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The Ultimate 7 to 10 Days in the South of France Itinerary

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Planning a south of France itinerary is one of the highlights of visiting this incredible country. France is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe and, although many visitors will stay in Paris, plenty head down to spend 7 to 10 days in the south of France to soak up the sun on the pristine beaches, visit the stunning mountain ranges or learn about French culture on a city break.

A south of France itinerary can be extremely diverse, taking you to all of the above, or allowing you to pick and mix as you please. Whichever stops you end up choosing, you’re sure to have a fantastic holiday surrounded by lush natural areas, historic locations or beautiful city centres.

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How Many Days in the South of France?

To explore the whole of the south of France, from the Atlantic coast of Bayonne to the Mediterranean principality of Monaco , you would need at least two weeks to freely explore each wonderful town and city en route without rushing. However, to enjoy the Mediterranean coastline and its neighbouring cities, towns and quaint villages, 10 days in the south of France is ideal.

Although, if you want to concentrate your stops in one area, such as Languedoc-Roussillon or Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, you can spend a very pleasant 7 days in the south of France, without spending too much time on the road. 

Part of the fun of a south of France road trip is seeing the sights from a car window and stopping when your interest is piqued by a looming château or spectacular view. So it can be a great idea to plan a few days of activities but leave yourselves a day or at least an afternoon here and there for travelling and taking in the scenery.

Equally, if you prefer not to drive and would rather take trains or buses, you can pack picnics for your journeys and enjoy the views; you may still be on the move rather than on your feet or a sun lounger, but it’s a great way to make the most of every moment of your holiday.

The itinerary for the south of France outlined below covers a range of highlights to be found in the area. However, if you’re keen to dig deeper into various regions, make sure to check out our Provence itinerary or our French Riviera itinerary if you’ve already decided where you want to go.

Getting To & Around the South of France

Driving tends to be the best mode of transport to get around the south of France, as you’re then free to move around according to your own schedule, and there are many free (or at least cheap) places to park to be found in most cities and towns across the country.

All of the airports and city centres will have rental car companies where you can find various vehicles for reasonable prices, although it’s advisable to book in advance to guarantee you get the car of your choice.

The French have an expression that roughly translates to “there may not be work, but there are always roadworks”, so if you’re planning a south of France road trip itinerary outside of the summer months, it’s useful to have Google Maps open to have live traffic information for your journey so you can take alternative routes where necessary.

However, from June to September, as both French and foreign tourists travel around the country, there tend to be very few problems on the road, and you can almost guarantee excellent road surfaces to make your car journeys significantly more comfortable.

What’s more, the south of France has an excellent reputation for hitchhiking, so if you’re feeling adventurous and have a loose schedule for your trip to the south of France, this can be a great way of travelling around and getting some insider information about the hidden gems. Just make sure to follow safety precautions.

Getting to the south of France in the first place is also very simple as there are many airports located all along the south.

There are major airports in Toulouse, Montpellier, Marseille and Nice, so you can start your journey easily from any of these cities, although you can also arrive from the UK and other neighbouring European countries in the smaller cities of Carcassonne, Nîmes, Avignon, Aix-en-Provence and Toulon. You can book airport pickups here.

Each of these cities also has excellent public transportation, so you can visit much of the south of France by train. However, if you’d like to spend time in more rural villages and historic sites, there may not be trains and only a few buses each day, so having your own car is definitely advisable.

Most of the stops on our southern France itinerary will be well-known towns and cities that can easily be accessed by train or bus, but there are a couple of more out-of-the-way destinations that will be harder to reach without a car. So try to choose the best stops for your own south of France itinerary accordingly. You can view train and bus schedules here.

7 to 10 Day South of France Itinerary

From cities and towns to lakes and villages, our southern France itinerary will show you the best that France has to offer, without spending too long on the road so you can make the most of the bright sunshine, bustling streets and beautiful landscape.

Day 1 – Toulouse

Toulouse is a great place to start your 7 days in the south of France, as the airport has excellent connections to major European cities like London , Paris , Amsterdam and Munich , without being so busy that you spend your whole first day waiting at border control.

You can rent a car from the airport to start your road trip, or take the tram into the city for just a few euros and arrive in the centre ready to explore.

The centre of Toulouse has a wonderful large square lined on one side by the beautiful pink and white building Le Capitole that houses the town hall and the theatre of Toulouse.

This square is a great welcome into the city, leading off into winding streets full of boutiques and restaurants showing off the famous red brick of the region and the amazing cuisine.

You can wander around the city and discover the other incredible red brick structures like the Saint-Sernin Basilica and the Jacobins Convent with its enormous stained glass windows and occasional evening light show on the exterior façade. You can also  organise a walking tour  or  a food tour  if you want to learn more about the area from a guide.

The Canal du Midi also flows through Toulouse, as does the River Garonne, which provides a lovely place for an afternoon stroll, admiring the Occitan architecture, sunbathing on the steps leading to the river and sipping a cocktail on one of the floating bars. Plus, if you look closely under the Pont Neuf, you can spot one of James Colomina’s curious little red statues…

As a city, you can find plenty of places to stay within Toulouse from budget hotels and B&Bs to luxury apartments. Or, for a more rural gîte, you can head slightly further out of the city to enjoy nature, which is particularly beautiful around the Tarn and Garonne Rivers.

Where to Stay in Toulouse

Hôtel Héliot – Mid-range visitors to Toulouse will love this cool, 3-star hotel. Located in the centre of the city, they have a range of lovely rooms along with a great breakfast on offer in the morning. Click here to check availability

Boutique Hotel SOCLO – This boutique hotel is an excellent option for those after a luxury stay in Toulouse. They have a range of plush rooms to choose from along with an excellent location for exploring all the city has to offer. Click here to check availability

Appartements Design Hypercentre – If you’d prefer to have your own flat while in the South of France, then these apartments in Toulouse are a great choice. They come fully furnished and have a great, central location. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Toulouse hotels!

Day 2 – Carcassonne

Moving further south from Toulouse, you come across the amazing walled city of Carcassonne – the perfect place for a day trip. You can visit independently or go on an organised trip such as this full-day tour or this full-day tour.

Having been occupied since 500 BCE, this land was transformed by the Romans into a walled city which was further enhanced in the 12th century to create the incredible 3 km of ramparts we see today.

You can see the 52 towers rising in the distance as you approach by car, train or plane and the inside of the city takes you back in time with its traditional French shops selling everything from sweets to swords.

In the summer, the city comes to life with jousting tournaments, battle reenactments, opportunities to learn how to write with a quill and ink and people dressed in traditional mediaeval clothing wandering around the city. It’s a great place to visit with the family, but equally interesting for anyone with an interest in history, architecture or French culture.

The highlight of Carcassonne is the mediaeval city, however, there is a more modern town on the other side of the river which has hotels, restaurants and some apartments to rent, so if you haven’t brought your campervan, this is an excellent place to stay.

Day 3 – Montpellier

Moving further south still, we get to the real entrance of the south of France: Montpellier . Located on the Mediterranean coast, the amazing city has everything, from Roman ruins and neoclassical architecture to beaches, parks and exquisite gastronomy.

Visitors can happily stroll around the streets of the city centre, coming across the main square La Comedie, named after the huge theatre on one end, where the locals gather for entertainment, or simply to pass through on their way to work.

A short walk will take you to the magnificent 17th-century Triumphal Arch and stunning 18th-century tiered aqueduct that’s still working to supply the city’s fountains with water.

If that’s not enough to entice you, Montpellier has a fantastic botanical garden, which is the oldest in France, as well as plenty of murals and trompe d’œils dotted around the city streets, making for a wonderful walking tour. You can also easily take the tram around the city if you don’t feel like walking too far, as well as to the enormous beach with wild flamingos nearby.

Montpellier is a large city and has a very popular university so you can find activities for young people around every corner, as well as cheap hotels and apartments so everyone can have the chance to explore this amazing coastal city. Even if you can only stay for 7 days in the south of France, make sure you stop by Montpellier – you won’t be disappointed!

Where to Stay in Montpellier

Hôtel Royal – This 3-star hotel in the centre of Montpellier is a fantastic choice for those looking for a central place to stay in this French city. They have a range of chic rooms to choose from along with breakfast on offer each morning. Click here to check availability

Hôtel Oceania Le Métropole – This chic hotel is an excellent choice for those after a luxury option while staying in Montpellier. They have an excellent, central location along with an array of plush rooms plus many other amenities available. Click here to check their availability

Appart’City Confort Montpellier Saint Roch – If you’re keen for a self-catering option while exploring the south of France, then these apartments are a great choice. They have an array of fully-furnished flats all within easy access of all Montpellier has to offer. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Montpellier hotels!

Day 4 – Arles

Carcassonne and Montpellier were simply appetisers for history buffs, who can now rub their hands in glee at our next destination, the fabulous city of Arles. Arles is a perfectly sized town to wander around the streets and get a glimpse of the Provençal architecture and Roman ruins, namely the spectacular amphitheatre, Arènes d’Arles.

This 20,000 seater, two-tiered arena was built in 90 CE for gladiator fights and chariot races to entertain the locals and had towers added during the mediaeval era and looks unbelievably incredible today.

You can easily spend a few hours learning about the history of the structure or even watching a performance as it now hosts live music, bullfighting and other events in Summer, before heading off to experience the city’s other claim to fame: van Gogh’s house.

Having lived in the city for just a year, Vincent van Gogh created hundreds of artworks during his stay, having been greatly inspired by the natural beauty and pastel colours of the houses. Unfortunately, the house where he resided (and cut off his ear) was destroyed during the Second World War, however, you can visit a museum dedicated to the artist nearby.

Don’t miss out on the amazing and spooky Alyscamps either, with its incredible Gothic sarcophagi on either side of the ancient road leading down to a 12th-century church.

There aren’t lots of hotels within Arles city centre, however, with the Rhône River flowing through the landscape, there are some wonderful campsites and gîtes surrounded by countryside just five minutes driving out of the city. It is also very feasible to continue onto Marseille for the next few nights.

Where to Stay in Marseille

Hôtel Life Marseille VP – Mid-range visitors to Marseille will love this cool 3-star hotel in the centre of the city. They have an array of wonderful rooms to choose from, a fantastic location and plenty of other perks to ensure you have an excellent stay. Click here to check availability

La Residence Du Vieux Port – This luxury hotel in the Old Port area of Marseille is perfect for those looking for a chic and romantic place to stay in this French city. There are plentiful rooms to choose from along with an excellent location for seeing the city. Located in the Old Port area of Marseille, those looking for luxury will love this opulent boutique hotel. Click here to check availability

Vertigo Vieux-Port – Those looking for a budget option or if you’re after a great social atmosphere will love this highly-rated hostel in the Old Port area of Marseille. They have great common areas and self-catering facilities along with both dorms and private rooms available. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Marseille hotels!

Day 5 – Marseille

There’s not much to be said about the oldest and third-largest city in France that hasn’t already been said, and all of the great things you’ve heard about Marseille are true. Founded by the Greeks over 2600 years ago, the port city has seen a great deal of migration from all across the world making it a spectacularly diverse melting pot of architecture, cuisine, culture and religion.

The Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde is a must-see place within the city, and fortunately, you can see it from all around Marseille as it towers high above the otherwise quite flat city.

On the opposite side of Marseille, close to the train station is the equally spectacular but less well-known black and white striped Cathedrale La Major, which looks particularly magnificent at sunrise when the daylight causes the domed roof to glow orange.

A short distance away is the famous fish market and port of Marseille where you can see the fishermen selling their catches, as they’ve done for centuries, and take amazing photographs with the beautiful boats in the fore and the basilica in the background.

It’s possible to spend a few days in Marseille and not get the chance to see everything, so it’s a great destination for a weekend break, but even if you’ve got 10 days in the area, you’ve got to spare one for Marseille – even if it’s just to eat seafood (or take a food tour ) and enjoy the views.

Similar to other cities in France, you can find many hotels across the city for all kinds of budgets, as well as smaller B&Bs in the suburbs.

But there’s great transportation in the city, so rather than driving in, it’s a good idea to leave your car parked by your accommodation and just take a bus in and out of the city when you need to. 

Day 6 – Gorges du Verdon

So far each destination has been easily reachable by public transport, however, it’s more difficult to reach our next stop if you’re seeing the south of France by train. But, the Gorges du Verdon is one of the most breathtaking locations in the whole of France, so if possible, you have to include it on your southern France itinerary.

This 25 km long canyon has been cut out of limestone by the brilliant turquoise Verdon River that reaches down 700 metres at its deepest and is a popular place to take a pedalo or kayak, or go hiking and even rock climbing.

You can travel through the gorge into the Sainte-Croix Lake which was created in the 1970s by flooding the small village of Les Salles-sur-Verdon, later rebuilt on the banks of the lake. You can stop here for lunch in any number of delightful restaurants with mesmerising lakeside views, or bring a picnic with you to enjoy a full day out exploring the canyon and surrounding lakes.

There are several hotels in the village of Les Salles-sur-Verdon and near the small village of Boulogne, on the south side of the gorges, and you can find plenty of campsites surrounding the Sainte-Croix Lake, some with cabins that you can rent if you haven’t got your own tent.

But be wary that the Gorges du Verdon is a very popular place to stay in Summer, so you’ll need to book your accommodation well in advance. Alternatively, continue onto Cannes for the evening, where you can be based for the next few days of this itinerary. There are also a number of other places to stay on the French Riviera that are great choices.

For those who don’t want to make the drive out to the gorge, there are other great options available for this day. You could, for instance, spend another day exploring Marseille. You could also opt to take a day trip to the lavender fields and take in a hilltop village in Provence.

Another great option would be to visit the Calanques du Marseille and the village of Cassis for a gorgeous area very close to the city.

Where to Stay in Cannes

Villa Claudia Hotel Cannes – If you’re on a mid-range budget while in Cannes, then this hotel is a good choice. It has a good location for exploring the city, breakfast is available in the mornings and there is a great garden to enjoy. Click here to check availability

Hotel Splendid – This hotel is a fantastic luxury option for those looking to live the high life while on the French Riviera. They have a myriad of incredible rooms to choose from along with a great location for exploring the city and area. Click here to check availability

La Bastide de l’Oliveraie – Those after a bit of an alternative accommodation option will love these plush suites in Cannes. They have an excellent, central location and there are plenty of rooms and suites available to choose from. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Cannes hotels!

Day 7 – Saint-Raphaël

Back down to the Mediterranean coast, between the picturesque but incredibly busy town of St Tropez and the large and equally popular city of Cannes , is the small yet delightful town of Saint-Raphaël.

With a small harbour, a huge cathedral and beautiful beaches, this lovely little town is a great place to spend a relaxing final day of a south of France itinerary if you’re on a week-long holiday.

The charming town is a wonderful place to wander around, perusing the little shops and soaking up the sun, but during the Summer, the town really comes to life after 7.30 pm with its famous night market! This is much different than market day in other Provençal towns.

Stalls line the boardwalk all evening, selling local products from traditional Provençal soaps and perfumes to sweet treats and jewellery, so after you’ve had your traditional fish soup, anchovy paste, stuffed peppers or Bouillabaisse, you can’t miss out on a wander around the market to bring your 7 days in the south of France to a close.

If you’ve got time, you’ve also got to check out the superb amphitheatre of Fréjus, just a ten-minute drive from Saint-Raphaël centre.

Saint-Raphaël doesn’t have its own airport, however, it’s just a 45-minute drive from Cannes Airport, or 1 hour along the coastal road so you can say your farewells to the Côte d’Azur as you head home.

If you’re staying on, you can find many different hotels and apartments to stay in for the night all along the coast, although as we head into the more glamorous coastline, you’ll notice the prices can jump up quite a bit from other properties on our itinerary.

Day 8 – Valbonne

For your eighth day in the south of France, it’s time to head away from the coastal towns and cities to experience life in a small village, and there’s none better than Valbonne.

Just north of Cannes and Antibes, you can easily reach Valbonne by car from Saint-Raphaël, or if you’re travelling on public transport you can take a bus from Cannes to Valbonne for just a few euros.

This little village may lack big landmarks and resorts, but it’s bursting with character, with charming cobbled streets leading you around the village, from quaint squares to historic churches.

This style of architecture and tiny community nestled into a valley surrounded by wilderness is archetypal of the area, so a must-visit place for anyone looking to get away from the busy cities and tourist-filled beaches to get a glimpse into the real south of France.

There are a number of wonderful places to eat, including Auberges, serving traditional dishes using produce sourced directly from the surrounding countryside to heighten your experience of rural French life. You can stay in the village, but there are only two hotels, so you’ll want to book well in advance if you want to stay overnight.

However, the large city of Cannes is not far away so there will be much more choice of hotels, as well as gîtes and B&Bs dotted around the countryside if you prefer to stay in a more rural location.

Day 9 – Nice

After a day in the countryside, it’s time to get back into the city, and one of the French Riviera’s most unmissable cities has to be Nice .

With its bustling city centre full of designer shops, boutiques, restaurants, bars and nightclubs, you won’t be short of things to do as you walk from street to street, under the intriguing street lamps. But Nice isn’t your average city.

As you head out of the modern centre, you can come across the delightful old town, with more traditional boutiques and eateries, and you can even visit one of the first Russian Orthodox Cathedrals built in France, the beautiful Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice.

With its intriguing shape, red brick exterior, turquoise domed roofs and pointed turrets, it may be small but it’s well worth visiting while you’re in Nice – just remember to wear long sleeves and trousers to be allowed entry.

You can also walk up the Colline du Château to see the ruins of an old castle and a beautiful waterfall as well as have incredible views over the whole of Nice.

There’s plenty to do in the city for all ages and interests, as well as accommodation for all budgets in the city centre and further out in the suburbs. You can also  organise a walking tour  or  food tour  if you prefer to explore with a guide.

Where to Stay in Nice

Nice Garden Hotel – This is a great mid-range hotel in Nice to round out your south of France trip. They have a number of lovely rooms to choose from along with a great location within easy reach of the Promenade des Anglais. Click here to check availability

Palais Saleya Boutique hôtel – If you’re looking for a luxury hotel while in Nice, then you can’t go wrong with this lovely place. They have a number of delightful rooms to choose from along with plenty of amenities to ensure you have a great stay. Click here to check availability

Aparthotel AMMI Vieux Nice – Located in Old Nice, these apartments are a wonderful choice for those keen for their own space in this coastal metropolis. They have a number of great flats, all equipped with everything you may need for your stay. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Nice hotels!

Day 10 – Èze

Nice Airport is the best place to fly out of the south of France if you’ve come along the south coast from west to east, and fortunately, it’s not far from the wonderful village of Èze, which makes for a remarkably relaxing final day of your holiday.

Simply wander around the picturesque village with cobbled streets and stone houses, stunning views over the Mediterranean and the nearby millionaire’s playground that is Monaco.

Or, take a free tour of the renowned Fragonard perfume factory before heading to a cliffside restaurant to enjoy your final plat du jour and a crisp local vin blanc before heading home.

Have More Time?

If you have more than 10 days , there are plenty of other highlights to stop in en route.

Stop in one of the only papal seats outside the Vatican in Avignon to explore the Pope’s Palace, the famous destroyed bridge Le Pont d’Avignon and the nearby Pont du Gard for a day before visiting Arles, or continue your journey along the French Riviera to the flash principality of Monaco to see how the other half live or try your luck in the famous casino.

Or if Roman history piques your interest, stop by the incredible city of Nîmes near Arles to see a 2,000-year-old Roman amphitheatre that gives Arles a run for its money, as well as its perfectly preserved white Roman temple La Maison Carrée.

En route from Carcassonne to Montpellier, you can also stop for a day of hiking and art in the community of Mayronnes to walk along the impressive 6 km long sculpture trail – but bring plenty of water with you as it can get very hot, especially in the height of summer.

Whether you take a south of France road trip or see the south of France by train, there is plenty to do across the whole region for all interests. Over a week or 10 days in the south, you’ll get to experience some amazing food, architecture and natural areas that will surely have you aching to get back as soon as your feet are off French soil.

Are you visiting the south of France? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Brittany is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Colchester, England, she is slowly but surely travelling the world as a digital nomad. She loves to hike around different landscapes and has a deep love for travelling around France (and elsewhere in Europe).

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Ultimate South of France Itinerary: Provence + French Riviera

Home to everything from sprawling lavender fields to hilltop towns to fishing villages to the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, it’s no wonder that traveling through Provence and the French Riviera is a dream trip for many–and this south of France itinerary makes it easy to enjoy the perfect trip.

We absolutely love exploring southern France and have enjoyed a handful of road trips, train trips, and more throughout the region.

We designed this south of France itinerary for first-time visitors to the region who want a little taste of everything that Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur has to offer, from the cobblestone streets of the Luberon Valley to the glamour of Nice’s promenade.

Hoping to visit southern France and find yourself overwhelmed with village names and potential places to visit?

This south of France itinerary is for you !

Table of Contents

Where Exactly is Provence?

Getting around during your trip to southern france, how long does this south of france itinerary take, south of france itinerary note: pay attention to market days, the complete south of france itinerary, more time in southern france, where to stay in the south of france , getting to provence-alpes-côte d’azur, south of france itinerary map, best time to visit the south of france, what to pack for the south of france.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

When planning a trip to the south of France, Provence is often the first region that comes to mind–but what exactly is Provence, anyway, other than an endless collection of photos of blooming lavender fields?

Short version: Provence is part of the French administrative region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, which is located in southeastern France.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur is then divided into six subregions, whose names you’ll probably notice around you as you work through this south of France itinerary–Vaucluse is one example.

The bulk of this recommended south of France itinerary takes place in what is colloquially known as Provence (the southern and western part of the region).

The d estinations mentioned toward the end of the trip like Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Paul-de-Vence are located along the Côte d’Azur–aka the French Riviera–in the eastern part of the region.

While the cities and towns visited throughout this south of France itinerary are generally walkable (even Nice !), you will likely need a car to get between them.

In a pinch, you can certainly complete this itinerary with a combination of buses, trains, and booked tours, but that would be far less efficient than a road trip!

A few tips on driving in southern France: budget generously for gas and tolls, book your lodging each night with the parking situation in mind, and rent the smallest car you possibly can.

We cover our tips for driving in France a lot more thoroughly in our broader France road trip guide , so be sure to check that out before taking off on your trip to southern France !

To book your rental car for the south of France, we recommend checking prices, inclusions and availability via Discover Cars .

They’ll search both local and international brands that have available cars, and allow you to compare prices, reviews, and inclusions side-by-side.

Shop rental cars for your trip to the south of France today!

We’ve structured this South of France itinerary with the assumption that you’ll be spending roughly 2 weeks in the region, and the number of days noted by each city is the minimum number of full days that we recommend spending in each spot.

In other words, when you pull into town at 7:00 PM, that doesn’t count as a “day” in the destination on this suggested route.

That’s not to say you couldn’t stay longer–you absolutely could!

Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur is an immense region that is absolutely packed with things to do, from strolling past lavender fields to perusing markets to going on adventurous hikes to relaxing on the beach, and so much more. 

There’s truly something for every interest here–and then some–so be prepared to start plotting your return visit by the halfway point through your trip!

If you have less than 2 weeks in the South of France, we recommend narrowing your focus to either the Cote d’Azur or Provence, rather than trying to squeeze both destinations into your limited time.

Perusing the open-air markets of the villages of Provence is an iconic part of any trip to the region–so make sure to structure your South of France itinerary so you don’t miss the best ones!

Most markets are open 1-3 days/week and different markets focus on different things.

Some will be about food, and others will be French flea markets/brocantes that focus on textiles, clothing, or antiques.

If you manage to time it right, on Thursdays Aix-en-Provence has three markets in town at once, so you can get the perfect experience all in one spot.

Avignon: 1 Day

Once the home of popes, Avignon is the perfect place to kick off your south of France itinerary.

Spend the day exploring the town, hitting up the impressive Papal Palace, the Pont d’Avignon, and the Les Halles Market in between wandering the streets and marveling that you’re finally in southern France!

If you have time, also consider ducking into one of the other beautiful art museums in the city.

If you’d like to get out of town for a bit in the afternoon, the 2,000-year-old Pont du Gard aqueduct is incredibly impressive and only a 30-minute drive from Avignon.

Luberon Valley: 2 Days

Ah, the Luberon Valley: this is the area that tends to come to mind immediately when someone says the word “Provence”.

All hilltop villages and rolling countryside filled with lavender fields, the Luberon Valley is absolutely stunning and a must-visit on any Provence itinerary.

It also happens to be one of our favorite corners of France and one that we love to visit repeatedly!

Be sure to visit the town of Bonnieux for some of the best views over the valley, Gordes for its impressive location built into a hilltop, Fontaine-de-Vaucluse for its lovely spring and river, Roussillon for its majestic red cliff, and Goult for its understated and quiet beauty.

Other favorites include Lacoste for its picturesque views, Menerbes for its delightful charm (if you ever read A Year in Provence , this is the town!), and Lourmarin for its idyllic beauty.

That’s merely the tip of the iceberg, of course: Sénanque Abbey and Isle sur Sorgue are just a couple of the other spots that might hold your attention during this section of your south of France itinerary.

You probably won’t have time to visit all of those–but the great thing about exploring the Luberon Valley is that going slow and savoring the journey is half the fun anyway.

Depending on how fast you tend to go and how much each village captures your heart (okay, and how much French wine you indulge in at lunch), you can comfortably visit 2-3 villages a day.

The Alpilles: 1 Day

The first two towns on your list in the Alpilles?

Les Baux-de-Provence, often considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, the former home of Van Gogh and a bit of an artistic enclave.

Both towns are absolutely lovely, but in our biased opinion, we do think that Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is slightly prettier than Les Baux-de-Provence .

However, w e do recognize that the views from Les Baux-de-Provence themselves are top-notch !

While you can whip through these highlights in a day if needed, outdoor enthusiasts–especially hikers and bikers–might prefer to set up shop in the Alpilles a bit longer.

We enjoyed Saint-Rémy-de-Provence so much the first time around that when we later returned to southeast France, we based ourselves there for almost a week!

It’s a beautiful, conveniently located place that makes an excellent addition to any France trip.

Aix-en-Provence: 1 Day

The gorgeous city of Aix-en-Provence is known for its beauty, its accessibility–this is a great place to base yourself for part of your southern France trip–and most importantly, its markets.

I’m not exaggerating when I say that the markets in Aix-en-Provence, which sell everything from flowers to fruits to fedoras, are some of the best that we’ve ever seen.

We have loaded up our backpack more than once on shopping extravaganzas here!

Though Aix-en-Provence does have daily markets, to see the markets at their biggest and best, plan to spend a day here on either a Thursday!

Tuesday and Saturday are great backup options.

Cassis + Calanques National Park: 1 Day

The adorable fishing village of Cassis is a delightful addition to any south of France itinerary.

Much smaller and prettier than nearby Marseilles, Cassis is also the perfect jumping-off point for visiting Calanques National Park.

And, w hether you want to go for a hike or simply take a boat tour past the beautiful calanques, visiting this stunning part of the French coastline is a must !

While you’re in and around Cassis, be sure to also check out to picture-perfect Port de Cassis, visit the (extremely accessible) Calanque de Port Miou, and admire the views from the Cap Canaille.

Valensole Plateau + Verdon Gorge: 1 Day

Of all the suggested stops on this south of France itinerary, this one is probably the most anticipated for many summer visitors.

T he Valensole Plateau is the iconic home to those never-ending lavender fields pictured on tourism brochures around the world !

Sure, the Luberon Valley also has stunning fields, and they’re definitely worth seeing–but in Valensole, be ready to pull your car over nearly constantly, because every field seems to be more gorgeous than the last.

Early July is considered the absolute optimal time for enjoying the lavender fields on the Valensole Plateau, though late June, the rest of July, and maybe the very beginning of August can work as well.

That being said, we have visited the Valensole Plateau outside of lavender season as well, and while it’s certainly not as magical as it is when the lavender is at its peak, it’s still a striking and beautiful part of Provence.

After you get your fill of snapping photos, head to the Verdon Gorge, home to cascading cliffs, turquoise water, the nearby Lake of Sainte-Croix, some incredible hiking, and–again for summer visitors specifically–excellent kayaking and rafting.

Though I’ve noted you can see the major sites of the area in one day here, like in the Alpilles, photographers and/or outdoor enthusiasts will probably want to spend at least a couple of days here if at all possible .

Saint-Paul-de-Vence: 1 Day

Perched high above the Mediterranean Sea along the Cote d’Azur, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is one of those destinations that we expected to enjoy but quickly move on from, but in actuality knocked us off our feet and charmed us completely.

For that reason alone, I can’t resist adding a day here to this suggested itinerary for the south of France!

Come here for a delightful combination of all the things that makes the south of France so charming , from the delicious food to the winding stone streets to the sublime views.

S tand on the medieval walls of the town, and you’ll be smitten with the views of the countryside and sea.

Stroll through the tiny cobblestone streets of the village, and you’ll feel like you’re back in the Luberon Valley.

Sit down for a fantastic French meal on a stunning terrace, and you’ll immediately feel all the glitz and glamour of the Cote d’Azur.

Oh–and definitely grab a cup of coffee at the cafe just outside the town walls.

The coffee is merely average (by impeccable French standards, anyway), and I wouldn’t take chances on the touristy food, but it’s worth sitting down just to see if the adorable corgi who passes through regularly happens to come by!

Nice + The French Riviera: 3 Days

There’s no better place to close out your south of France itinerary than soaking up the sun along the French Riviera.

As the largest city in the region and home to a good airport, glamorous Nice is the obvious final stop for your south of France trip.

That being said, it certainly doesn’t need to be your only destination along the French Riviera!

Antibes is another great option for a base in the area, and of course trips to places like Menton, Eze, and Monaco are all fabulous ways to spend a day.

(For travelers who happen to be visiting in the offseason, look up Menton’s February lemon festival !).

Of course, if all you want to do with the final days of your south of France vacation is lay on Nice’s famous beach, we certainly can’t blame you for that!

Be sure to at least make time for a quick stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, admiring the view from Castle Hill, and lunch spent diving into a plate of Nicoise salad.

If you have significantly more time than the south of France itinerary outlined here suggests, we would recommend doing one of two things.

Option 1: Beaches

With more time in southern France, you can’t go wrong with s pending a lot more time along the French Riviera, especially if you’re visiting during the high season.

Highlights like Saint-Tropez, Cannes, and Antibes would be a great place to start, but there are endless gorgeous small towns and rural beaches to choose from in the region.

Option 2: Small Town Vibes

Prefer to dive into the slower pace of village life for a few days?

After wrapping up this itinerary, pick your favorite place–maybe a tiny village like Lourmarin, maybe a city with plenty of day trip options like Aix-en-Provence, your choice–and settle into Provencal life for a while, savoring your experiences and slowly soaking up everything that makes southern France special.

The most important thing to keep in mind when deciding where to stay in the south of France?

Limit your changes in lodging.

Packing and unpacking your belongings, loading and unloading the car, checking in and out of your hotels and/or apartments… all of these things take up more time than you might initially think.

Even as European road trip veterans of sorts, we still got too excited when planning our most recent trip to France and booked ourselves into an itinerary that moved around too much–and we paid for it in exhaustion.

We’d recommend only changing lodging every 2-3 days at the absolute maximum, and structuring your trip to the south of France as a series of day trips taken from various bases instead of actually sleeping in each location.

I’ve outlined some popular, well-reviewed, and well-located options in two of the most popular bases visited during this south of France itinerary: Aix-en-Provence and Nice.

That being said, we highly recommend basing yourselves at least once in a smaller village , too!

We’ve stayed in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Lourmarin and absolutely loved our experiences in both.

Aix-en-Provence

Séjours & Affaires Aix-en-Provence Mirabeau — This is where we stayed when visiting Aix-en-Provence, and we loved it!

These studio apartments are within walking distance of central Aix-en-Provence and all its best markets, have access to affordable parking across the street, and are very clean and comfortable.

They’re not particularly charming, and the vibe is very “could be a modern hotel anywhere in the world”, but they absolutely get the job done for a budget or even mid-range traveler visiting Aix-en-Provence.

Having the kitchen was a huge benefit for us (especially after visiting the markets in Aix-en-Provence), and we’d be happy to stay again.

Check rates & book your stay at Séjours & Affaires Aix-en-Provence Mirabeau!

Les Quatre Dauphins — Located in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, Les Quatre Dauphins boasts light and bright decor–this is the kind of hotel that you dream of when booking a trip to the south of France!

Street parking is available nearby, and everything you could hope to visit within the center of Aix-en-Provence is at your fingertips when staying at Les Quatre Dauphins.

Check rates & book your stay at Les Quatre Dauphins!

La Maison d’Aix — This converted townhome makes the perfect luxury boutique hotel in Aix-en-Provence!

Boasting impeccable reviews–especially for the breakfast, cleanliness, and customer service at the hotel–luxury travelers will love both the creature comforts and central location of La Maison d’Aix.

Check rates & book your stay at La Maison d’Aix!

Boutique Hôtel Neptune Nice — This small hotel in central Nice is perfect for travelers hoping to stay (somewhat–Nice is pricey!) on a budget while still keeping themselves within walking distance of Nice’s best highlights.

Rooms are small, but customer service is wonderful! The hotel is known for its impeccable location, and you can’t go wrong staying here on your south of France trip!

Check rates & book your stay at Boutique Hôtel Neptune Nice!

Le Dortoir — Featuring near-perfect reviews and a crisp, bright interior, Le Dortoir is an excellent option for visitors to Nice who want to enjoy a spacious hotel room… without Nice’s top-end luxury prices.

From Le Dortoir, you’ll be able to reach all of Nice’s highlights on foot, and its fabulous customer service ratings mean that you’ll be able to ask for advice on just about anywhere you want to go!

Check rates & book your stay at Le Dortoir!

Hotel Negresco — If you’ve seen photos of the French Riviera, there’s a good chance you’ve seen photos of the iconic Hotel Negresco, with its tiled dome and bright white facade.

This is one of the most famous luxury hotels in France and has built up quite the storied history (and held a number of famous guests) since it opened in 1913–and it’s also a whimsical and wonderful place to stay today.

Located right along the Promenade des Anglais, a stay at the ever-popular and unique Hotel Negresco is not something you’re likely to forget anytime soon.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Negresco!

The two biggest airports in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region are Marseille and Nice, and you can easily fly into either to start your trip to southern France.

If you fly into Nice, consider completing this south of France itinerary in the opposite order that I’ve written it.

Alternatively, check the prices of flights to Geneva (on one of our trips to France, we flew into Geneva, spent a few days in the delightful city of Annecy , and then drove to Avignon to start exploring Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur) .

And, of course, there’s always Paris!

You can easily take a train from Paris to Nice, Marseille, Avignon, or Aix-en-Provence, but be sure to account for that cost and travel time when planning your southern France itinerary!

Shop train tickets from Paris to the south of France today!

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

Each season brings with it a reason to visit the south of France!

Unlike many other places, though, traveling during the high (read: summer) season here comes with enough advantages that unless you’re entirely allergic to crowds and high prices, I’d recommend planning your trip then.

Here are some quick pros and cons of completing this south of France itinerary in each season.

Summer is the best time to visit the south of France if you’re hoping for a classic trip.

The lavender fields will be blooming (July is the best time to aim for, though you might be lucky and still find some fields in early August), the beaches will be warm and lovely, and the sun will (most likely) be shining.

The downsides?

Everyone else also thinks this is the best time to visit the south of France, so prices will be high and crowds will be large.

While you’ll experience a bit more rain than in the summer, fall can be a lovely time to visit the south of France if you’re looking for reduced crowds and prices while still experiencing quite a bit of sunshine and some lovely markets.

Except for perhaps in the very early fall during a hot year, though, you likely won’t want to swim during this time of year, and of course, there won’t be any lavender around.

Winter is very quiet in the south of France, and if you visit during this time, expect to find some businesses (including accommodation) closed.

Winter definitely isn’t an ideal time to be experiencing this south of France itinerary, but if cold weather and closed businesses are a worthy trade for rock-bottom prices and a lack of crowds, winter might be an option for your trip!

Plus, as a bonus, Provencal Christmas traditions (and markets!) are lovely.

We love the south of France in the spring, and would happily visit in the spring again.

Spring brings increased sunshine and temperatures, and businesses start to wake back up after the long winter. 

Spring is also an excellent time of year to be exploring Provencal markets, something that we have taken full advantage of when visiting during this time of year.

And sure, there isn’t lavender, but you do get to enjoy wisteria, which is the next-best thing!

If you come during spring, though, pack for varying temperatures, and definitely bring plenty of layers to guard against the viciously cold mistral winds that whip through the region during this time of year.

Books About the South of France — What’s better to add to your packing list than a book about the region you’re visiting?

Provence in particular has spawned countless novels and memoirs–if you’re looking for an excellent starting point, Peter Mayle’s A Year in Provence is a classic.

Travel Insurance — We don’t ever suggest traveling without insurance–anything can happen anywhere, and this is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

We use and recommend Safety Wing for trips to the south of France.

Travel Adaptors for France — If you’re coming from outside of Europe, you’ll definitely need adaptors for your electronics.

Pacsafe — We can’t recommend our Pacsafe enough: this travel safe is affordable, sturdy, easy to pack, and will help keep your valuables safe in your hotel room (not that you should need to worry much about theft in France, but it’s better to be safe than sorry!).

Bring a small pack of tissues, toss them in your day bag, and you won’t have to worry about it.

Having these saved me more than once during our last trip to France!

Tote Bag — Trust me: you’ll want a very sturdy reusable bag with you when you visit Provencal markets!

Hand Sanitizer — We’ve never been sorry to have this floating around in our day bag.

Swiss Army Knife — Want to open wine bottles in your hotel room, slice cheese from the market, or cut up that baguette from the bakery?

You’ll be so glad you brought a Swiss Army Knife along for your south of France vacation!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

42 thoughts on “Ultimate South of France Itinerary: Provence + French Riviera”

This is such a great guide! I love that you added books about the South of France as well. My husband & I just relocated to Amsterdam and we are planning a trip here for early July. Do you have any 2020 specific tips or anything you think might be closed or different?

Thank you so much, Mercedes! I wish I could offer some 2020 specific advice, but everything has been developing and changing so quickly that it’s hard to predict from one day to the next! Outdoor dining and activities will definitely be your best bets, but luckily, that’s generally where you’ll find the best of southern France anyway!

I loved reading this! I do have a question for you. I am interested in going to the South of France but would like to stay in a house or villa that we would use as home base, but do day trips to various areas. Is this possible to do? if so what area would be the best to stay? I am just starting my research and I was so happy to come across your blog. Any input or advice would be so appreciated. Right now I am thinking around 10 days but could extend a little if necessary.

Yes, that would absolutely be possible, and in fact is a great way to see the area. You can’t day trip everywhere from one base, but you can sure see a lot!

Personally, if I were renting a villa I’d look somewhere in the Luberon Valley, so near villages like Gordes or Bonnieux. From there, you can reach the southern coast (we highly recommend Cassis in the surrounding area) on a day trip, as well as the Valensole Plateau, Avignon, Aix en Provence, etc.

If you also want to see Nice and the immediate surrounding area, you’d want to move into different lodging for that. 🙂

Thank you so much Kate for getting back to me. You have now given me a starting point in planning my trip! I will be in touch as I plan! I am happy that I stumbled across your site.

Love your travels. We follow your travels and learned much from you when we did the 3-week family trip to the Czech Republic, Austria, Germany and Italy in summer of 2019. (Family of 4 with two college-age boys) Thank you. Scratch last year, ugh…

Question.. How do you think things are looking for an August 2021 visit to the south of France and Barcelona? Using Aix as a home base while in France. Splitting 2 weeks up between Provence and Barcelona… (a little of each) thx

Thank you so much, Kevin! So glad we could help a couple of years ago.

I wish I knew exactly what the situation was going to look like in August–it seems likely that some travel will be open by then (both France and Spain have mentioned a desire to open to vaccinated tourists this summer), but as for what that will look like, no clue.

I’d recommend booking things with as flexible as cancellation policies as possible. I’d also only recommend booking one country right now–whichever is your priority–and then giving it another couple of months to see how easy it will be to travel between the two (will you need to test or isolate, etc).

Anecdotally, borders just officially opened between all Spanish regions for Spanish residents and citizens this week, and France is experiencing a notoriously long and expansive list of restrictions. Could things be 100% normal by then? Maybe, but I’d bank on a contingency plan or two.

A bit long-winded, I know, and will likely be dated advice within a week, but that’s the best I can offer now! On a personal note, we’re planning to visit Europe this summer but stick to one country for ease/to limit the risks of things going wrong… at least that’s the plan as of today!

Hi, We are American citizens visiting Portugal and plan on flying to Nice (early July) to see French Rivera from there. Do you think things are opening up? Thanks,

I wish we knew! Things are definitely more open than they were a couple of months ago, but I’d say it’s still a bit of a gamble to plan on a trip to two countries right now. In theory, there’s supposed to be more news from the EU on this front June 7, but we’ll see!

Hi Kate, I really enjoyed reading your post. We are planning a trip to southern France (flying into Nice) in mid-July for our long-awaited honeymoon! We have about 2 weeks. What are your thoughts about 5 days in the French Riviera, 5 days in Provence, and then 3 days in Paris. Does this seem too rushed? I know you suggested 14 days in Provence and the French Riviera but we’ve never been to Paris! Thanks 🙂

That sounds lovely, and congratulations on your marriage! Your itinerary will leave you tired at the end, but it’s definitely realistic. 🙂

I’d recommend basing yourselves in one place in each the French Riviera and Provence to cut down on travel days that will eat into your exploring, aiming to only stay in 3 hotels/rentals during your honeymoon.

If you haven’t read it, we highly recommend checking out our 3 days in Paris itinerary as well: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/3-days-in-paris-itinerary/

Hi Kate! I loved discovering your site! My husband and I are fully vaxed and can’t wait to start travelling overseas again! Lots of missed celebrations…so our first planned trip is to France in September, I grew up there and can’t wait to share it with him. We’re driving from Paris south, areas I want to specifically hit; Bordeaux, Nice/Cannes & Montpellier and then driving back to Paris. We have two weeks, would love to get some route& sightseeing suggestions from you. Merci!

Thank you so much, Crystina!

Sadly we haven’t been to Bordeaux or Montpellier yet (hopefully soon!). Nice is fantastic–we highly recommend visiting Eze and Vence when in the area as well. Both are gorgeous small towns with excellent views. I’m not sure if you’re planning inland at all, but the Verdon Gorge is incredible and is a couple of hours from Cannes.

You are covering a lot of ground in two weeks, especially with Paris too. If you’re only planning on visiting the city of Bordeaux, you may want to consider taking the fast train from Paris to Bordeaux and then from Bordeaux to Montpellier to speed things up, and then only rent a car in the southeast. Just food for thought!

Hello, this is simply superb, thank you very much for sharing this. This is exactly the itinerary I plan to follow next month, and I just have one question. I know you have mentioned Aix-en-Provence and Nice as two potential bases for the itinerary but I understand that may not be enough (i.e. not everything in your itinerary can be done has day trips from these 2 bases alone), and you also seem to have suggested 2 days in Luberon valley. So can you suggest a list of all the places we should use as our bases (overnight stays) so that we can cover all these places and yet not be packing/unpacking every other day? Many thanks in advance.

Hi Ricardo,

It really depends on your personal tastes–some people prefer to move around, and others prefer to stay in one base. For the Luberon Valley, all the major towns such as Gordes and Roussillon have beautiful places to stay, but you’ll want to book in advance as they’re mostly small, boutique properties. We personally explored the Luberon from a base of Aix-en-Provence.

Thank you Kate, much appreciated.

Hi We are thinking of spending 1 week in Lyon and 1 week in Porto to relax and at the same time visit the sights in and around in Sept/Oct 22. Do you have any suggestions for some can’t miss day trips from Lyon? Thank you

Sounds like a wonderful trip!

From Lyon, I highly recommend a day trip to Annecy! Here’s our post on it: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/things-to-do-in-annecy-france/

Dijon is another great option, though I haven’t had a chance to visit yet.

So helpful! My daughter will be doing a course through SCAD in Lacoste in December and I will join her around the 15th to travel a bit before she comes home. I know it is not the best time of year, but excited to go anyway. I am wondering if you have a “1 week don’t miss” version and anyway to print your itineraries. Thank you!!

December may not be a traditional time to be in Provence, but it is lovely!

I’d consider skipping the Riviera and sticking to the areas surrounding the Luberon Valley since you’re short on time and visiting in winter.

Be sure to seek out the Christmas markets–a fun bonus of a winter trip. I know Aix-en-Provence and Avignon are supposed to have lovely ones, and I’m sure the smaller cities and towns will have plenty too.

Sadly I don’t have a printable version of our itineraries yet, but I hope to create them in the future!

My family would like to spend one month in South France visiting beautiful villages! Where would you suggest for us to base and in how many locations? Could to suggest some of the villages to visit? Is Spring (June) a good time or Summer is a better season?

Thanks and much Appreciated for your help!

Hi Han! Sounds like a wonderful trip.

June is a wonderful time to visit Provence, but I’d aim for the end of the month and into July if you want to catch the lavender fields at their best.

For a month, I’d probably base yourselves for 2 weeks in one of the villages in the Luberon Valley (or Aix-in-Provence if you prefer more of a city feel), and half in one of the cities on the French Riviera!

Hello, What a great source of information-so very helpful in planning our trip which begins in Avignon on July 31. Would it make sense for us to stay between Luberon Valley, Valensole and Verdon Gorge so that we have a single base while visiting both of those areas before we head down to Nice? If so, can you recommend a particular town or inn? Second question, it sounds like we may miss the lavender fields in bloom! If that is a highlight of those areas and there is so much to see elsewhere too, should we skip Luberon Valley since we are already squeezing quite a lot in?

Thanks so much, Mimi!

You can use one base in a pinch, but that’ll mean a lot of driving each day. I’d recommend maybe one base in the Luberon and then one between Valensole/Verdon Gorge.

The Luberon Valley is a stunning place, and I personally think it’s absolutely worth visiting with or without lavender! As a silver lining, if the lavender is gone some of the crowds will disperse also. 🙂

I love and admire your site and insights. I will be part of a group of 8 women, arriving in Paris in October for one week. We’d like to head visit the small towns/villages of the south of France. Do you have a one week recommendation that begins and ends in Paris, in October? We’ve been thinking of perhaps hiring a van and driver. Thank you so much. Ellen

Hi Ellen! Unfortunately, I don’t, but off the top of my head, I’d consider maybe Paris – Luberon Valley – Paris.

It’d be a busy itinerary, but the Luberon Valley has a high concentration of darling Provencal villages so you can see several in quick succession.

If your group is comfortable with it, I’d look into potentially taking a train from Paris to Aix-en-Provence or Avignon and then hiring a driver for the Provence portion.

Alternatively, if you drive down, you could add a day in the Loire Valley (a bit out of the way but beautiful) or even a lesser-visited city like Dijon.

Hope you guys have a wonderful trip! France with girlfriends sounds delightful.

Hello Kate Thank you so much for the detailed itinerary. I am meeting my daughter in Paris and plan to travel via train to Nice and hit some of your highlighted spots in reverse. We would like to end in aix-en-Provence and possibly Avignon. See as much of the French Riveria as we can then head towards Avignon. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Hi Dominique! Near the French Riviera, hilltop towns like Eze and Saint-Paul-de-Vence are well worth adding in to mix up beach towns if you’re looking for great views. I also wouldn’t miss the Valensole Plateau as you’re heading toward Aix-en-Provence if you’re visiting during summer/lavender season.

Hello Kate, Thank you for such a helpful article! Great info! We will be coming from the U.S. in Sept. & only have 18 days, including travel, for France & Sicily. We were thinking of flying in to Paris (assuming cheapest, easiest), only staying1-2 night there. Really not interested in the city (no doubt fun, but save for another time). Would really only care to see Eiffel Tower at night, if that, on this trip. Planned to then drive to southern France & fly out of Nice to Sicily. Mainly wanted to see cute small towns & pretty scenery, not into the big cities for this trip. Several questions. Would you just skip Paris & fly into another city, or not that big of a deal to start there & drive, or take a train from Paris to the south & then get car? Sounds like we would like to be sure to see Aix-en-Provence, Gorge, Eze & Vence. Is that all doable from one location, or see part from Nice, as I imagine will need to stay there a night or two to be in the area to catch a flight out. Last, how many days would you choose for France & how many for Sicily? Also, enjoyed your Sicily blog! Obviously not enough time to see both in detail, but thought we could get a basic overview & know if there was somewhere we want to return with more time. Thank you so much for your thoughts!

Sounds like a magical trip–we actually flew from Nice to Sicily ourselves the first time we visit, and it worked out great.

If you’re not interested in seeing Paris on this trip, I’d definitely recommend checking flights to Nice as well, as that will save you time. If you do end up flying into Paris, definitely don’t drive to Provence/the Riviera, but instead book the fast train from Paris (probably to Aix-en-Provence). It’s much faster! However, book tickets in advance as prices for high speed trains increase as the date of travel gets closer.

Aix and Nice are both pretty big–not Paris big, but definitely small towns. For small towns I’d recommend the Luberon Valley–truly gorgeous and very typically “Provencal”. It’s where Gordes is as well as places like Bonneiux, Lourmarin, Roussillon, etc.

I’d think of that area–Aix + small Provencal villages–as a separate section from the Riviera. You’ll want one base there, and the one base on the coast.

Vence and Eze are both easy day trips from Nice, but if small towns are what you’re after, you may consider staying in one of them instead of Nice!

With 18 days you have some flexibility. I’d give Sicily a week minimum–with that timeline, you can cover the east coast (Taormina, Siracusa, etc.) at a pretty leisurely pace and enjoy some beach time!

Hope you guys have a fantastic trip! September is such a beautiful time to visit. 🙂

Hi! I love your site. I am having a hard time deciding where to go. I am a single woman and always travels solo to major cities like Paris, Rome etc. This time I want to go to the south of France but not sure the best way to do that if I am traveling solo. I will be in Paris then want to go to the South. I went to Cannes as a child with my family but obviously this trip will be different. I’d like a few beach dates where I can swim in the ocean, sit under an umbrella (basically being catered too lol) and then go out to fun dinners, walk around, shop (love antique markets etc.) Can you help me narrow it down if I am there for one week? Should I rent a car by myself or is that not recommended? Is it scary driving the roads? I also don’t want to do too much traveling and instead chill in a few cities and talk it all in!

Your help would be awesome. Oh, I’m thinking early/mid September…

I think you’ll definitely be able to find what you’re looking for.

Scary driving is a matter of perspective of course, but for confident drivers, the Riviera isn’t too bad! If you want to stay in only a handful of locations and have a more leisurely trip, though, you probably don’t need a car.

Most of the major beach towns/cities will have what you’re looking for, including Nice. You may want to look into Menton, too!

The hill towns about the Riviera are excellent for wandering around, restaurants, etc, but of course, you’re missing the beach.

Basing yourself in Nice and taking day trips (on non-beach days!) to places like Eze, St-Paul-de-Vence, Monaco, etc, might suit you perfectly.

Hello Kate, I’ve really enjoyed reading your blog posts about all your wonderful travels. My husband and I are looking at going to southern France for a week or two in July 2023. … Celebration of my 70th birthday and my wedding anniversary in 45 years. We were looking at an Airbnb in La Ciotat. Is that a good place to stay to have opportunity for day trips? We also considered staying in Provence for a few days too. Is there somewhere you would suggest. We can get another Airbnb or a hotel. Someone suggested Avignon, but wondered if outside the city would be better. We will rent a car. WE are novice travelers to France and are really seeking guidance on our first journey. We just dont want to do a river cruise or a tour group really.

Happy Birthday and Anniversary! France sounds like a fantastic way to celebrate both. 🙂

We haven’t stayed in La Ciotat, but it looks darling (its reputation is for being a bit quieter, which can make a nice base) and is fairly close to Cassis, which we love: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/things-to-do-in-cassis-france/

For day trips right around the coast, it will undoubtedly work. I’d also recommend looking into a boat trip around the Calanques!

If you want to spend time both on the coast and inland, I’d recommend choosing a second base as well.

For a more classic Provence feel with small farming villages, lavender fields (July is a great time to catch the blooms!), etc, we can’t recommend the Luberon Valley more highly. Villages like Gordes, Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Roussillon, etc, are an absolute delight, and the fun of the region is driving between them and visiting several in one stay.

Avignon makes for an excellent base as well, as do the villages near the Alpilles (we adore Saint-Rémy-de-Provence), but the Luberon is the most classic option.

All of the inland places I just listed are within day-tripping distance of each other, though, so you don’t necessarily have to pick and choose.

The absolute best lavender fields are over at the Valensole Plateau, which is a bit of a drive but worth it if you want to see the biggest fields.

Hello Kate, I’ve really enjoyed reading your blog posts about all your wonderful travels. My husband and I are looking at going to southern France for six days in June 2023. … We are doing the River Rhine cruise and decided to visit southern France after the cruise. We should be arriving in Nice on the 26th of June. We were thinking of staying in Nice and visit the surrounding areas and then going to Provence region before flying back to California. Do you have any recommendations for hotels we can check out for the two areas and also if there are any small tour groups (no river cruise 🙂 ) you think would be good to use since we do not have a lot of time this time around.

That’s a beautiful time to be in southern France–it’ll definitely be busy, but not quite the peak summer crowds of July and August yet!

We have recommended hotels for some of the most popular places to stay in the area under the “Where to Stay” section above, including Nice! Hotel Negresco is the most iconic choice for its history and location alone.

If you’re looking for a small group tour, I’d look for day trips to the Luberon Valley area, probably leaving from Aix-en-Provence or perhaps Avignon. If you’d like to see several of Provence’s most iconic villages without driving, it’s a fun way to do so! We’ve always driven ourselves, but if we were planning to book a day trip like that, we’d look on Get Your Guide, which we use regularly.

thank you for the wonderful blog! I am definitely going to Provence this spring/summer and already imagining sounds, colours and vibes of the beautiful villages and small towns that you described. I am thinking, is it possible to arrange a multi-day round trip in Province, to avoid renting a car? There are lots of half-day or full day trips, but some round one lasting for few days would be perfect, like we did in Scotland. What is, in your opinion best alternative to renting a car? Thanks& enjoy your trips in 2023!

I’m sure they exist, though I’m not personally familiar with any! Rick Steves, for example, has a tour that touches on Provence but it doesn’t really focus on it.

If you search “Provence small group tours”, that’s where I found the results I think you’re looking for (as opposed to “Provence tours” that mostly suggests day trips). I can’t personally vouch for any of the companies that pop up in those results, though.

All of that being said, if there’s not a particular reason (not confident driving, etc) that you want to avoid a rental car, you will undoubtedly spend less and have more flexibility by driving yourself!

Driving in Provence is fairly simple–GPS directions work well, and you park outside the historic centers so you don’t have to worry about driving on tiny roads.

Hope you guys have a fantastic trip!

Hi Kate, We are going to Provence and the Riviera for a short 5 days. I would love to see best of both. I’ll be arriving in Avignon around noon on the 20th July and thinking of staying in either Saint Remy or Bonnieux or anywhere in those regions that make it easy to see the main villages and possibly fit in a hike. I would love to see a vineyard and maybe olive grove/mill and thinking of heading to either Aix en Provence or Cassis for the afternoon of 22nd. I see there is a vineyard/olive mill near aix so could go there is that makes more sense. Hoping to do the boat ride in calanques probably morning of 23rd and then head to Nice as a base until 25th…. Late flight at 10pm that day. It would be helpful if you can help me figure out the best route to take and where to base myself in Provence. Worried it’s too busy in Avignon and Aix with the festivals.My husband loves Rose wine so hoping to do a tasting wherever possible. Only have to do one vineyard. We have a 13 year old so have to really balance all the activities. Probably some watersport beach time in the riviera.

Hi Kinnari,

Honestly I think that’s a very long to-do list for 5 days, so I’d recommend cutting back where you can!

If you’re not too particular about which villages you see in Provence, I’d consider focusing your time there around the Luberon Valley, as you’ll be able to see several different villages fairly quickly.

From there, you can head down to Cassis, spend most of the 23rd there, and then drive to Nice for the night, which gives you the 24th and maybe part of the 25th on the Riviera.

I’d only prioritize Avignon and Aix if you want to see them in particular–they’re lovely places, but if you’re hoping for a smaller village feel with hiking options, I don’t think they’re worth prioritizing on this trip.

We have 14 days in Provence /south of France Fly in and out of nice We want to go to Gordes de Vernon Aix de Provence Avignon Arles Moustiers Luberon villages Cassis Antibes at the end We want to do wine tastings and markets Is it a good idea to spend 3 or 4 nights in a few places to use as base Thanks

Hi Maureen,

Yes, that definitely works! I’d probably choose 3 bases in your case, to give yourself enough time in each surrounding area while also not having to travel too far for day trips.

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Only South of France Road Trip Itinerary in 7 Days You’ll Ever Need

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The South of France is simply perfection. It is a destination that truly entices your senses. Hints of lavender and handmade soap fill the air, tastes of cheeses and jams at the market delight the tastebuds, and even the views of hilltop villages and sun-drenched beaches will leave you breathless. And the best way to experience it is with a South of France road trip itinerary!

If you’re currently planning a trip to the South of France, you’ve probably realized by now that this area of the world has SO much to offer. This definitely makes creating a plan for 7 days in Provence tricky. 

However, after countless hours of research and dreaming, I have created a perfect 7-day South of France itinerary including stops in Avignon, the villages of the Luberon, Aix-en-Provence, Cassis, Cannes, and Nice that you’re 100% going to love. How do I know that? 

Well, I was just there and enjoyed the heck out of it. And yes, it is all super doable in just 7 days. So sit back, relax, dream of sunny days and rosé, and let’s get into it. 

What is Provence?

You’ve likely noticed above that I have used both “South of France” and “Provence” interchangeably. Well, Provence, or Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, is a region in the southeast of France well-known for its Mediterranean beaches and lavender fields. 

It is also referred to as the South of France, especially among English speakers, even though it is not the only region that is in the south. 

Now, to break it down further, Provence is made up of 6 departments, which are administrative departments. These include Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Hautes-Alpes, Alpes-Maritimes, Bouches-du-Rhône, Var, and Vaucluse. 

In this Southern France itinerary, we’ll be visiting Vaucluse, Bouches-du-Rhône, and Alpes-Maritimes departments. 

Summary of the Ultimate South of France Itinerary in 7 Days

For a quick reference guide, here is a breakdown of where to go during a South of France road trip!

• Days 1-2: Avignon & Chateaunuef-du-Pape
• Day 3: Drive the Villages of the Luberon to Aix-en-Provence
• Day 4: Aix-en-Provence and Cassis
• Days 5-6: Cannes
• Day 7: Nice 

For more details of all the things to do in the best Provence itinerary, keep reading below! 

Only 7-Day South of France Road Trip Itinerary You’ll Ever Need

From charming villages to a chilled-out beach day, let’s talk about how to have the best South of France Itinerary in 7 days! 

Days 1-2: Avignon and Châteauneuf-du-Pape

To start your Southern France itinerary, Avignon is always a great idea . Steeped in history, this city is a lovely spot to base yourself for exploring the town and nearby area. 

Then, because you’re in the Southern Rhône wine region, you’ve got to visit Chateauneuf-du-Pape! 

Day 1: Avignon & Pont du Gard 

For your first day, arrive in Avignon . Now, the easiest way to get to Avignon is via train. So, depending on where you’re coming from, you can easily take the train from Marseille or Paris. We spent 2 days in Paris beforehand, so we took the 2.5-hour train to Avignon. 

PS- Avignon is a great weekend trip from Paris too!

FYI- There are 2 main train stations in Avignon. The Avignon Centre Railway Station is just outside the city center. The Avignon TGV Railway Station is an 11-minute drive southwest of the city. 

This is super important to know because you’ll be renting a car in Avignon for your South of France road trip itinerary, so choosing the right station is key. Most car rental companies are located at the TGV Railway Station. 

Trust me, I made this mistake and had to Uber over to the correct station to get my car. 

Alright, once you’ve picked up your rental car, it is time to head into Avignon! 

On your first day in Avignon, the best thing to do is to wander around the old city. Have lunch at Cafe Saint-Jean with views of the square and the lovely Saint-Jean Tower. 

Pop into shops around the old city, including Autrefois , with local treats like nougat and callisons, and explore squares like the Place de l’Horloge , before hopping back into your car to visit Pont du Gard . 

Pont du Gard is about a 30-minute drive from Avignon and is a must-see. This is an ancient Roman aqueduct that crosses the Gardon River. Step back through time at this first-century bridge that was used to carry water to Nîmes. 

This is a stunning area where you could spend a couple of hours walking down by the river, watching the kayakers float by, or you can even cross the bridge! 

Okay, you aren’t actually walking on the ancient structure, but rather on another bridge next to it. But you certainly get close! 

There are also ample hiking trails in the area and even a prehistoric cave. It is well worth spending the rest of the afternoon here before driving back to Avignon for dinner and drinks. 

And for dinner and drinks, definitely head to La Mirande . This 5-star luxury hotel is like stepping right into the Downtown Abbey drawing room. At least that is what it feels like when you have a seat at the salon with a handcrafted cocktail. 

Start with some dinner here at La Salle à Manger . Yes, you could eat at their Michelin-starred restaurant instead for their tasting menu, but if you don’t want to spend too much money, you can enjoy eating à la carte from La Salle à Manger. Trust me, it is just as delicious. 

Enjoy onion soup and delicious mackerel before heading to the bar post-dinner. 

The bar is the coziest spot for a drink with paintings on the wall, plush, 19th-century couches, and even a little fireplace. It is a delightful place for a martini and to wrap up the first day of your 1 week in the South of France. 

Day 2: Avignon & Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Fun fact: did you know that the popes used to live in Avignon? From 1309-1376 the popes lived in Avignon instead of Rome due to civil unrest. 

So, as you can imagine, they needed a place to stay. That is when the Pope’s Palace came to be. Construction began in 1335 and today you can visit this magnificent palace. 

I actually recommend purchasing a pass that includes the Pont de Benezet (or the Pont d’Avignon), Pope’s Palace , and the gardens. Then you can spend a few hours exploring these places. We purchased our passes at the Pont de Benezet.

After that, head to Les Halles to pick up provisions for dinner or some lunch. This massive indoor market has everything from meats and cheeses to fresh produce and wine. 

Then, in the afternoon, it is time to get picked up for your wine tour of Chateauneuf-du-Pape .

We loved this tour as it visits 2 wineries and you learn a lot about the making of this wine, the wine of this region, and more. 

Plus, Chateauneuf-du-Pape literally translates to the New Castle of the Pope. It is named after the castle built for the second of the popes in Avignon: Pope John XII. 

During the tour, you’ll visit a couple of wineries as well as visit the ruins of the castle. It wraps up that evening, and then I recommend winding down your day with some cheese and wine that you picked up at the market earlier. 

Where to Stay in Avignon: 

There are so many great places to stay in Avignon. We stayed in this Airbnb complete with its own kitchen, comfortable bedroom, and a washer/dryer. However, if you wish to stay at a hotel, these are great options:

Budget: Regina Hotel

Mid-Range: Aux Augustins

Luxury: Hotel La Mirande

Day 3 of Your Provence Itinerary in 7 Days: Driving the Villages of the Luberon

Today is a transition day from Avignon to Aix-en-Provence. And while you could just drive straight to the next destination, now is the perfect time to really take in the villages of the Luberon during your 7-day Provence road trip! 

So grab a quick coffee and croissant before driving through the Luberon Regional Natural Park to see some of the most beautiful villages in France. Seriously, there is even an award called “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France.” A couple of towns that you’re visiting today have this award. 

Of course, this area is also well-known for its lavender fields that bloom from mid-June through mid-July. So if you come during this period, expect some more crowds but also stunning lavender. 

But, even outside of the lavender season, this area is gorgeous. We visited in early October and had a great time driving through dreamy villages and enjoying a local market. 

Now there are plenty of stunning villages to drive through here, but, a must-see spot has to be Senanque Abbey . This abbey was founded in 1148 AD by Cistercian monks and is still a working abbey. 

It is gorgeous to visit on its own, but again, during the lavender season, this place really shines. It is surrounded by lavender. 

After the abbey, definitely check out Gordes . There is a lovely lookout spot for taking photos, but pass through the village or even stop at their market if you’re driving there on a Tuesday. This place was awarded one of the most beautiful villages in France, so it is worth a stop! 

Then, as it was a Saturday when we were driving the Luberon, we went to Apt specifically for their Saturday farmers market. Honestly, we were so impressed. It was so much fun to walk around, sampling jams, chutneys, cheeses, and sausages. 

We purchased so much just from this market including cheese, nougat, jam, handmade lavender soap, and more. Take some time here to grab essentials for a picnic lunch or just fill up at the market itself. 

FYI- Check out market days ahead of time while planning your itinerary. We chose to visit Apt for the market on Saturday, but there are markets all over the Luberon villages open on different days of the week. 

Also, many of these markets close up shop around 12:30 pm or so, meaning you’ll want to get there by at least 11:30 am to really take it all in. 

After Apt, it is time to hop back into the car and drive to another awarded beautiful village in France: Roussillon. Unlike other villages with limestone architecture, this place is red, orange, and yellow thanks to the ochre-rich cliffs. 

Wander in the village before walking along the Ochre Path to see the mineral-rich soil up close. There is a hiking path that is both 35 and 50 minutes long. 

Up next is Bonnieux , where you’ll stop in to try some rosé at a local winery: Chateau la Canorgue . This estate has free wine tastings and is just stunning. 

Then, definitely head to Lourmarin (another Plus Beaux Village winner) to see the Chateau de Lourmarin before stopping at Chateau Constantin for another tasting (drink responsibly, of course!). 

Then, last, but not least, as the day starts to turn into evening, head to Cucuron. This gorgeous little town has a basin lined with trees with ample cafes perfect for people-watching. We also loved the Citadel Tower with views over the little village. 

Once you’ve explored the Luberon, head into Aix-en-Provence for dinner and bedtime. 

Day 4: Aix-en-Provence & Cassis

Wake up and grab some breakfast before exploring the lovely city of Aix-en-Provence. Some highlights here include Cezanne’s Studio and Musee Granet. However, if you’re lucky and happen to be here on a Sunday as we were, it was fun just wandering around and visiting all the markets! 

There was a flower market, antique market, and food market that we visited and took in the scenery! It was also fun just to wander the streets and stop at confectionaries and other shops! 

Spend the morning exploring Aix-en-Provence before driving down to Cassis . 

Grab lunch by the harbor before going on a boat cruise of Calanques National Park . These Calanques are rock formations (typically from limestone) that create a deep gorge in which water from the sea flows. 

There is an option from Cassis to do a boat tour from the harbor with stops at either 3, 5, 8, or 9 Calanques. We ended up doing 5 as that lasted just over an hour (the longest tour is 2 hours and 20 minutes). You can buy tickets at the ticket booth and then go on the tour.

It was really cool to glide into these Calanques and enjoy the views! 

You could also hike to a few of the Calanques from Cassis if you have time. Or, if you want to get adventurous, why not take a kayak tour ? 

However, as we also wanted to explore more of Cassis and have dinner in Aix-en-Provence, we opted for the boat trip. 

After the boat cruise, we wandered around the harbor and ended with some beach time at Plage du Bestouan . 

After that, head back to Aix-en-Provence to explore during the evening before the next stop on your Southern France road trip. 

Where to Stay in Aix-en-Provence:

Aix-en-Provence has so many cute places to stay, including Airbnbs. We ended up staying in this amazing Airbnb that was our favorite apartment of the trip! However, if you prefer hotels, check out these places. 

Budget: Hotel des Augustins

Mid-Range: Renaissance Aix-en-Provence

Mid-Range: Maison Dauphine

Luxury: Villa Gallici

Days 5-6 of Your South of France Road Trip Itinerary: Cannes

Up next is the iconic star-studded town of Cannes ! Okay, there aren’t celebrities there year-round, just mostly during the Cannes Film Festival. 

Outside of that, this is a town of luxury shopping, delicious food, and beach clubs. 

Day 5: Drive to Cannes & Explore

Okay, there are two ways to shape this day during your South of France road trip in a week. The first is to go straight to Cannes and explore , which is what we did. 

We grabbed lunch, window-shopped at luxury stores like Chanel and Louis Vuitton, strolled along the Croisette Promenade as we took in the Mediterranean views, and then we hiked up to the Église Notre-Dame d’Espérance and wandered at a stellar sunset view over the city and sea. 

Then, we wrapped up our day with dinner at Restaurant Mickaella over in the Suquet neighborhood. Honestly, this neighborhood is the place to grab dinner and drinks. The stuff along the harbor is way too crowded in the evenings. This place has such a cool vibe and the restaurants are better. 

If you’re visiting during the lavender season and have the energy, you could make this another road trip day and visit the lavender fields in the Valensole Plateau and stop by Gorge du Verdon for a boat trip. 

Then, you’d end up in Cannes in the evening for dinner. 

Honestly, we were wiped from all the previous exploring (and we weren’t there during the lavender season) so we gave it a skip and went straight to Cannes, but it was in our original plan before having to reschedule our trip to October! 

Day 6: Beach Day in Cannes

Regardless of yesterday’s choose-your-own-adventure, today is meant for resting. The main point of our journey to Cannes was for a beach day. Why? 

While there are tons of great beaches along the French Riviera , Cannes is known for its sandy beaches versus pebbly ones. Plus, I always wanted to try out a beach club. 

So today is the day when you’ll head to a beach club off the Croissette Promenade for the day. Many of these places open up around 10 am and stay open until the evening. We ended up booking a spot at La Plage du Festival . 

And it was super adorable. You head downstairs from the promenade and are met with a colorful cocktail bar, ample seating for lunch, and several beach chairs and umbrellas. During the summertime, chairs go for €40-50+ for the day and include the chair, umbrella, and a towel. 

Luckily, if you show up in the fall, it usually is still warm enough for a swim and it is only around €25 for the day. 

So take advantage of having a beach chair all day and relax, read, go for a swim, have lunch, and get some rosé or Aperol spritzes. 

Then, clean up that evening and have dinner around the Suquet area again before your last day of the best 1 week South of France trip itinerary.

Where to Stay in Cannes: 

This can range wildly in prices as there are ample luxurious hotels. But, here are some based on your budget. 

Budget:  Novotel Suites Cannes Centre

Mid-Range: Hotel de Provence

Luxury: Hotel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes

Day 7 of the South of France Road Trip in a Week: Nice

To wrap up your South of France road trip, it is time to head to Nice. 

Nice is an iconic city on the French Riviera and for good reason. Its architecture is stunning, it has a fabulous market, and you can’t beat the relaxed atmosphere. 

So after a day pampering yourself by the beach in Cannes, why not end by exploring the city of Nice ?

Start off by driving toward the Nice Côte d’Azur airport to drop off your rental car. And even though it adds a bit more time, take the scenic route. There is a road that goes along the coast that you can take (I suggest using Google Maps and selecting that route). 

You’ll pass Antibes, Cagnes-sur-Mer, and more as you head to the Nice airport to drop off your rental car. 

Yes, you could just drop it off when you fly out the next day, but if you have an early flight this could be tricky. Plus, parking in Nice can be difficult so we just saved some money and dropped off the car this day. 

From there, head into Nice to explore. Walk along the Promenade des Anglais along the sea, visit the Cours Saleya Market for last-minute souvenirs and to try socca (a chickpea flour pancake with water, olive oil, and salt), and wander up to the Colline du Château for amazing views over the town and sea.

If you want to keep wandering, there are also cool spots to check out like Massena Square with its light-up statues or the Modern Art Museum. 

Obviously, there is a ton to do here, but if you only have a day, I’d keep it simple with the promenade, market, and chateau. Then, why not check out the beach before dinner? 

Then, it is time to head to bed as you unwind from your amazing South of France road trip itinerary! 

It is hard to leave this part of the world, but this trip will leave you with so many memories. 

Where to Stay in Nice:

Being a larger city, there are plenty of places to stay. Here are a few favorites. 

Budget: Arome Hotel

Mid-Range: Hotel Palais Saleya

Luxury: Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée

Best Way to Get Around the South of France

While this is a South of France road trip itinerary, there are other ways to explore this area. If you want to see smaller towns on your own schedule, though, renting a car is the best idea. 

But, you can also take trains to various cities like Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, Cannes, Cassis, and Nice. 

From there, you could stay and take day trips. Here are a few to check out! 

• From Avignon: Best of Provence Tour
• From Avignon: Luberon Villages Tour
• From Avignon: Lavender Tour
• From Aix-en-Provence: Luberon Villages Tour
• From Aix-en-Provence: Cassis Half-Day Tour
• From Aix-en-Provence: Cassis Boat Ride and Wine Tour
• From Aix-en-Provence: Valensole Lavender Tour
• From Nice: Full-Day French Riviera Day Tour

When to Visit Provence For Your 7-Day Trip

The most popular time to visit Provence is the summer, particularly when the lavender is in bloom from mid-June through mid-July. That is when Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and the Luberon villages will be full of people dreaming of a glimpse of the lavender fields. 

It is also warm and sunny along the beaches, making it a perfect time to swim. 

However, it is also insanely crowded at times. So while late May through August is a popular time to visit, I honestly loved our October trip. 

In October, it is still warm enough to swim most of the time in the earlier part of the month. We had a beach day in Cannes and it was great! We also started to see fall foliage which was charming, especially in the villages. 

Even the winter is much nicer than in northern France, especially along the Riviera. But, I’d say the best time for fewer people and great weather is September-October. 

But, if you’re here for lavender (which I totally understand- we were originally supposed to go for that!), opt for the beginning of July. 

Other Tips For Visiting Provence

Before you book that Provence road trip itinerary, here are some tips:

• Check dates/times of markets. Almost every city and village will have a market. Some are several days a week, while others are once a week. Most of the time they don’t stay open late. The Luberon markets typically wrap up around 12:30 pm. Markets like Les Halles in Avignon close at 2 pm. 
• Enjoy a slower pace. Some days we rushed to see a lot, but on others we relaxed and wandered. Leave room to wander during this trip. Stop at roadside cafes or shops and poke inside. Head to a winery. Pull over near the beach and go for a swim if you wish! Provence is meant to be savored. 
• Pack sunscreen. Provence is a sunny region, so pack sunscreen ! 
• Learn a little French. I’m not saying be fluent (I’m still learning too!), but know a few words/phrases like how to order at a restaurant and ask where the toilets are.
• Always say “Bonjour/Bonsoir.” This is a France travel thing in general. It is important to greet people in shops and cafes with a simple “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir” depending on the time of day. I typically start saying “Bonsoir” after 5 pm.
• Try all the local products! Provence has a plethora of unique products to try including soap, lavender (sprays, candy, syrups-you name it, there is lavender for it), aioli, spices, socca, and more! You may want to leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs. 
• Have fun! Provence is a stunning region full of jaw-dropping views and delightful cuisine. Enjoy every second during your 7 days in the South of France. 

A 7-day South of France itinerary is enough time to really savor Provence. You’ll experience local markets, incredible cuisine, dazzling beaches, and even enchanting towns. What could be better than that? 

Would you visit Provence? What would your ideal South of France itinerary look like? 

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16 thoughts on “Only South of France Road Trip Itinerary in 7 Days You’ll Ever Need”

Thank you for this article I enjoyed reading it and I look forward to those vacation more than ever now

Hi am really keen on going to all these places but how did you go with parking your car in each village. Is it expensive and easy to do . I am going in October too

Hi Davinya! Parking isn’t too bad, especially since you’re traveling in the shoulder season. There are places to park around towns and you’ll either need to download a parking app to pay or pay at a pay station. Some bigger towns, like Aix-en-Provence, even have parking garages you can use as well. Parking wasn’t too bad in price either.

Hello there! I just finished reading your article about a South of France road trip itinerary in 7 days, and I must say, it’s an absolutely stunning and enticing journey through this beautiful region. The South of France has always been a dream destination for me, and your detailed insights and recommendations have left me even more eager to embark on this unforgettable road trip.

Your suggested itinerary for the South of France is well-planned and covers a diverse range of experiences. From the charming city of Nice to the picturesque lavender fields of Provence, you’ve curated a perfect route that captures the essence of this enchanting region.

I loved how you included practical tips for travelers, such as the best time to visit and recommended stops along the way. Your insights on where to indulge in delicious French cuisine and experience the local culture were very helpful.

The inclusion of lesser-known gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions was a wonderful addition. It’s evident that you want your readers to have a well-rounded and authentic journey through the South of France.

The captivating images throughout the article truly bring the destinations to life, making me feel like I’m already on this scenic road trip.

Thank you for sharing such a valuable and inspiring guide. Your article is a fantastic resource for travelers planning a South of France road trip, and I’ll be sure to refer to your tips when I plan my own journey. Keep up the fantastic work, and I’ll be eagerly waiting for more of your travel insights and recommendations!

Thank you! That is high praise! I hope you get to enjoy the South of France soon!

Thank you for sharing this it is very helpful

Hello Kat, my family is planning a trip to the south of France in October 2024. I was wondering what would be the best itinerary for a 2 week trip in car leaving from Paris and returning back to Paris. There are so many beautiful villages in the south and will need advice on the best villages to see and stay. Thanks

Hi Nelson! Have so much fun, the South of France is truly incredible. I would definitely recommend spending 7 days doing this itinerary, but, since you have some extra time, I would recommend spending a couple of days in the Luberon and perhaps staying in a town like Gordes. I also would recommend checking out Antibes and Saint-Tropez if you would like to go to more beach destinations. If you want more smaller towns to enjoy, check out L’Isle-Sur-la-Sorgue for its canals and its Sunday market, Grasse if you love perfume (it’s the perfume capital of the world!), and even Saint-Remy-de-Provence for its architecture and landscapes that once inspired Van Gogh. Since you’re driving all the way to Provence from Paris, you could also spend some time in Dijon and the villages of Burgundy as well as Lyon on the way down and perhaps stop by some chateaux of the Loire Valley on the way back to Paris. I hope this helps and have fun!

Hi, Regarding your comment below- is this accessible by train or is there an easy way to see the bridge without hiring a car?

“Pont du Gard is about a 30-minute drive from Avignon and is a must-see. This is an ancient Roman aqueduct that crosses the Gardon River. Step back through time at this first-century bridge that was used to carry water to Nîmes.”

Yes, it is easiest to see via car. However, you can take the train into Avignon and take Bus Line 115 to Pont du Gard. Timetables can be found here: https://storage.googleapis.com/is-wp-90-prod/uploads-preprod/2023/08/OC-0723-FHliO-30-115.pdf

Hi- is Senanque Abbey or the lavender fields accessible by public transport?

Sadly, this is not available via public transport. However, you could book a tour that stops here. This is a good tour that stops at Senanque Abbey during June and July for the lavender fields: https://gyg.me/UQNw8u9z

Hi Kat, I think you have just sorted out my summer vacation! Thank you so much for the details, pictures and amazing descriptions. I am just wondering how feasible this is to do on a budget and if you have anymore money saving recommendations.

Thanks so much 🙂 x

You’re welcome! You’re going to fall in love with the South of France! It wasn’t too terribly expensive when we went. However, it was in late September/early October. If you can go before peak season of July and August, that helps a bit. Also, instead of renting a car, you could take the train around to the cities and do day trips to places like the Luberon via a tour. Also, there are some B&Bs and hotels that can be found in these places for less money- I like checking for prices on TripAdvisor. Also, you can potentially grab Airbnbs and such too with a kitchen to save some $$$ on dining out every day. I hope this helps and have a great time!

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South of France Itinerary: 7-Day Road Trip Through Provence & the French Riviera

Whether you’re cruising with the top down through the stunning wine country of Provence , or driving through the French Riviera along the sparkling coast (aka “The Côte d’Azur”), southern France is a region you’ll want to absorb every last inch of. But because there’s so much to do and see, planning your South of France itinerary can be quite overwhelming. 

The good news? This guide—which was created as the result of some SERIOUS research prior to my own trip—will be the perfect outline for your road trip through the French Riviera and Provence. Whether you’re planning on spending 7 days or 10 days in the South of France, you’ll find the suggestions below to be the perfect road-trip itinerary for first-time visitors.

It hits every spot you’d want to see: Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, Marseille, Bormes-Les-Mimosas, Le Lavandou, St. Tropez, Nice, Cannes, Grasse, Antibes, Éze, and Monaco .

One thing to note before we dive in: the South of France is meant for exploring and discovering—a little bit of this, a little bit of that, and a whole lot of rosé along the way (not while driving), of course. For me, it definitely felt like more of an “on-the-go” trip than a relaxing vacation. Just something to keep in mind while you’re planning your itinerary.

Here’s an overview of exactly what the quintessential South of France road trip looks like. One of the best travel hacks , in my opinion, is using Google Maps Trip Planner to plot out your own specific itinerary once you decide on it! You can add a ton of additional details and points of interest based on your specific road trip.

Table of Contents

The Perfect South of France Itinerary

How many days should you spend in the south of france.

The length of a trip to the South of France really depends on so many factors: your budget, your time, how quick of a pace you like to move at, where you’re flying in from, and how many places you want to see.

I’m going to start off by recommending at least 5 days— but truthfully, in order to get the full experience, you’d probably want to dedicate a week or 10 days.

Day 1 – 2: Aix-en-Provence, Avignon and Marseille

Upon landing, pick up your rental car and kick off your South of France road-trip in Provence. 

Sample Itinerary

8:00 AM – Visit Notre Dame de Sanaque (make sure you check the times it opens)

11:30 AM – Pope’s Palace in Avignon (you could spend all day here, but if you want to cram in a bunch, you’ll get the gist of the place by just touring around and taking it all in)

2:00 PM – Lunch (and a glass, or two, of rosé, of course)

3:30 PM – Cavaillon Synagogue (you can easily substitute this with a visit to a winery or another local attraction)

6:00 PM – Discover Port of Marseilles and eat at La Marine des Goudes (one of the best fresh seafood meals I’ve had in my life, overlooking the most stunning vista). Separately, you can find a restaurant where to eat Bouillabaisse, as this region is well-known for this traditional Provençal fish stew.

10:00 PM – Head back to the hotel.

Pro Tip: If you’re dead set on seeing the lavender fields, make sure you time it right. When I went the lavender had just been harvested and I did not see one ounce of purple anywhere. The best time to see the lavender fields in Provence is from mid-June to mid-July.

Now, if you’re hoping to add winery visits to your Provence itinerary, you’ll notice that I didn’t include that. Since I only had one day and there’s so much to explore, I chose to skip the wineries in favor of seeing other aspects of the area. However, if I had more time, I would have spent the second day dedicated to seeing all of the different wineries.

For those looking to incorporate a winery or vineyard visit into their trip for Day 2 , here’s a quick list for you! 

The Best Wineries to Visit in Provence

• Chateau la Canorgue
• Château de Berne
• Chêne Bleu Winery
• Domaine de Fontenille
• Château Fontvert
• Chateau D’Esclans

The Best Restaurants In Provence, France

• Le Jardin du Quai
• La Petite Maison de Cucuron
• Le Pont de l’Orme
• L’Agape, Avignon
• L’Oustau de Baumanière, Les Baux de Provence

Where to Stay in Aix-en-Provence: Hotel Le Pigonnet

In order to get to the hotel, we drove through what was a seemingly industrial area, so I initially wasn’t sure what to expect. However, once we turned off the main road and into the gates of this property, I knew it was a fantastic choice. At the end of a short, tree-lined gravel road was Le Pigonnet, a stunning boutique hotel in the middle of Aix-en-Provence. 

With its old world charm and 18th century foundations, this stunner did not disappoint. Although small, the rooms were adorable, some with balconies overlooking the small, but unique pool set up. The staff was friendly and welcoming and it was a lovely start to our trip. 

From here, it was easy to get around, even on foot. We were in the middle of Aix and could visit the town center, as well as easily drive out of town to the wineries and small surrounding villages we wanted to explore, including the lavender fields that everyone raves about.

(FYI: we initially decided on the property because it’s a Chase Sapphire partner. If you’re not using credit card benefits and points for travel , you’re doing it wrong!)

Day 3: Bormes-Les-Mimosas, Le Lavandou, and St. Tropez

After a fruitful first day, we kept it moving. Waking up early, and having breakfast by our beautiful pool, we then hoped in our Fiat and rode down the scenic A52 autoroute toward St. Tropez—the epitome of a seaside French Riviera town (and the one you see in all those vintage posters of the Cote d’Azur).

For this portion of your itinerary, you’ll definitely want to explore all of the small villages including Bormes-Les-Mimosas and Le Lavandou on the way to the famed St. Tropez. 

9:00 AM – Light breakfast at the hotel; hit the road.

The drive is beautiful, and you’ll find it hard not to pull over every 10 minutes. Definitely give yourself some extra time to wander around throughout your drive.

* Pro Tip: If you’re not interested in hilltop villages, you can always head to Chateau D’Esclans (Whispering Angel winery) for a little early morning rosé tasting.

12:30 PM – Stop for lunch. We decided to stop at Bormes-Les-Mimosas for a quick lunch and a hurried peek to appreciate the perfect panorama along the many outlook points on this hilltop village.

Continue your drive and stop at other small villages and communes along the way. A few of the most beautiful towns in this area are Grimaud, Port Grimaud, and Le Lavandou.

Then head to St. Tropez.

3:00 PM – Explore the Port de Saint-Tropez for shopping and an afternoon coffee. (Many of the items on our list of the best things to buy in Paris are available in Saint-Tropez as well, so keep an eye out!) Alternatively, if you’re interested in wine, you should check out Château Minuty in Gassin, which is located right near St. Tropez. (The brand is known for making some of the best rosé wine in the world.)

10:30 PM – Dinner at L’Opera. One of the most quintessentially over-the-top experiences you can have while visiting St. Tropez is dinner at L’Opera. It’s a restaurant, nightclub, and theatrical performance all wrapped into one. There are two main seatings—early and late—and as you might imagine, the later seating is when things really heat up. You can ask your hotel concierge to assist with making a reservation.

Day 4: St. Tropez

9:00 AM – Have a leisurely morning at your hotel.

2:00 PM – Late lunch & beach club.

The celeb-fueled party location of St. Tropez was made famous during the 60’s as the go-to destination for the jetsetting elite. Today, St. Tropez attracts an equally glamorous crowd, drawn to the area for its bustling beach clubs, mega-yachts, and high-end shopping.

Typically, if you walk along the beach, you’ll find people dancing on tables, loud thumping house music, and fabulous people feasting on lavish meals while downing jeroboams of rose and champagne.

However—you won’t find that if you go in August like we did. What we didn’t realize was that August is the slow month, as mostly everyone in Europe leaves these towns for their own vacations. Aside from the waitstaff and a few stragglers, the town was dead. Just something to keep in mind and help manage expectations. Lesson learned! May, June, and July are far more lively.

There are so many different beach clubs to choose from, so here’s a quick list of recommendations!

The Best Beach Clubs in St Tropez

• Loulou Plage & Restaurant
• Club 55 (a bit more low-key than the others)
• Nikki Beach
• Tahiti Plage
• Pearl Beach
• Bagatelle (perfect for a celebratory occasion or a bachelorette party)
• La Réserve à la Plage (make sure you try the lobster salad)
• Byblos Beach Club
• Club Les Palmiers

7:00 PM – Enjoy sunset on the beach, then head back to your hotel. Grab a casual bite to eat near where you’re staying.

Where to Stay in St. Tropez

• Mid-range: La Ponche
• Expensive:  Lily of the Valley — If you’re lucky enough to stay here, be sure to have breakfast on the terrace. You can reserve a beach villa if you’re hoping for a getaway that feels super luxe and private. The property has a gorgeous spa and pool, and they serve really great food. I’m including some pics of the property below!

Best Restaurants in St. Tropez, France

• L’Opéra Saint-Tropez (a full show/experience rather than just a dinner)
• La Petit Plage
• Cucina Byblos
• La Sauvageonne (a fun spot for cocktails)
• Dior des Lices (the best place to grab brunch)

Day 5: Nice

8:00 AM – Make your way to Nice. The drive takes about an hour and a half without traffic.

10:00 AM – Food walking tour with A Taste of Nice.

2:30 PM – Explore Vieux Nice (Old Nice) and Lunch (tons of cute cafes, so pick your fave!)

Pro Tip: Booking AirBnB experiences is an excellent way to do things the way locals do. Whether its a bike tour, a food tour, a walking tour, or anything that suits your fancy, I always check these options wherever I travel.

4:30pm – Beach. During the summer, the sun stays out for a long time, so it’s nice to take a little rest. But, the beaches in Nice are rocky, so just account for that. Alternatively, you can chose to go to the beach in Villefranche-Sur-Mer or Menton, the lemon capital of the world and the last French town before you reach Italy.

7:00pm – Climb Le Parc de la Colline du Château for sunset views and a stroll along Port Lympia. Alternatively, you could head down to Le Plongeoir (a local restaurant) for a really unique sunset watching experience.

9:30 PM – Dinner at La Roustide or Le Petit Maison.

Where to Stay in Nice: Chateau Le Cagnard

Rather than staying in Nice proper, we chose instead to stay in nearby Cagnes-sur-Mer, and we’re so glad we did. This real-life 15th century castle-turned-boutique hotel is perched on a hilltop overlooking the quaint village of Haut de Cagnes.

Day 6: Grasse and Antibes

8:00 AM – Light breakfast and  drive to Grasse (the perfume capital of the world.)

10:00 AM – Musee International de la Parfumerie. If you want to create your own fragrance, be sure to book that specific tour as it is about 4 hours long and requires advanced booking.

12:00 PM – Drive to the famous Hotel du Cap Eden Roc. ( Alternatively, you could use this afternoon to explore Cannes. If that’s what you choose, I recommend lunch at Restaurant La Palme d’Or or L’Alba.)

1:00 PM – Lunch, pool, and drinks at the Hotel du Cap Eden Roc. Try booking a day cabana and eat by the pool instead of the restaurant. It’s pricey—but not as pricey as staying at the hotel—and gives you the same indulgent and relaxing experience that you’d have if you were a guest.

5:00 PM – Head out to Antibes and explore the unique charm of this underrated town.

7:30 PM – Dinner in Antibes at Le Figuier de Saint Esprit (another stunning little town on the Cote d’Azur you just can’t miss!)

Day 7: Èze, Monaco

Next on the itinerary is the exquisite and fabulous village of Èze and the glitzy principality of Monaco. In reality, you could break these places up into two separate days, but for the sake of this itinerary, we have them included together.

8:00 AM – Depart your hotel and drive to Èze for breakfast. It’s approximately a 45-60 minute drive from the Cannes/Antibes area.

9:00 AM – Discover Èze. The Medieval hilltop village, which overlooks the Cote d’Azur, is stunning. Think quaint cobblestone streets, vibrant bougainvillea, and charming boutiques. Note that Èze requires a lot of walking at steep inclines, so you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes .

3:00 PM – Drive to Monaco and check into your hotel. 

There’s certainly no shortage of opulence or fabulosity in this region. It’s not for everyone. (Personally I found it very pretentious and it was a bit cheesy for my taste.) But there are certainly other areas, like the botanical gardens, that provide a more local experience.

8:00 PM – Dinner at Blue Bay, La Montgolfiere, Buddha Bar or Le Grill, followed by a round at the casino and a swing by the several bars, lounges and clubs to get the night going… if that’s your thing, of course!

Where to Stay in Monte Carlo

• Mid-Range: Fairmont
• Expensive: Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo

We ended up getting a room at the Fairmont (where the famous “hairpin turn” is of the 24 Hours of Le Mans race every summer) because we wanted to enjoy the casino and nightlife of Monaco and didn’t want to drive back to our hotel late at night.

Monaco vs. Monte Carlo

Now you’re probably wondering: what’s the difference between Monte Carlo and Monaco? The two are often used interchangeably so it can be a bit confusing. Monaco is the name of the country (principality), and Monte Carlo is a neighborhood within Monaco.

Monte-Carlo is where you’ll find the famed Casino de Monte-Carlo and many luxury hotels.

Fun fact: Monaco is also the second smallest country in the world. (Only Vatican City is smaller.)

What to Wear in the South of France

One of the questions I get asked most often is about packing for a trip to the South of France—and more specifically, whether there’s a “French Riviera dress code.”

While the fashion here definitely skews a bit more polished than what you’d pack for a standard beach vacation or other European destinations like Santorini or Positano , there’s no specific dress code, per se.

Below you’ll find examples of several outfits I wore during my trip. Lots of sundresses, flat sandals, tasteful swimsuits, and sun-hats.

This packing guide for St Barths also provides additional inspo as the styles are very similar!

Hopefully you found this South of France itinerary helpful. Are there any recommendations you have that I didn’t include here? Please leave them in the comments below!

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Nikki Marie, a Cuban American Miami native, moved to her dream city, NYC, in 2015. Her penchant for adventure and travel have taken her to more than 30 countries. A PR pro 9-5, Nikki Marie uses her free time to share her travel hacks and high-lo fashion inspo via her instagram  @TheCubanCarrie  – a play on words of her all-time favorite character, Carrie Bradshaw.

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loved this piece! what would you recommend for a more *relaxing* trip in the south of france (which cities, hotels, etc) for about 5 days? looking at also going at the end of august then spending 2 nights in paris on the return.

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South of France: The Ultimate 12-Day Travel Itinerary

The French Riviera: dazzling sea, sandy beaches, red & white candy-style parasols, and pastel-colored towns. This part of South France truly feels like something out of a vintage film, so it’s no surprise that it’s been used as the setting for many Hollywood movies. Spend around 2 weeks in the French Riviera, getting lost in the old towns, smelling the lemons, enjoying the shade of palm trees, and watching the sailing boats bob on the sparkling Mediterranean. It’s a vacation dream!

French Riviera Travel Guide

Traveling in the French Riviera (Cote d’Azur) is an absolute dream. It’s easy to get around, every town has its own unique wow factor, and the coastline is as pretty as a picture. Enjoy all the top things to do with this complete French Riviera travel guide.

Day 1 – 2: Marseille

Marseille is the best place to start your Cote d’Azur trip, as the oldest city in France and the capital of the French Riviera! It’s a romantic city, with narrow alleys filled with pastel-colored houses, flowers, and elegant ancient buildings. However, it’s also dynamic and vibrant, with its street art, food markets, and modern architecture that pops out amongst the old.

There are so many great things to do in Marseille itself, however, it’s also a great jumping-off point to visit some stunning natural wonders in the area, such as Calanques national park. Here you can hike along sheer cliffs and among dense greenery, before reaching sheltered coves with stunning blue water. This is what the French Riviera is all about: the perfect combination of refreshing summer swims, warm nights, delicious dinners, and city sightseeing. 

Read: Things to do on a city trip to Marseille

Where to stay in Marseille

The best place to stay in Marseille is anywhere near the old port (Vieux Port). It’s right in the center of the old town and the best place to stay to see the sights and be at the heart of the action of the city. 

Hotels in Marseille 😴

Getting to Marseille

Despite being in the deep south of France, Marseille is really well connected by train to other cities in France, as well as other cities in Europe! For example, you can take a train from London, Paris , Rotterdam , or Amsterdam . This is a fantastic slow way to travel, allowing you to see beautiful landscapes and be more sustainable.

Find your train options to Marseille here.

Marseille also has its own airport, which has flights leaving to many other international destinations. This makes it a very easy place to fly into on your French Riviera trip!

Day 3 – 4: Cassis

Cassis is just 30 minutes away from Marseille, but a whole world away from the bustling city life. When you arrive in Cassis, you’ll immediately be transported to a slower pace of life, and the beauty of the town is truly like something from an old painting. There are pastel-colored houses that complement the charming harbor, and loads of delicious restaurants to choose from.

Food is very important here and the small town is famous for its extensive market, with beautiful locally sourced products. Grab your shopping bag and head here to buy the most delicious ingredients for your dinner! 

Read more about Cassis in the Marseille travel guide

Where to Stay in Cassis

Cassis is small, but there are plenty of great places to stay. If you’re looking for a little more luxury, there are some incredible hotels that sit high above the town on the surrounding cliffs, with views of the sea. There are also local guest houses too, which are the perfect place to stay to be in the heart of Cassis.

Hotels in Cassis 😴

Getting to Cassis

Cassis is only 30 minutes drive from Marseille, so use Marseille as your main hub for travel. From Marseille, you can travel to Cassis by train in 18 minutes for as little as 5 EUR.

Day 5: Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez used to be a small fishing village popular with artists. Over the years, it became known as a luxury destination. Now, the colorful town is home to chic cafes, beautiful houses, and a harbor full of elegant yachts. One of the best things to do is come, people-watch, and sit in one of the harbor-side restaurants with a cocktail in hand. 

All of the beaches in Saint-Tropez are beautiful! The water here is a stunning turquoise color that is reminiscent of a Caribbean island – perfect for a day of relaxing and swimming. Hire yourself the classic red and white parasol and live out your French Riviera dreams.

Tip: Saint-Tropez has a citadel that sits high up on the hill above the town. It’s the perfect place to go and catch some magical views, especially at sunset or sunrise.

Getting to Saint-Tropez , French Riviera

The nearest airport to Saint-Tropez is Toulon (50 minutes). Alternatively, there is Nice airport which is 90 minutes away.

Reaching Saint-Tropez by public transport is a little harder as there is no train station. However, you can take a train from Nice to the nearest station, ‘St Raphael’, which takes around 50 minutes. From here, you’ll need to take a taxi to Saint-Tropez (1 hour and 15 minutes).

Day 6: Cannes (or Antibes)

Known for the Cannes Film festival, the city is often in the spotlight as a place for celebrities, bringing it a certain exclusivity. However, it’s still a charming port town and there are ways to enjoy it without breaking the bank!

There are lots of great free things to do, from visiting the famous weekly market to finding murals in the old town (Le Suquet). You can also stand in the same spot as some of your favorite actors and actresses by visiting the Palais des Festivals, where you can see the red carpet and the ‘walk of fame’. Or, as an alternative to Cannes, visit Antibes!

Getting to Cannes

Reach Cannes from Saint-Tropez by car in 2 hours or by train from Nice in under half an hour.

Day 7 – 8: Nice , French Riviera

Nice is true to its name: one of the nicest cities in our French Riviera travel guide! Sandwiched between the majestic Alps and the dazzling blue of the Mediterranean Sea, it’s no surprise that Nice is one of the most popular places to visit on the Cote d’Azur.

As a seaside city, one of the best things to do here is to visit the many beaches. Follow the Promenade des Anglais, a long boulevard that follows the sea. Although it looks like there is one long stretch of beach, it’s actually split up into 30 different beaches (some private, some public) for you to choose from. 

In the evening, take a picnic with the food you’ve bought at the market and head to the top of Castle Hill. Here you’ll discover panoramic views out across Nice and the surrounding coastline; it’s the perfect place to sit as the sun goes down. 

Tip: Nice is oozing with history. One of the most unusual historical buildings is the Russian Orthodox Cathedral, known as one of the most impressive of its type outside of Russia itself.

Where to Stay in Nice

Many people choose to base themselves in Nice for the entire duration of their stay on the French Riviera, as it’s such a good location to get to all the other delights of the Cote d’Azur. It’s also got loads of great accommodation options for a variety of prices. Whether it’s beachside or in the historic center, there’s something for every kind of traveler.

Hotels in Nice 😴

Getting to Nice

Nice has an international airport so it’s very easy to get to from all over the world. Trains from Cannes to Nice run regularly and take about 35 minutes. Book your train connection here.

Read: Complete Nice, France travel guide

Day 9: Villefranche-sur-Mer

Villefranche-sur-Mer is the hidden gem of the French Riviera. It’s much quieter than some of the more popular neighboring cities and towns on the coastline and this adds to its charm. Every old building has been beautifully preserved and it’s so picturesque that it’s been the setting for many famous films. 

The old town is the must-see on your trip to Villefranche-sur-Mer and you could easily spend a few hours getting lost in the narrow cobbled streets. Grab your camera and enjoy finding all the beautiful details of the colorful townhouses, painted shutters, and hanging flowers. There are even some spooky surprises when stumbling across the Rue Obscure: a 13th-century passageway that goes under the old town.

Tip: Finish your day at the Plage des Marinieres. This is a beautiful bay, with perfect water for swimming, which looks across to the colorful old town.

Where to Stay in Villefranche-sur-Mer

Most people choose to visit Villefranche on a day trip from Nice. However, if you have time to extend your itinerary, it’s well worth slowing down in this charming town. There are plenty of great accommodation options beachside, or you can find pretty apartments in the old town.

Hotels in Villefranche-sur-Mer 😴

Getting to Villefranche-sur-Mer

The train from Nice only takes a few minutes and costs 2 EUR. This makes it the perfect day trip! Alternatively, it’s also a great base to explore the rest of the French Riviera, as it’s quieter and less crowded.

Read everything about Villefranche-sur-Mer !

Day 10: Monaco

Monaco is an independent state that’s so beautiful it has become an exclusive holiday destination for the rich and famous. There are grand houses, villas, and even a palace to see on a day trip to Monaco. 

Spend your morning exploring the city, your afternoon relaxing on the beautiful beach, and the evening enjoying the legendary nightlife!

Getting to Monaco

Take a train from Nice to Monaco in under half an hour. You can also drive in around 30 minutes but be aware that parking is very expensive.

Book your train tickets here .

Day 11 – 12: Menton – Pearl of the French Riviera

Menton is known as the ‘Pearl of the French Riviera’ and for good reason! The town has a beauty that is postcard-worthy, with its pastel-colored houses, terracotta roofs, and gardens of lemon trees.

Best of all, it’s thought to be one of the warmest places on the coastline, with over 316 days of sunshine a year! This means it’s the perfect place to visit the French Riviera at any time of year, and it’s the perfect place to grow lemons. The town is very proud of this, and you can find every type of lemon product imaginable. There’s even a lemon festival held every year at the end of February.

Just like Nice, there are plenty of town beaches to choose from. The ones to the east of Menton (towards Italy) are the sandier ones and are a great place to relax after a day of wandering the steep streets of the gorgeous old town.

Did you know? Menton is so close to the border of Italy that it can feel more Italian than French. Hello, pizza, pasta, and gelato!

Read: Menton – The Pearl of France

Where to Stay in Menton

Menton is small but perfectly formed, and anywhere in this beautiful town is a good area to stay. It’s particularly nice to choose from one of the hotels that look out over the sea and wake up to beautiful views! 

Hotels in Menton 😴

Getting to Menton

There are two railway stations in Menton, and it sits on the regional train line that goes between Nice and Italy. From Nice, it only takes 40 minutes, and it’s a beautiful train ride. 

Book your train tickets easily online here.

Extending your French Riviera Travels

If you’ve got more time, there are lots more incredible destinations to see on the French Riviera, like Antibes or Eze .

Costs of Traveling on the French Riviera

The French Riviera is known for its beautiful but expensive hotels and restaurants. However, there are ways you can budget for your trip. For example, travel in the off-season when the prices are lower, and it’s less busy. You can also stay in lesser-visited towns like Menton or Eze to reduce costs. Nice and Marseille are bigger cities that also offer a much bigger range of accommodation.

Costs of Traveling in France

Travel on a budget in France, from $340 − $670 USD weekly per person, mid-range $980 − $2160 USD, and high-end from $2070 − $3140 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $75 − $300 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $20 − $70 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $20 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $35 − $60 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $15 − $50 USD
• Activities: $5 − $30 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

How to Travel Around the French Riviera

Traveling around the French Riviera is super easy by car but also via public transport. There are great rail links between all the towns and tickets are generally very cheap

Find train tickets .

There are public buses, but roads can be busy at peak times on coastal roads. Additionally, hiring a car can give you the freedom to explore hidden corners of the French Riviera but make sure to factor in the costs of parking in the cities and towns. 

We recommend to rent a car in France through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Best Time to Travel to the French Riviera

The French Riviera is the warmest place in France, with over 300 days of sunshine a year! The summers are hot and dry, spring and fall are still warm, and the winters are mild. This means that any time is good to travel to the French Riviera. If you want fewer crowds and lower prices, we recommend traveling during the spring or fall.

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Menton, France: The Pearl of the French Riviera

7 best things to do in nice (french riviera), villefranche-sur-mer: visit the most colorful town in south france.

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Hey! This sounds amazing! Have you got any articles about travelling from south of France into Italy as part of your trip? Thanks!

Hi Kate, we don’t have guides that specific but you can have a look at our Italy travel guides .

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The Best 10 Day South of France Road Trip Itinerary

A ten-day tour of Provence and Occitanie – here’s our South of France Road Trip itinerary.

About the author: David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian with 30+years experience exploring Europe. His work regularly appears in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, and The Guardian.

Welcome to my South of France Road Trip itinerary guide, taking in the best of both Provence and Occitanie.

Driving in the South of France enables you to see far more than public transport does. You can get off the beaten path, seeing some of the most beautiful scenery in France along the way.

This road trip itinerary is packed with suggestions, and if you have a few more days available, there are plenty of possibilities for discovering even more amazing places.

I’ve devised this southern France road trip itinerary to include some of the best of Provence and the region to the west, Occitanie. The latter, covering southwest France, used to be known as Languedoc & Roussillon.

Provence is perhaps better known than Occitanie – but over several trips I’ve found both are equally compelling. This itinerary is an amalgamation of two of the south of France road trips I have done. It also takes you around six UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The first few days are spent driving short distances around the west of Provence before heading west. You eventually return via the fascinating city of Albi, enjoying some of the most beautiful scenery in France along the way.

Table of Contents

South of France Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1 – avignon.

Avignon, my suggested starting point for this south of France vacation, is one of the best cities in France to visit. It’s best known as the City of Popes – six Popes presided from there in the 13 th and 14 th centuries.

The Palais des Papes – the Popes’ Palace – is one of the highlights. The immense fortified palace is one of the greatest Gothic buildings in France, and still dominates the whole city.

Avignon is also renowned because of the famous song, Sur le pont d’Avignon . The Pont Saint-Bénézet is named after the local saint who claimed he had a vision telling him to build a bridge on the site.

The location was unsuitable: the original 12th-century bridge was destroyed by floods, and just four arches of its replacement survive.

I suggest sticking to one day in Avignon , simply because there is so much to see elsewhere. It may well be worth considering a guided walking tour of Avignon , which will cover the main sights I’ve mentioned and the Notre Dame des Doms Cathedral near the Papal Palace.

There are also several more churches to explore, including those of St Didier and St Pierre, and the formidable circuit of town walls.

Also take a walk to the Rue des Teinturiers, one of the prettiest streets in Avignon. It’s set along a canal in an area once lived in by the city’s dyers and tanners, and one of their waterwheels is still preserved.

Places To Stay In Avignon

Hotel d’Europe : 5-star luxury on one of the loveliest squares in Avignon

La Mirande – 5-star elegance next to the Palais des Papes

Les Jardins de Baracane :  gorgeous 17 th century guesthouse      

Day 2 – Around Avignon – Pont du Gard, Orange And More

I suggest using Avignon as a base for the first part of this south of France road trip as there is such an abundance of day trips from Avignon . 

One of the best things about staying in Avignon is that so many of the best places to visit in Provence are within reach by public transport. That said, a great many places to see in Provence can only be reached by car.

The drawback of using public transport in the south of France is that you’re limited to seeing one place a day. Driving allows you to cover more ground more quickly, and on the second day of your South of France vacation you can easily reach two World Heritage Sites and explore some of the best of Côtes du Rhône wine country.    

Start the day by heading west along the N100 from Avignon, continuing to Remoulins and following the D19 towards the Pont du Gard. It’s one of the most iconic bridges in Europe , a triple-layered arched aqueduct built in the 1 st century AD. The Romans built it to supply the nearby town of Nemausus with water.

It’s remarkably well preserved, among the outstanding Roman monuments in Europe. The Aqueduct is a few minutes’ walk from the car park and small museum devoted to the Pont.

After a couple of hours at the Pont du Gard, return to Remoulins and then join the A9 motorway (toll applies) for the short journey (around 30 km from where you join the motorway) to Orange. Follow the signs to the centre of Orange, a provincial town to the north of Avignon.

Here you’ll need a couple of hours to visit two more amazing Roman sights (which make up another World Heritage Site). The Arc de Triomphe d’Orange is beautifully preserved, especially its exceptional bas-reliefs. It’s believed to date from the reign of the first Roman Emperor, Caesar Augustus, and there is also an inscription dedicated to his successor, Tiberius.

The other unmissable sight in Orange is the Théâtre Antique, or Ancient Theatre. Again, it’s incredibly well reserved, with an intact stage wall. The statue in the stage wall is of Emperor Augustus, during whose reign it was probably built. The Theatre has been used to stage productions again since the 19 th century.

The stage is an astonishing 60 metres wide, and dramas and comedies would have been performed on it in ancient times. Nowadays it’s used for opera performances, especially during the summertime Choregies d’Orange festival.

You can return to Orange via the backroads around the famous wine village of Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Alternatively, a more scenic route takes you east via Violes to the Dentelles de Montmirail, Beaumes-de-Venise and Carpentras before swinging south-east to Avignon.  

Day 3 – Avignon to Arles

We leave Avignon behind on the third morning of our South of France road trip, gently making our way a short distance down to the Rhone to the gorgeous World Heritage city of Arles.

Begin the day by driving the 10 miles (16 km) south from Avignon to the gorgeous little town of St Remy de Provence. I’ve stopped here numerous times over the years, and always found something new to intrigue me.

It’s mainly known for its connection to Vincent van Gogh, who made several of his most famous paintings there, including Starry Night and Olive trees with the Alpilles in the background . He produced these while a patient at what was then known as the Saint-Paul Asylum, on the southern edge of the town.

This is now known as the Centre Culturel Saint-Paul de Mausole, and is next to the same groves of olive trees van Gogh painted. These are, in turn, next to the ancient Roman city of Glanum. Two of the best-preserved monuments – the Mausoleum of the Julii and Triumphal Arch – are on the west side of the road, while the rest of the city is on the other side.

The settlement pre-dated the Romans, who occupied the site until it was ransacked around 260 AD by the Alemanni.  The ruins of the main town are substantial, including part of a temple, a well-preserved main street, baths and a spring.

Head south over the jagged hills of the Alpilles range, from which you emerge with a view of the vast coastal plain.  The D5 road continues around to Les Baux de Provence, one of ‘les plus beaux villages de France’.   

It’s certainly one of the most dramatically sited villages in France, occupying a limestone outcrop with superb views in all directions. The village is huddled below the ruined medieval castle, which ruled over more than 70 villages before the line of succession ended in the 15 th century.

Most of the old village is given over to tourism, with many of the houses now used as galleries or gift shops. But don’t be put off. I’ve visited the village three times, and most recently loved the walks around the Val d’Enfer (the Valley of Hell) to the north of the village.

The views there are superb, and if you have time I also suggest visiting Les Carrières de Lumières , a series of underground caverns that hosts some amazing art installations. At the time of writing they have a Dutch theme, with Vermeer, van Gogh and Mondrian featured.

The village also gave its name to bauxite, an aluminium ore quarried to exhaustion until the end of the 20 th century. Your day is almost done. It’s a 20-minute drive – around 8 miles (14 km) south-east to the wonderful city of Arles, where I suggest staying two nights.

Where To Stay In Arles

Hotel de l’Anglais:  wonderful guesthouse in the heart of Old Arles

Hotel de l’Amphitheatre

Hotel Spa Le Calendal

Day 4 – Arles

Arles may just be our favourite city in Provence. I’ve visited several times over the years, and it’s a great base for a day – even several. It’s the gateway to the Camargue, the wetlands of the Rhone delta, and like Avignon, makes a great base for day trips in the south of France.  

Some of you may prefer Arles to Avignon – it’s more vivid, bright and colourful than its more austere neighbour to the north. Arles, another UNESCO World Heritage city, has two main draws for its visitors: its Roman sites and Vincent van Gogh association.

The Roman amphitheatre, which holds crowds of 25,000, was completed a few years after the Colosseum in Rome. It’s in excellent condition, and like its counterpart in Nimes, hosts bullfighting (but no killing), and concerts.  It’s an awesome venue for events like this, and an absolute must-see if you visit Arles.

The Roman Theatre is a short distance away. It would have been of similar size to the Roman Theatre in Orange, but is in worse state of preservation. The most intriguing of the Roman sites in Arles is Les Alyscamps, a Roman-era necropolis that continued to be Arles’ principal burial ground a thousand years after they had gone.  Roman burial grounds were traditionally outside the city walls, as was the case here.

Vincent van Gogh moved to Arles in 1888, and though some of his time there could be described as turbulent, it was also one of the most productive of his lifetime.  Arles undoubtedly inspired him. It was where he produced the likes of Starry Night Over the Rhone , The Yellow House , Café Terrace At Night , L’Arlesienne and some of his famous still-lifes and studies of chairs.

He left Arles for St-Remy in May 1889, having spent time at the Hospital (now L’Espace van Gogh). If you have an interest in van Gogh, you should also make time to visit the Fondation Vincent van Gogh , which usually has a small collection of his paintings on display.

Aficionados of modern architecture should also seek out Luma Arles. It’s an arts and cultural centre, the distinctive work of Frank Gehry.  The architect of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and Dancing House Prague completed this commission in 2021, and it’s one of his best.  I love the description of the Tower in the Guardian just after its completion – ‘Bacofoil scrunched by an invisible fist’.

Day 5 – Arles to Carcassonne

The fifth day of your South of France road trip is really down to you. It’s a two-hour drive, mostly along the A9 autoroute, to your next stop, Carcassonne. You may wish to see more of Arles. Or perhaps you may wish to get to Carcassonne as early as possible.

On the other hand, there is the option of heading south to the fascinating Camargue, or visiting some intriguing seaside towns very close by. I spent a couple of days of my first south of France road trip, back in the summer of 1988, in this area and have always meant to return.

We meandered around the Camargue for a while, camping near the beautiful old seaside town of Le Grau du Roi, on the western edge of the wetland area. Le Grau is a few miles along the coast from La Grande Motte, a resort built in the 1960s and 1970s.

I wrote in my journal at the time that it was ‘a seaside resort for aliens’. Many of the buildings – designed by Jean Balladur – are pyramid-like constructions. They were supposedly inspired by some of the pyramids of Central America, but always struck me as being more futuristic.

The medieval fortress town of Aigues-Mortes is a few miles along the coast on the D62. The town walls are superb, the architecture of much of the small town likewise. It’s on the shore of the Camargue, on the edge of a vast expanse of salt flats.  I haven’t returned there since the ‘80s, but would recommend anyone intrigued enough to go exploring.

Head for the A709 and then the A9 autoroute south of Montpellier. La Languedocienne takes you past the splendid old cities of Beziers and Narbonne, and at the latter take the A61 to your next stop, the fortified town of Carcassonne.

Places To Stay in Carcassonne

Hotel de la Cite & Spa MGallery : stunning 5-star hotel in the medieval citadel

Sowell Hotels Les Chevaliers : fine 4star in the Ville Basse, with some of the best views in town

Day 6 – Carcassonne

Carcassonne is one of the great icons of France and most beautiful castles in Europe.  The city – close to the Mediterranean and trade routes – has been fortified to some degree since Roman times.

The Visigoths took over the city, and the Carolingians, under Pepin the Short, took over in the 8 th century. The city was also renowned as one of the main refuges of the Cathars, Christians with what the Catholic Church considered heretical beliefs. As part of the Albigensian Crusade, thousands were brutally expelled from Carcassonne.

I’ve visited Carcassonne on three south of France road trips, and each time the initial sight of it has blown me away. The Cité de Carcassonne – the Citadel – encompasses the Old Town and Castle (Chateau Comtal), its 50 or more towers and turrets and immense walls visible from many miles away.  

It’s an amazing sight from the Pont Vieux – the long medieval bridge across the river Aude – and from the vineyards that surround the town. The Cité is quite small and only takes a few hours to explore, including its gateways and ramparts and the Basilica of St Nazaire. 

Each time I’ve visited I’ve ended up spending more time in the Ville Basse – the modern lower town – than the Cité.  A restored medieval citadel isn’t really conducive to day-to-day modern life, and this is where you’ll find more Carcassonne restaurants and hotels.

While there, don’t miss the Cathedral of Saint-Michel, which replaced the Basilica in the Cité as the region’s mother church in 1803. Also take a drive into the surrounding countryside to appreciate some of the amazing views of the Cité.  Some of the best are from the vineyards surrounding the town.

Carcassonne is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is on the doorstep of another – the Canal du Midi. This amazing feat of engineering was completed in the mid-17 th century. The 240-kilometre waterway links the city of Toulouse with the Mediterranean Sea, and Carcassonne is near the mid-point of the Canal.

Day 7 – Carcassonne to Albi

The drive between these two World Heritage cities takes you over the unheralded Montagne Noire (Black Mountain). It also crosses from the Aude departement to Tarn, of which Albi is the capital.

The Montagne Noire is a vast upland forest area, and the D118 winds its way up and over the top. It takes you as far as the outskirts of the fine town of Castres , a name familiar to rugby fans around Europe. I only stopped for lunch for an hour or so, with just enough time to admire the quirky tanners’ houses above the Agout river.

A few old friends from Wales have visited to watch rugby there, and are very enamoured with the town. I’d be inclined to press on towards Albi, but there are plenty of other things to see in Castres, including a Goya Museum.

Continuing northwards, you eventually pass the turnoff for the gorgeous medieval village of Lautrec. If the name is familiar, it’s the ancestral village of the family of artist Henri de Toulouse—Lautrec, more on whom shortly. There’s a beautiful square surrounded by characteristic local brick and timber houses, and a fine 17 th century windmill on the hill above the village.

Eventually you reach the red-brick wonder of Albi, long one of my favourite cities in France. Park, check in and head straight for the most striking building in the city, the extraordinary Cathédrale Ste Cécile.

Its exterior looks more like a forbidding fortress than a place of worship. This was the intention of Bishop Bernard de Castanet, who began the Cathedral in the aftermath of the 13th-century Albigensian Crusade.

This campaign had seen the defeat of the Cathar heretics, so the new Cathedral was all about projecting Bernard’s power.  Although he did cut costs somewhat by using brick rather than stone. Albi Cathedral is said to be the biggest brick building in the world. I’m pretty sure that it isn’t (mighty Malbork Castle in Poland is bigger) but it’s a hugely impressive edifice.

I strongly recommend taking a walk down the hill to the River Tarn to admire the view of the city with the Cathedral looming above.  It’s particularly striking at sunrise, when the first light of the day glances across the red-brick buildings. Albi Cathedral is so different inside. I remember expecting a bare, austere interior, like a vast empty hall in a Castle. Not at all. It’s positively lavish and extravagant.

I was particularly struck by the beautifully painted vaults, which run the length of the church. This would have been done in the late 15 th and early 16 th centuries. The walls are also beautifully decorated, with the 15 th -century Last Judgment mural at the west end of the nave the oldest surviving work.

Places To Stay In Albi

Hotel Alchimy: 4-star with luxury suites in the historical centre

Hostellerie du Grand St-Antoine

La Voute du 26   – amazing apartment in medieval house in the historic centre of Albi  

Day 8 – Albi and Albigeois Region

There are enough things to do in Albi to keep you there for two or three days. It’s one of the most underrated cities in France, a place rich in medieval architecture. Other cities (Toulouse) and towns in the region also have the distinctive red brick houses with timber frames – as does Lautrec, from the previous day of this South of France itinerary.

Start the day at the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum , housed next door to the Cathedral in the Bishops’ Palace, the Palais de la Berbie. The superb collection of Toulouse-Lautrec’s works was donated to his home city in 1922. He was famous for his Parisian posters and also drawings and paintings, and some of his best-known works are included in the collection, including the Moulin Rouge Masked Ball poster.

Spend more time exploring the less-known Albi sights, including the Maison du Vieil Alby (House of Old Albi, open afternoons only) and the Saint-Salvi church and cloister.      I was fortunate to have allowed myself three days in Albi, leaving time for a short drive north into the Albigeois, the countryside north of Albi. 

The main draw in the area is the gorgeous hilltop town of Cordes-sur-Ciel. It’s a beautiful rambling medieval town built on a steep hill, its cobbled streets full of galleries. It seemed to be pitched towards curious visitors, but when we visited, in April, there were very few of us around.

If Cordes is busy in summer and you really want to step back in time, head around 10 miles west to the village of Penne. It’s somewhere I yearn to return, an extraordinary village crowned by a wonky medieval castle. It’s in my personal most beautiful villages in France list, for sure.  

Day 9 – Albi to Millau

With great reluctance, we bid farewell to Albi to head east towards the southern end of the Massif Central. On this day we visit one of the great modern famous landmarks in France . And there is the option of visiting the home of one of the best blue cheeses in the world, if your tastebuds are so inclined.

We suggest following the D999 east from Albi into the Aveyron department, a journey of around 60 miles (100 km).  ass through the pretty town of Saint-Affrique before you reach the cheese mecca of Roquefort-sur-Soulzon. 

This small village is paradise to blue cheese fiends like us, and I ate one of the best sandwiches of my life there. The contents were no more than a very large chunk of bread and a huge helping of Roquefort cheese, but this was my food paradise.

The story goes that a shepherd left a piece of cheese in the high pastures, retrieving it months later to find it covered in mould. He supposedly tried a bite, and so one of the most famous cheeses in France was born.

See Also: What Is France Famous For? 

It’s a half-hour drive from there through the Grands Causses Regional Natural Park to Millau. These days it’s best-known as the nearest town to the Viaduc de Millau – or Millau Viaduct.

This magnificent bridge is the tallest in Europe, 270 metres above the Tarn valley floor at one point. One of its piers is 1143 feet (348 metres) high – which is considerably taller than the Eiffel Tower.

From Roquefort, I suggest rejoining the D999 and turning right, heading east to the nearest junction of the A75 autoroute (motorway). Join the autoroute, heading left (north) where you enjoy astounding views of the bridge and landscape below.

Turn off the A75 at the next junction, and follow the road around to the rest area (Aire du Viaduc de Millau) and viewpoint. From there you get a stunning view, with the piers of the bridge very close to each other. I also suggest driving around the Tarn Valley below the Viaduct to seek out more views of it.

One of my favourites is the beautiful village of Peyre, roughly a mile west of the Viaduct. This is where our dusk image of the Viaduct was shot.  

Hotels In Millau

Couvent de la Salette :  the best luxury bet in Millau, beautiful rooms in a centuries-old former convent

Domaine des Ondes – great guesthouse with wonderful mountain views

Day 10 – Millau to Avignon

Before the Viaduct was built, Millau was best-known as the gateway to the Gorges du Tarn. The upper reaches of the river flow through this spectacular narrow gorge on its way west, where it eventually meets the broad Garonne river.

Follow the D187 north out of Millau, continuing north-east to Le Rozier. From there, you have the option of heading 10 miles north to the best viewpoint in the Gorges du Tarn, the Point Sublime, which commands a breathtaking view of the valley.

From there, double back to Millau or head south via minor roads via Nant, to join the D7. This becomes the D999 a few miles to the east, and from here you continue into the Cevennes.  briefly stopped) and Saint Hippolyte du Fort. The D999 takes you all the way to Nimes, home to of the greatest Roman monuments in France and an enchanting old centre.  

You could overnight in Nimes or continue to Avignon – entirely up to you. I’ve stayed in Nimes twice, both times for one night, and would gladly do so again. The Maison Carrée, a 2 nd century AD Roman Temple, is one of the best-reserved ancient buildings anywhere in the world. It’s an astonishing sight, especially at dusk when the floodlights give it a magical aura.  

The Temple is on the same square as the Carré d’Art, a contemporary arts centre and museum designed by Norman Foster (who also designed the Viaduc de Millau. Even if a little Roman monument fatigue is beginning to creep in, the Arènes of Nimes is a must-see. Like that of Arles, this amphitheatre is in superb condition and still used for concerts and events.  

Getting To The South Of France

If you’re flying long-haul to France, from North America or Australia, it makes sense to fly to Paris, then catch the TGV (fast train) south to Avignon. You can then pick up your hire car from there. We recommend discover cars , who we use ourselves to find the best car rental deal in the area we’re exploring.

If you’re flying to the south of France from elsewhere in Europe, there are a multitude of airports in southern France to choose from.

You don’t necessarily have to start this south of France road trip from Avignon – you could easily do so from Carcassonne, which has a small airport that is a hub for budget carrier Ryanair.

I’ve flown into several other airports across the region, including Nimes (another Ryanair option), Marseille and Nice. You can also fly to Lyon (less than two hours’ drive north of Avignon) or even Grenoble, in the heart of the French Alps.  

South of France Road Trip – Final Thoughts

I hope this south of France road trip itinerary gives you some inspiration. It’s an astounding part of the world, and this mixture of Provence and Occitanie will encourage you to delve deeper into one, or both, of them.  

Check out more of our Europe road trip articles here:

• Normandy Road Trip – 7 days itinerary through gorgeous Normandy
• Portugal Road Trip – Alentejo – exploring the borderlands and backwoods of south-east Portugal
• Pembrokeshire Road Trip – 5 days around glorious West Wales
• Snowdonia Road Trip – 4 road itineraries around Eryri

David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian. He is a European travel expert with over 30 years’ experience exploring Europe. He has a degree in History from Manchester University, and his work is regularly featured in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, The Times, and The Sunday Times.  David is fluent in French and Welsh, and can also converse in Italian, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Czech and Polish.

The Ultimate South of France Road Trip Itinerary (2 Weeks)

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Here’s the Best Road Trip South of France Itinerary

The South of France is the perfect French holiday destination. There are many great places to visit in Southern France , the scenery is always beautiful, and the food and culture are hard to beat.

This area of France has a wonderful climate with long warm summer days stretching through to September and October. Winters in Southern France, especially along the Mediterranean coast, are always mild.

The best way to explore Southern France is by car. This South of France road trip itinerary from Toulouse to Nice (or vice-versa) covers the French regions of Occitanie and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. This Southern France road trip itinerary lasts two weeks, and it is a good itinerary for first-timers in Southern France who love history, sightseeing, outdoor activities, and great food.

This road trip south of France is one of the best road trips in France . Read more about road-tripping in France:

Southern France Road Trip Overview

• Start: Toulouse
• Finish: Nice
• Duration: 14 days
• Suggested route: Toulouse – Narbonne – Arles – Camargue – Aix-en-Provence – Cassis – Cannes – Nice
• Total distance: 751 Km, 8.5 hours drive in total
• Region covered: Occitanie and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
• Best for: history, sightseeing, nature, small towns, food & wine

This South of France road trip itinerary starts from  Toulouse , the capital city of the Occitanie region. Toulouse is easy to reach by train from Paris or Bordeaux. The journey from Paris to Toulouse by train takes around 4 hours while Bordeaux to Toulouse by train is only 2 hours.

Toulouse also has one of the major airports in France . Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS) has regular and seasonal international flights from Europe, Africa, and America – Click here for flight times and rates to Toulouse .

TIP: If you are looking for a road trip from Paris to South of France, here’s the perfect road trip itinerary for you .

South France Road Trip Map

Click here to see this South France Road Trip Map on Google

South of France Road Trip Itinerary

For this South of France roadtrip, you don’t need the car until day 2, so if you are taking a South of France driving holiday in a hire car, wait until then to pick up your rental car in Toulouse. Click here for our best tips for renting a car in France .

Click here to rent your car in Toulouse

Day 0 | Arrival at Toulouse

Arrive at Toulouse the day before the start of this road trip South France. For your two nights in Toulouse, the Boutique Hotel SOCLO  is comfortable, beautiful, and very central. Its swimming pool and garden are ideal for the warmest days in Southern France.

Click here to book your stay at Boutique Hotel Soclo

Day 1 | Toulouse

Located in the Southwest of France, between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, Toulouse is the fourth largest city in France. Boasting a rich historical heritage and sumptuous monuments, the famous “Pink City” always ranks among the most beautiful cities in France .

Cradle of aviation and space, Toulouse is ranked among the most advanced technology parks in terms of research. With many elegant mansions, historical buildings, museums, and monuments, Toulouse welcomes many students and tourists each year, making the city very lively and an excellent base to explore the region.

The list of interesting things to visit in Toulouse includes:

• Toulouse free walking tour
• Place du Capitole
• Basilique Saint-Sermin
• Toulouse bike tour
• La Cité de l’Espace
• The banks of the River Garonne
• La Maison de la Violette
• Halle de la Machine (exhibition hall of performance machines)
• Nocturnes at Marché Victor Hugo (Thursday night)

TIP: with this Toulouse City Card , enjoy free entrance to museums along with discounts at dozens of participating partners. Travel for free on city buses, trams, and the metro, save money on cruises, boat rental, and much more!

Day 2 | Toulouse – Carcassonne – Narbonne

It’s time to hit the road and drive to Narbonne, the next stop of this South of France trip. The drive from Toulouse – Narbonne via the A61 highway is straightforward and only takes 1.5 hours.

If you are not in a hurry, stop for a couple of hours at Carcassonne to admire one of the most beautiful medieval towns in France . The Cité de Carcassonne is listed UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the top sights of the Cathar Country .

For your stay in Narbonne , book two nights at Hôtel La Résidence . Set in an elegant 19th building well located to the Canal de la Robine, with restaurants and public parking nearby, Hôtel La Résidence offers everything you could expect for a perfect stay in Narbonne.

Click here to book your stay in Hôtel La Résidence

Day 3 | Narbonne

Located in the Aude department, in the Occitanie region , Narbonne is a touristy city thanks to its 5 km of thin sand at Narbonne-Plage . It is also a city with a rich history that goes back to Roman times (118 BC) and an excellent base to explore the Massif de la Clape and the Fontfroide Abbey.

The Canal de la Robine is one of France’s oldest canals, and it separates the Historical Center and the Cité district in central Narbonne. Here, you will see vestiges of Antiquity, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and Narbonne’s Age of Gold at the end of the 19th century.

The list of interesting things to visit in Narbonne includes:

• Stroll around the Old Town
• Visit the Cathédrale Saint-Just-et-Saint-Pasteur
• Visit the Archaeological Museum of Narbonne
• Visit the Musée Lapidaire de Narbonne
• Explore the Musée Roman Horréum (ancient Roman galleries)
• Beach day at Narbonne-Plage
• Sail the Canal de la Robine on an electric boat (no boating license required).

Day 4 | Arles

After three days in the Occitanie region, this road trip Southern France moves to Provence. Provence is one of France’s favorite destinations and a must on any Southern France itinerary. With gorgeous towns such as Cassis, Grasse, St Remy, and Arles and stunning countryside, you can see why it remains one of the most popular destinations in France to visit.

Start the day early with a coffee and drive to Arles , where you will spend one night. For your stay in Arles, book at L’Hotel Particulier , a charming private mansion built in the 18th century and lovingly renovated in the center of Arles. L’Hotel Particulier offers stylish rooms with comfortable beds, beautiful floral gardens, a pool, and private parking.

Click here to book your stay at L’Hotel Particulier

Located in the heart of Provence, Arles is always a favorite. Arles has it all: an interesting Roman heritage, beautiful 17th-century mansions, mazy streets, modern museums, and the wide rolling Rhône River. When the temperatures are warm, all the café-terraces and restaurants are full of locals and tourists, creating a lively atmosphere.

Arles was also the base for Paul Gauguin and Van Gogh. Here, Van Gogh painted some of his most famous masterpieces.

The list of interesting things to visit in Arles includes:

• Arènes d’Arles
• Roman Theater
• Arles through Van Gogh: Espace Van Gogh & Fondation Van Gogh
• Abbey of Montmajour
• Church and Cloister St Trophime
• Musée Départamentale Arles Antique
• Les Alyscamps (Roman necropolis)

Days 5 and 6 | The Camargue

From Arles, this south of France itinerary 14 days takes a detour for the sole reason of visiting the Camargue. The Camargue Regional Natural Park is the largest wetland in France, covering a surface of ​​100,000 hectares. It is famous worldwide for its stunning landscapes, lakes, and exceptional fauna.

Located on the axis of migration of birds from northern Europe to Africa, this area is also home to one of the main nesting sites for pink flamingos in France. But above all, the Camargue is an area for breeding Camargue horses and bulls! Here, bulls and horses live in semi-freedom, most often in herds, watched over by herdsmen on horseback.

From Arles, take the road D570 to Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer . Considered the capital of the Camargue, Les Saintes is a little corner of paradise with beautiful beaches, wild nature, and some places of interest.

After four days on the road, it’s time to relax for a couple of days in one of France’s most beautiful natural regions! For your stay in the Camargue, book two nights at the Hotel La Tramontane . The hotel offers individually-decorated, airy rooms which lead to the outdoor swimming pool, the garden, and a private pond.

Click here to book your stay in Hotel La Tramontane

To get the most out of this natural paradise, book this guided safari in a convertible 4×4 , which starts from Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. If you prefer to explore the Camargue from the water, rent a boat (with or without a skipper) at Port Camargue.

Day 7 | Aix-en-Provence

Start the day early and enjoy a last breakfast in the gardens of Hotel La Tramontane. Back to Arles, take the N113 road direction to Aix-en-Provence , the next stop of this Southern France road trip.

For a unique stay in Aix-en-Provence, book a night at the  Hotel des Augustins , a former 12th-century convent just off the famous Cours Mirabeau in the heart of the Old Town. The hotel features spacious rooms combining historic and modern features and a magnificent lobby.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel des Augustins

Aix-en-Provence   is the typical Provencal city and a wonderful place to explore in Southern France. Aix’s historic center, with Italian influences, boasts beautiful architecture and pretty squares adorned with stone fountains. Aix is also known for its traditional markets. The Aix-en-Provence markets are worth exploring for their colorful stalls and delicious local products.

The list of fun things to do in Aix-en-Provence includes:

• Stroll around the Old Tour
• Aix-en-Provence markets walking tour with tastings
• A coffee break at Cours Mirabeau
• The Mazarin neighborhood
• Paul Cézanne’s workshop
• Granet Museum (art museum)
• Taste the famous  calissons  (Aix’s typical sweets)
• E-bike tour of Montagne Sainte-Victoire

TIP: Don’t miss this 3-hour gourmet walking tour in Aix-en-Provence’s Old Town!

Days 8 and 9 | Cassis

From Aix-en-Provence, drive to Cassis , the last Provencal destination of this South of France itinerary by car. For your stay in Cassis, book two nights at Le Jardin d’Emile . This characteristic Provence-style house has the perfect location by the beach with a short walk to the port/town. Le Jardin d’Emile offers uniquely decorated rooms, each with a different color and atmosphere, a garden, and an outdoor terrace overlooking Cape Canaille.

Click here to book your stay in Le Jardin d’Emile

Cassis  is a cute fishing town located on one of the sides of the  Parc National des Calanques de Marseille-Cassis . This colorful town near  Marseille , so typical of Provence, is one of the best coastal towns in France , perfect for a couple of relaxing days by the Mediterranean Sea.

Spend day 8 exploring Cassis. The town is dominated by a castle built in the 8th century, and it is renowned for its trails running along the Cap Canaille, its round pebble beaches, and a little bit further, its creeks and their majestic cliffs plunging into deep blue water (Calanques). There’s also an adorable little port lined with multicolored buildings, cafés, and delicious restaurants offering bouillabaisse, seafood, and fish dishes.

On day 9, you can take a day trip to Marseille – here’s a list of the best things to do in Marseille . You can also explore the Calanques of Cassis on foot or on a catamaran tour.

Suggested tours and activities:

• Calanques National Park sea kayaking tour
• Calanques Cassis Hike: Port-Miou, Port-Pin & En-Vau
• From Marseille: 5-hour catamaran tour with lunch
• Calanques & Viewpoints guided tour with mountain e-bike
• Rent a boat, with or without a skipper, in Cassis

Days 10 and 11 | Cannes

The last days of this South France road trip are spent in Côte d’Azur, also known as French Riviera . Côte d’Azur is well-known for its beaches and coves, impressive views, azure water, and for being a playground for the wealthy. The French Riviera is also home to pretty towns and villages, and there’s a vibrant cultural scene, especially in the summer.

From Cassis, drive to Cannes , where you will spend two nights. For your stay in Cannes, book at Hotel Croisette Beach Cannes Mc Gallery . Located in central Cannes, 150m far from the famous La Croisette beach, this hotel offers the best of the French Riviera: stylish and comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, a restaurant with sea views, and a private beach at an extra cost.

Click here to book your stay in Hotel Croisette Beach Cannes Mc Gallery

Known for its luxurious accommodations and shopping, as well as for the world-famous Cannes Film Festival, Cannes truly is a dream destination for many travelers. Cannes is the kind of place you visit when you want to relax and enjoy some luxury. With its stunning beaches, warm weather, and convenient location close to Nice, this is where the stars go for a holiday.

Use the first day in Cannes to visit the city. The list of fun things to do in Cannes includes:

• Cannes free walking tour
• Explore Le Suquet (Cannes’ oldest neighborhood)
• La Croix des Gardes neighborhood
• The Old Port
• La Croisette Walkway
• Sandy beaches
• Villa Rothschild

For your second day, you can take a relaxing catamaran tour with lunch or drive to one of the many great places to visit on the French Riviera near Cannes:

• Juan-les-Pins
• Boat trip to the Calanques d’Esterel
• Mandelieu-la-Napoule
• Private boat trip to Lérins Islands and Cap d’Antibes

Days 12, 13, and 14 | Nice

The last stop of this road trip South of France is Nice , the capital of the French Riviera. For your stay in Nice, book three nights at the  Hotel La Pérouse Nice Baie des Anges . This 4-star hotel is nestled into the Colline du Château, and it comes with Nice’s best view over the Baie des Anges. Rooms are huge, with elegant Mediterranean décor, and some of them also come with a private balcony with great ocean views. 

Click here to book your stay at Hotel La Pérouse Nice Baie des Anges

In Nice , take your time to explore the Old Town, taste some provençal specialties, and, of course, have a stroll on the famous  Promenade des Anglais ! Nice also has some of the  best French Riviera beaches , and their turquoise waters are calling for a dip.

For your first two days in Nice, we recommend this  Nice 2-day itinerary , which also explores the colorful neighboring town of Villefranche-sur-Mer . For your last day in the city, take one of these best day trips from Nice . We recommend Éze Village and Menton , but all the places on the list are lovely.

So, what are you waiting for? Book this South of France road trip itinerary today!

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Home » Itineraries » South of France Itinerary

South of France Itinerary

It’s almost impossible not to love France. But between business trips and personal trips, we hadn’t made it out of the northern part of the country…until now. This 10 day South of France itinerary took us through small towns and larger cities, to Roman ruins, lush vineyards, seaside retreats, and to all the local Provence markets we could possibly want. The first five days of the trip were done using Avignon as a base and traveling via public transportation. For the last five days of the trip, we rented a car and used Saint-Remy de Provence as a base.

10 Days in the South of France

Getting to southern france, days 1 & 2: avignon, day 3: nimes, day 4: arles, day 5: markets of aix-en-provence, day 6: roussillon and beyond, day 7: cotes du rhone, day 8: pont du gard and uzes, day 9: cassis, day 10: saint-remy de provence and beyond, provence travel tips.

The two main ways to travel to Avignon are by flying into Paris or Marseille. From Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris, you can take the TGV train to Avignon’s TGV station and then transfer to the city center (about 3 hours). Or, you can fly into Marseille and take a local train (30-60 min, depending on the train).

Our first day exploring Avignon brought a stop at the bustling indoor Les Halles market. Even if you’re not buying groceries, this is a great place to acquaint yourself with one of the most important things in Provence—the food. Sample some goat cheese, breathe in the olives, and grab a tart and a glass of white wine for a light lunch. If it’s Saturday morning, don’t miss the cooking demonstration.

In the afternoon, we strolled through the lovely Place de l’Horloge on the way to a tour at the Palace of the Popes . While we didn’t strictly need a guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site , it was a great way to see areas that aren’t otherwise open to the public, and the view from the roof is worth it.

After our tour, we headed a few steps across the plaza to the Musee du Petit Palais . It contains a world-class collection of Renaissance works, all dealing with Christian themes. We capped off our day with tea at the famous La Mirande hotel.

Our second full day in Provence was just as full as the first. We visited the Parc Rocher des Doms, a sprawling local park with beautiful views near the Palace of the Popes. From the park, it was an easy walk to Avignon’s famous bridge, Pont Saint-Bénézet, which only partially crosses the Rhone thanks to the erosion that comes with regular flooding.

We also wandered the Rue des Teinturiers, a tree-lined street with an unexpected complement of canals and waterwheels. This area is home to a number of shops and galleries as well as the affordable and un-touristy La Cave des Pas Sages wine bar.

If you have access to a car or other transportation, a visit to Manguin distillery just across the river is a fun outing. Saturday morning tours (in French) show the production of brandies and liqueurs and the pear orchard where bottles seem to grow on trees. With its mix of culture, history, and delicious things to eat and drink, Avignon is undoubtedly one of the best cities in Southern France.

Skip the line at the Palace of the Popes, see other Avignon highlights, and go wine tasting on this half-day tour of the city .

Where to Stay in Avignon

• On a pedestrian street in walking distance to all the sites, Garlande Hôtel Avignon Centre offers a great breakfast and helpful staff ( Read reviews and book a room )
• A central location with views of the Palace of the Popes and a hearty breakfast make the Hotel de l’Horloge a winner ( Read reviews and book a room )

A quick train ride from Avignon, Nimes was our second stop on our 10-day South of France itinerary. The city dates back to Roman times, which is obvious by its centerpiece, the Arena of Nimes . Built in 70 AD, the arena still hosts bullfights and other events. Another popular site in Nimes is the Maison Carree, one of the best-preserved temples in the Roman Empire, which is amazing when you consider that it is over 2000 years old. Nearby, the city’s indoor market makes a great option for lunch.

Before leaving Nimes, we had two more stops. The first was the Musée des Beaux-Arts of Nimes , a fantastic museum featuring a collection of 3600 impressive works of fine art and sculpture from Roman times to the Old Masters. Then it was time to get outdoors and spend some time at the Jardins de la Fontaine, an 18th-century public park modeled after the gardens at Versailles . It was gorgeous, and we spent way more time than was reasonable, but the park was an unexpected highlight of our South of France trip.

This 5-hour guided tour of Nimes, Pont du Gard, and Uzes will let you see the sights near Avignon the easy way.

Another easy day trip from Avignon, Arles is one of the most picturesque places to visit in Provence. Splashed in blues, yellows, and greens, Arles makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a Van Gogh painting for good reason—you have. All over the city, you can see the exact spots where Van Gogh painted some of his greatest works, along with replicas of the works and some of the story behind them.

Other spots not to miss include the Arles Amphitheater and Alyscamps (a Roman necropolis) , both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. If you visit on a Wednesday or Saturday, the market on the ring road will be impossible to miss. Stroll through to see the cuisines of France, Spain, Italy, and North Africa all on display.

You can’t travel to Southern France without visiting Aix-en-Provence. Luckily, the alluring city is connected by bus to several towns in the region; line 23 took us there from Avignon in just over an hour.

A visit to Aix is less about how many things there are to see than it is just about experiencing the joie de vivre of Provence.

There are attractions in Aix like the city’s many fountains, Cathedrale St. Sauveur, or Place d’Albertas, an 18th-century mansion. But we spent our day in Aix-en-Provence strolling through the five markets—the farmer’s market, the flower market, the antiques market, the fruit and vegetable market, and the textiles market—that were open in the city’s center that day.

When we were done gawking and tasting, we wandered under Aix’s beautiful plane trees, bought some macarons, and snagged a place for a late lunch at La Fromagerie du Passage.

Where to Stay in Aix-en-Provence

We opted to visit Aix as a day trip, but it’s a popular place to stay overnight.

• The 5-star Renaissance Aix-en-Provence Hotel was created to be an art gallery. It features a garden terrace, a lounge bar, and the level of service you would expect from the Renaissance brand ( Read reviews and book a room )
• A 5-minute walk from the center of Aix, the Grand Hotel Roi Rene by MGallery has the comforts of a big hotel in a boutique atmosphere ( Read reviews and book a room )

After picking up our rental car at the Avignon TGV train station, we were off on our journey deeper into the Vaucluse region. The first stop on this part of our South of France itinerary was only an hour’s drive from Avignon– Roussillon , a tiny village of less than 1300 people that known for its amazing ochre deposits.

We stopped at the small morning market in Roussillon and hiked along the streets that crisscross the hilltop, winding past small shops and homes and stopping for the sweeping views of the valley below. The ochre cliffs are also not to be missed here, whether you opt for the 30- or 60-minute walk. We paused briefly at the town’s unique cemetery before continuing our Provence road trip.

A short drive led us to Abbaye Notre-Dame de Senanque . In the summer, the field in front of this 12th-century abbey is full of brilliant purple lavender. It’s beautiful on the outside, but tours of the interior are also available. Stop for photos and to breathe deeply before getting back on the road.

Backtracking a bit on D177 took us to the breathtaking hillside village of Gordes . If it’s mealtime, it may be worth a quick stop in town, but we found the view from a bit farther away to be the ideal way to experience Gordes. After taking more pictures than were necessary here, we were bound for our new home base of Saint-Remy de Provence.

Where to Stay in Saint-Remy de Provence

• Hotel Gounod is a beautifully-restored hotel with rich furnishings and a lovely courtyard. It feels like a French-country retreat ( Read reviews and book a room )
• With a huge courtyard and garden, pool, and inviting rooms the Hotel de l’Image is an ideal base in the middle of Saint Remy ( Read reviews and book a room )

Day 7 was Cotes du Rhone day!

The Cotes du Rhone wine road runs over hills and valleys through this part of France , passing numerous vineyards and wineries along the way. We started off at Domaine de Mourchon for some full-bodied reds and drove Le Col de la Chaine Mountain Pass to Domaine Saint Amant for an afternoon wine tasting.

Stops in Suzette and Gigondas and at several other wineries made this a perfect day. We write in much more detail about the wine road here . If you’re a lover of French wine or gorgeous scenery, make this part of your trip.

Don’t want to drive? See prices, reviews, and details for this 5-hour Cotes du Rhone tour from Avignon .

After two days full of driving in Vaucluse and the Cotes du Rhone, we decided to take day 8 a little easier with only two destinations. Though the road changes designations a number of times, the 45-minute route from Saint-Remy de Provence to Pont du Gard is fairly straightforward, and the bridge is very well signposted.

Another UNESCO site like the stunning aqueduct in Segovia , the Pont du Gard is an extremely well-preserved aqueduct that once carried water from a spring in the town of Uzes to the Roman colony at what is now Nimes. It spans the Gardon River where people still swim and kayak beneath its arches. After seeing the visitor’s center and exploring the bridge from every possible angle, it was time for another drive.

We took a quick road trip down D981 to Uzes. When we arrived, it seemed that the whole town was consumed by market day. In addition to the market stalls, regular businesses set up shop outdoors, and all the sidewalk cafes were filled with people enjoying the spring afternoon. Several Medieval buildings still stand, but the real appeal of the town is wandering its old lanes and squares, doing a bit of window shopping, and enjoying the atmosphere.

Though it’s impossible to compare all the places we visited, Cassis was certainly one of our favorite stops on our southern France travel itinerary. Not only does Cassis have stunning natural features but its location right on the water couldn’t be more ideal.

From Saint Remy, it’s a bit of a drive on the A7 and A55 that send you through Marseille, so don’t attempt this around rush hour. From there, the A50 will send you into Cassis. The whole drive takes about 1.5 hours, but it’s worth it.

In Cassis, we enjoyed a lunch of fresh fish and local wine while staring out at the boats on the harbor. In the afternoon, we took a boat cruise of the calanques (the area’s amazing limestone cliffs that plunge into the sea), followed by the curvy La Route des Cretes drive, which sends you to a vantage point high above the town.

If you’re coming from Marseille, consider this full-day tour of Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, and Cassis. A half-day tour of Cassis is also available from Aix-en-Provence. If you want to see the calanques up close in a unique way, see reviews and prices for a snorkel tour .

On our last day in town, it was finally time to visit the two main sites of Saint-Remy de Provence – Saint-Paul Asylum and the Glanum ruins. The asylum was home to Vincent van Gogh for a little over a year in 1889 and 1890, shortly before his death. Visitors can see van Gogh’s room and the settings of many of the works he completed while he was a patient here.

Essentially across the street from the asylum are the Roman ruins at Glanum. Over 2000 years old, most of the ruins of the ancient town are foundations of buildings, so a visit here requires a bit of imagination. There are a few great structures, however, including an arch, columns of a temple from 20 BC, and the Mausoleum of the Julii, one of the best-preserved mausoleums of the Roman era.

From Saint Remy, we headed north to Vaison la Romaine where we explored the Roman ruins of the town as well as the market.

Our final stop before returning our rental car in Avignon took us to the town of Orange. As with several of the other stops on our Provence itinerary, Orange is renowned for its Roman architecture. The city’s main site, the Ancient Theater of Orange , is still well-preserved and used for occasional performances. The original statue of the Emperor Augustus still looks down on the crowd from the 2000-year-old stage.

Check prices for hotels in Provence

Driving : Certain places in Provence are easier to see via a rental car than by public transportation. The good news is that—unlike many places in Europe—there is an ample supply of automatic transmission cars at reasonable prices. We’ve rented with many different companies in the past, but we found that Auto Europe’s comparison tool helped us save money in France. Before you go, we recommend getting a copy of our book, The Essential Guide to Driving Abroad , which demystifies and simplifies the process of renting overseas. If you are considering a trip, be sure our check out our French Driving Guide , with lots of practical tips.

Travel insurance : Provence and the South of France is an amazing destination! While the country is extremely safe, car accidents can happen. For this trip, we bought travel insurance from Travel Guard because it’s always good to be prepared.

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Epic South Of France Itinerary: 14 Days With Tips [2024]

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 89 mins read
• Post last modified: February 29, 2024
• Post comments: 0 Comments

This itinerary will take you to the beautiful corners of southern France . Don’t expect to relax on the beach or visit the French Riviera. South of France has other spectacular places that you need to explore.

I traveled to the south of France many times , visiting all the places on this itinerary. And it always excited me – it’s truly the most beautiful part of France . After seeing it all, I’ve put together this itinerary based on my experience so you can see the highlights, too.

We’ll visit the most beautiful  French cities ,  medieval towns , a  miracle town , natural wonders , and end even the  highest European peak , Mount Blanc.

Let’s get started!

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

Overview Of The South Of France Itinerary For 14 Days

Here is an overview of what you can expect from this itinerary in southern France. I’ve designed a basic 14-day road trip , which you can follow.

If you only have 10 days or less , scroll down to see more tips and places I recommend visiting on a 10-day trip.

Map Of South Of France Itinerary

Here is a map of this 14-day road trip through southern France. Save it and follow it once you travel:

Excited To Visit French Riviera?

Don’t be disappointed if you expected a few places from the French Riviera and Provence in this itinerary. I’ve also designed a full  French Riviera itinerary  for 7 days for you. So, if you want to visit the French Riviera, take that itinerary.

How To Get To Southern France

You can get south of France by plane, train, or bus .

This itinerary starts in Bordeaux , in the southwestern part of France. The fastest and most convenient way to reach it is to fly.

Flying To South Of France

Bordeaux has an airport with good international connections, so you can reach it by plane.

The biggest airports in southern France are :

✈ Lyon ✈ Nice ✈ Marseille

If you have trouble finding good plane tickets to Bordeaux, you can also fly to these airports instead.

➡ Check out flights to Bordeaux with great deals here.

Getting To Southern France By Train

You can also take trains if you’re visiting southern France from other French cities or neighboring countries (like Spain , Germany, or Switzerland ). It’s fast, convenient, and often cheap to travel on the French TGV – high-speed trains .

➡ Get the best train deals to southern France & Bordeaux via Trainline.

Getting To South Of France By Bus

Alternatively, you can also take a bus to get to Bordeaux . It’s a slow option, but it’s the cheapest. So it’s great if you’re on a budget.

The most common bus companies covering routes in southern France are Flixbus and the local OUI French company.

➡ Check out bus connections to Bordeaux here.

How To Get Around Southern France & Make This Itinerary

The best way to get around southern France is by car . That’s why I’ve also designed this itinerary as a road trip . It’s difficult and time-consuming to get to some of the places by bus or train. You would waste a lot of time changing trains and buses .

With a car, you’ll have a lot of flexibility and get to the most beautiful places, which aren’t accessible by trains and buses.

So I recommend renting a car in Bordeaux on day 3. of this itinerary. Rent it for 11 days and return it to Lyon on day 13.

RENT A CAR FOR YOUR ITINERARY

Rent A Car Via Discover Cars – best prices and big selection of car rentals. PRO TIP: Check ratings of the company you choose before booking ( ratings can be off ). Go on Google, see ratings of the car rental company, then book on Discover Cars.

0. DAY: ARRIVE IN BORDEAUX

Welcome to France, the most visited country in Europe . It’s time to explore its southern part with this itinerary.

You might have  arrived in Paris  on your flight. Or you’ve been exploring other countries around France and want to continue to the south of France. You can  take a train to Bordeaux .

Today, check in to your accommodation and get your first impression of Bordeaux. Then, you can head to the riverside and the promenade for a nice dinner and enjoy the nightlife.

Evening Cruise With A Glass Of Wine

One activity I recommend for tonight is hopping on a  cruise on the River Garonne . You’ll see the city from a different angle and learn some interesting things about it.

Of course, a  glass of wine  won’t be missing. It’s a good start to your trip.

➡ Book the cruise in Bordeaux here.

Where To Stay In Bordeaux: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

HOTEL MADAME – budget-friendly hotel HOTEL DE SEZE & SPA – mid-range hotel HOTEL SINGULIER BORDEAUX – luxury hotel VILLA REALE – luxury apartment

1. DAY: BORDEAUX

Bordeaux, the  world’s wine capital , is the city that truly deserves to be the first one on this itinerary. It surprised me in many ways, so let’s explore it together.

Bordeaux is mainly known for its delicious wine and is named the  City of Art and History . Once you arrive, you’ll first notice the spectacular  Miroir D’Eau  in front of the  Place de la Bourse . The Water Mirror is  the largest reflecting pool  in the world.

Around 80% of the land around Bordeaux is used for  wine production . Today, you’ll get to taste some of them.

Let’s see what Bordeaux has to offer.

Sighseeing In Bordeaux

🔆 Water Mirror (Miroir D’Eau) 🔆 Place de la Bourse 🔆 La Grosse Chloche 🔆 Bordeaux Cathedral 🔆 Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux 🔆 Quais de Bordeaux 🔆 La Cité du Vin

🔆 Place De La Bourse

Jacques Gabriel, Louis XV’s favorite architect , designed the entrance to the old city of Bourdeaux, Place de la Bourse.

Before entering, admire the extensive  Water Mirror  and cool yourself during the hot summer months.

🔆 La Grosse Cloche

The big bell above the former dungeon from the 18th century is super impressive. Nowadays, you won’t hear the bell as locals only use it on special occasions such as Bastille Day . The tower building alone is beautiful, with nice ornaments, so check it out.

In the past, it hosted a small prison . Locals kept offenders inside closed with a 10-centimeter-thick door for months.

🔆 Bordeaux Cathedral

Bordeaux Cathedral, one of the most impressive buildings in the city, had hard times during the  French Revolution .

Like other important French buildings, it lost its decorations and was damaged significantly. Walk up to the  Tour Pey Berland bell tower  for great city views.

🔆 Grand Théâtre De Bordeaux

Built in 1780, it had the original French monarchy style. After the revolution, they changed the way it looks now.

The best way to experience it is to see a show by the  Bordeaux National Opera , consisting of 110 orchestra musicians, 37 choral artists, and 38 dancers.

🔆 Quais De Bordeaux

Once you come out of the old town, walk alongside the  Bordeaux promenade  until you reach the wine museum. There are many restaurants and cafes , so stop and have a little break on the way.

I loved walking through the promenade; it has a great atmosphere.

🔆 La Cité Du Vin

Perhaps the main reason for visiting Bordeaux is its spectacular wine museum. The building has been constructed in the  shape of a wine carafe  or, as professional sommeliers would say, a decanter.

Inside, you’ll learn about the  history of wine , its  production , and various places where it’s produced. After the tour, stop at the bar to taste the local wine you’ve seen in the museum.

It’s one of the best experiences in Bordeaux. Even if you don’t drink wine, come to see the museum building . It’s cool.

➡ Get a skip-the-line ticket to the wine museum + wine tasting after here.

Bordeaux Guided Walking Tour

Join this guided tour of Bordeaux with a local guide if you want to learn more about its history and hear exciting stories

Don’t forget to try  ‘caneles’  – a local  French dessert  that originated here. It’s a rum and vanilla-flavored pastry with custard cream in the middle and a caramelized crust.

Enjoy Bordeaux today with everything it offers.

Tomorrow, we’ll stay in the region and do a beautiful half-day trip visiting a famous winery and having a picnic in the French countryside .

2. DAY: BORDEAUX ⇒ HALF-DAY WINE TOUR

Good morning to Bordeaux. I hope you slept well and didn’t drink too much wine yesterday :D… Because we are heading to one of the most famous  wine locations  in southern France,  St. Emilion village .

We’ll do a  half-day tour of the wine yards  with  wine tasting . Of course, a  French picnic  with stunning views of the French countryside won’t be missing.

The  Romans  brought the  wine-making tradition  to this region in the 2nd century. During these guided tours, you’ll  experience real wine production  and taste some of the world’s best wine classes.

Visit St. Emilion & Wine-Tasting With French Picnic

You recommend joining one of these excursions from Bordeaux today. You can visit  St. Emilion village  to learn about its history and wine production. After, you’ll experience  wine tasting  in one of the local chateaus.

Or you can  visit 2 different wineries , modern and traditional. Then, enjoy great  wine tasting  and  picnic in the French countryside .

Book one of the excursions if you want to have fun on this day.  Transportation  from and back to Bordeaux  is included .

3. DAY: BORDEAUX ⇒ DUNES DE PILAT ⇒ LOURDES

Let’s drive further south today. We’ll  sleep in a miracle town  tonight (just my internal name for the place). But before, we’ll drive to see a natural wonder.

In the morning, drive from Bordeaux to the  Dunes de Pilat . First drive direction  Bassin d’Arcachon . Follow the signs with the name  ‘Biscarosse/Dune du Pyla.’  

The  car park  is located just 400m from the dunes. So stop the car and head to the dunes.

Distance Bordeaux ⇒ Dunes De Pilat by car: approx. 1 hour (67 km/42 miles)

Dunes De Pilat

Dunes de Pilat is  the tallest sand dune in Europe . It’s situated  60 km (37 miles) from Bordeaux  in the famous Archacon Bay . It gets 2 million visitors per year.

Surf down on a bodyboard and have fun with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean .

The dune is 500 wide, 107 high, and almost 3 km (1.8 miles) long, so you have a lot to explore.

Drive To Lourdes

Once you have enough of the dunes, head further south to our destination for today. It’s a little miracle town of Lourdes at the foothills of the Pyrenees mountains .

Check in to your accommodation in the evening. Tomorrow, we’ll have the whole day to explore the town and its hidden gems.

Distance Dunes De Pilat ⇒ Lourdes by car: approx. 3 hours (265 km/165 miles)

Where To Stay In Lourdes: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

LOGIS HOTEL CASTEL DE MIRAMBEL – budget-friendly hotel GRAND HOTEL MODERNE – mid-range hotel GRAND HOTEL GALLIA & SPA – luxury hotel

4. DAY: LOURDES

I fell in love with this town after visiting. It has a special charm, and the atmosphere is great.

Lourdes is one of the most famous  pilgrimage destinations in Europe  and the entire world. It’s because  the Virgin Mary appeared  in the local cave 18 times to the 14-year-old peasant girl  Bernadette .

However, nobody believed her when she saw the Virgin Mary. Eventually, they even  imprisoned her  because they believed she was lying to the authorities and making fun of them.

Nevertheless, Bernadette persisted and stood up for the truth, which made the place so beloved among visitors and pilgrims nowadays.

The Story Of Bernadette & Virgin Mary Apparitions

One day, Mary asked Bernadette to dig into the local cave to find a  natural spring . People soon realized that it had  healing effects , and news spread it to the entire world. It’s how Lourdes became a famous  pilgrimage destination .

In 1863, locals created a statue of  the Virgin Mary  on the exact spot  in the cave  where she appeared.

In January 1860, the Catholic Church finally declared that the apparitions of the Virgin Mary were true. Later on, they built the basilica to honor the apparitions.

Nowadays, the  Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes and the healing effects of Lourdes water from the local spring  gets millions of visitors yearly, including many pilgrims.

After, many of them head off for the famous  Camino de Santiago pilgrimage  in Spain (which I completed, and it was an experience of a lifetime).

Signtseeing In Lourdes

🔆 The Sancutary Of Our Lady Of Lourdes 🔆 Château Fort 🔆 Pic Du Jer 🔆 Le Cachot 🔆 Moulin De Boly 🔆 Les Halles Market

Head to the Sanctuary of Our Lady in the morning and experience the special atmosphere.

After, walk behind to see the cave with the healing spring.

Walk through the old town and go up to the spectacular  Château Fort . The castle stands on the hill overlooking the whole town, so you’ll get the  best views .

For extra stunning views,  take a funicular  to the top of  Pic du Jer  in the afternoon.

Get local snacks at the  Les Halles market  before seeing the rest of the sites.

Don’t forget to visit  Le Cachot , where the family lived after Bernadette saw the Virgin Mary. This room used to be a  prison  and was the place where Bernadette prayed to the Virgin Mary.

Afterward, head to the  Moulin de Boly , which was the house where Bernadette’s family used to live.

Candelit Procession In The Evening

In the evening, you can join the  Candelit procession march with candles  from the cave with the statue of the Virgin Mary towards the sanctuary. It  starts at 9 pm  and takes about  90 minutes . Light up your candle and pray/wish for something to become true.

It takes place  from April until October  every year.

Enjoy Lourdes, and have fun! Tomorrow, we’ll continue visiting other highlights of southern France.

5. DAY: LOURDES ⇒ CARCASSONNE ⇒ TOULOUSE

Today, we’ll visit one of southern France’s biggest and most beautiful cities, Toulouse . But before, let’s explore a charming medieval town on the way.

Pack your bags in the morning and set off to Carcassonne.

Distance Lourdes ⇒ Carcassonne by car: approx. 2 hours & 45 minutes (261 km/162 miles)

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is  one of the strongest fortifications in France,  and it was very difficult to defeat in the past, even during the 100 Years’ War.

Its city  walls are 3km long  (1.9 miles) and include  52 huge towers . It became mainly famous thanks to the French poem Gustav Nadaud.

Carcassone and St. Mont Michel are one of the most beautiful French medieval castles and compete for the title of being the  most visited monument in France . The site is spectacular , and I highly recommend making a stop here.

There are 50 houses where residents live permanently within the city walls nowadays.

Carcassonne Smartphone Tour

Follow this smartphone game and learn about the history of Carcassonne on a self-guided tour.

Later on, drive to  Toulouse city.  Take your time; tomorrow, you’ll have the entire day to explore the city. Check in to your accommodation and get the first glimpse of the place.

Distance Carcassonne ⇒ Toulouse by car: approx. 1 hour & 20 minutes (95 km/59 miles)

Where To Stay In Toulouse: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

HOTEL CROIX BARAGNON – budget-friendly hotel PLAZA HOTEL CAPITOLE – mid-range hotel LE GRAND BALCON HOTEL – mid-range hotel BOUTIQUE HOTEL SOCLO – luxury hotel

6. DAY: TOULOUSE

Good morning to Toulouse, known as the  ‘Pink City’ . It’s because locals used  pale-colored bricks  in the past to build the buildings. Some claim that these houses turn pink during  sunset .

It’s also the fourth largest city in France and offers you a lot of art. 

One of the main reasons to stay in this city for a day is to explore the  headquarters of European Airbus  and the  French space agency . Thanks to that, Toulouse has become Europe’s  largest center for aerospace .

You’ll have the whole day to wander around the city. Below are some sightseeing suggestions for you.

Sightseeing In Toulouse

🔆 Place Du Capitol 🔆 Basilique Saint-Sernin 🔆 Toulouse Cathedral 🔆 Canal Du Midi 🔆 Cité De l’Espace

🔆 Canal Du Midi

Canal du Midi is an impressive engineering work from the 17th century, ordered by Louis XIV – Canal des Deux Mers  (Canal of the Two Seas) . It was constructed to connect the Mediterranean with the Atlantic Ocean and is  430 km long .

Canal du Midi takes up 230 km (143 miles) from the entire stretch. It runs from Toulouse to the coastal town of Sète on the eastern Mediterranean French coast.

You can walk alongside it and enjoy the views.

🔆 Cité De l’Espace

Explore space on Earth inside this theme park. See the proper-size model of the  European Ariane 5 rocket , which has already completed 70 missions. After, watch a show inside its  planetarium .

Enjoy French Cousine In Toulouse

Then, come back to the center; try  French cassoulet , a casserole made with various types of meat, including pork, goose, duck, broth, and haricot beans. It also comes with  Toulouse sausage , the dish’s main component.

Or go for  Roquefort cheese  with a nice salad. Of course, accompany your food with delicious local  French wine .

Enjoy your evening with a glass of wine and delicious food.

7. DAY: TOULOUSE ⇒ ALBI ⇒ MARSEILLE

Today, we’re heading to the eastern coastline of southern France and the Mediterranean side. On the way, we’ll again stop to see a much-worthy charming French town, Albi .

Albi is a small medieval town unique for its red-brick buildings , old mills, and an outstanding cathedral. Walk through the tiny cobbled streets while exploring the most important sites.

Distance Toulouse ⇒ Albi by car: approx. 1 hour (76 km/47 miles)

Sightseeing In Albi

🔆 Cathedral Saint Cecile 🔆 Pont Vieux 🔆 Saint-Salvi & Collegiate Church 🔆 Albi’s Covered Market 🔆 Barbie Palace Gardens

🔆 Cathedral Saint Cecile

One thing that makes this cathedral unique and why it stands out from the others is its  fortress  design. It’ll surprise you with beautiful ornaments , carved statues, stained-glass windows, and frescos inside .

🔆 Pont Vieux

Pont Vieux, the  Old Bridge  built above the  River Tarn , makes this town so charming. It’s almost 1000 years old and was mainly built for  trading purposes . Nowadays, it’s one of Albi’s most important landmarks.

🔆 Covered Market

Head to the Albi’s covered market to smell the fresh flavors of local fruits and vegetables, meat, and delicacies.

Try some fresh French cheese with a baguette and bread. Have some lunch and feel the special atmosphere of this place.

*Note that the market is closed on Mondays .

🔆 Barbie Palace Gardens

Barbie Palace Gardens are quite similar to those in  Versailles . Except they’re much smaller. You can take some nice photos and get  panoramic views  of the town and the River Tarn.

One thing you must try when visiting Albi is the famous  ‘Earthquake’ cocktail . Toulouse-Lautrec, an alcoholic French artist from Albi, first made it. It’s a combination of cognac and absinthe.

Drive To Marseille

After you have enough exploring Albi, make your way to the Mediterranean French city , Marseille.

Again, you’ll have the entire day to explore the city tomorrow. So for now, check in to your accommodation and rest well.

In the evening, you can enjoy a glass of wine on its promenade with the views of the harbor and its stunning cathedral.

Distance Albi ⇒ Marseille by car: approx. 4 hours & 30 minutes (366 km/227 miles)

Where To Stay In Marseille: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

PLACE AUX HUILES – apartment NH COLLECTION MARSEILLE – mid-range hotel SOFITEL MARSEILLE VIEUX PORT – mid-range hotel with views of the port

8. DAY: MARSEILLE

Welcome to Marseille,  the oldest city in France , founded by the Greeks in 600 BC.

Marseille has various things to do , interesting sights, and a seaside promenade with a harbor, which gives the city a unique charm. So, let’s explore it together today.

Interesting Facts About Marseille

The city has played a vital role in history. Marseille is the city where local volunteers first sang the  French anthem . That’s why the anthem was named  ‘ La Marseillaise.’

The Vieux-Port (old port) was Marseille’s most important  economic center  in the past. It connected the city to other colonies in  North Africa , such as Morocco, Tunis, and Algeria. That is why you’ll find a significant part of the population originating from Africa.

The city is mainly famous worldwide for its soap  Savon de Marseille .

💡 FUN FACT: Savon de Marseille is traditionally made by mixing Mediterranean seawater, olive oil, and alkaline ash from sea plants. After, they heat it for a couple of days. The entire production can take up to 1 month.

Sightseeing In Marseille

🔆 Notre-Dame De La Garde  🔆 Vieux Port 🔆 Château D’If 🔆 Cathédral De La Major 🔆 MuCEM – Museum of Europe & Mediterranean Civilizations 🔆 La Panier – Oldest District

The first thing you’ll notice when arriving in Marseille is its impressive  cathedral  on the top of the hill. It was the highlight of Marseille for me. You’ll get  stunning views  from the cathedral, so don’t miss it.

The  Vieuw-Port  is the social and cultural center of the city. Head there for lunch or dinner and get local drinks.

Château d’If  is another relevant sight not to be missed. It used to be a prison, which was converted into a fortress. You’ll have to walk 1.5km to reach it. The fortress was also featured in the novel  ‘ The Count of Montecristo .

Also, take advantage of the nearby  beaches  and enjoy the Mediterranean. If you’re a  kite surfer , it might become your new  paradise , as the wind is often very strong.

Food & Drinks In Marseille

You can’t miss trying the local dish when you’re in Marseille. It’s a  fish stew  traditionally cooked by the fishermen, called  Bouillabaisse . They couldn’t sell their rockfish on the market, so they created the stew and tried to sell it this way.

Pastis  is a  traditional drink  prepared from aniseed and flavored with licorice root. Around 130 million liters of this drink are sold in France per year.

Head to the  Old Port – Vieux Port for great bars and restaurants.

Guided Tours In Marseille

I recommend the following tours in Marseille. One is a 3.5-hour bike tour (on electric bikes), on which you’ll see the city’s highlights . And the other one is a food tour . Click on the images below and book one of the tours:

9. DAY: MARSEILLE ⇒ AVIGNON

Today, we’ll go to another very significant French city from the past. It has mainly  religious importance  and is packed with history.

In the morning, take your time for a good breakfast. If you missed any sightseeing in Marseille yesterday, catch up this morning .

In the afternoon , drive up to Avignon . Check in to your accommodation in Avignon and get the first glimpse of the city. Tomorrow, you’ll have the entire day to explore it.

Distance Marseille ⇒ Avignon by car: approx. 1 hour & 30 minutes (100 km/62 miles)

Where To Stay In Avignon: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

GARLANDE HOTEL AVIGNON CENTER – budget-friendly hotel HOTEL DE L’HORLOGE – mid-range hotel LE CLOS SALUCES – luxury hotel

10. DAY: AVIGNON

Avignon, also known as the city of Popes, used to be an important religious center in the 14th century. It’s because  Pope Clement V  decided to  leave Rome  due to corruption and political problems and  establish the pope’s new base  in this French city.

This event is also historically known as the  Great Schism  when the Catholic Church and its papacy split apart. It resulted in a  rivalry between the popes in Rome and in Avignon , who fought to establish official administrative offices of the Catholic Church.

Nowadays, the city attracts visitors worldwide thanks to its rich history, medieval buildings, and great social life.

If you visit Avignon in July, don’t miss the annual  Avignon Theatre Festival . During 3 weeks, you can admire local dances, performances, and musical shows.

Let’s explore Avignon today.

Sightseeing In Avignon

🔆 Palace Of The Popes 🔆 Sur Le Pont d’Avignon 🔆 Les Halles 🔆 Museum Calvet 🔆 Palais Du Roure

The main attraction and reason I took you to Avignon is to see the  Pope’s Palace . It has brought importance to the city and played a significant role in the history of France and Europe .

The nine popes who left Rome lived in the palace. Nowadays, you can  explore their apartments  and  worship places . It has remarkable architecture and beautiful murals.

Afterward, don’t forget to check out the  Les Halles market . Even local  chefs  who have  Michelin Star restaurants  come to the market to get fresh and delicious ingredients daily. Try local food, taste some cheese, and finish with tasty wine.

Enjoy another day exploring French history and the stories from the Catholic Church in Avignon.

Avignon Guided Food Tour

If you’d like to learn more about Avignong through gastronomy and local drinks, join this guided food tour of Avignon . You’ll taste local delicacies and hear interesting stories from a local on your guided tour.

Tomorrow, we’ll continue driving up to a beautiful town at the foothill of the Alps. You’ll also get to see the  highest European mountain ,  Mount Blanc . So stay tuned for the next adventure.

11. DAY: AVIGNON ⇒ ANNECY ⇒ CHAMONIX

Let’s take a break from bigger towns packed with history and sights. It’s time to experience beautiful oases at the  foothills of the snowy Alps  and a picturesque lake. Today, we’re heading to Annecy and Chamonix.

In the morning,  drive to Annecy . Enjoy the town, visit its castle, and picnic on the lake shores , or have some  Swiss Raclette  in one of the shops.

After, drive to the alpine town Chamonix , where we’ll stay the next two nights.

Distance Avignon ⇒ Annecy by car: approx. 3 hours & 20 minutes (339 km/210 miles)

Annecy is located in southeast France and is one of the most beautiful towns. Its  lake is one of the cleanest in Europe . You can  go   paddleboarding or yachting , or take a small boat and explore the lake for a while.

Annecy also has a couple of nice  beaches . You can swim and refresh yourself in the crystal-clear lake as well.

We’re next to Switzerland , so you’ll already feel some  Swiss influence . You can try some  Raclette , a typical  Swiss melted cheese  served on a piece of bread.

Sightseeing In Annecy

🔆 Old Town 🔆 Palace De l’Île 🔆 Pont Des Amours 🔆 Lake Annecy

🔆 Explore Old Town Annecy

Annecy is also known as the  Venice of the Alps . You can get lost in its tiny streets intertwined with canals. Its colored houses only add up to this town’s whole experience and beauty.

It’s time to do some  people-watching , have ice cream, a French croissant, or a coffee. Then enjoy local shops and buy some souvenirs.

🔆 Palace De l’Île

Visit the castle from the 12th century, which used to be a  prison , a  courthouse , and a  lord’s residence  back then. Now, it’s a history museum, so if you love history, it’s the place to be in Annecy.

🔆 Pont Des Amours

The legend has it that if  two lovers kiss on the bridge , they’ll stay together forever. But don’t worry if you’re single; it has  stunning scenery , so you should also check it out.

May you meet your loved one right there.

Drive To Chamonix

Spend some time at the lake , breathing fresh air and enjoying the mountain views before heading to our destination today – Chamonix.

Chamonix is one of the most beautiful alpine towns in Europe . Check in to your accommodation, and enjoy some more Raclett or Swiss Fondue for dinner.

Tomorrow, we’ll make one of the most spectacular mountain excursions ever.

Distance Annecy ⇒ Chamonix by car: approx. 1 hour & 15 minutes (101 km/63 miles)

Where To Stay In Chamonix: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

CHALET HOTEL LE PRIEURE & SPA LES BALCONS DU SAVOY CHALET HOTEL HERMITAGE HOTEL DE L’ARVE BY HAPPY CULTURE

12. DAY: CHAMONIX & MT. BLANC

Welcome to Chamonix and the Savoy region of France.

Chamonix is a charming French town below the highest European mountain, Mount Blanc . It’s one of the most beautiful towns in Europe and offers plenty of activities to do.

One of the most famous mountain excursions why people come here is Aiguille du Midi and Mt. Blanc. Besides, you can go hiking and enjoy the Alps .

Today, I recommend visiting Aiguille du Midi and see Mt. Blanc. You’ll love it.

Aiguille Du Midi

Take a cable car from Chamonix to Aiguille du Midi. From there, you can enjoy the spectacular scenery of the French , Swiss , and Italian Alps .

Then, take a lift further and get close to Mont Blanc . From there, you’ll be able to spot Switzerland and even Italy. The views are just stunning.

Be sure to take extra layers of clothes as it’s quite cold even in summer.

See the picture below of how the Aiguille du Midi station looks like.

Step Into The Void

The Void is a  glass room with 3 glass walls  and a glass floor on the terrace of Aiguille du Midi. If you’re scared of heights, you should overcome them because that’s an incredible experience .

Standing on the top of the highest European mountains , not having the floor below you, is intimidating, but at the same time, very exciting.

Panoramic Mt. Blanc Cable Car

After you have explored the entire Aiguille du Midi station, you can continue with the panoramic cable car. It’s the highest cable car in the world and the closest you can get to Mt. Blanc, the highest European peak.

You’ll take a scenic ride and see the mountain from different angles. It’s an unforgettable experience, and the views are breathtaking .

Whenever you have enough of the views, return to Chamonix.

PRO TIP: I recommend making the entire excursion in the morning right after the cable car starts operating. This way, you’ll avoid crowds.

Activities In Chamonix

In the afternoon, you can also visit the amusement park in Chamonix. Take a ride on the thrilling Chamonix Lupe alpine coaster and have fun.

You can also do paragliding around and enjoy views of the unique surroundings.

Enjoy the town with everything it offers, and stay one more night.

13. DAY: CHAMONIX ⇒ LYON

Good morning to Chamonix. I hope you got the most out of this cute town. If you want, you can stay in the morning, go hiking, or enjoy more activities.

After that, it’s time to head to our last destination on this itinerary.

Distance Chamonix ⇒ Chamonix by car: approx. 2 hours & 40 minutes (230 km/143 miles)

Check in to your accommodation. Depending on when you arrive in the city, you can already explore some sights .

Check out the next day for sightseeing ideas. Or spend the entire day in Chamonix hiking and drive to Lyon in the evening .

Tomorrow, you’ll have the entire day to explore the city.

Where To Stay In Lyon: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

HOTEL LE ROOSEVELT LYON – mid-range hotel MHL – MAISON HOTEL LYON – boutique mid-range hotel BOSCOLO LYON HOTEL & SPA – luxury hotel

14. DAY: LYON

We’ll end our road trip in the city of Lyon. It’s the  third biggest French city  after Paris and Marseille and  the second richest city  in France.

Lyon marks the end of our itinerary. So take some time to enjoy the city today .

After, you’ll have great connections to anywhere else in Europe . So keep exploring if the time and budget allow you to do so.

Sightseeing In Lyon

🔆 Cathedral Notre-Dame De Fourvière 🔆 Lyon Cathedral 🔆 Musem Of Fine Arts Of Lyon 🔆 Vieux Lyon – Old Town

The city gained importance in the 17th century as it became the  European capital of silk  manufacturing. There is still some  underground passage , which silk weavers used in the past.

Lyon also has other passages called traboules, which helped people  escape Nazi occupation  during World War II.

For the best views, walk up to the  Cathedral Notre-Dame de Fourvière  or  take a funicular .

10-Day Southern France Itinerary

If you only have 10 days to explore southern France, here is what I’d do. You can choose the places you like from my base 14-day itinerary or make it a 10-day trip .

Or follow my suggestions below. Just skip Lourdes and Marseille from the basic itinerary :

Practical Tips For Visiting Southern France

To help you plan your trip to the south of France even in more detail, I’ve got some more tips for you. See when the best time to visit is, how many days to spend, what to pack, and what budget you’ll need.

How Many Days Do You Need In South Of France?

You need between 10 and 14 days to explore southern France. It’s a large area and offers so much (as you can see in this itinerary). So spend a minimum of 10 days .

The optimal number of days to enjoy everything the regions offer is 14 days .

Best Time To Visit Southern France

The best time to visit southern France is  late May, June, July, August, and September . You’ll enjoy all the activities, hiking, and cultural sights during these months. The weather is also pleasant.

If you want  less crowds in the sights  and cities, visit at the  end of May, June, and September .

For  hiking in Chamonix  and the French Alps, the best time to visit is the  end of June, July, and August .

What To Pack For Your Trip To Southern France

You’ll need a  variety of clothes  for this itinerary. From  summer clothes  to hiking stuff and a warmer jacket if you decide to make the Mt. Blanc excursion.

Here is a  quick packing list  for your trip:

🎁  T-Shirts 🎁 Dresses 🎁 Hat 🎁 Sunscreen 🎁 Shorts 🎁 Comfortable shoes (you’ll walk a lot) 🎁 Dresses

🎁  Swimming suite 🎁 Sandals 🎁 Hiking/Trekking boots 🎁 Hiking pants & T-Shirts 🎁 Waterproof jacket 🎁 Sweater

Cost Of A Road Trip In Southern France

The budget for a 14-day road trip to southern France per person ( mid-range traveler ) is $2310 .

This is a very realistic budget for mid-range travelers who want to stay in nice hotels, rent a car and travel conveniently, enjoy the mountains, walking tours, and each location’s activities.

Here is a breakdown of this French itinerary budget for each travel category:

So the total budget for a 14-day trip to southern France , without restricting yourself too much and enjoying everything the country offers, is $2310 per person .

Budget Breakdown For Different Traveler Styles

Here is a quick overview of the budget for every type of traveler:

➡ 14-day itinerary budget for backpackers and travelers on the budget: $850 ➡ 14-day itinerary budget for mid-range travelers : $2310 ➡ 14-day itinerary budget for luxury travelers : up to $3600

NOTE: This is an approximate budget based on my calculations and spending during my 14-day trip to southern France. The budget will vary based on every traveler’s preferences .

Is South Of France Safe?

Yes, southern France is safe . There is not much to be worried about. If I’m completely honest with you, I felt the least safe in Marseille. 

But overall, there is not much danger. So  use your common sense , don’t walk with your bag open, and  be aware of pickpockets in bigger cities  like Marseille and Lyon. Otherwise, it’s safe.

France is ranked n.  64 in the Global Safety Index , which is safer than the Netherlands, Italy, Canada, or Hungary.

In the mountains,   check the weather forecast  before you go hiking. I recommend starting your hike in the morning, as the weather can get worse in the afternoon.

I’ve also answered some of the frequently asked questions about southern France. Check my answers below:

Where Is A Good Base To Explore South Of France?

Toulouse, Marseille, and Lyon are the best base to explore southern France. Make these cities your base depending on what region in southern France you want to explore.

What Is The Best Way To Tour The South Of France?

The best way to tour southern France is by car . There are places which aren’t easily accessible by train or bus. And you’d spend a lot of time traveling around. So with a car, you’ll have a lot of flexibility and enjoy everything fully.

Is It Expensive To Vacation In The South Of France?

It’s mid expensive to make holidays in southern France. Expect to spend about $165 per day as a mid-range traveler , including accommodation, activities, rental car, and food.

The good thing about southern France is that it offers a wide range of prices and options , so you can adjust the price of your itinerary.

WRAP-UP: South Of France Itinerary 14 Days

This is the ultimate itinerary for southern France. It’ll help you explore all the highlights and take you to the most beautiful spots, cultural places full of history, and breathtaking mountains. South of France is honestly one of my favorite travel destinations in Europe . It’s filled with so much beauty – I’m sure you’ll fall in love.

If you have any questions or need help planning your itinerary , contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll gladly help you.

Happy Travels!

More Tips For France Travel

Looking to visit more places in France? Check out my related articles:

Epic French Riviera Itinerary For 7 Days

Medieval Castles In France To Perfect Your Itinerary

5 Best Trains From Paris To Switzerland: Ultimate Guide

Fastest Way From Paris To Zermatt: Revealed!

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

FRANCE: Interested in more articles for France? Check out my France Travel Page :

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The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

South of France Road Trip: 1-Week Itinerary

27 October 2022 · In: France , Road Trip , Travel

What could be better than spending a road trip vacation through the South of France?

Here is a complete road trip guide to the South of France, including how to get around, when to visit and an incredible 1-week itinerary that ensures you see the best attractions and sights Provence and the French Riviera offer. From Nice to Marseille and Avignon, this travel guide is perfect for first-timers and will allow you to get to know the country and locals on a deeper level.

The South of France offers plenty of opportunities for an epic road trip. Through Provence and the French Riviera or the  Côte d’Azur , you will discover a part of France with its own culture, heritage and way of life. Venture into small picturesque villages, sample local wine on your journey and unwind at pristine beaches – a summer you will never forget.

Even though France is my homeland, I am constantly discovering something new. My trip to Provence was one of those moments when I felt like I was in another country! It is a unique and authentic region where time slows down, a place that will truly leave you speechless.  

In this article, I give you the tools you need to have a memorable experience in Southern France. Plus, do not forget to check out the sustainable tips at the end. Enjoy!

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information, read our full affiliate disclosure  here .

Saint-Tropez

• Moustiers-Sainte-Marie & Verdon Gorge

Overview: 1-week South of France itinerary

• Day 1: Nice
• Day 2: Saint Paul de Vence, Grasse & Antibes
• Day 3: Cannes, Port Grimaud & Saint-Tropez
• Day 4: Hyères, Cassis & Marseille
• Day 5: Aix-en-Provence, Arles & Avignon
• Day 6: Lourmarin, Valensole & Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
• Day 7: Nice

free download

South of france itinerary.

Planning your road trip in France and not sure where to start?  Here is an outline of an epic 1-week itinerary in the South of France . Enjoy! 🇫🇷

How to get around South of France

There are several ways to explore and get around the South of France. Here are some of your options:

• Rent a car : one of the best ways to explore the South of France is by car. It will allow you to move freely and discover this unique region full of hidden treasures. I recommend using  rentalcar.com  to search and compare which car is best for you. From affordable to luxury, they make it easy to choose and have a great selection of rental agents.  Eco-tips: try to rent the smallest vehicle possible, or go electric! 
• Hop on public transport : if driving is not your thing or you would prefer to discover France from a different perspective, you can travel across the south of the country by public transport, with buses and trains. The area and major cities are well-connected to make things easier for you. And to reach remote places, look at the local buses.
• Explore by bike : biking is an incredible way to discover the South of France. It will allow you to slow travel and immerse yourself in unique culture and scenery and is perfect for reaching secluded areas. You will find many great cycle paths in the region. Plus, you will do our planet a favour! 

South of France road trip: map

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

Detailed South of France 1-week itinerary

This South of France road trip is excellent for a 1-week vacation. From picturesque villages to lavender fields and pristine beaches, it offers a perfect taste of the unique French culture across the French Riviera and Provence.

On the other hand, this self-drive itinerary is only a guide with recommendations. You are more than welcome to spend more days in one area or add other stops on your way. France has a lot to offer: you will not run out of things to do and see!

Here is my suggestion for where to stop on a road trip across the South of France with an itinerary idea for 7 days.

READ MORE: 20+ Best Places to Visit in The South of France

Day 1 – Welcome to Provence

Your adventure in the South of France begins with the bustling city of  Nice . 

With an international airport connecting most big cities, Nice is the perfect getaway to the French Riviera or the  Côte d’Azur  and an excellent starting point for your road trip.

Whether you like exploring, shopping, relaxing or sampling delicious food, Nice has it all. From world-class museums to gorgeous beaches and renowned restaurants, you will have no shortage of ideas for things to do and see. Plus, the buzzing city is an ideal place for families with children or couples on a romantic holiday. 

Things to do and see in Nice

• Stroll along the Promenade Des Anglais
• Explore by bike with Vélo Bleu
• Wander the Old Town (Vieille Ville)
• Visit the flower market (Marché aux Fleurs)
• Relax at the Jardin Albert I 
• Admire Square (Place) Massena
• Enjoy the view from Castle Hill (La Colline Du Château)
• Walk along the harbour
• Go to the beach

In addition, if you have time, go for a venture around the city and stop at the hilltop village of  Èze , located 8.5 km northeast of Nice. Famous for its spectacular views and impressive architecture, this charming village dates back to the Middle Ages and hangs impressively to the mountainside above the Mediterranean Sea. 

Unforgettable experiences I recommend

Day 2 – a journey through senses, saint-paul de vence.

Nice – Saint-Paul de Vence: 40 minutes / 21 km

Here you go – your road trip in the South of France begins! 

Your first stop will be the hilltop village of  Saint-Paul de Vence , a hotspot for artists and art lovers since the 1920s. The town is easily accessible by car from Nice and is an ideal place to discover Provence, especially if it is your first time in the area. 

Saint-Paul de Vence is not favoured for its endless tourist attractions but is an attraction in itself. Wander through the village, take in the views and pass by charming galleries, shops, restaurants and art studios – let time slow down and enjoy a one-of-a-kind French experience. 

Things to do and see in Saint-Paul de Vence

• Walk along the ramparts
• Admire the views
• Watch the locals play Pétanque
• Stop at the cemetery
• Visit the Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs

Saint-Paul de Vence – Grasse: 40 minutes / 22 km

If you have time, stop at  Gourdon  (an impressive village perched on a cliff) on your way to Grasse.

Your road trip continues with the gorgeous town of  Grasse , well-known for its long-established perfume industry, with a heritage celebrated at the Musée International de la Parfumerie in the town centre.

Today, the town is still home to about 30 makers, including Fragonard, Molinard and Galimard, and a few offer guided tours of their factories, with the chance to sharpen your skills and develop your senses.

Enjoy the unique atmosphere of this small medieval town, get lost in its quaint streets and make your own perfume – there is a vast choice of things to do and see for a stopover in Grasse. 

Things to do and see in Grasse

• Visit the Musée International de la Parfumerie
• Tour the Fragonard factory
• Learn & make your own perfume – book your tour
• Get lost in the Old Town
• See Notre Dame De Puy
• Explore the Domaine de la Royrie
• Admire Jean-Honoré Fragonard paintings

Grasse – Antibes: 35 minutes / 27 km

You will end your second day of touring the South of France with the seaside town of  Antibes , known for its old centre surrounded by 16th-century ramparts with the star-shaped Fort Carré. 

With a rich history and an active harbour, Antibes has a lot to offer and is a perfect way to end your day. The coastal town is a vibrant blend of quaint cobbled old streets and a beach resort that makes for one fascinating and well-earned stopover.

Things to do and see in Antibes

• Wander the Old Town
• Relax at the beach
• Explore Fort Carré 
• Hike up the Garoupe Lighthouse
• Visit the Musée Picasso 

Day 3 – Glitz & Glam

Cannes .

Antibes – Cannes: 30 minutes / 12 km

It is glitter time! Your third day begins in the luxurious city of  Cannes , famous for its international film festival, golden beaches, exclusive boutiques and exquisite hotels. It is also home to the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, a modern building with red carpet and Allée des Étoiles – the Walk of Fame.

A trip through the French Riviera would not be complete without visiting Cannes. Whether you decide on a short stopover or a day out, there is plenty to do and see in this resort town. Stroll through the old quarter of Le Suquet, enjoy the view from Notre-Dame d’Esperance church or treat yourself to a shopping spree on Rue d’Antibes. 

Things to do and see in Cannes

• Stroll along La Croisette
• Sample local produce at Forville Market
• Shop on Rue d’Antibes
• Visit the Vieux Port
• Get lost in Le Suquet (Old Town)
• Go sailing along the French Riviera
• Enjoy the view from Notre-Dame d’Espérance

Port Grimaud

Cannes – Port Grimaud: 1 hour 20 minutes / 67 km

Nicknamed the Little Venice of Provence, the coastal town of  Port Grimaud , approved as a 20th Century Heritage site, is a place full of surprises and a fascinating stopover on your route across the South of France. Even though it is small in size, it is a great place to take a break and unwind. 

Stroll along the canal, enjoy a boat trip, savour an ice cream or admire the colourful facade; there are many reasons why you should visit this lovely town on your way to Saint-Tropez.

Things to do and see in Grimaud

• Hire a boat and explore the canals
• Relax at Grimaud Beach
• Visit the Église Saint Michel
• Shop at the local market
• Go wine tasting at a nearby winery
• Wander the old centre of the village Grimaud
• Admire the view from Château de Grimaud

Port Grimaud – Saint-Tropez: 15 minutes / 8 km

Another unmissable stop on your journey in Provence: the sunny  Saint-Tropez . Long popular with artists, the town attracted the international rich and famous in the 1960s and remains renowned for its beaches, yacht community and nightlife.

From traditional markets to peaceful coastal paths and natural sites steeped in history, Saint-Tropez has plenty to offer visitors seeking local culture, heritage and architecture – with a touch of glamour. In addition, if you are looking for a relaxed night out, you will find plenty of restaurants and bars with a welcoming atmosphere.

Things to do and see in Saint-Tropez

• Walk around the Old Port
• Explore stunning beaches and coastal trails
• Stroll through the Old Quarter of La Ponche
• Go shopping for local gifts
• Visit the Old Market Square (Place des Lices)
• Enjoy panoramic views from the Old Citadel
• Visit the Musée de l’Annonciade

Day 4 – From Islands to Epic Cliffs

This fourth day is quite busy with activities and experiences, as it includes the island of Porquerolles and the Calanques, so it is up to you to decide what you prefer to do or skip.

Hyères & Porquerolles

Saint-Tropez – Hyères: 1 hour / 51 km

On this fourth day of your road trip in the South of France, you will leave Saint-Tropez for the seaside town of  Hyères , with its hillside old town housing the remains of a medieval castle and centuries-old ramparts.

Things to do and see in Hyères

• Hike the Sentier du Littoral
• Visit the Old Town
• Sunbathe at the beach

Hyères is a beautiful town to stop and stroll around, but also the perfect place to reach  Porquerolles , one of the Golden Islands, a group of isles with spotless beaches, coastal paths and underwater shipwrecks. 

The island of Porquerolles is only a short 10-minute boat ride from La Tour Fondue and offers many hidden treasures and exciting activities ideal for a day out with children. Moreover, the best way to discover this gorgeous island is to walk or cycle – you can rent your bike once on the island.

Things to do and see on Porquerolles

• Explore the island by bike
• Hike & immerse yourself in nature
• Enjoy a picnic with a view
• Visit the picturesque town
• Swim in the turquoise water
• Try yourself at water sports

Cassis & the Calanques

Hyères – Cassis: 57 minutes / 63 km

It is impossible not to mention  Cassis  and the Calanques for this road trip in Provence! Overlooked by a century-old castle, the town of Cassis is a historic fishing port known for its pebble beaches, vineyards and unmissable Calanques – narrow inlets framed by steep limestone cliffs part of a protected national park. 

Once in Cassis, enjoy a well-deserved break in its lovely harbour featuring pastel-colours buildings, local cafes and restaurants. And if nature is more your thing, venture along the Calanques trails for panoramic sea views.

Things to do and see in Cassis

• Wander along the harbour
• Take a boat trip
• Hike the Calanques National Park
• Admire the Château de Cassis (now a hotel)
• Sample local wine & cuisine

To get to the  Calanques  from Cassis, you can walk directly from the village to Port Miou. Or you can drive to  Parking de la Presqu’îl e and start the hike from there.

Best Calanques near Cassis: 

• Port d’En Vau

Marseille 

Cassis – Marseille: 40 minutes / 33 km

Your exciting day ends in  Marseille , a port city full of cultural sites, historical landmarks and fun attractions. Being one of the largest cities and the second in population size, you will not run out of ideas for things to do and see in this lively city.

Explore the peaceful Vieux Port, admire Notre Dame de la Garde or take a stroll through the Old Town – many activities to experience for an unforgettable evening in this unique provincial city. 

Things to do and see in Marseille

• Explore the Vieux Port
• Enjoy the view from Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica
• Visit Marseille Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-Majeure)
• Wander through the old district of Le Panier 
• Visit Palais Longchamp
• Take a boat to the Château d’If
• Discover Fort Saint-Jean

Day 5 – Art, Culture & Heritage

Aix-en-provence.

Marseille – Aix-en-Provence: 40 minutes / 33 km

Not far from Marseille, you will find  Aix-en-Provence , known for its university and being the birthplace of post-Impressionist painter Paul Cézanne. The provincial city is the perfect stopover for culture lovers and art enthusiasts on a road trip in the South of France. 

Take the time to explore this city full of attractions and stunning architecture. Stroll through the peaceful streets, shop at local markets and attend art exhibitions – there are plenty of activities for everyone to experience the unique richness and heritage of the region. Even for a short break, Aix-en-Provence is a worthwhile detour on your route through Provence.

Things to do and see in Aix-en-Provence

• Stroll around the historic city
• Walk through Cours Mirabeau
• Admire Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur
• Visit the Atelier Cézanne
• Explore the local markets
• Wander in Musée Granet
• Hike up Sainte-Victoire

Arles & Camargue

Aix-en-Provence – Arles: 1 hour 10 minutes / 81 km

You continue your journey with a city that needs to be on your bucket list: the provincial capital of ancient Rome,  Arles , famous for housing many ruins and remains of this time, including Arles Amphitheatre, which now hosts plays and concerts.

With a wealth of cultural attractions, the city is another perfect detour for art lovers, as it offers an excellent insight into the Roman heritage and boasts wonderfully preserved ruins. Moreover, between 1888 and 1889, Arles was a place of inspiration for the paintings of Vincent Van Gogh, masterpieces you can visit throughout the city.

Things to do and see in Arles

• Admire the Arles Amphitheatre
• Tour the Ancient Roman Theatre
• Explore the Vincent Van Gogh Foundation
• Walk through Place de la République
• Visit Église St-Trophime
• Wander Place du Forum
• Get inspired at L’espace Van Gogh

And if you love nature and wildlife, discover the  Camargue  national park, a sublime marshy region located south of Arles, populated by black bulls, white horses, cowboys, pink flamingos and migratory birds.

Things to do and see in Camargue

• Ride a white horse 
• Spot the pink flamingos
• Discover the Musée de la Camargue
• Walk along the walls of a Crusader Town
• Visit a working ranch
• Explore a salt pan

Arles – Avignon: 50 minutes / 39 km

Your fifth day in the South of France ends with  Avignon , home of the Catholic popes from 1309 to 1377. Located on the banks of the Rhône and surrounded by medieval stone ramparts, the city is full of cultural riches awaiting exploration. 

Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a place to have fun with the kids, Avignon has something for everyone. It is a great city to get lost and wander through beautiful quaint streets, famous bridges and market squares. 

Things to do and see in Avignon

• Walk on the Pont Saint-Bénézet
• Visit the Palais des Papes
• Wander along the ramparts
• Enjoy artworks in one of its museums
• Stroll down Rue des Teinturiers
• Take a boat trip on the Rhône
• Visit Avignon Cathedral

Day 6 – The Most Idyllic Provence

Avignon – Lourmarin: 1 hour / 70 km

Another day on the road! East of Avignon, listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France,  Lourmarin  finds home in the middle of vineyards, olive groves and almond trees. With quaint cobbled streets, lovely terrace cafes and a Renaissance-style castle, it is a perfect provincial village with a relaxed atmosphere. 

Therefore, you will not regret a stopover in beautiful Lourmarin: charming and captivating, it offers a well-deserved break for solo travellers, couples or families with children on a road trip across Southern France.

Things to do and see in Lourmarin

• Visit the Lourmarin Château
• Explore art galleries and shops
• Enjoy the vibrant Lourmarin market
• Sample local wine

Lourmarin – Valensole: 1 hour / 76 km

Set on a hill overlooking a lavender field,  Valensole  is a scenic medieval town on the northern edge of the Verdon Regional Nature Park and a must-see on a South of France road trip – a paradise for photographers and nature lovers.

Take a stroll through its historic centre with old colourful houses, allow yourself a peaceful pause in one of its gardens, admire the beauty of the lavender fields or relax at the terrace of a friendly café – the choice is yours! There are plenty of activities and attractions to experience on a short stay in Valensole.

Things to do and see in Valensole

• Get lost in its quiet streets
• Walk up Boulevard Frederic Mistra
• Visit a lavender field 
• Tour a Valensole Lavender Distillery

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie & Verdon Gorge

Valensole – Moustiers-Sainte-Marie: 35 minutes / 32 km

Continuing east, your final stop of the day will be  Moustiers-Sainte-Marie , a Provencal village set dramatically below two cliffs in the Verdon Natural Regional Park. Perched 100m high limestone ridges, the preserved medieval town offers an impressive and idyllic setting you will not encounter anywhere else.

Although Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is small, there are plenty of things to do and see for all ages. Take advantage of this well-deserved break and immerse yourself in the fascinating atmosphere of this one-of-a-kind village. Wander around the town, explore independent shops and visit the church – and do not forget to capture the moment! 

Things to do and see in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

• Wander around the town
• Visit the Musée de la Faïence
• Admire Notre Dame de l’Assomption Church
• Eat lavender ice cream
• Climb up to Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Beauvoir

And if you prefer to spend time outdoors and in nature, check out the  Verdon Gorge , a stunning river canyon and a must-see natural wonder not far from Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Whilst there is no road along the gorge, there is a breathtaking circular route around the edge and plenty of boat and kayak rental opportunities on the lower end.

Things to do and see in the Verdon Gorge

• Enjoy the view from Galetas Bridge
• Explore and go hiking 
• Paddleboard or kayak the gorge

Day 7 – Finale Day

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie – Nice: 2 hours 35 minutes / 147 km

Finale day on the French road of Provence and back to  Nice . The journey can be long, so do not hesitate to stop and take a few detours on your way.

Once in Nice, take advantage of this last day to relax, enjoy the beach or go shopping. And if you have time or did not have the chance on day one, visit  Èze  or  Menton .

I hope you enjoyed this road trip across the South of France! 

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Best time to visit the South of France

The best time for a road trip in the South of France is from May to June and from September to October.

Spring and autumn are two beautiful seasons as the roads and towns are less busy, the temperatures are pleasant, and the colours are gorgeous.

Summer is also an excellent period to visit the South of France. However, the temperatures can get extremely high during that season, and the region will be busy, leading to higher prices. 

Keep in mind that Provence and the French Riviera enjoy the sunniest climate in France, with over 300 days of sunshine a year, so do not worry too much. The season you choose will mainly depend on the activity you want to do and what you want to experience.

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Create your dream adventure & live an unforgettable green experience on the road.

Sustainable travel in Southern France

Are you looking forward to your road trip through Southern France? I understand! Road trips are a fantastic way of travelling as they allow us to move freely and discover so many incredible places at our own pace. However, they can also have negative environmental impacts. That is why considering our carbon footprint and adopting eco-responsible habits is essential.

Here are some simple tips for creating an unforgettable adventure in the South of France with less impact. 

PREPARE YOUR ROUTE

I know getting lost on a road trip can feel fun and exciting. But when trying to minimise your footprint, it is best to plan your route to avoid unnecessary travel. In addition, the shorter the distance you travel, the less fuel you will use and the less harmful emissions you will produce. Tip: Get offline maps to stay on track even if you lose signal. 

PLAN YOUR MEALS

Another great way to reduce your impact on the road is to plan your meals. Throughout your journey, try to find local restaurants or eco-friendly facilities. You can try the local cuisine or wander through local markets and buy fresh produce. 

MAKE YOUR TRIP PLASTIC-FREE

As you might know, plastic packaging is a significant environmental issue and causes concerns for wildlife and the preservation of natural landscapes. Therefore, avoid plastic as much as possible and bring reusable items instead. Choose eco-friendly alternatives , like reusable tote bags, cutlery, plates, etc. Tip: you can also buy  filtered water bottles  to refill your water anywhere. 

CHECK YOUR CAR

Make sure your vehicle is in the best possible condition for the road: check the engine, oil level and tire pressure before your trip. In addition, use the available features in your car, like cruise control, to help you maintain your speed and reduce excess emissions. And even better, drive an electric vehicle if possible! (Or a bike for the most courageous).

LEAVE NO TRACE

Aim to leave a place better than you found it. For example, dispose of your litter appropriately and pick up any trash you encounter. Be respectful of the land and do not drive over protected areas. And finally, stay on the marked trails when hiking, as going off can be dangerous for flora and fauna. 

RESPECT WILDLIFE

Be mindful of your surroundings and adopt a responsible attitude towards wildlife, on land and in the sea. Do not come close to, feed or touch animals and corals. Remember that you are only a guest in their home.

USE REEF-SAFE SUNSCREEN

Protecting your skin from the sun during the hottest hours of the day is non-negotiable, especially during outdoor activities. But be careful about the cream you choose. Zero-waste and reef-safe sunscreens are an excellent alternative to chemical creams and are incredibly beneficial for many reasons: they protect the environment by reducing plastic waste and preserve your health by eliminating harmful components.

For more ideas of eco-friendly habits at the beach and near the coast, check out this article:  Sustainable Beach Guide: 10 Easy Eco-Tips .

Want more inspiration?

• Sustainable Travel Guide: What, Why & How
• Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure
• Best Sustainable Backpacks for Travel & Hiking

Download your  FREE sustainable travel checklist  ↓

France travel planning guide

Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your road trip across the South of France stress-free with one of my favourite providers,  Nomad Insurance .

Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over France. However, I also recommend travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

Yes, renting a car in France is easy and is a great way to explore the country freely. I recommend booking yours with  Rentalcars.com  – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

The best way to book your accommodation in France is with  Booking.com  – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable hotels to luxury resorts with sea views.

I recommend booking your plane with  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

South of France road trip – FAQ

Yes, it is easy to drive in the South of France. However, keep a GPS and map nearby. Most roads are in good condition but drive carefully in remote places. And please, do not go fast!

I recommend spending at least seven days or more in the South of France, as there is so much to do and see. A week will allow you to discover the region and its hidden natural treasures whilst taking the time to relax and enjoy the sunny French weather.

The best time to visit the South of France is from May to June and from September to October. Spring and autumn are two lovely seasons as the roads and towns are less busy, the temperatures are pleasant, and the colours are gorgeous.

And you, have you ever experienced a road trip in the South of France? Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

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Lyon to Marseille: The Perfect South of France Itinerary

Looking for a trip filled with culture, history, great food and beautiful scenery? This South of France itinerary takes you from Lyon to Marseille.

When you think of the South of France, what images spring to mind? Provençale views of bright yellow sunflowers and the unmistakeable scent of lavender? Undulating hills lined with vineyards? Medieval towns built into the rocks? The glittering turquoise waters of the Cote d’Azur? This part of France is an incredible region to travel around as it offers so much.

I’ve just returned from an 8-day adventure which started in Lyon and finished in Marseille. There were so many highlights along the way, including wine tasting in Beaujolais, kayaking under the Pont du Gard, hiking through the spectacular landscapes of the Gorges de l’Ardèche, visiting an immersive digital art exhibition in a quarry in Les Baux, and enjoying fine French cuisine in Marseille’s old port.

Rather than figure out complex logistics, for transport, hotels and tours, I was invited to travel on board the Avalon Poetry II river cruise. Some river cruise itineraries can be quite regimented, but this Active and Discovery on the Rhône  tour allowed for plenty of optional activities and tours, as well as free time to explore places independently.

You may prefer to follow this South of France itinerary as a road trip or book onto a cruise as I did. With so many gorgeous places within easy reach of one another, you’re guaranteed to have a holiday to remember.

Read more: Tempted to book a river cruise? Read my review of the Avalon Poetry II

When planning a trip from Lyon to Marseille, there are plenty of different routes you could take, but I loved this one as it followed the course of the Rhône.

South of France Itinerary Map

Lyon is often referred to as the culinary capital of France. I think Paris might have a thing or two to say about that, but it’s highly regarded all the same. A big part of that reputation comes from the city’s proximity to countryside. Around a third of all France’s food and drink is produced in this region. That’s everything from vegetables and salamis, to classic cheeses and award-winning wines.

To make the most of your time in Lyon, I’d recommend taking a food tour around the city. I found the guided tour was such a great way to get to know the history of the city as well as get to grips with the cuisine. The tour (an excursion booked as part of my Avalon river cruise) took us to a number of different shops including a traditional salami store, for a slice of the Lyon’s legendary praline pie, and to a gorgeous little viewpoint with a selection of cheeses.

One of my favourite elements of the tour was exploring the city’s many traboules. These are special passageways that were used by the silk trade. There are 500 dotted around the city, and as tourists, there’s no way we would have found them! Inside are beautiful courtyards, hidden towers and all sorts of treats! Just look at this one…

While I chose to eat my way around the city (all in the name of research of course!) there are several other things to do during your stay in Lyon. As mentioned, it’s a city famous for cuisine, and a few of my friends went and cooked up a delicious Lyonnaise lunch with a local chef. They said it was a great experience and they learned a few recipes they’d make at home in the future.

If you’re interested in history and architecture, there are also tours dedicated to the traboules and the city’s architecture.

Alternatively, it’s a beautiful city to explore on foot, so I’d recommend allowing a bit of time to see the banks of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, wander the Quartier Saint-Jean and Colline Croix-Rousse districts and perhaps visit the market Les Halles de Lyon. As ever, get lost and you never know what you might find!

Beaujolais Wine Region

If you’re looking to discover more than Lyon, the Beaujolais wine region is a short drive away. Many vineyards such as the Jean Jacques Paire Wine Estate offer tours with tasting sessions. I’d also recommend taking a drive up to Oingt, a spectacular mediaeval village which overlooks a valley filled with vineyards, and is considered one of the most beautiful villages in France.

Tain-l’Hermitage and Tournon

My time spent in these two towns was a highlight of my entire trip through France. They sit either side of the Rhône, connected by the Seguin Footbridge, the oldest suspension bridge still used in France. The views here are simply spectacular! There are steep vineyards on both sides, plus an ancient chateau and a folly up on the hill.

If you’re a wine lover like me, I’d recommend a morning walk through the vineyards. There are public paths, so you can wander freely (just respect the vines!) There are local companies offering wine tours too, so you could do a tasting within the vineyards as I did. Sipping a glass of Crozes-Hermitage next to the vines that created it – what better way to taste it?!

If you fancy something a little different, you could book a special class at world-famous chocolatier Valrhona. The brand opened La Cité De Chocolat in 2013 in Tain l’Hermitage. It’s described as a “multi-sensory interactive chocolate experience”. As well as learning more about how the chocolate is made, you could also make some of your own to take home too!

If you’re looking for an active adventure during your visit to Tournon, check out the Vélorail (rail bike) through the beautiful Gorges du Doux. This was the first time I’d heard of this activity. I’ve never seen it anywhere else on my travels!

Essentially, you sit in a small car on the old rail tracks and pedal your way along. There are slopes, hills to climb and incredible landscapes along the way. Plus remember, the more exercise you do, the more wine and chocolate you can enjoy during your trip!

Continuing down the Rhône I found myself in Viviers, another enchanting town filled with ancient monuments. I explored it at night, which seemed fitting as it has a ghostly past! I heard all about this on an after-dinner ghost tour, with live actors playing characters from throughout history.

Viviers was established in the 5th century and was once home to 30,000 people. Today, just 4,000 people live in the old stone houses. The cobblestone streets are narrow and windy – the kind of place you wouldn’t want to drive! Key places to see include the Cathedral of Saint-Vincent (which dates from the 12th century) and the Town Hall which was once the bishops’ palace.

Gorges de l’Ardèche

As Viviers is small, it won’t take long to look around, so I’d recommend a trip out to see the Gorges de l’Ardèche while you’re in the region. This is around 45-minutes by car. If you love epic landscapes, you’re going to fall in love with this place! The most famous view is of the Pont d’Arc, a 50m tall natural bridge over the Ardeche River. Just wait until you see it for yourself, it’s absolutely breathtaking!

There are lots of hiking trails, small beaches and a few cafes, hotels and restaurants close by. It’s also a great area for wildlife, with wild boar, deer, eagles, vultures, peregrine falcons and owls all living in the habitat around the river.

One of the most popular activities here is to kayak along the river, paddling right through the famous arch. However, during my trip, France was recovering from heavy rain and the water was flowing too fast for a leisurely activity! I chose to go for a hike around the area instead, while watching a few brave kayakers from the river’s edge!  

I should also add that this is the location of the famous Chauvet-Pont-d’Arc Cave . These caves were discovered in 1994 and are considered one of the most significant prehistoric art sites in the world. As well as the impressive cave paintings, fossils and human remains were also discovered. Experts have placed these as being from 32,000 years ago… absolutely mind-blowing! The cave is closed to visitors for preservation, but close by is Pont-d’Arc Cavern, where you can see a replica.

This was my third time in Avignon, but the fact I’d visited before didn’t take anything away from the experience. If anything, it made it even more special as I felt like I had already been a tourist, and this time I could wander at my own pace.

If you’re visiting for the first time, there are a few places you must see, for example UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Palais des Papes. This historical palace was the seat of Western Christianity during the 14th century, and is a spectacular example of Gothic architecture. It’s also lovely to wander the perimeter of the city centre, following the 4.3 kilometres city walls.

Plus, you can’t miss the Pont Saint-Bénézet (St. Benezet Bridge). If you’ve ever heard the song ‘Sur le Pont d’Avignon’ (a popular French nursery rhyme) you might be familiar with this bridge already! The bridge you’ll see in Avignon today dates back to the 12th century, although only four arches and the gatehouse have survived, so don’t expect to cross to the other side!

I visited all of these spots during the trip as well as finding plenty of time to wander the skinny streets of the city itself. There’s a real charm to the long rows of terraces with pastel Provence shutters, and small shops and cafes built from the signature yellow stone. One of the most picturesque streets I found was Rue des Teinturiers, which has old cobblestones underfoot, huge sycamore trees along one edge, as well as large waterwheels once used in the textiles industry.  

The other highlight was experiencing the city’s vibrant food market Les Halles d’Avignon . There are some great city tours which include a visit to the market as part of the experience. There are over 40 stalls under one roof, selling everything from fresh meat and fish, to cheese, wine and sumptuous pastries. There are even a few stalls where you can dine in!

Pont du Gard

I chose to explore Avignon in the morning and then book onto a special excursion in the afternoon to kayak under Pont du Gard. This impressive Roman aqueduct is one of the most visited historic sites in France, and wow is it magnificent! Some of my friends went on an e-bike tour across it, but I was keen to see it from the water!

I kayaked 9km downstream, with a few small yet exhilarating rapids along the route. The water was crystal clear with a turquoise hue. Seeing the top of Pont du Gard come into view was a very special moment. It’s a magical structure to see, and it seems so vast when you’re floating in a tiny kayak underneath it! This was another highlight from my week in France, and something I’d definitely recommend adding to your South of France itinerary.

Arles is a pretty Provençale city with history at its core. There’s a huge Roman amphitheatre in the centre, with narrow streets with colourful shutters fanning out from the middle.

But wait, there’s a new landmark in this city too. The Luma Arles arts tower was designed by modern architectural genius Frank Gehry and its silver structure is visible from miles away. I didn’t have the chance to go inside, but I hear the interiors are equally as boundary-pushing, with walls made from salt from The Camargue, slides through the atrium and mirrors on the ceiling!

As well as Luma, there is plenty more on offer for art lovers in Arles. Towards the end of his life, Vincent Van Gogh moved from Paris to Arles, seeking the south’s warmer temperatures. He fell in love with the beautiful countryside, light and colours of Provence. If you’re interested in learning more about the artist, visit the Fondation Vincent Van Gogh Arles . Also, be sure to take a wander around the Place du Forum and you’ll see the inspiration for his painting Café Terrace at Night.

Les Baux-de-Provence

One of the reasons I think this is the perfect South of France itinerary is the huge variety of things to do. No matter what you’re interested in, there’s something you’ll enjoy!

I decided to go on one of the Avalon day trips from Arles to Les Baux-de-Provence which is located in the Alpilles (the mini Alps!) The village itself is built into the rock and includes a chateau, church and lots of beautifully preserved monuments. I went on a hike up through the rocky terrain to reach a viewpoint where I could look back at the village. What a view!

Next, I went to one of the most engaging art exhibitions I’ve been to in a long time. Inside the quarry here is Carrieres de Lumieres , an immersive digital art exhibition which is projected onto the cavernous interiors. Set to a soundtrack of classical and modern music, the artworks have been digitised and animated, creating a unique and captivating experience. During my visit, the visuals were based on the works of Cezanne and Kandinsky, but they change throughout the year, so check the website before your go.

The Camargue

I finished my Avalon cruise in Port-Saint-Louis, which is close to Marseille, at the mouth of the Rhône. There isn’t a huge amount to do in this town, but it is close to the France’s wild, marshy area known as The Camargue. Have you heard of Le Mistral? It’s the name of the wind which blasts through the South of France. Sounds scary, but it has its benefits too! It helps with the salt production, blows away air pollution and keeps Provence’s vineyards dry. The only thing is, there are about 220 days of wind down in The Camargue, so that’s something to bear in mind.

I never knew France had a place with salt flats, rice paddies and lakes, where white horses gallop across the countryside, black bulls are heralded as heroes and flocks of pink flamingos stand tall in the water. This is an area rich with nature and popular with birdwatchers. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn for the migration of the birds. With so much water around, it’s also home to a number of varieties of mosquito, so cover up!

If you’re looking for things to do in The Camargue, you could visit an oyster farm, go on a cycle tour though the unusual scenery, or enjoy a nature tour to learn more about the creatures who call the region home.

This vibrant port city is the final stop on this amazing South of France itinerary. There are plenty of sights to see here including the striking Notre-Dame de la Garde (known as la Bonne-mère) and Cathédrale La Major. It’s a great city for museum lovers too, with Musée des Beaux-Arts de Marseille and Mucem (Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean) both highly regarded. In fact, I’d say Mucem is worth visiting for its architecture alone!

If you have a little more time, you could go on one of the most popular day trips from Marseille to visit Calanques National Park. Don’t forget your camera, as this is a beautiful place filled with dramatic landscapes, turquoise waters and secret coves.

On my final day in Marseille I chose to wander around the Vieux-Port (old port), enjoying the views of the yachts, the glittering turquoise of the water and the hustle and bustle of the fish sellers. After a long stroll, I stopped for lunch at a cute bistro ( Le Bouchon Provencal ) and tucked into a delicious salmon tartare and a glass of rose. What a perfect end to my wonderful South of France itinerary!

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading my South of France itinerary and it helps you plan an amazing trip from Lyon to Marseille. I travelled on Avalon’s Active and Discovery on the Rhône with Avalon Waterways. You can read more about my experience in my river cruise review , as well as finding out 17 useful things to know before your first European river cruise . You could also follow my itinerary by hiring a rental car and going on a really fun France road trip!  

Looking for other places to visit in southern France? Check out my top 10 things to do in Cannes and my Cote d’Azur travel guide for lots of stunning spots on the French Riviera. For a really fun read, don’t miss my adventures in Nice and Monte-Carlo – a trip where I turned up at the airport and had no idea where I was going!

A big thanks to  Avalon Waterways  and  iambassador  for inviting me to be part of the #AvalonAD campaign. As always, all opinions are my own.

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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The Smooth Escape

Nature & adventure travel blog

5-day South of France itinerary: Provence road trip for nature lovers

Spanning across the southeastern corner of France, Provence is known for its fragrant lavender fields, fairytale villages, picturesque landscapes and azure blue seas. It is one of the most visited regions in the country and a dream destination for many travelers around the globe. 

With so much to see and do, it’s impossible to explore all the treasures of Provence in one trip, but this 5-day South of France itinerary will surely give you a taste of what this fascinating region has to offer. The best way to experience this part of France is to rent a car or a campervan and take a Provence road trip since many of the top attractions are situated in rather remote places.

As is the case with most of my travel itineraries, this Southern France road trip itinerary focuses on the most beautiful natural attractions and the scenic countryside, and doesn’t include big cities. If you’re keen on seeing the region’s larger cities like Nice, Marseille and Cannes, you can easily add these stops and adjust the itinerary to suit your preferences.

Since this Provence itinerary is a circular route, you could start it either in Nice, Marseille, Avignon or any other place nearby. In this blog post, I will describe the itinerary starting from Avignon. You can see the exact driving route on the map at the end of the article.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase.

The best time to do this South of France road trip

The best time to go on this Provence road trip is from late spring to early autumn. The weather in this period is usually dry and warm and the days are long, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities, beach visits and exploring the charming countryside.

If your main goal is to see the famous Provence lavender fields in bloom, you should time your visit between late June and mid-July. We visited Provence in late July (after exploring the strikingly beautiful Chamonix area) and as we expected, all the lavender was already harvested by then.

June to August is also the peak tourism season in Provence, which means that there are more crowds and accommodation prices are higher. Depending on the weather, some attractions (like the Ochre Trail or Calanques National Park) might sometimes be closed in the summer due to the risk of wildfires.

Driving in Provence

Driving in Provence is safe and pretty simple. The majority of the roads are paved and in good condition.

There are some toll roads, which are of course more convenient and take you to your destination faster, but they can be quite pricy. The small local roads are slower but offer a more scenic drive past enchanting vineyards, olive groves, chateaus and quaint villages. 

Be aware that some of the roads in the mountains are quite narrow and curvy so you need to be extra careful.

We did this Provence road trip with a campervan and really enjoyed it. France offers fantastic conditions for campervanning or motorhoming and we love the freedom and flexibility that comes with this type of travel. If this is something you’d like to do as well, check out Motorhome Republic to find great deals on motorhome, RV and campervan rental in France.

For those who prefer to do this road trip with a regular car and sleep in hotels, I’ve also included my hotel recommendations for each of the days in this South of France itinerary.

As I mentioned earlier, the starting point of this itinerary is Avignon, but you could also start in Nice or Marseille and follow the same circular route (just with a different starting point).

Avignon can easily be reached from Paris by the high-speed TGV train and the journey takes only 2 hours and 40 minutes. Find the schedules and book tickets here . There are several car rental agencies at the Avignon TGV train station.

Day 1: Luberon villages and lavender fields

After picking up your rental car, kick off your 5-day South of France itinerary by visiting some lovely hilltop villages in the Luberon region, just an hour’s drive from Avignon. I explored the villages of Gordes and Roussillon, which are both well worth a visit but I’ve also heard great things about Ansouis, Bonnieux and Goult.

Gordes is often considered to be the prettiest of the Luberon villages (though I have to say I liked Roussillon better). 

Right before entering Gordes, be sure to stop at the roadside lookout point for a glorious view of the entire village. You can find its exact location by searching ‘Town View Point Gordes’ on Google Maps. I’ve also pinned it on the Provence road trip map at the end of this post.

Built on the side of a hill, Gordes is home to medieval stone houses and a labyrinth of steep alleyways. Here you can find charming cafes, restaurants and small souvenir shops selling local handicrafts. Take a stroll through its narrow cobblestone streets, grab a cup of coffee or some lavender ice cream and enjoy the sweeping views of the idyllic Provence countryside.

If you happen to be in Gordes on a Tuesday morning, you can visit the local market in the village square.

Roussillon & the Ochre Trail

Next, drive to the nearby village of Roussillon. What makes this small village so unique is the fact that all of its buildings are dyed in various hues of orange, pink and red. The reason for this is that Roussillon is situated in the middle of one of the largest ochre (a natural pigment) deposits in the world.

With its colorful facades and winding alleys, it’s a truly picturesque village where every corner is worth a photo. The streets and squares here are lined with outdoor cafes, art galleries and small boutiques selling lavender products, ceramics and jewellery.

Consider also walking the Ochre Trail (Sentier des Ocres) in Roussillon. You can choose between a 30-minute or a 60-minute trail. Both of them take you through the former ochre quarry and allow you to get a closer look at the magnificent orange cliffs and rock formations.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to walk the Ochre Trail as it was closed due to a fire risk during my visit.

After roaming around Roussillon, drive to the Valensole Plateau. It is the best and most famous place to see lavender fields in Provence so if you’re visiting during lavender season, don’t miss it! This is where you’ll find those iconic seemingly endless lavender fields that you’ve probably seen in many photos. 

As I mentioned earlier, all the lavender in Valensole was already harvested when we did our Provence road trip in late July. Nevertheless, it was a scenic drive through rolling hills and farmlands, and there was hardly anyone there.

Where to stay

Spend the next two nights in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, my favorite village in this 5-day Southern France itinerary! You’ll probably arrive quite late and not have time to properly see the village on the first night but don’t panic, you’ll have plenty of time to do this on day 2.

Here are my top picks on where to stay in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie:

MID-RANGE: La Ferme Rose This fabulous boutique hotel is full of character and features quirky rooms decorated with antique objects. There’s also a fantastic pool with mountain views.

LUXURY: La Bastide de Moustiers If you’re looking for a romantic Provençal countryside retreat, there’s no better place than this one. Owned by the famous French chef, Alain Ducasse, this renovated country house boasts a Michelin-star restaurant and rustic yet luxurious rooms.

Day 2: Lake of Sainte-Croix, Verdon Gorge & Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Lake of sainte-croix & verdon gorge.

On the second day of your road trip in Provence, get ready to explore one of the most beautiful lakes in France , Lac de Sainte-Croix and the adjacent Verdon Gorge. 

Located in the heart of Verdon Natural Regional Park, this spectacular man-made lake is an ideal place to spend a hot summer day. Swimming in its calm, turquoise, bathtub-warm water is definitely one of the highlights of this 5-day South of France itinerary.

At the lake’s northern tip, you’ll find the mouth of the gigantic Verdon Gorge, also known as the Grand Canyon of France. With its dramatic cliffs and untouched nature, it is one of the most impressive natural wonders of Provence. To get the iconic Verdon Gorge photo, head to Pont du Galetas bridge.

A popular thing to do here is to rent kayaks or pedalo boats near the bridge and cruise along the river into the gorge. During our visit, however, the region had been hit by a serious drought which caused the water level to be so low that boats couldn’t enter the gorge. Unfortunately, this is becoming more and more common due to climate change.

If the water level is too low for boats or you’re simply craving something a bit more adventurous, consider doing this epic ‘aqua trekking’ experience , where you float through the gorge with a life jacket.

Route des Crêtes Verdon

Another fun (and a lot less known) way to see Verdon Gorge is to take a road trip along its rim. You can either drive around the entire gorge or just take the shorter but very scenic Route des Crêtes.

We chose the latter option. Starting at the village of La Palud-sur-Verdon, this loop road passes 14 lookout points or ‘Belvederes’ with jaw-dropping views of the magnificent gorge below. Although it might sound like a hair-raising drive along the edge of a cliff, I was actually surprised by how safe it felt to drive there.

Read my detailed post about the Route des Crêtes Verdon for more useful tips on how to do this road trip.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Spend your evening wandering around Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. It is ranked as one of the most beautiful villages in France and it’s easy to see why. 

Situated below towering limestone cliffs and surrounded by olive groves, the village boasts an exceptional natural setting. Its narrow streets are lined with adorable pastel-colored houses, small fountains and shops selling local pottery. And to top it off, there’s also a waterfall running through the center of Moustiers. This medieval village really can’t get more picturesque.

For a wonderful view over the rooftops of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, walk up to the Chapel Notre-Dame de Beauvoir high above the village.

Spend another night in Moustiers-Ste-Marie at La Ferme Rose hotel or the gorgeous La Bastide de Moustiers country house.

Day 3: Cascade de Sillans & Saint-Tropez

Cascade de sillans.

Continue your South of France road trip by driving to Cascade de Sillans waterfall. Surprisingly, I haven’t seen this place featured in any Provence itineraries, but I think it’s a must-visit spot if you’re fascinated by waterfalls like I am!

In Sillans-la-Cascade village, a short forest trail leads you to an observation deck where you can marvel at this mesmerizing 44-meter (144 ft) waterfall with a gorgeous turquoise pool and lush green vegetation around it. This place could easily be somewhere in Costa Rica ! 

Note that at this observation deck, you can just view the waterfall from a distance and not actually get close to the water. If you’d like to visit the river at the bottom of the waterfall, you need to take an entirely different trail, one called ‘Circuit de Randonnée – La Cascade’ in Google Maps. 

The trail takes you to a magical spot with a clear emerald river flowing through a tranquil forest. If you feel like going for a dip, you are allowed to do so in the river (but not in the pool of the waterfall).

Saint-Tropez

Next, it’s time to head to Saint-Tropez, an iconic coastal town on the French Riviera. Known as a glamorous beach holiday destination, Saint-Tropez is home to luxury yachts, upscale boutiques and a small historic quarter full of colorful old buildings.

While the town is worth a quick visit, the real allure of Saint-Tropez lies in the fabulous sandy beaches around it.

At Pampelonne beach (Plage de Pampelonne), you’ll find a 5 km (3 mi) long stretch of white sand and shimmering turquoise water. Several posh beach clubs line the shore and offer parasols and chairs for rent, but you can also just throw down your towel on the sand and enjoy the beach for free.

From Pampelonne beach you can also take this 3-hour kayaking tour to a secluded cove where you can snorkel with colorful marine life such as seahorses, starfish and cuttlefish.

Bouillabaisse beach is another wonderful sandy beach, which doesn’t have quite as blue water but is an excellent place for watching the sunset.

Spend the night in or near Saint-Tropez.

MID-RANGE: Domaine Les Mésanges Surrounded by vineyards, this charming Provencal country house is a 5-minute drive from Saint-Tropez and has a heated pool, a large garden with olive trees and rooms with rustic decor.

LUXURY: Villa Cosy Hotel & Spa A 5-star boutique hotel located just a short walk from Saint-Tropez center. It features spacious contemporary rooms and an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by a serene garden. There’s also a beautiful spa with a sauna and jacuzzi.

Day 4: La Ciotat, Parc du Mugel & Cassis

The 4th day of this South of France itinerary will be all about exploring the beautiful Mediterranean coastline.

La Ciotat & Parc du Mugel

Start your day with a visit to the seaside town of La Ciotat. This town has a relaxed Mediterranean feel and is home to an old harbor surrounded by brightly colored houses and sidewalk cafes. There’s also a small historic quarter worth strolling through and a waterfront promenade lined with palm trees. 

The main reason I recommend visiting La Ciotat though is Parc du Mugel. Set on a rocky peninsula, this 12-hectare botanical garden features a variety of exotic plants and views of the massive Bec de l’Aigle (The Eagle’s Beak) rock. 

The park also has two small pebble beaches – Grand Mugel and Petit Mugel. Thanks to their calm, crystal-clear water, these beaches are great for snorkeling, and you’re likely to see a variety of fish around the rocks.

After exploring La Ciotat, head to the neighboring town of Cassis, only 30 minutes away.

With its bustling port area, fantastic seafood restaurants and lovely old architecture, Cassis is a quintessentially charming French seaside town. Right next to the port lies the sandy Plage de la Grande Mer beach perfect for a quick dip. There’s also a medieval chateau perched on a cliff overlooking the port of Cassis.

Because of its beauty, Cassis attracts a lot of visitors in the summer months, so don’t expect to find peace and tranquility here (at least not in the center of the town).

Spend the night in Cassis.

MID-RANGE: Hotel Les Volets Rouges This is an eco-friendly boutique hotel in a quiet location surrounded by a pine forest. Their rooms are bright and tastefully decorated, and almost all have a private terrace.

LUXURY: Hôtel Les Roches Blanches If you’re looking for some luxury and world-class service, the 5-star Hôtel Les Roches Blanches is likely the best choice in Cassis. This stunning waterfront property features two infinity pools and views of the Mediterranean sea.

Day 5: Calanques National Park, return to Avignon

On the final day of your 5-day South of France itinerary, get up early to visit the spectacular Calanques National Park . 

Extending along the coast between Cassis and Marseille, this national park is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking sights in Provence. Here, towering limestone cliffs rise vertically from the neon blue waters of the Mediterranean and form narrow sheltered inlets known as ‘Calanques’. 

To access the most beautiful Calanques and swim in their irresistible turquoise waters, you’ll either need to hike, mountain bike or approach them from the sea. We hiked from Port-Miou to Calanque d’En Vau and back, which took us about 4.5 hours, including breaks for taking photos and relaxing on the beaches.

If you’d like to visit the Calanques on a tour, here are some fun options: 

• A stand-up paddle-boarding tour from Cassis
• A relaxing cruise aboard a sailing yacht with lunch departing from Marseille 
• An electric mountain bike tour from Marseille
• A guided sea kayaking tour from Cassis

P.S. I’ve seen many travel blogs state that it’s not possible to visit the Calanques by land or that it’s closed for hiking in the summer. This is simply not true. You can definitely access the park by land, just be aware that during the summer, on some days the trails might be closed due to the risk of wildfires (you can find daily updates in the ‘Mes Calanques’ app). And if that’s the case, then taking a kayak, SUP or a boat tour is an excellent alternative.

Once you’re done marveling at the Calanques, it’s time to round off your Provence road trip and return your rental car to Avignon. The drive from Cassis/Marseille to Avignon should take you around 1.5 hours.

5-day Provence road trip map

On this map, you can see the locations of all the stops in this Provence travel itinerary, as well as the driving routes. Click on the icon in the top left corner of the map for more details.

Other places to include in your South of France road trip

Provence is full of exciting places to explore and it’s impossible to visit all of them in 5 days. If you’re lucky enough to have more than 5 days in Provence, or you’re just looking to add other stops to your itinerary, here are some places and activities to consider:

• Visit wineries and taste the beloved Provence rosé. Some of the most famous vineyards/wineries you can visit (and spend a night at) are Château De Berne , Château De Saint Martin and Domaine de Fontenille . 
• Explore more of the glamorous beach resorts of the French Riviera, such as Cannes, Nice, Monaco and Menton.
• If you’re interested in seeing some of the larger towns in the region, visit Marseille, Avignon, Aix-en-Provence or Nice.

5-day South of France itinerary: Final thoughts

From fairytale villages and natural wonders to a mesmerizing coastline, this beautiful region in Southern France has so much to offer. 

I hope this post gave you some inspiration for planning your own Provence road trip and convinced you to add some new places to your France bucket list! 

Be sure to check out my other France travel guides as well:

• Best things to do in Chamonix, the French Alps
• 11 beautiful lakes to visit in France
• Route des Cretes, a scenic mountain road in Provence
• Lac Blanc hike: One of the best walks in the French Alps
• Grand Balcon Nord hike: An alpine walk in Chamonix

Enjoyed reading about this Provence road trip? Pin it!

The perfect Mallorca itinerary: An unforgettable week in Mallorca

Best things to do in Chamonix in the summer

Lac Blanc hike: One of the most beautiful walks in Chamonix, France

Best lakes in France: 11 enchanting lake destinations to visit

Driving the scenic Route des Cretes of Verdon Gorge in France

This is a lovely (and timely!) post. My husband and I are planning our May 2023 trip to France, and appreciate how thorough you were about the sights to explore in Provence.

We have just barely 5 days to travel through southern France, so I’m leaning towards prioritizing Cassis over St. Tropez. Do you have a strong recommendation? We are equally interested in hiking and exploring a coastal town but recognize we likely don’t have time to give both Day 4 and Day 5 sights justice. Any insight is much appreciate!

Hi Esther. Glad to hear you found the post helpful! If I had to choose between Cassis and St. Tropez, I would definitely choose Cassis. I think the town itself is more charming and I also really loved the Calanque d’En Vau hike which starts in Cassis.

This is amazing and hits all my top bucket lists for the trip. Wondering if I can start in Cassis and loop around to finish in St. Tropez since I have a flight out of Nice. I’m going to be there on 20-25 July so will it be too late to see the lavender fields.. is there anywhere else I can see them. Definitely want to do one hike and one water activity

That’s awesome Kinnari! You can definitely start in Cassis and finish in St. Tropez. Regarding the lavender, I’m afraid it’s too late, I’m not aware of any place where you could see them at that time.

My husband and I were thinking of hitting up this road trip this summer during the first week of July! And we’d love to campervan it! How did you find places to park and stay for the night?

Hi Josephine. That’s a great plan, we absolutely loved doing it by campervan! We use the Park4Night app to find parking spots.

Hey! Thanks so much for this detailed itinerary. What’s the total driving time for it?

You’re welcome! Sorry I don’t remember how many hours it took to drive. But it’s easily doable in 5 days.

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How to Spend Two Weeks in the South of France

The South of France holds a special place in my heart.

I first fell in love with this corner of the earth whilst au pairing in Manosque. After too many weekend trips to Aix-en-Provence on the bus, I slowly began to venture out and discover the beauty of the French Riviera.

That’s how my love began and it’s been blossoming ever since, and in this itinerary, I am going to share how to spend an unforgettable two weeks in the most magical region of France.

Sun-soaked beaches, charming Provençal villages, and world-class cuisine. Put simply, this is your two-week South of France getaway. 

Day 1 – Marseille

Begin your two-week trip in France’s oldest city, Marseille. Whenever I visit Marseille, I like to stay right in the middle of the action; that’s why I recommend staying here . The French are known to love their elegant spaces, and I adore staying at this lovely apartment. Spacious, bright, and offering up a neat terrace, it will leave you wishing to call this city home. 

Once settled in, follow the noise to the waterfront.

Find yourself standing in the Vieux Port, Marseille’s historic harbor that has served as the heart of the city for over 2,600 years. Wander your way over to Fort Saint-Jean. One of the oldest monuments in Marseille, this fort marks the entrance to the Old Port and is a symbol of Marseille’s military history.

To enter the fortress, climb up the stairs on the far side of the road and cross an elevated footbridge. Explore the many walls and interesting fortifications that have protected the Old Port since 1660. Around the corner you have the Musée des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Méditerranée, a modern museum dedicated to the history and culture of the entire Mediterranean region. The building itself, with its extra-terrestrial feel, is worth a photo.

Pro tip: visit on the first Sunday of the month when admission is free!

For lunch, get ready to indulge in Marseille’s most famous dish: Bouillabaisse. Once a poor man’s soup, this hearty meal is a garlic and saffron-flavored fish stew that seafood enthusiasts will fall in love with. Whenever I am in Marseille, Chez Fonfon is my first stop. I love starting with the hot bouillon and delicious toasted bread, then savoring the fish and potatoes afterward. Pair with a light Sauvignon Blanc and voila!

After fuelling up, head to the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde. Perched atop a hill overlooking Marseille, this historic site is a must-see. Book a tour to make the most of it – I recommend the urban walking tour. You can enjoy a tour with expert knowledge and great company because let’s face it – climbing the 170 steps as a group is much more fun and rewarding!

When you are at the top, take a minute to take in the breathtaking panoramic views of Marseille. But it does not stop there; turn around and admire the Neo-Byzantine masterpiece that is the Basilica. Intricate carvings, stunning mosaics, and beautiful stained-glass windows. It is truly a work of art. 

End your day exploring the nearby neighborhood of Le Panier, a vibrant district perfect for a cozy café or dinner spot. In fact, Marseille’s large North African community makes it a foodie heaven – my favorite spot is Chez Tamar for delicious Magreb cuisine. Take my advice and order the ‘Tamar’ plate. Expect a colorful and vibrant spread of mezze and small bites, like delicious muhammara and tabbouleh.

Day 2 – Marseille and Ensuès la Redonne

Start your second day in Marseille with a visit to the Palais Longchamp, a grand 19th century palace which celebrates the construction of the Canal de Marseille. The palace now boasts a beautiful park, two museums, and a garden oasis. Not only is the Natural History Museum free but it is filled with hundreds of thousands botanical, fossil, and mineral specimens which will keep you busy for hours. If you want to skip the museum, you can enjoy a relaxing stroll around the grounds during the morning sunshine.

Afterwards, take the train to Ensuès la Redonne. This gorgeous little village is a complete hidden gem and my absolute favorite spot to visit when I want to escape the business of Marseille.

When you arrive at the station, follow the winding path downhill to the main village and settle in at Plage de la Redonne. Soak up the warm Mediterranean sunshine, read a book, and explore the nearby hidden coves on a rented paddleboard or kayak. It’s the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the South of France.

After a few hours, get ready for a well-deserved afternoon hike.

Sentier du Littoral is my top pick, having hiked it many times during my weekends in Aix. It’s not too strenuous and takes around three hours to complete, but make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks. Along the way, discover what the hidden coves look like from above, experience stunning cliffs, and even an ancient fort. The dramatic contrast between the blue of the ocean and the deep hues of the wilderness and pines makes for excellent photos. 

For a fun and unique dining experience, head to Pizza Rocca in La Redonne, where you’ll find some of the best pizzas in the South of France. Any pizza with the balsamic dressing is delicious! Enjoy your meal from this delightful food truck at sunset before heading back to the station. Although you can stay in La Redonne, I would suggest heading back to Marseille after dinner for easier travel to Aix.

Day 3 – Aix-en-Provence

Wake up to the hustle and bustle of Marseille. Enjoy your final moments in this city as you take the train over to your next stop: Aix-en-Provence. 

In the blink of an eye (literally just 11 minutes), you will arrive in Aix.

Before any tours or recommendations, the first thing I want you to do is go on an explore through the center of this colorful city. Getting lost amidst the narrow streets, finding local hidden gems, and taking in the wonderful architecture on your way is a sheer pleasure and will inspire how you want to spend your time here.

Another free (yet amazing) thing to do in Aix is visit Church Saint-Jean of Malta, the first Gothic church to be built in the Provence region. The church’s facade is truly spectacular, adorned with intricate stone carvings, striking arches, and a magnificent rose window.

Step inside the church and expect more of the same: soaring vaulted ceilings, vibrant stained-glass windows, and ornately detailed altarpieces. If you are lucky, maybe you will catch a glimpse of one of the regular events hosted at the church. From music concerts to funky art exhibits, there’s always something going on here. 

Head straight to Cours Mirabeau for lunch. 440 meters long and lined with cafés, fancy restaurants, terraces and elegant private mansions, this avenue will give you the perfect welcome to Aix. There are so many options, but I suggest watching the world go by as you enjoy lunch at Les Deux Garcons.

In terms of where to stay, I always choose to stay here when I am in Aix. Not only is the location fantastic (right on Aix’s most popular avenue) but the place has a relaxing spa and a gorgeous outdoor terrace.

Day 4 – Aix-en-Provence

Get ready to experience the symbol of Provence: an abundance of sprawling lavender fields that stretch out as far as the eye can see. Today, you are headed to the Plateau of Valensole. 

The first time I visited the Plateau of Valensole I jumped on this morning tour of the lavender fields . The excursion included transport from the center of Aix, endless photo opportunities, and an exciting stop at a local farmers shop. This was my favorite part as we were taught everything from the cultivation, distillation, to the properties of pure lavender. At the end of the tour you’ll have the chance to purchase pure lavender products: from lavandin essential oils to olive oils and delicious types of honey, this place is truly a foodie’s paradise! I cannot recommend their lavender honey enough. 

Once you are back in town, grab a coffee at Cours Mirabeau before indulging in some delicious Provençal market produce. My favorite market in Aix is the food market which can be found at Place Verdun and Place des Precheurs. Sample rich local wines, gourmet cheeses, and mouthwatering fresh produce. You can either do it on your own or follow along on a guided tour – this is actually the best way to learn about the local delicacies and gastronomy of the region. If you are going to try something, please try olives noires. Grown exclusively in the French region of Bouches-du-Rhône, these tasty, plump, and dark olives are used to produce some of the finest olive oil. On that note, definitely pick up a bottle of aromatic olive oil from the region – perfect to pair with tapenades, cheeses and biscuits. 

After a few hours browsing the markets, dedicate the rest of your day to the protagonist of this wonderful city: Paul Cézanne. Born here in 1839, Cézanne spent most of his life in Aix and the majority of his oeuvre was actually inspired by his hometown. If you want to dig a little bit deeper into his life and art, do not miss out on a visit to Cezanne’s Workshop (his last workshop and home for the final four years of his life). Since everything is intact – from the materials to the objects he used, you can still feel his presence here. 

Day 5 – Cassis

Head to the gorgeous little portside town of Cassis. Sheltered by both the Calanques National Park and the Cap Canaille, there is so much natural beauty to be explored here. One of the very best ways to do this is on a calanque hiking tour (book here ). Visit the creeks of Port-Miou, Port-Pin, and En-Veau with explanations from an expert local guide. Not to worry, the guide will have you covered in both English and French! 

Upon your return, get lost amongst the myriad of picturesque streets. Enjoy an ice cream at Maison Casalini Cassis (I always go for their speculoos and chocolate combination) and then spend the afternoon beach hopping. Start at Cassis’ main beach: Plage de la Grande Mer. Here you can easily rent pedalos and hang out for hours with friends and family. If you want to explore a wilder beach, I recommend Plage de l’Arène. This place is perfect to escape the summer crowds. Just remember to bring a sturdy pair of reef shoes to protect yourself from the rocks!

Accommodation wise, my Cassis go-to is Cassis Ma Vie La, mainly for the garden and close location to the beach. It’s one of the best-rated options in town. Book here .

Take a stroll along the harbor at sunset and you will find an array of dining options. If you want to try typical French bistro food, La Vieille Auberge offers the true Cassis experience: classic Provençal dishes paired with Cassis wines right on the port. Both their ratatouille and octopus salad is to die for but make sure to check out their seasonal menu. Finish up your day with a wander around the cobbled streets of the old town, take in the buzz of the night, and stop for a nightcap at Les Caves Du Port. 

Day 6 – La Ciotat

The South of France is home to so many interesting and quirky villages, and La Ciotat is definitely up there as one of my favorites. Once a major industrial shipbuilding hub, today La Ciotat is known for its charming old town and untouched, crystal clear waters. I always say that the small towns are just as worth visiting as the busier, bigger cities and it could not be more true in La Ciotat! In fact, this sleepy town is actually where the game of Petanque was invented (a Provencale version of boules), and is also the birthplace of cinema as we know it! So, keep a look out for the locals participating in competitive games of Petanque. 

Since this is a smaller town with a more laid back vibe, I recommend treating yourself to a luxury apartment stay like this one. Relax in your private oasis as you reflect on your trip so far and take in the best of the South of France. 

Day 7 – Toulon and Porquerolles 

It is Day 7 and you are headed to Toulon.Start your morning off at the Place de la Liberté, Toulon’s beautiful central square. Here you will find a stunning fountain which stands as a symbol of force and justice (drawing on Toulon’s rich naval history) as well as Toulon’s famous boat sculpture. Wander over to Toulon’s main port. This is a busy, energetic place so just immerse yourself in the atmosphere and take it all in. Wander the quays and do not miss out on a visit to the local market. Full of fresh seafood, flowers, and attractive handicrafts, you are sure to encounter a unique souvenir or two to take back home with you. Next, jump on the ferry to Porquerolles. 

With up to 300 days of sunshine annually, Porqureolles flaunts its quintessentially Mediterranean character: whispering pine forests, merging water and sky in a rich hue of deep blue. Whatever you are looking for, you can find it here: meandering pathways winding beneath the shelter of pine trees for an afternoon walk, gorgeous sunsets beyond the windswept cliffs, and rough dirt roads perfect for cycling. My recommendation would be to do a bit of everything! You can easily find bike rentals and tour guides once you disembark the ferry at Porquerolles. 

Since you are on an island, it only makes sense to spend your night aboard a yacht. You can reserve this wonderful yachting experience here . Look forward to waking up to the serene tranquility of the ocean and feasting on a French breakfast on the yacht’s bow.

Day 8 – Hyères 

Head back to Toulon in the morning and jump on a train to Hyères. This is the place to truly experience the French bon vivant. Settle into your home for the night. If you are looking for an exceptional ecolodge and spa suite hidden in nature, with a private jacuzzi and mini bar to enjoy, this place is your go to. 

As you set foot into the town, take a deep breath and breathe in the irresistible Mediterranean aromas coming from the morning market stalls. Be sure to ask the vendors for the seasonal fruits – from juicy peaches and plump cherries to luscious figs and tangy apricots, there’s no shortage of mouth-watering options to try. Personally, I cannot resist the Cavaillon melon. 

Start your day off on the right foot by hiking the famous Sentier Du Littoral, a trail that hugs the coastline and promises stunning views of the rocky shore, crystalline waters, and diverse flora. Although the hike isn’t too strenuous, I recommend setting out either early in the morning or in the late afternoon to avoid the summer sun. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water, your market snacks, and pack a swimsuit for a refreshing dip in the sea.

After working up an appetite, head to the charming old town for a delicious lunch. The narrow streets, ancient churches, and charming boutiques will enchant you as you explore. Whether you are a history buff or a shopaholic, there’s something for everyone in this quaint neighborhood. So, grab a bite to eat (my go to lunch is cocktails and tapas at Le People) and soak up the charming ambiance of this magical town.

Spend the rest of your day exploring the immaculate white sand beaches (Plage de l’Almanarre, Plage de l’Almanarre, and Plage de l’Almanarre are among my favorites) before enjoying a well-deserved apéro along Gambetta Avenue at sunset. 

Day 9 – Saint-Tropez

You were waiting for this one… Today, you are headed to the glorious land of Saint-Tropez. Once a simple fishing village, this place is now a world-renowned destination for the wealthy and famous. First things first, wake up with espresso in one of the many cafes along the harbor and simply people (and yacht!) watch. 

If you are a boat lover like me, I would recommend renting a yacht for a day to truly explore the gorgeous coastline of the Cote-d’Azur. This really is an experience, especially when you keep your eyes out for the famous opulent villas that line the shore. Your captain will most likely moor you to one of the many beaches for an afternoon stop.  

As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, it’s time to say goodbye to the luxurious yacht and head back to shore. You are in Saint-Tropez, so dinner is either a Michelin-starred restaurant…or a Michelin-starred restaurant! La Vague d’Or and La Table du Marché are two of my favorites. Everything on the menu will be exquisite, so bon appetit! For a charming, stylish and central hotel, I recommend Lou Cagnard .

Day 10 – Cannes 

The glitz and glamor is not over yet, because you are headed to Cannes. Your first stop is Villa Rothschild. Feel free to purchase entry tickets on the door, or book in advance online. As soon as you enter the property, you’ll be transported back to the glamorous era of the French Riviera in the 19th century. Stroll through the lush gardens (which are dotted with exotic plants and trees from everywhere around the world) and marvel at the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The last time I was here, I grabbed a coffee and felt like pure royalty – try it!

Next up, you are headed to La Croisette. This is the iconic avenue that comes to life every year during the Cannes Film Festival. Trust me, as you make your way down La Croisette, you’ll feel like a star yourself. Enjoy this moment: channel your inner movie star as you walk the red carpet and approach the doors to the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès. Another thing I love to do in Cannes is taking my time to browse through the designer shops and luxury boutiques, stopping for various coffees and even glasses of champagne along the way. 

For a unique stay in Cannes, Hotel Barriere Le Majestic has you covered. Located on the coveted Croisette Boulevard, enjoy stunning Mediterranean Sea views from the Deluxe Sea View Rooms and take advantage of the hotel’s private beach, heated outdoor pool, spa, and fitness center. 

Day 11 – Cannes

It is Day 2 in Cannes and today you are headed to the Avenue of Stars. One of my favorite things about this place is the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of some of the most talented actors and actresses in history. The 300+ handprints on the pavement are a testament to the enduring popularity of cinema, and it is quite humbling to think that you’re standing where some of the greats once stood! 

Just a walk away, you will find La Môme Plage. Stop here for a once in a lifetime dining experience you won’t forget. Their menu is a delicious fusion of French and Mediterranean cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients. From the succulent grilled prawns to the tender grilled octopus, everything on the menu is expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. You can literally spend hours here, thanks to the eclectic and lively atmosphere. 

Before you leave, take another stroll along La Croisette – because why not? 

Day 12 – Antibes

Antibes is a town that I simply can’t get enough of. Begin your day by taking a leisurely stroll through the vibrant Marché Provençal. Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the market and delight your senses with the aroma of fresh herbs and spices wafting through the air. Sample a variety of delicious local cheeses (Pont l’Évêque is my favorite), meats, and fresh produce to energize you for the day ahead.

After all that cheesy goodness, make your way to the Musée Picasso, located in the stunning Château Grimaldi. This place is not only great for admiring the collection of works by the famed artist, but the medieval castle itself is just as impressive. If you want another great museum, I recommend the History & Archaeology Museum. What really sets this museum apart is the way it brings history to life through interactive exhibits and interesting multimedia displays. For those who are interested, you can even dress up in authentic ancient Roman attire and take part in various crafts to fully immerse yourself in the experience!

The afternoon is yours to enjoy! Take your pick of activities – go for a scenic hike in Cap d’Antibes, take a refreshing dip in the sea, or relax with a long apéro before a sunset dinner. Settle in for the night at this wonderful property – I loved this place so much!

Day 13 – Nice

You have made it to Nice! If you want to skip the walking and explore Nice on your own schedule, I recommend a hop-on hop-off bus tour . You will see all the top sights, from Place Garibaldi to the Promenade des Anglais with expert guide explanations.

Lunch is simple: a Tuna Niçoise salad paired with a glass of white wine. For dessert, head to one of the most famous markets in Nice. The Cours Saleya Market sells everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to fine olive oils and freshly baked pastries. Once you’ve got your market fix, start walking towards the Colline du Chateau. From this site you will be able to take in some epic views of the city, as well as checking out the Foilles Archeologiques (an archaeological site) and an artificial waterfall. On your way down, don’t forget to snap a picture by the #ILoveNice Sign. 

For a relaxing pool stay in the center of Nice, I recommend Boscolo Hotel . This place feels so connected to nature, the service is amazing, and the breakfast is even better! 

Day 14 – Menton

Your final stop is Menton, the last French city before we hit Italian territory. Menton may be the sleepy, pearl of the French Riviera but one thing is mandatory here: lemons, lemons, and more lemons! From limoncello to lemon tarts, this tasty citrus fruit is everywhere in Menton and you are going to love it. 

By now, you should be an expert in exploring these Provençal villages. Take a stroll through the old town as you experience all the colors (lemons, remember!), architecture and revel in Menton’s local history here. In particular, you should look out for the Basilique Saint-Michel, France’s grandest Baroque church built by the 17th century Italianate, and the cemetery for stunning views. Imagine terracotta roofs overlooking the deep blue hues of the French and Italian coastline. For me, what makes this place extra special is the special Mediterranean blend that comes from Menton’s close proximity to Spain and Italy. 

It is your last day so stock up on your market goods. By now you must have a few favorites, but in Menton I promise you will find new delights that have sneaked their way from Italy.

Finish your day at the beautiful Jardin Serre de la Madone, a botanical garden bursting with exotic plants and flowers from all over the world. Most importantly, take the time to immerse yourself in the divine natural tranquility. When it comes to dinner plans, I know you are technically in France, but Menton is so close to Italy it would be a shame not to make the most out of the Italian cuisine! Head over to Little Italy Restaurant for a wonderful final dinner in France. 

Full of character, charm, and of course, lemons, Menton is the perfect place to relax and get nostalgic as you say goodbye to the most amazing 2 weeks in the South of France. From here, you can continue to travel around Europe, or head back to Nice to fly back home.

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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South of France

January 21, 2023

South of France - incredible 10 day travel itinerary

Our 10 day south of France guide covers everything you need to know to plan the ultimate trip to this bucket list destination. If you’re wanting to explore the French Riviera, we definitely recommend making Nice your home base. This is especially true if you’re planning on traveling around by public transport. If you are planning on making Nice your home base, we have a very detailed post here that covers everything you need to know about visiting this beautiful city. 

Nice has an incredible amount of connections to nearby towns and villages by train and bus at very affordable rates. In fact, most places on the Cote d’Azur can be reached from Nice . Our 10 day guide covers all the best villages and towns nearby to Nice that we think should be on any south of France itinerary. We provide information on how to get there, how much time you need and what to see and do in each location.

You can fit in so much

We did this exact 10 day south of France itinerary in summer 2022. It was our first trip and we were surprised at how much we were able to fit. We didn’t feel like we packed too much in and had plenty of time for going to the beach and slow afternoons sipping on lemonade in Nice’s old town. Nice is a very trendy destination, and you could certainly spend quite a few days soaking up the atmosphere in the city, but the unique and gorgeous surrounding towns were definitely the highlight for us!

Tip: avoid the biggest mistake we made. If you ask for water at a restaurant they will give you bottled still or sparkling water. They will never bring you tap water. To save yourself the money, ask for a carafe of water by saying the following  ‘carafe d’eau s’il vous plaît’.

Travel For Working People

Thanks for visiting! We're Bec & Michael and we are two hard working lovers of travel! We hope our words inspire you to travel the world without having to toss out your career!

Other guides for South of France:

Marseille France travel guide for a perfect trip in 2023

day trips from Nice France – Top 7 prettiest towns

Nice travel guide for those visiting for the first time

No time to read this now pin it for later.

Menton at sunset

In this article

• 10 day overview 10 day overview
• Highlights map Highlights map
• How to get to Nice How to get to Nice
• Getting around southern France Getting around southern France
• Where to stay Where to stay
• Day 1 - Nice Day 1 - Nice
• Day 2 - Monaco + Menton Day 2 - Monaco + Menton
• Day 3 - Eze + Villefranche-sur-Mer Day 3 - Eze + Villefranche-sur-Mer
• Day 4 - Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild + Beaulieu-sue-Mer Day 4 - Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild + Beaulieu-sue-Mer
• Day 5 - Marseille Day 5 - Marseille
• Day 6 - Cassis + the calanques Day 6 - Cassis + the calanques
• Day 7 - Marseille + Nice Day 7 - Marseille + Nice
• Day 8 - Cap d'Ail Day 8 - Cap d'Ail
• Day 9 - Nice beach day Day 9 - Nice beach day
• Day 10 - Nice (depart) Day 10 - Nice (depart)

10 day South of France itinerary: overview

Day 1: Nice (arrive) Day 2: Menton + Monaco Day 3: Eze Village + Villefranche-sur-mer Day 4: Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild + Beaulieu-sur-Mer Day 5: Marseille Day 6: Cassis and the calanques Day 7: Marseille + Nice Day 8: Cap d’Ail Day 9: Nice beach day Day 10: Nice (depart)

Highlights map for 10 days south of France itinerary

How to get to Nice

To start your 10 days south of France itinerary you will most likely be flying into Nice . We have used Nice as the home base for this entire itinerary as we think it is the most convenient location due to its: 

• Proximity to an international airport 
• Train and bus connections to nearby villages and beaches 
• Accommodation and restaurant options
• Sightseeing options for your downtime   

You will pick up flights direct to Nice from most destinations in Europe as well as further afield in the US, North Africa and the Middle East. The closest airport is Nice Cote d’Azur Airport , an international airport situated just 8km away from the city centre. It is the third busiest airport in France after the two that service Paris so that gives you an idea of how popular this destination is! 

Nice airport to the city

Getting from Nice airport into the city is very easy! So easy you don’t need to bother with pre-booking anything or pre-planning transport. Inside the airport you’ll see signs directing you to the tram (light rail). Take tram line 2 in the direction of Port Lympia for €1.50 each way. There are multiple stops in town depending on where your hotel is. The main stop in the city centre is Jean Médecin. The whole journey won’t take longer than 30 minutes. The tram leaves the airport every 8 minutes and runs from around 4am to 11.30pm depending on the day. You can find more information including timetables here .

How to get around southern France

Before diving into this 10 days south of France itinerary, I wanted to cover off the basics on how to get around the French Riviera. We think southern France is one of the easiest regions to travel around by public transport that we have ever experienced! It’s so well interconnected and affordable. Below we cover off all the major options for traveling around southern France including public and private transport.

The incredible pink-hued Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

While in Nice you will be able to get around almost exclusively on foot. When traveling larger distances there is a tram line you can take but it won’t save you much time. 

Public transport 

To get to destinations around the south of France form Nice you will want to take public transport. It’s quick, affordable and you won’t have to worry about traffic and parking.  

There are two train stations in Nice , Nice Ville and Nice Riquier. If you’re booking your tickets in advance be sure to check which station is closer to your accommodation. Nice Ville is to the north west of the old town. If you’re planning on staying close to the promenade this will probably be the closer option for you. Nice Riquier is further east, just above Quartier du Port. We found using the Trainline app to book our tickets ahead of time to be very easy and convenient. The prices are the same, and the schedule is accurate and up to date.  

You will find that the train will get you to most surrounding villages much quicker than the bus, but there are exceptions. A notable example is Èze. The train station goes to the town on the coast, whereas most people want to visit the village at the top of the hill which can only be reached by bus. Bus tickets can be bought from the bus driver, just bring cash with you (typically a ticket will cost you €1.5 each way). 

If you’d rather avoid the hassle of organising your own day trips, you will find plenty of tours leaving Nice that visit surrounding towns and villages. This tour goes to the village of Èze, Monaco, Monte Carlo, and Antibes over 10 hours and costs €75. Or you can opt for a half day tour like this one to Èze, Monaco, & Monte-Carlo for €40. 

None of the locations we have included in this guide require you to have a car as they are all very easily accessed by public transport. Arguably a lot of destinations are much more convenient to visit by public transport due to the availability and cost of parking in many villages. If you do need to hire a car, there are plenty of options in Nice both at the airport and in town. This is a hugely popular destination, so booking your hire car in advance will help you to secure a good price and the kind of vehicle you are after. If you’re driving make sure you plan your days so that you are arriving at your destination early in the morning so that you can find parking, and also make sure you’re factoring in parking fees in your budget as this will add up. 

Nice travel guide:Where to stay

We suggest that you try to stay in the area between the train station and the old town / beach. These are the areas of Le Carré d’Or (green in map above), Thiers (red in map aboce) or Carabacel (purple in map above). We split our visit between staying very close to the train station for a few days, and then a few days very close to the promenade.

Hôtel Byakko Nice

At Hotel Byakko Nice we paid €490.50 for 3 nights in August 2022 (the MOST EXPENSIVE time of year to visit Nice). The hotel’s location was perfect for day trips, being only a 6 minute walk to the train station. It was also only a 15 minute walk into the old town and a 20 minute walk to the promenade. We really liked this hotel. The staff were really friendly, the aircon was cold, and the room was perfect for a few nights with enough space to spread out our luggage. An added bonus was the rooftop here, perfect for a rose at the end of the day. 

Hôtel de la Fontaine

We also stayed at Hotel de le Fontaine and paid €585 for 4 nights in August 2022. It was only a 2 minute walk to the promenade, which was perfect for our beach days, and sunsets on the beach with a pizza and a bottle of wine. It was a 15 minute walk into the old town, and a 15 minute walk to the train station (or take the tram for €1.50 and you will cut down walking time to just 7 minutes). The distance to the promenade was our favourite thing about this hotel, but again the staff were incredibly friendly and the rooms were super spacious for a few nights.  

The colourful streets of Villefranche-sur-Mer

10 day south of France itinerary: Day 1 Nice (arrive)

Destination: nice.

• Flower markets and historic squares
• Viewpoints and impressive ports

Nice is such an incredible city. I’m not usually a huge fan of cities, particularly during peak season, but Nice was charming despite the crowds, vibrant despite the heat and fun despite its (understandable) popularity. 

Once you’re settled into your hotel, we suggest you check out the following:   

Place Massena  

This historic square in Nice is easily recognised by its large red buildings and unusual black and white geometric tiled floor. It’s located just outside of the Old Town and makes for a great place to start your own city tour. You can take in the views and people watch at a nearby restaurant, or go shopping along the boulevard. 

C ours Saleya market 

This outdoor market hosts multiple different kinds of markets with the most popular being the fresh flower market held on Tuesdays to Sundays. The flower stalls stay open until about 5.30 in the afternoon and the light at this time is very beautiful. Between June and September there is also a night market which is mostly crafts. Cours Saleya is located in the old town on a pedestrian street.      

Viuex Nice  

Vieux Nice is Nice’s incredible old town. You’ll likely head here most evenings for dinner, but it’s good to get yourself familiar with the area on your first day. You don’t need to plan out a route really, it’s not that big of an area. A couple of notable stops include Cathedral of Saint Reparata and Musée du Palais Lascaris . The beautiful narrow cobblestone streets are filled with stores selling Niçoise and Provençal goods. This is where you will find most restaurants, from busy pubs to affordable socca eateries.

Left: Viuex Nice, Right: Massena Place

Hike up to Castle Hill

You can’t miss Castle Hill. It dominates the landscape in Nice and will be one of the first things you notice. It divides Nice, separating the Old Town and the Old Port, offering gorgeous views over both. The steps up to Castle Hill will only take 10 minutes from the promenade, but there is also an elevator built into the rock that can take you up for free (you’ll see signs pointing you to where it is). From the top is where people take the most recognisable photos of Nice, absolute bliss at sunset!  

Explore Port Lympia

On the other side of Castle Hill is the old port where tours depart for Cannes and St Tropez, such as this one . Huge mega yachts line the harbour, alongside small colourful wooden boats that are called pointus. You can visit by descending Castle Hill from the opposite side to where you came up. 

During the summer there is a free historic boat ride called Lou Passagin , that takes you across Port Lympia. The attraction opens mid May and runs for 4 months between 10am and 7pm (no reservation needed). Just keep an eye out for signs directing you to the boats.     

Cathedral St Nicholas

This orthodox Russian church is located a little bit out of town. It is a 30 minute walk or 20 minute tram ride from the Old Town. However, the architecture alone is worth the effort. If you find that you have extra time this is definitely worth putting on your itinerary!  

Left: Castle Hill, Nice at sunset, Right: Port Lympia

10 day south of France itinerary: Day 2 Monaco + Menton

Destination: monaco + menton.

• Discover the glitz and glamour of Monte Carlo
• Explore the prettiest town in the south of France, right on the border of Italy

The best part about staying in Nice is its proximity to some of the best villages and beaches on the Cote d’Azur. We suggest you get an early(ish) start today and wait until you reach Monaco to get your morning coffee and pastry. You’ll spend the morning exploring the glitzy Monaco , and then in the afternoon you’ll go to what we consider the prettiest town in the south of France, Menton .  

How to get there

Monaco is a 20 minute train ride from Nice Ville. Take the train towards Ventimiglia (Ventimille), getting off at Monaco – Monte Carlo (€2-4 each way).

How much time you need

3 hours (more if you’re going to the casino).

What to do 

The glamorous world of Monaco is certainly worth visiting, even if you’re not interested in visiting the casino (we weren’t) or the insane cars (we weren’t).There are two main areas to visit, Monaco Ville where the Prince’s Palace is located, and Monte Carlo where to casino is located. Monaco is known to be quite expensive, but you can still very much do it on a budget by catching the train in and not staying for lunch or dinner.  

Get a coffee at Cafe de Paris

Start your day with a coffee and pastry from Cafe de Paris which sits in front of Monte Carlo casino . It’s a great spot to people watch and for those interested in cars you will see plenty coming and going from the hotel in front of the casino. Prices are high here, this was actually the only money we spent in Monaco and for the location we thought it was certainly worth a coffee stop!   

Walk around Monte Carlo

This glitzy neighbourhood is home to the casino, as well as high end stores and is the location of many films including Ocean’s Twelve and Iron Man 2. This is also where you’ll find the famous formula 1 hairpin. Just put Fairmont Hairpin Curve Formula 1 into Google maps. Behind the casino a lot of car owners park their cars for people to be able to get a closer look, it was a bit of a spontaneous car meet when we were there! We didn’t go into the casino, but if you want to be aware that the entry fee is €17, and you will need to be wearing appropriate clothes (smart attire). 

Stroll around the harbour

Once you’ve had your fix of Monte Carlo, walk down towards the habour to awe at the enormous yachts. More than just super yachts however, the harbour itself is very beautiful and it makes for a lovely walk to the Old Town. The Monte Carlo Harbour is one of the most famous harbours in the world. It’s best viewed from the Old Town (see point below).  

Visit the Old Town (Monaco-Ville)

For the best views over Monaco, take Rampe de la Major to get to Place du Palais. This is where you’ll find the viewpoints for typical shots of Monaco you’ll see on social media. The Old Town was way more beautiful than I expected! The orange and yellow hues of the buildings set against the Mediterranean in all directions is absolutely stunning. The Prince’s Palace is located here, the traditional Grimaldi Palace, where Princess Gabriella and Prince Jacques currently live. Expect to spend most of your time here.  

Jardins de Saint-Martin

This free to visit garden is the perfect spot to find some shade and escape the crowds for a little while. Head to Port de Fontvieille viewpoint, near the palace of justice for the best views. You’ll also find the Oceanographic Museum here. 

Check out our detailed guide to Monaco here.

View of Monaco’s port from Place du Palais

You will need to take the train to Menton from Monaco. Take the line towards Ventimiglia (Ventimille) and hop off at Mention station after about 20 minutes (€2-4 each way).You’ll need to walk 15 minutes into town from here.

On your way back, you can take the train back to Nice which will take you 40 minutes and cost €3-5 each way. Factor in that you need to walk to the train station.  

2-3 hours (aim for sunset!) 

What do do 

Wander around the old town .

You can wander through the streets of this beautiful pastel town for hours and you will mostly have it to yourself. There are small pockets that are busy, but the majority of the area is very quiet and calm. There’s not too much happening in the old town. We had hoped to get some lunch once we arrived but struggled to really find much open. It’s a sleepy town, but we thought that made it extra special!  

Basilica of Saint Michael Archangel

If you google Menton, you’ll probably see a photo of this stunning church ! The geometric staircase leading up to the basilica is very photogenic. Head to Ramp Saint-Michel for the best angle to capture it. 

Quai Impératrice Eugénie for the best photo spot

Walk down to the port and along the port walls at Quai Impératrice Eugénie for a fantastic viewpoint back towards the pastel skyline. If you can plan your trip to coincide with sunset we highly recommend this. Menton is famed to have one of the most beautiful harbours in all of Cote d’Azur. 

Go for a swim at Plage des Sablettes

If you’re looking for a beach day, definitely consider Menton. Plage des Sablettes is very large, sandy, and there are even bathrooms here! There are of course a few beach clubs if you prefer but either way you’ll have stunning views of the colourful buildings in Menton set against the backdrop of the vast Italian mountains.   

Pick up some lemon products 

Bordered by Italy, Menton is famous for its citrus. You’ll find citrus products such as jams, preserves and limoncello in boutique stores all around the old town. There’s even a lemon festival ( La Fête du Citron ) in February-March every year.

Check out our detailed guide to Menton here.

10 day south of france itinerary: day 3 èze village + villefranche-sur-mer, destination: è ze village + villefranche-sur-mer.

• Wander around an exotic garden with the best views in the south of France
• Spend some time on a wide sandy beach with a picturesque backdrop

Today you’ll explore the hilltop town of Èze that looks straight out of a fairytale. Then in the afternoon you’ll visit picturesque beaches before heading back to Nice for the evening.   

You need to be careful about getting to Èze. There is Èze village and then the beach at Èze-sur-Mer. Most people visit the village, which is a hilltop town. The best way to reach the village is by bus. The train will take you to the beach which is then a 45+ minute steep hike to the village. We personally took the bus to Èze village, then hiked down to Èze-sur-Mer and took the train back. This is what you will want to do today as you will stop at Villefranche-sur-Mer on your way back to Nice.  

Bus 82 leaves from Vauban bus station (€1.50 each way) and will take you straight to Èze village in about 20 minutes. The train will cost €2-3 each way and will take you to Èze-sur-Mer in 13 minutes, but you will then need to hike for over 45 minutes to reach the village. 

Give yourself half a day if you’re going to walk down to the beach, or 2 hours if you’re only visiting the village. 

Wander the old town  

Èze may be the most pretty and photogenic village in all of Cote d’Azur. Take some time to wander through the maze of alleys that are full of boutique stores, art galleries and traditional cafes, restaurants and hotels. For a particularly pretty corner, head to 30 Rue Principale. Even in the middle of summer, we had no trouble finding plenty of spots all throughout the old town where there wasn’t a single other person. 

Le Jardin Exotique garden

This is the reason most people visit Èze village. This beautiful botanical garden sits at the very top of town with panoramic views over the Mediterranean. Entry costs €3.50 – €6 (depending on whether you’re a student or adult). There are incredible viewpoints all throughout the gardens. Beware that the entire garden is very exposed, so in the heat of the day it won’t be very pleasant. Try to aim for early morning or later in the afternoon to visit.    

Hike Nietzsche Path

The famous Nietzsche Path is the hike between Èze village and Èze-sur-Mer that the German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche apparently climbed every day when he was living on the French Riviera in the late nineteenth century. It is steep in parts, but there are stone steps in all of the areas that need them. Walking down is absolutely fine, but if you plan to walk up make sure you’re prepared with proper walking shoes and water and avoid the middle of the day. We encountered a few groups walking uphill in the middle of the day in bathing suits and none of them were having a good time! 

Swim at Plage d’Èze-sur-Mer

If you start or end your visit in Èze-sur-Mer it’s definitely worth stopping at Plage d’Èze-sur-Mer for a quick swim. This picturesque beach is right in front of the train station. It’s pretty small and does get completely shaded in the afternoon. 

Left: Èze’s Old Town, Right: View from Le Jardin Exotique garden

Villefranche-sur-Mer 

After your hike down to Èze-sur-Mer, take the train back towards Nice for 7 minutes and get off at Villefranche-sur-Mer (€1-3 each way). 

If you’re not visiting Èze and are going straight from Nice Ville, take the train towards Ventimiglia (Ventimille) for 10 minutes and get off at Villefranche-sur-Mer (€1-3 each way).

2 hours is plenty.

Explore the Old Town 

Another colourful fishing village with incredible waterfront restaurants. There’s not so much to do here, and it’s quite a small town, so you won’t need too much time. Wander through the pretty alleyways admiring the playfully coloured houses and beautiful pots of flowers lining the streets. Then head down to the waterfront to sit at one of the many trendy cafes and restaurants that line the beach.  

Stroll along the harbour

This is one of the deepest harbours in the area so another great place to do some yacht-watching! Taking a stroll around the harbour and absorbing the atmosphere is a wonderful way to spend some time.  

Plage des Marinieres 

This is one of the best beaches in the French Riviera. It’s a sandy beach that stretches along a wide bay in front of the colorful old town. This is a very easily accessed beach with the train station only steps behind it so it does get busy. The shallow water extends about 10m into the beach making this a great family friendly beach. Showers and toilets are available onsite also.

Check out our detailed guide to Villefranche-sur-Mer here.

Left: Plage des Marinieres, Right: the Old Town

10 day south of France itinerary: Day 4 Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild + Beaulieu-sur-Mer

Destination: villa ephrussi de rothschild + beaulieu-sur-mer.

• Explore a pretty pink villa and its 9 incredible gardens 
• Spend some time in a more ‘local’ town, away from crowds and souvenir shops

Today’s activities were some of my favourites on our recent trip! In the morning you’ll have the chance to visit one of the most beautiful villas in the South of France, then you’ll head to a nearby village that has a beach that consistently hits the lists for best beaches in the French Riviera. 

Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

Take Bus 15 from Promenade des Arts or your closest stop in Nice and ride for about 35 to 45 minutes to Passable / Rothschild (€1.50 each way). From there it’s only a 7 minute walk to Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild . Note: right before Covid, Nice overhauled its public transport system. You will see that a lot of blogs reference Bus 81 to get to Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, this bus no longer exists and you will need to take bus 15. 

Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild opens at 10am and standard entry is €15. Tickets can be bought ahead online. Admission includes an audio guide which we highly recommend! Learning about the history of the villa and Baroness Béatrice de Rothschild who built and decorated it is incredibly interesting. She had taste! You will want to arrive as close to opening time as possible. We had about 15 minutes where we had the whole garden to ourselves which was very peaceful. 

Depending on the time of year, you may be able to visit the villa in the evenings on select days, pre-organise for picnics in the garden or attend a dinner at the villa. We really wish we had known that when we were visiting! Each of these events cost extra.   

The villa and gardens are typically open 10 am to 6 pm. Always check the website however, as the entire villa can be booked out for private events and can therefore be closed on some days. In summer it will be open until 7 pm and in winter there are reduced hours on weekdays. You will need to have a ticket to visit the Tea Room as well. 

Check out our detailed guide to Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild here.

Beaulieu-sur-mer.

From Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild it’s only a 30 minute walk to Beaulieu-sur-Mer. Otherwise take Bus 15 from Passable / Rothschild back the way you came and hop off at Kerylos (€1.50 each way). 

If you’re skipping Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild (which you really shouldn’t, this was an absolute highlight of our trip!), from Nice Ville take the train towards Ventimiglia (Ventimille) for 14 minutes and get off at Beaulieu-sur-Mer (€1-3 each way). This is how you’ll get back at the end of the day also. 

2 hours (more if you want a beach day). 

If we go back to the Cote d’Azur and hire a car, we would try to stay in an Airbnb in Beaulieu-sur-Mer or somewhere close by in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.

Get away from the crowds 

Often overlooked for more glitzy destinations like Antibes or Monaco, Beaulieu-sur-Mer provides a bit of a reprieve from the crowds. It feels a lot more authentic than most other villages along the coast and is free from souvenir shops and overpriced gelato stands even though it’s only a stones throw from Nice (you can literally walk here if you wanted to).  

Plage Petite Afrique

This beach frequently tops lists for one of the best beaches in the French Riviera. It’s a fine pebble beach (easy to walk and sit on), has all of the amenities you will need including showers, toilets and life guards, there are plenty of water sports available and there is even a line of pine trees to find some shade near the kids playground. But what makes this beach top most lists is its beauty. Plage Petite Afrique is located in an incredibly wide bay that is set against the backdrop of a dramatic mountain range, absolutely stunning! 

Have lunch along the harbour 

Along the waterfront is another pretty harbour that has a string of affordable restaurants sitting right on the water. You will need to walk through the harbour to reach Plage Petite Afrique from the train station so you may as well check it out while you’re there! If you’re visiting Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, we suggest going there in the morning and then walking into Beaulieu-sur-Mer for lunch and an afternoon soaking up the sun at the beach.

10 day south of France itinerary: Day 5 Marseille

Destination: marseille.

• Hop on a train and visit the ancient city of Marseille 
• Visit quirky neighbourhoods and have dinner at a pretty local harbour 

Today you’ll head to Marseille for three days. As it’s a 3 hour train journey it’s worth spending a couple of days to make the most of it. Use the Trainline app to check times that suit you best and book ahead. Prices vary a lot between €25 and €45 each way. There are buses as well that are cheaper, however they leave from the airport and will add another half an hour at least to your journey each way. You’ll find options for the buses on the Trainline app too. 

Where to stay

Try and find accommodation in the 1st, 2nd, 6th or 7th arrondissement close to the Old Port. It’s the area around the Old Port that is the safest and it’s also where the majority of tourist sites are. As you’re only going to be here for a couple of days it’s worth being central!   

The Old Port and Fort Saint-Jean  

The Old Port is the central hub of activity in Marseille. This area is the starting point for many local excursions including walking tours , segway tours , or boat tours to nearby islands and the calanques. Take a stroll along the port towards Fort Saint-Jean where you will get beautiful views over the coast. It’s in the Old Port that you’ll find the highest concentration of restaurants as well, just avoid anything directly on the water as the food won’t be very good and it will be way more expensive. 

Marseille Cathedral 

After exploring Fort Saint-Jean, continue on foot to the Cathedral . This impressive Romano-Byzantine Cathedral Sainte-Marie-Majeure was strategically placed close to the port which was experiencing huge economic growth at the time. These days it’s quite trendy with many bars and cafes surrounding it. 

Walk around Le Panier

Le Panier (Marseille’s old town) is definitely the prettiest and funkiest neighbourhood we saw in Marseille. There are plenty of narrow laneways with murals everywhere, lots of terrace restaurants and bars with a fun, young ambience. Le Panier is the only area in Marseille that really looks historic as a lot of the city was bombed in WWII.    

Vallon des Auffres 

In the evening head to Vallon des Auffres, a beautiful fishing port that makes for a great dinner location. It’s a 30 minute walk from the Old Port in Marseille, or a 15 minute bus (line 83, €1.70 each way). Try to arrive for sunset, it’s the perfect spot for a sundowner cocktail. There are a couple of bars right on the water (but beware they’re a little pricey).   

If you’d like a fancy dinner, eat at Michellin starred L’Epuisette famous for bouillabaisse. We ate at L’Avant Cour which is set back behind the port and absolutely loved it. It’s a little bit expensive but the food is absolutely incredible with great service and a festive atmosphere.  

Check out our detailed guide to Marseille here . 

Left: Vallon des Auffres, Right: Le Panier

10 day south of France itinerary: Day 6 Cassis and the calanques

Destination: cassis and the calanques.

• Take a day trip from Marseille to a nearby village
• Explore a national park with incredible views over azure water

A day trip to Cassis and the calanques was actually the reason we visited Marseille in the first place. The calanques are located within a national park but are surprisingly easy to access. A calanque is a natural inlet surrounded by steep rocky outcrops. The calanques at Cassis have impressive limestone jutting out over turquoise water, one of the most beautiful landscapes we saw while visiting the south of France.  

You will need to take the train from Marseille St-Charles to Cassis which takes 24 minutes and will cost €6.50 for an adult each way. Once you arrive at Cassis station there are shuttle buses to the town centre which takes 15 minutes and will cost you €2 each way (you pay the driver when you hop on). You can walk if you want to but it will take you 45 minutes and will be along narrow windy roads. You will get a walk in later, so we suggest you take the bus!    

Walk around the town and port 

The bus will drop you off in town and it’s worth taking some time to look around this beautiful town. If you’re prepared to do the extra bit of travel from Marseille, we actually suggest you stay in Cassis instead of Marseille. For two nights we think it’s worth the extra travel. Cassis is so much more charming than Marseille. If you’re visiting on a Wednesday or a Friday there will be a quaint little market in the centre of town between 8.00am and 1:00pm. Be sure to pick up some lunch from a bakery here before you start to walk out towards the calanques.  

Go for a swim at Plage du Bestouan

This beach has the easiest access to the water in the area. Further up the calanques the coast is mostly rocky with no real beaches. We made the mistake of stopping at Same Same beach bar. This was without a doubt the most expensive Aperol Spritz of my life. We would suggest you skip it and just spend some time on the pretty little public beach. The tiny pebble beach here is very beautiful with a great atmosphere.  

Walk to Calanque de Port-Miou

It’s only a 25 minute walk from Cassis to the beginning of the calanque. From here you can hire kayaks or canoes from Destination Calanques Kayak Marseille Cassis from €40 for a half day trip (either 9am to 12pm or 1pm to 4pm). If you’re keen to keep walking, continue along the Sentier du Petit Prince, which will take you to the end of the calanque to where there is a nudist beach. If you would rather not do the walk then you can book a boat tour from Marseille (such as this one for €75). But be warned you will need to book in advance for this if you’re visiting in the summer! We left this decision to the last moment and missed out.

Check out our detailed guide to Cassis and the calanques here .

Left: Calanque de Port-Miou, Right: Plage du Bestouan

10 day south of France itinerary: Day 7 Marseille + Nice

Destination: marseille + head back to nice.

• Visit some of the prettiest historic locations in Marseille
• Remember your train back to Nice in 3 hours

Today you’ll head back to Nice, but there are a couple of things you should try to see before leaving so try to book a train just after lunch. Remember it’s a 3 hour train journey and will cost between €25 and €45 each way. 

Basilica of Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde

The basilica is one of the most iconic landmarks in Marseille and offers panoramic views of the city that can’t be beat. Try to get there before 10am which is when the crowds start pouring in. It’s free to visit and open between 7am and 7pm year round. We have seen stunning photos from here at sunset as well, so if you have time on day 5 of this itinerary you can pop up here then too. You can walk from the old port in 20 minutes, or you can also take the tourist train, Petit train du Panier  which costs €7 for an adult or €4 for children. 

Palais Longchamp 

On the opposite side of town is Palais Longchamp . There’s a restaurant called Longchamp Palace, and if you put this into maps it will direct you to the restaurant and not the palace. If you’re going to see anything in Marseille make sure it’s this. The palace and gardens are absolutely beautiful. It’s free to visit but there are a couple of exhibits on either side of the fountain that you will need to pay to enter. To get to the palace from the basilica, you can either catch a bus or walk back towards the port. From there you can take the metro to Cinq Avenues Longchamp. 

Left: Basilica of Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde, Right: Palais Longchamp

10 day south of France itinerary: Day 8 Cap d'Ail

Destination: cap d’ail.

• Visit a secluded beach that gives Peter Pan vibes
• Get active and take a light hike along one of the most beautiful coastlines in France (if not Europe!)

Take the train from Nice Ville towards Ventimiglia (Ventimille) for 17 minutes and get off at Cap d’Ail (€2-3 each way).  

3-4 hours (depending on whether you want to stop for a swim and a sit down lunch). 

Plage Mala 

If you’re planning a beach day while you’re in the French Riviera, we highly recommend Cap D’ail. The most picturesque beach in the area is Plage Mala, found at the end of Sentier du Littoral (more on that below). There is a small public beach here. It’s sandy (yay!), has a bit of shade in the morning and there are amenities on site. There is also a private beach club called La Réserve de la Mala .

Plage Mala is very family friendly. If you’re wanting a little more space and don’t mind being out in the sun, there are plenty of other places along Cap Mala where you can jump in the water. It’s a spectacularly beautiful area so it won’t matter where you stop! 

Sentier du Littoral

Strolling around Sentier du Littoral de Cap d’Ail was one of our favourite mornings while visiting the French Riviera. Start from Cap d’Ail and walk towards Mala beach. The trail will take you about an hour and is 3.5km long. It’s paved the entire way with stairs in parts. It does get closed in bad weather due to access.   

Breakfast or lunch on the water 

There’s not much of a town in Cap D’ail, and the town is actually quite far from the train station. Don’t make the same mistake we did and try to walk uphill from the station to the town expecting to find coffee and a pastry. Instead, we suggest heading to Le Cabanon which opens at 9.30am and makes a great coffee stop on your walk along Sentier du Littoral. 

We stopped for lunch at Restaurant La Pinède after going for a walk along Sentier du littoral and taking a dip at Plage Mala. It’s located on the waterfront, with incredible views across to Cap Mala. The staff were SO friendly and the food was fresh and modern. We had a wonderful time here. It’s only a few minutes walk back to the train station from here, making it a very convenient stop.

Left: Sentier du Littoral, Right: Plage Mala

10 day south of France itinerary: Day 9 Nice beach day

Destination: nice beach day.

• Today is all about relaxing, pick your favourite beach club or find a spot on the public beach and stay awhile

No 10 days south of France itinerary would be complete without a beach day in Nice . A lot of beach clubs on the promenade are first in best dressed. You really need to be there by 10am to have your pick. A very popular option is Ruhl Plage (€30 per person), which has the iconic blue and white umbrellas. We arrived at about 10.30 and there was absolutely no availability! We ended up at Plage Beau Rivage which was priced exactly the same and had a wonderful atmosphere and food. 

You can opt for half day passes (if availability allows, usually in the afternoon) which is typically half the price. Note that there is an extra charge in a lot of places to have the umbrella up. Food and drinks are obviously quite expensive no matter which beach club you pick. Expect to pay between € 15 and € 20 for a starter, € 20 to € 40 for most mains and € 40 to € 60 for certain seafood.

We saw plenty of people leave their towels and books and leave the beach club for lunch. It’s not a far walk into the Old Town where you can find plenty of cheap options for takeaway lunches like baguettes or socca (a must try local dish). 

Sunset at the beach

Make sure you end your day with sunset at the beach. Pick up a pizza and a bottle of wine nearby (most corner stores near the promenade will be able to provide you with some paper cups, just make sure you don’t buy a wine bottle that needs a bottle opener). We bought a pizza a couple of times from Vabbuo and LOVED it both times. Doing this was one of our favourite evenings in Nice, just the two of us on a towel watching the candy coloured sky darken while people played in the water. 

Left: Private beach Ruhl Plage, Right: Public beach on Nice promenade

10 day south of France itinerary: Day 10 Nice (depart)

Destination: nice (depart).

Today is your last chance to see anything you’ve missed so far in Nice . Depending on your flight time you might even have time to head to the beach in the morning or one last quick day trip like Villefranch-sur-Mer which is only a 10 minute train ride away. We detailed how to get back to the airport from Nice at the start of this blog, make sure you leave yourself just over half an hour to get there.

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Thanks for stopping by!

We hope we’ve inspired you to go to visit the south of France this summer. Our 10 day itinerary takes you to what we think are the best destinations in the French Riviera, from pretty hilltop villages to pastel towns and the most picturesque beaches you will ever see. 

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This was incredibly detailed and so helpful!!! Thanks for the thoughtful itinerary!

Thanks so much Kaitlin!

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South of France Road Trip: The Ultimate Two-Week Itinerary

This South of France road trip itinerary is the perfect French holiday for those looking for beautiful beaches, adorable little villages, stunning coastal views, and delicious food. The climate in this area of France is wonderful with long summer days that stretch through to September and October. Winters in Southern France, especially along the Mediterranean coast, are always mild.

If this is your first time in the region, this South of France road trip itinerary will be perfect for you. It takes you through smaller towns, seaside retreats, lush vineyards, larger cities, and the beautiful lavender fields in Provence. You can use some of the larger cities as a base while exploring the smaller towns and villages. You can definitely mix things around in this itinerary if you want to.

There are so many places to visit in this region and of course, time is always of the essence when you are exploring new places.

We’ve put in a lot of thought into what worked best after our experience traveling through the region to bring you this is the ultimate South of France road trip itinerary. These are our tips to make the most of what these regions offer and are meant as a guide to help your Southern France road trip planning.

We’ve broken this down into various regions and included some villages/ towns that you can visit along the way. We have no doubt you’ll find places that you will want to visit more than others or you may even try to cram in as much as you can in your two weeks there! This itinerary for two weeks in the South of France is a great trip to do for families traveling with kids.

Table of Contents

South of France road trip overview

• Start:  Nice
• Suggested route:  Nice ⇒ Monaco ⇒ Cannes ⇒ Aix-en-Provence ⇒ Avignon ⇒ Montpellier ⇒Toulouse ⇒ Bordeaux
• Finish:  Bordeaux
• Duration:  14 days
• Regions covered:  Côte d’Azur, Provence-Alpes, Occitanie
• Best for:  History, sightseeing, nature, small towns, food
• Day 1: Nice (4 nights)
• Day 2: Nice

Day 3: Monaco

Day 4: cannes.

• Day 5: Aix-en-Provence (1 night)
• Day 6: Villages in Provence ⇒ Avignon (2 nights)

Day 7: Avignon

Day 8: pont du guard ⇒ uzès ⇒ nîmes.

• Day 9: Montpellier (2 nights)

Day 10: Sète

• Day 11: Montpellier ⇒ Carcasonne ⇒ Toulouse (2 nights)

Day 12: Toulouse

• Day 13: Bordeaux (2 nights)

Day 14: Bordeaux

Starting point for your south of france road trip itinerary.

This South of France road trip starts in Nice and ends in Bordeaux. The itinerary covers some of the best places to visit in the South of France. Nice is easy to reach by train from Paris or Milan or another country.

You can of course change things around and start in Toulouse or Bordeaux and finish in Nice if you really wanted to. It really all depends on where you are flying in from and what your budget is. Nice, Toulouse, and Bordeaux all have significant airports in France.

How long do you need in the South of France?

In a perfect world, you could spend weeks or even months exploring all the hidden treasures in the South of France. But if you have two weeks in the South of France, you’ll be able to cover a reasonable amount. I’d say allow a minimum of two weeks to make it a worthwhile trip. Anything less will seem like a rush.

What’s included in this South of France road trip Itinerary

The South of France is so much more than the glitzy towns of Nice or Saint – Tropez. It’s broken into many different regions that consist of everything from seaside towns, medieval countryside villages to some of the South of France’s less touristy cities like Montpellier.

South of France comprises of a number of regions that are covered in this two-week itinerary: The Cote D’Azur (also known as The French Riviera), Provence, Occitanie and Brodeaux.

Côte d’Azur (a.k.a The French Riviera): The Côte d’Azur or French Riviera is filled with glitz and glamour and includes some popular places such as Nice, Cannes, Monaco, and Saint Tropez.

Provence: Provence is one of the most visited areas in the South of France. The lush countryside bursts with charm and history. You’ll find plenty of medieval hilltop towns, beautiful laver fields, and a number of open-air markets. Areas covered in this region are Aix-en-Provence, Lourmarin, Roussillon, Gordes, Uzes, and Avignon.

Occitanie: This region is the southernmost region in France and includes two large cities, Toulouse and Montpellier. Occitanie’s Mediterranean shoreline, mountain ranges, and historical and cultural identity make it a popular tourist destination in France.

Bordeaux Region: Bordeaux is so much more than a city in France. It’s an entire region known for its wine production. Being able to visit and see firsthand how the process takes place and sampling the wine, is one of the best things you will do. And if you don’t drink wine, there’s still plenty this region has to offer.

Wherever you base yourself, there will always be a myriad of villages and towns close by. So don’t feel like you have to do it all. Just pick the places that really appeal to you and enjoy them while you are there.

The South of France invokes many different images; for some, it’s the food, for others, it’s a glamorous getaway in the French Riviera or a visit through some of the hidden treasures. With so many great places to visit, beautiful scenery, food, and culture that is hard to beat; the South of France is a region where there’s truly something for everyone.

In this itinerary, we’ll cover the most beautiful French cities, medieval towns, and natural wonders, and end off in the lush regions of the wine country.

The first stop on this incredible adventure is Nice. We based ourselves in Nice for a few days and used this time to explore the Cote d’Azur. Our check-in for our AirBnb wasn’t till later that afternoon. So, we used the time to drive around the area to get a feel for things.

Day 1: Arrive in Nice, explore Nice and Villefranche–sur–Mer

Nice is known for its beautiful waterfront promenade, lush gardens, and beautiful beaches. Arrive at Nice in the morning if you can or alternatively, the day before you start your South of France road trip. You’ll spend 4 nights here exploring the Cote d’Azur.

On arrival in Nice, we picked up our leased car and went to the neighboring town, Villefranche-sur-Mer . What a dream this little seaside town was! It is a hidden gem in the French Riviera!

Take a stroll through the Old Town and spend a few hours getting lost in the narrow cobbled streets. At the foot of the Old Town is the Romanesque Saint-Pierre Chapel. This chapel is small but worth the visit. The best thing to do in Villefranche is to walk around town and spend some time relaxing by the water. We grabbed some lunch and did exactly that.

Later in the afternoon make your way back to Nice and checked into your accommodation if you haven’t already. Our little Airbnb was the cutest little place that offered great views of the sea.

Exploring Nice

Walk through the narrow streets of Promenade des Anglais to soak up the sights of the gorgeously blue Mediterranean Sea. You never tire of strolling along this famous avenue which runs along the coast for 8 kilometers. The city is beautiful and displays traces of many different styles.

Find a cute restaurant by the beach along the way and grab an early dinner. Alternatively, grab some food from the supermarket and have a picnic at the beach. Either way, soak up the atmosphere along the French Riviera, you’ll definitely be in for a treat.

We happened to be in Nice on Assumption Day and witnessed a huge firework display that evening which we thoroughly enjoyed. It does get pretty crowded so if you aren’t a fan of the crowds, find a spot in the distance and enjoy the fireworks display.

Day 2: Explore Nice

Today you’ll continue exploring Nice. The city is known for its glittering Mediterranean beaches, picturesque Old Town, and its century-old promenade. You can spend 2 to 3 days discovering Nice. There’s something irrevocably special about the city.

Things to do in Nice

• Go for a scenic walk along Promenade des Anglais
• Explore the Vieille Ville (Old Town) on foot
• Marvel at the Musée Matisse
• Visit the gorgeous Dome of the Nice Cathedral
• Buy colorful fresh flowers in the Cours Saleya Market
• Sample the famous Niçoise Salad
• Experience the colorful Nice Carnival
• Discover the idyllic French Riviera beaches
• Take day trips to neighboring cities or towns

Start day 3 nice and early. You’ll want to head to the train station to catch one of the first few trains to Monaco. You only have a day in Monaco, so you’ll definitely want to check out the best things to do in Monaco to make the most of your time there.

This independent city-state on the French Riviera is known for its yacht-lined harbor, upscale casino, and prestigious Grand Prix. Monaco is the perfect day trip from Nice. It’s about a 30-minute train journey and slightly longer on the bus.

You’ll be wondering why we’ve suggested catching a train when you’ve probably hired a car for your duration in the South of France. We recommend against driving to Monaco. It’s a busy place, parking can be hard to find and expensive. Whereas a bus or train ride is very affordable and most of Monaco is easily walkable. We provide more detail in our Monaco guide .

You’ll spend most of day 3 sightseeing in Monaco. The key to exploring Monaco is to see the things that make it special – the glamour and the opulence. But also to go a little deeper to discover its heritage and local life. You’ll find the best things to do in Monaco are a mix of all of these.

Things to do in Monaco

• Stroll through Old Town
• Visit Palais du Prince (The Prince’s Palace)
• Marvel at the Monaco Cathedral
• Visit Oceanographic Museum
• Take in beautiful views at Port de Fontvieille Viewpoint
• Wander around Jardin Exotique
• Explore Monaco Harbour
• Take a walk along the Formula One Track
• Take a few photos at the Casino Square
• Visit the famous Monte Carlo Casino
• Coffee at Cafe de Paris
• Monte Carlo neighborhood
• Visit the Japanese Gardens
• Watch a race at the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix

On your return to Nice you could head back to Promenade des Anglais for some dinner. Alternatively, grab some food and take it back to your apartment or hotel and have a relaxing evening. We choose to stay in and enjoy the views from our balcony.

You’ll drive to Cannes from Nice this morning (you can also take a train if you prefer). There are plenty of parking garages so check ahead so you know exactly where to head to when you get to the city.

Cannes is your last stop on the French Riviera. Known for its luxurious accommodations, private beach clubs, and high-end shopping, as well as the world-famous Cannes Film Festival, Cannes truly is a dream destination for many travelers. You’ll find the rich and famous spending their free time in this city. Cannes is the kind of place you visit when you want to relax and enjoy some luxury.

Things to do in Cannes

• Explore Le Suquet (the Old Town)
• La Croix des Gardes neighborhood
• Take a photo on the famous Red Carpet
• Find the walk of stars
• The Old Port
• Take a stroll down Boulevard de La Croisette
• Unwind on the beautiful sandy beaches
• Have a drink at one of the luxury hotels
• Climb up to the castle

Other destinations in the French Riviera include Saint-Tropez which is where you’ll find the rich and famous holidaying. The French Riviera also has smaller lesser-known towns that are full of charm; Antibes, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, and Menton.

However, with this two-week Southern France itinerary, we chose to visit a few of the places to allow us more time to explore the rest of South France.

Day 5: Aix – en – Provence

From Cannes, you’ll make your way to Aix-en-Provence, a typical Provencal city in Southern France. The drive from Cannes to Aix is about 1 hr 45 mins.

Aix’s historic center boasts beautiful architecture, and artistic heritage inspired by the greatest and pretty squares adorned with stone fountains. The markets of Aix are also worth exploring alongside the historical monuments. Aix-en-Provence exudes an undeniable charm, you have to walk through its streets and squares to experience it. You’ll spend a night here which will give you a chance to relax before you start the next leg of this Southern France road trip.

The old center of Aix is small enough to explore on foot. The main center of Aix is lined with cafes, restaurants, and plenty of places to relax and enjoy the sun.

Things to do in Aix – en – Provence

• Take a walk through the city center and Old Aix
• Visit Cathedral de Aix-en-Provence
• Explore the Mazarin neighborhood
• Taste the famous calissons (a mix of almonds and candied melon with orange blossom fragrance, marzipan is a sun trap all by itself. This is the specialty of Aix-en-Provence)
• Head to Granet Museum (art museum)
• Take a walk through the gardens at Hotel de Caumont
• Visit Montagne Sainte-Victoire (if you feel up to a hike)

Market days in Aix-en-Provence are Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. You can find local products, antiques, and local crafts.

Marseille is about a 30-minute drive from Aix. So if you are feeling up to it in the evening, you can head to Marseille for great shopping and a delicious meal. It’s a city worth exploring however, with only 2 weeks in this itinerary, you’ll have to pick and choose what places you really want to visit.

Sightseeing in Marseille

• Notre-Dame de la Garde 
• Château d’If
• Cathédral de La Major
• MuCEM – Museum of Europe and Mediterranean Civilizations
• La Panier – the oldest district

Day 6: Explore small villages in Provence ⇒ Avignon

You’ll depart Aix-en-Provence nice and early to make your way to Avignon. You’ll spend 2 nights in this city exploring the region.

On your way to Avignon, you will explore the Luberon region including the beautiful villages of Provence such as Lourmarin, Roussillon, and Gordes. These villages will see you come across local farmers’ markets, beautiful streets lined with olive trees, and incredible lavender scents.

• Aix-en-Provence – Lourmarin – 40 mins
• Lourmarin – Roussillon – 35 mins
• Roussillon – Gordes – 18 mins

The Luberon Valley is known for its beauty and is a must-visit on any Provence itinerary. With beautiful hilltop villages and rolling countryside filled with lavender fields, this part of your Southern France road trip will blow your minds as it did ours.

A visit to the Luberon is to walk through the narrow streets of the perfectly perched villages such as Gordes or Lourmarin, to hike in the Ochres de Roussillon, or discover the local Provençal markets.

Nestled in the heart of vineyards, the village of Lourmarin is one of Southern France’s most beautiful villages and offers picturesque scenery, historical attractions, and delicious local cuisine. Take a walk through its narrow cobblestone streets and grab a coffee at one of the quaint cafes, it’s the perfect escape from the hustle of the city.

The walk through the village is an absolute delight. You can explore the village’s beautiful chateau, stroll through its lush vineyards, and indulge in the local cuisine.

Don’t miss the bell tower that houses the village clock. It was built in the 17th century.

Roussillon is another small village that sits at the foot of the Vaucluse mountains. It’s filled with cafes, galleries, and markets. It is famous for its colorful houses and its ocher quarries and its uniqueness comes from the orange–yellow–red cliffs. This along with the lush green vegetation and blue sky makes Roussillon magical.

Plan to spend a couple of hours here to explore the town and walk the ochre trail that goes through the natural red quarries and cliffs. The town is full of old red buildings with colorful doors. It’s a must-see on a road trip through the Provence region

Be sure to climb to the very top of the village where you’ll get incredible views of the Vaucluse mountains and Mont Ventoux. There is also a museum, Ôkhra, the Ocher eco-museum, which offers a very interesting experience. You can take a guided tour to learn all about ochres and colors, from prehistory to the present day.

Senanque Abbey

Before you make your way to Gordes, take a slight detour and head to Abbey Senaque, a sight in Provence you definitely don’t want to miss. It’s a fully functioning monastery that was founded in the 12th century and is one of the most picturesque sights you will come across in this region. They have guided tours that start every hour, and it’s one of the best ways to soak in all of the information.

They also have a little shop where you can buy some amazing lavender products and delicious fig jam.

You’ll finally finish off with this region in beautiful Gordes, a Provençal village perched up on a hilltop. Gordes is one of the most well-known hillside villages in Provence. Tourists flock to this region to take in the incredible views and atmosphere of the village. Its charm has a way of captivating everyone who visits.

Take a walk through the cobbled streets and discover the cute houses, dry stone walls, fountains, and an incredible panoramic view. In the center of Gordes, you’ll find a 10th-century castle that houses the town hall. Don’t forget to stop by Saint Firmin church, built in the 18 th century.

They have a weekly farmers market that runs on Tuesdays, so if you happen to be here on this day be sure to take a walk through the market. You can find some great local delicacies here.

You can finish your time off in this region by grabbing dinner at one of the local spots in Gordes. Then make your way to Avignon where you’ll spend the next 2 nights.

Depending on when you get into Avignon, settle into your accommodation and get a first glimpse of the city. You can make your way into town and visit the impressive Papal Palace. Avignon was once the home of popes so this place is not one to miss off the itinerary.

Today is all about exploring the city of Avignon. Avignon is a historic city best known for being the location the Popes fled to after leaving Rome in the 14th century. This led to the construction of the incredible Palais des Papes – one of the city’s most famous attractions. Its old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and as you walk through its ancient streets, you will quickly understand why! Staying here will make you feel like you are transported back in time.

The city is a popular base for exploring the wider Provence region. It has its own attractions that has a way of charming people over. In the center, you’ll find restaurants and cafes where you can stop for a well-deserved break. The streets of Avignon are filled with history and music bustling the inner-city walls.

The Notre-Dame-des-Doms cathedral, built  in  the 12th century, is famous for its bell tower at the top of which sits a golden Virgin. The stained glass windows and frescoes are sumptuous! On leaving the cathedral, be sure to cool off in Jardin des Doms (Dom’s garden’). A real haven of peace!

Here are some of the top things to do in Avignon:

• Marvel at Palais des Papes (Pope’s Palace)
• Place du Palais
• Take a stroll along Pont Saint -Bénézet
• Basilique Saint-Pierre d’Avignon
• Place de l’Horloge
• Rue des Teinturiers
• Avignon Les Halles
• Take a cruise along the Rhone
• Visit the city’s museums

While you’re in Avignon, you’ll absolutely want to visit the Pont Du Gard. The 2,000-year-old Pont du Gard aqueduct is incredibly impressive and only a 30-minute drive from Avignon. You’ll do this tomorrow after a good night’s rest.

Make your way to Pont du Guard from Avignon. You’ll want to get there when it opens to ensure you get a good parking spot and avoid larger crowds that make their way through the day.

The aqueduct is a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the best-preserved Roman buildings. Pont du Guard is the most visited ancient monument in France and remains one of humankind’s greatest masterpieces. You have to see it for yourself to understand the magnitude of this structure.

It is 48 metres high, has three vertical rows of arches: 6 on the lowest level, 11 on the second level and 35 on the third and top level. It served as an aqueduct until the 6th century before becoming a tollgate in the Middle Ages and finally a road bridge from the 18th to 20th century.  

The admissions ticket to the site allows entry to the facilities situated on the two banks of the Gardon:

• The Museum of the Pont du Gard, which you can learn about the history of the aqueduct’s construction
• A small cinema showcasing the site
• An outdoor exhibition about human occupation here since 2000 years ago
• Ludo, an entertaining and educational space for children
• Temporary artistic and scientific exhibitions
• A restaurant-cafeteria on both sides of the river

Pack a swimsuit and a picnic to take with you. When you first get there, you can walk around and cross the bridge. Find a spot where you can set up your picnic and enjoy a swim. You can also kayak under the bridge if you are feeling up to it.

It’s a fascinating historic site and one that you shouldn’t miss if you are traveling through this region.

After lunch head back on the road and make your way to Uzès which is about 20 minutes from Pont du Guard.

Known for its Middle Ages Bell Tower and picture-perfect market square, Uzès is a place you must explore for a couple of hours. You can pick up a map at the tourist office which will give you a walking route of the town. Like most small French towns, you cannot drive through the town.

Walk through the cobblestone streets, pop into a café, and grab some delicious pastries. Indulge as you walk through the town center. We found a shady tree in the central square of Place aux Herbes and sat there while we enjoyed our croissants and macaroons. La Fougasse d’Uzès has some delicious french pastry. We went back for more!

Be sure to visit the Uzè Cathedral as you make your way through the town.

Your last stop for the day in the Occitanie region is Nîmes, a 30-minute drive from Uzès. Visiting Nîmes will be like stepping back in time. Nîmes is home to several well-preserved architectural marvels from the Roman Empire, the most important one being the Arène de Nîmes (the Roman Arena), which is still used for concerts and events.

Stop by to get some gelato and snacks before you walk through the scenic 18th-century garden, Jardins de la Fontaine. Grab a seat under a tree and enjoy some quiet time here.

Other notable attractions in Nîmes include:

• Amphitheatre of Nîmes
• Nîmes Old Town and Place du Marché
• Maison Carrée
• Temple de Diane
• Carré d’Art
• La Tour Magne
• Jardin de la Fontaine

You can grab some dinner in Nîmes or head back to the town center in Avignon and finish your night off there.

Day 9: Montpellier

On day 9, you’ll make your way to Montpellier. It’s about a 90-minute drive from Avignon.

Montpellier is one of the larger cities in France but sneaks under the mass tourism radar. Most of the main attractions in Montpellier can be found in the rather condensed historic city center.

The city is best explored on foot. Make your way through the cobbled streets and discover historic monuments, museums, churches, and art galleries, or stop by one of the cafes for a bit of a break from all the sightseeing.

The weather here is incredible boasting 300 sunny days a year. So, you should have no problems exploring the city on foot.

Some of the best places to visit in Montpellier are as follows:

• Promenade du Peyrou
• Place de la Comédie
• L’Écusson (Old Montpellier)
• Cathédrale Saint-Pierre
• Quartier Saint-Roch
• Palais des Congrès de France

You’ll spend 2 nights in Montpellier to give you a bit of a breather from the fast-paced itinerary.

Sète wasn’t even a town we had heard of prior to visiting the South of France. It was when we got to the country, that our friend who is a local, suggested we make a day trip to this cute town. It’s only 45 minutes from Montpellier. If you are driving, there are a few car parks around the city, but these can get quite busy. So just be mindful of this when visiting.

Sète is etched with waterways and boasts a beautiful old port. The town falls into two parts, the low and high town. The port, canals, and bridges cover the low town, while the high town covers Mont St Clair.

It is referred to by the locals as the Venice of Languedoc. The town lies at the foot of Mont St. Clair, 175 meters above sea level. You get spectacular views of the town from the top of Mt St. Clair. You can hike, drive or catch the bus to the top.

Every year Sète hosts the ‘Joutes de Sète’ a jousting tournament from boats. The competition takes place from the end of June to the beginning of September. So if you are around this time of the year, try and plan your visit to the town during this time.

If you are short on time, take a  ‘little train’ guided tour to see the highlights of Sète.

Top attractions in Sète include:

• Sète Old Port
• Cimetière Marin
• Water Jousting
• Saint-Louis Lighthouse
• Mont Saint-Clair
• Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette
• Musée Paul Valéry
• Petit Train
• Delicious Gastronomy

Day 11: Montpellier ⇒ Carcasonne ⇒ Toulouse

On departing Montpellier, you’ll make your way to Toulouse. But before, you’ll explore a charming medieval town on the way called Carcassone.

Where do we even begin when it comes to Carcassonne? The walled, fortified city is best known for its historic city center that has been heavily restored. The city is now considered a UNESCO world heritage site. You’re guaranteed to feel as though you’ve stepped back in time and been transported right into the Middle Ages.

The city’s walls are 3km long (1.9 miles) and include 52 huge towers. There are only a handful of houses where residents live permanently within the city walls.

You can park your car in the parking lot and head over to explore the city. The beauty is you can enter and just walk through inside the city walls.

When you are done exploring Carcassone, you’ll make your way to  Toulouse.  Take your time to get there. Tomorrow, you’ll have the entire day to explore the city. Check in to your accommodation and get the first glimpse of the place.

Toulouse is the fourth largest city in France and is also known as the ‘Pink City’, where you’ll see plenty of buildings built with pale-colored bricks.

The city offers plenty of art, culture, history, and of course, mind-blowing gastronomy. Toulouse is the perfect place to try some delicious cuisine from the French countryside.

Did you know that the headquarters of European Airbus and the French space agency are located in Toulouse? If you are a space enthusiast, check out the City of Space.

You’ll have the whole day to wander around the city at your own pace. Explore the sights, sounds, and flavors of the city. The food here is some of the most divine French cuisine.

Top attractions in Toulouse include:

• Toulouse Cathedral
• Canal du Midi
• Place du Capitol
• Basilique Saint-Sernin
• Cité de l’Espace

Day 13: Bordeaux

The end of the Southern France road trip is nearing. You’ll spend your last two days in the heart of France’s most famous wine lands, Bordeaux, the world’s wine capital.

Bordeaux is mainly known for its delicious wine but the city is also so beautiful with outstanding architecture. It reminded us a lot of Paris, without the same level of mass tourists.

Bordeaux is a very walkable city and the majority of the city’s best sights are based in and around the city centre. Once you arrive, the first thing you’ll notice is the spectacular  Miroir d’eau  in front of the  Place de la Bourse . The Water Mirror creates a beautiful square.

Did you know around 80% of the land around Bordeaux is used for wine production? And aren’t you just lucky enough you’ll get to taste some of that delicious wine!

Top attractions in Bordeau

• Place de la Bourse
• La Grosse Chloche
• Pey Berland Tower
• Cathédrale Saint-André
• Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux
• Quais de Bordeaux
• La Cité du Vin
• Pont de Pierre

Don’t forget to try ‘canneles’ – local French dessert that originated here. It’s a rum and vanilla-flavored pastry with custard cream in the middle and caramelized crust. Delicious!!

Explore Bordeaux by yourself or take a guided tour. On your final day tomorrow, you’ll take a day trip and visit some of the wineries.

Today you’ll explore some of the famous wine locations in southern France. Whether you are wine tasting or visiting a small little village, you are in for a treat. You’ll at St. Emilion village, the most popular, charming town that is surrounded by some of Bordeaux’s most famous vineyards. You will also visit Medoc and Graves, two more popular towns in this region.

If you plan to visit more than one place, we would recommend either driving or takings a guided tour. You can check them out here . The good thing about a guided tour is the transportation from and back to Bordeaux is included, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. During these guided tours, you’ll experience real wine production and will get to taste some of the world’s best wine classes.

Enjoy your last evening in Bordeaux before you fly out.

That concludes this spectacular two-week South of France road trip. The purple fields of lavender, delectable food, and beautiful landscapes make your two weeks in the South of France one of the most enjoyable experiences.

This itinerary covers what we did on a two-week itinerary in the South of France. These are our insights and travel tips that will help you make the most of these regions and are meant as a guide to help your French road trip planning.

Happy Travels!

If you have more time

If you have more time in this region, I’d suggest spending a few more days in Bordeaux. Explore Archacon Bay and Dunes de Pilat in Arcachon. The dreamy beaches and delicious seafood make it a nice way to escape from the hustle and bustle of Bordeaux. 

If you are driving there, the car park is located just 400m from the dunes.

Dunes de Pilat is the tallest sand dune in Europe. It gets 2 million visitors per year and when you visit this place you’ll see exactly why. The views from up top are spectacular. And if you are feeling a bit adventurous you can surf down on a bodyboard.

You can also drive a bit further and visit Basque country. It’s a part of France that is so underrated. You have a mix of beautiful seaside towns like Biarritz, Bilbao, and Bayonne and quaint villages such as Espelette and Saint Jean de Luz amongst others.

Best Time for a South of France Road Trip

There is really no bad time to visit the South of France as it has something unique to offer any time of the year. But it’s best to plan ahead so you can make the most of your time while visiting.

The summer months between June and August are peak seasons which means higher prices and larger crowds all around. The locals also tend to take this time off and holiday in the region, making beaches and other tourist spots incredibly crowded.

September sees the end of peak season and tourism starts to quieten down. It’s generally a good time to visit southern France. The region isn’t as crowded and the temperatures are still warm during the day. If you do plan to visit the lavender fields, which is one of the highlights in Provence, you’ll need to plan your trip between June and the end of July. This is when the lavender fields are fully in bloom. By August, you’ll miss the lavenders in bloom.

Tips for Planning Your South of France Road Trip

Decide where you will fly into.

There are a few big airports you can fly into in this region, Nice, Toulouse, Marseille, and Bordeaux. You could fly into and out of Nice or either one of the other cities. Have a plan so it helps you structure your trip. We chose to fly into Nice as we were making our way from Eastern Europe. So, it made more sense for us to do it that way. We’d recommend checking flight costs to see which cities provide a cheaper option to fly in and out of.

While transport is great in France and you can use trains and buses to move between larger cities, if you really want to see some of the smaller towns and villages, we would highly recommend renting a car. In our opinion, it’s the best way to get around the South of France and find some of those hidden treasures.

Now I’m not saying you absolutely must rent a car, but what I will say is that renting a car to make your way through the South of France will be a convenient and enjoyable experience. While you may be able to get to some places by train or bus, it’s those hidden gems that you’ll miss out on if you don’t have your own vehicle. Plus, you have the added luxury of stopping as many times as you like and heading to any location your heart desires rather than being dependent on a tour. Just make sure you get insurance and a small car to make your way through some of the narrow roads.

Most highways in France are subject to road tolls. You pay at the Toll Gates, either by cash or by credit card. Make sure you’re in the right lane at these toll booths! Look for the ‘$’ and coins signs, which means you can only pay by cash at that Toll Booth. Card payments will be accepted at the toll booths under the card symbol.

You can rent through several internationally well-known companies. We leased our car as we were traveling through Europe for a number of months so it made better economic sense to lease for the duration.

Dont Change Accommodation Constantly

Base yourself in a couple of locations rather than constantly moving from hotel or Airbnb at each new place you visit. One thing we’ve learned from being on the road for months at a time is you don’t have to move each time you want to see another town or city. Sometimes basing yourself in a central location could have you well set to discover the towns and villages in the area.

Packing and unpacking your belongings, checking in and out of your hotels and/or apartments, loading and unloading the car, all these things take up more time than you might think. So, try and limit the number of times you have to move your accommodation. We’d recommend changing accommodation every 3 to 4 days if possible. Structure your trip so you can do more day trips from your base location. Choose accommodation in one part of each region. Keep in mind that this will only work if you have your own vehicle and are planning your own itinerary.

Take Time into Consideration

Plan ahead so that you can get the most out of your time in the South of France. If you have an itinerary to follow you more or less know how much time you can spend in each place.

Note: The information here is updated the best we can at the time of writing this article. Please check attractions, activities, and transport before you can as things tend to change from time to time.

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The Perfect Southern France Itinerary – 7 Days in Provence

Creating a 7-day itinerary for the South of France is no easy task. With so much to see and do, you really do have to narrow your focus a little or you could end up spending all of your time in the car!

With this in mind, I’ve created the perfect Southern France itinerary that will allow you to see many of the highlights of the region while minimising driving time and allowing you to chop and change some aspects to suit your holiday style.

This South of France itinerary focuses on what I consider to be the most beautiful and authentic area of Southern France – Provence . I’m lucky enough to call Provence home, and I love sharing my knowledge of what makes this region of France so special. So let’s jump in and start planning your holiday to Provence!

Itinerary for a Week in Provence, France

Ideally, you’ll arrive on a Friday and leave on a Friday to take full advantage of the following Provence itinerary. It’s been designed to make the most of opening times, market days and other seasonal events.

But if that’s not possible, don’t despair! You’ll still have a brilliant time, and you can mix the days up as you choose.

The following itinerary also assumes you’ll have a car available to use during your visit. Although some people are nervous about driving in France, there really isn’t too much to be concerned about. I really believe the best way to explore Provence is by car, so you can go at your own pace, discover hidden gems and stop at breathtaking roadside scenes as you go.

Tips for Getting Around Provence

• The roads are narrow, so it’s best to hire a smaller car ( book your car rental here ).
• Directions are well signposted, or you can get around with the help of a map, GPS, or map on your phone.
• Stick to smaller road networks instead of the motorway to drive alongside vineyards and olive groves, and you’ll get to see some beautiful hamlets or smaller villages that you’d otherwise miss.

Best Time to Visit Provence

It’s hard to pinpoint the best time to travel to Provence, as it depends on what you want to do while you’re here! With that said, there are definitely pros and cons for each season, so I’ll go over these briefly below.

Visiting Provence in Winter

Winter is not a popular time to visit Provence unless you’re headed for the Alps! It’s therefore much quieter around the region, but as a consequence, you’ll find a lot of the attractions are closed during this period.

• Good deals on accommodation
• Experience the ‘real Provence’
• Visit beautiful Christmas markets and experience Provençal Xmas traditions
•  Some tourist attractions closed
• Colder weather

Visiting Provence in Spring

I know I said it’s hard to pick the best time to visit Provence, but if I absolutely had to, I’d say Spring. The landscape is filled with wonderfully bright flowers, the sleepier villages start to come to life again and the weather is much more pleasant.

• The sun is out, and the weather is generally lovely by mid-late Spring
• Tourist attractions open their doors again
• Experience Easter celebrations around the region
• Spring is prime time for the Mistral to be blowing – a strong, cool wind that makes it almost impossible to enjoy outdoor activities in exposed areas. The good news is that it usually only lasts a day or so before dying off again.

Visiting Provence in Summer

Summer is, without a doubt, the most popular time to visit Provence. The days are hot and long, the lavender fields are in full bloom, and the beaches are perfect for sunning yourself. But there are also downsides to visiting in the busy period of June to September.

• Consistently hot, dry weather.
• Perfect time to enjoy swimming in the Mediterranean, or in your own pool
• Many festivals and events take place throughout July & August
• Crowds, especially on the beaches
• Some walking tracks (such as the Calanques walk ) are closed due to the risk of wildfires

Visiting Provence in Autumn

Autumn is another good time to visit Provence. The weather remains hot throughout September and the crowds begin to thin. School is back, which means mid-week trips to the beach and attractions are much quieter.

• Weather at the beginning of Autumn is hot, and it remains fairly warm throughout the season
• School is back, meaning fewer holidaymakers are around
• You can expect more rain in Autumn than in Spring.

Looking for more Provence travel inspiration? Don’t forget to join our free Facebook group  Provence Travel Planning !

Where to Stay in Provence

To choose the best place to stay in Provence, I’d advise you to have a read of our Provence Hotel Guide .

For the purposes of this itinerary, I’ve recommended the best location to stay for each day in order to reduce the number of accommodation changes throughout the week. No one likes to have to pack up and check-in/out of hotels every day!

I’m going to start the itinerary in the popular base of Avignon , but you could just as easily pick a base in many a place nearby. L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue is a good choice if you’d like a slower pace, and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a popular spot too.

Alternatively, you could do this Provence itinerary backwards and start in Aix-en-Provence !

Day 1 (1/2 Day) Pont du Gard & Avignon

Stay: Avignon

Arrival day in Provence! Whether you’re driving, taking the train, or flying into Provence, it’s going to eat up a few hours of your first day, so I’ve started this itinerary with a half-day, and it’s ending with a half-day on day eight.

Once you’ve arrived and are ready to explore – set the tone of your tour around Provence with a visit to one of the finest sites in the South of France! The Pont du Gard is just a half-hour drive from Avignon and the perfect place to spend your first afternoon.

Before leaving Avignon, pop into Les Halles to pick up some picnic supplies. Les Halles is Avignon’s centrally-located covered farmers market that’s open every day except Monday and offers an authentic way to get acquainted with the fresh flavours of the region.

Tip – If you happen to be visiting Avignon on a Saturday, don’t miss the live cooking demonstration at Les Halles at 11 am! 

Once you arrive at the Pont du Gard you can settle down for lunch with a view of the highest Roman aqueduct in the world. Depending on the weather, you may like to take a dip in the Gardon River before drying off and strolling across the bridge into the heavenly scented bush on the other side.

When you head back into Avignon, you can enjoy dinner in the old town, where you’ll find plenty of dining options – from Michelin Star restaurants to cheap and cheerful family-run bistros.

Day 2 – Avignon

Leave the car parked today and explore the sights of Avignon by foot.

Start with a visit to the most famous attraction in Avignon , Palais des Papes. Once home to the Popes (hence its name), the well-preserved palace is an intriguing place to visit throughout the morning. Take a virtual tour of the palace and papal apartments before pausing for lunch.

For a fun lunch experience, you could try the open kitchen in Les Halles – Cuisine Centr’Halles. Or simply fill up on delicious treats from the boulangerie before heading to your next stop – the Pont d’Avignon.

If you’ve seen a photo of Avignon, you’ve most likely seen a picture of its most famous bridge. Once spanning the length of the Rhône, nowadays only 4 of its original 22 stone arches remain. Take a stroll to the end, pop inside the petite chapel, and visit the exhibition that includes a couple of short films about the history of the bridge.

Tip – A combined ticket to the Pope’s Palace and the Pont d’Avignon will save you money. Buy your tickets here.

In the afternoon, head to Avignon’s elevated garden, Rocher des Doms, for stunning views of the city. The shaded garden is a good place to seek respite from the afternoon heat, have a cool drink at the café, or relax by the pond as you watch the peacocks strutting by.

Day 3 – L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue and Fontaine de Vaucluse (plus Grottes Option)

Head to the charming canalside town of L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue. Known as the antique capital of Provence, you’ll be spoiled for choice if you’re looking for a unique souvenir or memento of your time in France.

Even if you don’t visit on market day (Sunday), there are many brocantes and antique stores dotted throughout the town where you’ll find both expensive and inexpensive gems.

Enjoy lunch at one of the cafés positioned to make the most of the town’s unique situation. L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue translates to “the island on the (river) Sorgue” and you certainly feel as though you’re on an island as you explore the water framed streets. Wander past the moss-covered waterwheels that serve as a reminder of the town’s textile industry before heading to the nearby village of Fontaine de Vaucluse.

It’s in Fontaine de Vaucluse that you’ll find the source of the river Sorgue. A deep spring emerges from the craggy mountainside and flows down into the village of the same name.

As you enter the village you’ll find a small smattering of boutiques selling locally made wares, and restaurants strategically positioned to make the most of the stunning views. A short gently sloping walk will take you along a riverside path to the fountain. The fontaine always looks different – sometimes spilling over the rocks and through any stubborn trees that dare grow in its path, and at other times resting silently at the bottom of an orange-hued cave.

As an optional extra, if you have the time, the Grottes de Thouzon make for a fascinating side trip before heading back to Avignon for the night. A short walk through a grotto full of pencil-thin stalactites, cave pearls, and underground lakes will delight you, and the informative guides will make the experience a memorable one.

Day 4 – Les Baux de Provence and Glanum

History buffs will be in their element today with not one but two ancient sites to discover. But even if history isn’t your thing, there’s still plenty of variety to keep everyone happy on day 4 of our 7-day South of France itinerary.

First up you’ll be heading to Les Baux de Provence , officially one of the most beautiful villages in Provence, and home to the magnificent Château des Baux. Although the castle is now in ruins, it remains one of the most impressive châteaux in Provence , and there’s plenty left to explore within the old walls and wider grounds.

Once you’ve taken the time to wander the charming village and explore the château, head 5 mins down the road to Carrières de Lumières. Unlike anything you’ve likely experienced before, Carrières de Lumières is an art-based multimedia show set within an abandoned underground stone quarry in the Alpilles.

The exhibit changes yearly and showcases some of the greatest artists in history. The 2020 exhibition brings works from Spanish artist Salvador Dali to life. The show, “The Endless Enigma” features works spanning the length of the artist’s career. It’s truly one of the most unforgettable things to do in Provence.

Tip – Buy a combined ticket to Château des Baux and Carrières de Lumières to save money.

A short drive back in the direction of Avignon will bring you to the fortified town of Glanum. A remarkable site not far from Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Glanum is over 2,000 years old. It was destroyed by Germanic tribes in 260 AD and has remained abandoned ever since.

First rediscovered in the 16th century, it wasn’t until more recent times that serious excavation and preservation efforts have been carried out. Today you can walk among the ruins while imaging the grand structures that once stood in their place. Peek into the sacred well, rest your eyes on the remnants of the twin temples, and hear the water that flows beneath a deserted street.

Day 5 – The Villages of the Luberon

An absolute must-do on your South of France itinerary is a tour of the Luberon Villages . It’s easy to spend an entire day (or several) exploring the hillside villages and incredible scenery of this unique part of France.

Start at the Sénanque Abbey and you’ll find a wonderful scene framed by fragrant lavender fields in the summer months. From here it’s a short drive to the most famous Luberon village, Gordes .

Tuesday is market day in Gordes, so sample the freshest flavours of the region as you wander around the ancient streets. Think about visiting the Village des Bories nearby before continuing on to the pastel-coloured town of Roussillon.

Built next to an ochre mine, the village lends itself as a haven for artists and the streets are awash with galleries and generous splashes of colour. The ochre mine next door is an attraction unlike any other. Take a short but stunning walk through the dusty red canyons and pine-fringed valleys of the ochre trail before continuing your Luberon tour.

Bonnieux and Lacoste are up next. Both lovely villages with a slower pace of life and enough differences to make them both worthy of a visit. Bonnieux is lovingly restored and has sweeping views over the fertile landscape of the Luberon. Walk the stone staircase to the church at the top of the village for the best views.

Next door, Lacoste is home to a semi-restored château that you can visit during the summer months. At other times, walk around the back of the castle to view the contemporary sculptures and views of surrounding hilltop villages.

A trip to Goult and Ménerbes will round the day off nicely. In Goult, follow the signs through rustic streets to take in all the best bits. Don’t miss the restored windmill and the terraced gardens showcasing the area’s agricultural history.

Ménerbes is best explored at leisure. Stroll the bucolic village before heading to the quirky corkscrew museum nearby and end the day with a wine tasting session at Domaine de la Citadelle.

Tip – full details of your Luberon driving tour and options to extend can be found here.

Day 6 – Camargue and Arles or Nîmes

Stay: Avignon , Cassis, or Aix-en-Provence

The sixth day of your Provence itinerary will see you heading south to one of the most intriguing places in Provence.

The Camargue is Western Europe’s largest river delta with around 930 sq km of marshes and wetlands to explore. Unsurprisingly this fertile land attracts a vast array of wildlife and it’s here you’ll find over 400 species of birds including the impressive pink greater flamingos.  

The infamous black Camargue bulls also roam freely among the reeds and herds of snow-white horses – one of the oldest horse breeds in the world – live in harmony with nature.

The best way to discover this area when you’re short on time is to take a tour. Tours depart Arles and Avignon daily and will allow you to see the best of the Camargue while providing you with an interesting and informative commentary.

Book Your Camargue Tour Here.

Alternatively, you can head directly to Parc Ornithologique du Pont de Gau where you’re almost guaranteed to see flamingos in the wild.

In the afternoon, you can choose to visit Arles nearby, or Nîmes a little further afield.

Arles has a small but perfectly formed old town with plenty to see and do in an afternoon. Take a free Van Gogh walking tour to see the exact spots depicted in the late artist’s work, visit the grand amphitheatre, or take a walk through the underground Cryptoportiques.

Nîmes is a larger town but is still very walkable. It’s notable for its many Roman monuments – many of which are among the most well-preserved in the world. Be sure to take a walk through the magnificent public gardens – the Jardins de la Fontaine.

One of the first-ever public gardens in Europe, they are a fascinating mix of open green spaces, large water features, intricate sculptures, and ancient ruins. Climb to the top of the gardens for unmatched views of the city!

Day 7 – Cassis and the Calanques

Stay: Aix-en-Provence

Cassis is a charming portside town tucked in between towering cliffs near Marseille on the Mediterranean coast. It’s by far one of the more popular places to visit in the South of France due to its recent reputation as the new St Tropez .

But while Cassis benefits from its stunning geographical location, beautiful beaches, and historically interesting sites, personally I think it’s better suited as a day trip destination than a long-term holiday base.

If you arrive early enough, you can stroll through the old town, browse the colourful boutiques, take in the historic buildings, and walk the pier – all in a morning. You then have the option of dining quayside, or grabbing lunch to-go and heading to the calanques.

The Calanques of Cassis are one of the most impressive natural attractions in Provence . The first time I laid eyes on these high-rise limestone cliffs I was absolutely blown away by their incredible size and stature as they jut out into the azure blue sea.

Hiking the calanques is an ideal way to appreciate the natural beauty of this national park, but if you’re short on time, or the track is closed (as it often is during the summer months when the risk of wildfires is higher), then taking a boat tour or hiring a kayak to explore the calanques from below is the way to go.

Whichever way you decide to explore the calanques , it’s sure to be one of the most memorable moments of your trip.

Day 8 – Aix-en-Provence

The last half-day of your one week in Provence itinerary is spent enjoying Aix-en-Provence . The cultural capital of Provence really deserves a longer stay, but perhaps after being immersed in the city for a morning, you’ll be convinced to come back!

Colourful produce and flower markets are held throughout the week filling the streets with the lively atmosphere synonymous with the South of France. After you’ve browsed the wares on offer, stop for a coffee at a corner café or head to one of the famed museums to witness the true heart of this historical city .

The old town is best explored without a plan of attack. You’ll thoroughly enjoy wandering around the curved streets and hidden alleyways, coming across an elaborate – or downright eccentric – fountain at every turn. The Pavillon Vendôme is perfect for a mid-morning repose, and the iconic Hôtel de Caumont arts centre shouldn’t be sidestepped!

Tip – If you’ve forgotten to pick up Provence souvenirs or gifts for those back home, pop into the gift shop in the centrally located tourist office. They stock a small but curated selection of the region’s finest products.

It’s impossible to see everything Provence has to offer in just one week, but this 7-day South of France itinerary is sure to give you an in-depth taster of this delectable part of France !

If you’re looking to extend your trip by a few extra days, I’d suggest checking out my posts on day trips from Avignon , and Aix-en-Provence to find inspiration for a few extra days touring.

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49 comments.

Loved your Itinerary of South of France. We will be traveling in mid October.

That’s great – so glad you found it helpful!

This sounds amazing! Travelling with an almost 1 year old – do you think it’s doable basing ourselves in Avignon?

Hi Sophie, I think it’s doable with an almost 1-year-old! I remember at that age my son was easy enough to cart around with the help of a baby carrier (easier than prams on French streets!). I’ve deliberately not overloaded the days, as I don’t think rushing around does anyone any favours. So you should be fine 🙂

This is great! Thanks for sharing this one week itinerary to visit Southern France, it indeed is perfect! This will be our itinerary come this week. Appreciate much!

You’re most welcome Berna! I hope you enjoy your time in Provence 🙂

We will be visiting Southern France in Mid May 2019. Your information has been very helpful for our planning. Thank you!

You’re so welcome! Glad you found it helpful 🙂

This is an absolutely fantastic itinerary and so wonderfully well-explained; the best I’ve found anywhere on the Internet. It has helped us immensely to organise our own itinerary. Thank you so much!

This makes me so happy to hear! Thanks for your lovely comment and I hope you have a fantastic holiday in Provence 🙂

Thank you Nadine – terrific suggestions. WE will be heading there in early June 2019 and have almost 2 weeks to spend there. FRom Aix, any suggestions for adding 4 or 5 days?

Hi Beth, with an extra few days you’ll want to spend an extra day getting to know Aix itself. You could also head over to the Verdon Gorge which is breathtaking, as are the surrounding villages. You could spend longer getting to know the Luberon area, and around Sault. Head to St Remy for a stroll, Nimes is a fantastic city for history and gardens and Marseille waterfront area is great for a day trip too. It should be fairly warm by then, so the beaches south of Martigues are perfect and not too busy then!

Planning a spring or fall 2019 trip to Provence- your itinerary looks really good! any concerns about driving? For seniors?

Hi Dick, the advice I’d give you regarding driving, is to hire a small car, and take your time. Allow plenty of time to get around so you can stop and take in the view when it suits you. Try to avoid the main large roads as these can get very busy – especially during peak times. And have some kind of GPS on you. Hope you have a great time 🙂

Your blog post is super helpful (and beautiful pictures as well!). I love that you provided highlights for each of the places mentioned. My husband and I have booked a 10 day trip to France for Feb 2019 and were wondering if you could provide some advice. Here is our tentative itinerary:

Feb. 10th – land in Paris at 10am Feb 10th – 14th: stay in Paris (with a day trip to Versailles on Feb. 13th) Feb 14th – take TVG to Nice (19Euros per person one-way direct) Feb 14th – 17th – stay in Nice (and surrounding region) Feb. 17th – rent car and drive to Aix-en-Provence Feb 17th – 19th – stay in Aix-en-Provence (or somewhere else) Feb 19th – take TVG back to Paris (19Euros per person one-way direct) Feb. 19th – stay in Paris Feb 20th – take flight back home in the morning

What are your thoughts? Do you think we are spending enough nights (or not enough) in each of these regions? Or would you recommend just spending 5 nights in Paris and 5 nights in Nice to keep it simple? Given that it will be winter, would you recommend other regions instead (Annecy? Chamonix (although we don’t ski). Thanks!!

Hi Nadia, so sorry for the delayed reply. Oh, it’s so hard when you only have ten days to explore! So I think you’ve done the right thing by choosing just two areas to explore this time around. I’m kind of biased, but I think Paris and Provence is a good place to start. And then you can plan another trip to France to see some more at a later date 🙂 To answer your question, I think it looks pretty much spot on. Again, I may be a bit biased but I’d cut one day off Nice and move it to Aix – to allow yourself time to explore this side of Provence more. You could even scrape one day off Paris at the beginning – but it depends whether you’re more into city attractions or cultural/countryside attractions. You can see a lot of Paris in 2/3 days. Hope that helps a little and apologies again for the delay!

Wonderful itinerary- thank you for sharing your advice. We are planning on traveling to France this May as a family of 5. The plan is to fly into Paris for a few nights before heading to Provence for 6 nights. I know you recommend driving in Provence, but do you have any suggestions regarding transportation from Paris to Provence? We don’t have any interest in going to Nice during this time, so we would prefer not to fly into that airport. Any advice is appreciated!

Hi Laura, your best bet is to take the TGV to Aix-en-Provence or Avignon – depending on where you’re intending on staying. You could fly into Marseille, but I find the train journey to be much more pleasant and straightforward! Hope that helps 🙂

Thank you, Nadine!

You’re most welcome 🙂

My wife and I are planning to spend 5 days based out of Aix-En-Provence (with hotel points so we are limited there). Do your recommendations change at all if Aix is our home base? We are total wine freaks and love touring the little villages!

Hi Jonathan, with only 5 days, and based in Aix, I’d suggest spending at least two days in the Luberon (where you’ll find plenty of little villages and wineries). Have you read my post about touring the Luberon yet ( find it here )? It has lots of suggestions for driving routes. Then a day maybe down by the coast, around Cassis and the Calanques, a day getting to know Aix, and maybe a day heading over towards Valensole and the Verdon Gorge. More lovely villages around the lake, and if it’s the lavender season (June/July) its the best place to find beautiful fields!

This is really helpful. I’m planning my trip this first week of June 2019. I’m travelling alone though, will you still recommend the same places? Or can you suggest other places as well. I’m thinking of spending 10-15 days after Bordeaux &Lourdes. Thank you very much for your recommendations.

Hi John, yes absolutely! You could also add in the Verdon Gorge (and surrounding villages), the coast around Niolon/Martigues, Sault, or Marseille if you like the city vibe. And/or spend more time in Aix-en-Provence or the Luberon. So many options, sorry 😉

Hello Nadine, Can you give me your thoughts on this itinerary? Houston to Nice, stay in Eze two nights(possibly visit Antibes, Menton, And Vence) drive to St. Remy for three nights(traveling to area village) and Aix for two nights. Fly out of Marsielle. Love your blog!!!!

Hi Melissa, your itinerary looks good to me! By staying in all three areas you’ll get a really good ‘taster’ of these areas – which are all quite different. Have a great trip!

We will be going to South France in May 2019.

Arriving Avignon on 13May for 3 nights. After then 1 night in Provence and 2 nights in Nice.

We have not plan much with our itinerary. Will you be able to help.

Thanks and regards Doreen

Hi Doreen, unfortunately, I can no longer offer personalised itineraries. However, I’d suggest starting by reading my Day Trips from Avignon and Day Trips from Aix-en-Provence articles and noting down which things interest you most and going from there. If you’re staying in Avignon you’ll most likely want to spend a day getting to know the city too – it’s lovely and there is plenty to do! Sorry, I don’t have much written about Nice as yet!

My parents and I have just returned from a wonderful week in Provence. We largely followed your itinerary so I wanted to say thank you! It really saved me a job of researching and coming up with my own itinerary for which I was really grateful! We loved how every day was different (we added a St Tropez day too) and couldn’t actually pick a favourite day as each day offered so much. Unfortunately, though we bought tickets, we didn’t actually go to Carrières de Lumières as the queues were quite ridiculous – which was surprising as we experienced very few queues anywhere else. Instead, we continued straight to Glarnum and really enjoyed the site. In Cassis, we also drove the Corniche des Cretes (which I have visited before) to take in the wonderful view – it was just as impressive as I remembered.

I’m heading back to the South of France this summer to spend a month in Nice/Villefranche-sur-Mer – I cannot wait! I’m hoping for more of the same wonderful weather!

Anyway, thank you again!!

Ah – you are so welcome Sheralyn! Thanks for telling me about your experience and for the lovely feedback. Much appreciated 🙂 Enjoy your time on the Côte d’Azur! Best, Nadine

Hi Nadine, We have about 10 days in Provence this summer (July 26-August 9) after four to five days in Paris. Two of our three children have multiple food allergies, so we plan to rent a house as home base so we can pack and prepare some meals. We would like to do as much as possible on your itinerary. Is this doable staying in just one location? (We would rent a car). If so, where would you suggest we stay? I found a lovely home in Louramin and another in Villars. Are these too remote? The other possibility is finding two different houses to rent but that can get tricky with seven day minimums with most rentals. Thank you! Laura

Hi Laura, Yes renting houses normally comes with a one-week min rental in summer. But don’t worry, it’s totally doable staying at just one location. We often do all of these places as day trips from our home in Rognes. Villars would be good for visiting the Luberon, but Lourmarin is better located for exploring – I’d go with that. It’s a lovely village too. Otherwise, you could look at a village further south for good access routes, like Venelles or Puyricard but they don’t have the same feel as the villages in the Luberon. Hope you find something amazing! Best, Nadine

Sorry, I meant to type Lourmarin. Thank you!

We expect to be there mid to late February next year. I was wondering how the 7 day tour would stack up in winter. It sounds perfect to me and touches on most things we want to see and experience. Are there other places we should go instead. I suspect there will be some rainy days, and it really isn’t swim suit weather but there will be enough and more…. to just be there. So do you get snow there? Is Carnival celebrated there? What would be the best place to stay in winter? So glad I found your site.

Hi Nancy, it changes every year so hard to say specifically. Last February we had a tiny bit of snowfall in February and this year we’re seeing temperatures of up to 20 degrees (Celcius) already and beautiful blue skies – very little rainfall actually as that normally comes later. There are just a few attractions that won’t be open – Carrières de Lumières for example – and less frequent markets, but other than that it’s business as usual. Carnival is celebrated nearby, in Nice, mid-late Feb. For a winter stay I’d still recommend Avignon or Aix as a base for exploring the region. Hope that helps – feel free to pop over to our Provence Travel Planning Facebook group if you have more questions 🙂

We are a kiwi family of 4 and will be arriving in Provence in mid Sept for 11 days. Your itinerary looks fantastic but I’ve seen your comments about driving, particularly the small roads. We have toured that area before in smallish hire cars but this time we were planning to do 1 week in a camper van because the kids love the idea but I’m worried that it will stop us seeing places due to its size / parking etc. As you live there I’d really appreciate your thoughts.

Thanks, Duncan

Hi Duncan, yes I normally recommend smaller cars if you’re inexperienced driving on smaller roads. But as it sounds like you’ve done it before, and if you have experience with campers, you may find it’s ok. With the villages in the Luberon, you’ll need to park outside the villages anyway and there are often large carparks outside for this purpose. Some attractions also have dedicated camper parking – normally a little further away. For example, at the Village des Bories outside of Gordes, there is campervan parking, but quite far away, as the road to access the village is too narrow. Places like the Camargue and Pont du Gard, Avignon & Aix etc you’ll have no trouble I’d imagine. So, it won’t stop you – just be prepared to walk a little further in some cases! Have a fab trip 🙂

Thank you for this! We are a family of 5 who will be visiting the last week of September and basing ourselves in Alleins. Your blog is very helpful! We’d love to do do canoeing, hiking and biking. Do you think the weather at that time of year will be be warm enough to swim in the river or in the sea? Thanks!

Hi Julia, first of all, Alleins is a great village as a base! We used to live there and still have our Airbnb in the village. As for swimming, it’s typically still swimmable in September, as it has had all summer to warm up, but the temperature does taper off a bit by the end of the month. It depends how brave you are 😉 I don’t find our ‘part’ of the Med ever gets super warm… You might be better off going to Lac de Sainte Croix which is absolutely stunning and a must-do if you’re an outdoor loving family! Hope you have a fab time. Nadine

Wonderful itinerary, thank you so much!! My husband and I are coming Oct 11-21 for our honeymoon! We fly into Barcelona and will be renting a car and driving up to Provence area.We get in mid afternoon to Barcelona so we are planning to rent our car and stay on the Costa Brava the night we get in. Then exploring that area for a bit on Sunday, then driving up to France. Wondering what you would recommend- here are our options we have been debating:

1. When driving up from Barcelona, veer off to Carcassone and Toulouse (probably would also visit Albi) for a few days. Then drive over to Provence area, probably Avignon to stay, and be in Provence for around 4-4.5 days. Then drive back to Barcelona.

2. After leaving Costa Brava, drive straight to France, probably stop in Narbonne for the night on the 13th. Head to Avignon and spend the entire time we are there in Provence- doing similar things to what your itinerary outlines. We would have about 6-6.5 days in Provence.

3. After leaving Costa Brava, drive straight to France, probably stop in Narbonne for the night on the 13th. Head to Avignon and spend whole time there. Do a day trip (or potentially a few days) in Lyon.

Which would you recommend? Or is there something we should do even differently? Thanks!!

Hi Melanie, apologies for the delay with my reply. With ten days up your sleeve, you certainly have a fair bit of time to look around. I loved Narbonne when I visited, but I’m not sure how lively it is in October. And I’ll admit I’m not familiar with Lyon yet. I guess it depends if you’re more city people, or village people! Avignon is a beautiful city, that feels more like a large village, especially if you stay in the centre. I would think 6-7 days is a good time to explore the best of what Provence has to offer. And my inclination would be that if you want to see somewhere a little different, to do the Carcassone option on the way. Rather than going all the way up to Lyon. Hope that helps a little!

Hi Nadine, we are travelling to France in january 2021 and depart on a cruise leaving Marseille on 16 january for 8 days. We arrive in Nice about 4/01/20 and would like advise on what to do after that as we want to hire a car and visit the Provence area and the south of Spain for the next 10 days. Do we hire a car in Nice or travel by train to Marseilles or Avignon at where we will hire a car. Because it is winter, we would like to visit Annecy from Lyon, by train or bus to Annecy. Please suggest an itinerary from your experience.

Hi Geoffrey, Seeing as your cruise is departing from Marseille, I’d recommend taking the train (or FlixBus) from Nice to Marseille and hiring a car there. This way you won’t get charged one-way fees that can be quite high. With ten days you could take in Marseille (& Cassis), Aix, Avignon, the Luberon & the Camargue area fairly easily before heading down to Spain. However, you won’t have time to drive to Southern Spain unless you want to spend a lot of time in the car! I’d recommend Catalonia instead. I’m not sure how the Lyon/Annecy trip fits in? Is it part of the ten days, or in addition? Best, Nadine

Thank you for writing this informative article .i have read twice a time

Hi, Nadine, your itinerary is just perfect for our trip that I’m planning for the fall of 2021 for our 30th anniversary. We’ve never been to France and want to fly into Paris, spend 2 days there and then take the train to follow your itinerary. After that we want to make our way down to the Val D’Orcia in Pienza and spend a week at our favorite agriturismo. Is it possible to take a train from Aix to Florence (that’s where we would transfer to get to our car rental in Terantola)?

Hi Judy. I do believe it would be possible. But train travel between the south of France and Italy isn’t normally fast, cost-effective, or straight forward from my experience! I think you may find it’s easier and cheaper to fly from Marseille to Florence. Or from Marseille to Rome and then take the high-speed train to Florence.

Can’t wait

I love your itinerary but I will be traveling with a group that does not want to “move around”. I would love your input on a 5 vs 6 night stay in St Remy. I will be bringing family (total of 4 couples) to Provence April 23-30, 2022. They do not like to “pack & unpack” so I will rent a luxury farmhouse in St. Remy for the either 5 or 6 nights. We will fly back to the US on April 30th. I cannot decide if we should spend 5 nights in St Remy then the last 2 nights at a waterfront hotel on the French Riviera (would have to be within 1 hr of the Nice airport OR the other option is to spend 6 nights in St Remy then just the last night close to the Nice airport. Do you think it’s worth moving those last two nights?? Would it allow enough time to see a little of the French Riviera?? Thank you for any suggestions you might have! Jane

If you have your heart set on seeing the seaside, I’d recommend a 5-night stay in St Remy and 2 nights on the Riviera. But keep in mind, April can be a mixed bag weather-wise and the mistral wind (frequent in spring) can make the seaside unenjoyable some days.

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Happily Ever Adventures

24 Stunning Stops for Your South of France Road Trip Itinerary

Europe · France · Travel

Ah the South of France. Our favorite place in the world to travel to. We recently went on a 10 day South of France road trip and it was hands down our favorite trip ever. We are actually going back for our anniversary this year to do another South of France road trip. If you’d like to experience it for yourself, we’ve created a 10 day south of France itinerary to share with you. We’ve also included all things you need to know for your south of France vacation, so get ready, this is a very comprehensive guide! 

First things first, this south of France road trip itinerary is for 10 days, but in a perfect world, you’d be able to spend much longer in the south of France. From the sparkling seas, magical fairy tale villages, and idyllic countryside of Provence to the colorful and glam streets of the French Riviera, there is A LOT to do and see on a south of France vacation {as well as a lot to eat!}

We would love to spend a full month exploring the south of France, but we are limited by things like vacation days, budgets, and a never ending travel bucket list. If you are able to spend more than 10 days in the south of France, we highly recommend 2-3 weeks in order to create your perfect south of France itinerary.

If you’re limited on time like we usually are, we’ve got you covered with this 10 day south of France road trip itinerary {as well an alternate itinerary}, exploring the highlights of Provence and the French Riviera. We had a very difficult time planning our south of France travel plans because the region is just so large! We couldn’t fit in everything we wanted to see and we spent many long nights trying to figure it out.

Eventually we just accepted that we would need to narrow down what we could see and we could always come back. Here is the itinerary we followed {and loved!}, as well as an alternate south of France itinerary suggestion. Both south of France itineraries cover the highlights of Provence and the French Riviera. This way you will be able to visit the most popular towns and get a reference point for where you’d like to explore more of if you choose to come back. If you’d prefer to focus your time in just one area, check out our guide to the Luberon . We hope our south of France travel itinerary will help streamline your planning and you have an amazing south of France road trip!

24 Stunning Stops for Your South of France Road Trip Itinerary:

Covering the highlights of provence and the french riviera, this post contains affiliate links.

The perfect 10 day south of France itinerary:

A few notes before we get started:.

This south of France road trip itinerary starts off in Provence and ends in the French Riviera. We’ve laid it out this way assuming that you are flying in and out of Nice. We find it most time efficient to fly into Nice, rent a car at the airport, have a home base in the Luberon to explore Provence, and finally enjoy the French Riviera before departing out of the Nice airport. You can of course do this the opposite way; this is just our opinion.

For the purposes of this south of France itinerary, we’ve used L’Isle Sur La Sorgue { read why we feel this is the best home base in Provence } as the home base in Provence and Nice as the home base in the French Riviera. Even if it meant more driving, we preferred having a home base because it really helped us get to know the area we were staying in, we were able to pretend to be locals by having a routine in the area, and we preferred the convenience of not moving around too many times.

We’ve arranged the days to space out the longer driving days with shorter drives days. Feel free to rearrange the days to fit your needs, as well as accommodate for the market days whenever possible

This south of France itinerary is a slightly hectic schedule to fit in the most possible. The beauty of the south of France, especially Provence, is the slow pace lifestyle and the relaxation. Feel free to skip cities {even if they are major ones!} so you can truly relax and enjoy the magic of the south of France. We’ve included all the best places to visit in the south of France, but pick and choose what works for you and your itinerary. 

This south of France itinerary focuses more on Provence than the French Riviera. This is just the part of the south of France that we preferred. With only 10 days, you will most likely be heavier in one portion of the south of France than the other. It is difficult to see both Provence and the French Riviera thoroughly in 10 days.

If you have longer than 10 days to spend in the south of France {lucky you!}, you can definitely spend more time in each of the towns we’ve included. There are plenty more towns you can add as well! This book lists all the towns that are designated the prettiest towns in France and will give you some good ideas!

It goes without saying that wandering is the top things to do at any of the recommended towns, but we’ve also included a few points of interest as well. Please take your time to slow down and wander as much as possible! That’s really how you’ll experience the magic of the south of France. It’s really not about hitting a specific list of sites, it’s more about discovering each town and village

We hope our sample south of France road trip itinerary helps you create the perfect itinerary for your own south of France vacation! Here are the best places to visit in the south of France!

South of France Road Trip Day 1: Nice to L’Isle Sur La Sorgue {possible stop in Cassis}

Estimated Drive Time (I’sle Sur La Sorgue only}: 2 hours, 30 minutes

Estimated Drive Time (with stop in Cassis}: 3 hours, 30 minutes

Arrival day! The south of France itinerary starts in Nice!

Most likely you will arrive in Nice and drive to L’Isle Sur La Sorgue, where you’ll be staying as your home base for the Provence portion of the trip. If you’re coming from another part of France like we did, you can also just drive straight to L’Isle Sur La Sorgue. ( Here’s why we recommend staying in L’Isle Sur La Sorgue ) If you prefer staying somewhere else, Saint Remy is another great choice. 

| search accommodations in L’Isle Sur La Sorgue | search accomodations in Saint Remy | 

If you land in the morning and have a full day ahead, you can stop in Cassis for a few hours before heading to L’Isle Sur La Sorgue. Cassis is a gorgeous sea front town that you can easily spend 1-2 days at. With a rushed south of France itinerary like this, a half day should be okay. That was all we had and without partaking in any water activities, it was enough time to explore the town. Every little corner of this seafront town is absolutely gorgeous! We couldn’t stop taking photos!

Things to do in Cassis:

• Hike Calanques de Cassis (bring comfortable shoes if you want to hike)
• Try Creme de Cassis (a liquor made from blackcurrant. I especially adore it in a Kir Royale , champagne with creme de cassis)
• Check out the view from Cap Canaille

South of France Road Trip Day 2: L’Isle Sur La Sorgue + Fontaine de Vaucluse

Estimated Round Trip Drive Time:  30 minutes

We highly recommend spending a full day exploring your home base of L’Isle Sur La Sorgue. You can also fit in a few hours at the nearby village of Fontaine de Vaucluse. If at all possible with your south of France itinerary, have your L’Isle Sur La Sorgue day be on a Sunday, as the whole town turns into a giant food and antique market. It’s quite an experience and what the town is famous for! If there’s no way you can be there on a Sunday, there are antique markets all week, you just don’t see the whole town turn into one.

Things to do in L’Isle Sur La Sorgue:

• Antique market –  there are small stores all week, but on Sundays the entire town turns into one big antique market
• Dinner at Le Vivier – Located in a nondescript shopping center, it was one of our favorite meals during our south of France vacation and very affordable for such a nice dinner. We had the best bottle of wine of our whole France trip here
• Check out our L’Isle Sur la Sorgue guide for more

For more on L’Isle Sur La Sorgue, check out this guide 

South of France Road Trip Day 3: Oppede, Menerbes, and Bonniuex

Day 3 of our south of France itinerary has you exploring the villages of Oppede, Menerbes, and Bonniuex in the Luberon region of Provence. The villages are small enough that you can experience all of them in a single day.

Our day was a bit rushed for a few reasons: we took way too much time taking photos in Oppede, we had a 3 hour lunch in Bonniuex, and we went in the fall when the days are shorter.

If you have room in your itinerary and like to take a slower pace, you could do Oppede and Menerbes in a day and spend an entire day in Bonnieux. This will allow you a leisurely pace. If you don’t have time, you can do all 3 in a day.

An old village dating back to the 12th century with picturesque cobbled streets and plenty of french blue shutter windows. It’s so incredibly charming! It’s a very quiet town and perfect to explore for just an hour or two. You really don’t need much time here because it’s so small, but we spent several hours wandering around because every single corner is just so pretty and charming. 

Park your car at the entrance, which is considered the “new village” and walk to the “old village”. 

Things to do in Oppede:

• The Old Village –  Ruins of the castle and several chapels. It’s a beautiful walk with with lots of Roman ruins and historic charm
• Grab a small bite at Le Petite Cafe –  If it’s open while you’re there, this is a very cute, colorful, and whimsical spot to sit for a bite to eat

Another impossibly charming town full of french blue shutter windows. We felt we were walking on a movie set. Menerbes is named one of the most beautiful villages in France and you’ll easily be able to see why. Most of Peter Mayle’s stories take place in Menerbes and he lived just outside of the village for most of his time in Provence.

Things to do in Menerbes:

• Truffles and wine at Maison de la Truffle et du Vin –  An amazing spot to try local truffles and sample some delicious wine of the region
• Castellet –  A beautiful 15th century fortress

Built on a plateau above the valley, Bonniuex has some of the best views in the region. We think this is one of the villages you can’t miss. From the picturesque cobblestone streets and the amazing views to the fabulous dining and the fantastic market, Bonnieux offers so much Provencal charm for day 3 of your south of France itinerary.

Things to do in Bonnieux:

• Vieille-Eglise-de-Bonnieux –  A 12th century church and the landmark of the town. Climb up to the top for a stunning view of the valley
• Friday Market –  The Bonnieux market may be one of the best in the Luberon
• Wine tasting at Chateau la Canorgue –  The gorgeous winery where “The Good Year” was filmed

If you run out of time and want to do Bonnieux another day, you can also add Lacoste or Maubec to that day!

For more detailed information on these villages, check out our post on the Luberon

South of France Road Trip Day 4: Uzes

Estimated Round Trip Drive Time: 2 hours, 30 minutes

Day 4 of the south of France itinerary takes you to the white stone town of Uzes. Wandering around Uzes feels like you’ve discovered a hidden little town. We weren’t expecting much and were planning to only spend a few hours there, but we ended up spending the entire day because we found the 12th century architecture and cobblestone streets so charming. If you think you’ll move at a quicker pace, you can add a quick stop in Uzes to a longer day in Avignon. 

Things to do in Uzes:

• Market –  On Saturdays and Wednesdays. The largest market is on Saturdays and is full of musicians!
• Ice cream at La Fabrique Givree – They offer seasonal and exotic flavors with ingredients imported from all over the world. We enjoyed a 6 scoop tasting platter for $7
• Historic area – Wander around and check out the Medieval Garden, the Fenestrelle tower, and the Cathedral of Saint Théodorit
• Place aux Herbes – the main square of the town. You’ll find plenty of shops and restaurants. This is a good spot for lunch or pre dinner drinks. You’ll want to go elsewhere for dinner. I purchased handmade little porcupines that have spots for toothpicks on their backs to use for serving. So cute and unique! 
• Musée du Bonbon – A candy museum! 
• St Quentin la Poterie – A nearby ceramic producing village with plenty of stores at wholesale prices. You can get much better deals here than at the shops in Place aux Herbes

South of France Road Trip Day 5: Avignon

Estimated Round Trip Drive Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Day 5 of the south of France itinerary is in one of the largest towns in the south of France: Avignon. The main attraction is the Papal Palace which towers over the town and there’s also plenty of arts, shopping, and culture. It’s a bustling student town, with lots of activity going on at all times.

I will be very honest, Avignon was not our favorite stop on our South of France road trip; we much preferred the smaller towns. That being said, visit and judge it for yourself, as it’s an extremely popular town in the South of France. We’ll be visiting again later this year to give it a second try. 

Things to do in Avignon:

• Palais des Papes – A UNESCO World Heritage Site that was built to house the popes who fled Rome in the 14th century. You can admire it from the outside or explore the rooms that are open to visitors
• Walk along Pont Saint-Bénézet – Legend has it the bridge was built by a 12 year old shepherd who was instructed by angels to build the bridge in 1177 and was given super human strength to raise a large rock to use for the construction
• Les Halles Market – A large food hall filled with a large range of vendors. This is the perfect spot to grab supplies for a picnic! It’s open every day except Monday from 6am – 2pm. 
• Explore the old city – Avignon’s old town is surrounded by 2.5 miles of 14th-century stone walls. It’s the perfect place to wander!

South of France Road Trip Day 6: Rousillon and Gordes

Estimated Round Trip Drive Time: 1 hour, 6 minutes

Day 6 of our South of France itinerary has you exploring two of our favorite towns: Roussillon and Gordes. Both of them are on “ Les Plus Beaux Villages “,  a list of the prettiest villages in France. Because Roussillon is such a small town, you can explore it the same day as Gordes. If we had more time, we would’ve spent a full day in each one because we loved both so much!

As Marie Mauron famously said, “Who wouldn’t love Roussillon, if they love light, color, ardor, vast horizons and that pristine peace of the starry southern nights?” The entire village appears to be sun soaked in a myriad of orange, red, and dusty pink hues. It’s so incredibly gorgeous and has long attracted artists. This is a must visit on your south of France vacation.

Things to do in Roussillon:

• Les Sentier des Ocres –  This looped walk offering beautiful panoramic views. There is a 30 minute loop and a 50 minute loop, depending what you have time for. You’ll also get to see the ochre the village is famous for and what gives it the beautiful orange and red hues. The ochre deposits in Roussillon are the largest in the world!
• Art Galleries –  Roussillon is full of art galleries and has long been home to many artists. You may see the artists at work in their galleries; many of them creating their masterpieces with pigments from the village
• Read our full guide to Roussillon

Gordes just may be the South of France’s crown jewel. The drive to Gordes is stunning, as is the whole village and the views from its hilltops. The entire village is made from stone, even the gates! Just outside of Gordes is the picturesque Senanque Abbey, which was made famous by its stunning lavender fields.

Things to do in Gordes:

• Senanque Abbey –  12th century monastery with beautiful lavender fields in the summer. Stop by to view the gorgeous property even if the lavender isn’t in bloom
• Dining at Les Bories –  This was one of our favorite dinners on our south of France Road trip
• Read more about Gordes here

South of France Road Trip Day 7 (Option 1): Baux de Provence and Saint Remy de Provence

Estimated Round Trip Drive Time: 1 hour, 44 minutes

If you choose this itinerary for day 7 of your south of France trip, you’ll visit one of Bassam’s favorite villages: Baux de Provence. It’s small enough that you’ll only need a few hours, so you can visit Saint Remy de Provence after. If you move at a quick pace, you can also stop by Arles. 

Baux de Provence:

Baux de Provence is a picturesque medieval village at a fortified rocky site between Arles and Saint Remy. It receives 1.5 million visitors a year, while only containing 22 residents. It’s busy pretty much year around, but off season is a lot lighter. We don’t recommend going in the summer if you prefer to avoid crowds. 

Things to do in Baux de Provence:

• Wander Les Baux Village  – The medieval village is absolutely beautiful to explore and you’ll come across candy shops, souvenir shops, and some food vendors. Plan to spend 1-3 hours exploring
• Visit Chateau des Baux – A clifftop castle that was largely destroyed on 1633. There are maze like ruins and crumbling towers that you can explore and a wonderful view. During the summer, there are all kinds of medieval themed events
• Dinner at Oustau de Baumaniere – A 2 Michelin star restaurant with wonderful reviews 

Check out our quick guide to Baux de Provence

Saint Remy de Provence:

Saint Remy de Provence is a charming village where Van Gogh committed himself for psychiatric treatment and produced some of his best work while institutionalized. It’s best known for the Roman ruins that lay close by and it’s bustling art and food scene.

Things to do in Saint Remy de Provence:

• Dine – There is tons of great dining in Saint Remy, including two Michelin star restaurants:  La Maison Jaune and La Maison a Bournissac. We ate at a more causal and lower priced, but delicious, restaurant: L’Aile ou la Cuisse
• Art – You can visit the instutition Van Gogh was treated it,  St. Paul de Mausole   and visit his room (which still has paint on the floor). You can also walk the grounds which inspired some of his work. There are also plenty of art galleries and two museums: Le Musee des Alpilles and Musee Estrine
• Festivals – Saint Remy de Provence is home to festivals year around, including art, jazz, and wine festivals. Check out what’s going on the time of year you visit

South of France Road Trip Day 7 (Option 2): Cassis and La Ciotat

Another option for Day 7 for your south of France itinerary is to visit the seaside towns of Cassis and La Ciotat, if you didn’t already visit Cassis on your arrival day. If you did already visit Cassis and you want to visit another seaside town along with La Ciotat, you can do Marseilles. 

South of France Road Trip Day 7 (Option 3): Apt & Lacoste 

A third option for Day 7 of your south of France itinerary is to visit Apt. This was a town that we had heard wonderful things about, but we weren’t able to fit into our own south of France trip. It’s on our list to visit next month and we’ll be sure to update our post after.

Apt is best known for it’s giant market, so be sure to plan your visit on market day. 

South of France Road Trip Day 7 (Option 4): French Riviera

If you’d like to spend more time in the French Riviera, head there a day earlier so you can explore an extra town.

South of France Road Trip Day 8: Drive to Nice and spend the day in Nice

The rest of the south of France itinerary has you based in Nice to explore the French Riviera! If this isn’t enough French Riviera for you on your south of France vacation, we’ve included an alternate itinerary that is more heavily based in the French Riviera than this one.

Nice is the perfect home base for you to stay while in the French Rivera. Being the largest city, it has plenty of options for accommodations and is centrally located to all the towns you may want to explore. 

Things to do in Nice:

• Try socca – Chickpea crepes that Nice is famous for. You can purchase them from any street vendor, but we tried an upscale version at L’Atelier (a small husband and wife owned Michelin recommended restaurant) and loved it!
• Dine on Salade Nicoise – You may have had a Nicoise salad before, but since it originated in Nice, we suggest having it for lunch with a glass of rose. A classic Nice lunch! You can also get it as a sandwich if you prefer
• Wander in Vieux Nice (Old Nice) – Truly the most charming part of Nice! We spent the majority of our time wandering here. It’s full of beautiful architecture and pastel colored buildings. At the center is Place Rossetti, which is the town square and offers plenty of dining options
• Plage Beau Rivage Beach Club – The iconic Nice beach club that’s full of blue and white stripe umbrellas. Even if you don’t want to spend time at the beach, pass by here as the umbrellas make for a very pretty sight. The boardwalk near the beach club is a wonderful spot to watch the sunset!

South of France Road Trip Day 9: Nice

For Day 9 of our south of France road trip itinerary, we’ve suggested a second day in Nice. We don’t feel one day is enough to see Nice. If you felt you got enough the day prior, you can easy add a visit to another French Riviera town on this day

South of France Road Trip Day 10: French Riviera Town of choice

There are so many amazing towns in the French Riviera to choose for the last day of your south of France itinerary. We’ve made a few suggestions, but choose whatever sounds best to you. We chose the medieval town of Eze for our final day and we absolutely loved it.

On our upcoming trip we will be visiting Grimaud, St. Tropez, Villefrance-sur-mer, Menton, and Antibes. We’ll be sure to update this post after our trip with photos and tips. 

We absolutely loved the medieval town of, Eze. It’s perched over the coast and offers a spectacular view. Walking around the cobblestone streets of Eze, we felt we had taken a step back in time and we also completely lost track of time. While it’s a small village, there’s so much beauty. It’s well worth adding to your south of France itinerary! 

Highlights include:

• The Botanical Garden (Jardin Exotique d’Eze)
• The restaurant terrace of Chateau Eza – The panoramic views are incredible. We relaxed for hours here over a glass of rose and some snacks
• Check out our full guide to Eze here

Monaco is not technically part of France, but it’s a tiny independent city state on France’s coastline. It’s honestly not my favorite town in the French Riviera, but worthwhile to add to your south of France itinerary if the glitz and glamour reputation of the city intrigues you. The entire town is only 2 square kilometers (.78 square miles).

• Princess Grace’s rose garden
• Prince’s Palace
• Museum of Antique Automobiles. 

Antibes is known for its maze like Old Town that’s enclosed by 16th century ramparts. There are so many winding cobblestone streets to get lost in and a great nightlife and dining scene. 

Cannes is a smaller town in the French Riviera, but very lively and full of great nightlife and dining. You may have heard of the Cannes Film Festival, but the town is wonderful to explore any time of year.

One of the liveliest and most popular towns in the French Riviera. This is a great town for shopping, nightlife, and dining, with charming cobblestone streets that characterize all of the the south of France. It has a reputation for glitz and glamour, but we’ve heard it also has a surprising laid back vibe as well.

Grimaud is a small village near St. Tropez that’s full of color and charm. If you visit in the spring or early summer, the entire village will be full of winding colorful flowers. It looks so incredibly pretty!

Villefranche-sur-Mer

The brightly colored coastal town of Villefranche-sur-Mer looks so incredibly charming! It seems like the perfect blend of beach and city. The beach looks beautiful and the town is full of candy colored buildings and charming cobbled streets. We are so incredibly excited to visit on our next trip!

Menton isn’t one of the most popular towns in the French Riviera, but it’s one that has really piqued my interest and been high on my list to visit. It’s known for it’s oranges and lemons which grow year around, so I have visions of wearing a lemon print dress and drinking frozen lemonade, haha! Their annual lemon festival is always a huge deal and people come from all over to attend.

The medieval streets which were founded by pirates (!!) look so cute and charming. Because it’s not one of the hyped French Riviera towns, it usually doesn’t get too crowded in Menton. If you’re traveling during busy season, that might be reason enough to add Menton to your south of France itinerary!

Alternate South of France Itinerary:

If you prefer to spend more time in the French Riviera:

Since the other south of France itinerary was more heavily based in Provence, this south of France itinerary is more heavily based in the French Rivera. 

South of France Trip Day 1:  Head to L’Isle Sur La Sorgue or wherever your home base in Provence will be. If you have time to visit a town on your arrival day, stop in Cassis and La Ciotat on your way from Nice to L’Isle Sur La Sorgue, it’s a quick detour on the route

Sleep anywhere in the Luberon, we recommend L’Isle Sur La Sorgue

South of France Trip Day 2: L’Isle Sur La Sorgue (preferably on a Sunday)

Sleep anywhere in the Luberon

South of France Trip Day 3: Oppede, Menerbes, Bonniuex

South of France Trip Day 4: Rousillon and Gordes

South of France Trip Day 5: Avignon, Apt, or Aix-en-Provence

Head to Nice, that’s where your home base in the French Riviera will be. On your way, spend the day in either Avignon, Apt, or Aix-en-Provence.

Sleep in Nice

South of France Trip Day 6: Nice 

Full day in Nice

South of France Trip Day 7: Nice + Eze 

If you prefer not to spend a second day in Nice, you can substitute this day with another French Riviera town. We feel one day is not enough to explore Nice, which is why we’ve allowed for a second day on this south of France itinerary.

Since you also explored Nice the day before, you can also spend a half day in Eze.

South of France Trip Day 8:  Grimaud and St. Tropez

While it is doable to explore both Grimaud and St. Tropez in the same day, it will be a fast paced schedule. If you have the time, you can easily spend a full day at each. We suggested starting the day in Grimaud as St. Tropez will have better dining options.

South of France Trip Day 9: Antibes

South of France Trip Day 10: Villefranche-sur-Mer and Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

You can totally spend the whole day just relaxing and exploring Villefranche-sur-Mer; there’s plenty there to keep your interest. If you prefer to maximize the day and see more, you can also add a morning visit to Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, a pink villa from the 1900s. It’s only about 10 minutes away and you won’t need more than about two hours there. 

Sleep in Nice or head home

Things to know for south of France travel:

Best time of year for a south of france itinerary:.

We are such south of France lovers that we would say, ANYTIME! Each season offers its own unique magic. If we had to choose, our first choice for a South of France road trip would be spring and our second choice would be fall. Here are some factors to consider when deciding which season is best for your south of France road trip:

If you’ve been to the south of France before, visiting again in the winter would be a delightful new experience, but I wouldn’t recommend it as your first or only experience

PROS: The lowest prices of the year for south of France holiday hotels and apartment rentals. Christmas Markets!

CONS: Some of the villages may be closed or partially closed, especially around the holidays. Some snow, but that could be also be magical and not necessarily a con. Limited outdoor dining and limited produce in the market. This is not necessarily a con, it’s just a different way to experience the south of France. It seems like a really beautiful experience, I would just say, don’t have it be your ONLY south of France travel experience.

It’s majorly on our bucket list to go in the spring, as everything we’ve heard about the south of France in the spring sounds like an absolute dream. We are planning to go in the spring this year for our anniversary and CAN’T WAIT!

PROS:  Wildflowers and poppy fields. The famed French asparagus and strawberries in the market {the locals wait all year for this!} Time to start dining outdoors again. The spring is said to be the time the region reawakens and locals are re-energized after a long winter. The villages are positively buzzing with energy and beauty. The days are starting to get longer and you get those glorious 9pm sunsets toward the end of the spring season.

CONS: None, other than a few lingering mistral winds. More on those later.

Personally, we would love to visit Provence in the summer mainly to see the lavender and sunflower fields, but we worry the relaxed pace of life we loved so much when we visited wouldn’t be the same due to the crowds and tourism

PROS:  Lavender fields, sunflower fields, long sunny days, gorgeous 9pm sunsets, lots of amazing produce available at the markets, tons of art and music festivals. The region is said to come alive in the summer. June is a great time to go because it’s not unbearably hot yet. Early June is also the least crowded portion of the summer.

CONS:  Crowded and full of tourists from around the world on their own south of France holiday, more expensive, difficult to book great accommodations and restaurants. Traffic and higher tolls on toll roads.

We went in the fall and although it was our second choice, we still felt it was a great time for south of France travel! We’d recommend it to others and we’d do it again!

PROS: Shoulder season, which means less crowds and it’s much easier to get good dining reservations and great hotels at decent prices. The days start to shorten, but they are still relatively warm and sunny. This is the time for the grape harvest!

CONS: Other than the days being slightly shorter and the blowing mistral winds, nothing! We loved fall in the south of France!

How to get to the south of France:

We drove from Paris to the south of France as we were enjoying a beautiful three week France road trip. If you aren’t planning on driving from Paris to the south of France {which takes about 7 hours}, there are a few easier ways to get there. The region is best navigated by car, so whichever option you choose, we do highly recommend renting a car for your south of France itinerary. Public transportation is limited in the south of France. It is doable, but you’ll need to stick to the larger towns.

Getting to the South of France From Paris:

By Train –  Take the train to Nice, Avignon or Marseille

By Plane –  Fly into Nice, Avignon, or Aix en Provence

Getting to the South of France From Some European Countries:

By Plane –  There is a small airport you can fly into in Avignon, a small airport in Aix en Provence, and a larger airport in Nice

By Train – You can take the Eurostar to Marseille, Nice, or Avignon

Getting to the South of France from outside of Europe:

By Plane –  There is an international airport in Nice you can fly into. If flights are expensive, it may be more cost effective to fly into Paris then book a separate flight to Nice, Avignon, or Aix en Provence. You can also take a train

Things to know when driving on your South of France road trip:

1. Expect lots of toll roads

We were surprised by how many toll roads we encountered during our south of France road trip! You can avoid them by taking country roads, but we chose the toll roads because they were faster and better maintained. During our fall trip, toll roads were anywhere from $3 to $25. In the summer, toll prices are much higher. 

You’ll see two different toll booth entrances: one with a speed listed and one without. The one with a speed listed is for those with a toll pass; they can drive right through. You most likely do not have this and will want to take the entrance without a speed listed and prepare to stop at the booth.

If you prefer to take the country roads and have the time to do so, you’ll have the advantage of passing by beautiful vineyards and smaller villages that you wouldn’t have seen on the toll roads.

2. Don’t base travel time on mileage

Travel time can often be unpredictable in the south of France. Google Maps was pretty spot on with their estimations, so we checked the travel time on there before each drive. Mileage isn’t a good indicator of travel time because there can often be traffic, especially if you go during high season. In some towns, the roads are very small and windy, which can lead to traffic delays.

We highly encourage going into your south of France trip with a mindset of relaxation and patience. Whether it’s with driving or dining, you’re bound to experience some unexpected delays or slowness, so just go with it and see it all as part of the adventure! 

3. Save Google Maps offline

You may not always have access to wifi and most of the rental cars do not include navigation. We saved all of the stops we wanted to go to on Google Maps offline so we would always have access to it.

We recommend saving every single town you are interested in, even if you don’t have time to visit them all. You never know what you may be able to fit into your south of France itinerary or where you’ll be passing by.

We highly recommend this book to choose a list of towns to add to your south of France itinerary. 

4. Beware of speeding tickets on your south of France road trip

Take the speed limit signs very seriously! Most rental cars will also tell you the speed limit inside your car. There are radars all over the highways and if you are speeding, you can expect to be mailed a ticket to your house. We received 4 (!!!) speeding tickets, even though I warned Bassam about this!

Because of the stringent speeding laws and the relaxed nature of the French, you’ll notice that the drivers in the south of France (with the exception of Nice!) are relatively relaxed. This was especially noticeable to us because drivers in Los Angeles (where we live) tend to have road rage. As soon as we crossed over to Italy, we noticed how much faster Italians drive. We also noticed the drivers in Nice to be a little more aggressive; they don’t seem to follow many driving rules there.

5. Be specific about the kind of car you rent for your south of France road trip

Most of the cars in France are stick shift. If you are comfortable driving stick, you’ll have more choices in terms of rental cars. If not, you can rent an automatic car, they are just a bit more expensive and you’ll have fewer options of cars to rent. If you need an automatic car and your south of France trip is during high season, make sure to book your car well in advance. 

Most of the cars in France are smaller than American cars. You’ll want to take this into account with how much luggage you bring along with you. Some rental companies will have larger cars available, but we don’t recommend going too large because you’ll have a difficult time finding parking. In addition, the smaller cars are easier to navigate on windy cliff roads in the French Riviera. 

6. Fill up with Diesal

Almost all of the cars in France take Diesal gas. You’ll see this at the gas station listed as either “Diesal” or “gazole”, they mean the same thing.

7. Driving requirements

In order to drive during your south of France vacation you’ll need:

• A drivers license-  If you are staying in France for less than 90 days, you can drive with a valid US or EU drivers license. We aren’t sure about other countries. It’s recommended for Americans to obtain an International Driving Permit, from the American Automobile Association. It provides a translation of your license. We didn’t get one for our south of France road trip and our rental car company said it was fine
• A Passport-  Be sure to have it on you
• Proof of insurance and vehicle registration-  Proof of insurance is necessary. Most credit card companies offer car insurance, so check with them. If not, you can get it from your car rental company. You’ll also need vehicle registration ( carte grise ) with you when you drive.
• Be over the age of 18-  The legal driving age in France

Things to know for your south of France vacation:

1. Understand French etiquette

Understanding and following French etiquette is very important for your South of France vacation. Etiquette is very important to the French, especially in this region. Following some basic etiquette will help you get the best treatment, make friends, and overall enjoy your time as much as possible. The French can often get a bad rap for not being friendly, but we’ve found it’s all in the way you approach them. Following some etiquette and engaging in pleasantries helped us to have a really amazing experience.

Speak in French as much as you can.  We recommend learning a few basic phrases and/or saving them on Google Translate. We noticed the French really appreciated us trying, even if we didn’t get it quite right. If you need to speak in English, first ask IN FRENCH if the person speaks English, before jumping straight into speaking in English

ALWAYS greet shopkeepers when you walk in.  Pleasantries are so important in France and especially in the south. Greeting shopkeepers is a very important rule in France. Not doing so is the equivalent of going into someone’s home and sitting on their couch without greeting them first. Say “bonjour madame or monsieur” (hello ms or sir) when entering and “au revior, merci” (goodbye, thank you) when leaving. Greetings are a very important part of French culture. It signfiies respect and that you are well mannered and going to have a pleasant encounter with the person.

Be cognizant of your speaking volume.  The French tend to speak quieter than Americans do. If you’re an American visiting, you may want to be aware of your speaking volume and be sure it’s not much louder than those around you

It’s socially acceptable to stare at others. People watching is huge in France! You don’t have anything in your teeth if you see people staring at you, so don’t worry! Feel free to stare right back!

Know some basic dining etiquette:

•  Bread goes directly on the table, not on your dinner plate. Some restaurants will offer bread plates if they experience a high volume of tourists, but it’s not customary
• Salad leaves are folded with a fork and knife, never cut
• Always place your napkin on your lap as soon as you’re seated
• Avoid resting your elbows on the table
• Avoid requesting substitution or changes to the way a dish is prepared. It’s considered rude to the chef and they generally will not accommodate you 
• You will get a strange look if you attempt to share your meal with your dining partner and if you don’t finish your meal. At a very nice restaurant, this is considered rude to the chef. This doesn’t mean you need to over eat to be polite! We just want you to be aware so you know why you’re getting a strange look

Being left alone is GOOD service. The waiter typically will not bother you during your meal so that you can enjoy it. They won’t often check on you, will not bring you the check, and will give you time between courses to “rest”. If you need something from the waiter or want the check, flag them down. Try your best not to rush the waiter or chef and never ask for them to bring your food quickly. They will not accommodate your timing. Slow dining is one of the most magical things about the south of France. Make time for dining in your south of France itinerary. Slow down. Savor it. Some of our best memories from our south of France road trip were our meals

Eat during mealtimes. Eating on the street is generally frowned upon, so do your best to sit down to a meal, snack, or beverage. The French don’t really snack between meals, they just have their 3 meals a day and perhaps a midday break for coffee or pre dinner apero (drink and small bite like nuts or olives). In the smaller villages, restaurants will be closed in between mealtimes. You’ll find more flexibility in larger towns, but it’ll mainly be cafes that are open in between mealtimes

The French feel very strongly about their opinions and recommendations.  If they are an expert in the matter, try to take them seriously. They will tell you their opinions in a very straight forward manner and expect to be trusted. If they tell you something isn’t good or doesn’t match, listen! For example, when we visited a fromagerie {cheese shop}, the shopkeeper insisted we couldn’t buy a particular jam because it didn’t match the cheese we were buying. Seeing how agitated he was, we asked for his recommendation, and he instantly became the nicest, most helpful person. This might be outside of your comfort zone, but give it a try. You’ll be surprised at what you might learn and how right they might be!

2. Most shops are closed on Sundays

Most small shops, businesses, and pharmacies are closed on Sunday, ESPECIALLY in the smaller towns. There are also less restaurants open on Sundays. You’ll want to plan ahead by doing your shopping ahead of time and making plans for mealtimes.

3. Getting around within each town

You will most likely not need your car within each town. Most of the towns and villages on your south of France itinerary are very walking friendly. You’ll be able to park your car when you arrive and then just walk, bike, or even Uber in some of the towns. You will need a car to get from town to town. Some towns are accessible by bus, but you’ll be limited to the larger towns.

4. Don’t take no for an answer

One of the most frustrating things we learned about French culture during our south of France road trip is not to take no for an answer. The immediate response you may get to inquiries is often, “no” or “not possible” and it’s almost always possible. Just be polite but firm, don’t back down, and you may get a different response. You’ll also get the best service if you find something to bond over with the person, so make some small talk first. Pleasantries are a very big part of French culture.

5. Expect to slow down

Life in the south of France, especially in Provence, is slow. It’s just the beauty of region. Don’t expect to go and be on a tight schedule. Take the time to slow down. Savor the sights, the tastes, the sounds. Wander. Explore whatever catches your interest. This is where the magic of the south of France lies. In these small little moments, when you take the time to explore and immerse yourself in the experience. The south of France truly is a delight for all senses. Take the time to enjoy it all.

We got a lesson in this on our very first night. We went into a cheese shop right at closing time and were prepared to rush as to “be polite” and not keep the shopkeeper past closing. She refused to let us rush and has us try all the cheeses and tell her what we thought of them before she would let us choose. A line built up behind us and she still took her time with us.

We noticed this across the board in the shops we visited. Shopkeepers will give you their undivided attention, regardless of what the line behind you is like. The people waiting in line are very patient, because they know that when it’s their turn, the shopkeeper will also be spending a lot of time with them.

The only people we saw get frustrated by this were non French tourists. We had several experiences where non French tourists were frustrated by having to wait and loudly huffed and puffed before stomping off. Each time it happened we apologized to the shop keeper and each time they told us not to worry about it, if those people didn’t want to wait then it’s too bad for them.

Another lesson to learn here: the customer is not always right in France. People will give you whatever they feel is the best service to them and they don’t really care what you think about it. They are more committed to being themselves and doing what they feel is right than customer satisfaction. I know that doesn’t really sound good, but we actually found it to be very refreshing.

6. The Mistral winds are a real thing

We heard so much about the Mistral winds before we went but we were still surprised by how truly strong they were. It was windy for the entire duration of our south of France road trip, but one day they were especially forceful and we had a difficult time being outside. We felt like we could actually be lifted away! The Mistral winds are especially strong in the winter and spring, although we felt them in the fall.

You’ll want to pay attention to wind speed when planning your outfit for the day. Even if the temperature is mild, high wind speeds can make it feel much closer. You’ll want to bring a few extra layers for when the winds pick up. 

7. Try to base your south of France itinerary around market days

Each town in the south of France has a specific market day or two each week. We highly recommend planning your south of France itinerary in a way where you see at least two markets. They are all very different and wonderful in their own special way. We’ve made a note in the itinerary of which markets you should prioritize seeing. 

One of our absolute favorite memories from our south of France road trip was visiting the local markets, buying all kinds of fresh produce, and coming back to our rental apartment to cook our own French meal. The produce in France is seasonal and so incredibly delicious. You’ve never tried a tomato until you try an in season tomato in Provence. Trust me on this. After coming back home, we missed this routine so much that we started going to our local farmers market weekly. (Further Reading: Life Lessons Learned After Traveling in France )

Books to read before your south of France trip

My Twenty-Five Years in Provence // Peter Mayle

Peter Mayle is the king of Provence memoirs. If you haven’t read any of his books, they are a must!

Markets of Provence: Food, Antiques, Crafts, and More // Marjorie Williams

A gorgeous pocket size guide to all the best markets in Provence. Filled with beautiful illustrations, maps, and tips to shopping the markets during your south of France road trip

The Most Beautiful Villages of France: The Official Guide // Les Plus Beaux Villages De France Assoc.

The offical guide book to all the most beautiful villages in France. While the photography is sometimes not the greatest, it’s an extremely helpful book and will help you add so many amazing villages to your list

Picnic in Provence // Elizabeth Bard

This book describes my dreams. The author writes about her life as she falls in love in Paris and her little family moves to Provence and opens an ice cream shop. Ever since visiting Provence and reading the book, I don’t stop talking about one day moving to Provence. Although she’s realistic about the ups and downs, it all sounds just magical!

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Okay, whew! We know that was a lot of information. Feel free to ask us if you have any further questions. We hope this south of France itinerary helps you plan an epic south of France vacation! It’s one of our favorite places in the world and we hope you will enjoy it as much as we did!

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April 5, 2019 at 10:00 pm

This guide is absolutely superb. Such detailed and comprehensive guide, it feels I am almost travelling along. Stunning pictures.

April 5, 2019 at 10:01 pm

I’m so glad you liked it! It was one of our favorite trips!

April 6, 2019 at 12:28 am

What beautiful photos! Whilst I’ve spent a lot of time in the south-west of France, I’ve never explored Provence and your guide reminds how much I really ought to. Travelling by road and exploring small towns is just the most wonderful thing to do in France and I wholeheartedly agree that visiting on market day makes a place all the more special. Thank you for some great ideas – Gordes and Rousillion have been calling to me for a while, and now even more so!

April 6, 2019 at 12:54 pm

I’m so glad you enjoyed the post! I’m sure you will absolutely love Gordes and Roussillon! I really can’t imagine anyone not, they are such magical villages! I’d love to know what your favorites are in the south-west! We are always looking for new towns to visit.

April 6, 2019 at 4:38 am

Oh my gosh your photos are killing me!!!! We’re starting to look at a semester in Europe so we can take our time and explore a lot of new places- but this makes me want to go right this very second!!! We’ll surely be scheduling enough time for this part of France!!

April 6, 2019 at 12:52 pm

Writing this post actually killed me, haha. I want to be back there so badly! That’s amazing that you’re going to spend a semester in Europe! I hope you have an amazing time and get to spend a lot of time in the south of France!

April 6, 2019 at 6:51 am

As someone who’s done a South of France roadtrip during the winter, I’d absolutely discourage anyone from doing it at the time of the year. Everything was closed and empty and dead. Sure, it was cheaper, but we’d rather be able to eat French food at a restaurant and look at fields that aren’t full of dead lavender bushes and meet people instead of cats 😛 It was so disappointing, but we’re dying to go again in another season because it would be SO beautiful at any other time of the year!

Ah that’s such a bummer! I never recommend people go to Paris or the south of France in the winter ONLY. Paris especially has a lot of awesome pros to visiting in the winter, but not for your first time and only time. From what I’ve heard of the south of France it seems relatively similar? Did you go around the time that you could at least visit Christmas markets? Definitely go back another time! We went very late in the fall season and while things were starting to slow down and close, it was still lovely! Going in the spring this year!

April 6, 2019 at 7:26 am

Thank you for this great guide! All your pictures are STUNNING! I loved your tips about the French language too! Very helpful! I think around 10 days is perfect, and I love all the villages you were able to plan out to see. What was your favorite restaurant?

April 6, 2019 at 12:49 pm

So glad you liked the post! We had the BEST time! That’s so hard to choose. I think it’s a tie between Les Bories in Gordes and Le Vivier in L’Isle Sur la Sorgue!

April 11, 2019 at 2:25 am

Love a good pros and cons list 😍 This guide is so comprehensive. My friends and I did a weekend trip to Marseilles last summer and I wish we had had more time to do more! This makes me want to go back!

April 13, 2019 at 10:37 am

I’m so glad you liked it! I want to go back so badly too! There’s so much to do and see!

April 13, 2019 at 10:45 am

Such a lovely and detailed post!

Xoxo, Laura // afinnontheloose.com

April 13, 2019 at 10:53 am

I’m so glad you liked it! I hope it helps you plan your trip!

April 14, 2019 at 12:46 pm

What dreamy photos! I love the South of France and would include a visit to Renoir’s home in Cagnes-sur-mer as a must do!

April 16, 2019 at 6:10 pm

Oohh will add that to our list!

May 13, 2019 at 5:09 am

May 19, 2019 at 9:35 pm

So glad you liked the post! Definitely Le Vivier and Les Bories. Going back to both when we visit Provence again next week! Also, we are in Italy right now, but Bella Vita is still the best pasta we’ve ever had!

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The South of France Road Trip Itinerary You Need (10 Days)

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: March 1, 2023

Categories Europe , France

Planning the perfect South of France road trip? Look no further. This ultra-detailed 10 days in South of France itinerary will show you the best of the French Riviera, Provence, and Camargue.

With its rustic countryside, wine regions, and scenic beaches, it’s hard not to fall in love with the South of France. It’s no surprise why it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world! This area of France in fact requires little to no introduction… but let’s go through what you’ll get to see in these 10 days in South of France.

Table of Contents

Camargue, Provence, and French Riviera Itinerary: an introduction

The South of France is one of the most popular destinations in Europe, and it encompasses the hinterland and the French Mediterranean coastline. It’s also close to the borders of Italy and Spain, which is the perfect excuse to explore more if you’re up to cross-country road trips.

READ ALSO : 9 Epic Road Trips in France for Your Bucket List

This area is divided into two main regions: Provence-Alpes-Cote d’ Azur and Languedoc Rousillon . Summer is, as you can imagine, the busiest time of the year within the coastal region. But aside from the beaches, the variety of landscapes and climates will give you something new to look forward to even if it’s not your first visit.

The French Riviera makes up only a small portion of the Southern France region . This is a thin coastal strip that is quite packed in the summer, but since the French Riviera is located at the bottom of a rocky coastline, you can still find some quiet and secluded spots along the beach.

Then you’ve got the mountainous hinterland . This is another picturesque part of the region which consists of small villages and towns in Provence . There are plenty of houses perched on a hillside or located right next to a trickling river. They are like fairytale villages, no doubt.

If you want to stay away from the burning heat and the crowds, it’s best to head inland . The hills of Provence will provide you with the perfect quiet escape. On top of that, Provence is also known for its history . You can head there to see the famous bridge of Avignon, or the Roman remains in Arles.

The western region of South France features tons of sandy beaches. This region is also less crowded than the French Riviera (even in the summer), so it’s perfect for those who want to experience the best beaches in the South of France minus the crowds .

Finally, the Languedoc area of South France is where you will find the Pyrenees region. This area is shared by France and Spain. If you’re into hiking and active holidays, there are quite a few hiking trails available in the French Pyrenees.

To plan your perfect holiday to the South of France, follow this 10-day itinerary so you can see the best of what this region has to offer. Without a doubt, this is one of the best road trips in Europe you can take!

Day 1 | Get Lost in Nice

There is more to Nice than the world-famous shoreline . Nice is a city filled with history, culture, and art – enough to keep you occupied for days. But if you only have a day to spend in Nice, there are a few notable attractions that are a must-see – I’ll get to those.

But first, you need to plan how to get to Nice . Regardless of where you are in France, it’s easy to get to Nice because the city is connected to various parts of France via the SNCF train network . There is also a high-speed train known as TGV train that comes from Paris, but I’d recommend you to book ahead of time, especially if you’re traveling during the summer.

➤ I usually use Omio (formerly GoEuro) to book train and bus tickets when traveling through Europe. This is a reliable company, and I’ve found that it usually has the best deals for transportation in Europe. ➥ BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKET HERE

Otherwise, if you’re flying in, the closest international airport from Nice is within 8 kilometers . You can either take the public bus from the airport or book in advance a private transfer .

The Old Town is a good place to start exploring Nice, as this neighborhood is a favorite by locals and tourists alike . While there are a few tourist traps, you can also experience farmer markets, churches, local shops, bars, and authentic French restaurants.

Another free attraction in Nice is the Place Massena . This is the main square in Nice and is centrally located. Place Massena features a seafront, shopping street, and the lovely Massena gardens. Be enthralled by the hypnotic tile work in the square.

If you are after gorgeous views, head to Castle Hill . Even though the majority of the castle has crumbled, it is worth walking up to reach the peak of this hill. You will be rewarded with sweeping views of Nice along with the Baie de Anges.

➤ Another great idea is to take a one-hour sightseeing cruise to the bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer . From the boat you’ll be able to see the legendary Promenade des Anglais from the Baie des Anges and go wow at the magnificent villas of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Another popular way to visit Nice when you have limited time is to join a guided tour of Nice by Segway. You’ll have tons of fun while the guide will point you to all the highlights. You can choose between a 1-hour tour and a 2-hour grand tour . Or again, if Segway isn’t your thing, what about a panoramic 2-hour tour by e-bike ?

If you have more time, you can also check out the St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral and the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art .

➤ When you are ready to go on a nightcap, there are plenty of accommodation options, some of which are an attraction on their own. For luxury travelers, Hotel Negresco and Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée are good options. There are also many boutique hotels in Nice such as La Malmaison Nice and Ho tel Suisse .

BEST LUXURY HOTEL IN NICE : Hotel Negresco BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN NICE : La Malmaison Nice Boutique Hotel BEST BUDGET HOTEL IN NICE : Hotel Parisien

But if you’re traveling with the family or in a group of friends, you can consider splashing out and renting a private villa . You could even rent one for a week in Cote d’Azur not far from Nice and organize day trips from here (most of the destinations here can be done as day trips rather than a whole itinerary).

Day 2 | An Escapade to Monte Carlo + Beautiful Villages and Sunsets

On your second day of this road trip you’ll get to visit Monaco , Eze , and more . At night, you’ll get back to Nice, so don’t check out yet!

This day can be done in two ways, depending on your preference. You can either take your car and drive to all these places if you’ve rented a car yet, or you can join a tour that’ll show you everything that I mention down here. I’ve researched tours to give you the best options and here they are.

➤ The French Riviera in One Day full-day tour is the most complete (and better priced) tour I could find. You’ll get to visit Eze, Monaco, Antibes, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Cannes, and Saint Jean Cap Ferrat. All in one day. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ Otherwise, you can take a half-day tour so you’ll have more time to relax and explore Nice. On this 5-hour tour you’ll visit Eze, a medieval village, the marvelous principality of Monaco, and the circuit of Formula 1. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

9 AM: Visit the Richest Country in the World

On your second day of exploring South of France, make Monaco your first destination.

➤ It takes approximately 30-40 minutes to get to Monaco from Nice via Highway A8 and D6007, and there’s no border control between France and Monaco .

➤ Another fun way to reach Monaco is by ferry . The cruise takes about one hour and you can take in the panoramic views of this scenic region. You can book round-trip ferry tickets to have the return covered. ➥ BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE

➤ One last option is to join a tour from Nice. This guided Half-Day Tour of Monaco includes transportation and will show you the Monte Carlo Casino, the Prince Palace, and more. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

The city of Montecarlo is walkable so it’s a good idea to explore it on foot where you might stumble upon hidden gems along the way. Since Monaco is quite hilly, another good idea is to ride the hop-on-hop-off buses in the city.  In any case, getting around is easy since Monaco is quite small.

Make ‘The Rock’ your first stop in Monaco, the oldest section of Monaco. Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony at the Prince Palace . If you want to take a look at the apartments inside the palace, you can also do so for the price of 8 Euros.

Another reason to visit ‘The Rock’ is that you can take magnificent shots of the port with the luxurious yachts – that iconic view of Monaco.

Make your next stop The Temple of the Sea, better known as The Oceanographic Museum . Located on a rocky cliff, this museum is worth visiting for what is displayed in it (over 2000 species!), and for the views of the Mediterranean Sea from the cliff. Kids and adults alike will love it. ➥ BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE

Lastly… no visit to Monaco is complete without going to the casino . It’s not every day that you get a chance to marvel at fancy cars and expensive things. Whether or not you are into gambling, or you simply want to marvel at the grandeur of the casino, it is a must-try experience .

➤ Want to feel like a millionaire for half a day? Why not drive a Ferrari or a Lamborghini on the panoramic roads of the French Riviera?

3 PM: The Medieval Village of Eze

From Monaco, if you are driving you can get on the road again and head towards Eze . It will only take roughly 15 minutes to drive so you can experience and explore the most stunning hilltop village in the French Riviera – Eze. This charming medieval village is another great stop on this day trip from Nice, and it’s located atop a cliff that is right between Nice and Monaco . 

Eze can also be reached via the popular Nietzsche Trail. This village is like a labyrinth – you will find yourself lost amidst cobbled streets, narrow alleyways, art shops, and galleries. This village is over 1,500 years old and walking around it, you can feel and see every bit of that history.

For a small hilltop village, there are surprisingly many things you can see. The Exotic Botanic Garden is one of them. This sculpture park and garden is home to a rich variety of cacti, succulents, and rare vegetation you can only find here. The rich and verdant green environment is beautifully suspended 400 meters above sea level!

Once you are done exploring the gardens, take the time to walk around the old village. You will be seduced by the beauty of Eze, with its ancient fountains, old stone houses, and amazing archways.

If you are tired of exploring, how about you grab something to drink at Chateau de la Chevre d’Or ? While the coffee and drinks are, I’ll be honest, pretty expensive, the views of the 3,000-foot cliff will make every euro spent worth it.

Sitting proudly at the heart of this charming village is the Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption Church . You will easily identify this church with its yellow and azure paint. Showcasing the colors of the French Riviera, it would be hard to miss this landmark.

5 PM: Beach Bums + Sunset Views at Saint Jean Cap Ferrat

Got more time left in your day? It is time to hit the road again and drive towards Saint Jean Cap Ferrat .

Saint Jean Cap Ferrat is not as known as other destinations in the French Riviera so it’s less crowded, but it still comes with the South of France price tag – aka expensive! But apart from the holiday yachts and luxurious resorts, there are plenty of free things to do and cheap attractions to check out on your day trip.

Paloma Beach is one of the must-see destinations in Saint Jean Cap Ferrat. This is more of a rocky beach but for around 40 euros, you can get a beachside seat to lounge in for the day while enjoying the sunset views of the Mediterranean Sea. If you want a break from the beach, you can walk along the cliff ledge and marvel at the seaside villas.

You can also live it up in South of France by renting a boat . There are plenty of boat operators that will give you a chance to cruise for several hours and enjoy a few stops such as the island of Sainte Marguerite.

After a day of exploring the sights and attractions at Monaco, Eze, or Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, you can head back to Nice to prepare for another day.

Day 3 | Charming Villages & Beautiful Beaches

On day 3 of this South France itinerary, you’ll get to see the charming towns of Saint Paul de Vence and Grasse , make your own perfume if you want to, and relax at the beach. The next day will be all about the glitzy towns of Cannes and Antibes.

Two days will give you enough time to explore all this place at a relaxed pace. However, if you’re short on time, you could potentially combine days 3 and 4 by joining a tour.

9 AM: Discover the charm of Saint Paul de Vence

On the third day of exploring the South France region, you can start by driving half an hour to Saint Paul de Vence , a village bigger than Eze.

The moment you enter the gates to get to the village, it feels like you are warping into a different world . Beautiful is an understatement. The narrow cobbled streets, the floral-decorated buildings, and the beautiful views – these are the elements that you expect to find in a charming French town, aren’t they?

I’d say spending 3 hours would be enough to see and experience what this town could offer.

During your exploration, don’t forget to drop by some of the local restaurants like Le Tilleul and La Fromagerie . It would be a perfect choice if you want to taste local cuisines, cheeses, and wines. And of course, you cannot afford to miss the famous gelato at Dolce Italia !

12 PM: Smell the Parfumes of Grasse

After strolling around Saint Paul de Vence, it is time to make your way to Grasse . It’s another short trip to get there (approximately 35 minutes). Grasse is another small town (with about 50,000 residents) located in the inland portion of the Mediterranean .

Grasse made a name for itself in the perfume industry – in fact, it’s known as the perfume capital of the world! There are many flower fields in this town, which is why it’s the perfect spot for perfume factories to base in.

If you want to explore this side of the town’s history, be sure to check out Fragonard Perfume Factory , located at the edge of the Old Town in Grasse. There is a museum with guided tours on-site, and a gift shop where you can buy their locally made perfumes.

Aside from the perfume factory, there are plenty of other attractions to check out as you explore Grasse. Some of the best ones include the 13th century Notre Dame Du Puy Cathedral , International Perfume Museum , and the Museum of Provencal Clothing and Jewelry . If you are hungry from all that sightseeing, you can go to the Old Town . There is a high concentration of pizza parlors you can check out to satisfy your cravings. 

4 PM: Get Tanned at La Garoupe Beach

From Grasse, you can head to your final stop for the day – La Garoupe Beach . It is another 30-minute drive to get there. 

Plage de la Garoupe is a collection of beaches in Antibes at the eastern portion of the peninsula. If you arrive in the afternoon, you will be able to catch enough of the famed Mediterranean rays as you lounge in any of the private or public yet secluded beaches in town. Spend a little while longer to witness the gorgeous Mediterranean sunset . 

As night comes, it’s time to head to Antibes where you’ll spend the night.

BEST LUXURY HOTEL IN ANTIBES : Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN ANTIBES : Villa Fabulite BEST HOSTEL IN ANTIBES : Glamorgan

Day 4 | Glitzy Towns and Adorable Islands

9 am: go for a stroll through the cobblestone streets of antibes.

With one morning to spend in Antibes, it’s better to get up bright and early! This town is easy to be explored on foot. Make the waterfront your first destination where you can find mega yachts anchored along the dock. When you are done relishing the waterfront views , you can head to the Old Town to check out the old charm of Antibes with its cobblestone streets.

Another area that is perfect for a leisurely walk is the Provencal Market , which is considered as one of the top markets in the South of France, with traditional fruits and vegetables on display.

If you have a taste for culture, use this opportunity to drop by the Picasso Museum . It’s located in the seaside Chateau Grimaldi and is known as the first museum in the world to be dedicated to Picasso .

When you are done exploring Antibes, head over to Cannes – another super famous resort town in the French Riviera. The town is best known for the Cannes International Film Festival. But there is more to Cannes than this festival! You can drive to Cannes from Antibes in less than half an hour. 

12 PM: Take a Ferry to Ile Saint-Marguerite

When you get to Cannes, head straight for the Cannes Port . Just like Antibes, the harbor and port area boasts of a picturesque scene. If you have some time to spare, get off the coast towards Saint-Marguerite . There are boats that run very often during the summer and it will only take 15 minutes to get there.

➤ You should get a round-trip ferry ticket from Cannes to Ste. Marguerite Island. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Once you reach the island of Saint-Marguerite, you can explore the old fortress that houses the prison from the movie Man in the Iron Mask ( Fort Royal ).

If you are a fan of the movie, this gives you added incentive to travel to the island . There is also a village on the island filled with flower-decorated houses that are as charming as they are historical. If you’re hungry, there is a restaurant on the island where the great food is matched with an equally stunning view of the sea.

While you might have already visited the Picasso Museum in Antibes, there is another notable museum to visit on the island: Musee de la Mer. The Maritime Museum , as it is more commonly known, is located within the grounds of Fort Royal . This is a marine archaeological museum that showcases goods that were salvaged from various shipwrecks in the region. You can also stop by the very same cell wherein the Main in the Iron Mask was held in.

4 PM: Discover Glitzy Cannes

If you ride the jetty back to the main island of Cannes, you will be dropped off at Port Cannes. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants in the area to check out if you are in need of refreshments.

From there, you can walk to the Le Suquet , which is known as the old quarter of Cannes . This quarter is over 400 years old and is home to the original fishing village. Be enthralled by the old-time charm with its narrow alleyways, quaint shops, and cobbled lanes. It has nothing to do with that image of the yachts that everyone has when they think about Cannes.

➤ Another cool thing to do in Cannes, if you want to spend an extra day here and relax, is going on a Half-Day Catamaran Cruise in the Bay of Cannes . You’ll take in the breathtaking views of the glamorous French Riviera + there’ll be time for snorkeling and swimming. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ You can even upgrade to a Cruise with Lunch if you are feeling fancy! ➥ BOOK IT HERE

If you are looking for a more hip and modern atmosphere, go to Boulevard de la Croisette . This area is a few meters walk from the Palais des Festivals . You can take a break at one of the coffee shops and go people-watching.

The Bay of Cannes is the perfect spot in Cannes to watch the day come to an end. Unlike most of the beaches in Nice, this one offers a fine, sandy beach.

You can spend your night in Cannes as there is a row of luxurious and boutique hotels along Boulevard de la Croisette. If you look around, you can also find budget-friendly hostels, if you want to keep your budget tight.

BEST LUXURY HOTEL IN CANNES: Hotel Martinez – in the Unbound Collection by Hyatt BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN CANNES : Hotel Verlaine

Day 5 | The Glamour of the French Riviera at Its Best

For another day in the South of France, get ready for another day trip to two of the must-see destinations in the French Riviera: Saint Tropez and Hyeres . From Cannes, you can drive to Saint Tropez via A8 highway for an hour and a half.

9 AM: Pastel Buildings & Yachts in Saint Tropez

St. Tropez is a name that evokes images of celebrities , luxurious resorts , and extravagant yachts . While this town is now known for its affiliation with celebrities and luxury, it was once a humble fishing village .

It was when the town was featured as a location for the 1955 film “Et Dieu Crea la Femme” that the town became popular as a seaside resort. The sunny weather and mild Mediterranean waters helped to contribute to its popularity.

When in St. Tropez, don’t forget to visit Vieux Port – the heart of St. Tropez. This is the location of the old fishing village , which is now transformed into an idyllic port with fishing boats and yachts in the harbor. Along the harbor are pastel-colored houses and buildings along with some lively cafes. You can also find many local artists selling their work depicting the picturesque harbor by the water’s edge.

One café that is highly recommended near the port and harbor is Café Senequeir . It is easy to spot with its red façade and awnings. With its strategic location, it is a great spot to freshen up with a drink.

Aside from the idyllic seafront, make sure you head to the Old Town (also known as La Ponche) to do more exploration. Many consider it the most picturesque area in Saint Tropez . A portion of the Old Town has been dedicated as a pedestrian zone so it is easy to walk around and explore its narrow alleyways and cobblestone streets.

You will find restaurants, boutiques, and other kinds of shops. Make the Rue de la Citadelle as your start-off point until you find the 18 th -century Eglise de Notre-Dame de l’Assumption . This church rises above the St. Tropez skyline with its Baroque bell tower.

Another favorite for tourists in St. Tropez is the Musee de l’Annonciade . The building for the art museum was once the Chapel of the Annunciation. This museum is home to a wide range of impressionistic paintings from artists such as Pierre Bonnard, Paul Signac, Henri Matisse, and Georges Braque, among others.

If you want to get a glimpse of the historical and military past of the town, head over to the citadel . This citadel is located atop the village of St. Tropez since it was built in the 1600s. The ship’s cannon is the most notable feature of the citadel along with the hexagonal fortress, which has now been turned into the Museum of Maritime History .

After the cultural and historical explorations, check out one of the many sandy beaches in St. Tropez. Among the free and public beaches are Plage de Bouillabaisse and Plage des Canoubiers . These beaches are popular with locals and tourists. With the sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, restaurants, and snack bars in the area, there is no better place to relax by the beach.

2 PM: An Afternoon for Foodies in Hyeres

If you are done exploring St. Tropez, you can head to what is referred to by many as the original French Riviera – Hyeres . It is approximately an hour’s drive away from St. Tropez, but it is worth that time spent driving as you will unravel a hidden gem . From the royalties to the artistic folks, it is a favorite place to hide away for the rich and famous during winter.

Start your journey of exploring Hyeres at the Old Town , or known locally as Vieille Ville . Bear witness to the architectural grandeur of the Knights Templar Tower at the Old Town. You can also marvel your way around the three concentric city walls.

As you weave your way through the narrow streets and alleys of the Old Town, don’t forget to drop by the delis, wine bars, and bakeries that are sprinkled at every corner. And speaking of wine bars, with 17 wineries in Hyeres , it would be futile to attempt to leave Hyeres without sampling a taste of the local wine.

If you have more time, head to the bustling farmers market at the Ave Gambetta . This is your best chance to immerse into the local way of life by shopping seasonal produce from the region.

You can then take whatever you could find at the farmers market for a picnic at the Olbius Riquier Park . This park boasts 7 hectares of landscaped gardens, which is the most picturesque picnic setting you will ever find in France.

When evening comes in Hyeres, you can head beachside to find an array of restaurants serving local fares and international cuisines. There are also several happening bars to check out if you want to party the night away.

You can spend the night in Hyeres as there are several beach-side accommodations. But for an atmospheric stay, head to the Old Town to find many awe-inspiring hotels and villas to stay in for the night.

The secret’s out of the bag – Hyeres is a noteworthy destination if you are looking for the best day trips in South of France.

Day 6 | The Provence You’ve Always Dreamt of

Waking up in Hyeres is a great way to live it up in South of France. But your 10-day itinerary is not done yet. On day 6, you must drive your way for nearly two hours from Hyeres to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie via A57 highway. This is a popular itinerary that you can follow so you can see the highlights of this region.

9 AM: Visit the Enchanting Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Listed as one of the “ most beautiful villages” in France , there is so much to expect when you visit Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. This charming village is located on a narrow notch at the foot of rocky , limestone cliffs . It has all of the elements of a Provencal village – narrow alleys, cobbled streets, elaborate fountains, little squares, faience workshops, and pretty houses.

The Lombard Romanesque bell tower is an imposing figure on this small yet picturesque village. But apart from all of these, the town is also best known for its ceramic production. You can also visit a museum with a massive collection of fine glazed earthenware that dates back to the 17 th century.

11 AM: Take Pictures of the Instagram-Worthy Lavender Fields in Valensole

The lavender fields in Valensole are another notable stop along this route . These lavender fields have been featured in many Instagram shots and their popularity is undeniable.

When you are done taking photos of the lavender fields, you can head out to one of many lavender producers in the region . Use this opportunity to learn about how the lavenders are processed and used in the manufacture of essential oils and other products.

To experience the height of the beauty of the lavender fields, time your visit when it is in full bloom. You can visit the lavender fields of Provence around the end of June to mid-August . The peak of the blooming season is in July. This is how you can guarantee that you will capture the purple, summery best of the iconic lavender fields.

1 PM: Sail Through the Gorges du Verdon

Your day trip in the region will end with a visit to the largest river canyon in France – Gorges du Verdon (or Verdon Canyon) . Not only is this the biggest canyon, but it is also one of the most beautiful in Europe .

The clear, turquoise water that flows through the canyon looks stunningly beautiful from above the cliffs that look down on the gorge. These cliffs can go as high as 700 meters (nearly double the height of the Eiffel Tower!). It really reminds me of Sumidero Canyon in Chiapas, Mexico .

If you come here, you can find many boat rental outlets on-site to give you the opportunity to tour various parts of the gorge. There is no better way to spend a lovely afternoon in the French countryside than this!

Once your day trip is over, head to Aix en Provence where you will be spending the night. This is a classically Provencal town that is slow-paced and oh so charming. 

Day 7 | Another Incredible Day in Provence

8 am: walk around aix en provence.

Realize your South of France dreams when you spend the night at Aix en Provence . This charming town is the best jump-off point for exploring more of the nearby towns and attractions. If you choose to spend more time exploring Aix en Provence, there are a few notable sites that you cannot afford to miss.

Start your day in Aix en Provence by exploring the historic center . The town is highly walkable so you can explore on your own, even without a guide. You can also visit the clay figures workshops that are found in the town, or check out the Granet Museum in the city center.

Another famous attraction within the city center is the Pavillon Vendome , which is a historic pavilion surrounded by a formal French garden.

As an alternative, this is also a great place to be based to go on a few day trips from Aix en Provence .

11 AM: Head to the Perched Village of Gordes

When you are finished touring some of the highlights in Aix en Provence, you can make your way to Gordes village . It will take about an hour’s drive to get to Gordes from Aix en Provence when you take the A7 Highway.

Once you reach Gordes, you will be in awe of the beauty of the village . From narrow and winding streets to pastel homes, it is a picture-perfect village. The village itself is located at the foot of a castle, and is easy to get around in if you drive your own car.

The Gordes Market is one of the best places to visit, especially if you are into shopping. There are markets held every Tuesday from 8 AM to 1 PM. The market features a wide range of local produce and goods, such as cheeses, herbs and spices, olives, foie gras, arts and handicrafts, and more.

When you get tired from shopping, there are plenty of restaurants and tiny cafes worth checking out for an authentic French meal. Whether you are looking for a quick bite or a gourmet meal, there is something to suit your taste.

When you are in Gordes, don’t forget to visit the oldest castle in France – Chateau de Gordes . It only costs 7 Euros to be allowed entry into the castle. Take note that this castle is closed on Sundays. Plan your visit accordingly.

2.30 PM: Time For the Picture-Perfect Lavender Fields at Senanque Abbey

Once you are done exploring the highlights of Gordes, you can head to the Senanque Abbey .

This is yet another location to visit in Provence if you want to see the lavender fields. While there are many lavender fields in the South of France, this one is unique as it is the only one located next to a monastery .

The Senanque Abbey is an attraction in itself with its stone walls and church bells. The lavender fields provide a nice sense of tranquility for such a solemn community for the Cistercian monks. This abbey was founded in the year 1148 .

The lavender fields of Provence are a very touristy thing to do in South of France that is still highly recommended. Another case in point is Les Beaux de Provence.

4 PM: Is Les Beaux de Provence the Most Beautiful Village in France?

Many would argue that it is the most beautiful village in France , which is saying a lot given the concentration of picturesque villages in the region.

The Les Carrieres de Lumieres is one of the most unique attractions you will find in Les Beaux de Provence. It is a collection of massive digital images of popular paintings. These digital images are projected onto a wall, which forms an impressive visual spectacle. Each year, the attraction is dedicated to different works of various artists.

When you are finished exploring this unique attraction, go ahead and stroll the ancient streets of this village . You will stumble upon stunning Renaissance buildings and restored houses that are centuries old.

There are also plenty of ruined castles in town that you can explore with an audio guide. When you visit the castles at Les Beaux de Provence, make sure to check out the ruins of the fortified sites as well.

When the sun sets, you can drive your way to Avignon where you will be spending the night. Take the D570N highway and the entire trip will take approximately 45 minutes.

There are plenty of options for cultural hotels in Avignon if you want to immerse in the Provencal charm. Hotel Boquier has been around since the 18 th century, while Hotel Le Colbert is a charming boutique hotel situated within the walls of the Old Town.

Day 8 | History and Pink Lakes: a Camargue & Provence Itinerary

After a memorable stay in the ancient but beautiful town of Avignon, it is time to head out onto your 8 th day of exploring the South of France region. Since you’re staying the night in Avignon, you might as well take advantage of the sights and attractions to see in this town.

8 AM: Explore the City of Popes

To spend an amazing day in Avignon, you can start with a visit to the Palais des Papes . This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was built to provide accommodation to the Pope during the time when he fled Rome. It is also the reason why the city of Avignon is nicknamed “The City of Popes”.

The palace features 25 grand rooms that are open to the public to explore. The ticket costs 12 Euros (as of 2022).

There is also an abundance of art museums to explore in the city, but probably none as impressive and unmissable as Musee de Petit Palais . This, too, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This museum boasts an extensive display of Italian paintings spanning the 13 th to the 15 th century.

If you are up for another sight-seeing in a historic site, head to Pont Saint-Benezet. Also known as Benezet Bridge , this is an iconic site in Avignon.

And as with any city or village in France, you can also stop by the local farmer’s market. The Peruse Les Halles Market is a vibrant market with a huge array of vendors offering all kinds of local produce and Provencal foods.

1 PM: The Pink Lakes of Aigues-Mortes

Once you have seen the sights and attractions of Avignon, make your way to Aigues Mortes . This lovely town is an ancient walled town. It rises from the marshes and serves as a crossroad between two canals.

While the town is hidden away by imposing medieval walls on all corners, it is actually a lively town filled with bars, restaurants, and shops.

In the summertime, it is packed with tourists looking to marvel at the medieval walls, walking around the shopping district, and sample one of many tourist cafes. While you’re in town, don’t forget to buy local nougat . 

The salt water lagoon, known as Salin d’Aigues-Mortes , surrounds the southern end of the walled town. It is a unique attraction and there are tours available to see the salt marshes up-close.

3 PM: Head to the City of Van Gogh: Arles

By the afternoon, you can get on the road again and be on your way to Arles . This city is perfect for those who like to combine art in their travels.

While Arles might be best known for Van Gogh , there is more to this romantic city. Since this was once the settlement of ancient Greeks, Romans, and Celts, you will find many ancient ruins in Arles. 

The Rhone River is a picturesque natural attraction in Arles, which is believed as part of the inspiration that was used by Van Gogh in his paintings.

Aside from sightseeing in the Rhone River, Place du Forum is another noteworthy attraction to add to your day trip itinerary. This is a ruin so you will only see a fraction of the original Roman forum. But knowing that there are still remnants of the ancient structure that was built during the 1 st century AD is impressive, especially for history buffs.

When in Arles, make sure to visit Café Van Gogh at 11 Place du Forum. This is a perfectly beautiful spot to experience the artistic legacy of the city while enjoying a lovely French meal. Other ruins that you cannot afford to miss in Arles include the Arles Amphitheater, Theatre Antique, and the Baths of Constantine .

You can spend the night in Arles with its eclectic array of accommodation options. This will give you an excuse to spend your night having some drinks at Hotel Nord Pinus or Hotel Jules Cesar at 9 Boulevard des Lices.

Day 9 | Boat Adventures + Pastel-Colored Dreams

For your 9 th day of exploring the South of France region, you will be driving from Arles to the Parc National de Calanque . Wake up bright and early because it’s a one-hour and a half drive, and you don’t want to waste all the morning, right?

9 AM: It’s Adventure Time at Calanques National Park

Riding a boat is the only way to gain access to the Calanques National Park together with biking, but you’ve got two choices here.

➤ You can drive to the Port of Cassis and buy directly here a tour. There are three different types of tours to choose from, depending on your preferred length. However, there might be some pretty long lines if you’re visiting in the summer, so keep this into consideration.

➤ Otherwise, you can book a tour in advance to save time. Most tours depart from Marseille, and the drive from Arles to Marseille takes a little less, around one hour.

➤ The Catamaran Cruise & Lunch is the bestseller tour on GetYourGuide (the platform I personally use to book tours all around the world). Sail up the coast of the Calanques National Park onboard a catamaran, and you’ll get to swim and snorkel in this paradise. The cruise departs at 11 AM, so you have plenty of time to get to Marseille from Arles. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

This French national park is known for its unparalleled beauty, and it’s made up of land and marine area . Some of the best features of the park are the Cosquer Cave, Calanque de Sormiou, Calanque de Sugiton, and more.

If you’re more of an adventurous person, the main attractions in the Parc National de Calanques are best explored by kayaking or by hiking . If you’re lucky, you might even be able to spot a few daredevils cliff diving from atop the cliffs or abseiling. For those who like to experience the marine life, you can also try snorkeling and scuba diving .

➤ Active travelers should also check out the 3-hour Scenic Guided e-bike Tour . You’ll get to cycle along the narrow inlets between limestone mountains and the sea. Sweaty? Yes. Worth it? More. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

4 PM: Check Out the Candy-Colored Buildings of Cassis

Once your adventurous spirit had its fill, you can drive back to Cassis – a stunning Provencal town.

Located along the Mediterranean coastline, Cassis was once a Roman settlement . Spend an idyllic afternoon by the Port de Cassis .

This part of the town is postcard-ready with the candy-colored buildings reflected onto the Mediterranean sea. You can wander around the moored boats and relive what this town once looked like during the time when it was still a fishing village.

You can also spend the afternoon lounging by the beach . There is one close to the port and you can also find many of them dotted throughout the town.

Once you are done swimming or getting tanned, head back into town and sample local food and drink. Crème de Cassis is a popular delicacy that you must try – it’s a sweet liqueur that is made using black currant.

And what is a French town without the Middle Ages chateau? In this town, Chateau de Cassis (Cassis Castle) is one to see. This 9 th -century chateau is perched on top of a cliff; it’s actually been converted into a private hotel so it’s not open to the public , but it’s still worth checking out from the outside.

If you’ve had your fill of Cassis, it is time to hit the road again and drive to Marseille. This is where you will be spending the night. But before you settle into your hotel, there is plenty to see and do in Marseille at night . 

This merchant city comes alive at night. You can catch a live performance at a local theater, or stop by a comedic joint (there are plenty of them). Or, you can have a laid-back evening enjoying some drinks at a local pub or bar. The city of Marseilles has an explosive music scene , so make sure to follow the music and check out local artists on stage.

Day 10 | End Your South of France Itinerary in Marseille

After your night living it up in Marseille, you can spend one full day exploring the other attractions in France’s second-largest city. While Marseille has plenty to offer to get you occupied for days, you can focus on the best and can’t-miss attractions for your one day itinerary.

Skip your hotel breakfast and head to a nearby bakery for an authentic French breakfast . From croissants and other types of French patisseries, it’s just what you need before exploring Marseille.

➤ Since you have a full day in the city, you can start out with a guided 2-hour Segway tour or a half-day e-bike tour to learn more about the history of the city with a guide that will point you to all the major highlights.

➤ Or, you can also get shown around by a passionate local and discover the city like a true resident. This private and affordable Welcome to Marseille Tour will give you a great introduction to the city. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Then, you can continue exploring on your own.

Head to the Old Port of Marseille , which is located at the end of Canebiere. This natural harbor has been around since the ancient times, and was transformed into a pedestrian area in 2013. Around here check out also St. Victor’s Abbey , the Phare de Sainte Marie lighthouse , and the Roman Dock Museum .

If you are looking for a cultural attraction with some history, visit MuCEM , the Museum of the Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. This museum is known as a center for architecture and heritage. When you visit this museum, you will be able to get a visual tour of over 2,600 years’ worth of history!

There are also exhibitions held at various times of the year so there will be something new to look forward to with each visit.

➤ Getting skip-the-line tickets allows you to make the most of your precious time, not having to wait in the queue. ➥ BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE

If you want to enjoy panoramic city views of Marseille, hike up to Notre Dame de la Garde . This is the highest point of the city and is therefore a great vantage point to soak in the gorgeous views .

The hike is tough but the views definitely make it worth it. Make sure you schedule the hike here during the golden hour so you can see the city lit up at night.

Once you go back down to the city of Marseille, enjoy a wine-filled dinner. Try out L’Epuisette , Le Café des Espices, and Le Grain de Sel .

➤ An alternative? Book a Sunset Dinner Cruise along the coast of Marseille to really celebrate the last night of this incredible road trip. It’s going to be unforgettable! ➥ BOOK IT HERE

If You Have Extra Time Don’t Miss…

Got more time to spare? No worries – the French Riviera is packed with many other attractions that you can squeeze into your itinerary.

Add one extra night in Arles and head to the Parc Naturel de Camargue . This regional natural park was established in 1970 and is currently run by a private foundation. This park was established as part of the initiative to protect the species and the marine area covered within the park.

This is one of those cases where I really recommend joining a guided tour .

This park is situated right between two naturally rich areas – the Rhone River Delta and Mediterranean Sea. Sightseeing is the main thing to do here as you will encounter a variety of landscapes and natural formations such as wetland environments, lagoons, and a nature reserve.

There are also a variety of bird species to spot here, such as pink flamingos, eagles, ravens, and other birds of prey. And if you have some more time, make sure to explore the horse stables or try some horseback riding.

What’s the Best Time for a South of France Road Trip?

Timing your visit to the South of France is vital to making the most of your experience. In reality, there is really no bad time to visit this region as it has something unique to offer any time of the year. But planning is crucial so you can do and see more during your holiday.

Spring can bring in unpredictable weather. If you want to make the most of your sightseeing at Cote d’Azur, try to avoid a visit in the early spring as those April showers can spoil your holiday. The best time to go is from May to October . You will enjoy longer days and make the most of the scenery in the region.

Summer, however, is the peak season in France (July to August). While there might be a huge influx of tourists, you can also expect more festivals and fairs around this time.

The South of France region is teeming with opportunities for sightseeing, hiking, food and wine tasting, art and culture explorations, and more. With its rich history, unmatched beauty, and culture, there is no denying that a South of France road trip should be on anyone’s travel bucket list .

If you have not been, make sure to travel here and use this South of France itinerary as a guide to see the best of what the region can offer.

READ ALSO : 22 Epic European Road Trips to Take This Summer

This post contains affiliate links, which means if you book something through one of my links I might get a commission, at absolutely no extra cost to you

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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Dr Sunil Jain

Wednesday 1st of February 2023

Very useful for our forthcoming tour of this region , your comments on Town of Annecy please

Tuesday 7th of February 2023

I haven't been to Annecy, sorry!

Ann Rainaut metz

Thursday 9th of June 2022

Planning 2023

Saturday 11th of June 2022

That's so great!!

Colleen Hahn

Sunday 12th of September 2021

We followed this itinerary in south of France for two weeks. We really loved Hyeres and Aix-en-Provence so much. We wouldn't have considered going to these towns if I hadn't found your itinerary. Thanks again for your awesome tips!

Monday 13th of September 2021

Oh, I'm so glad to hear this itinerary was useful and you enjoyed your trip to France! Your comment truly made my day :)

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The South of France Is My Favorite Vacation Destination — Here Are Its 20 Best Places to Visit

The lavender fields, quaint villages, and beautiful beaches have my heart.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

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France ranks among the most popular tourist destinations in all of Europe — of course there are remarkable destinations in the country that gave us boeuf bourguignon , the Eiffel Tower , and Champagne. But with alluring beaches along the Côte d'Azur , magical lavender fields, and the vineyards of the Luberon, the South of France is a superb destination all on its own. I'm a professional travel writer who's been to 45 countries across six continents, and it's my absolute favorite place in the world to visit. If you’re planning on spending even just a few days in le Midi , this list will help you choose which of the region's many, many highlights to include in your itinerary.

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Gordes is one of the most beautiful small towns in the world , with roads and facades that seem to have sprung from the pages of a children's storybook. Unsurprisingly, tourists beeline to this enchanting Luberon village to see — and snap photos of — its cobbled lanes, white stone buildings, and churches.

Saint-Tropez

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A French Riviera hotspot put on the map by Bridget Bardot and other members of the jet-set pack in the 1960s, Saint-Tropez still sizzles. Sun-kissed holiday goers crowd glamorous beach clubs here, moor their mega yachts in the harbor, shop for breezy linens at the boutiques, and traipse around the old fishing quarter.

Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque

Just outside the tourist-trodden center of Gordes lies Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, a photogenic monastery founded in 1148 by Cistercians monks. Guided tours of the church and cloisters are available throughout the year. When the lavender fields bloom in the summer, this site reaches peak prettiness.

Île Sainte-Marguerite

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Île Sainte-Marguerite floats about half a mile offshore from Cannes. In contrast to its mainland neighbor, the largest of the Lérins Islands is small, slow-paced, and steeped in nature. Expect rocky beaches, turquoise waters, and a eucalyptus forest, as well as a very interesting underwater sculpture museum.

Gabrielle Therin-Weise/Getty Images

It’s not hard to find enchanting hilltop towns in Provence. The enduring charm of Mougin that lured Edith Piaf and Christian Dior enamors all who visit. This medieval village has a snail-shaped center with cobbled lanes and flower-clad houses, plus large-scale art sculptures and award-winning restaurants overlooking the leafy countryside.

Oppède le Vieux

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In stark contrast to the Disneyland-like atmosphere of Gordes, Oppède le Vieux is an under-the-radar village that’s built atop rocks and surrounded by overgrown trees. The stone pathways, steps, and structures here are in various degrees of ruin, which imbues a time-worn charm.

Porquerolles

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Escape to Porquerolles, off the coast of Hyères, for a peaceful respite that can include time lazing on near-empty beaches, swimming in placid tides, sipping your way through vineyards, cycling in the countryside, and wandering through old forts.

Plage des Marinières

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Widely considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the French Riviera, crescent-shaped Plage des Marinières in the darling village of Villefranche-sur-Mer is the perfect spot for a day of basking in the sun, strolling across golden sand, and splashing in the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

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The exclusive commune of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat has long attracted the attention of artists and jet setters with deep pockets and a desire for privacy. Exquisite villas are obscured from sight by lush vegetation. Pristine beaches, scenic hiking trails, and a yacht-filled harbor define this desirable destination.

Site Archéologique de Glanum

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Named after the Celtic god Glanis, Site Archéologique de Glanum traces its roots back to 600 BC. It’s at this extensive site just outside the town of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence that visitors can walk through remarkable surviving remains of both Gaulish and Roman settlements.

Le Sentier des Ocres

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The most iconic and unmissable sight in the Luberon village of Roussilian, Le Sentier des Ocres is a former ochre quarry with walking paths through rust-hued hills. The setting certainly provides spellbinding photo ops.

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Nice is a vibrant seaside city with a lovely historic core. If Vieux Nice is on your itinerary, begin with the Promenade des Anglais, then wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, admiring the pastel-hued facades and shopping for Niçoise soaps. Experience a Provencale market, grab socca (chickpea pancake) at one of the outdoor cafes, and soak in the views from Colline du Château before you depart.

Francesco Riccardo Iacomino/Getty Images

The untamed region between the Mediterranean Sea and the two branches of the Rhône River delta, Camargue defies preconceptions with its vastly different landscape. Rather than olive groves and grape vines, expect salt marshes and reed beds inhabited by free-roaming white horses and pink flamingos.

Valensole Plateau Lavender Fields

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Lavender is the emblem of Provence. The fields on the Valensole Plateau that erupt into a fragrant and gorgeous purple bloom each summer are some of the most popular — and photogenic — attractions in the region.

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Fragrance fans are no doubt familiar with Grasse, a French Riviera town in the hills behind Cannes that’s considered the perfume capital of the word. Rare roses and jasmine for designer luxury scent makers grow in this sunny village. It’s also home to many perfumeries.

Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole

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If you’re at all interested in the life and work of Vincent Van Gogh, consider a visit to Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole. This is the monastery-turned-psychiatric facility in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence where the tortured Dutch artist sought treatment and famously painted “The Starry Night.”

Palais des Papes

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The standout attraction in Avignon, the enormous Palais des Papes served as a pontifical residence in the 14th century. It's also on the shortlist of the most significant medieval Gothic buildings in all of Europe, with ceremonial halls, chapels, a cloister, and frescos.

Mines Bruoux

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Mines Bruoux , near Gargas, gives visitors the chance to tour a maze-like complex of tunnels and galleries in a 19th-century ochre mine. You will learn about the fascinating mining process as you go. The cool underground temperature provides a reprieve from the summer sun, too.

Promenade de la Croisette

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Few places embody French Riviera glamor quite like Promenade de la Croisette. Running along the Mediterranean Sea, the famous palm-fringed thoroughfare is crowned by Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, which hosts the Cannes Film Festival, and you'll find many upmarket hotels, shops, and restaurants here as well.

Carrières de Lumières

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For an unforgettable experience that speaks to Provence’s artistic pedigree, head to Carrières de Lumières in Les Baux-de-Provence. Housed in an old quarry, this contemporary art center hosts multimedia shows that combine larger-than-life projections of famous paintings and music.

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Travel to the south of France without ever leaving Virginia

NATURAL BRIDGE, Va. (WFXR) — Imagine the sights and scents of the Mediterranean region, and more specifically the south of France, without ever leaving Virginia.

Virginia Gold Orchard hopes to make that vision a reality.

“The famous postcard that people see is of the Abbey at Senanque,” said Virginia Gold Orchard owner Thomas Vandiver. “It’s in the south of France; that beautiful church in the background with all the nice tight rows. we want to recreate that exact view here.”

Virginia Gold Orchard is one of many growing operations in Virginia expanding agritourism to increase cash flow against razor thin margins, and as a hedge against adverse factors like weather or disease. Planting fields of lavender is part of that plan.

Virginia Gold’s primary crop is Asian pears. The owners also own Ramulose Ridge Vineyards in Moneta, and they have a Ramulose Ridge tasting room at the orchard. Last year Virginia Gold planted and sold cut flowers to offset pear crop loss due to a late freeze. This year, lavender has been added to the mix.

“It’s going to allow us to create a really beautiful environment in this area,” said Vandiver motioning to an area that had been cleared and plowed. “In just a couple of months it’s going to be filled with crushed gravel and raised beds. that way when you walk you get that beautiful feel truly like you’ve gone to the south of France.”

Recreating the lavender fields of the south of France means Virginia Gold will have to recreate the growing conditions of the south of France. While the climate, warm and humid is a good match, the soil composition is not. Because of that, Vandiver will actually plant his fields in raised pots. That way he can control soil content and chemistry.

“It thrives on adversity,” Vandiver said. “If you give lavender too much water, too much fertilizer, if you give it that beautiful potting soil we pay top dollar for, you’ll kill it.”

What lavender prefers is rocky, dry soil. Vandiver has purchased a mix that Virginia Gold will use for its lavender crop. The plants are tiny, right now, and will be planted in the next month.

“These are our little babies that’ll be going out into the field soon,” said Vandiver as he walked through a greenhouse at the orchard. “They will eventually become a perennial crop once they’re established.

While growing and farming are still the primary focus, providing a unique experience is also key to profitability. Vandiver says good memories are among the crops Virginia Gold wants to cultivate.

“We want our customers to enjoy that country lifestyle; be able to take in the views, take in the smells, and really just relax.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.

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Planning for April 2025 - is this itinerary doable? - Paris Forum

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My husband is particularly interested in going to Normandy. I am considering this itinerary:

Day 1 - morning - Arrive Paris and spend one night.

Day 2 - Take train from Paris St-Lazare to Caen spend 4 nights in Caen.

Day 3 - I am considering a private 3 day tour of the area covering sights related to the war (Utah Beach, Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, Normandy American Cemetery) first day of tour

Day 4 - Visit of the Mont St Michel Abbey & Village, Avranches, Visit of the Scriptorial ( Medieval Manuscripts of the Mont St Michel ) , Villedieu les Poeles, Church Bell Factory - second day of tour

Day 5 - Stop in Camembert, Orbec Ferme du Bec d'Or, Lisieux, Breuil en Auge Chateau and Distillery, Trouville - Visit of the seafood market, Honfleur - Visit of the village - third day of tour

Day 6 - return to Paris by train.

Days 7, 8, 9 - Paris

Day 10 - fly home

Does this itinerary look doable? We usually don't have much issue with jet lag and I think I prefer having more of Paris at the end of our trip. Wish we could see more of France but we have limited time this trip. Thanks for advice.

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