Off-the-Beaten-Path Villages and Sites in Provence to Add to Your Itinerary
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The iconic lavender fields of Valensole and major travel hubs like Avignon and Aix-en-Provence might be the stars of the South of France. However, it is time to shine the spotlight on some hidden gems in Provence, especially if you seek a more intimate travel experience.
The true magic of Provence lies in these hidden gems—scenic villages, cozy small towns, and beautiful spots in national parks and beyond. These locations hold the region’s rich history and culture. At the same time, it’s often these off-the-beaten-track sites in Provence that don’t make it onto the final list of places to visit.
To be fair, packing all the unique experiences in Provence into a 1- or even 2-week itinerary is challenging. The region’s diversity makes it impossible to fully explore in one brief trip. Even those who have the luxury of time for slow travel in Provence often struggle to see all the noteworthy locations—there are simply too many. However, if you’re looking to diversify your trip, we have some suggestions to help you.
For a better representation of the area, we reached out to other travelers to share their favorite unique places to visit in Provence. We are now happy to present a compelling list of the best small towns, scenic villages, and natural wonders worth exploring.
Unveiling Hidden Gems in Provence: Travel Tips and Essential
Planning a trip to Provence? Here’s a useful list of resources to help you make the most of your journey:
- Booking Airplane Tickets: A trip to Provence begins from the nearby airports of Marseilles or Nice. Get ready for your journey in advance by booking the best airplane tickets. Compare prices here.
- Booking Accommodation: Find the perfect place to stay in Provence by browsing accommodation options.
- Renting a Car: Explore the hidden gems in Provence with ease by renting a car for your travels. Find the best deals and options for your trip.
- Booking Trips and Activities: Enhance your travel experience by booking activities and tours in Provence in advance. Look for reputable tour operators and activity providers to ensure a memorable trip.
- Travel Insurance: Protect yourself and your belongings by purchasing travel insurance for your trip. Explore different insurance options to find the coverage that suits your needs. Depending on the country, you might qualify for a 5% discount on travel insurance.
Discover Medieval Charm at Les Baux-de-Provence
Recommended by Jolayne Kline of Just Wander More
Les Baux-de-Provence is nestled in the Alpilles mountain range on a rocky outcropping. It is approximately 45 miles (73 km) from Aix-en-Provence and makes a delightful day trip through the French countryside. You will want to rent a car to discover the intriguing fortress village of Les Baux-de-Provence.
The Château des Baux fortress, first established in the 10th century by the Baux family, grew to include the castle and an imposing dungeon in the 13th century. If you are exploring the hidden gems of Provence in the south of France in the fall, you may find that you have these castle ruins to yourselves!
Tip: Tickets are required and can be purchased online or in person. Beyond the castle ruins, visit the charming old town with its cobbled streets, terraces, churches and fountains.
Don’t miss the Carrières de Lumières light show in an old rock quarry on the edge of the village of Les Baux-de-Provence. The quarry offers an amazing venue to view classical artwork by Picasso and other artists.
Explore Van Gogh’s Legacy at Arles
Recommended by Lisa Garrett of Waves and Cobblestones
Arles is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a charming small town to explore in Provence.
It’s easy to add a day trip to Arles to your France itinerary, as it is only a 1-hour train ride from Marseille or 2o minutes from Avignon. From the train station, it’s an easy 10-minute walk to the historic center of Arles.
One of the top attractions in Arles is its Roman ruins, which earned the city a UNESCO World Heritage designation. Explore the Roman arena, the theater, or the thermal baths for a glimpse into Arles’ Roman history. And don’t miss the Museum of Ancient Arles and Provence, with a unique Roman barge exhibit and some stellar mosaics.
Tip: Plan to visit all the Roman sites in Arles? Save money and purchase the Arles monuments pass.
Another reason to visit Arles is to walk in the footsteps of famed painter Vincent van Gogh. Van Gogh lived in Arles, and some of his most famous works were inspired by the city – including ‘Starry Night Over the Rhone’.
For some quiet contemplation, visit the Cathédrale Saint-Trophime and the adjacent cloister. Admire the stained-glass windows and works of art decorating the cathedral.
For a sweet treat, visit Meinado Arles for a pastry or a fabulous dessert!
Marvel at the Starry Skies Over Moustiers St Marie
Recommended by Lorie of Diving Escapades
Listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is perfect for those seeking an authentic Provençal town without the crowds. Located on a hillside, the village is famous for the mysterious golden star hanging between two cliffs and its ceramics tradition.
You can drive to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie from Marseille or Nice in about two hours. The drive offers lovely views of Provence’s rolling hills and, depending on the season, lavender-filled fields. For those on a tight budget, buses connect the village to nearby towns like Riez and Manosque.
Upon arrival, you’ll find charming narrow streets filled with ceramic ateliers and cafes, set against a backdrop of old village walls. The village is known for its ceramics, and you can visit workshops to see how these beautiful pieces are made. Don’t forget to visit Notre-Dame de Beauvoir, a 12th-century chapel perched high above the village, offering amazing views.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Verdon Gorge is not to be missed. Known as the “Grand Canyon of Europe,” it offers great hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing. You can also enjoy swimming and boating at the nearby Lac de Sainte-Croix.
To make the most of your visit, try dining at local restaurants such as Le Couvert and Restaurant La Bastide de Moustiers to taste Provençal food. Staying at a bed-and-breakfast in the village will let you experience its peaceful atmosphere. With its mix of rich history and natural beauty, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is truly one of the hidden gems of Provence.
Uncover the Intriguing History of Lacoste
Recommended by Leyla of OffbeatFrance
Lacoste, a small village in Provence’s Luberon region, is known both for its tumultuous history and its cultural revival. Dominated by the imposing Château de Lacoste, the village was once home to the infamous Marquis de Sade, whose controversial legacy (he was a revolutionary and a pornographer) still intrigues visitors. Later, fashion designer Pierre Cardin bought the château and turned it into a cultural hub, with an annual music and theater festival.
The village’s medieval cobblestone streets and stone buildings contrast with the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) students, which has chosen Lacoste as its European campus, revitalizing the village and helping conserve its historic buildings, while introducing modern art galleries and fashion shops that showcase its students’ talents. The restored Maison Basse, which used to be the Marquis’ stables, now presents cultural events.
At the top of the village sits the castle, the Marquis’s silhouette decorating the entrance. Pierre Cardin renovated some of the rooms, which can be visited, but the works of art are outside, dotting the castle’s grounds and depicting aspects of the Marquis de Sade.Visitors can reach Lacoste by car, from nearby Avignon or Marseille, or in a few minutes from Bonnieux on the next hilltop across the valley. Public transportation options are limited in the area and you’ll need a car to explore.
Wander Through the Vibrant Ochre Trails of Roussillon
Recommended by Helen Wildgoose of Curious Goose Travel
Roussillon is one of the most unique and colourful places in Provence. The small town is well known for having one of the world’s largest deposits of ochre – a golden-orange clay-like material. Mining no longer takes place here, however the quarry has been opened up for visitors. Known as the Sentier des ocres, there are two short walking trails to choose from – a 30-minute and a 60-minute trail.
Tip: Don’t wear white as the ochre will stain your clothes!
Entrance costs just €3 per person and is free for children under 10. Walking the Sentier des ocres is the best thing to do in Roussillon, and is a great activity for families visiting Provence.
The center of Roussillon is small but charming. Many of the buildings have been made with the ochre, resulting in the whole town basking in a pinky-orange hue. Wandering around the cute narrow streets of Roussillon you will find several small cafes and restaurants, as well as a number of art galleries and craft shops. For the best views over the surrounding countryside, walk to the Belvedere Observation deck, behind the Saint Michael church. The best way to get to Roussillon is by car, and there are several small car parks located around the town, all costing €3 per day. During the weekends and peak summer months, it is advised to arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to ensure that you get a space.
Savor Exceptional Wines in Scenic Gigondas
Recommended by Denise of Chef Denise
Gigondas may not have the same fame and caché as its neighbor Chateauneuf-du-Pape, but that’s exactly what makes it a hidden gem in the heart of France. Nestled in the scenic Haut Vaucluse region, this charming village is a paradise for oenophiles, food lovers, history enthusiasts, and photographers alike.
Producing about five million bottles annually of exceptional wines, wine tasting is a must in this town. And the ultimate spot for wine enthusiasts at every level is the Caveau du Gigondas. Here you’ll have the opportunity to taste over 100 wines from local cellars, mostly reds, with a few rosés breaking from tradition.
Despite its small population of 700, Gigondas offers many delicious bistros and restaurants to indulge in traditional French foods. From cozy local eateries to the renowned Michelin-starred L’Oustalet, Gigondas does not disappoint.
For those with an interest in history and architecture, the village’s ancient stone structures and cobblestone paths lead to charming sites like the local church, a quaint chapel, and the remains of a historic castle. All this set against the backdrop of lush vineyards and the majestic Dentelles de Montmirail makes Gigondas a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a perfect blend of taste, tradition, and breathtaking scenery.
Step Back in Time in the Historic Town of Uzes
Recommended by Liz. D, author of Discover Côtes du Rhône
Nestled across the Rhône River from the more widely known Provence, lies Uzès. It was once an important part of the Roman Province; its legions built the famous Pont Du Gard aqueduct to bring its waters to Nimes.
A Bishopric starting in the 5th century, the town has played a significant part in France’s history. In the 16th century, it became the first duchy of France (première Duché de France), which boasts an impressive, if somewhat petite, medieval castle that is still occasionally occupied by the Duke’s family. The town prospered with the 16th-century silk trade, evidenced by the spectacularly restored medieval buildings surrounding the Place aux Herbes, the town’s center. Visitors can explore Uzès’ rich past in its winding streets and historic landmarks, including a medieval garden and the stunning Saint-Théodorit Cathedral with its famous pipe organ.
Food lovers will delight in Uzès’ renowned Saturday market, where the flavors of Provence come alive with fresh produce, cheeses, olives, and regional specialties. The culinary scene celebrates these ingredients in traditional dishes served at charming and highly-rated restaurants. Uzès is also home to several festivals, including the famous Truffle Festival in January and the Foire aux Vins in August, which showcases the region’s best wines. Throughout the year, this charming town boasts top-level cultural events from modern dance to classical music, jazz, and even a medieval fair.
Whether you’re drawn by its history, food, or cultural vibrancy, Uzès offers an unforgettable experience in a picturesque setting. With a wide variety of accommodations, this hidden gem is a must-see on any day trip in the region. Or better yet, make it your home base and discover the great pleasure of whiling away the afternoon, sipping a chilled glass of Côtes du Rhône rosé while watching the provençal life unfold.
Enjoy the Panoramic Views in Fayence
Recommended by Larch of The Silver Nomad
The hills of the Var region of Provence are dotted with small hill towns and villages. An hour inland from Nice is the medieval hilltop town of Fayence.
Originally a fortified town dating back to the 14th Century, the market town is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, and delicious pastries and bread are available from the many local shops. Pop into Le Cave de Fayence to select wines, honey, soaps, and other Provençal produce. Ateliers, art galleries, and antique shops offer more unusual souvenirs from the area.
The narrow streets are steep and wind their way through the town as you climb higher to one of the car parks near the top. From here take the wide cobbled steps up to the Clock Tower for an amazing 360-degree view over the town and surrounding countryside. A painted tile fresco helps you identify the places you can see.
Enjoy a coffee while watching the world go by in one of the many cafes in one of the squares.
On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, the Church Square is filled with stalls for the market days. On offer are local produce, clothing, cheeses, fish as well as clothes, hardware, and linen. There are also regular brocantes, and specialist markets.
Fayence is a charming town with a lovely laid-back atmosphere you will fall in love with.
Experience the Beauty of Sillans-La-Cascade Waterfalls
Recommended by Soline from On the Road Diary
Provence is home to many natural and human-made wonders. One of its hidden gems is Sillans-La-Cascade, one of the best waterfalls in France!
Located south of the famous Gorges du Verdon, and north of the coastal towns of Saint-Tropez and Toulon, this waterfall looks like something out of a dream.
The water cascades down some 42 meters, coming from a river that you’ll follow as you hike up to it. The waterfall flows into a deep-blue pool and is surrounded by lush vegetation. It’s truly one of the most beautiful sites in Provence, and in all of France if you ask us.
Getting there is no big deal. You can park your car in the town of Sillans-La-Cascade and then it’s only a 15-minute walk. You’ll arrive at a viewing platform, not directly at the water’s edge. Swimming is prohibited at Sillans-La-Cascade for environmental and safety reasons.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Provence?
Provence is explorable throughout most of the year, and the best time to visit depends on the experience you are looking for. If you want to see the iconic lavender fields, plan your trip between late June and mid-August. This is also the busiest season in the region, and the hottest one, so be mindful of that.
If the lavender is not your main focus, consider visiting from September to late October, when you can enjoy numerous festivals. Mid-April to May is also a fabulous time to visit, as you’ll have many popular spots to yourself before the summer crowds arrive.
Provence in winter has its charm, too! We have explored both this region and the French Riviera and can attest that winter travels offer a peaceful, cozy experience with fewer tourists, allowing you to enjoy the area in a more intimate setting.
No matter when you choose to travel, it’s hard to go wrong with Provence. The region is stunning year-round, and even a short visit will leave you with wonderful memories.
