Provence 5 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Arles
Morning
- Arrive in Arles, a charming town in the heart of Provence
- Check-in to your hotel or B&B and freshen up
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café or bakery
- Visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Nimes (10-minute drive from Arles), one of the best-preserved ancient monuments in France
Afternoon
- Return to Arles and explore the charming streets, alleys, and squares of the town
- Visit the Church of St. Trophime, a beautiful Romanesque church with intricate stone carvings
- Wander through the Saturday Market (if you arrive on a Saturday) and sample some local produce and cheeses
- Visit the Vincent van Gogh Foundation, dedicated to the life and works of the famous artist who lived in Arles
Evening
- Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying some Provençal specialties like ratatouille or bouillabaisse
- Take a stroll along the Rhône River and enjoy the picturesque views of the town
Day 2: Avignon and the Papal Palace
Morning
- Drive to Avignon (30-minute drive) and visit the iconic Palais des Papes, the former residence of the Popes during the 14th century
- Explore the ornate chapel, grand halls, and impressive architecture of the palace
- Visit the nearby Saint-Benezet Bridge, a medieval bridge famous for its beauty and engineering
Afternoon
- Wander through the charming streets and squares of Avignon’s old town, including the Place du Palais and Rue des Teinturiers
- Visit the Petit Palais, a beautiful Renaissance palace with stunning views of the Rhône River
- Enjoy lunch at a local café or bistro
Evening
- Return to Arles for dinner and relaxation
Day 3: Les Baux-de-Provence and Saint-Rémy
Morning
- Drive to Les Baux-de-Provence (30-minute drive) and visit the picturesque medieval village perched on a rocky outcrop
- Explore the narrow streets, charming shops, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside
- Visit the Château des Baux, a 12th-century castle with impressive architecture and beautiful gardens
Afternoon
- Drive to Saint-Rémy (20-minute drive) and visit the Asylum where Vincent van Gogh lived in 1889-1890
- Explore the charming town of Saint-Rémy, known for its stunning views, historic architecture, and Provençal charm
- Visit the local market (if it’s a Tuesday or Saturday) to sample some local produce and cheeses
Evening
- Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Saint-Rémy or return to Arles for relaxation
Day 4: Camargue National Park and the Mediterranean Coast
Morning
- Drive to the Camargue National Park (45-minute drive), a stunning wetland area known for its wildlife, including pink flamingos
- Take a guided tour of the park, exploring the salt pans, mudflats, and picturesque villages
- Visit the charming town of Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, famous for its white horses and beautiful beaches
Afternoon
- Drive to the Mediterranean coast (30-minute drive) and enjoy some relaxation time at a beachside café or bar
- Take a scenic coastal walk or bike ride along the GR201 trail, offering stunning views of the sea and surrounding cliffs
Evening
- Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant in one of the coastal towns, such as Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer or Port-St-Louis-du-Rhône
Day 5: Wine Tasting and Departure
Morning
- Visit a local winery (such as Château Margaux or Domaine de la Croix) for a wine tasting and tour
- Learn about the production process, taste some of the finest wines, and enjoy the beautiful vineyard views
Afternoon
- Return to Arles and spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring the town’s charming streets
- Check-out of your hotel or B&B and depart from Arles
This itinerary provides a great balance of culture, history, nature, and relaxation in the beautiful region of Provence. Enjoy your trip!