7-Day South of France Itinerary: Provence and French Riviera

Looking for the perfect South of France itinerary? This 7-day itinerary will help you experience the best of Provence and the French Riviera. From vibrant markets in Aix-en-Provence to relaxing on the stunning beaches of Villefranche-sur-Mer, this itinerary offers a mix of cultural discoveries and natural beauty.

Key Takeaways

• The best times to visit Provence and the French Riviera are in May, June, and September for ideal weather and fewer crowds, with lavender fields blooming in mid-June to mid-July!
• Traveling to the region is easy with convenient airports and TGV trains; renting a car is a must for exploring the charming towns at your own pace!
• This exciting 7-day itinerary showcases the highlights of Provence and the French Riviera, including vibrant markets, stunning landscapes, and beautiful coastal towns!

Best time to visit the south of France

Choose the right time to visit the south of France can greatly improve your experience. The best time to go is from April to September; more specifically May, June, and September due to both favorable weather and fewer tourists. These months strike a nice balance between the benefits of warm temperature and few people cluttering up all the nice sites to enjoy throughout this region of France.

• Peak season: Travel during July and August brings you vibrant festivals and bustling with people. Simply expect more human beings and higher prices.
• Shoulder Season: Go in March or May, or come during the fall to experience less crowds and lower prices. Provide a more personal experience through local culture and landscapes.
• Lavender Fields: Visit the iconic lavender fields between mid-June and mid-July. The last week in June or the first week in July would be ideal for either enjoying the peak of the lavender season while missing the major tourist crowds.

Do remember that, for most people, the best time for your south of France itinerary will depend on what you value and at what time. 

Getting to Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

Traveling to Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur is simple, with several convenient options available. The main airports serving this stunning area include Nice, Marseille, Toulon-Hyères, and Avignon.

Fly into a major European hub

Most travelers from the US fly out of major cities like New York or Los Angeles to major European cities such as Paris (CDG), London (LHR), or Amsterdam (AMS). You can fly directly to most of these European cities from major US airports.

Connecting flight or train

When you arrive in Paris, you can fly to Marseille Provence Airport. The best option due to its central location and excellent connections. You can catch direct flights from Paris to any of Provence’s airports, including Marseille (MRS) or Nice (NCE). The flight from Paris to Marseille takes about 1.5 hours.

Alternatively, you can take a train from Paris to Provence. The TGV high-speed train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Avignon or Aix-en-Provence takes about 3 hours.

Renting a car

Renting a car is highly recommended to explore the region at your own pace. It's quite the trip from Paris to Aix-en-Provence. It takes around 8 hours, so it's better to break it up into two days. The positive side is that you'll cross some of France's most beautiful sceneries.

For more details on getting around in France, be sure to check out how to get around in France.

7-Day South of France itinerary overview

This 7-day itinerary through Provence and the French Riviera immerses you in the region’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and charming towns. Here’s a quick glance at the detailed itinerary: 

• Day 1 begins in Aix-en-Provence, known for its lively markets and historic sites. 
• Day 2 takes you to the medieval village of Les Baux-de-Provence, followed by a visit to the picturesque Luberon Villages and lavender fields on Day 3.
• Day 4 focuses on the natural beauty of Calanques National Park and the charming town of Cassis. 
• On Day 5, explore the artistic haven of Saint-Paul-de-Vence and the stunning Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild.
• Day 6 delves into the coastal towns and beautiful beaches of the French Riviera.
• Day 7 concludes in Nice with its scenic Promenade des Anglais and historical Castle Hill. 

This south of France itinerary ensures you experience the best of the South of France in just one week.

Day 1: Explore Aix-en-Provence

Begin your adventure in Aix-en-Provence, known for its vibrant markets and artistic heritage. Start by exploring the bustling flea market held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The daily fruit and vegetable market at Place Richelme offers fresh produce from local farmers and is a feast for the senses.

Don’t miss the flower market, showcasing a dazzling array of blossoms and plants daily except on the first Sunday of each month. The fairground market on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings is another highlight, where you can shop for regional products, clothing, and accessories. 

After a morning of shopping, take a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Aix-en-Provence. Visit the iconic Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture. Stop by the Cours Mirabeau, a picturesque tree-lined avenue, and enjoy a coffee at one of the charming cafes.

As the day ends, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and savor Provençal cuisine. It's the perfect start of your French adventure!

Day 2: Discover Les Baux-de-Provence

On your second day, head to the medieval village of Les Baux-de-Provence, perched high on a rocky plateau with stunning views of the Alpilles region. This charming village, with its narrow streets and rich history, has been inhabited since around 6000 BC.

The village is home to numerous historical landmarks, with 22 officially recognized as Historic Monuments. Take time to explore the ancient castle ruins. 

Don’t miss the Carrieres de Lumieres, a former limestone quarry now transformed into an immersive art experience with captivating projections. This attraction is a favorite among art lovers and history buffs. 

Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll through the village, soaking in the medieval atmosphere and taking in the panoramic vistas.

Day 3: Luberon Villages and Lavender Fields

On day 3, visit the picturesque Luberon Valley, famous for its charming villages and stunning lavender fields. Start your day in Gordes, a breathtaking village known for its unique architecture and scenic beauty and especially photogenic at twilight.

Next, visit Roussillon, a village known for its vibrant buildings in shades of orange, pink, and red. Take a hike along the Ochre Trail for spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Another must-see is Bonnieux, a village offering quaint cafes, souvenir shops, and a local market where you can dive into the local culture.

For nature enthusiasts, the highlight of the day will undoubtedly be the lavender fields in the Luberon Valley, especially around Valensole. Early July is the prime time to visit, as the lavender is in full bloom. 

If you're keen on visiting lavender fields, perhaps our custom-made trip to the fields is for you.

Day 4: Calanques National Park and Cassis

Day 4 takes us to the natural beauty of Calanques National Park and the town of Cassis. Found between Marseilles and Cassis, this park is well-known for its cliffs plummeting into the Mediterranean Sea. 

Start your day with a hike along one of the many trails available; there are beautiful lookouts of the calanques and hidden coves. For a different perspective, take a boat tour to explore the stunning calanques by sea. Many tours visit areas perfect for swimming and snorkeling, allowing visitors to see the calanques from inside the clear waters.

After enjoying the park, visit the small fishing town of Cassis. This charming little village has a sandy beach and offers boat tours that provide breathtaking coastal views. Wander around the small streets, shop in some of the local boutiques, and have lunch in one of the tiny seafood restaurants along the waterfront.

Day 5: Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Day 5 will be your opportunity to immerse yourself in the artistic and historical atmospheres of Saint-Paul-de-Vence  and the elegant Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. Boasting breathtaking views over the Mediterranean coastline and winding stone streets, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is known for its vibrant art scene.

Start your day by exploring a walled medieval fortress with panoramic views of both the countryside and the sea. The village's charm is enhanced by fabulous food, local cafés, and boutiques offering a true taste of Provençal life. 

Next, visit the resplendent Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, surrounded by beautiful gardens. The villa is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, with an entrance fee of US$15. The gardens are a highlight, featuring various themed sections that offer a peaceful escape and plenty of photo opportunities.

Day 6: Beaches and coastal towns

Day 6 is all about enjoying the stunning beaches and coastal towns of the French Riviera. Your first day, starts in Villefranche-sur-Mer, a picturesque old town with great beaches. It's a perfect mix for those looking for culture as well as relaxation.

Drive to Antibes next, a coastal town with a historic architecture and the luxurious Port Vauban, which houses numerous yachts. Wander through the old town, visit local markets, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this charming town. 

Visiting the beaches, historic towns, and vibrant coastal life, day 6 offers a quintessential French Riviera experience. 

Day 7: Final day in Nice

End your adventure in Nice, a city that perfectly encapsulates the charm of the Provence and the Riviera. Begin your day with a stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais.

Next, head to Castle Hill for a vantage point that offers panoramic views of Nice and historical remnants to explore. Don’t forget to visit Fenocchio’s gelateria in Place Rossetti Square, renowned for its incredible variety of ice cream flavors.

As your journey comes to an end, make your way to Nice Airport to fly home or continue your trip in France.

Looking for more vacation ideas in France? Check out our 7-day France itinerary - you might like it!

Where to stay in Provence and the French Riviera

Finding the perfect place to stay is key to enjoying your south of France itinerary. There are a dozens of options to stay.

• Aix-en-Provence: consider mid-range options like Séjours & Affaires Aix-en-Provence Mirabeau, or indulge in luxury at La Maison d’Aix, blending comfort with historic charm. These accommodations provide a great base for exploring the vibrant city and its surroundings.
• Cassis: this town offers a variety of lodging choices, from the mid-range Hotel Les Volets Rouges to the luxurious Hôtel Les Roches Blanches. Each option provides stunning views and easy access to local attractions, making it a perfect choice for a relaxing stay.
• Nice: you have a range of choices from luxury hotels along the waterfront to boutique options and budget-friendly rentals, ensuring you find the perfect place to call home during your visit.

Make sure to read all about the best areas to stay in Nice.