
When most travelers hear Provence, they think of the Lubéron of Peter Mayle fame, with rolling lavender fields and quirky locals. And while this bucolic reverie of blue skies and intimate hilltop villages does exist, the vast region offers much more to discover: Michelin-starred restaurants and lovely vineyards (and rosés!)—not to mention antique markets and renowned artists—from Cézanne and Picasso to the Carrières de Lumières.
-
Perfect forArt Lovers | Families | Foodies | Romantics | Ultimate Indulgers
-
When to goJune-August | September-November
-
Ideal length of stay1-2 Nights
Designing Your Journey
Work with Indagare to design the perfect itinerary for an immersive journey. Our travel experts know the destination inside and out, and they can make recommendations based on your travel needs and preferences.
3 Days: Essential Provence
In Provence, Indagare can arrange for customized tours of museums and markets and organize cooking classes and hiking tours. Here is just one example of what our destination experts can create for you.
Day 1: Aix-en-Provence
Begin in Aix, the birthplace of Paul Cézanne and a paradise for those who like to stroll its maze of streets and lively cafés, which are perfect for people-watching and leisurely coffee breaks. Art aficionados should not miss insider tours of two very special museums: the Atelier Cézanne, which has preserved everything as the master artist left it; and Musée Granet, which hosts a permanent collection of works by mostly French painters. After lunch at a classic local spot, spend the afternoon wandering through Aix’s maze of backstreets and the buzzing marketplace.
Day 2: Arles
Indagare can arrange a day trip to scenic Arles. Once a destination associated with haystacks, sunflower fields and Vincent Van Gogh, it has become one of Provence’s most charming cities. There are also several museums not to be missed in Arles, including the Musée Réattu for works by Leger, Dufy and Gauguin; and the Musée d’Arles for regional history and folklore. After lunch, browse the shop-lined Rue République, where you can pick up traditional Provençal antiques. Enjoy a massage and cocktails at your hotel before dinner at an Indagare-preferred restaurant.
Day 3: Cassis
Drive to Cassis, a lovely seaside town 18 miles east of Marseille, which has remained an unspoiled spot with crystalline coves, pebble beaches and windswept umbrella pines. Start the visit with a dip at the Plage du Bestouan, a pretty cove with a pebble beach, or hop aboard one of the glass-bottomed boats at the port for a tour of the area. If you’re in the mood for a longer walk, Cassis offers great hikes thanks to its dazzling white limestone cliffs, beloved by photographers. After lunch, shop for local delicacies, or take a half-day tour to the area’s best vineyards.
Where To Stay
We only feature hotels that we can vouch for first-hand. At many of them, Indagare members receive special amenities, including upgrades, early check-in, breakfast, spa credits and more. Look for the Indagare Plus logo in the reviews.
- Courtesy Villa La CosteRead More
Villa La Coste
At a Glance A modern art-and-design wonderland within a biodynamic wine estate in a corner of Provence, Villa La Coste is an extraordinary retreat and open-air museum. The property offers 28 sophisticated rooms emphasizing natural light—while the hundreds of acres...
- Read More
La Bastide de Marie
This refurbished country farmhouse, in a postcard-perfect setting, is conveniently located for touring the Lubéron.
- Read More
Hôtel de Crillon le Brave
Located in the heart of Côte du Rhone country, this rustic-but-stylish 32-room hideaway with a pool is extremely romantic.
- Courtesy La Divine ComédieRead More
La Divine Comédie
At a Glance This stylish guest house located in the heart of Avignon is a romantic oasis and a haven for design lovers.
- Read More
La Mirande
This established, historic hotel in the heart of Avignon is a great choice for couples or families who wish to step out their door and walk to sights and restaurants as well as explore the surrounding countryside, wineries and villages...