If you’re planning your Provence adventure and wondering about the best day trips from Avignon, you’re in for a treat. This charming city makes a perfect base for exploring the region’s unique landscapes, historic villages, and unforgettable cultural gems—all just a short drive away.
In this guide, we’ll reveal our top picks of places to visit near Avignon, whether by train or car, when you fancy venturing away from the capital of the Vaucluse department.
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Avignon Things to Do: Why Stop at the City When There’s So Much Nearby?
Avignon is one of the most popular travel destinations in Southern France. Affectionately referred to as the ‘Gateway to Provence,’ this charming medieval city is jam-packed full of historical sites, which means there is no shortage of places to see and things to do here. Avignon is an excellent base for exploring the region, offering a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets.
However, while you’ll want to spend a good few days taking it all in, the city’s central location provides a perfect base for exploring several fantastic destinations within two hours.
During numerous visits to Avignon, we have invested much of our time checking out quite a few. So, we’ve compiled this list of the best day trips you can do to make the most of your time there.
5 of The Best Day Trips from Avignon by Train
If you don’t have access to, or want to hire a car to explore further afield, your best bet is to do day trips from Avignon by train.
Thankfully, the TGV system in France is very fast and reliable, connecting over 200 cities in the country and being capable of travelling up to 199 mph.
This means it is a perfectly viable option to easily transport you to many (but not all) of the iconic locations in Provence. However, you are recommended to book your tickets in advance, particularly during the high season.
Travel from Avignon to Aix-en-Provence: The Gateway to Elegant Provence
Travel time: 35-40 minutes by TGV + 20 minutes shuttle to the city center (2 hours round trip).
Aix-en-Provence is one of the most popular day trips from Avignon without a car. As a vibrant university city, it exudes a youthful and refreshing energy that’s easy to fall in love with. It also carries a distinctly artistic vibe, partly due to being the birthplace of Paul Cézanne, the renowned post-Impressionist painter, whose legacy inspires many of the city’s notable attractions.
You can see many of these sites, including Atelier Cézanne, his former studio, and Jas de Bouffan, his childhood home, via an easy walking trail that links them.
If you are a fan of his work, you’ll be familiar with Sainte-Victoire, the breathtaking white limestone mountain that overlooks the city. For us, this is one of the main drawcards of the area because seeing it in person, along with the lush surrounding countryside, always gives us goosebumps.
When you arrive in Aix-en-Provence, be sure to explore the Old Town, the elegant Quartier Mazarin, and the lively Cours Mirabeau. You should also make a point of visiting the Spa Thermes Sextius, especially if you have any aches and pains, because it is said to have healing properties. If you’d like to learn more about the town’s history, consider joining a fun 2.5-hour walking tour that delves into the rich past of Aix-en-Provence.
From Avignon to Arles by Train: Your Shortcut to Provence’s Artistic Soul
Travel time: 20-25 minutes each way.
If you are into ancient history and art, you’ll want to check out Arles!
During the 1st century BC, Arles was an important Roman colony, so you can get a direct link to this legacy by exploring the six Roman structures that still exist in the city, most notably the magnificent Roman amphitheater. If you intend to visit at least four of them, get a discount pass to save money. Otherwise, get a ticket at each individual site.
In addition to its Roman heritage, the city is famous for its association with Vincent Van Gogh, who lived there for 14 months. During this time, he painted more than 300 works of art, including his famous “Starry Night Over the Rhone” and “Le Cafe La Nuit.” There are several Van Gogh Walking tours you can take.
If you intend to stay in town for dinner, we recommend Jardin Des Arts at Rue de la République. You’ll eat within a classy vaulted cloister setting that dates back centuries and from a menu that will blow your mind!
From Avignon to Nîmes by Train: Fast Track to History and Culture
Travel time: 30 minutes each way.
Thanks to its wonderful Roman ruins, Nîmes has been called the “Rome of France.” So, it is worth coming here if you want to explore this part of ancient history — particularly on a half-day trip, to which you can devote the other part to visiting Arles.
Nimes is named after Nemausus, the mysterious god of spring water, and one of its main highlights is the magnificent Roman amphitheater. It was constructed in the 2nd century AD and is one of the Roman Empire’s largest arenas, hosting several battles between fearless gladiators and wild animals.
Some other notable Roman sites you can see include the Maison Carrée temple, the Jardins des Fontaines, the Carré d’Art (a contemporary art museum), and the Tour Magne. You can explore these at your own pace or join a guided tour for deeper insights into the history, architecture, and fascinating stories behind each site.
If you can only get to one of these, we recommend the latter. It is a part of the Roman city wall that dates back to the Augustinian era and features the only watchtower that remains. At 18 metres high, it provides wonderful panoramic views of the city from the top of it.
Avignon to L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue by Train: A Quick Trip to Provence’s Venice
Travel time: 35-40 minutes each way.
Taking its name from the crystal-clear Sorgue River, which originates further upstream in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, the town is a patchwork of canals that weave through its center, creating small islands that add to its unique charm. With antique shops, picturesque views, and the soothing sounds of water all around, it’s a perfect spot for a relaxed and memorable day.
These canals are best explored on foot, and you’ll find plenty of lovely cafes and boutique stores to browse as you wander along the streets that flank the waterways.
Most visitors come on Sundays because that is when the legendary Brocante markets are held. These markets attract collectors, interior designers, and shoppers from around the world to the 300 permanent antique dealers and several stalls that operate there.
Aside from antiques, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is notable for its 17 water wheels that shed light on the village’s industrial history of paper and sawmills that were powered by them.
Its old town is also noted for its vintage signage, hanging flower baskets, and quaint Provençal buildings that are perhaps most idyllic on La Rue des Roues and Rue Carnot.
Avignon to Marseille by Train: A Quick Escape to Sun, Sea, and City Life
Travel time: 1 hour 10 minutes each way.
Nestled on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, the vibrant city of Marseille is France’s second most populous city. While you can’t possibly see all of its highlights in just one day, it’s well worth a day trip from Avignon, especially if you’re in the mood for some sunbathing on Marseille’s beaches.
Most people head straight to Prado Beach, the area’s most famous and popular spot. However, we’d also recommend Île Degaby, a beach with a true desert-island feel. Located just offshore from the picturesque port of Malmousque, it was once reportedly used to isolate plague victims. Today, it’s a peaceful escape where you can relax and soak up the sun, far from the crowds.
After you’ve had your fill of sunbathing, make your way to Notre Dame de la Garde. Perched atop a prominent hill, this stunning basilica offers spectacular panoramic views of the cityscape and the Mediterranean Sea.
Beyond the beaches, Marseille has plenty to offer, from museums and art galleries to charming shops and restaurants. It’s also the starting point for many incredible sea trips, including visits to the breathtaking Calanques.
10 of the Best Day Trips from Avignon by Car
While trains offer an easy way to visit some of Provence’s main sites, it is much easier to drive to them.
If you don’t have access to your own vehicle, the likes of Sixt, Avis, Europcar, and Hertz all have offices in the city – the latter of which has one at the Avignon train station. I prefer using aggregators like Discovercars to find the best vehicle and then purchasing car insurance directly from the vendor when picking up the car.
Tip: For Provence, I recommend booking a smaller vehicle. It’s much easier to navigate the narrow streets of villages and towns, and it’s a real advantage when dealing with the typically tight parking spaces.
Regardless of who you book your vehicle from, here are some of the best day trips from Avignon by car.
Avignon to Gordes: Your Scenic Route to Provence’s Iconic Hilltop Village
Driving time: 50 minutes one way.
Get ready to say ‘wow’ a lot when you visit Gordes. This stunning village, on the foothills of the Monts de Vaucluse, is one of the most well-known in Provence. Facing the Luberon, which boasts a scintillating landscape of lavender fields, vineyards, and beautiful villages, its Insta-worthy setting is accentuated by white stone buildings and houses that are dramatically embedded into the cliff of a mountain.
During World War II, Gordes was actually a resistance village and was awarded the prestigious Croix de Guerre 1939–1945 medal. It was bombed by the Germans in August 1944 in retaliation for the killing of a soldier by resistance fighters. However, in keeping with that defiant spirit, the village has well and truly bounced back.
Today, it is a popular tourist destination, with several quaint shops, museums, and cafes and an intriguing labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets known as ‘calades,’ which you can explore.
Gordes also has distinctly artistic vibes, with luminaries such as Marc Chagall, André Lhote, Pol Mara, and Victor Vasarely all previously calling the village home and leaving their creative mark on it.
Here’s a little tip: if you’re planning to explore the stunning hilltop villages of Luberon, including the picture-perfect Gordes, there is a 9-hour day tour that consistently scores great reviews from travelers. The cost can actually match what you’d spend on gas and parking if you were driving around all day yourself—but without the hassle of navigating or finding spots to park. Plus, you get to sit back, relax, and soak in the scenery stress-free!
Avignon to Roussillon: Your Shortcut to Provence’s Most Colorful Village
Driving time: 55 minutes one way.
Roussillon is another must-visit destination in the Luberon Valley. It has been officially classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France.
This village is best known for its distinctive red cliffs, which derive from the largest known ochre deposit in the world. Apparently, there are around 17 different shades of it on show in the houses in the village, which include various types of pinks, oranges, yellows, and reds. All of them are accentuated by the colours of the sunset, which give the area a magical feel. Try to find a nice vantage point to take them all in.
While in the village, you’ll find plenty of fabulous cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries that will give you a feel for what life is like here. You can compare your thoughts with those of Laurence Wylie, the American sociologist and Harvard professor who wrote a book titled A Village in the Vaucluse in 1957 after spending a year living here with his family.
If eating out, make sure you try the bourride, which is a delicious local fish stew.
Visiting Châteauneuf-du-Pape: Where History Meets World-Class Wine
Driving time: 25 minutes one way.
If you are partial to the odd drop of wine, you must head to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, which is tucked away in the Rhône valley.
The region boasts over 8,000 acres of lush vineyards, of which Grenache is the primary grape variety. It primarily produces red wines that are high in alcohol content (the average is 14%, and the minimum is 12.5%, and rich in flavour).
If wine tasting is at the top of your list in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, but no one in your group wants to miss out by being the designated driver, consider booking a guided tour. There are plenty of organised tours you can go on, including the Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wine Tour. This is a full-day excursion that showcases the various aspects of the wine-making process at several wineries in the area and includes several tastings. It’s a stress-free way to fully enjoy the region’s renowned wines, and these tours consistently get glowing reviews for their expert guides and well-chosen stops. Cheers to that!
However, if you would like a more intimate experience, we recommend you visit some of the cellar doors independently, such as Domaine Galévan, Vieux Télégraphe, and Château de Beaucastel.
If you head to the latter, you will be in for a treat. As well as the breathtaking sight of truffle oaks and olive trees that are over 100 years old, you can buy a Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2023, which is one of the nicest wines we’ve had in a while!
Avignon to Sénanque Abbey: Discover Provence’s Timeless Lavender Haven
Driving time: 55 minutes one way.
If you happen to be visiting Avignon between June and early August, make sure you schedule a visit to the Sénanque Abbey. The Valensole region is well-known for its beautiful lavender fields that transform the countryside into a vibrant wash of purple in the summer months, and one of the best examples of it can be found at the abbey.
This beautiful Romanesque structure dates back to the 12th century and operates as a Cistercian abbey. It is made from local stone, which ensures it perfectly harmonises with its natural surroundings and is located not far from Gordes.
You can walk through the lavender fields until your heart is content, which is a lovely, soul-lifting experience. However, if you want to venture inside the Sénanque, the monks will take you on a guided tour of the medieval abbey. This includes the church, chapter house, cloister, former dormitory, and boiler house, which will give you a fascinating insight into what life is like there.
If you want to experience this more qualitatively, you can even enjoy a spiritual retreat at the abbey, although you will need to arrange this well in advance of your visit.
From Avignon to Camargue: Where Nature, Wildlife, and Culture Collide
Driving time: 1 hour 15 minutes one way.
The Camargue is a massive wetland region sandwiched between the Rhône River delta and the Mediterranean Sea. It is defined by its rich biodiversity and unique landscape and is best known as the home of the famous white Camargue horses.
These horses have lived in the area for thousands of years and can still be seen wandering majestically around the land today. You can even ride on them at one of the various stables that run in the Camargue Regional Nature Park (including the Le Palomino Le Boumian and Les Arnelles), which is one of the most amazing feelings we have ever experienced. You’ll still feel the adrenaline coursing through your body several hours afterwards!
Aside from the horses, you can also see flamingos (especially in the summer) and numerous species of birds at the Ornithological Park of Pont de Gau. You can get the best view of them from one of two boardwalk trails that take you through the marshlands.
If time permits, you should also check out the nearby town of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, which has some pristine sandy beaches you can relax on.
Avignon to Vaison-la-Romaine: Discover History, Markets, and Scenic Beauty
Driving time: 1 hour one way.
Situated just an hour’s drive from Avignon is the historic Vaison-la-Romaine, which comprises three different parts — antique, medieval, and contemporary, that span 2000 years yet lie adjacent to each other. Each of these deserves equal attention during your visit here.
The area has been inhabited since the Bronze Age when it was the capital of the Vocontii, the dominant Celtic tribe. However, it is best known for its impressive Roman ruins, bridge, and landmark cathedral.
Today, it comprises an old town that is divided into two parts: the Colline du Château, or upper city, which resides on a hillside near the River Ouvèze, and the ‘Lower City,’ which centers around the Colline de la Villasse.
Collectively, they are home to the largest concentration of Roman ruins in France, which are accessible to the public. We have spent quite a bit of time looking at them all during our visits. However, as impressive as they are, there has always been a prevailing thought in our minds about what may be hidden under the ground where the many shops, cafes, and galleries now reside.
Avignon to Sault: Breathe in the Beauty of Provence’s High Plateau
Driving time: 1 hour 10 minutes one way.
If you want to see the lavender fields but can’t get to Avignon until the latter part of July and August, your best bet is to drive on a day trip to the village of Sault.
This picturesque village sits on a plateau that offers terrific views of the majestic Mont Ventoux, which is perfectly offset by endless fields of lavande – a very precious type of lavender.
As the area is at a high altitude, the flowering plant blooms a little bit later than in the famous Valensole fields in the Luberon area. While you can book a guided tour to see them, it is better to hire a car because if you time it right, you can have the field pretty much to yourself, which makes for an even more magical experience as you wander through it.
If you have a sweet tooth, you should also head over to the André Boyer Maître Confiseur in Sault. This place is well-known for its fabulous nougat, which is made with lavender honey and literally melts in your mouth.
Avignon to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse: From City Life to Nature’s Tranquil Oasis
Driving time: 45 minutes one way.
A little village tucked away in the Vaucluse department, Fontaine-de-Vaucluse often gets overlooked in Provence travel itineraries. It’s understandable, given the fierce competition of stunning locations and limited time most travelers have. However, this tiny village of just 600 residents is absolutely worth the trip from Avignon!
Believed to have been settled as far back as Roman times due to its proximity to the famous spring, Fontaine-de-Vaucluse sits in a picturesque setting surrounded by cliffs and the Sorgue River, which originates from the spring itself. The spring, dating back millions of years, was naturally formed through geological processes in the Limestone Alps of Provence and is considered one of the largest in the world by water flow.
If you’re planning this day trip from Avignon, arrive early. Park your car in the large municipal lot and take a slow, relaxing stroll toward the village’s main square. From there, enjoy a short, scenic hike along the river, where you can marvel at its flow, mesmerizing color, and the overwhelming sense of calm it brings. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, treat yourself to lunch at one of the many delightful restaurants by the water—a perfect way to round out your visit.
Avignon to Bonnieux: A Day Trip to the Heart of Luberon’s Rustic Charm
Driving time: 50 minutes one way.
Bonnieux may lack the fame of its Luberon Valley neighbor Gordes or the glitz and glamour of Lourmarin and Les Baux-de-Provence, but this charming hilltop village makes for a memorable day trip from Avignon.
Once a Roman settlement along the Via Domitia, the ancient route linking Italy to Spain, Bonnieux later became a significant fortified village during the Middle Ages. Its oldest structures, like the Église Haute (Upper Church), date back to the 12th century.
Start your visit by leaving the car at the free parking lot at the foot of the village (a quick tip: the lot is small and fills up fast). From there, enjoy a leisurely walk up the hill, winding through Bonnieux’s old, narrow streets. Along the way, you’ll discover remnants of fortifications, charming archways, small fountains, and historic homes—some dating back to the Renaissance. Don’t miss the Tour Philippe, a distinctive clock tower built in the early 19th century, which adds character to the village skyline.
At the top, you’ll find the Église Haute, a stunning 12th-century Romanesque church surrounded by centuries-old cedar trees. The panoramic views of the Luberon Valley from this vantage point are simply breathtaking and make the climb worth every step. Inside, the church offers a serene, peaceful space—perfect for a quiet moment of reflection.
Bonnieux’s charm lies in its history, authenticity, and spectacular vistas, making it an ideal stop for those seeking a slower, more meaningful taste of Provence.
Avignon to Calanques: Trade Historic Streets for Sun, Sea, and Stunning Views
Driving time: 1 hour 30 minutes one way.
The Calanques, officially known as the Parc National des Calanques, are a series of dramatic limestone cliffs, narrow inlets, and turquoise coves stretching along the Mediterranean coast between Marseille and Cassis in southern France. Formed over 120 million years through tectonic activity, erosion, and the sea’s gradual carving of limestone, these stunning formations are now a protected national park and a beloved destination for hiking, boating, and swimming.
The best time to visit the Calanques is in spring or autumn, when the weather is perfect for hiking. During these seasons, the trails are more accessible, allowing visitors to explore remote locations like the breathtaking Calanque d’En-Vau. Keep in mind that access to the park is regulated during summer (June 1 to September 30) due to the high fire risk caused by the hot, dry weather.
The easiest calanques to explore are located closer to Cassis:
- Calanque de Port-Miou: Just a 25-minute walk from Cassis.
- Calanque de Port-Pin: About a 45-minute walk from Cassis.
For those up for a challenge, the hike to Calanque d’En-Vau takes about 2.5 hours round trip and includes a steep descent and an equally steep climb back up. The effort is rewarded with fewer crowds, jaw-dropping scenery, and the chance to swim in its turquoise waters after an intense trek.
A visit to the Calanques is often paired with a stop in the charming coastal village of Cassis, where you can unwind in one of its many quaint restaurants—perfect for a well-deserved lunch after your adventure.
3 Amazing Day Trips from Avignon Without a Car
Not having your own wheels shouldn’t stop you from experiencing the region’s beauty. Many of the day trips from Avignon, France, mentioned above are available as guided tours, making it easy to explore without the hassle of driving. To help you see even more highlights, here are three amazing Provence day tours from Avignon that capture the essence of this stunning region. Whether it’s charming hilltop villages, lavender fields, or coastal wonders, these day tours from Avignon have you covered!
Provence’s Greatest Hits: A Day of Villages, Views, and Timeless Landmarks
See the best of Provence on a hassle-free day trip from Avignon. Explore the colorful streets of Roussillon and the hilltop beauty of Gordes, then relax by the crystal-clear waters of Fontaine-de-Vaucluse. Visit the charming town of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and take in the stunning cliffs and ruins of Les Baux-de-Provence. Finish the day at the incredible Pont du Gard, a Roman masterpiece you won’t forget.
Join this tour for a perfect day of Provence’s must-see spots!
Wild Wonders of the Rhône Delta: Birds, History, and Coastal Charm
Discover the beauty of the Rhône delta on a captivating day trip from Avignon. Stroll through the Pont de Gau Bird Park, home to vibrant flamingos and diverse wildlife, before visiting the seaside village of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer to explore its impressive fortified church. End your journey in Aigues-Mortes, where medieval walls and cobbled streets transport you back to the Middle Ages.
Don’t miss this unique mix of nature and history—book your spot today!
The Art of Provence: Van Gogh, Hilltop Views, and Roman Treasures
Step into Van Gogh’s world as you admire the landscapes surrounding St. Paul de Mausole in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Wander the stunning hilltop village of Les Baux-de-Provence, known for its dramatic views and medieval charm. Then, dive into Provence’s Roman past with a visit to the historic city of Arles and the awe-inspiring Pont du Gard, a true Roman masterpiece.
Experience art, history, and beauty all in one unforgettable day—book your tour now!
Provence Day Tours from Avignon: Plan Your Perfect Adventure
Whether by car, train, or guided tours, there are endless ways to explore Provence from Avignon—the key is proper planning and booking in advance, especially during high season. The 18 trips we’ve listed here are not only perfect for those based in Avignon but also make for some of the best trips from Aix-en-Provence, offering an equally great base to discover the region’s highlights.For more travel inspiration, be sure to check out our other publications on Provence and the French Riviera. Having visited the region multiple times, we know all its ins and outs, hidden gems, and must-see destinations to make your trip unforgettable!
Written by Inessa Rezanova
I’m a travel writer, keen to see the world and share its stories. I’m Ukrainian, and I continue to explore my country even in times of full-scale invasion. Not just because I love it, but because I believe in showing the world the beauty, strength, and humanity that exists here, even now.
Images by Natalie Rezanova
I’m a photographer based in Kyiv, Ukraine. Photography is an endless source of inspiration for me, and I’m happy to share it on the Through a Travel Lens blog. Along with stories and travel guides, you can also explore my collection of travel posters — a series of my favorite photographs turned into wall art.
