THE BEST CITIES AND TOWNS TO VISIT IN PROVENCE

Last Updated on 28th February 2026 by Bejal

Provence is a large region and deciding where to visit can be quite an overwhelming task, with so many beautiful and captivating sights to discover. Although Provence is has many with stunning villages, chateaus and vineyards, the cities and towns to visit in Provence have a great hustle and bustle about them in terms of culture, history, a range of dining opportunities as well as wonderful places to stay. Think quintessential road side cafe seats, daily-life scenes unfolding right in front of you with lots of people watching.

From Marseille, the oldest city in Provence, that sees many visitors (including seasonal cruise ships) through to the Roman draws in Orange and Arles which is well-known for it’s connection with Van Gogh, Provence has much to over in terms of diverse cities,

This guide to some of the best cities and towns to visit in Provence intends to give a little introduction to help with building your own itinerary and decide where is best for you to include. All of the towns on the way are great bases, with wonderful accommodation options, depending on what your interests are. 

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Map: Cities and Towns To Visit In Provence

Click on this map to be taken to the full Provence Google Map which includes where the featured cities in the region are located.

Cities And Towns To Visit In Provence

Marseille

Where it is: Marseille, a port city in southern France, has been a point of immigration and trade since it was founded by the Greeks around 600 B.C l Map Location.

The capital of the South of France, Marseille has in the past earnt itself a bit of a distasteful reputation  however in recent years it’s a much desired Mediterranean city with a plethora of cultural spots, fine museums as well as great neighborhoods historical and new,  to wander through.  A  lot of money has been invested in this port city as a whole and we’d say it’s a not to be missed destination when visiting Provence and the south of France. The chances are that if you are visiting much of Provence, the best international airport to fly through is Marseille.

Marseille is known to be the oldest town in France,. The city’s history is still present and there is lots of it around, within its architecture-filled streets and churches. It’s apparent there is a lot of urban regeneration happening in Marseille.

The district of Le Panier is Marseille’s oldest neighborhood and holds some of the city’s most traditional building styles. The colourful and vibrant street art scene, blends seamlessly with the colourful cafes and shop fronts as well as the narrow streets dressed in floral and greenery. 

The area is worth a visit to discover the cool hipster food spots, markets as well as the ‘Escaliers du Cours Julien’ which are regularly covered in street art. 

Le Roucas Blanc, which translates to the white rock. is a more upmarket area, where a  thermal spa was created when water came to the city. It is most definitely worth the steep climb for the reward of the views, which are said to be some of the best in the city by locals.

Vieux-Port or the old port is a must when in Marseille and great for promenading along to see the yachts as well as the MUCEM (Museum of Civilisations of Europe and the Mediterranean) for a cultural fix in the city in a modern building surrounded by the port and fort.

As with all cities, being sensible is key, it is advisable not walking out too late at night and opting for a taxi after dark post dinner. Behave as you would in any large European city, have an open mind and be sure to take in the surroundings and local spots for food and drinks

Top Things To Do In Marseille

• MUCEM – culture vultures can learn all about the Mediterranean history throughout time.
• Le Panier – Discover the street art, cafes and history of the city.
• Chateau d’If – take a boat to the castle on an island.
• Visit Marseille Cathedral near the Vieux-port and climb the hill to Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde. 
• Fontaine du Palais Longchamp – go for a daytime stroll.
• Vallon des Auffes – fishing village for drinks or dinner.

Our Pick Of Tours To Book in Marseille

What To Eat In Marseille

• Bouillabaisse – traditional Provençal fish soup.
• Panisse – crispy chickpea chips served with aioli.
• Pastis – a high alcohol anise-flavoured liquor served with water and ice.
• Navettes – dry sweet biscuits that are boat shaped.

Where To Eat In Marseille

• Chez Les FonFons – for great Pasti, Charcuterie boards  and drinks with a view.
• Les Navettes des Accoules – Family run authentic navette bakery.
• Chez Jeannot – great pizza with a view.
• MX Maison Yellow – French tapas in the old docks buildings.
• Alcyone at the Intercontinental –  One of the best Bouillabaisse in Marseille 

Where To Stay In Marseille

• Alex Hotel & Spa – Boutique hotel with cool vibes located opposite the train station.
• InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu – Sheer luxury and great views.
• La Residence du Vieux Port – incredible panoramic views of the old port.

Avignon

Where it is: Avignon, a city in southeastern France’s Provence region, is set on the Rhône River I Map Location.

This Papal city, in our opinion is the best base for exploring Provence or brilliant to spend some time getting to know the history, charm and elegance of a medieval old city.

Avignon is a a beautiful university city filled with an almost pastel palette of colours surrounded by palatial buildings and so much incredible history. The whole of the centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its no wonder as it is home to a few of the most well known sites in France, such as the Palais des Papes (Pope’s Palace)  and the Pont d-Avignon.

Even those who may not be so interested in history, you will fall in love with Avignon. It has a stunning riverside location, beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces, squares filled with bustling cafes and bistros and wonderful alleyways lined with boutique shops. 

Avignon exudes a village style vibe yet also feels quite high end at the same time especially within the medieval city walls or ramparts. The historical centre is picture perfect.

Top Things to do in Avignon

• Palais des Papes – learn about Avignon’s Papal history.
• Pont d’Avignon  – walk across to get a feel for this half deconstructed bridge.
• L’île de la Barthelasse – Take a ferry to discover the vineyards and farms.
• Rocher des Doms – These gardens have a wonderful sunset view of the surroundings.

Our Pick Of Tours To Book in Avignon

// Related Post: The best photo spots in Avignon with a full city guide

What To Eat In Avignon

• Croissants – head to the best local croissant shop in Avignon. 
• Fresh Artisan Produce – Les Halles D’Avignon serves the best fresh produce.
• Aperitifs – Head to one of the bars in the squares for some people watching and wine.
• Seasonal Fine Dining – Exquisite cuisine (1 Michein-Star + 1 Green Star).

Where To Eat In Avignon

• La Mirande Le Restaurant – Seasonal fine dining fair and great vegetarian tasting menus.
• Mama Corsica – Traditional Corsican food where the locals like to hang out.
• L’Agape – mid range dining with a Bib Gourmande and excellent menu.
• Au Coeur des Vin – Excellent wine bar serving charcuterie boards and small plates.

Where To Stay In Avignon

• La Mirande – The ultimate in luxury and special occasion stays.
• Hotel d’Anglettere – mid range tasteful modern boutique hotel.
• Hotel Garlande – Beautifully decorated 11 room hotel.

// Related Post: 14 Beautiful Historic Places to stay in Avignon

Aix-en-Provence

Where it is: Aix-en-Provence is a university city in the Provence Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of southern France. It was the birthplace of Post-Impressionist painter Paul Cézanne. It’s a city and commune in southern France, about 30 km (20 miles) north of Marseille. I Map Location.

The locals refer to the city as Aix and most definitely has a chilled laid back air about it. It is also a great option to use as a base due to its range of restaurants, things to do and location. In fact Aix was once the capital of the region of Provence. It is still involved in lots of cultural activities and events.

Aix has a large number of cultural events scheduled for the year and also has many museums and galleries as well as exhibitions. Unfortunately on a short visit it was hard to fit these in!

The centre of Aix, is really where it all happens and where its the busiest. They have a daily farmers market on  Place Richelme where local producers showcase and sell farm fresh fruit and veg, cheeses as well as numerous stalls with the most gorgeous flowers. 

Aix is also known as the ‘city of a thousand fountains’, so don’t forget to throw a coin into one and make a wish!

Be-lavie Tip: Aix is the birthplace of post-Impressionist painter Paul Cézanne. A walking trail links sites including his childhood home, Jas de Bouffan, and his former studio, Atelier Cézanne. The white limestone mountain Sainte-Victoire overlooking the city formed his subjects and inspiration to paint.

Top Things To Do in Aix-en-Provence

• Hôtel de Caumont – A historical mansions with some great art pieces.
• Markets – have a wander around the markets and get to know the locals.
• Atelier de Cezanne – visit the famous artists studio.
• Cathedral St. Sauveur – view the famous painting, ‘The burning bush’.
• Cours Mirabeau – walk along the main street and check out the stalls.

Our Pick Of Tours To Book in Aix-en-Provence

What To Eat In Aix-en provence

• Calissons – Aix’s world renowned confectionary.
• Tapenade – a fine mix of olives and capers as a great dip.

Where To Eat In Aix-en-Provence

• Chez Biscote & Biscotte – we loved our madeleines and pain au chocolat.
• A Casa Bianca – great for lunch with Charcuterie and cheese boards with Corsican wine.
• Les Deux Garçons – One of Cezanne’s old haunts, try the Provencal Rose.
• Le Bistrot – Classic French cuisine using local ingredients.

Where To Stay In Aix-en-Provence

• Les Quatre Dauphins– A three star hotel set in. a former mansion.
• Renaissance Aix-en-Provence Hotel – A five star luxury hotel, centrally located yet secluded.
• La Maison D’Aix – charming, yet old boutique hotel located three minutes form the Cours Mirabeau.

Saint Rémy-de-Provence

Where it is: Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a commune in the Bouches-du-Rhône department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region. It is about 20 km (12 miles) south of Avignon, just north of the Alpilles mountain range l Map Location .

Saint Rémy-de-Provence nestled in the Alpilles, has a very village feel about it. It is widely known for its association with Van Gogh. He lived in the town for a year and painted a large proportion of his famous artwork.

The town resembles a Van Gogh painting as you stroll around the streets, it will become apparent why he found so much inspiration here. A very well put together tidy town, with co-ordinating pastel shuttered windows, manicured flower boxes, restored buildings and an example of what one would think a typical Provençal town would look like. It is such a beautiful place to visit and a must do.

Enjoying an al fresco breakfast is such a treat here, in one of the open squares, amongst boutiques, stalls and if you’re lucky, you may even spot celebrities who love hanging out in Saint Rémy-de-Provence.

Spend the days hanging out at historical sites and immersive yourself in the local vineyards and olive groves as well as attending the many concerts and exhibitions that happen during the summertime.

Top Things To Do In Saint Rémy-de-Provence

• Promenade dans l’Univers de Vincent Van Gogh walk the trail of sights that inspired the artists artworks.
• Alpilles Museum – Architecture lovers will be in awe.
• Glanum – was once an important city in the Roman empire and its well preserved remains sit at the southern entrance to Saint-Rémy de Provence. The ancient city dates back to the 2nd century BC.
• Transhumance – Celebrate this festival in late may where sheep are taken to higher pastures to graze for the summer.
• Markets – Head to the Wednesday morning market. 

What To Eat In Saint Rémy-de-Provence

•  Joel Durand Chocolatier – boutique chocolate shop with experimental flavours using local ingredients like lavender and thyme.
• Confiserie Lilamand – family owned confectioners for five generations, specialising in candied fruit.
• La Maison du Bon Cafe – the place to pick up some freshly roasted coffee.

Where To Eat In Saint Rémy-de-Provence

• The Beau Bar – Serves wonderful breakfast options and alcoholic beverages throughout the day.
• Hôtel de Tourrel’s – One Michelin star and the accolade of the best restaurant in town. The young chef, Jeremy Scalia is innovative and they have some outstanding bottles of wine in their cellars.
• Le Marilyn – a modern-style brasserie which serves great locally-sourced ingredients at good-value price points.
•  Le Café de la Place – using classic-high quality ingredients, this place is no frills and the live jazz just elevated it up a notch.

Where To Stay In Saint Rémy-de-Provence

• Le Pigonnet– 18th century luxury mansion house hotel with stunning grounds
• Le Petit Hotel – A small hotel with a secret garden, pool and terrace – perfect in summer.
• La Masion du Village – A pretty sustainability-focussed guest house in the centre of town.

L’isle-Sur-La-Sorgue

Where it is: L’isle-Sur-La-Sorgue is a Provençal  town in the department of Vaucluse, southeast France. It is 25 km east of Avignon I Map Location .

A picture perfect market town, that translates to ‘island on the Sorgue’. It isn’t’ actually an island but does have the river Sorgue running through it. The canals also traverse through the town. It is sometimes referred to as ‘the Venice of Provence’.

L’isle-Sur-La-Sorgue is well know for being the antiques capital of Provence and has quite the reputation to shop in Brocantes, or second hand shops. Antique shops are open throughout the year but on Sundays you will also see antiques dealers lined along the streets in the centre.

Historically the town is known for its textile manufacture with mills that are dotted round the centre as a legacy of its passed.

L’isle-Sur-La-Sorgue is a perfect place to hangout on weekends, stroll through the streets and have some lunch at one of many restaurants along the canal.

Top Things to do in L’isle-Sur-La-Sorgue

• Antiques shopping – wander the shops and stalls.
• Fontaine de Vaucluse – See the  source of the river Sorgue. (short drive away).
• Brun de Vian-Tiram Museum – History into wool-making.
• Salade Niçoise – enjoy a lovely salad in one of the river side restaurants.
• Walk over the wooden bridges.
• Get lost in the cobbled-stone streets and alleyways leading to pretty door openings and hidden squares.
• Notre-Dame-des-Anges Collegiate Church – founded in 2012, it’s well worth a visit.

What To Eat in L’isle-Sur-La-Sorgue

• Salads – the town serves some incredible salads and lite bites. 
• Traditional Provencal Cuisine – look for small tucked away cafes and bistros.

//Related Post: Dining In Provence including traditional Provencal Dishes

Where To Eat In L’isle-Sur-La-Sorgue

• L’Instant Appy – Great for light bites and lunch, think salad bowls, coffee, soups.
• Bar à Vin Sous la Robe – close to the river and great cafe for drinks.
• Restaurant Bella Vita – affordable fresh food and great for vegetarians.

Where To Stay In L’isle-Sur-La-Sorgue

• La Maison Sur La Sorgue – a 17th century house with charming decor.
• Le Clos Violette – A small 11 room boutique hotel in the heart of L’isle-Sur-La-Sorgue.
• La Chapelle Sur La Sorgue – A beautiful small hotel with well-kept gardens and a pool.

Nîmes

Where is it: Nîmes, a city in the Occitanie region of southern France, was an important outpost of the Roman Empire. It’s known for well preserved Roman monuments such as the Arena of Nîmes, a double-tiered circa-70 A.D I Map Location.

You may be mistaken in thinking you’re in Rome when you step foot in Nîmes. It used to be a part of the Roman Empire under the rule of Emperor Augustus. With a history dating back to the sixth century BC but what is very unique about Nîmes is that you never really know when you’ll literally bump into a Roman ruin. The kind of architecture you see in the rest of France, like in Paris, in the Louvre is heavily accompanied by Roman marvels, all thanks to the Empire that ruled here in ancient times.

Top Things To Do In Nîmes

• Museum of Roman Civilisation – gathers the towns Romans assets under one roof.
• Museum of Contemporary Art  – A must for those who love and have an appreciation for art.
• Roman Building across Nimes – Include Maison Carre (the former Roman forum), and the Tour Magne, an 18m stone watchtower located in the Jardins de la Fontaine.
• Amphitheatre of Nimes – Resembles the Colosseum in Rome.
• A self-guided walking tour – (grab a map from the tourist bureau in the centre).

Our Pick Of Tours To Book in Nîmes

What To Eat In Nîmes

NImes has many speciality meat based dishes but there are plenty of vegetarian alternatives around if you ask.

• Croquant Villaret – long golden biscuits with a special texture and secret flavour.
• Petit pâté nîmois – A small pastry case filled with meat.
• Gardianne de taureau – bulls meat marinated in local Nimes wine.
• Brandade de Nimes – a purée of salt cod with olive oil and a little milk.

Where To Eat In Nîmes

• L’Imprevu – great quality, well-priced cafe brasserie style local cuisine.
• Le Vintage – Lovely bar au vins with a great atmosphere and wonderful selection of wines.
• Le Petit Moka – Coffee shop and tea salon to enjoy a croque Monsieur.
• Le Cheval Blanc – local food in a brasserie style right by the amphitheatre.

Where To Stay In Nîmes

• Jardins Secrets – Tuscan style villa, the epitome of luxury.
• Bien Loin d’Ici Spa B&B – Lovely Bed & Breakfast with parking and a pool. 
• Villa Meridia – sustainable bed and breakfast with a mid range price point.

Arles

Where its is: Arles is a city on the Rhône River in the Provence region of southern France. It’s famed for inspiring the paintings of Van Gogh I Map Location .

Arles can often be a second thought to some for the more larger towns and cities in the region but Arles really does celebrate its renaissance of culture with a bit of face lift which makes it rather appealing! Just like in the era of renaissance it has many arty draws and events.

Van Gogh also lived in the Arles for just over a year which went on to gain his great fames. A city which was once occupied by Romans in the 1st century BC and built an arena, thermal baths, a theatre and a hippodrome. You won’t see all of these still intact in Arles but this is where the modern day city, the one we see today originates from.

Arles is known as the ‘gateway to the Camargue’ so it’s worth spending at least a full day here to really get to know the city. Maybe stay in the town and take a day trip to see the wetlands, wildlife and nature filled surroundings but spend another day exploring the city. It has a nice mix of old and new buildings.

Top Things To do In Arles

• Musée de l’Arles antique – Modern museum worth a visit.
• Cryptoportiques – explore the underground world by a guided tour.
• Ancient Roman Theatre – take a tour to learn its history.
• L’espace Van Gogh – see the inspiration behind the painting,’ le jardin de la maison de santé à Arles’.
• Take a self-guided walking tour of Van Gogh’s favourite spots.
• Musée de l’Arles antique – visit this modern museum of antiques.

Our Pick Of Tours To Book in Arles

What To Eat In Arles

• Gambetta – a plant syrup.
• Fougasse – a traditional local bread.
• Tomme d’Arles – Local cheese.
• Arles tart – a sweet tart with apricots and strawberries.
• Agriade – beef stew for the carnivores.
• Raïto – tomato sauce with capers and red wine.

Where To Eat In Arles

• Le Bigouden – a bistro with seating overlooking L’espace Van Gogh. They serve great galettes, particularly filled with ratatouille and Emmental cheese.
• Mon Bar -A bar-tobacconist-brasserie with fresh dishes of the day and relaxed vibes.
• La Bodequita – An Iberian restaurant very popular with the locals in Arles.

Where To Stay In Arles

• L’Hôtel Particulier Arles – a special luxury five star hotel and restaurant. 
• Jules César – 17th century property designed by Christian Lacroix (born in Arles).
• Hôtel de l’Amphithéâtre – lovingly restored 17th-century house, good -value option.

Orange – Cities And Towns To Visit In Provence

Where is it: Orange is a commune in the Vaucluse department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region in Southeastern France. It is about 21 km north of AvignonI Map Location

Orange is a little bit of a gem, despite its Roman attractions and architecture, it isn’t on the usual tourist trails to visit – all the more reason to discover it and enjoy it tourist free, well almost!

Thousands of spectators descend in the ancient amphitheatre to watch the Chorégies d’Orange festival which dates back to 1860.

This leafy town with pretty flowers lining many of the streets is the perfect place to roam, pop into boutiques and head to the city’s parks. It may not be the prettiest town in Provence but the old town streets look perfect against the backdrop of some of the Roman ruins that sit proud in the city full of so many treasures.

Top Things To To In Orange

• Musee Aeronautique d’Orange – french military history, great for aviation enthusiasts.
• Amphitheatre (Theatre Antique d’orange) – worth a visit to marvel the structure from inside.
• Arc de Triomphe – take in the vastness of the arch ruins.

Our Pick Of Tours To Book in Orange

What To Eat In Orange

• Omelets aux truffes – local truffle omelette with salad and bread. 

Where to eat in Orange

• Les Comptoir des Gourmets– pick up some picnic items for lunch and sit at one of the open spaces and enjoy the fresh delicatessen style artisan food.
• Au Salon du Charlotte – great wine bar for a glass or two of Provencal rose. 
• La Grotte – A real local haunt with a great menu and fab service.

Where To Stay In Orange

• Hôtel Le Glacier – Set right in the centre of Orange, includes a great breakfast.
• L’herbier d’ Orange – a two star hotel right behind the central, Theatre Antique. 
• Grand Hotel d’Orange, BW Signature Collection – luxury surroundings and grounds.

Round-Up: Cities And Towns To Visit in Provence

There are many more cities and towns to visit in Provence, this guide serves as a snapshot of eight that are relatively easy to travel to, especially with a hire car or public transport (not always the best option). They can all be used as bases to explore the surrounding area, however, Avignon or Aix-en-Provence are the best centrally located cities to discover much of the region.

Each of the cities and towns has their own personality and points of interest, which depend very much on the travellers preferences, from Roman ruins in the form of Amphitheatres and columns to pretty pastel coloured shuttered cobbled stoned streets. Provence is definitely a region full of surprises.

Related Articles: Cities And Towns To Visit in Provence

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