Understand

The Provence-Alpes-Cte d'Azur region, located in the southeast of France, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the charming villages of Provence to the glamourous French Riviera, this region offers something for every traveler. In Provence, you will find a mix of dry and warm low-lying areas, perfect for outdoor adventures and basking in the sun. As you venture further into the Alps, the landscape becomes cooler and more rugged, offering breathtaking views and a chance to explore the sunniest part of the mountain range. Beyond the picturesque lavender fields that have become synonymous with Provence, this region has a rich cultural heritage. Its history and traditions are deeply rooted in a vibrant regional culture and language. While strolling through the charming towns, you can feel the history come alive. One of the highlights of this region is the Luberon mountain. Often referred to as the "Chic" Mountain, it stretches from the north to the south, offering mesmerizing views of the Calavon and Durance valleys. The lifestyle in the "pays du Luberon" has been an inspiration since Roman times. Discover the unique food, history, and climate of this region that will leave you inspired and yearning for more. To fully experience the wonders of Provence, plan for an extended trip. This vast and beautiful region deserves more than just a few days or a week. Immerse yourself in the local culture by indulging in delicious food, sipping on exquisite wines, and exploring the craftsmanship of the talented locals. Create a flexible itinerary that allows you to relax at outdoor cafes, visit wineries, or stumble upon fascinating Roman ruins. The "joie de vivre" attitude of Provence is contagious, especially when paired with a glass of regional rose and a delightful picnic of cheese and sausage from local farmers.

Get in

For those traveling from Lyon or Paris, the train connections to this destination are superb. The TGV fast train can whisk you away from Paris to this location in just about three hours, offering a convenient and efficient way to travel. Gateway cities like Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, and Valence can easily be reached from this destination, allowing you to embark on further explorations of the beautiful region. Additionally, on Saturdays during the summer season, a Eurostar service operates from London to Avignon, providing even more accessibility (visit the Eurostar website for more information).

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

The first popular French dish is Ratatouille, a colorful vegetable stew traditionally made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and seasoned with herbs such as thyme and basil. This hearty, non-meat dish is typically served alongside grilled meats or fish.

Another famous French dish is Coq au Vin, a braised chicken dish that originated in Burgundy. It involves marinating chicken pieces in red wine with mushrooms, bacon, onions, and garlic before slow-cooking them until tender and flavorful. The final dish is often garnished with parsley and served with potatoes, noodles, or bread.

Lastly, the iconic French dish, Croissants, are flaky, buttery pastries made from layers of laminated dough, which are then curved into a crescent shape and traditionally served for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Although they are not typically a savory or sweet dish, croissants can be filled with various ingredients like ham and cheese (called a jambon-beurre) or almond paste and sugar (an almond croissant).

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing