On the road in Provence

Fragrant lavender fields, sun-dappled vineyards, rocky Mediterranean coastlines, and buttercream-coloured hilltop villages weave a tapestry of natural beauty across Provence. From idyllic markets to ancient Roman ruins, this itinerary takes you on a road trip through the region’s most coveted cultural and historical sights. Buckle up todiscover the best of Provence by car.

At a glance

  • A five-day road trip itinerary beginning in Aix-en-Provence and ending in the port city of Marseille. You can either fly in and out of Marseille, or alternatively, take the high-speed train from Paris to Provence.
  • Highlights include perusing market stalls for antique treasures, retracing the footsteps (and canvases) of Van Gogh, and venturing deep into the Alpilles.
  • A car is necessary for this itinerary. You can rent a car from the Marseille airport or from one of the major cities in the region, such as Aix-en-Provence or Avignon.

Day 3: Avignon

Situated along the banks of the Rhone River, Avignon is considered the ‘Gateway to Provence,’ with its central location providing convenient access for exploring the region.

Begin your morning outside the city at the Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct that spans the Gardon River. Stroll along the ancient stone arches and admire the incredible craftsmanship of this centuries-old structure.

Travel Tips

The ideal time to visit Provence for good weather is from June to August; however, expect crowds, as this is also the busiest time of year. The lavender fields peak in July and are typically in bloom from the end of June to early August.

Previous

Editor’s picks for April: from Colorado to Pakistan

Next

The dreamiest private villas to rent in Europe

Latest stories

Amsterdam turns 750: why now is the moment to visit the Netherlands’ capital

In 2025, Amsterdam marks a historic milestone: its 750th birthday. A city of canals and contradictions, where Golden Age architecture rubs shoulders with cutting-edge design, Amsterdam has always been a crowd-drawing destination. But this year, the Dutch capital is pulling out all the stops to honour its long and layered

This rewilding estate is leading nature’s comeback in the Cotswolds

In the rolling heart of the Cotswolds, where honey-stone cottages and heritage orchards have long defined the countryside aesthetic, something quietly radical is taking root in Tetbury. At Calcot & Spa, rewilding is more than a trend — it’s at the heart of everything this Considerate Collection country house hotel

From Patagonia to Paris: 6 boutique hotels on our editor’s wish-list

In a world increasingly driven by algorithms and automation, there remains something oh-so-sweet about the art of personalised hospitality. For the discerning traveller, it’s not just about where you go — it’s about how it feels to be there. The following six hotels — each distinct in location, culture, and

Independent Minds: the Kestelli family, KestelINN Alaçatı

In the sun-dappled village of Alaçatı, where time moves to the rhythm of cicadas and the scent of olive groves hangs in the air, KestelINN stands as a quiet testament to soul-led hospitality. This hotel is a heartfelt expression of a family’s vision, layered with history, heritage, and the warmth