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<\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\nYou could easily spend months exploring the region, but if you\u2019ve only got 5 days to a week in Provence, don\u2019t worry \u2013 I\u2019ve got you covered. This itinerary blends the best of the area: those iconic rolling lavender fields (if you\u2019re here in season), charming villages perched on cliffs, long lunches with a glass of local wine, vibrant markets, and even a taste of the coast (including <\/span>kayaking at the Calanques<\/b><\/a>). We spent a week roadtripping Provence and it was one of our best trips yet! I just loved that laid-back sensory-rich lifestyle.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s exactly how I spent my very own week in Provence, plus plenty of tips to help you craft an epic trip of your own.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Week in Provence Itinerary Logistics <\/strong><\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Where is Provence <\/strong><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Provence isn\u2019t just one town \u2013 it\u2019s an entire region in the southeast of France, tucked between the Rh\u00f4ne River and the Mediterranean Sea. It stretches from the foothills of the Alps down to the coastline of the French Riviera, which means you\u2019ll find everything from lavender fields and vineyards to sun-soaked fishing villages and seaside cliffs.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Provence](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Provence-itinerary-84.jpg\")
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<\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\nProvence is part of the larger Provence-Alpes-C\u00f4te d\u2019Azur (PACA) region, which also includes the French Riviera cities like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco, as well as the Alpine towns farther north. In terms of location, it\u2019s north of Marseille, west of the French Riviera, and just a few hours by train from Paris, making it easy to add to a France itinerary.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
The area is made up of dozens of towns and villages, each with its own character \u2013 from larger cultural hubs like Avignon and Aix-en-Provence to tiny medieval hill towns like Gordes and Roussillon, and coastal gems like Cassis. The magic of Provence is that you don\u2019t just stick to one spot \u2013 you road trip (or train hop) your way around, stringing together a mix of cities, villages, and countryside.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
How to Get to Provence <\/strong><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
For your Provence itinerary, you’ll of course need to get there first! And thankfully, getting to Provence is easier than you might think \u2013 and you have a few options depending on where you\u2019re coming from. The region is served by several airports, with Marseille Provence Airport being the biggest and most convenient for most travelers. You can also fly into Nice C\u00f4te d\u2019Azur Airport if you want to start your trip along the French Riviera, or Avignon\u2019s small airport for a quieter, more central entry point.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Provence](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Provence-itinerary-04-750x1000.jpg\")
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<\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019re coming from Paris, trains are a great option. The high-speed TGV can get you to Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, or Marseille in around 3 hours, which is perfect if you want to skip the hassle of airports and rental cars for the start of your trip. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Speaking of cars \u2013 renting a car is highly recommended if you want to explore the smaller villages and countryside, since public transport doesn\u2019t reach all the hill towns and lavender fields.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Provence is also easy to reach by car from other parts of France \u2013 it\u2019s a 2 – 3 hour drive from Lyon or Montpellier and just under 10 hours from Paris if you prefer a scenic road trip. Once you\u2019re there, having a car gives you the freedom to hop between villages, vineyards, and viewpoints at your own pace \u2013 which is honestly the best way to experience the region.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
We were coming from <\/span>Cinque Terre<\/b><\/a>, which ended up being a super long travel day. We took the train from Monterosso to Genoa (where we got some much-needed snacks), then hopped on another train from Genoa to Nice, with a short stop in Ventimiglia along the way. We finally picked up our <\/span>rental car in Nice<\/b><\/a> and finished the journey to Provence. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Provence](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Provence-itinerary-135.jpg\")
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<\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\nIt took over eight hours, multiple train changes, and a 2 hour drive. Combining Cinque Terre with my Provence itinerary and the French Riviera probably wasn\u2019t the best idea I\u2019ve ever had, but hey \u2013 we made it work! Just know it can be done!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
How to Get Around Provence <\/strong><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Renting a Car<\/strong><\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n
As I noted above, <\/span>renting a car<\/b><\/a> is by far the easiest way to explore Provence, especially if you wanna hit the hilltop villages, lavender fields, and vineyards at your own pace. I mean, it\u2019s a Provence road trip afterall! Driving gives you the freedom to wander down winding country roads, stop at viewpoints, and explore towns that aren\u2019t easy to reach by public transport. Honestly, it\u2019s one of the best ways to experience the region.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Provence](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Provence-itinerary-106-750x1000.jpg\")
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<\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe beauty of Provence is that you don\u2019t just stay in one place. Instead, you hop around, exploring one postcard-perfect town after another, which makes it the perfect destination for a road trip.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psst \u2013 <\/span>I like to search this site<\/b><\/a> to see what supplier has the best deal going on. Also, remember to double check if the car is manual or automatic transmission \u2013 many cars in Europe are manual. They\u2019re typically less expensive than renting an automatic, but only rent one if you can actually drive one!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Driving in Provence:<\/b> Roads in Provence are generally well-maintained, but many of the smaller villages have narrow, cobblestone streets and limited parking, so be prepared to park outside the center and walk in. Roundabouts are common, and locals drive fast, so a little patience goes a long way. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
There were a few moments when we drove down really tiny, winding streets (like crazy narrow), and we honestly weren\u2019t sure we\u2019d make it through. My husband handled all the driving on our Provence road trip \u2013 and let\u2019s just say I\u2019m really glad he\u2019s a better driver than I am!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Guided Day Tours<\/strong><\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Provence](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Provence-itinerary-50-750x1000.jpg\")
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<\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\nDon\u2019t wanna rent a car? No problem \u2013 you can still see plenty of this Provence itinerary. Base yourself in a larger town like Aix-en-Provence (my choice) or Avignon and book guided day tours. These tours often cover multiple villages or scenic routes, such as lavender fields during the blooming season.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many tours also include wine tastings, local markets, or historical sites, providing a comprehensive experience without the need for a car. Definitely book in advance if you\u2019re visiting during high season (these tours are popular for a reason!). <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s a few guided day tours that I would have booked if we didn\u2019t rent a car:<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n
- From Aix-En-Provence: Luberon Hilltop Villages Half Day Tour<\/b><\/a><\/li>
- From Aix-en-Provence: Cassis Boat Ride & Provence Wine Tasting Day Tour<\/b><\/a><\/li>
- From Aix-en-Provence: Verdon & Moustiers-Sainte-Marie Full-Day<\/b><\/a><\/li>
- From Avignon: Best of Luberon Guided Tour<\/b><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Trains and Regional Buses<\/strong><\/b>
<\/strong>
There\u2019s also trains and regional buses connecting the larger towns, which work well if you\u2019re sticking mostly to cities and a few nearby villages.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n- ZOU! Regional Bus Network<\/b><\/a>: Operated by the Provence-Alpes-C\u00f4te d’Azur Region, ZOU! offers extensive bus services connecting towns and villages across the region. These buses are ideal for reaching destinations not served by trains. <\/span><\/li>
- TER Sud Provence-Alpes-C\u00f4te d’Azur<\/b><\/a>: The regional train network, known as TER (Transport Express R\u00e9gional), connects major cities like Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, and Nice. These trains are convenient for intercity travel and accessing nearby towns. <\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
But to be completely honest, a Provence road trip really is the way to go. I\u2019d only opt for day tours and public transit if driving is definitely not a possibility. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
When to Plan Your Provence Itinerary <\/strong><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Provence-itinerary-13-750x1000.jpg\")
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<\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\nSpring (March – May):<\/b> Spring is a beautiful time to visit if you want mild weather and fewer crowds. Daytime temperatures usually range from 55\u201370\u00b0F (13\u201321\u00b0C), perfect for exploring villages and countryside without the summer heat.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Summer (June – August):<\/b> Summer is peak season in Provence, and LAVENDER season (typically from late June to mid July)! Daytime highs can reach 85\u201395\u00b0F (29\u201335\u00b0C), especially inland, so be prepared for intense heat (and slather on that sunscreen). Coastal areas along the French Riviera are slightly cooler (hooray!) but busier (womp womp).<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
A note on lavender season:<\/b> If seeing lavender fields is a priority during your week in Provence (like it was for me!), aim for late June through mid July, depending on the year. The most famous fields are around Valensole Plateau, Luberon, and Sault, so plan your route accordingly. Depending on the heat, some lavender fields will be harvested earlier than others, so you may need to drive around to find patches still in bloom.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
For reference, I planned our Provence itinerary for early July and had really great weather! Yes, it was hot, especially inland, and we unfortunately came across a lot of bees at our hotel pools, but it didn\u2019t stop us from enjoying the sun-soaked afternoons, relaxing by the pool, and exploring nearby villages. And it was peak lavender season, meaning tons of time in the fields and lots of lavender ice cream!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Provence](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Provence-itinerary-33.jpg\")
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<\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\nFall (September – October):<\/b> I kinda wish we visited in early fall (although I am glad we got to see the stunning lavender fields). Temps range from 65\u201380\u00b0F (18\u201327\u00b0C), still warm enough for outdoor meals and wine tasting, while the crowds thin out and vineyards are busy with harvest season.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Winter (November – February): <\/b>Winters are quiet and peaceful. Daytime highs usually sit around 50\u201360\u00b0F (10\u201316\u00b0C), while nights can drop into the 30s\u201340s\u00b0F (0\u20135\u00b0C). It\u2019s too cold for lavender or beach days, but perfect for exploring villages and cultural sites without the crowds, plus accommodations are often cheaper.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Is a week in Provence enough?<\/strong><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
I certainly think so! Our Provence itinerary was exactly a week, and we were able to visit half a dozen villages and charming cities, go market shopping, run through the lavender fields, go paddleboating on the stunning Verdon Gorge, and eat to our hearts\u2019 content. I was satisfied with our time there and don\u2019t feel like we missed anything major. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Provence-itinerary-161.jpg\")
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<\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe region is much larger than most people realize (with over 400 towns\/villages), so don\u2019t expect to visit each and every one with only a week in Provence. You\u2019ll likely need over a month to even scratch the surface! I\u2019ve included the ones we visited, but just know there are SO many Provence itinerary iterations you\u2019ll come across on your research. I recommend a combination of small towns and larger cities so you don\u2019t get bored, and of course a little time on the Mediterranean (my favorite)! <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you want to shorten this Provence road trip to 5 days, I\u2019d stick to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and L\u2019Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (and the areas nearby). This gives you a perfect balance of nature, countryside drives, and charming villages, without feeling rushed.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
But I really recommend a full week in Provence so you can add Cassis at the end for a taste of the Mediterranean, cliffside views, and a few relaxing beach or harbor hours!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Where to Stay in Provence <\/strong><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Choosing a home base for your Provence itinerary really depends on the kind of trip you want to have \u2013 whether you\u2019re chasing villages, vineyards, or the coast. One of the joys of Provence is that you don\u2019t have to stay in just one place, and splitting your time between a couple of towns makes a road trip much easier.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Provence-itinerary-73-750x1000.jpg\")
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<\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\nI recommend splitting up your week in Provence into 2-3 bases from which you can explore the region. This makes it easy to see a mix of villages, countryside, and even the coast without feeling like you\u2019re spending all your time in the car (the absolute worst).<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some hotels are absolutely gorgeous, and come with a hefty price tag. I recommend thinking about how much time you wanna enjoy the hotels, or if you\u2019d rather be out exploring. We stayed in modest places for this trip, but I think I\u2019d prefer splurging a bit more next time and give us time to soak in the charm and relax.<\/span> This trip was very go-go-go, and while I’m glad we got to see and do so much, sometimes our bodies just crave rest (at a nice hotel with a stunning pool, haha)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For our 7-day Provence road trip, we stayed in three separate areas and took day trips from each:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Moustiers-Sainte-Marie<\/b><\/a>: Perfect if you want to wake up to lavender fields and hilltop village views. Staying here gave us that quintessential Provence experience, though accommodations are usually smaller boutique hotels or guesthouses rather than large resorts (which is totally cool with me!).<\/span>
- La Ferme Rose-H\u00f4tel de Charme<\/b><\/a> (the pool looks divine and fantastic service)<\/span><\/li>
- Hotel Le Colombier<\/b><\/a> (a true Provencal house with a swim spa, 2 hot tubs, and even tennis courts)<\/span><\/li>
- La Bouscati\u00e8re<\/b><\/a> (elegant accommodations right in town with with a garden, sun terrace, and infinity swimming pool)<\/span> <\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Hotel Le Colombier<\/b><\/a> (a true Provencal house with a swim spa, 2 hot tubs, and even tennis courts)<\/span><\/li>
- La Ferme Rose-H\u00f4tel de Charme<\/b><\/a> (the pool looks divine and fantastic service)<\/span><\/li>
- TER Sud Provence-Alpes-C\u00f4te d’Azur<\/b><\/a>: The regional train network, known as TER (Transport Express R\u00e9gional), connects major cities like Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, and Nice. These trains are convenient for intercity travel and accessing nearby towns. <\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- From Aix-en-Provence: Cassis Boat Ride & Provence Wine Tasting Day Tour<\/b><\/a><\/li>
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