The mere mention of Provence evokes picturesque images of lavender fields, sunflowers, olive groves, cicadas, vineyards, and that unique light that inspired post-impressionist artists such as Cézanne.

Travelers can follow in their footsteps, unwinding at the cafes in Aix and venturing into the countryside to discover medieval abbeys and enchanting villages amid the dramatic landscape influenced by the mistral wind.

Regardless of your preferences, there exists a list of experiences that should not be overlooked during your visit, whether it is the Papal Palace in Avignon or the stunning rocky inlets between Marseille and Cassis.

Now, let us delve into the premier attractions in Provence:

1. Pope’s Palace, Avignon

In the 14th century, this prestigious structure served as the residence for six popes, becoming the focal point of western Christianity.

It forms part of a UNESCO-listed group of buildings in Avignon and stands as one of the largest and most significant Gothic edifices worldwide.

It is essential to include this site in your itinerary if you are in the region.

The architecture, representing the pinnacle of medieval craftsmanship, highlights the luxury and grandeur experienced by the popes during their exile from the Vatican.

Visitors will have access to over 20 rooms, including Clement IV’s papal apartments, where exquisite Gothic frescoes by Matteo Giovanetti are preserved to this day.

2. Senanque Abbey, Gordes

This attraction is a must-visit between June and August when the lavender is in bloom.

If there is one sight that encapsulates everything beloved about Provence, it is the pale grey walls of this Romanesque building, framed by cypress trees and lavender fields.

Constructed in the 1100s, the abbey is typically included in lavender tours: If possible, aim to visit early, when the fields are bathed in low sunlight, and the crowds are minimal. The monks maintain the fields and also tend to honey bees.

True to the Romanesque style, the building is simple and unadorned, yet complements its vibrant surroundings beautifully.

3. Old Port of Marseille

Dating back to the 6th century BC, this site was one of ancient Europe’s key trading hubs.

What exists today, a rectangular body of water with quays on three sides, primarily dates from the 1700s.

It symbolizes Marseille, serving as a gathering place for locals, dining, and evening entertainment.

Visitors will be fascinated by the seemingly endless rows of yachts.

You can complete a circuit of the port within approximately half an hour on foot or take the ferry from the Quai du Port to Quai du Rive Neuve for a nominal fee.

The port serves a purpose beyond tourism, as fishing continues to play a vital role in the city’s economy.

On the Quai des Belges, a fish market showcases the day’s catch.

4. Gorges du Verdon

Extending for 25 kilometers through the Verdon Regional Park, this location is one of Europe’s most revered natural landscapes.

In places, this limestone canyon plunges over 700 meters deep, and as you look down at the river, you will be enchanted by its vibrant turquoise hue.

It draws sightseers from around the globe, and you need not leave your vehicle to view unforgettable sights.

However, a far more rewarding experience awaits those who do! Many visitors rent a boat for several hours, pausing to swim in the crystal-clear waters.

You can also explore the gorge on foot via a variety of hiking trails, with approximately 1,500 climbing routes available on the limestone cliffs of the valley walls.

5. Carrières de Lumières, Les Baux-de-Provence

It is likely that you have never encountered a cultural attraction quite like this.

Carrières de Lumières offers an audiovisual experience situated within the expansive, cathedral-like galleries of a former limestone quarry.

Around 100 ultra-HD projectors display images covering 6,000 square meters onto the pristine sheer walls, complemented by music and ambient sound.

The flooring is also entirely covered, with patterns that are in continual motion, akin to the walls.

The theme changes annually but remains consistently art-related.

Past exhibitions have featured the works of Pablo Picasso, Paul Cézanne, Vincent van Gogh, and Marc Chagall.

6. Vieil Aix

An authentic experience of Provence can be savored on the streets of central Aix.

Individuals passionate about French culture will feel thrilled while retracing the steps of notable figures who lived here, such as Émile Zola, Albert Camus, and Paul Cézanne.

Stroll along the Cours Mirabeau beneath the plane trees and settle into one of the myriad cafes steeped in 19th and 20th-century cultural heritage.

Make your way to the medieval cathedral, which houses tapestries dating back to the 1500s and a triptych from the 1400s depicting René of Anjou, Count of Provence until 1480.

7. Télécabine du Mont Faron, Toulon

While some of Provence’s esteemed attractions may not appeal to younger visitors, the cable car ride up Mount Faron in Toulon is an experience that everyone can appreciate.

This is the only cable car in the region, elevating visitors to 584 meters above sea level.

At the summit, the views of the port of Toulon and the iconic azure sea are unparalleled.

A small zoo, a chapel, and several dining options are available at the top.

Following your visit, you can either return via the cable car or take a scenic hike down one of the trails.

8. Parc National des Calanques

As one of France’s ten national parks, the Calanques is unique in combining coastal and inland territories.

Visitors are drawn to its rocky limestone coastline, which descends steeply into the sea and features deep inlets resembling fjords.

Hikers traverse the GR-51 to breathtaking viewpoints such as Corniche des Crêtes and Cap Canaille, with late winter and spring being the ideal times for these excursions.

This is due to the heightened fire risk in summer when some trails may be closed.

The trails can be quite challenging, prompting many to opt for a boat tour from Marseille, with views from the water often rivaling those from land.

You will be enchanted by the sight of the turquoise sea contrasting against the white limestone cliffs.

9. Musée de l’Arles et de la Provence Antiques

Arles’ museum dedicated to its ancient heritage is situated where the city’s Roman circus formerly stood.

You will depart this attraction with a deeper understanding of ancient civilization in Provence.

Among the highlights is the model of the Barbegal aqueduct and mill, where water from the aqueduct powered a flour mill via parallel sets of eight water wheels.

Additionally, Arles Rhône 3, an authentic Roman barge excavated from the Rhône in 2011, is displayed alongside its substantial cargo of amphorae.

If you have an affinity for ancient history, you may easily spend hours within this museum, exploring its galleries filled with early-Christian sarcophagi, mosaics, and sculptures.

10. Château des Baux de Provence

This fortress, perched on a rugged spur, has remained in ruins since its destruction in the 1600s.

Only crumbling towers and fragments of the chapel persist today; however, the château vividly reenacts feudal times through its impressive collection of life-sized siege engines.

Among these are a ballista (a type of giant crossbow), a mangonel (a large catapult), and the remarkable Europe’s largest trebuchet, which is launched several times daily during the summer.

Also available is a replica medieval forge, where a blacksmith demonstrates how to create swords and axes, alongside swordplay and archery exhibitions.

11. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Regarded as one of “the most beautiful villages of France,” Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is situated on rock terraces at the base of towering cliffs at the western entrance of the Verdon Gorge.

This picturesque village features a labyrinth of pedestrianized streets and a stream cascading through its center.

Those with plenty of energy can ascend the 250 steps to the chapel of Notre-Dame-de-Beauvoir.

For a souvenir, consider acquiring a piece of faience, tin-glazed pottery produced by workshops throughout the village.

To gain insight into this pottery technique, visit the museum, which exhibits how it is crafted and showcases pieces of this fine glazed pottery dating back to the 1600s.

12. Mines de Bruoux

During the peak summer months of July and August, this historic ochre mine offers a refreshing escape, maintaining a constant temperature of just 10 °C. The mine is distinguished as the only one of its kind in Europe, featuring galleries cut in a grid pattern that extend more than 50 kilometers.

Rest assured, you will not become disoriented as only 650 meters have been secured for public access.

This section is enchanting, with vaulted galleries reaching 12 meters high, all crafted between 1880 and 1950. If you have honed your French skills, consider attending an outdoor theater production on a balmy summer evening, with the mine entrance serving as a dramatic backdrop.

13. Le Thoronet Abbey

The optimal time to explore this tranquil Cistercian abbey is early in the day or late in the afternoon when it is nearly vacant, allowing even the faintest sounds to resonate within the church’s exceptional acoustics.

Moreover, if you have the opportunity, attend one of the monastic choir performances held in summer, which will transport you back to the abbey’s golden era in the 12th century.

This Romanesque and Gothic complex is nestled within dense oak woodland, characterized by its austere simplicity, reflecting the disciplined Cistercian ethos.

14. Vignoble de Provence

A number of wine regions are located within Provence, including Coteaux Varois, Cassis, Bandol, Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Côtes de Provence AOC. One notable aspect of this region is that many emerging winemakers prioritize organic production over modern cultivation techniques.

As such, you may even observe sheep grazing to control weeds or horses plowing vineyards.

This part of France is particularly renowned for its rosés, and you can immerse yourself in the culture (while avoiding the responsibility of a designated driver) by spending a night at a winemaker’s bed and breakfast to learn about the production process and indulge in a delightful meal in a beautiful environment.

15. Savonnerie Marius Fabre, Salon-de-Provence

This soap factory is currently operated by the fourth generation of the Fabre family and is among the oldest establishments in the region.

The company museum is housed in one of the factory’s former drying rooms, showcasing numerous informative panels, archival images, and vintage tools to inform visitors about one of Provence’s most quintessential industries.

Marius Fabre’s soaps are crafted using olive or coconut oil and infused with essential oils sourced from the region, such as lavender.

Conclude your visit in the shop, where you will find an exquisite selection of beautifully scented soaps, as well as eau de toilettes and fragrant candles.