20 Unmissable Attractions in Provence

The Romans founded Cimiez in the hill above Nice and there are some wonderful remains of an arena and the baths. In the 18th century, Cimiez became home to many grand buildings and hotels to house the painters, artists and tourists who arrived to winter on the French Riviera. It’s a great place to roam for an afternoon, visiting Matisse‘s former home as well as the Museum of Chagall.

In the early summer you can spot lavender growing in vast purple fields across the length and breath of Provence, particularly in the Luberon district around Gordes. Head to the Lavender Museum to find out everything you need to know about Provence’s number one export.

Aix is called the “City of the Thousand Fountains”. No one has literally been able to count a thousand but they are at every intersection or roundabout. Read our guide here.

The hillside village of Bonnieux is a must-see on any tourist itinerary of the Luberon (the area in the north of Provence). The best view can be had sitting at one of the restaurants overlooking the stunning views.

Rousillon is another hillside village, distinct by its red ochre rock that used to be quarried here. It sits on the border of the National Park of Luberon.

Many people head directly to the Còte D’Azur when they arrive on the coast, towards Cannes, Nice or St Tropez. The Blue Coast is a great alternative and just as beautiful. It’s to the west of Marseille, rather than the east, and has beautiful calanques and little towns to explore.