8 Top Things to Do in Provence, France: Land of Lavender Fields

The top 8 things to do in Provence, one of the most beautiful places in the world. It is a region of Southeastern France between Italy and the Mediterranean Sea. It is often known for its beautiful and magnificent vineyards to ancient olive groves. Additionally, you can also experience fragrant lavender fields, Southern Alps, and pine forests to Camargue plains. Provence is pretty large with several cities and towns, the region experiences mild winters, dry and hot summers. It is a perfect year-round destination as it experiences more than 300 days of sunshine every year. April to May, September to October is said to be the most pleasant time of the year to visit. Since the crowds start to die down. Although Provence is known to be quite expensive, there are some breathtaking activities that you can for free.

8 Best Things to Do in Provence

1. Lavender Fields
2. Ancient Roman sites
3.  Cours Mirabeau
4.  Taste wine at Musée du Vin
5.  Catch a festival
6. Go village hopping
7. Pont d’Avignon (Saint-Bénézet)
8. Hike through the Gorges du Verdon

1.Lavender Fields

Nothing represents the appeal of Provence more than the purple rows of Lavender that blossoms every summer. The Lavender fields would be everything and more of what you were imagining. It is a beautiful scene to the eye and it smells divine. We have all seen the classic photo of a person walking through the breathtaking purple rows, and we all dream of that perfect Instagram pic. However, to see the Lavender fields in full effect, you will have to visit between June and August. If you are not visiting that period, no need to worry. You would still be treated to a beautiful countryside view.

2. Ancient Roman Sites

The finest collection of Roman remains in France today are to be found throughout Provence. In fact, the name ‘Provence’ is of Roman origin as it was the first Province to be set up under the roman empire. Many of the Romans’ most formidable sites can still be seen today in Provence. Some of the must-visit spots would be Nîmes, Pont du Gard, Arles, Maison Carrée in Nimes, Orange, and one of the wealthiest cities in Roman Provence the Vaison-la-Romaine. While the most famous of Provence’s Roman ruins, the Pont du Gard has an admission fee.

3.Cours Mirabeau

You can have a stroll at Cours Mirabeau, it is one of the most popular and liveliest places in town, there are several cozy cafes along the road. It is very beautifully decorated with several fountains, the most notable one being the Fontaine de la Rotonde. If you are seeking elegance and beauty this is the place for you, it is often called the mini Paris. Though being this famous, it is not crowded with many attractions. Make sure to visit on a leisure day to just stroll through the streets in the late afternoon and evening with a coffee in hand and a beautiful view.

4.Taste wine at Musée du Vin

The Musée du Vin corroborates the richness and diversity of the French craft of winemaking, through exposure to tools and objects, used to work the grapevine and the wine. The BROTTE Wine Museum offers you a unique and educational visit, revealing all the secrets of the wine-growing and the renown of Chateauneuf-du-Pape and other wine varieties of the great Rhone Valley region.

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5. Catch a festival

From March to September, Provence throws countless festivals that are free and open to the public. If you enjoy a good music festival make sure to check out the Festival D’Avignon (film and theater), Festival d’Aix (opera), Les Suds in Arles (world music), Fêtes d’Arles (theater and music), and the Fête des Guardians in the Camargue, etc.

6. Go village-hopping

To experience provincial life, you can explore the less discovered towns and villages in Provence. It is an experience like no other, getting to experience authentic provincial beauty like no other that has inspired artists for decades. Most of the best villages in Provence are located in Luberon. Some of which are, ROUSSILLON ( one of France’s most beautiful villages), OPPÈDE-LE-VIEUX ( the village is authentic and wonderfully preserved in its appearance), GOULT, LACOSTE, etc.

7. Pont d’Avignon (Saint-Bénézet)

The Pont Saint-Bénézet, or also known as the Pont d’Avignon, is a famous bridge in the town of Avignon, in southern France. The bridge used to be the only point to cross the Rhône between Lyon and the Mediterranean sea. Although Palais des Papes is not free, the bridge still is. However, only four arches of the bridge remain standing to date. Even though the bridge does not lead anywhere now or cross the bridge it is still one of the most famous attractions, it even has a song dedicated to it.

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8. Hike through the Gorges du Verdon

 The Gorges du Verdon, which is often compared to the grand canyon is one the most spectacular trail carved by the Verdon river. There are several ways to experience the gorges, like taking a paddleboat or kayak on the water, a 3-day hike, or even spending the day driving the 85 miles around the gorge. The hike is the most famous activity to do among many tourists and even the locals, it takes about 3 days to complete the hike. The last day of the hike is the famous Blanc-Martel trail named after two explorers. We recommend you to do this trail in the Fall when the colors are mind-blowing.

France as we all know is a beautiful place to visit, but Provence is an underrated place. Provence is known for being expensive to explore, but not to worry. The top 8 things to do in Provence for free, will give you the best experiences without having to compromise on your budget. If this is something you have to do for a while, no is your chance to finally take the well-deserved trip. Reach out to us on Pickyourtrail and we will help you plan the perfect France tour package. In the meanwhile, you can also customise your own France itinerary.