Best Towns & Sights in Provence, France: Plus Nearby Gems Worth the Trip

Our slow travel, early morning style is something we love, so much so, we wrote a blog and 2 free downloadable travel guides on it, “Your Daily Slow Travel Planner + Bonus Slow Morning Blueprint” request your free copies at the top of the page or through one of our pop ups.

For more on the beautiful French countryside of Provence, checkout our upcoming blog posts, “4-Days in Provence, France: with detailed Itinerary”, and “Travel Guide to Provence, France: Where to Stay, Eat, & Essential Tips”.

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Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Best Towns & Sights in Provence, France
3. Helpful Travel Tips for Visiting Provence and Nearby Areas
4. References
5. The Wrap up

1. Introduction:

There’s something about Provence that feels instantly cinematic. Sun-drenched stone villages, endless lavender fields, bustling markets, and that slow, golden rhythm of life in the south of France—it’s a place that stays with you long after you leave.

This guide brings together some of the best towns in Provence, along with a couple of nearby gems just outside the region that are absolutely worth adding to your itinerary. While not all of these destinations fall strictly within Provence, they’re all easily accessible and commonly included in Provence travel routes—especially if you’re exploring by car.

Think of this as your mix of iconic stops, cultural highlights, and a few unforgettable detours. 

2. Best Towns & Sights in Provence, France:

1. Aix-en-Provence–

Elegant, lively, and effortlessly beautiful, Aix-en-Provence is one of the most charming cities in southern France. It’s known for its tree-lined boulevards, ornate fountains, and relaxed café culture.

The historic center is perfect for wandering—past pastel shutters, artisan shops, and bustling squares filled with local life. It’s also deeply connected to art and history, being the hometown of painter Paul Cézanne, whose influence still lingers throughout the city. Whether it’s a morning stop or a longer stay, Aix-en-Provence is well worth the visit.

Don’t miss:

• Morning markets at Place Richelme
• Walking Cours Mirabeau (with the Fontaine de la Rotonde at one end)
• Trying calissons (a local almond sweet)

      2. L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue-

Often called the “Venice of Provence,” L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is a charming town known for its canals, water wheels, and vibrant antique markets. Built along the Sorgue River, the town has a relaxed, picturesque feel with riverside cafés, shaded streets, and plenty of spots to wander or sit along the river. It’s especially famous for its antique shops and one of the largest flea markets in Europe, making it a must-visit for treasure hunters and vintage lovers.

Don’t miss:

• Sunday antique market
• Walking along the canals and water wheels
• Stopping at a riverside café for a relaxed lunch

     3. Camargue Regional Nature Park-

The Camargue feels like another world entirely from the small towns of Provence. Wide-open wetlands, salt flats, wild horses, and flocks of pink flamingos make this one of the most unique natural landscapes in France.

It’s raw, wild, and peaceful all at once, perfect to add a little nature into your trip.

Don’t miss:

• Flamingo spotting in the wetlands
• Sunset over the salt marshes
• Bird watching
• Wild horse spotting

4. Arles–

Arles blends Roman history with an artsy, modern edge. Its ancient amphitheatre still hosts events today, and the entire city feels like an open-air museum, one of our favourite towns.

It’s also closely linked to Vincent van Gogh, who created many of his most famous works here.

Don’t miss:

• Roman amphitheatre
• Van Gogh walking trail
• The Saturday market
• Wandering the side streets

     5. Avignon-

Avignon is one of the most historically important cities in the region, once serving as the seat of the Catholic popes. Its skyline is dominated by the impressive Palais des Papes. Another popular site here is the Pont Saint-Bénézet (or Pont d’Avignon) originally built in the 12^th century and spanned the Rhône River, but over the years between floods and wars the bridge had partially collapsed and never fully rebuilt, so today its 4 arches and chapel are a popular tourist site.

The city is full of history, cobbled streets, lively squares, and a vibrant cultural scene. A definite must-see when in Provence.

Don’t miss:

• Palais des Papes
• Walking the medieval city walls
• Pont Saint-Bénézet (Pont d’Avignon)

    6. Pont du Gard (Nearby Gem)-

Just outside of the Provence region by about 30mins west, is the Pont du Gard, one of the most impressive Roman structures in the world. This ancient aqueduct spans a dramatic river valley and showcases incredible Roman engineering.

Even though it sits in Occitanie Region, it’s a very popular day trip from Avignon and a highlight of many Provence itineraries.

Don’t miss:

• Walking across the aqueduct
• Taking photos from both sides of the aqueduct
• Visit nearby Vers-Pont-du-Gard for lunch
• View 1000 year old olive trees

    7. Saint-Quentin-la-Poterie (Nearby Hidden Gem)-

Only 20 mins SW of Pont du Gard is this quiet village which is a true hidden gem known for its long tradition of pottery and craftsmanship. Small studios and artisan workshops line its peaceful streets. As well, this quaint village has two weekly markets, Tuesday, and Friday mornings. We stayed here and loved it, as it’s not touristy or crowded like some of the other towns, making you feel emersed into the culture.

Interestingly, it’s said that tiles made here were used in the construction of the nearby Palais des Papes, in Avignon, linking this humble village to one of Provence’s grandest landmarks.

Don’t miss:

• Pottery workshops and studios
• Local artisan shops
• Wandering through the village side streets
• Visit on a market day

3. Helpful Travel Tips for Visiting Provence & Nearby Areas:

• Rent a car – many of these places are best explored by road.
• Start early or go late in the day – especially in summer to avoid crowds and heat.
• Base yourself in Avignon or Aix-en-Provence – both are great for day trips.
• Try local markets – they’re often the best place to eat cheaply and authentically.
• Plan extra time for “in-between” stops – Provence is all about slow travel, not rushing.
• Checkout our other blog posts on this beautiful region including, an Itinerary, and more tips & recommendations.

4. References:

For our Provence Travel Series, we created our best of, itinerary, and tips and recommendations from our own experiences we had while exploring this stunning region, as well we read the DK Eyewitness Travel Top 10 Provence and the Côtre d’Azur, which helped shape our adventure. In addition, we like to explore the official tourism websites, (Provence-alps-cotedazur.com) attraction sites, public transportation resources when needed (like buses, and ferries), and a few local food blogs to see what local foods piques your interest. Google Maps for driving and walking distances, and tour apps for any activities, like Get Your Guide, Viator or Expedia. We hope you find these best towns & sights, helpful when planning your own adventure to this beautiful region of France.

5. The Wrap Up:

Provence isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. Whether you’re wandering through the elegant streets of Aix-en-Provence, exploring ancient Roman history in Arles and Avignon, or escaping into the wild landscapes of the Camargue, every stop offers something different.

And when you add nearby gems like Pont du Gard and Saint-Quentin-la-Poterie, the experience becomes even richer.

The best way to explore this part of France is to slow down, take the scenic route, and let the region unfold naturally. Because in Provence, the magic is often found in the moments in between the “must-see” spots.

Our relaxed, early morning travel style is something we love, so much so, we wrote a blog and 2 free downloadable travel guides on it, “Your Daily Slow Travel Planner + Bonus Slow Morning Blueprint” request your free copies at the top of the page or through one of our pop ups.

Plan Better. Travel Slower. Capture More.        

Thank you,

Beth

Beth de Verteuil

Wild Meadow Studio

Plan. Travel. Capture.

www.wildmeadowstudio.com