10 things to see in Provence
Wild moors, enchanting fairy-tale villages, and charming seaside craft stores—Provence has it all! Located in southeastern France, this region stretches along the Rhône River, offering some of the most diverse and stunning landscapes. From the mountainous areas of Upper Provence to the vast olive groves and vineyards of Lower Provence, each part has its unique allure. If you’re drawn to the coast, you’ll find crystal-clear waters, golden sandy beaches, hidden coves, and hills that provide breathtaking views of the sea. The best times to explore the region are in spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the small villages come to life.
In contrast, summer presents a different side of Provence, filled with art and vibrant events.
In this article, we recommend must-see places for your next trip: get ready, as Provence is waiting for you!
Avignon, the City of the Popes
Avignon captivates visitors with its rich history and legends, from the Palais des Papes to the Pont Saint-Bénézet. The city’s past is both lengthy and tumultuous, particularly during the 14th century when the papacy relocated from Rome to Avignon. This move led to the construction of the Palais des Papes, which is now the largest Gothic palace in Europe. A short walk from the palace will take you to Notre Dame Des Doms, the city’s cathedral. It’s easy to identify due to the golden Virgin perched on its bell tower, said to protect Avignon.
The legend of The legend of the Point-Saint-Bénézet captivates all tourists who discover it. This famous bridge spans the Rhône River, connecting Avignon to Villeneuve-lès-Avignon. According to the tale, an angel commissioned a shepherd named Bénézet to build the bridge to bring prosperity to the town. Although initially skeptical, the ruler challenged him to prove his strength by throwing a heavy stone into the river. To everyone’s surprise, Bénézet succeeded, and thus the bridge of Avignon was born! Today, only four of the original twenty-two arches remain, yet it continues to be one of the most astonishing sights in all of Provence.
In the summer, Avignon becomes a vibrant city, full of life thanks to its numerous events and festivals. If you love theater, don’t miss the Avignon Festival, where the entire city transforms into a stage, bursting with theatrical performances, dance, and live music. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Île de la Barthelasse, the verdant island
Île de la Barthelasse is the largest river island in France, spanning 700 hectares of lush forests comprised of white poplar, willow, and maple trees. Here, you can cycle through orchards and vibrant French vineyards along well-marked bike paths—truly a paradise for a cycling vacation! You can choose to relax on the green lawns and take in the stunning views of Avignon, or explore some of the island’s historical sites, such as the Distillerie Manguin. Claude Manguin originally founded this distillery by cultivating fields of peach and pear trees, which were used to produce distinctive flavored spirits. The new owners have preserved this tradition, and today, you can’t leave Île de la Barthelasse without trying OliGin, a delightful olive gin!
Pont-du-Gard, a masterpiece of Roman architecture
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pont-du-Gard is the tallest aqueduct in the world. Its arches rise majestically over the Gardon River, creating some of the most breathtaking scenery in southern France. Surrounded by olive trees and vineyards, you can stroll along the Mémoires de Garrigue, a path that leads you to the hidden corners of this remarkable aqueduct. For those interested in the history of its construction, the Musée du Pont du Gard offers an engaging experience suitable for visitors of all ages, including children. The museum features activities that immerse them in the fascinating world of ancient Rome.
If you’re not yet convinced, the atmosphere at the Pont-du-Gard in summer is truly unique and will surely win you over! Perhaps it’s the chance to swim in the Gardon River, or maybe it’s the stunning light projections that illuminate the structure every night—who can say for sure? If you’re in doubt, be sure to bring your swimsuit along!
Vallabrègues and Barbentane, villages with authentic charme
While they may be lesser-known, Vallabrègues and Barbentane are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Durance rivers, Vallabrègues is a charming village that showcases traditional French character. Here, you can still observe local artisans creating wicker baskets, a unique craft of the region. The Musée de la Vannerie et de l’Artisanat offers an interactive basket-making workshop where you can experience this craft firsthand.
In August, for just two days, the village hosts the Fête de la Vannerie, a European craft festival. During this celebration, the village streets come alive with colorful hanging baskets, and locals dress in traditional attire while singing and playing typical Provençal music.
Barbentane is a must-visit if you want to experience the genuine atmosphere of Provence. Its flower gardens, lively small streets, and imposing castle (unfortunately closed to the public) are captivating at first glance!
Arles, a city immersed in art
If you love art, be sure to visit Arles. This charming town, known for its stunning sunset colors and delicious cuisine (don’t miss trying the Provençal paella!), captivates visitors with picturesque views, bistros, and cafés that inspired Van Gogh in some of his most famous paintings. At the heart of Arles stands the ancient Arena, where gladiator fights once took place, and the Roman Theater, which, while perhaps not as well-preserved as the Arena, offers a unique atmosphere when hosting concerts and events.
A short walk will take you to the Cathedral and Cloister of St. Trophime. Just admiring the exterior is a fascinating experience. You will be greeted by a portal adorned with numerous sculptures depicting scenes from the Last Judgment, showcasing Hell on one side and Heaven on the other. The cloister, with its beautiful arches, columns, and biblical sculptures, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Outside of Arles, you can visit Montmajour Abbey, a remarkable site surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery. Here, you can witness one of the locations that inspired Van Gogh in his artwork. Viewing its grandeur at sunset will help you understand why it captivated him!
From July to September, Arles hosts Europe’s most important photography festival: the Rencontres d’Arles. Expect nightly screenings at the city’s theater, exhibitions, and expert discussions on photography. Don’t miss this incredible event!
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, in the footsteps of Van Gogh
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a place of discovery. You can choose to explore it in a traditional way or make your visit more engaging by participating in a treasure hunt. The goal is to follow the small plaques scattered throughout the town, marking the locations that inspired Van Gogh during his time here. This was the period when the artist was most productive, making it a thrilling experience to retrace his steps.
At the Musée Estrine, you can wander through rooms that celebrate Van Gogh’s art. Meanwhile, the Monastery of Saint-Paul features a recreation of the room where he was confined. This was the asylum where Van Gogh committed himself for mental health reasons. During his stay, he created around 150 canvases, including some of his most famous masterpieces, such as “Starry Night.”
Les Baux-de-Provence, a village carved into the rock
Located further south, Les Baux-de-Provence is one of the most beautiful villages in France. Carved into the rock, its charming stone alleys and artisan shops give it an ethereal quality. The castle dominates the village and serves as a veritable open-air museum; visitors can explore the keep, ancient towers, and the remnants of a mill that was once used by farmers to grind grain. Walking through this village feels like stepping back in time!
A highlight of the area is the Carrières des Lumières, a former limestone quarry that now showcases stunning projections of various works of art. On its white walls, you can view masterpieces by renowned artists ranging from Van Gogh to Monet. This experience is sure to captivate your heart.
Aigues-Mortes and Camargue, a journey through salt marshes and wilderness
Aigues-Mortes boasts vast expanses of pinkish salt marshes and vibrant artisanal shops that bring life to the old town, perfectly capturing the essence of the Provençal spirit. The city’s fortified walls and ramparts provide a stunning bird’s-eye view of both the town and the surrounding salt marshes—this spectacular panorama is a must-see on your itinerary!
Additionally, you should not miss exploring the unspoiled Camargue. With its wild landscapes, bull farms, and iconic white horses, this region will captivate you at first sight. Be sure to indulge in a tasting of local wines before you leave; you won’t be able to resist falling in love with the Vins de Sable!
So, what are you waiting for? Come and discover our bike and boat trip in Provence, and join us as we explore this beautiful region!1 Travel tip in Provence
