How to Design a 7-Day Self-Drive Escape in Provence

There are few places in the world that stir the senses quite like Provence. Picture this: violet lavender fields undulating under the summer sun, cicadas humming in rhythm with the breeze, and hilltop towns basking in golden light like an impressionist painting brought to life. It’s no wonder artists like Van Gogh and Cézanne found their muses here. But Provence is more than its postcard beauty—it’s a journey into the essence of slow travel, where every curve in the road leads to another revelation: a village market in full bloom, a centuries-old abbey draped in purple, or a glass of chilled rosé sipped under olive trees.

This guide is crafted not just for those with a car key in hand and the wind at their back, but for every kind of traveler seeking a poetic and practical escape. Whether you’re renting a car or hopping on the regional TER trains, this curated 7-day self-drive itinerary through Provence weaves together iconic sights with hidden corners, grounded in both personal moments and logistical wisdom. For where to base yourself, check out my dedicated guide on the best places to stay in Provence, and if you’re planning a broader adventure, don’t miss the companion post: How to Design a 7-Day Self-Drive Escape Along the Côte d’Azur.

Each day ends with intimate reflections—field notes and route tips—offering essential insights on scenic drives, parking, seasonal timing, and authentic bites. And if you’re a fellow seeker of seasonal blooms, be sure to explore more in the France travel section, or venture further afield into Kamakura’s hydrangea trails and Jeju’s springtime canola wonderland.

So if you’ve ever dreamt of drifting through lavender-scented air and timeless stone villages, let this be your compass—heart-led, map-anchored, and memory-bound.

Let’s begin the journey.

Why Visit Provence in Lavender Season

The Fields That Breathe Purple

Lavender and Provence are more than a visual pairing—they are a sensory immersion, deeply entwined in the rhythm of Southern France. When summer rolls in, the landscapes erupt into violet waves that roll across the hillsides and plateaus, filling the air with their calming scent and inviting travelers to slow down and breathe it all in. Visiting during lavender season isn’t just about the fields—it’s about stepping into the heart of Provençal culture.

Best Time to Plan Your Lavender Visit

Lavender blooms in Provence between late June and mid‑August, but timing varies significantly by location and altitude. For 2025:

• 

  Valensole Plateau (low altitude): early bloom around June 20, peak June 28–July 15, harvest begins around July 15–20.

• Luberon (Gordes, Sénanque, Bonnieux): bloom begins late June, peaks July 1–18, tapering off by July 22.
• Sault & Mont Ventoux Plateau (higher altitude ~800–900 m): early bloom from July 5, peak July 10–25, with some fields still flowering into early August.

Where & When to Go—Perfect for Self-Drivers

Valensole Plateau

• Aim for late June to early July. Fields after mid‑July may be partially or fully harvested.
• Stick to roadside fields near Puimoisson, Riez, or Lavandes Angelvin which sometimes leave patches for tourism even later in July.

Luberon Region & Sénanque Abbey

• Best from late June through mid‑July. Smaller fields, but stunning in context with villages and abbey.
• The Abbey often maintains a showcase patch longer, but bloom varies with weather—always check local bloom updates online or via local visitor centers.

Sault Plateau

• Ideal if your travel falls in mid- to late July. Fields here bloom later and harvest later, offering good chances to see lavender in bloom through late July, sometimes early August.
• Check local websites or social media (Sault tourism, distilleries) the week before—locals often share bloom condition updates.

How to Stay Informed as a Self‑Driver

• Follow local bloom calendars: e.g. IdreamProvence Tours bloom calendar for yearly dates, or check out 2026 calendars to plan your travels around seasonal highlights.
• Check regional tourism boards: Official Luberon, Sault or Valensole websites regularly update bloom status.
• Join community feeds or forums: Travelers on Reddit often post real-time bloom conditions (e.g. fields in bloom late July at Sault).
• Call ahead to distilleries or farms, especially near Sault or Valensole—many are family-run and will confirm bloom dates or harvesting schedules.

So You Won’t End Up Between Stalks and Stumps

• Visiting Valensole after mid‑July risks finding fields already harvested—or only a few remaining demonstration patches.
• In contrast, Sault gives greater flexibility and longer bloom windows.
• And Luberon’s smaller, village-adjacent fields can feel more intimate—but bloom varies each year, so rely on weekly updates or local advice.

Combine this info with your car‑driven lavender route and you can time your stops so you’re there when the colors are at their richest—not when local farmers are in full harvest swing.

Where Lavender Meets Limestone: Planning the Perfect Provence Route

From sweeping lavender fields to terraced vineyards, ochre cliffs, medieval stone villages, and sun-drenched coastal towns, Provence is a masterpiece of contrasts—each region offering a distinct tempo and flavor. This part of southern France is best explored slowly, and a self-drive journey offers the perfect rhythm. While train travel can connect you between major hubs like Avignon, Marseille, or Arles, the real gems—Sault’s blooming fields, Cassis’ hidden coves, or Lourmarin’s village markets—are best uncovered by car. That said, guided tours, bike routes, or day packages are widely available for those looking to explore without driving.

Lavender season (late June to mid-July) is the region’s crown jewel, but Provence also invites you to sip local rosé, trace Roman ruins, or lose yourself in sunlit alleyways. Grouping your route by region allows for a smoother itinerary, letting you focus your time wisely without doubling back. Below are the four key areas to consider when plotting your Provençal escape—each one offers a unique glimpse into the cultural, natural, and emotional heart of the South.

Luberon Region (Central Provence)

Gordes, Roussillon, Lourmarin, Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt, Sénanque Abbey, Sault

The Luberon is what most travelers imagine when they think of “Provence”—romantic stone villages clinging to cliffs, panoramic vineyards, and color-drenched towns nestled between mountains and fields. Gordes is the poster child: dramatically perched and crowned with honey-colored stone. Just a short drive away, Roussillon stuns with its vivid red ochre cliffs—one of the few places in Provence where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped onto Mars. Lourmarin, elegant and artistic, is home to a Renaissance château and beloved Provençal markets. For the lavender lovers, Sault offers a quieter alternative to the more popular Valensole fields, with opportunities to witness distillation workshops and breathe in the therapeutic scent. Don’t miss Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, where monks tend to lavender fields in monastic silence—arrive early for light and solitude. The Luberon also features lesser-known gems like Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt, perfect for scenic walks and slower travel moments.

Alpilles Region (Western Provence)

Les Baux-de-Provence, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Arles

Nestled between limestone ridges and olive groves, the Alpilles are compact but packed with Provençal character. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a must-stay hub—this charming town is not only where Van Gogh painted some of his most iconic works, but also home to bustling Wednesday markets, ancient Roman ruins, and boutique shops brimming with lavender products and local crafts.

A short drive away, Les Baux-de-Provence is perched high on a rocky outcrop, offering sweeping views and an unforgettable visit to Carrières de Lumières—an immersive art installation inside a former quarry. Though not in my featured itinerary, Arles deserves a mention for its Roman amphitheatre and as a cultural hub with easy transport connections, ideal for travelers who may not self-drive. The Alpilles are compact enough to explore by bike, car, or even e-scooter—but it’s the rural charm and slower rhythm that keep visitors returning.

Vaucluse & Surroundings

Avignon, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Pont du Gard

Vaucluse is the gateway to many Provençal journeys, with Avignon serving as a cultural and transportation hub. While this city deserves a few days of exploration on its own—especially for the Palais des Papes, medieval bridges, and vibrant arts scene—it’s also the starting point for many guided day trips and regional rail lines. From Avignon, it’s a short drive to L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, a canal-laced town famed for its antiques market and leisurely Sunday shopping experience. Pastel shutters, riverside cafés, and art galleries make it a place you won’t want to rush through.

Further west, Pont du Gard is one of the region’s most dramatic Roman relics. Spanning the Gardon River, this UNESCO-listed aqueduct is both an engineering marvel and a refreshing swim spot on summer days. For those not self-driving, Avignon offers tour pick-up points, making the rest of Vaucluse’s treasures still very accessible.

Provence Cities & Coast

Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, Cassis, Nîmes

Urban elegance meets coastal drama in this dynamic slice of Provence. Aix-en-Provence brings sophistication with tree-lined boulevards, Cezanne’s legacy, and boutique-lined streets humming with fountains and rosé bars. It’s a great base for exploring inland or heading toward the coast. Marseille, the beating heart of the south, is vibrant and raw—with a culinary scene powered by African, Mediterranean, and Provençal influences. While I’ll share more on Marseille in a future article, consider spending a few days here to enjoy its museums, harbor, and the dramatic cliffs of nearby Calanques National Park.

Just an hour away, Cassis offers a more tranquil coastal retreat with boat trips to the Calanques, cliffside walks, and hidden pebble beaches—ideal for a detour or a day of sea and sun. Though not in my main itinerary, Nîmes is worth noting for Roman history buffs—it’s a great side-trip destination for ancient amphitheatres and temples with minimal crowds.

Wine Travel in Provence

Rosé Dreams and Sun-Kissed Vines

When it comes to French wine, Bordeaux and Burgundy often steal the spotlight—but Provence holds its own, especially for lovers of crisp, refreshing rosé. In fact, Provence is the birthplace of rosé wine, and today, over 80% of its wine production is dedicated to this delicate, pale pink perfection. The terroir here—sun-drenched slopes, sea breezes, and mineral-rich soil—creates wines that are light, floral, and made for warm, Mediterranean evenings.

Some of the best vineyard regions to explore include:

• 

  Côtes de Provence AOC: The largest and most recognized wine area, stretching from Aix-en-Provence to the coast. Many estates here offer tastings and cellar tours, especially around Cassis, Bandol, and Fréjus.

• Luberon and Ventoux: These inland regions are less touristy, but incredibly scenic, and you’ll find small-scale vineyards producing character-rich reds and whites alongside rosés.
• Les Baux-de-Provence: Known for organic and biodynamic winemaking, perfect for eco-conscious wine lovers.

For an immersive experience, consider staying at a wine estate, joining a half-day tasting tour from Aix or Avignon, or simply pulling over for a spontaneous dégustation while on your road trip. Unlike the more formal châteaux of Bordeaux, Provençal vineyards often feel more relaxed and family-run—welcoming travelers with open arms, and sometimes, even lunch under the olive trees.

Planning Your Provence Road Trip – 
Turning the Key to a Week of Lavender, Limestone, and Rosé

Planning a road trip through Provence is as much about pacing as it is about plotting. With its winding country roads, cliffside villages, and open fields fading into the horizon, this region invites you to travel slowly, with intention. While this guide is designed as a 7-day self-drive itinerary, there’s plenty of flexibility built in—perfect for readers who want to tailor their experience. Some destinations, like Marseille or Avignon, deserve an extended stay to fully take in their depth, heritage, and local culture. I’ll be diving deeper into these cities in upcoming articles, so stay tuned for more insights!

The suggested route is crafted to minimize backtracking while maximizing scenic variety—from hilltop villages and Roman ruins to coastal cliffs and lavender-scented plateaus. Whether you’re renting a car, joining day tours, or combining trains with short drives, this plan blends practical travel routes with poetic Provençal moments—making it easy to adapt to your travel style and timing.

Let the journey begin.

Day 1: Kick off from Aix-en-Provence
Art, Avenues, and the Rhythm of Provence Begins

If you’ve arrived from Avignon and already explored its papal palaces and bridge to nowhere (if not, check out my separate guide to Avignon!), Aix-en-Provence is the perfect place to begin your road trip. Known for its artistic soul, leafy boulevards, and effortlessly elegant vibe, Aix is more than just a pretty face—it’s where you start to feel the Provençal rhythm.

This is the day to settle in slowly. After picking up your rental car—Aix has several convenient pickup points near the city center or train station—start your immersion with a gentle stroll along Cours Mirabeau. This plane tree-lined promenade is the heart of the city, dotted with historic mansions, cafes, and fountains whispering beneath their soft spray. Grab a table at a terrace café, sip a chilled glass of local rosé, and indulge in the simple luxury of doing nothing at all.

Explore the nearby Old Town, lose yourself in backstreets filled with artisan shops and boutiques, or follow in the footsteps of Paul Cézanne, who painted Mont Sainte-Victoire just beyond the city. Aix’s charm lies not in rushing but in absorbing—Provence begins not with a bang, but with a breath.

Notes from the Road

• Driving tip: Most car rentals available at Aix TGV or city center; book early for summer
• Parking: Try underground lots near Cours Mirabeau (e.g., Méjanes, Rotonde)
• Best time: Late afternoon to evening for golden hour café ambience
• Local bite: Try calissons d’Aix, a signature almond-paste candy

Day 2: Luberon Villages
Gordes, Roussillon & Lourmarin – Hilltop Views, Earthy Hues, Café Culture

The second day of your Provence road trip brings you into the heart of the Luberon, where villages perch on cliffs, ochre trails glow in sunlight, and Renaissance châteaux nestle between olive groves and vineyards. This trio—Gordes, Roussillon, and Lourmarin—encapsulates iconic Provence in a single day.

Gordes: Often hailed as the “most beautiful village in the world,” Gordes is dramatically perched on the edge of the Vaucluse plateau, with white stone houses tumbling down to olive groves below. From the Route de Cavaillon viewpoint, you’ll capture the classic postcard shot: Gordes standing sentinel above lavender fields and valleys beyond. Within the village, explore narrow calade lanes, visit Château de Gordes, and enjoy panoramic terraces. Try photographing early morning light or golden hour (it could be until 9 PM during summer!) for softer tones and fewer crowds.

Roussillon: A short drive from Gordes, Roussillon is famous for its vibrant ochre cliffs and pigments—the village glows in earthy reds, oranges, and yellows. Wander the streets painted in mineral hues, then follow the Sentier des Ocres (ochre trail)—a Mars-like landscape shaped by erosion and historical quarrying. The contrast of ochre paths against blue skies makes for stunning visuals.

Lourmarin: Bay windows of Renaissance elegance meet café terraces in Lourmarin, a relaxed yet cultural hub nestled among vineyards and olive groves. Visit the Château de Lourmarin, Provence’s first Renaissance castle turned cultural foundation, and stroll its cobbled streets lined with artisan boutiques. If you’re visiting on a Friday, catch the vibrant weekly market featuring local produce, lavender products, and delicious bites.

Sunset Stop: Abbaye Notre‑Dame de Sénanque

Just 10 minutes down winding lanes from Gordes sits the Cistercian Abbaye de Sénanque, enveloped by lavender during late June to early July. Founded in 1148, the abbey remains home to monks who grow and distill lavandin oil on site. Visit between June 20 and July 10 for peak bloom. Guided tours and self-guided visits with HistoPad tablets are available, but tours during high season can be busy, so book online ahead. Respect the silence and modest dress policy while inside. Parking is free and a short walk (or 30–45‑minute scenic footpath from Gordes). Photography is permitted only from designated areas to protect the crop. Sunset light casts a surreal glow over the lavender—an unforgettable moment if your timing aligns.

Notes from the Road:

• Driving: Gordes to Roussillon: ~15 min; Roussillon to Lourmarin: ~25 min; optional late afternoon to Sénanque adds ~10 min one-way.
• Parking: Public lots at Gordes viewpoint and Lourmarin near town square; Sénanque has onsite visitor lot.
• Best Light: Morning for Gordes viewpoint; midday for Roussillon’s ochres; late afternoon/early evening at Sénanque if lavender is in bloom.
• Local Tip: In Lourmarin, seek out lavender-infused olive oils or soaps at local shops; garden café lunches under shaded terraces offer charming pacing.

Day 3: Lavender Fields in Sault
Violet Horizons and the Scent of Summer

By Day 3, it’s time to head deeper into the lavender-scented highlands of Sault, a lesser-known yet incredibly rewarding destination for lavender lovers. Located at a higher elevation than the more frequented Valensole Plateau, Sault’s fields bloom slightly later, making it a perfect stop if you’re traveling in early to mid-July (some even last until August). The drive itself is a delight—rolling hills, pine forests, and gradually unfolding purple carpets along winding D942 and D1 roads. The best way to explore? Take your time and follow the Lavender Route, a circular loop between Sault, Ferrassières, and Aurel that leads you past photogenic fields, rustic farms, and distilleries.

Start early to beat the light and tour buses, and take your pick from multiple lavender farms that welcome visitors for photos, walks, and even workshops. One highlight: Aroma’Plantes Distillery, just outside Sault. Here, I joined a guided tour where we witnessed fresh lavender harvested and distilled into oil—the warm, earthy scent rising from copper vats filled the workshop air. The on-site shop sells soaps, oils, and locally made treats—great for souvenirs and gifts.

For lunch, pack a picnic from Sault’s local market (try the goat cheese, tapenade, and lavender honey) and find a peaceful spot among the blooms. Unlike Valensole, these fields are often more accessible and less fenced—just be mindful to stay on the paths and respect the farmers’ space.

Spend the afternoon in slow motion: nap under a tree, photograph bees at work, or simply watch the wind ripple across purple rows. Sault also has a handful of charming cafés and a panoramic viewing terrace ideal for your end-of-day wind-down.

Notes from the Road:

• Driving: Lourmarin to Sault: ~1.5 hrs via D943 & D34
• Parking: Free parking at Aroma’Plantes or roadside pull-offs along the loop
• Best Time to Visit: Early July, morning or late afternoon for light
• Food Tip: Buy picnic items in Sault town center—boulangeries, cheese shops, and lavender treats abound

Lavender Travel – Practical Tips

Maximize the Purple, Minimize the Stress

To make the most of your lavender adventure in Provence, timing and preparation are key. Aim to visit between late June and mid-July, with early July being the sweet spot in higher-altitude areas like Sault.

Photography

Aim for early morning or golden hour (before sunset) to capture soft light and avoid harsh shadows. Weekdays are better to dodge crowds, and always tread respectfully—never step between the rows, as it damages the plants and upsets local farmers.

What to Prepare & Expect

Wear sun protection, bring plenty of water, and be ready for bees (they’re gentle but busy). Many towns host lavender-themed markets, and you’ll find everything from oils and soaps to lavender honey and flavored ice cream. A visit to a distillery or farm workshop offers insight into the extraction process, turning your experience into something both sensual and educational.

Whether you rent a car or join a local tour (as I did), witnessing Provence in lavender season is unforgettable. The colors fade by late July, so time your trip wisely—and if you miss the peak, don’t worry. Dried lavender and that unmistakable scent linger in every Provençal village year-round.

What to pack:

• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
• Water bottle (it gets hot!)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• A light scarf—great for sun and adding flair to your photos
• A small picnic blanket or towel if you plan to rest in the fields

Respect signs and fences—many farms are privately owned.

Day 4: Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt + L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
From Antique Markets to Hilltop Tranquility

Day 4 takes a slightly slower pace, beginning with treasures from the past and ending in hilltop serenity—an ideal balance of lively charm and quiet reflection.

Start your morning in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, a picturesque town known as the “Venice of Provence” thanks to its canals, paddlewheels, and romantic riverside cafés. But its real fame comes from its antiques. Every Sunday, the town hosts one of the most renowned antique markets in France, drawing collectors from across Europe. You’ll find everything from vintage ceramics and linens to rare books and ornate mirrors. Even if you’re not buying, browsing the maze of stalls and permanent antique galleries is a delight.

Pro Tip: Arrive before 9 am for easier parking and fewer crowds. Public lots fill quickly on market days, especially near the central Place de la Liberté. While you’re there, grab a coffee and fresh pastry at a riverside bakery before wandering the backstreets and bridges. If it’s not Sunday, don’t worry—the town still charms with its boutiques and relaxed canal-side ambience.

In the afternoon, make your way to Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt, an underrated gem perched quietly above the Luberon Valley. It’s far less touristed than Gordes or Roussillon, yet rich in character and wide open views. Park near the village center and wander up to the ruined château and ancient windmills—the climb is gentle and rewards you with panoramic views over vineyards and rooftops. The village itself is wonderfully sleepy: ivy-covered stone façades, pastel shutters, and a scattering of art galleries and wine shops.

As the sun sets, enjoy an apéro on a peaceful terrace, perhaps with a chilled local rosé and a view of the hills. This is Provençal stillness at its best—no agenda, no rush, just a hilltop breeze and the scent of thyme in the air.

Notes from the Road:

• Driving: Sault to L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue: ~1 hr 15 min; to Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt: ~30 min
• Parking: Public lots in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue fill early; Saint-Saturnin has free roadside parking
• Market Day: L’Isle’s antiques market runs Sunday morning year-round
• Food Tip: Try tarte à la tomate or Provençal tapenade from a market stall for an easy midday snack

Day 5: Les Baux, Saint-Rémy & Arles
Art, Stone, and the Soul of Provence

Day 5 is a sensory and historical journey through the Alpilles, one of Provence’s most dramatic and evocative landscapes. From immersive art in a limestone quarry to walking in Van Gogh’s footsteps, this trio of destinations makes for a day packed with beauty, reflection, and ancient echoes.

Begin your morning in Les Baux-de-Provence, a stunning medieval fortress village dramatically set atop a rocky outcrop. Wander its cobbled lanes, explore the castle ruins, and marvel at the sweeping views of olive groves and limestone ridges. But the true highlight is hidden beneath the surface: Carrières de Lumières, an immersive multimedia art experience inside a former bauxite quarry. Masterpieces by artists like Monet, Klimt, or Dali are projected across cave walls, floors, and ceilings—set to music, the effect is mesmerizing and deeply moving. Check the current theme and book tickets in advance, especially in summer.

Next, head to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, a town that’s both lively and quietly poetic. This is where Vincent van Gogh was institutionalized in 1889 at Saint-Paul de Mausole, a former monastery and psychiatric hospital. During his yearlong stay, he painted over 150 works—including The Starry Night, Irises, and Wheatfield with Cypresses. Today, you can walk through the Van Gogh trail, a gentle path marked with reproductions of his paintings placed where he once stood. Visiting Saint-Paul itself is a moving experience; the gardens, chapel, and Vincent’s recreated room offer a glimpse into his fragile but brilliant world.

If time allows, make a short detour to Arles, just 30 minutes away. Once a major Roman city, it’s home to an amphitheatre, a Roman forum, and the Alyscamps necropolis. Though not covered in detail here, Arles is worth exploring for its UNESCO-listed Roman ruins and as another stop on Van Gogh’s Provençal path.

Notes from the Road:

• Driving: Saint-Saturnin to Les Baux: ~1 hr; Les Baux to Saint-Rémy: ~15 min; to Arles: ~30 min
• Parking: Paid lots at Les Baux (base of the hill); Saint-Rémy has public lots near the Van Gogh trail
• Ticket Tip: Book Carrières de Lumières online to skip queues
• Food Tip: Stop at a local olive oil mill between Les Baux and Saint-Rémy for tastings

Day 6: Avignon & Pont du Gard
Popes, Bridges, and a Dip into Antiquity

After a few days in countryside villages, Day 6 brings you back to the urban and historical core of Provence: Avignon, once the seat of Western Christianity, and home to some of the region’s most magnificent architectural wonders. Start your morning with a visit to the Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in Europe and a powerful reminder of the 14th-century Papal era when Avignon was the Vatican of its time. Walk through vast ceremonial halls, climb up to the terraces, and take in views over the Rhône River.

Just nearby is the Pont Saint-Bénézet, better known as the Pont d’Avignon, the legendary bridge that partially spans the river. The bridge’s remains are atmospheric, and the interactive exhibits at the visitor center make the story behind it engaging and easy to grasp.

By early afternoon, drive 30 minutes west to reach one of Provence’s most iconic landmarks: Pont du Gard. This ancient Roman aqueduct bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was built in the 1st century AD to carry water to Nîmes. Towering at nearly 50 meters, it’s a marvel of Roman engineering and surprisingly interactive—you can walk across the lower tiers, hike trails through the surrounding garrigue landscape, or even swim and kayak in the river below, a favorite summer activity for both locals and visitors. Bring a swimsuit and towel if visiting in the hotter months, and settle in for a leisurely afternoon picnic and dip.

Whether you’re here for history, photography, or a riverside siesta, Pont du Gard is where the grand scale of the Roman Empire meets the languid pace of Provençal life.

Notes from the Road:

• Driving: Saint-Rémy to Avignon: ~30 min; Avignon to Pont du Gard: ~30 min
• Parking: Ample parking at Pont du Gard (ticket includes entrance and museum)
• What to Bring: Bring water shoes—the riverbed can be rocky!
• Food Tip: Grab a packed lunch from Avignon’s Les Halles market before heading out

Day 7: Marseille or Cassis
Choose Your Ending: Coastal Energy or Seaside Calm

For your final day in Provence, you have two stunning options—each offering a completely different flavor to end your journey. Will it be Marseille, France’s most eclectic and culture-rich port city? Or the sun-kissed serenity of Cassis, a pastel coastal gem hugged by limestone cliffs?

If you choose Marseille, begin at the Old Port (Vieux-Port) where fishing boats, markets, and waterfront cafés buzz with energy. Visit the striking MuCEM, explore the historic Panier district, and take in panoramic views from Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde. Marseille is gritty, dynamic, and deeply multicultural—offering a dramatic, full-circle contrast to the sleepy hilltop villages of the Luberon. It’s also a major travel hub, perfect if you’re continuing your journey by train, ferry, or flight. (And yes—stay tuned, I’ll be writing a full Marseille guide soon!)

Prefer to keep things quiet? Head to Cassis, a postcard-perfect fishing village just under an hour from Marseille. Stroll the harbor, enjoy a seafood lunch, and book a boat tour of the Calanques, steep fjord-like inlets that line the coast. Swimming, hiking, or simply gazing at the turquoise water—it’s the essence of Provençal summer.

Whichever ending you choose, Day 7 is about reflection and relaxation. Let us know in the comments—did you go urban or coastal? And if you extended your stay in Marseille or set off to the Côte d’Azur, I’d love to hear where the road took you next!

Notes from the Road:

• Driving: Pont du Gard to Marseille or Cassis: ~1.5 hrs
• Boat Tip: For Calanques tours, book in advance, especially in July–August
• Food Tip: In Cassis, try the local white wine with grilled sea bream or bouillabaisse

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