Scenic Road Trip in the Heart of Provence: 5 Day itinerary

Aix-en-Provence

This is truly the historic capital of Provence—both when the region was independent and even afterward—so you are right in the heart of it!

Fresh off your flight or high-speed train from the nearby international airport or TGV station, I recommend not picking up your car just yet. Instead, spend two nights in Aix at a hotel close to the old town. Aix-en-Provence is a vibrant, historic city—but also a lively college town (this is where I graduated!) — surrounded by incredible places to explore.

Farmer’s Markets

They are unbelievable in Aix! There’s a daily market that’s simply phenomenal, and if you’re lucky enough to be there when the flower market is on, you’re in for a treat.

When: Every day at Place Richelme (farmer’s market).

On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, don’t miss the flower market at Place de la Mairie—two of the most famous markets in town.

The Old Town

Founded in 123 BC by the Romans, Aix has preserved traces of every era since. You can still enjoy a spa (Thermes Sextius) on the site of the ancient Roman baths, and strolling through the old town is like walking through 2,100 years of history. There’s so much to see—consider joining a walking tour or simply wandering through the little streets at your own pace. I recommend ending up at Place des Cardeurs for a coffee, cocktail, lunch, or dinner, depending on the time of day.

When: Anytime, day or night! Many residents of the old town are students, giving the area a vibrant, youthful energy.

Fondation Vasarely

Less than two miles from the old town—about 10 minutes by public transport—you’ll find this museum, often missed by visitors not in the know. Vasarely, a Hungarian-born artist who lived in the region for decades and became French, is considered the grandfather of Op Art (Optical Art). Whether you’re a modern art enthusiast or simply curious about optical illusions, you’ll be mesmerized.

When: Wednesday to Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm Set aside at least two hours for your visit.

In the Steps of Paul Cézanne & Sainte-Victoire Mountain

The pioneer of Impressionism and Cubism (Picasso came here for that reason!) was born and raised in Aix. You can visit his studio, a short walk north of the old town, as well as his home about 15 minutes from Fondation Vasarely. Don’t miss the Musée Granet to see some of his paintings.

But please don’t leave without visiting La Sainte-Victoire—the mountain he painted countless times. Visible from nearly everywhere in the region, it was his lifelong muse, especially from its western side.

When: All year round, though note that from June 1st to September 30th, access can be restricted due to fire risk. There are walks and hikes for all levels—my favorite starting point is Chemin de Bibémus, not only because the road there is stunning but also because I lived nearby for a couple of years in my late 20s!

Eat & drink

Cafés and restaurants are everywhere in Aix, especially in the old town. It’s hard to go wrong, but I’d avoid Cours Sextius or Cours Mirabeau for meals—they’re a bit too touristy (though great for people-watching over cocktails!)

My favorites:

• Chez Lyon, Faubourg 46, or Yves—excellent, affordable local cuisine.

• Étude or Arts—for a Michelin-star experience.

• For a three-Michelin-star meal, head to Marseille and book a table at Le Petit Nice—unbelievable food in an unbelievable setting.

• And don’t miss the Calisson d’Aix, a candy created here centuries ago. If you love melon, orange, and almond paste, this is your treat! Try it at Confiserie du Roy René in the old town.

This is a lesser-traveled part of Provence—and an extraordinary one. I’ve put together an itinerary with about four hours of total driving time, taking you on a scenic loop (“boucle”) through this hidden gem. Plan to leave early to make the most of your day, and don’t hesitate to linger wherever you feel inspired.

Stop 1: Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Take the road through Gréoux-les-Bains to avoid backtracking on your return. You can even stop in Gréoux—a charming spa town with a relaxed vibe.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is officially listed among Les Plus Beaux Villages de France (“The Most Beautiful Villages of France”)—and for good reason! It’s also famous for its pottery, specifically faïence, a delicate and beautifully painted earthenware produced here for centuries. If you fall in love with the style, you can easily have the pieces shipped home.

Don’t be shy—walk up to the small chapel near the star suspended between the two cliffs. The view from there is simply breathtaking.

For a meal, stop in town near the river—La Cantine and La Grignotière are two of my favorite spots for breakfast, brunch, or lunch.

Stop 2: The Verdon Canyon (Gorges du Verdon)

Not as vast or deep as the Grand Canyon, but every bit as stunning in its own way. From Moustiers, you’ll need to choose between the north rim and the south rim—they don’t connect easily, so plan accordingly.

The north rim offers the most scenic viewpoints and photo stops.

The south rim is more adventurous, with dramatic turns, the Lac de Sainte-Croix (great for swimming from June to October), the Pont de l’Artuby (a Himalayan-style bridge), and even bungee jumping for the brave!

Whichever you choose, keep in mind you’ll need to turn around and return to Moustiers afterward.

Stop 3: Valensole & the Lavender Fields

If you’re traveling in June or July, this is a must-do! The lavender fields here stretch endlessly across the plateau—truly postcard-perfect Provence. Even outside the lavender season, you’ll find sunflower fields, rolling farmland, and countless photo-worthy stops. Keep your eyes open—you’ll see beauty everywhere, and you can pull over whenever something catches your attention.

Stop 4: L’Occitane en Provence Headquarters (Manosque)

Yes, that L’Occitane—the world-famous skincare brand—was founded right here in Manosque. The best part? They offer a fascinating one-hour guided tour (available in English) of their production site, along with an excellent museum and shop on-site.

It’s the perfect final stop before returning to your hotel in Aix—or, if you’re staying nearby, to Le Couvent des Minimes.

Remember Peter Mayle, the author of the bestseller, “A Year in Provence”? Well, you’re here—this is where he lived and wrote the book! Today’s itinerary takes you to Gordes, a quintessential Provençal village that has earned the title of Most Beautiful Village in France several times, along with other stunning nearby sites, including the Provençal Colorado.

This is about a three-hour round trip, but one you’ll definitely remember.

Stop 1: Rustrel, the Colorado of Provence

Yesterday it was the Grand Canyon—today it’s Colorado Springs… but in Provence!

This is a truly magical place: an old ocher quarry that’s now a hiking and walking area set in the middle of a charming Provençal village. You can take short or long walks depending on your mood, surrounded by striking red, orange, and yellow rock formations.

After exploring, stop for a coffee near the château—a perfect pause before heading to Gordes.

Stop 2: Gordes, the Most Beautiful Village in France

Or at least one of the most beautiful—hands down! Perched on a hilltop, Gordes can get quite busy in summer, but visiting during the off-season or on a weekday is pure magic.

It’s a small village, so a leisurely hour’s stroll is plenty to take in its cobblestone streets and stone houses. For lunch or a drink, try Teston, L’Outsider, or, for something special, Les Bories & Spa, a 5-star hotel and restaurant on the road to your next stop.

Stop 3: Abbaye de Sénanque

Just a short drive from Gordes, this still-active Cistercian Abbey is an architectural gem. I highly recommend booking an English tour online to get the most out of your visit. The abbey has been beautifully restored, and since the monks still live here, you’ll truly feel the weight of nearly a thousand years of history.

Return or detour: The hidden villages of the Luberon

You can take the freeway back, or, if time allows, follow the scenic route through Céreste, La Bastide-des-Jourdans, Ansouis, Lourmarin, and Lauris to discover the more off-the-beaten-path side of the Luberon.

Each village is worth a stop—and Ansouis is my personal favorite. And who knows, if we’re around, maybe you can stop by for a drink on the way… My wife is from this area, and we have a little townhouse here where we spend time regularly—it’s my base for testing all these recommendations!