Would you like to spend a week in the South of France but don’t know the best places to visit? This 7-day South of France itinerary has you covered! You’ll learn how to plan the perfect road trip in Provence and the French Riviera, visiting the most exciting spots and enjoying the best of the South of France.
The South of France is one of the most popular and exciting places in France and even in all of Europe. Every year, millions of tourists come to explore Provence and the French Riviera, and it’s no wonder why these places are so famous worldwide.
I’ve been going back to the South of France almost every year for many years now. It has become one of my favorite destinations because every time I visit, I find something new and amazing to discover.
Who wouldn’t want a European vacation where you can smell lavender fields in Provence, sail through Europe’s biggest canyon surrounded by stunning cliffs, and find beautiful seaside bays perfect for swimming, all while soaking up the real French lively atmosphere?
If you’re ready for a trip like this, with breathtaking beaches, colorful towns, hidden medieval villages, and exciting road trips full of unique sights, then this itinerary is made just for you.
Ready for a trip to the South of France?
Here are some quick recommendations on what to book for your trip:
Best places to stay:
- In Marseille: Crowne Plaza – Marseille Le Dôme
- Near Valensole: Villa Castellane
- In Nice: Maison Durante
- In Menton: Ibis Styles Menton Centre
Best things to do on this trip:
Over many years of traveling in France, I’ve visited so many places, and in this guide, I’ve gathered all my tips and experiences. My goal is to help you see the best spots, even if you only have one week in the South of France, so you can have a truly fun and memorable trip.
So, this 7-day Provence itinerary will show you the most interesting cities in the South of France, the beautiful countryside with lavender fields, the old villages in the Luberon region, the Verdon Gorge, and the main highlights of the French Riviera. I created this 7-day South of France itinerary to help you enjoy the best of Provence and the French Riviera.
First, I’ll give you a quick overview of what I think a perfect 7-day road trip in the South of France looks like. Then, I’ll take you through the trip day by day in detail. Finally, I’ll answer some common questions that many travelers ask about visiting the South of France.
So, let’s start with the overview:
Overview of the 7-Day South of France Road Trip
Day 1: Marseille
Day 2: Calanques
Day 3: Avignon and the Luberon region
Day 4: Valensole lavender fields and Verdon Gorge
Day 5: Nice
Day 6: Monaco
Day 7: Menton
Best time to travel: Summer, especially from late June to mid-July
Best way to get around: By car
Ideal trip length: 7 to 14 days
Top things to do: Sightseeing, hiking, boating, water sports, swimming, visiting lavender fields, wine tours
After this short overview, let’s look in detail at the best way to spend 7 days in the area so you can make the most of your trip to the South of France.
Detailed South of France itinerary: How to spend 7 days in Provence and the French Riviera
Here is the 7-day South of France itinerary I have personally tried myself.
I’ve included lots of info and photos for each stop to help you plan the best possible trip to Provence and the French Riviera.
We begin in Marseille on Day 1 and return there on Day 7, but you can easily swap days since distances between places in the South of France are relatively short. If you arrive by car, your first stop might be Avignon or Menton, so stay flexible with this itinerary.
Pro tip: In summer, try to visit Marseille on a weekend and plan visits to the Calanques National Park and Verdon Gorge on weekdays, reasons explained below. Overall, arriving on a weekend and leaving on a weekend works best. For example, start on Sunday (Day 1) and return on Saturday (Day 7).
So, here is my 7-day road trip itinerary for the South of France:
Day 1: Marseille
I started this 7-day South of France itinerary in Marseille because most flights land here.
Marseille is full of energy, history, and amazing views. It is the biggest city in Provence and the second largest in France, so there’s plenty to explore.
If you have a full day here, you can see the main sights without rushing.
Here are my favorite must-see spots:
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
This beautiful basilica sits at the highest point in Marseille. From here, you get the best panoramic views of the city and the sea. I recommend visiting early in the day to avoid crowds.
You can drive up and park nearby, or take the cute sightseeing mini-train called Les Petits Trains de Marseille.
After parking, there’s a short walk and some stairs to reach the top, but it’s totally worth it.
Old Port of Marseille
The Old Port is the heart of the city and perfect for a stroll.
From the north side of the port, you get a stunning view of the water, with the basilica sitting on the hill behind it.
Also, don’t miss the square in front of Église Saint Laurent church. It’s a bit of a climb up the stairs, but the view of the port is breathtaking. Great spot for photos.
Pro tip: If you’re driving in Marseille, avoid underground parking lots. There are many car break-ins reported, and local authorities don’t always handle them well. I recommend parking at your hotel or on the street during the day only.
Palais Longchamp
This is a gorgeous green park and palace right in the city center.
The 19th-century building has beautiful fountains, waterfalls, and arcades.
Walk up the stairs to visit two museums: the Museum of Fine Arts and the Natural History Museum.
The outdoor park is free and perfect if you want to relax or have a picnic.
Cathédrale La Major
Not far from the Old Port, this Neo-Byzantine cathedral is a must-see if you enjoy architecture.
It looks similar to Notre-Dame de la Garde, but is closer to the city center and easy to visit on foot.
Extra tip: If you find Marseille’s traffic or parking stressful, use public transport or join a sightseeing bus or mini-train tour to make your day easier. Also, don’t forget to explore local shops and try Marseille’s delicious food!
Where to stay near Marseille
If you want to stay in or near Marseille, here are some hotels that I recommend:
Day 2: Calanques
On Day 2, get ready to explore one of the most beautiful natural places in the South of France: the Calanques National Park. If you love the unique places, hiking, and beaches, you will enjoy this day a lot.
The Calanques are stunning limestone cliffs and deep, narrow bays with clear turquoise water. They lie along the Mediterranean coast between Marseille and Cassis. There are 26 calanques in the park, most only reachable by hiking or by boat.
You can hike on amazing trails, swim in the crystal-clear sea, try rock climbing, or take a boat ride to see the cliffs and bays from the water. I think, visiting the Calanques is a must if you are in Southern France.
I have visited 10 calanques myself and want to share the most spectacular ones with you:
- Calanque de Morgiou: About 3 km from the Redon district in Marseille, this calanque is perfect for hiking. The trail is a bit rough and hilly, so wear good shoes. If you prefer to just take photos, go to the nearby Belvédère de Sugiton lookout for great views.
- Calanque de Sugiton: Also reached from Redon by a 3 km hike. The cliffs here are steep, so I recommend visiting the Belvédère de Sugiton viewpoint to see the calanque from above.
- Calanque de Port-Miou: This is a beautiful calanque with a marina. There’s a big parking lot on the east side if you want to park and explore. You can rent boats or kayaks here to explore the area. Organized boat tours pass by but don’t stop here. It’s a great starting point to visit nearby calanques.
- Calanque de Port Pin: A popular calanque with a lovely beach for swimming in summer. You can reach it by a moderate hike from Port-Miou.
- Calanque d’En-Vau: This is the most famous and beautiful calanque, but it is hard to reach. It’s a 3–4 km hike from Port-Miou, passing Port Pin. Bring a swimsuit if you want to swim here. The nearby Belvédère d’En-Vau viewpoint offers breathtaking views of both En-Vau and the neighboring other calanque.
Since hiking can be tiring, I suggest choosing no more than three calanques to visit in one day. For example, you can hike to Morgiou and Sugiton, then drive to Port-Miou in Cassis. Or do a hiking tour of Port-Miou, Port Pin, and En-Vau.
In the evening, you can stay near Marseille or drive to Avignon to get ready for the next day’s adventures.
Day 3: Avignon and the Luberon Region
On Day 3, I recommend exploring the historic city of Avignon in the morning and then heading to the stunning Luberon region in the afternoon.
Morning: Avignon
Start your day in Avignon, a city full of history and charm.
Don’t miss the Pont Saint-Benezet, the famous old bridge over the Rhone River, even though only parts of it remain today.
Nearby is the impressive Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), a must-see medieval palace that shows the city’s rich past.
Afternoon: Luberon Region
After exploring Avignon, spend your afternoon in the beautiful Luberon region, famous for its rolling hills, medieval villages, and lavender fields during summer.
Some of the most charming villages you should visit are Sault, Roussillon, and Gordes.
- Sault is located at the foot of Mont Ventoux and is famous for its lavender fields in summer. If you’re visiting during lavender season, plan to spend extra time here and in nearby Ferrassières, which also has huge lavender fields.
If it’s not lavender season, and you’re short on time, it’s better to skip Sault and focus on the other two villages.
- Roussillon is known for its striking orange and yellow buildings that blend perfectly with the red clay soil around it. Be sure to walk the Sentier des Ocres (Ochre Trail), a colorful path through red rock formations. There’s a small entrance fee, and the walk takes about 30 to 50 minutes.
- Gordes sits on a hilltop and offers breathtaking panoramic views. Its winding streets are filled with stone houses and lovely flower gardens. Don’t miss the nearby Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, especially beautiful when lavender is in bloom. For an amazing photo of Gordes, check out the “Town View Point Gordes” on Google Maps.
If you didn’t get to see everything in this area, consider staying overnight and spending the next morning here.
If you saw everything you wanted, I suggest heading closer to the Day 4 destinations and staying near Valensole.
Where to stay near Valensole
In Valensole, there aren’t many places to stay, so tourists often look for accommodation in nearby towns like Manosque or Gréoux-les-Bains.
So, I suggest considering these options:
- Villa Castellane: A modern four-star hotel located in Gréoux-les-Bains, near Valensole
- Lou Paradou: A three-star hotel with more affordable rates, also situated in Gréoux-les-Bains
Day 4: Valensole & Verdon Gorge
On Day 4 of this South of France road trip, I combined two of the region’s most beautiful countryside destinations: Valensole and the Verdon Gorge. This day is all about incredible nature, blooming lavender fields, and wow-factor landscapes you won’t forget.
Morning: Lavender fields in Valensole
Start your day in Valensole, one of the most famous places in France for lavender. If you’re visiting between late June and mid-July, this is one of the best spots in the world to see blooming lavender fields. The countryside is covered in purple almost everywhere, it’s incredibly photogenic.
For the best lavender views, drive along Route D6 and D8.
Sometimes you can even catch the scent of lavender while driving, it’s a wonderful experience. You’ll pass massive fields where you can stop, take a walk, and snap as many photos as you want. It’s truly a dream if you love lavender or photography. You can also buy lavender products in many places.
Pro tip: If it’s not lavender season, or if you have some extra time, I recommend visiting Sisteron. It’s a scenic hilltop town with peaceful vibes and fantastic views — perfect for unique photos.
Also, nearby is Lac d’Esparron, a calm lake surrounded by mountains. It’s a great spot to unwind, especially if you want a quick swim or just a peaceful picnic by the water.
Afternoon: Verdon Gorge
In the afternoon, head to the Verdon Gorge (Gorges du Verdon), often called the Grand Canyon of Europe. Once you get there, you’ll see why: dramatic cliffs, turquoise water, and breathtaking views everywhere you look.
The Verdon River flows through the canyon and feeds into Lac de Sainte-Croix, a lake that’s perfect for water activities. Whether you’re into kayaking, swimming, paddle boating, or just want to relax by the shore, this is one of the best outdoor spots in Provence.
If you want the best views from above, drive along Route D952, and if you have time, take the scenic Route des Crêtes (D23). This loop has several epic viewpoints where you can stop and look down into the gorge. The views from the top are absolutely worth it.
Optional detours around the Verdon Gorge
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
If you have extra time, visit Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, one of the most charming medieval villages in Provence.
The village is built into the cliffs, with narrow streets, pastel-colored houses, and a peaceful atmosphere. Don’t miss the Pont de Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, where you’ll get amazing views of the rooftops and the surrounding landscape.
Quinson
Another great stop is Quinson, where you can hike along the river, enjoy water sports on the lake, or explore another section of the Verdon canyon. It’s less touristy and offers a quieter nature experience.
Cascade de Sillans
If you’re looking for a hidden gem, check out the Cascade de Sillans, a picturesque waterfall in the village of Sillans-la-Cascade. The trail starts from the village parking area and takes you to a gorgeous viewpoint. Not many tourists know about it, so it’s a peaceful little escape if you’re nearby.
Evening: Heading toward the Riviera
Since accommodation near the Verdon Gorge can be tricky to find, I recommend heading toward the French Riviera in the evening. Try to stay somewhere around Nice, so you’ll be in a perfect spot to continue your trip on Day 5.
Where to stay near Nice
Some places I recommend:
In Cagnes-sur-Mer:
In Nice:
Day 5: Nice and the French Riviera
Day 5 is all about the French Riviera.
Nice
Start the day in Nice, one of the most famous cities on the coast.
Take a walk around the old town and visit some of the main sights.
One of my favorites is the Grand Panorama de Nice, a viewpoint that gives you amazing views of the city. You’ll need to walk up a few stairs, but it’s worth it.
Also, don’t miss the port area, it’s a very colorful and great place to walk around.
Nice has a mix of styles. Its buildings look a bit more Italian than French, which makes it truly unique.
There are also nice places to visit in the city like:
- Colline du Château (a park with great views)
- Nice Cathedral
- Jardin Albert 1er (a peaceful garden)
- Fontaine du Soleil and Place Masséna.
If you feel like it, take a walk around the city center and check out some of these spots.
Also, if you’re in Nice and looking for a special place, I recommend checking out Le Plongeoir restaurant. You can go there for a meal, or just take photos from the outside. The restaurant is very photogenic and has become quite popular on social media lately.
I also recommend an Italian restaurant next to the harbor called GiGi Tavola. Even though we are in France, we had the best meals of our trip there twice. They also have gluten free options.
But if you’re more in the mood for something else, I can also recommend some beautiful places nearby to visit instead:
Optional destinations nearby
If you have more time in the afternoon, you can visit other places on the French Riviera:
- Èze: A hilltop village between Nice and Monaco. Èze is known for its narrow stone streets and amazing views of the sea. If you like pretty, old villages, this is a great choice.
- Cannes: Famous for the film festival, Cannes is a stylish city with fancy shops, palm-lined streets, and a nice beach. It’s a bit farther, but still possible as a half-day trip from Nice. For the best views of the city, go to Château de la Castre.
- Villefranche-sur-Mer: A small town very close to Nice. It has a beautiful bay, calm water, and colorful houses. It’s less busy than Nice and great for a half-day trip. If you’re here, don’t miss the Boulevard Napoléon III viewpoint.
No matter what you choose, Day 5 will be full of amazing views of the French Riviera, beautiful beaches, stunning cities, lovely seaside promenades, and interesting sights.
If you just want to relax, head down to the beaches in Nice. The city has wonderful beaches. Although it can be windy with big waves sometimes, the water is beautiful and warm in summer.
In the evening, stay again around Nice.
Day 6: Monaco
Day 6 is all about Monaco. Although Monaco is a very small, independent country, most people consider it part of the French Riviera. It is just about a half-hour drive from Nice, so it would be a shame to miss it if you are visiting the area.
Monaco offers a unique and special experience for visitors. The most famous place is the Monte Carlo Casino. This beautiful building attracts both people who love casinos and those who want to see stunning architecture inside and out.
Port Hercule, in the city center, is great for a walk and has amazing views of Monaco.
The old part of Monaco, called Monaco-Ville, is full of narrow streets and charming squares.
Families especially like the Oceanographic Museum there.
You can also visit the Prince’s Palace to learn more about Monaco’s history.
It’s important to note that driving in Monaco can be difficult because of frequent traffic jams. So make sure to give yourself enough time to explore.
It’s best to leave your car near Port Hercule. We usually use the Parking du Chemin des Pêcheurs.
One of my favorite viewpoints is called “Vue panoramique sur Fontvieille”. From there, you can see beautiful views of Port de Fontvieille and the mountains around. You can get similar views at the nearby Jardins Saint-Martin garden.
While walking around, don’t forget to visit the Cathédrale de Monaco.
Another personal favorite of mine is a viewpoint that might be one of the best on the entire Riviera. It’s a real hidden gem that not many people know about. From here, you can see almost all of Monaco and several other spots along the Riviera.
This place is on the Tête de Chien mountain, and it’s best to drive up there. You can park your car at the Parking Tête de Chien. From there, it’s a short walk to Fort Masséna, and around that area you’ll find several viewpoints, like the one called Monaco-Monte Carlo viewpoint.
These are natural viewpoints, not built-up platforms, so you’ll need to walk carefully on the rocks to look down from the high cliffs. But in my opinion, this spot offers the absolute best panoramic view of Monaco from above.
Monaco is also known for its lively nightlife. There are many stylish clubs and bars with fun programs in the evening.
All in all, Monaco is a wonderful mix of luxury, culture, and beautiful coastlines.
In the evening, you can stay overnight in Monaco or continue to Menton, the next stop, where you can also find good places to stay. I have recommendations for both.
Where to stay in Monaco
Where to stay in Menton
Day 7: Menton
The last day of the 7-day South of France itinerary is all about Menton.
Menton is a beautiful seaside town near the Italian border. It’s known for its colorful buildings, Mediterranean charm, relaxing beaches, and turquoise sea. I recommend taking a walk along the promenade to enjoy the stunning views and exploring the old town, which has a special atmosphere.
One of the highlights in Menton is the Basilica of Saint-Michel Archange, a beautiful church that stands out among the colorful houses in the town center.
You should also visit Jardins Biovès, a nice garden in the heart of the town. This is also where the famous Lemon Festival takes place every February.
Menton is often called the “Pearl of France”, and after spending some time here, you’ll understand why. It’s a lovely place to relax and end your South of France trip.
And that’s the end of this 7-day itinerary for Provence and the French Riviera. I hope you found lots of useful information and inspiration for planning a similar trip. I also hope you got enough tips to help you make the most of your 7 days in the South of France.
If you want to know more, keep reading! I’ll share some extra places you can add for a longer trip, and at the end of the article, I’ll answer some common questions about traveling in France.
Other places to visit in France
If you have more time to spend in France, here are a few extra places you shouldn’t miss:
Annecy
Annecy is a beautiful town at the foot of the Alps. It’s often called the “Venice of the Alps” because of its lovely canals that run through the old town. Walking through the old town, you’ll see narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and lots of flowers. Right next to the town is Lake Annecy, a clear blue lake that’s great for boat rides, cycling, or just relaxing. If you like history, visit the Château d’Annecy and the Palais de l’Isle, two popular sights in the center.
French Alps
The French Alps are in the southeast of France, close to Switzerland and Italy. This region is famous for its beautiful mountains, valleys, and outdoor activities. In winter, it’s perfect for skiing and snowboarding. In summer, people come here for hiking, cycling, and enjoying nature. You’ll also find lakes, waterfalls, and deep gorges. It’s a great place for anyone who loves being active or spending time in nature.
Paris
Paris is the capital of France and one of the most famous cities in the world. It sits along the River Seine and is full of history and beautiful landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. You can enjoy a walk by the river, relax in one of the city’s parks, or visit Disneyland Paris. Paris is also known for its cafés, great food, and romantic atmosphere. It’s the kind of place you’ll never forget.
Frequently asked questions about a trip to the South of France
How to get to the South of France
If you’re traveling to the South of France by car, it’s easy. Many highways connect the region to neighboring countries like Spain, Italy, and Switzerland. However, keep in mind that French highways can be expensive. You can use ViaMichelin to calculate tolls.
If you’re flying, the best option is to fly into Marseille and then rent a car to visit rural areas.
Public transport can be useful in some areas, and Google Maps can help you navigate.
However, getting around the South of France without a car can be difficult.
Parking can be tricky in some places, but it’s manageable. Rural areas are hard to reach otherwise.
If you prefer not to rent a car, booking group bus tours to popular attractions is a good option. The best platform for booking tours is GetYourGuide.
Weather in the South of France
Southern France has a typical Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot, dry summers.
So in principle, it is pleasant to visit at any time of the year.
In winter, a jacket is enough, and in summer the weather is ideal for a beach holiday.
Best time to visit the South of France
The weather in Provence is great almost all year round, and if I were to recommend the best time to travel based on temperature, I would recommend spring or autumn.
However, there is a special, short time of the year when traveling to Provence is the absolute perfect choice: the lavender season.
Lavender season in Provence
This is a fact: the absolute best time to visit Provence is during the lavender season, which lasts from the end of June to the middle of July.
During these few weeks of the year, you have the chance to explore the most beautiful landscapes of Provence, and the good weather also makes beach holidays possible. Although it can be a little hot for sightseeing, it is the ideal time for all the other attractions.
Is it worth visiting the South of France in winter?
I think it’s definitely worth it in February, when there’s a lemon festival in Menton. But be prepared that the landscapes are not as stunning as in summer.
Basically, I do not recommend winter as the best time to visit.
What to wear in Provence
For sightseeing, casual clothes are recommended. In winter, spring and autumn you may need a jacket; in summer, a simple summer outfit is sufficient. On the hottest summer days, pay particular attention to choosing light, airy clothing.
For hiking in the mountains, specifically thinking about hiking in the Calanques National Park, we recommend comfortable hiking clothes, considering the strong sunshine most of the year. If you travel in the recommended summer season, plan to hike with the least amount of clothing. However, don’t leave your hiking boots and hiking poles at home, as some hiking trails are quite difficult and slippery.
Beaching is also very popular in the summer on the French Riviera and in some of the famous French lakes. If you plan a beach holiday, make sure you bring a swimsuit.
Wherever you go, make sure you have sun protection in summer, as the sun shines particularly strong in the South of France. Nowhere else have I seen so many sunburned people.
How many days to spend in the South of France
I have created this 7-day itinerary especially because I think it is the right amount of time to see the best places in the South of France.
If there is no lavender season, or if you are not interested in lavender fields, 5 days might be enough.
If you are only interested in visiting the French Riviera, I recommend a minimum of 4 days.
But if you want to see absolutely everything and enjoy all that the South of France can offer, plan for more than a week: up to 10–14 days. With such a long stay, you will have plenty of time for beaches, casinos in Monaco, boat trips, wine tasting, and taking the best photos.
Public safety in the South of France
The South of France actually has one major problem: the public safety.
Unfortunately, car break-ins are common, especially in underground garages, so it is better to leave your car in the hotel parking lot or on the street (for a short time).
A common car break-in method is to break one side window and then steal all the valuables in the car, which can ruin the whole holiday. Unfortunately, this is a persistent problem, and I see only little local action to stop it.
In addition, there are also stories of highway rest areas where gangs rob tourists, even violently. This is why I do not recommend sleeping in highway rest areas.
So, in the cities and at highway rest areas, be careful and do not leave valuables in the car.
Costs of a South of France road trip
France is one of the most expensive countries in Europe in almost every aspect. You will find high Western European prices at petrol stations, shops, restaurants, and hotels, more expensive than its neighbors like Germany, Italy, or Spain.
Still, if you pay attention when planning a trip, you can manage it on even an average budget.
You can find 3-star hotels for €100–200 per night for two people. Campsites are also available in plenty of places. The attractions on my itinerary usually don’t charge entry fees.
Food costs
In terms of food, French hypermarkets offer one of the largest selections in Europe, so eating out can be cheap. For example, a French gratin, grilled chicken, and a salad are available cheaply at popular hypermarkets such as Auchan or Carrefour.
Restaurants are a bit more expensive, with an average meal per person in a regular place between €15 and €35.
Car costs
Another big cost to be prepared for is the car. In France, everything about traveling by car is expensive: car rental, highway tolls, and fuel too.
However, considering the costs above, I think you can still travel to France at a good price.
In 2024, for example, we made our one-week trip to the South of France for around €2,500, all costs included.
So these were the main things to know about the 7-day South of France itinerary and planning a trip to this beautiful region.
I hope you found enough helpful information to plan your own trip to France. I tried to include everything worth seeing in Provence and the French Riviera, and to show how you can make the most out of a one-week journey.
Seven days is enough time to explore the most exciting places in Provence and the Riviera, and to return home with great memories from Southern France.
If this made you want to travel, don’t wait too long. Book your flight, car, and hotels soon, and get ready for your South of France adventure!
