Provence is one of the most sensual, enchanting and intriguing regions of France. Fields of blue lavender sweep gently towards the horizon, sleepy olive groves and vineyards provide welcome relief on a hot day and ancient villages gently climb the slopes towards the mountains. Every view seems to be peppered with the bright pops of colour of poppies, sunflowers, mimosas and bougainvillea and the region’s rich history still echoes through the streets of its many towns and villages.
Provence stretches along the Mediterranean from the banks of the Rhône to the Italian border and is famous for its Roman architecture, abundant produce and lively cultural heritage. With so much to explore, it can be difficult to know where to start but if want to discover the real Provence and what makes it tick, take a guided tour with idreamProvence and discover three of the most historic and picturesque towns.
Aix-en-Provence
About 30 kilometres north of Marseille, Aix-en-Provence was once the capital of the region and dates back to the Roman period. By the 5th century, it had become a focus of Christianity and by the 12th century, it was a centre of power and known as the City of Counts (after the erstwhile rulers of the region who made it their home).
Today, you’ll find a vibrant and beautiful city of two halves. Head to the old town and discover a delightful melee of Medieval buildings, the remains of the Medieval ramparts, narrow cobbled streets and brightly coloured markets that fill the air with sights, sounds and smells of the region. Lavender, garlic, truffles, sweet, sticky local honey and calissons (candied fruit sweets) are all hard to resist while the weekly flower market is bursting with colour.
Turn a corner and you might find the incredible Cathedral of Saint Sauveur built and rebuilt from the 5th to the 17th century in a heady mixture of Baroque, Gothic, and Romanesque styles. Or you might stumble across the remains of the Roman thermal baths.
Cross the sophisticated Cours Mirabeau (a wide avenue lined with impressive 17th and 18th century buildings and plane trees) and head towards the Mazarin Quarter. Order and elegance replace the jumbled old town here. In the 17th century, the Mazarin Quarter became the place to live for the wealthy and influential, and grand houses gather around impressive squares each showcasing one of the many ubiquitous fountains.
Paul Cézanne lived in Aix-en-Provence and you’ll follow in his footsteps to discover the places associated with him, like his studio, The Musée Granet or the family hat shop. 2025 will see the city host a major celebration honoring Paul Cézanne’s life and legacy, making it a remarkable year for art enthusiasts. Key highlights include a comprehensive exhibition at the Musée Granet from June 28 to October 12, showcasing over 100 of Cézanne’s works—paintings, watercolors, and drawings—sourced from prestigious international collections. This special exhibit will explore Cézanne’s techniques, themes, and inspirations, particularly from the local landscapes he cherished, like Mont Sainte-Victoire.
There are at least 12 significant sites to visit in Aix en Provence which is also a city of festivals, folklore, museums and music. There are hidden cafés and restaurants and great local wine, and your guides will be very happy to share the secrets with you.
Arles
Stretching along the banks of the Rhône, Arles is one of the oldest cities in France. It dates back over 2,000 years to its zenith as a Roman city when it was home to a theatre, amphitheatre (that still dominates the city centre), cryptoporticus (subterranean galleries), a necropolis, Roman baths and a circus as it enjoyed frequent visits from the Roman emperor.
Arles is now classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and sits right on the edge of the Camargue (famous for its white horse and cowboys). From the elegant and central, Place de la Republique, explore the cobbled streets, the 11th century, Romanesque Cathedral of St Trophime and then why not follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh who stayed in Arles between 1888 and 1889 and was inspired by the town.
Markets are always central to life in Provence and in Arles, you’ll see the colourful Camarguaise personalities in action selling Fougasse (a sweet almond filled brioche), fruit tarts, jams, lavender, Garrigue honeys, olives, garlic rouille and Gardiane de Taureau (a local beef casserole).
There are eight significant Roman sites in Arles to discover as well as museums and art galleries, and the Medieval ramparts from Arles’ second heyday in the 11th and 12th centuries. And when you’ve finished exploring the city with your expert guides, there are still the surrounding salt marshes of the Camargue and vineyards of Provence to explore.
Next to Arles is where we find a true haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike. where flamingos, majestic herons, and other rare birds can be seen, all while surrounded by the stunning landscapes that make the Camargue so unique. It can be explored on foot, by horse-drawn carriage, or on horseback, you’ll feel immersed in the beauty and peace of this protected reserve.
Avignon
The third city that is synonymous with Provence is Avignon. Here the Medieval ramparts give way to a maze of back streets, elegant squares and tales of intrigue and power. Climb Rocher des Doms for views across Provence, visit the seat of power at the Palais des Papes and walk to the centre of the Rhône across the famous World Heritage Site Saint-Bénézet Bridge, your guides will show you all the very best places to experience this beautiful, historic city.
The best way to discover Aix, Arles and Avignon
All three cities represent a unique aspect of Provencial life. And the best way to get the most out of each city as you start to explore is with a small, personalised tour.
I Dream Provence tours are hosted by a local couple who speak English and French and know the secrets of all three cities: the most authentic local cafés, the best vineyards and the stories behind the architecture from the fountains of Aix-en-Provence to the great cathedrals and Roman ruins.
Their small group tours will ensure you see all the most important sites but can also be tailored so that you see, what you want to see. With their expert, insider knowledge of your tour guides, you get a chance to discover the real Provence.
For more information and book your guided tour at: idreamprovence.com
