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Enchanting Provence: A 10-Day Road Trip

For 9-Nights (or more): Experience the Magic of Southern France.

Road Trip

Trip Code: #10394

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Road TripTrip Code: #10394

Best Price Guarantee

Customize and Book with an Expert

(857) 214-2664

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Day By Day Itinerary

10-days itinerary trip visiting 1 country and 6 cities

Day 1Welcome to Marseille
Welcome to France! Upon your arrival in Marseille, the second-largest city in the country, pick up your rental car at the airport and make your way to your accommodation.

After checking in, you'll be free to explore for the remainder of the day:

The oldest city in France has over 2,000 years of history, so there's plenty to explore. Any of Marseille's many ancient neighborhoods, such as the Le Panier quarter, is a wonderful place to start. This is the location of the city's origin, or "old Marseille". The fifth-century Saint-Victor Abbey and the Romano-Byzantine Notre-Dame de la Garde are noteworthy attractions. You can also stroll to Fort Saint-Jean, a 1660 stronghold constructed by Louis XIV that dominates the port. If you're interested in culture, you should visit the intriguing Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MuCEM), which displays the historical development of local societies throughout antiquity. Consider concluding your self-guided tour in the city's center, Vieux-Port, where you may enjoy a nice beer or pastis (an apéritif laced with anise) as the sun sets.
Day 2Drive to Les Baux-de-Provence
Suggestion for the day: From the Azure Calanques to Medieval Les Baux (A Day of Contrasts)

We advise you to arrange a boat trip to Calanques National Park today. This is one of the more recent protected areas on the European continent; it was created in 2012 and covers 323 square miles (520 km) between Marseille and the coastal town of La Ciotat, safeguarding both land and sea. The best way to see this is by boat; it's a natural jewel of the French Mediterranean coast.

Later, depart from Marseille and travel two hours north to Les Baux, situated in the center of the well-known Provence area. This medieval-era village in the mountains is famous for its cobblestone streets, and fortified Château des Baux, built in the tenth century.

After checking into your accommodation, you can visit a neighboring limestone quarry and immerse yourself in the Carrière de Lumières. 100 projectors are used in this one-of-a-kind art installation to project life-size images of well-known artists, such as Claude Monet and Vincent van Gogh, across the quarry walls.
Day 3Les Baux-de-Provence
Suggestion for the day: Provencal Countryside (Olive Groves, Ancient Castles, and Rural Charm)

On the 3rd day of your road trip adventure, we suggest you explore the Provence's countryside. Known for its lavender fields, historic villages, and green, vine-covered hills, Provence is a little slice of heaven in the south of France. Feel the region at its best and visit Moulin Jean-Marie Cornille- Olive Press.

After returning, we suggest you go back in history, by hiking up to Château des Baux. This 10th-century castle is strategically positioned on a rocky outcrop overlooking the town. Once at the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views. If you are up for it you can also climb up the tower, for even better views of Baux.
Day 4Drive to Avignon
Suggestion for the day: Avignon Awaits (Palaces, Bridges, and Vineyard Discoveries)

Today you will get back on the road and drive 40 minutes north from Baux to Avignon. This medieval town is full of rich history to discover. It is best known for being the seat of the Catholic popes in the 14th century. Settle into your accommodation and discover the largest Gothic palace in history, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After, you can walk around Avignon’s memorable squares and the medieval bridge over the Rhône. In summer - specifically in July, Avignon hosts France’s largest art festival. If you are a wine lover, we suggest you drive through the countryside north of Avignon to Châteauneuf du Pape, a famous wine-producing village.
Day 5Avignon
Suggestion for the day: Luberon’s Hidden Gems (Iconic Villages and Verdant Views)

It’s time to explore more of Provence’s enchanting villages. Not to miss is a fertile Luberon area. It is renowned for its scenic beauty, which includes rolling hills, forests, and olive groves, all situated around the towering Luberon massif. A good place to start is Fontaine de Vaucluse, a storybook mountain village home to the largest natural spring in France.

Afterward, you can drive to Gordes, a hilltop village surrounded by lavender fields, followed by a visit to the ancient Sénanque Abbey, founded in 1148 by Cistercian monks. Next, head to the village of Roussillon, located on hills that shine yellow, orange, and red. You can wander the town's colorful, centuries-old streets or opt for a horse-drawn carriage ride in the nearby hills before returning to Avignon.
Day 6Drive to Manosque
Suggestion for the day: Haute-Provence Adventure (From Lush Landscapes to Historic Towns)

Time to hit the road again! Say goodbye to Avignon in the morning and drive east 2.5 hours to Alpes de Haute-Provence. This geographically diverse area straddles both the French Alps and the hills and plateaus of Provence. During a drive around the area, you can visit its many highlights.

Stop in Manosque to settle into your hotel and consider booking a tour of L’Occitane headquarters. Following the tour, trek up to Mont d'Or for panoramic views over the town and countryside.

In the afternoon you can drive to Forcalquier, which is the town which has a lot of rich history to offer. You can visit some of the many well-preserved medieval buildings dating back to the 13th and 15th centuries.

If you like, you can also drive north to the town of Sisteron and marvel at its famous Citadel. This imposing fortress is located on the banks of the Durance River and is a fine example of medieval military architecture. In the evening return to Manosque.
Day 7Drive to Gréoux-les-Bains
Suggestion for the day: Soaring Over Provence (Hot Air Balloons and Lavender Fields)

If you're feeling adventurous, we can help you book a hot air balloon tour. We promise it will be one of the highlights of the road trip. Hop in a basket and ascend high in the air, getting a bird's-eye view of the region's hilltop villages, mountain peaks, and lavender fields. We suggest you visit the “Valley of the Sun” - Valensole Plateau. It is blanketed in fields of lavender, golden wheat, and almond trees. Also a great place to take some photos, for the memories that will last forever.

Later, continue to your next destination—the village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, perched overlooking Lac de Sainte-Croix. This stunning turquoise lake is adjacent to the Gorges du Verdon (Verdon Gorges), the largest canyon in Europe. While here, you can enjoy fun activities and watersports like sailing, swimming, windsurfing, or kayaking/canoeing. If you'd rather appreciate the lake's beauty from dry land, grab a seat at a waterfront café and relax.

In the evening, drive to Greoux-led-Bains, where you will spend the night. If it is easier for you, you can check into your hotel before driving to Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon.
Day 8Drive to Aix-en-Provence
Suggestion for the day: Lake Days and City Lights (Serene Waters and Aix-en-Provence’s Allure)

If you are up for an adventure, consider a kayak/boat experience. In this case, you would drive to the Verdon Regional Natural Park. If not you can still drive back to Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon and the lake and spend a relaxing day there.

After, drive to Aix-en-Provence, your home for the next 2 days. Settle into your accommodation and start exploring this historic city centered around Provençal villages and stunning countryside famous for its vineyards.
Day 9Aix-en-Provence
Suggestion for the day: A Day in Aix-en-Provence (Art, Architecture, and Culinary Arts)

Aix-en-Provence offers many interesting experiences and spots to visit. If you enjoy cooking we suggest a food tour or a cooking class. Provence is known for its herbs de Provence, olive oil, truffles, figs, honey and more.

If you are not up for a culinary adventure, venture to explore the city. Discover its hidden decors, learn about its prestigious past, its architecture, its heritage, and its monuments, enter its private mansions, enjoy surprising anecdotes, walk in the steps of Cezanne…You can visit one of France’s finest museums - The Granet Museum is classified as one of the finest in France. It is situated in the former Palace of Malta, and contains collections of works from the 14th to the 20th century, by Rembrandt, Ingres, Cezanne, and the “Cezanne à Giacometti” donation. Since it reopened in 2006 it has hosted major international exhibitions: the Cezanne Exhibition in 2006, From Picasso to Cezanne…Not far from the bustle of the city center, surrounded by French-style gardens, the Vendôme Pavilion is in one of the loveliest “follies” (pleasure houses) remaining from the 17th century. This place of peace and beauty reflects the splendor and fine living of bygone days.
Day 10Drive to Marseille & Return Flight Home
Au Revoir Provence: Final Memories and Marseille Departure

It's time to say goodbye to Provence and France. Drive back to Marseille and the airport. The drive from Aix-en-Provence will take you roughly 40 minutes. There, return your rental car and board your flight home. This concludes your grand road trip adventure. Au revoir!

Itinerary presented is a suggestion and the length of stay may vary. All tours are suggestions unless clearly stated.

Why We Love This Deal

Customizable Adventure: Enjoy the liberty to explore Provence at your own pace. With all accommodations and flights arranged, you can focus on creating a journey that matches your interests, whether that’s diving into the island's rich history, lounging on sun-kissed beaches, or discovering hidden local hotspots
Strategic Stays: We've selected accommodations in key locations across Provence, ensuring that you're ideally placed to experience the destination's best offerings.
Local Insights: Benefit from our curated list of recommendations that include must-visit sites, hidden gems, and the best dining spots. These suggestions will guide you but leave enough room for spontaneous exploration, allowing you to uncover the true spirit of Provence
Flexibility and Comfort: With logistics taken care of, you're free to indulge in the pleasures of discovery without the usual travel stresses.
Diverse Landscapes: From the rugged cliffs of the Calanques National Park to the serene lavender fields of the Luberon, Provence offers a stunning array of natural wonders. This road trip takes you through picturesque countryside, past sun-drenched vineyards, and along the sparkling Mediterranean coast, offering breathtaking views at every turn.
Rich History and Culture: Experience the depth of Provence's history as you explore ancient Roman ruins in Marseille, the medieval streets of Les Baux, and Avignon's palatial city of the Popes. Each town and village tells a story of centuries past, allowing you to step back in time and immerse yourself in Southern France's storied heritage.
Gastronomic Delights: Provence is a haven for food lovers. Sample world-renowned wines in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, savor olive oils straight from local presses, and indulge in the fresh, aromatic flavors of Provençal cuisine. From bustling market towns to quiet café terraces, each meal is an opportunity to enjoy regional specialties made with the freshest ingredients.
Artistic Inspiration: Follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh and Cézanne as you visit places that inspired their masterpieces. The region's unique light and vibrant colors have captivated artists for centuries, making it a pilgrimage site for art lovers. Explore galleries, studios, and the famous Carrière de Lumières art installation in a limestone quarry.
Relaxed Pace: Provence invites you to slow down and enjoy life's pleasures. Spend your days meandering through cobblestone streets, relaxing by azure waters, or enjoying a leisurely lunch under the shade of plane trees. This road trip is as much about embracing the laid-back Provençal lifestyle as it is about seeing the sights.
Adventure and Recreation: Whether you're hiking in the Alpilles, kayaking in the Verdon Gorge, or ballooning over the Valensole Plateau, Provence offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. The region's varied terrain and mild climate make it perfect for year-round activities.

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