Explore essential travel tips for your visit to Provence. Learn about local customs, market etiquette, and cultural insights, with recommendations for enjoying wine tastings, lavender fields, and authentic Provençal experiences.
Book Ahead for Lavender Season
If visiting for the lavender fields, plan your trip between late June and mid-July and book accommodation early, as it’s peak tourist season.
Visit Local Markets
Provençal markets are a must-see. Aix-en-Provence and Arles have colorful markets with fresh produce, cheeses, and local specialties. Visit early for the best selection.
Provence’s open-air markets are a big part of local culture. It’s customary to greet vendors with a polite “Bonjour” and engage in friendly conversation before buying.
Bring home high-quality Provençal products like lavender sachets, olive oil, savon de Marseille (famous soap), and rosé wine from local vineyards.
Pack for the Weather
Provence can be hot in summer and cool in the evenings. Bring light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat for summer, but pack layers for cooler months.
Explore Beyond the Tourist Spots
While towns like Aix-en-Provence and Avignon are popular, don’t miss smaller villages like Gordes, Roussillon, and Lourmarin for a more authentic Provençal experience.
Wine and Olive Oil Tasting
Provence is known for its rosé wine and olive oil. Take time to visit local vineyards and olive oil producers for tastings.
Provence’s rosé wine is world-famous. Plan visits to vineyards in the Côtes de Provence region, especially during harvest season in late summer.
Lavender Honey
Try the region’s unique lavender honey, produced by bees in the lavender fields of Provence, known for its light and floral flavor.
Truffle Season
Provence is famous for its black truffles. Visit in winter (November to March) for truffle markets and tastings, especially in the Vaucluse area.
Don’t Miss the Hiking Trails
Provence offers stunning hikes, including the Gorges du Verdon and the Calanques near Marseille. Bring appropriate footwear if you plan to explore these areas.
Respect Siesta Times
Many shops and restaurants close in the afternoon between 12:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Plan your day accordingly.
Explore by Bike
Provence has scenic cycling routes, especially around the Luberon and Ventoux areas. Renting a bike is a great way to see the countryside.
Roman Heritage
Provence is rich in Roman history. Don’t miss the well-preserved Pont du Gard aqueduct and Arles Amphitheatre, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Colorful Ochre Cliffs
Visit the Ochre Cliffs of Roussillon, where vibrant red, yellow, and orange hues create a stunning landscape, historically used for pigment production.
Mistral Winds
Provence is famous for the Mistral, a strong, cold wind that sweeps through the region, particularly in winter and early spring. It’s known for keeping the skies clear and bright.
Respecting Nature
Provence’s natural beauty is cherished, so respect the lavender fields, olive groves, and vineyards. Don’t walk through or damage these areas when visiting.
