the time to browse flower, fruit and vegetable markets against the backdrop of sparkling fountains and ancient trees.
Aix also has its share of historic and artistic attractions. The Saint-Sauveur cathedral is a fascinating mix of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. You can also find a historic town hall, castle, and churches located throughout the town.
The Post-Impressionist artist Paul Cézanne was born in this city. Many of his works depict the beautiful Aix countryside, and you can admire his paintings at the Musée Granet or at his former studio.
Aix also offers a wide range of cultural events, from the International Opera Festival to a contemporary dance showcase. It is a place of serenity for nature lovers and art enthusiasts.
Camargue is not a town but a natural region located to the south of Arles. This vast river delta is one of the best places to visit in Provence if you truly wish to immerse yourself in the countryside of France.
This coastal region mostly consists of lakes and marshes. Although marchlands may not sound appealing, the pink and purple hues of these salt marshes are captivating to see. It also attracts hundreds of migrating bird species, including flamingos.
You can find a few towns and villages scattered throughout the Camargue region. The village of Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is a popular seaside resort. Despite the fact that you can find plenty of restaurants, hotels, and entertainment here, the village maintains its authentic character and traditions.
Aigues-Mortes is a fortified medieval town situated on the Rhône canals. Explore this blend of old and new as you wander past the ancient walls towards the collection of lively shops in the town centre. You might even see some of the guardians, the Camargue cowboys, on their unique horses indigenous to this region.
Provence truly is the perfect getaway destination in France. Its combination of scenic landscapes, historic buildings, and Mediterranean climate makes for a relaxing travel experience.
These are just some of the towns and villages you can explore while you’re in the French countryside. Provence is sure to stir your soul and ensure that you never want to leave.
Request your own custom itinerary of France! Free, fast & secure. Designed by our passionate Pro Local Guides.
Private Tour France – My Private France is specialized in designing custom itineraries for couples, families and groups of friends visiting France.
We curate private walking tours of France, day trips to the most beautiful locations; we arrange private wine & cheese tastings, shopping sessions and photoshoots with real professionals. We also provide amazing museum tours for art lovers, first-timers, and kids alike!
Would you like to venture out of the city with us? We can create a custom tour for you, tailored just to your liking. One of our fantastic Paris day trip tours is sure to satisfy all of your travel needs!