Things to do in Provence
Discover the best attractions and experiences Provence has to offer
Historic Monuments
Provence's history unfolds through grand palaces, Roman bridges and ancient arenas spread across the region.
Palais des Papes (Avignon)
The enormous medieval papal residence dominating Avignon, a UNESCO site with rich frescoes and halls.
Pont du Gard
A flawless Roman aqueduct bridge spanning the Gardon River, among the region’s most iconic monuments.
Arènes d'Arles
One of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world, still echoing with history.
Château des Baux
Impressive ruined fortress perched above the Alpilles with sweeping valley views.
Museums
From ancient collections to modern art, Provence’s museums span centuries and styles.
Musée Granet
Aix-en-Provence’s premier art museum with works by Cézanne and classical European masters.
Musée Réattu
Arles’ museum of contemporary and classic art housed in a former artist’s studio.
Musée du Petit Palais
Avignon’s fine arts museum set in a historic palace with a rich collection.
Fondation Vasarely
Aix-en-Provence’s striking geometric art museum and sculpture garden.
Religious Monuments
Sacred spaces throughout Provence showcase distinctive architecture and peaceful atmospheres.
Notre-Dame de la Garde
Marseille’s iconic basilica perched above the city with panoramic harbor views.
Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms d'Avignon
Avignon’s cathedral overlooking the Rhône and the historic town center.
Abbaye de Sénanque
A serene 12th-century Cistercian abbey framed by lavender fields near Gordes.
Église Saint-Trophime
Arles’ Romanesque church renowned for its ornate façade and cloister.
National & Theme Parks
Protective reserves and dramatic landscapes showcase Provence’s natural beauty.
Parc national des Calanques
Steep limestone cliffs, turquoise coves and sparkling trails south of Marseille and Cassis.
Gorges du Verdon
Europe’s deepest canyon, carved by the turquoise Verdon river, ideal for canyoning and viewpoints.
Parc naturel régional du Luberon
Rolling hills, vineyards and picturesque hilltop villages in central Provence.
Neighborhoods
Characterful quarters invite wandering, dining and discovering local life.
Le Panier (Marseille)
Marseille’s oldest district with narrow lanes, colorful houses and local cafés.
Vieil Aix (Aix-en-Provence)
The historic heart around Cours Mirabeau, fountains and markets.
Les Baux-de-Provence (village center)
Medieval village perched on a rocky outcrop, with winding streets and a castle.
Gordes (village center)
Iconic hilltop village with stone houses and sweeping Provençal views.
Free Things to Do
Some of Provence’s best experiences come at no cost when you’re exploring on foot.
Stroll the Vieux-Port (Marseille)
Watch fishermen bring in the day’s catch and enjoy the harbor atmosphere at sunset.
Hike the Calanques coastline
Follow coastal trails to hidden coves with breathtaking sea views.
Explore Aix-en-Provence markets on foot
Wander through vibrant markets and lanes to soak up local life.
Sunset viewpoints on Montagne Sainte-Victoire
Catch golden light over the iconic landscape painted by Cézanne.
Gastronomy
Provencal cuisine is a celebration of sunshine, herbs and sea flavors.
Bouillabaisse
A rich Marseille fish stew flavored with saffron and aromatic herbs.
Calissons d'Aix
Delicate almond and candied fruit sweet treats from Aix-en-Provence.
Tapenade
Savory olive paste spread, perfect on bread or in Provençal dishes.
Aioli Provençal
Garlic-tinged aioli served with vegetables, fish or seafood, a regional staple.
Nightlife
After dark, Provence comes alive with harbor bars, lively squares and music.
Vieux-Port nightlife (Marseille)
Bars and terraces along the harbor offering sea breezes and lively atmospheres.
Cours Julien nightlife (Marseille)
Eclectic bars and live music in a bohemian district popular with locals.
Avignon’s nightlife around Place de l'Horloge
Cafés, pubs and music venues in the heart of the historic city.
Entertainment
Seasonal festivals and performances showcase Provence’s cultural vibrancy.
Festival d'Avignon
One of the world’s great contemporary theater festivals, held each summer.
Rencontres de la Photographie d'Arles
Prestigious annual photography festival presenting international exhibitions.
Festival d'art lyrique d'Aix-en-Provence
Opera festival blending world-class productions with Provençal charm.
Marseille Jazz des Cinq Continents
Seasonal jazz festival bringing international artists to the port city.
Sports
Active travelers can chase coastal winds, canyon gorges and mountain trails.
Hiking in the Verdon Gorge
Thread your way along scenic trails with dramatic canyon panoramas.
Kayaking in the Calanques near Cassis
Paddle along turquoise coves into calm, sheltered inlets.
Cycling the Luberon hills
Ride through vineyards, lavender fields and hilltop villages.
Off the Track
Discover lesser-known experiences that reveal Provence’s hidden flavors and landscapes.
Hot air balloon over the Luberon
Soar above vineyards and villages for a unique perspective.
Lavender field tour near Valensole
Seasonal visits to fragrant lavender fields—great for photography.
Truffle hunting near Richerenches
Participate in a real truffle hunt and learn about regional gastronomy.
Wine-tasting and vineyard visits in Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Explore historic vineyards and sample iconic Provençal wines.