Planning a trip to southern France and want to spend 3 days in Provence? This Provence itinerary covers how to spend 3 days exploring Avignon, Saint Remy de Provence, Gordes, Aix en Provence and more!
When you think of Provence, fields of lavender, rolling hills and picturesque hilltop villages probably come to mind. That’s exactly what I had been dreaming of when I started to plan my 3 days in Provence itinerary.
And guess what? My fiancé and I had such an incredible time in Provence that we decided to get married there this year!
Here’s how to spend 3 days in Provence, France!
About Provence
Provence is a region located in southeastern France, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the south and the Rhone River to the west. It’s known for its natural beauty, charming towns, and rich history and culture.
The landscape is characterized by lush rolling hills, fields of lavender, olive groves, and vineyards. And in the summer, the unmistakable song of the cicadas can be heard all around. Sounds like a scene from a fairytale, right?
Provence has a rich history that dates back to the Roman times — which can be seen throughout the region’s historic landmarks, including medieval castles, Roman ruins (even a Roman amphitheater!), and Gothic cathedrals.
Along with its natural beauty and fascinating history, Provence is also famous for its cuisine, which features fresh, local ingredients like olives, herbs (yep, you’ve probably heard of Herbs de Provence!), and fresh vegetables.
Also, the region is particularly known for its rosé wine, which is produced in the vineyards that dot the hillsides. Nothing quite like a refreshing glass of rosé while wine tasting on a hot summer day!
How To Get to Provence
There are several ways to get to Provence, depending on where you are coming from and your preferred mode of transportation. Here are some options:
By Train: The TGV (France’s high-speed train) connects many major cities in France with Avignon and Aix-en-Provence. There are also regional trains that connect smaller towns in Provence. The train is a comfortable and convenient way to travel, and you can enjoy beautiful views of the countryside along the way.
By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and drive to your destination in Provence. The roads in Provence are generally well-maintained, and driving allows you to explore the region at your own pace. However, be aware that traffic can be heavy in some areas during peak travel times.
By Bus: There are also several bus companies that operate in Provence, such as Flixbus and Ouibus. Buses are generally cheaper than trains, but they can be a bit slower and less comfortable.
By Air: The main airport serving Provence is the Marseille Provence Airport which has direct flights throughout Europe including major cities like Paris, London, Amsterdam and Rome. Another option is the Nice Cote d’Azur Airport which is about 2 hours from Provence.
In my experience, flying into the Marseille Provence airport and renting a car is the easiest option. Flights to Marseille from other European destinations tend to be pretty inexpensive as well, especially on low-cost airline carriers like Ryanair or EasyJet.
The Nice Cote d’Azur Airport is also a good option if you plan to explore Provence on a larger south of France itinerary — as you’ll be able to explore the gorgeous French Riviera too!
Finally, the Barcelona Airport is 5.5 hours away but makes for a nice road trip to Provence! Last summer, I flew into Barcelona and stayed for a few nights before driving to Provence. On the drive, you could stop to explore the Salvador Dali Museum in Figueres (it was a great way to break up the drive!) or enjoy the gorgeous Costa Brava coastline for a night or two.
How to Get Around Provence
There are several ways to get around Provence but renting a car and driving is by far the easiest and most convenient option. This is especially true if you want to visit small towns and rural areas that are not easily accessible by public transportation.
In fact, this 3 days in Provence itinerary is definitely best for those who plan to rent a car!
Most major rental car companies have offices at the airports and train stations in Provence. That being said, if you prefer not to rent a car, there are a couple of public transportation options that connect the larger cities and towns in Provence.
Train: The TGV train connects lots of cities in France with Avignon and Aix-en-Provence, and there are also regional trains that connect smaller towns in Provence. However, train service can be limited in some areas, and you may need to take a bus or taxi to reach your final destination from the train station.
Bus: There are several bus companies that operate in Provence, such as LER, TransVaucluse, and Cartreize. Some buses also have limited schedules so be sure to check the timetables in advance.
The Best Time to Visit Provence
Provence has a Mediterranean climate so you can expect hot summers and mild winters, and plenty of sunshine throughout the year.
The summer months of June through August are the hottest and busiest times to visit, with temperatures often reaching 86°F or higher. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are more comfortable times to visit, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter (December to February) can be quite chilly — it was in the 50s when I visited in February! — but you can expect almost no crowds.
Speaking of crowds, Provence is a top summer destination in France so there will be lots of tourists in the most popular places (like Aix-en-Provence!). If you want to avoid the crowds but still enjoy warm weather, visiting in the shoulder seasons is your best bet.
I visited in September and found that the weather was still very warm but I didn’t encounter any overcrowded towns!
Lastly, the region hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Avignon Theater Festival in July, the lavender festivals in June and July, and the Truffle Festival in November and December. If you want to attend a specific festival or event, be sure to check the dates and plan your trip accordingly.
Since Provence is known for its iconic lavender fields, many people chose to visit in June and July when the lavender is blooming. If seeing the lavender fields is on your bucket list, make sure to plan your trip during this time!
Is 3 Days in Provence enough time?
There is so much to see in Provence that it would be impossible to fit it all into just 3 days.
However, 3 days in Provence will give you a wonderful introduction to the region and you’ll be able to see some of the most popular destinations and attractions within that time frame. So, this itinerary will give you the perfect taste of Provence!
3 Days in Provence Itinerary Overview
This 3 days in Provence itinerary has all my personal picks for the best places to see in Provence, where to stay and dine, and much more.
For this trip, my visit to Provence was part of a larger road trip from Barcelona to the French Riviera. Since I was coming from Barcelona, it made the most sense to begin in Avignon and end in Aix-en-Provence before heading to the Cote d’Azur.
For my time in Provence, I based myself in Avignon since it’s one of the larger and centrally located cities but you could easily base yourself closer to Saint Remy de Provence or Aix-en-Provence if you prefer!
Below is the 3 Days in Provence itinerary at a glance:
- Day 1: Pont du Gard & Avignon
- Day 2: Saint Remy de Provence, Saint-Paul-de-Mausole Monastery & Gordes
- Day 3: Aix-en-Provence
Note: I visited in September so I wasn’t able to see the lavender in bloom, however, I’ve included some stops in this itinerary where you could see lavender fields — in case you plan to visit during June or July!
Day 1: Pont du Gard & Avignon
Take a Dip at Pont du Gard
The Pont du Gard is an ancient Roman aqueduct bridge that is located about 25 minutes from Avignon.
The bridge was built in the 1st century AD, during the reign of the Roman Emperor Augustus, to carry water from a spring in Uzès to the city of Nîmes. It’s considered to be one of the greatest engineering feats of the ancient world, and it is a testament to the ingenuity of the Roman engineers who built it.
It’s over 2,000 years old and still standing!
Today, the Pont du Gard is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction. The area around the bridge has been designated as a protected natural site and is a popular destination for hiking, picnicking, and swimming.
Visitors can explore the bridge and the surrounding area, as well as visit the museum on site to learn more about the history and construction of the bridge.
If you’re visiting during the hot summer months, swimming at Pont du Gard should be at the top of your list… It’s such a great way to cool down during the midday sun.
And floating below a Roman aqueduct is definitely something I had never done before!
Explore Avignon
As one of the largest cities in Provence, Avignon is where many people chose to base themselves while exploring the region. But whether you’re staying in Avignon or not, it’s still worth a visit to explore!
I recommend spending the afternoon wandering through the historic center. The old town of Avignon is full of narrow streets, picturesque squares, and charming buildings that date back to the Middle Ages. There are tons of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants to try, making it a great place to spend an afternoon.
One of the most popular attractions in Avignon is the Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This magnificent palace was built in the 14th century, and it served as the seat of the papacy for almost 70 years. Plan to spend about 2 hours here and book your tickets online in advance so you can skip the queue when you get there!
Dinner at La Cour d’Honneur
This quaint restaurant is set in a lovely outdoor courtyard in the center of Avignon. La Cour d’Honneur is popular with both locals and tourists for its delicious local fare and French favorites.
We loved the ambience and their dinner special – an appetizer, entree and dessert for €35!
Day 2: Saint Remy de Provence, Saint-Paul-de-Mausole Monastery & Gordes
Explore Saint-Remy-de-Provence
About 30 minutes from Avignon is Saint Remy de Provence, one of the most charming villages in Provence – and your first stop for the day!
Spend your morning wandering around its narrow maze-like streets, shopping in the boutiques or checking out some of the local art galleries.
I happened to visit St Remy on a Wednesday which meant it was market day! The market was incredibly charming and a great way to see all the local and specialty goods that Provence is known for. From olives to lavender to truffles to cheeses… it was so much fun taking in all the delicious smells and sights of the market.
Lunch at Le Bistrot de Saint-Remy
This charming bistro looks like its straight out of a postcard! Stop by Le Bistrot de Saint-Remy by for a delicious lunch where you can try classic French bistro dishes like escargot, pâté, cheese boards, and more.
Visit Saint-Paul-de-Mausole Monastery
Just a 5-minute drive from the center of St Remy is the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole Monastery.
Founded in the 11th century, this former monastery and asylum is best known as the former temporary home of the Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh.
Van Gogh voluntarily admitted himself to Saint-Paul-de-Mausole asylum in 1889, following a mental breakdown. He stayed at the monastery for a year, during which time he created some of his most famous works, including “The Starry Night” and “Irises.”
Today, Saint-Paul-de-Mausole Monastery is open to visitors as a museum and cultural center. The monastery’s chapel, cloister, and gardens have been preserved, and visitors can see reproductions of some of Van Gogh’s paintings in the rooms where he lived and worked.
The monastery is also home to a beautiful lavender field so it’s a great place to snap some photos if the flowers are in bloom!
Catch Golden Hour in Gordes
About 45 minutes away is one of the most beautiful hilltop towns I’ve ever seen: Gordes.
The picturesque village of Gordes is located in the famed Luberon region of Provence. It’s known for its stunning views, charming cobblestone streets, and traditional stone houses. The town is built around a rocky outcrop, which is crowned by the 11th-century castle of Gordes. From the castle, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the Luberon mountain range and the village’s terraced olive groves.
But for the very best views of Gordes, you must stop at the viewpoint on the way into town (just enter “Town View Point Gordes” into your Google maps). It’s a great place to snap some photos at golden hour!
Lavender Season Note: Your drive from Saint-Remy-de-Provence to Gordes will take you right by the Musée de la Lavande Luberon which is a great place to stop by to see some lavender fields. And once you reach the town of Gordes, the Senanque Abbey is just a 9 minutes away and is one of the most popular places to enjoy the lavender fields in bloom!
Enjoy Macarons at Ladurée
Spend the afternoon wandering through the town’s cobblestone streets, checking out the shops, or even pop by Ladurée for a macaron. While there are Ladurée shops all over France (and internationally!), I thought this little shop was so charming and I’m a sucker for a good macaron. Caramel, passion fruit, almond, and black current (called cassis in France) are my favorite flavors!
Dinner at L’Orangerie
To end our memorable day exploring Provence, we wanted to do something special for dinner… and dining at Restaurant L’Orangerie was just that!
Located at the Airelles La Bastide de Gordes hotel, L’Orangerie has an expansive terrace with spectacular views of the Luberon valley at sunset. And dining alfresco in Provence is definitely the best way to enjoy a meal on a summer night!
After having drinks on their bar terrace, we were seated for dinner and ready for a special meal. Serving Provençal style cuisine and French bistro classics, we were delighted by each dish and left full and happy after a wonderful evening.
The entire hotel is drop-dead gorgeous and I hope to come back for a stay some time. If you do plan to have dinner there, note that you can use their valet service (as cars aren’t allowed in the city center). They were nice enough to let us use their valet parking lot even though we arrived a few hours before our dinner reservation to explore the town!
Day 3: Aix-en-Provence
Explore Old Town Provence
For the last day of the 3 days in Provence itinerary, start your day early in Aix-en-Provence, a charming city known for its beautiful architecture and historic landmarks.
The town’s buildings are painted in pastel hues of yellow, orange, and pink giving it a very south of France feel.
Walking around the old town, it seemed like every street was even more colorful and charming then the next… I must’ve taken a hundred photos!
Strolling through town is the best way to see the sights. Make sure to admire the stunning 17th-century Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall) and the imposing Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur. And don’t miss walking down the Cours Mirabeau, a tree-lined boulevard with elegant 17th and 18th-century mansions, fountains, and cafes.
Visit the Market
While your exploring the Old Town, you’re more than likely to see the colorful markets of Aix-en-Provence, including the daily food market in the Old Town and the larger flower and antiques markets that take place on weekends.
Even if you’re not shopping for anything, it’s fun to check out the local goods and specialty items. You can shop for everything from produce to lavender to antique books and clothing!
Lunch at Le Bistrot
While Aix-en-Provence is a bustling town with plenty of dining options, we were looking for a charming bistro a little off the beaten path… and we found just that!
Le Bistrot is an authentic bistro hidden down a little alleyway. Serving up classic bistro dishes like steak tartare, duck confit, and foie gras, this spot is perfect for French food lovers.
Tour Cézanne’s Studio
About a 15-minute walk from the Old Town area, you can visit the studio where the famous painter Paul Cézanne lived and worked. The studio has been preserved as it was during Cézanne’s lifetime, and you can see his original painting materials and personal belongings. A great stop for art enthusiasts!
Other Destinations in Provence
I thought our 3 days in Provence itinerary was perfect for us — we saw some incredibly beautiful highlights of Provence without having to do too much driving or packing too much in. That being said, there are still tons of other beautiful places in Provence to explore. So, if you have more time to explore the region, here are some other destinations that are worth visiting!
Les Baux de Provence
This medieval village is perched on a rocky outcrop and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Located between Saint Remy de Provence and Arles, it’s a popular day trip to see the ruins of the Château des Baux and the Eglise St Vincent. (40 minutes from Avignon)
Arles
This history city is located on the banks of the Rhone River and is known for its history and architecture. One of the main attractions in Arles is the Roman amphitheater, which dates back to the 1st century AD and is one of the largest and best-preserved amphitheaters in the world. The city is also known for its stunning architecture, including the UNESCO-listed Romanesque cloister of Saint-Trophime, the Gothic-style Church of St. Francis of Assisi, and the 15th-century Renaissance-style Hotel de Ville. (45 minutes from Avignon)
L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
Situated on the banks of the Sorgue River, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is known for its picturesque waterways, charming architecture, and lively markets. There are even some swimming spots for those hot summer days! Another of the main attractions in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is the antique market, which takes place every Sunday and attracts visitors from all over the region. The market features a wide variety of antiques and collectibles, including furniture, art, and vintage clothing. If you do plan to visit, it’s also worth checking out nearby Fontaine-de-Vaucluse along the Sorgue river. (30 minutes from Avignon)
Lourmarin
Often considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, Lourmarin is famous for its charming narrow streets, historic buildings, and beautiful surroundings. The town is known for its thriving arts and cultural scene, with lots of galleries, artisan shops, and boutiques showcasing local crafts and products. The Friday morning market is also a popular attraction, offering visitors the opportunity to sample local produce and artisanal products. (1 hour from Avignon)
Roussillon
Located in the heart of Luberon, the charming town of Roussillon is famously painted in shades of red and orange. Visitors can explore the historic center of the village, which dates back to the 16th century, and see the beautiful church of St. Michael, which features stunning Gothic architecture. (1 hour from Avignon)
What to Pack for Provence
There you have the perfect 3 days in Provence itinerary! If you’re planning to visit more of the South of France, make sure to read my complete guide to the French Riviera.
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