Provence is a geographical region of south east France – it is also quite possibly the most irresistible part of France and certainly one of the most popular areas for visitors. Extending from the lower Rhône River to the Italian border and lapped by the Mediterranean Sea. Sunshine, snow-capped mountains, beautiful villages perched on hilltops, lavender fields, sparkling lakes, charming seaside resorts, fabulous gastronomy, luscious wine , colourful markets and the Gorges du Verdon, Europe’s greatest canyon make this one of France’s best loved holiday destinations.
The Romans were fans of the area and called it Provincia Roman. Until the late 15th Century it was ruled by the Counts of Provence from then capital, Aix-en-Provence, when it became a province of the Kings of France
Provence covers a wide area and is enormously diverse and for most people, choosing where to visit is an issue, particularly if you only have a few days. So to help, here’s our petite guide to some of our favourite places in Provence:
Aix en Provence: Beautiful old town, also known as the “City of a Thousand Fountains” with museums, fabulous markets and a large historic centre, once home to Cezanne.
Antibes: popular seaside resort on the French Riviera with 25 km (16 miles) of coastline and 48 beaches including the ever popular Juan les Pins
Arles: Centre of the Camargue, an area of great natural beauty. It is an historic city beside the river Rhone, with several major monuments including the famous Roman Amphitheatre.
Avignon: Historic walled city, UNESCO World heritage site. capital of the Vaucluse department. The famous medieval bridge over the Rhone river is immortalized in the song "Sur le pont d'Avignon". One of the best known attractions in the town is the incredible Palace of the Popes, medieval palace from which the French Popes once ruled.
Briançon: at an altitude of over 1300 metres, is the highest town in France, one of the highest in Europe and best known for its steep and narrow streets and picturesque town.
Cassis: a stunning little seaside resort surrounded by vineyards…
Eze: A 1000 year old village that lies between Monte Carlo and Nice on the French Riviera and offers stunning views from its hill top perch. Don’t miss the view from the exotic garden – it’s worth the climb...
Fréjus: A charming old town with an historic centre and big marina.
Grasse: in the hills inland from the Riviera, Grasse is the capital of the French perfume industry and you can visit a perfume museum there
Janine Marsh's top tips for Provence visits...