The South Of France.
The word itself just hits different, right?
It conjures up images of lavender fields stretching for miles, sun-drenched rosé, and charming villages that look like they’ve been pulled straight from a fairytale.
But let’s be real, turning that dreamy Instagram aesthetic into an actual, doable road trip can feel… overwhelming.
The pressure to create the perfect itinerary is real, and the fear of missing out on a hidden gem is a low-key dread that can creep in.
WYD? (What you doing?) Stressing? Don’t. I’ve got you.
Consider this your ultimate cheat code to the most magical, unforgettable trip through the South of France.
We’re talking five days of pure bliss, hitting all the highlights without the frantic, over-planned vibe.
This is your guide to soaking it all in, from the vibrant cities to the quiet, lavender-scented backroads.
So, buckle up, grab your chicest pair of sunglasses, and get ready to dive into My 5-Day Road Trip Across Provence: South of France Highlights.
Day 1: Avignon & The Famous Bridge
Arriving in the Heart of Provence
We’re kicking things off in Avignon, a city that’s pure magic.
It’s the perfect place to ease into the Provençal rhythm.
The energy here is just electric a mix of ancient history and vibrant, modern life.
Your first stop has to be the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes).
This isn’t just some old building; it’s a massive, breathtaking Gothic fortress that basically tells the story of when the popes ditched Rome for France in the 14th century.
Walk through the grand halls and imagine the history that went down here. It’s a total power move.
An Afternoon of Exploring
After you’ve had your history fix, it’s time to wander.
Get lost in the city’s charming cobbled streets.
Every corner reveals another cute café or a hidden garden.
For the afternoon, head to the Pont d’Avignon (you know, from the song!).
While only a part of the bridge remains today, standing on it and looking out over the Rhône River is one of those pinch-me moments.
It’s an absolute must-do for your South of France Itinerary.
Day 2: The Luberon’s Most Picturesque Villages
Gordes and the Art of the View
Okay, prepare for your camera roll to explode.
Today we’re diving deep into the Luberon Valley, home to some of the most beautiful villages in France.
First up is Gordes.
This village is literally built into the side of a cliff, and the view as you approach is simply jaw-dropping.
Park your car and just walk. The winding, narrow streets are a dream.
Grab a coffee in the main square, browse the little artisan shops, and soak up the panoramic views of the valley below.
Pro tip: The best photo spot is from the viewpoint on the main road just before you enter the village. Trust me.
Roussillon’s Ochre Dreamscape
Next, we’re heading to Roussillon.
And let me tell you, this place is a total vibe.
The village is famous for its rich ochre deposits, which means all the buildings are painted in stunning shades of red, orange, and yellow.
It feels like you’ve stepped onto another planet.
Take the “Ochre Trail” (Sentier des Ocres), an easy walk that takes you through the former quarries.
The colors are unreal and make for some seriously instagrammable spots in Provence.
Day 3: Lavender Fields & The Grand Canyon of France
Valensole Plateau: A Purple Paradise
This is the day. The one you’ve been dreaming of.
We’re heading to the Valensole Plateau, the heart of Provence’s lavender region.
If you’re here from late June to mid-July, you’ll be greeted by an endless sea of purple.
The sight and the smell are just intoxicating.
Drive the main routes (D6 and D8 are fantastic) and don’t be afraid to pull over safely, of course! to get those iconic shots.
Many farms, like Lavandes Angelvin, let you walk through the fields and have adorable shops where you can buy essential oils and lavender-infused everything.
This is the peak Provence Lavender Fields experience.
Gorges du Verdon: A Splash of Turquoise
After you’re fully blissed out on lavender, it’s time for a change of scenery.
A short drive away is the Gorges du Verdon, France’s answer to the Grand Canyon.
The water is a shocking shade of turquoise blue, and it’s a total game-changer.
You can drive the scenic loop around the gorge, but the real magic happens when you get on the water.
Head down to the Pont du Galetas, where you can rent a kayak, paddleboat, or even a small electric boat to explore the entrance of the canyon.
It’s an epic way to spend the afternoon.
Day 4: Aix-en-Provence & A Taste of City Life
Market Day and Cézanne’s Footsteps
Let’s switch gears and head to the sophisticated city of Aix-en-Provence (just call it “Aix,” like the locals do).
If you can time your visit for a market day (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays are the big ones), you’re in for a treat.
The Cours Mirabeau, a stunning tree-lined avenue, comes alive with stalls selling fresh produce, local cheeses, flowers, and textiles.
Aix was also the hometown of the painter Paul Cézanne.
You can follow a trail of “C” studs on the pavement to walk in his footsteps, visiting his studio and other spots that inspired his work.
It’s a super cool way to see the city through an artist’s eyes.
This is a key highlight for any road trip through the South of France.
Day 5: Cassis & The Calanques
Seaside Charm
For our final day, we’re heading to the coast.
Cassis is a gorgeous little fishing village nestled on the Mediterranean.
The harbor is lined with pastel-colored buildings and bustling restaurants serving up the freshest seafood.
The vibe is relaxed, chic, and utterly perfect.
Spend the morning wandering the port, then find a spot for a long, leisurely lunch.
Order the fresh fish of the day and a crisp glass of local white wine (the vineyards around Cassis are famous for it).
Exploring the Calanques
The absolute can’t-miss activity here is exploring the Calanques National Park.
These are dramatic, fjord-like inlets with stunningly clear turquoise water, and they are breathtaking.
You can hike to them, but the best way to see them is by boat.
Take a boat tour from the port in Cassis they offer various lengths, but even a 45-minute trip will give you a fantastic overview.
For the more adventurous, a hike to Calanque de Port-Pin is totally manageable and rewards you with a beautiful, secluded beach.
It’s the perfect way to end your 5-Day Provence Adventure.
Wrapping It Up
Okay, let’s bring it in.
Five days might not seem like a long time, but this itinerary is designed to give you the perfect taste of everything Provence has to offer from its historic cities and charming hilltop villages to its iconic lavender fields and stunning coastline.
You’ve got the ultimate road map to create a trip that feels both epic and effortlessly cool.
Now go forth and live out your South of France dreams. You totally got this.
