Provence

DESTINATIONS france provence

Provence

Located in the southeast of France, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur is a charming region celebrated for its beautiful coastline, with popular destinations like Nice and Saint-Tropez, as well as its spectacular natural scenery, ranging from the majestic French Alps to the awe-inspiring lavender fields. Provence boasts numerous historical landmarks, including the ancient Roman city of Arles and the Palais des Papes in Avignon. The region is also a hotspot for outdoor activities, such as skiing and hiking, and hosts renowned festivals, such as the Cannes Film Festival and the Avignon Theatre Festival.

The Region Cities & Towns of Provence

The Region

The region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur is more than just a picturesque destination in Southern France. It's a place where the past and present come together in a colourful blend of culture and history. The region's strategic location at the crossroads of several civilisations has left an indelible mark on its identity, from its architecture and cuisine to its art and traditions. In ancient times, this area was inhabited by Ligurian and Celtic tribes before being conquered by the Greeks and then the Romans. The Roman Empire left a lasting impact on the region, with impressive architectural feats such as the Pont du Gard and the Roman city of Arles. In the Middle Ages, Provence was ruled by various feudal lords and became a centre of trade and culture. In the 14th century, Avignon became the seat of the Catholic Church and the Palais des Papes was constructed, marking a period of great wealth and cultural flourishing. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Provence experienced economic growth through the textiles and soap production industries. The region also attracted artists such as Vincent van Gogh and Paul Cézanne, who were inspired by its natural beauty and vibrant culture. During World War II, Provence was occupied by Italy and later Germany. The ports of Marseille and Toulon were heavily bombed, but after the war, the region was reconstructed, and tourism thrived. Today, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur still maintains its vibrant and lively character, boasting a rich cultural legacy and a profound sense of identity. It is France's most popular holiday destination, with six departments and numerous cities, including Nice, Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, Cannes, Antibes, Orange, and Marseille.

Cities & Towns of Provence

Provence boasts a treasure trove of captivating cities and towns to explore, each with its own unique charm and allure. And with so many delightful destinations to choose from, deciding where to start can be a bit overwhelming. But fear not, for we have compiled a concise guide to help you uncover some of the must-visit cities and towns in this enchanting region.

Do & See Dining Cafés Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

From exploring its stunning lavender fields to skiing in the French Alps to wandering through its picturesque hilltop towns to rubbing elbows with the rich and famous in the French Riviera, there's definitely something for everyone in Provence. The Mediterranean climate is ideal for growing grapes, and wine enthusiasts will be delighted by the region's vineyards, which produce some of the finest wines in France. Visitors can also explore the region's ancient olive groves, learn about the history and production of olive oil, and even participate in tastings to discover the diverse flavours of this culinary treasure. The Côte d'Azur's beautiful coastline is another major draw, with glamorous cities such as Nice and Saint-Tropez offering sun, sea, and sand in abundance. Culture vultures will love exploring the region's historic landmarks and fascinating museums, such as Cézanne's Studio and the Vincent van Gogh Foundation.

Provence's Lavender Fields

Immerse yourself in the captivating aroma of Provence by visiting its famous lavender fields. While the duration of the lavender season varies across different areas of Provence, it generally takes place from the last week of June to the beginning of August when the flowers are harvested. This is the perfect time to capture …

Arles Amphitheatre (Arles)

The Arles Amphitheatre (Arènes d'Arles) is the most prominent tourist attraction in the town. It was constructed in 90 AD and could seat up to 20,000 people. The design of the amphitheatre was influenced by the famous Coliseum in Rome and it features 120 arches, galleries, staircases, and two levels of seating. The venue …

Palais des Papes (Avignon)

The Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a magnificent historical palace located in Avignon and one of the most grandiose medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. It once served as a fortress and palace and housed 9 Popes throughout the 14th century. Visitors can explore the palace and gain an insight into …

Vincent van Gogh Foundation (Arles)

The Vincent van Gogh Foundation is a non-profit organisation dedicated to celebrating the works of this prolific artist whose creativity blossomed during his stay in Arles between 1888 and 1889. But the Vincent van Gogh Foundation is more than just a museum showcasing the artist's works; it is a platform that explores the impact of …

Pont du Gard

The Pont du Gard is a remarkable ancient Roman aqueduct bridge located near the town of Vers-Pont-du-Gard, less than 40 min from Avignon. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited attractions in the country. The bridge is renowned for its impressive engineering, stunning beauty, and historical significance, serving as …

Calanques National Park

Located between the communes of Marseille and Cassis, the Calanques National Park is a sequence of stunning inlets boasting breathtaking landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and a plethora of outdoor activities. The Park includes coastal mountain ranges, a vast expanse of the Mediterranean Sea, several islands, and one of the world's most bountiful submarine canyons. …

Picasso Museum (Antibes)

The Picasso Museum in Antibes is housed in the stunning Château Grimaldi, where Pablo Picasso took up residence following an invitation by the then-curator of the Grimaldi Museum. During his two prolific years in Antibes, Picasso produced numerous works that he later donated to the castle. The museum displays an impressive collection of Picasso's paintings, …

French Riviera Day Trip with Monaco & Cannes from Nice

Explore the south of France's playground of the rich and famous on this day trip to Cannes & Monaco from Nice. Prepare yourself to feel like a movie star as you tour the Côte d'Azur's elegant coastal towns like Cannes, Èze, and Juan-les-Pins, as well as the glamorous city-state of …

Gorges du Verdon

Carved by the Verdon River, Gorges du Verdon is a remarkable natural setting that is among the most spectacular in Europe. This 25-kilometre limestone canyon is characterised by turquoise waters and reaches depths of over 700 meters at some points. Travellers have several options for experiencing this breathtaking landscape, including driving along the top, climbing …

Museum of Civilisations of Europe & the Mediterranean (Marseille)

The MuCEM (Musée des Civilisations de l'Europe et de la Méditerranée) is an award-winning museum dedicated to the rich history of the civilisations of Europe and the Mediterranean. It was designed by French-Algerian architect Rudy Ricciotti and built in 2013, the year in which the city of Marseille was named the cultural capital of …

Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille)

An emblematic figure of Marseille, the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, known to locals as la Bonne Mère, towers on a hilltop 154 metres above the city, with the gilded statue of the Virgin Mary stretching skywards. The views from up here are simply stunning. Take the shuttle for convenience or embark on a …

Ride the Cable Car to Mount Faron (Toulon)

A must-do activity when in Toulon is to ride the cable car up Mont Faron, a towering limestone crag that stands at an impressive 584 meters above the city. The seven-minute ascent in the charming red cable car — featuring a sizeable glass floor panel — offers magnificent vistas throughout, including a panoramic view …

Eden Theatre — The Oldest Cinema in the World (La Ciotat)

The Eden Theatre opened in June 1889 as a theatre and music hall but also played host to boxing and Greco-Roman wrestling, opera performances, and concerts. It is recognised as the world's first public cinema, and it remains the oldest functioning one. In 1982, it closed after its proprietor was killed in a robbery. However, …

Place Masséna (Nice)

Located in the heart of Nice's historic quarter, Place Masséna is a charming 19th-century square with striking black and white geometric tiles. The square is surrounded by elegant neoclassical buildings and cafés, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the city's ambience. Throughout the year, Place Masséna hosts a variety of …

Prado Beaches (Marseille)

Located at the end of the corniche are the Plages du Prado, Marseille's stretches of sandy beaches. With a steady sea breeze, the beaches are excellent for kite-flying or a first windsurfing lesson. Prado encompasses several compact beaches with multiple shopping and dining opportunities in the …

Château d'If (Marseille)

Château d'If is a historic fortress located on a small island off the coast of Marseille. Built in the 16th century, the castle served as a military prison until the end of the 19th century. Visitors can explore the castle's narrow cells and see the exhibitions about the fortress's history and its use as …

Cézanne's Studio (Aix-en-Provence)

Located on the outskirts of Aix-en-Provence, just a 20-minute walk from the Cours Mirabeau, Cézanne's Studio or Atelier de Cézanne was the home and studio and is now a museum of 19th-century Impressionist painter Paul Cézanne. During the years 1902 to 1906, Cézanne worked daily in this bright studio, creating many of the works …

Cours Mirabeau (Aix-en-Provence)

Cours Mirabeau is a picturesque, tree-lined avenue that serves as a hub of commerce and entertainment in Aix-en-Provence. The avenue boasts a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, catering to both locals and visitors. The thoroughfare is also home to a diverse array of markets, offering locals a convenient spot for their regular shopping …

Old Town (Aix-en-Provence)

North of Cours Mirabeau lies Aix-en-Provence’s Old Town (Vieil Aix), the city's ancient heart. This area has been inhabited and used for commerce since Roman times and boasts some of the city's grandest historical buildings. Today, it is a lively and vibrant neighbourhood, with an abundance of shops, cafés, restaurants, and …

Place de l'Horloge (Avignon)

Place de l'Horloge (Clock Tower Square) is the main square and heart of Avignon. It gets its name from the city's Gothic clock tower, which is, ironically, barely visible from the square as it's obscured by newer Neoclassical City Hall buildings. The square is a melting pot of culture and history, housing the City …

Museum of the Roman Docks (Marseille)

The Museum of the Roman Docks is situated on the site of a Roman docks warehouse discovered after World War II. Here you can find a range of impressive artefacts discovered during the reconstruction of the old harbour. One of its primary attractions are the "dolia" — large ceramic containers once used to store …

Marseille History Museum (Marseille)

Step back in time and discover the fascinating history of Marseille at the Marseille History Museum. The museum boasts an impressive collection of historical and archaeological artefacts that date back to the city's founding times. With 3500 m2 of exhibition space, an auditorium, and a documentation centre, there is plenty to see and do …

Parc Borély (Marseille)

Parc Borély is a stunning development covering many hectares, situated not too far from the Prado beaches. Apart from the 18th-century château, there are the superbly well-maintained English and French Botanical Gardens and a rowing …

Saint-Victor Abbey (Marseille)

A few steps from the Vieux-Port lies Saint-Victor Abbey, Marseille's oldest church. Built by the graves of Marseille's first martyrs, the abbey has served various purposes throughout history, including as a church, prison, warehouse, and barracks. And despite a history that is lined with war and destruction, this remains one of the most beautiful …

Dining

The cuisine of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region is known for its fresh and flavorful ingredients, which are influenced by the region's Mediterranean climate and proximity to the sea. It is strongly characterised by the use of olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, herbs, and seafood. Popular dishes include bouillabaisse (a fish stew), ratatouille (a vegetable stew), socca (a chickpea pancake), and pissaladière (a pizza-like dish with caramelized onions and anchovies). For those with a sweet tooth, you can try local treats such as honey, calissons (candies made from almonds and melon), chocolate mendiants, and quince paste. The wine region in Provence boasts an exceptional variety of wines due to the favourable climate and soil conditions. The region is especially known for its rosé wines, which pair perfectly with the local cuisine.

Bistrot d'Antoine (Nice)

If you're looking for an authentic taste of Old Nice, look no further than Bistrot d'Antoine, a quintessential French bistro that captures the essence of the city's rich culinary heritage. The menu features a tempting array of meat and seafood dishes, bursting with flavours. And don't forget to leave room for dessert — the …

La Villa Madie (Cassis)

At La Villa Madie, award-winning chef Dimitri Droisneau masterfully captures the essence of the South of France's land and sea produce to create a truly magical culinary experience. The resulting dishes are nothing short of exquisite, seamlessly blending the finest Mediterranean flavours and aromas. The restaurant's wine selection is on par, featuring an array …

Le Miramar (Marseille)

This restaurant is located in the heart of the Vieux Port (along with all the other upmarket local fish restaurants). Le Miramar has earned its spotless reputation as being the place to go for bouillabaisse. The restaurant's menu is, however, rather varied and includes other French and Mediterranean seafood dishes as …

Restaurant Le Violette (Avignon)

Away from the hectic tourist streets of Avignon and inside Hôtel de Caumont, a private art museum, you'll find this unique and elegant restaurant serving traditional and regional flavours inspired by cuisine from around the world, especially …

Mitch (Aix-en-Provence)

Located in the heart of Aix, Mitch is a family-owned restaurant that serves contemporary French cuisine with a creative twist. It may be a small place, but it's making a big impression on the local dining scene. From start to finish, the culinary experience at Mitch is a delight, with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that …

La Cuisine du Dimanche (Avignon)

At La Cuisine du Dimanche, innovative and seasonal dishes are served in a lovely and intimate setting. You can either choose your meal or have the chef choose for it you — the 3-course surprise menu is always a big hit among diners. Booking is essential as there's a limited seating capacity of 25 …

La Trinquette (Gordes)

Hidden away on a beautiful cobblestone street with an incredible view over a Provençal valley, La Trinquette offers superb modern French cuisine in an unpretentious environment. Impeccably flavoured, plated and presented, the food is sure to leave your tastebuds craving more. Don't miss the highly recommended seafood ravioli — it's a standout dish that …

L'incontournable (Aix-en-Provence)

L'incontournable is an elegant eatery that offers a blend of traditional French cuisine and modern culinary techniques, resulting in artfully plated classics that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. One of the highlights of L'incontournable is its stunning location. Situated in the heart of the city, the restaurant is surrounded by historic architecture and …

Restaurant JAN (Nice)

Acclaimed South African chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen invites diners to embark on a culinary journey celebrating the best of France and his homeland through his whimsical and exquisite creations. And as a special treat, the menu includes a visit to MARIA, where guests can explore a selection of the finest curated cheese …

Chez Mô – Albert 1er (Antibes)

Located just a stone's throw away from the ramparts and the Cap d’Antibes peninsula, Chez Mô – Albert 1er is both a fishmonger and restaurant that serves the finest seafood delicacies the sea has to offer. Indulge in super fresh fish, oysters, sea urchins, and Japanese sushi in a spacious, bright, and comfortable setting …

Le Criquet (Arles)

Located near the Arles amphitheatre on a dead-end street, Le Criquet is a quaint and delightful family-owned restaurant serving set menus of French classics and seafood dishes in a rustic ambience, with exposed stone walls and wooden …

La Table du Fort (Marseille)

Hidden on a quiet street near the docks, La Table Du Fort is a popular restaurant serving inventive and refined Frech cuisine boasting a combination of flavours that are great discoveries, such as mint oil with veal and Tonka beans with …

La Cantine (Marseille)

Tucked away in a beautiful and vibrant square just off the old port of Marseille, La Cantine features a menu of French and Mediterranean specialities, rich desserts, a great selection of wines, as well as a large outdoor …

Jardin Des Arts (Arles)

Jardin Des Arts is a charming and unpretentious restaurant offering tasty pasta and meat dishes in the cloister of the Trinitarians from the 13th …

Le Petit Nice Passedat (Marseille)

Treat your taste buds to chef Gérald Passedat's delightful signature dishes at this three-star-Michelin restaurant inside Le Petit Nice Passedat Hotel. Ingredients are fresh, locally sourced, and seafood based. Each dish is artfully presented, and the atmosphere is serene and romantic, with beautiful views of the …

Cafés

While France may be more famous for its wine and cheese, the region's coffee scene is a hidden gem worth exploring. From quaint cafés in charming villages to chic espresso bars in trendy cities, coffee lovers will find plenty of options to satisfy their caffeine cravings. The region's coffee culture is influenced by both French and Italian traditions, creating a unique blend of flavours and brewing techniques. Whether you prefer a classic café au lait or a frothy cappuccino, the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region has something to offer for every coffee lover.

Torréfaction Noailles (Marseille)

Looking for a taste of history in the heart of Marseille? Look no further than Torrefaction Noailles, a historic coffee shop that has been serving the community since 1927. Step inside and you'll be transported back to a bygone era as you take in the charming ambience of the shop. Enjoy a wide selection …

Angela Glacier (Roussillon)

When it comes to finding the best ice cream in Roussillon (perhaps in the region), look no further than Angela Glacier. This artisanal ice cream shop offers a wide range of delicious flavours, all made with care and attention to detail. From classic favourites like chocolate and vanilla to more exotic options like lavender …

7VB Café (Marseille)

Located in the trendy district of Panier, 7VB Café is a cosy and hipster-inspired coffee shop serving specialty coffee, light meals, and delicious pastries, including mouth-watering cinnamon rolls. The sight of lush greenery and plants adorning every corner of the café creates a relaxing and inviting atmosphere, and jazz being played over the speakers …

Cafés Indien (Nice)

A hidden gem in the middle of the cobbled streets of Nice's Old Town, Cafés Indien is a quaint little artisan coffee shop offering a wide range of high-quality roasted coffee beans from all over the world as well as tea and baked goods in a cosy …

Le Petit Arles (Arles)

Nestled away in a side street in the heart of Arles, Le Petit Arles is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, who come for the delicious savoury and sweet crepes that are a speciality of the house. But if you're in the mood for something other than crepes, you'll find plenty of …

Café Tulipe (Avignon)

Café Tulipe is a modern and chic café offering specialty coffee, homemade pastries, light meals, plus juices and teas in a bright, airy, and inviting atmosphere. On a sunny day, you can even take advantage of the café's outdoor seating, which spills out onto the cobbled street in front, and enjoy the warm Provençal …

Hobo Coffee (Nice)

Hobo Coffee is a charming coffee shop in the heart of Vieux Nice. Its bohemian vibe and quaint terrace make it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee or a casual …

Le Tuyau (Aix-en-Provence)

Le Tuyau is a coffee shop and sandwich restaurant that serves a wide variety of delectable open-faced sandwiches, salads, pastries, and specialty coffee—a great spot for weekend brunches or breakfast during the …

Bars & Nightlife

Provence caters to all kinds of nightlife preferences, whether you're looking for a relaxed evening with friends or a night filled with dancing and socialising. From intimate wine bars to large dance clubs, there's no shortage of options available to visitors seeking an unforgettable night out in the region. The after-dark offerings in Provence vary depending on the city or town you visit. Below is a brief summary of what to expect in some of the major cities in the region: Marseille is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, with the Vieux Port and Cours Julien districts being popular destinations for those seeking bars, clubs, and live music venues. The Old Town in Nice, known as Vieux Nice, provides an assortment of bars, pubs, and clubs, whereas Promenade des Anglais is a favoured beachfront spot featuring bars and nightclubs. Cannes, famous for its glamorous lifestyle, showcases a nightlife scene that reflects this with its upscale bars, nightclubs, and rooftop lounges. As a university town, Aix-en-Provence boasts a dynamic nightlife scene, especially in the Old Town where bars, pubs, and nightclubs abound, primarily catering to its student population. Finally, Avignon presents a more laid-back nightlife scene, with many bars and restaurants having outdoor seating and live music shows throughout the summer months.

La Cave Des Pas Sages (Avignon)

La Cave Des Pas Sages is a small wine bar located in a picturesque tree-shaded side street featuring a great selection of local Provençal wines, as well as beers, plus live music every Saturday …

Waka Bar (Nice)

If you're looking for a beachfront bar with a relaxed vibe and stunning sea view, Waka Bar is the perfect place for you. With great cocktails, delicious tapas-style snacks and sharing platters, this establishment has everything you need to unwind and enjoy the beach life. For a better view, make your way up to …

Bar à Bières (Aix-en-Provence)

As the name implies, Bar à Bières is dedicated to all things beer, which makes it the perfect destination for beer lovers right in the heart of the city. They offer a wide selection of draft beers, including English, Belgian, brown, blonde, fruity, and citrus options to name a few. There's something for all …

Paddy Mullin's (Arles)

Paddy Mullin's is a beloved old-school Irish pub known for its great selection of beers—both artisanal and local beers as well as more well-known brews. With live music performances on a regular basis, this lively pub is the perfect place to let loose and have some fun. If you're feeling peckish, their tasty pub …

Dock Des Suds (Marseille)

Dock des Suds is a popular cultural and live music venue housed on the site of a former port warehouse. It is known for its diverse programming of events, ranging from music concerts and festivals to art exhibitions and theatrical performances. Its industrial-style architecture featuring high ceilings and exposed brick walls adds a distinctive …

Pam Pam (Antibes)

Pam Pam is a long-standing and vibrant bar offering a wide selection of expertly crafted cocktails and ice cream sundaes along with Brazilian dancing and exotic shows in a Polynesian setting. With its lively entertainment and unique atmosphere, Pam Pam is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a fun night out in …

The Pipeline (Avignon)

Modelled after an English pub, The Pipeline is a convivial beer hall where patrons can catch up on the latest sports events while enjoying a cold brew from its impressive collection of local and international beers. It also serves a tasty menu of snacks and hearty meals, including salads, pizzas, and sharing …

La Cave Romagnan (Nice)

La Cave Romagnan is a hidden gem in the heart of Nice that wine lovers and music enthusiasts alike will adore. As one of the oldest cellars in the city, it has a rich history and a reputation for excellence. It features an impressive lineup of regular events, including live jazz, slam poetry, theatre …

La Caravelle (Marseille)

Located inside the iconic Hôtel Bellevue, La Caravelle is a classic bistro and bar offering casual small plates and an assortment of drinks, as well as stunning views of Marseille's old port. The retro nautical décor adds to the overall charm of the bar while the jazz concerts and live music performances enhance even …

Le Petit Baron (Aix-en-Provence)

Le Petit Baron is a charming wine bar located in the heart of Aix-en-Provence that offers a wide selection of local and international wines along with a delicious menu of small plates and cheese boards, which pair perfectly with your …

Shopping

In Provence, visitors can enjoy an array of shopping opportunities, from high-end boutiques and luxury brands to colourful local markets and artisanal crafts. The region is home to many talented potters and ceramicists, who offer a variety of colourful and unique pottery pieces, such as bowls, plates, and vases. Additionally, Provence boasts a diverse selection of textiles, including tablecloths, napkins, and curtains that showcase traditional Provençal designs and colours. Explore the narrow streets of picturesque towns, such as Aix-en-Provence, and browse through shops selling lavender products, soaps, essential oils, and other regional specialities. In larger cities such as Nice, Cannes, and Marseille, you'll find designer shops, department stores, and large shopping centres. Lastly, Provence is also famous for its food markets, where visitors can taste and purchase local cheeses, honey, and olive oils.