Top 5 Things To Do in Provence
Provence as a Tourist Destination
To Vincent Van Gogh, Provence may have seemed like one of God’s most beautiful paintings. The flowering fields of this land are said to be graced by the presence of Mary Magdalene, who is believed to have lived here for some time. The breathtaking beauty can seldom be described with mere words, as it is more like a feeling that you should imbibe. Walking by the endless array of colorful lavender fields is one of the most amazing things to do in Provence!
If you would ever feel that a place is like heaven on earth, witnessing the beauty of Provence, you may finally find your tidings. From tranquil small town medieval villages to relaxing in serene seashores, there are so many memories of a lifetime that you finally make in this part of France. Let your tidings be of peace and harmony as you try the rose wine. These are among the best dry wines on earth, identified by a pale pink hue and crisp, fruity notes. Local grape varieties include the Grenache, Cinsault, Mourvedre, and Tibouren.
The town of Arles is made famous by the painter who drew Starry Night! You can see the paintings come alive even today as the town of Arles has practically remained unchanged over the years. You can also visit the town of Avignon to see the Pope’s Palace and visit the cathedral. For a true discovery of Provence, you must plan a trip to Les Baux de Provence, a medieval village with stunning panoramic views of the hills. In this town, you can also visit the perpetual art show at an abandoned rock quarry cave. The Les Carrieres de Lumieres show is accompanied by beautiful music, making it even more special. If you love to explore more about the historical heritage of France, plan a trip to the villages of Gordes & Roussillon.
Things To Do in Provence
1. Explore the Lavender Fields of Valensole
Have you noticed ‘love’ spelled out in Valensole? If you haven’t felt love yet, you must visit the ecstatic Valley of the Sun’ where your vision is delimited by an endless array of purple lavender. As fast as your eyes can see, you can sense the brushstrokes of soul in your heart as the lavenders welcome you.
To set out on the best places to visit in France, Valensole shines like a jewel in the crown of nature! Hop on a bicycle and take the trip to Puimoisson from Valensole, only to be greeted with mile after mile of breathtaking floral beauty. It’s like wading by a sea of flowers in an endlessly beautiful dream. The lonely tree in the midst of the field and the backdrop of the faraway mountains create the most beautiful moments. On the road to Manosque from Valensole, you can also find a sunflower field juxtaposed with the lavender.
2. Wander Through the Luberon Villages
“Archaic, if you must, said God to Provence, or so be it! To see Provence is also to understand how Christendom has retained its medieval sameness in Luberon. The villages after villages seem to be out of a fairytale setting, where life is different from the city. This difference, by itself, is something so serenely presented that you would wish to spend a few days in a village. Visiting Luberon should be the highlight of all things to do in Provence, just because it’s so mysterious.
For a city person, coming to Luberon may feel like an entirely different world. The villages have their customs, legends, and myths safely guarded by the people who have lived here for generations. People say Gourdes and Roussillon are the best places for painters, just as Lourmarin is the best place for a writer’s retreat. Some villages have castles; others have beautiful churches and chapels. Indeed, visiting the beautiful village churches can be a lovely experience, a spiritual retreat nonetheless.
3. Discover Roman History in Arles and Nîmes
To visit Provence is also to discover the intersection of Roman heritage with medieval France. For an explorer of history, a visit to Arles can be like returning to ancient Rome, as it was in a small village in France. Usually, your journey should begin at Nimes, for more of Rome, and follow it up by a forty-minute southeast drive to discover Arles. The old Roman arena still works as a venue for music concerts.
The most famous attraction is the Le Pont du Gard. This is an ancient three-tiered water transportation system and is remarkably well-preserved even to this day. You should also pay a visit to the Diana Temple for a moment with the Goddess! Spring season is considered the best time to visit Provence, with lovely floral blooms everywhere. You should also visit the Coliseum in Arles village, which is considered even better than that in Rome. The town’s museum is a must-go when you need a deeper historical background of the ruins.
4. Indulge in Aix-en-Provence's Markets and Culture
Aix-en Provence is homely and welcoming to visitors. One of the best ways to mingle with local life is to visit the lovely markets in the region. Life in Provence moves at a leisurely pace, and market cafes are the best places to relax. These markets are great places to get a souvenir for your travels, but you need to be careful about the price. Tourist-oriented prices can be higher, so your best bet is to shop with a local guide. The Place de Verdun is the best place for crafts and antiques, and it is open on every alternate day starting from Tuesdays.
Also, remember to visit Place de l’Hotel de Ville if you love to be surrounded by flowers everywhere! For many tourists, these markets are among the best tourist attractions in France just because they are so vibrant. Cours Mirabeau is also a great place to shop, especially for clothing items and craftworks. When you visit, look for a good Patisserie and try the delicious French pastries.
5. Cruise the Calanques of Cassis
The French Mediterranean coast in Provence presents a remarkable natural experience known as the Calanques. Cruise boats take you within coves surrounded by majestic white cliffs, creating a solemn ambience that is almost overwhelming. The journey usually starts at Cassis and extends up to 20 km to Marseilles. Port Miou is the most recommended destination when you are starting, but you can also make longer trips to Port-Pin and En-Vau. Besides taking a cruise, you can also opt for fantastic hiking trails and even rock-climbing opportunities.
The region also encompasses the protected National Park, a place of extraordinary beauty. The park has several Calanques, each casting a spell of extraordinary beauty. Visiting this region is one of the best aspects of exploring Provence as a tourist destination. Deep inside, Provence feels like a divine experience, and you might just be able to feel the soul of Great France speaking to your heart. The discoveries in Provence can be profound, whether you seek a natural wonder or even a miracle in your life.
