Conquered by Rome in 1st century BC, Provence has a wealth of Roman architectural gems. Harness your inner gladiator in the Arènes of Nimes and Arles, both modeled after Rome’s renowned Coliseum. Be awed by the Théâtre Antique and the Arc de Triomphe – two UNESCO sites in Orange. Make like an archeologist in the ancient villages of Glanum and in Vaison-la-Romaine. Ogle the majestic Pont du Gard aquaduct.
The great outdoors is always within reach in Provence cities. Cycle and visit farms on Avignon’s ÎIe de la Barthelasse, France’s largest river island. Spot flamingos, ride horses, and visit marshes in the wild Camargue near Arles. Stroll Toulon’sSentier des Douaniers coastal path to blissful beaches. Hike the Aix’s Montagne Sainte-Victoire, the sacred mountain that inspired Cézanne. Marseille’s breathtaking limestone cliffs, the Parc National des Calanques, are best seen by boat or by foot.
Provence is most alluring and authentic in its villages. Along the coast, postcard perfect Cassis charms with its small port while laidback luxe Saint-Tropez is a beach and sailing paradise. Head inland to medieval villages, where Uzès Wed. and Sat. market and Les Baux de Provence’s hillside château are not to be missed. Earthenware capital Moustiers-Ste-Marie is delightfully nestled besides the Gorges du Verdon. The perched village of Roussillon dazzles with its vibrant ochre hues.
Provence’s art spaces are more than just museums. The artistic hub Luma Arles is housed in a former 19th-century railyard. Hike through the Unesco Geopark of Haute Provence’s outdoor museum where sculptures beautifully commune with nature. Marvel at Marseille’s MUCEM, a lace-like concrete cube whose architecture is as stunning as the exhibits inside. Journey to the Fondation Carmignac, a new art space on the car-free Île du Porquerolles that encourages you to see the exhibits barefoot.
