Last Updated on January 24, 2025 by Oliver
Last year, we finally did it—our dream Europe trip! We traveled through all kinds of amazing countries, and one of the highlights? A big road trip through France. Honestly, we’ve always wanted to do something like this. You could totally weave this itinerary into a larger Europe adventure, but trust me, this 2-week France road trip can easily be a standalone vacation.
In my opinion, this Provence and French Riviera road trip is hands-down one of the best ways to experience Europe. If you want to see how incredible southern France truly is, this is the trip for you. Think breathtaking natural wonders in Provence, the glitz and glamour of the French Riviera, charming coastal towns, stunning beaches, and those picture-perfect villages and hilltop towns that look like they belong in a postcard.
So, welcome to the ultimate 2-week Provence and French Riviera itinerary! If you’re into stunning landscapes, cozy little towns, golden beaches, and a dash of French glamour, this trip is for you.
Whether you’re planning a massive Europe adventure or just craving a vacation that’s all about France, this Provence itinerary will give you everything you’re dreaming of.
France Road Trip – Highlights
| Destination | Nights |
|---|---|
| Nice/Monaco | 2 nights |
| Côte d’Azur Hilltop Towns | 1 night |
| French Riviera Beach Towns: Cassis, St Tropez, Cannes, Antibes | 2 nights |
| Verdon Gorge | 2 nights |
| Luberon Villages | 2 nights |
| Aix-en-Provence | 2 nights |
| Avignon | 1 night |
💡 Interested in a different type of Europe Road Trip? Check out our Guides to Albania!
Planning Your Provence & French Riviera Trip
When to Visit Provence and the French Riviera
If you’re dreaming of lavender fields and coastal charm, the best time to visit Provence and the French Riviera is between April and September—hello, sunshine and warmer temperatures! Personally, I love traveling in April or September. The vibe is so much more chill, prices are friendlier, and you can hopefully enjoy good weather without too many crowds.
One tip: steer clear of winter. Many attractions take a seasonal snooze, and you don’t want to miss out on all the good stuff. Europe, including the south of France, can get really cold, rainy, and windy in the winter!
Getting to Provence and the French Riviera
Getting to France for your French Riviera & Provence road trip is easier than you might think—trust me. Start by flying into Marseille Provence Airport or Nice Côte d’Azur Airport. Both are equally good starting points for your France road trip, so just choose whichever offers the better flight options.
If you’re coming from Paris, hop on a TGV train (seriously, they’re so fast and comfy!) to Aix-en-Provence or Avignon.
Alternatively, you can always drive. No matter where in Europe you’re coming from, you can easily take your own car or rent one and drive all the way down to the French Riviera.
How to Get Around in Provence & the French Riviera (I highly recommend a rental car)
When it comes to exploring Provence and the French Riviera, you have two main options: driving or using public transportation.
We followed this exact itinerary last year, and honestly, renting a car was a total game-changer. It gave us so much freedom! We could stop wherever we wanted, leave whenever it suited us, and we didn’t have to stick to train schedules or worry about getting to train stations on time. Having the car meant we could stash our luggage there, whether we were staying overnight somewhere or just heading out for a day trip.
But hey, if driving’s not your thing, don’t worry! Public transportation in the south of France is actually pretty fantastic. The trains are reliable, comfortable, and super fast—definitely a solid option if you’re not up for driving. You’ll still get to see some amazing places without the hassle of being behind the wheel.
That said, for me, nothing beats the flexibility of having your own rental car. A road trip through France is definitely the way to go.
►Click here for the cheapest Rental Car Options
The Best Hotels in Provence & the French Riviera (Our 3 Faves)
Chateau de la Gaude (Aix-en-Provence)
One of the most beautiful hotels we came across during our trip was the Chateau de la Gaude. This luxurious 17th-century castle-turned-hotel is located in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The rooms are elegantly decorated, and the estate offers many other amenities such as a spa, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness center.
► Click here for more information & bookings
La Divine Comedie-Suites Deluxe (Avignon)
The most beautiful bed and breakfast/boutique hotel in Avignon is definitely La Divine Comédie – Suites Deluxe. This charming hotel is situated in a 17th-century mansion, and each room is uniquely decorated with antique furniture and modern amenities. They also offer a complimentary breakfast every morning, which is the perfect way to start the day.
► Click here for more information & bookings
Le 1932 Hotel & Spa (Antibes)
My favorite spot we came across in terms of value for money is Le 1932 Hotel & Spa. This stylish and contemporary hotel is located in the heart of Antibes, just a stone’s throw away from the beach. The rooms are sleek and modern, and the hotel also offers a spa with a rooftop pool and fitness center.
► Click here for more information & bookings
The Best French Riviera Trip
Before we dive into all the details and the actual itinerary, I want to start by saying this is our personal itinerary. This is what we found fun and memorable, and what we’re excited to recommend to you!
Of course, I totally get that not everyone has the same preferences as us, so feel free to tweak and adjust it to make it your own! And if you do decide to follow our exact plan, let us know how it goes—we’d absolutely love to hear about your experiences, what you loved, and even any recommendations you might have for next time.
Nice & Monaco – 2 Nights
Our Provence and French Riviera itinerary started in Nice, and it turned out to be the perfect place to ease into the vibe of the region.
Nice is a mix of relaxed beach town and lively city, with a rich history, beautiful coastlines, and a lot of charm. It’s definitely more down-to-earth than its glitzier neighbors like Monaco.
There’s plenty to do in Nice but it’s also very much of a big city and if you’re limited on time then i would recommend spending one day here and then head to the smaller more picturesque villages and hill towns of the region.
Then we hopped over to Monaco—and let’s just say, it’s a different world. Sure, it’s stunning, with its luxury cars, mega yachts, and world-famous casino, but as budget travelers, we quickly realized that the prices here are pretty wild. Monaco’s charm is definitely in the glamour and the views, but for us, it felt more like a place to check off the list than somewhere we could truly relax and explore on a backpacker’s budget.
Where to Stay in Nice & Monaco
($) Yelo Promenade // ($$) Hôtel La Pérouse Nice Baie des Anges // ($$$) Hotel Le Negresco
Things to Do in Nice & Monaco
In Nice:
- Promenade des Anglais: Stroll along the seafront and take in the views. It’s a nice spot to people-watch and relax.
- Old Town (Vieux Nice): Wander through the narrow streets, grab a coffee, and check out the markets.
- Castle Hill (Colline du Château): A short walk up for great views of Nice and the coast. From Castle Hill you probably have some of the best views over Nice.
- Art & Museums: If you’re into art, Nice has some cool museums like the Matisse Museum that are worth a visit.
In Monaco:
- Monaco-Ville (Old Town): Explore the historic heart of Monaco and check out the Prince’s Palace.
- Casino de Monte-Carlo: Admire the architecture and enjoy the atmosphere, even if you’re not into gambling.
- Exotic Gardens (Jardin Exotique): A peaceful escape with great views of Monaco and the Mediterranean.
- Monte Carlo Harbor: Walk along the harbor to check out the luxury yachts, or hop on a boat trip to see Monaco from the water.
Day Trips from Nice – Villefranche-Sur-Mer & Saint Jean Cap Ferrat
If you’ve got a day to spare while staying in Nice, Villefranche-Sur-Mer and Saint Jean Cap Ferrat are two nearby spots that are definitely worth checking out. They’re just a short drive away and each has its own unique architecture that makes it stand out.
Villefranche-Sur-Mer
First up, Villefranche-Sur-Mer. It’s one of those places where everything looks like it could be on a postcard. The waterfront is lined with pastel-colored buildings, and the little fishing boats bobbing in the harbor just add to the charm. Take a slow walk along the Promenade des Marinières, and maybe stop at one of the cafes for a coffee or a glass of wine.
If you’re into history, the Citadel of Villefranche is a must-see. It’s a 16th-century fortress that’s been repurposed into museums and gardens, and the views from up there are stunning.
Saint Jean Cap Ferrat
Then there’s Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, a peninsula that feels like the height of Riviera luxury. It’s home to the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, which is as over-the-top gorgeous as you’d expect a Rothschild villa to be. The gardens are incredible, with fountains, flowers, and views that stretch out to the Mediterranean.
If you’d rather stay outdoors, the coastal trail around the peninsula is perfect for a leisurely walk. It’s not too challenging, and the scenery is amazing.
Côte d’Azur Hilltop Towns – 1 Night
After exploring the hustle and bustle of Nice and the high-end glitz of Monaco, we took a short drive to the Côte d’Azur hilltop towns, which are only about 45 minutes from Nice.
There are quite a few of these amazing towns, which is why I grouped them together into one stop. You can just pick one or two to explore, enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding countryside and coastline.
While these towns make for great day trips from Nice, we decided to spend the night in one of the charming little boutique hotels in Eze Village (Hôtel Eze Hermitage). Eze turned out to be the perfect choice. It’s tiny but packed with charm—its cute cobblestone streets and medieval village feel make it a must-visit on our list.
We spent the afternoon wandering through the village, enjoying the quiet and taking in the panoramic views, and ended the day at Le Nid d’Aigle with an amazing dinner and drinks.
Where to Stay in Eze
($) Les Terrasses d’Eze // ($$) Chateau Eza // ($$$) La Chèvre d’Or
Our Favorite Côte d’Azur Hilltop Towns
Eze Village: Located high on a hill, Eze is famous for its medieval streets and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. We spent hours exploring the narrow alleys, visiting the beautiful gardens, and taking in the views from every corner.
💡We discovered an adorable little cafe called Le Café qui Roule in Eze. It’s the perfect spot to grab a coffee and breakfast in the morning before heading off to explore the next town.
St-Paul-de-Vence: Known for its fantastic art scene, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a picturesque village with galleries, shops, and cafés lining its narrow streets. The village has long been a haven for artists, and we loved wandering through its charming streets, and visiting galleries and cafes.
Gourdon: Definitely a hidden gem that often gets overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbors. The town sits on a cliff, offering amazing views of the Côte d’Azur below. It feels much quieter than the other hilltop towns, and we enjoyed walking through its medieval village streets, checking out the local shops and restaurants.
Vence: Vence has a relaxed, authentic feel that we really appreciated. It’s a little less touristy than some of the other hilltop towns but still full of character, with its ancient walls and charming old town.
French Riviera Beach Towns: Cassis, St Tropez, Cannes, Antibes – 2 Nights
The French Riviera beach towns are often painted as the ultimate luxury destinations, and that’s what I was expecting too—I was thinking yachts, designer shops, and super-expensive beach clubs.
And while some of that is definitely true, there are also spots where you can enjoy the beauty and charm without emptying your wallet. We visited three towns during our stay: St. Tropez, Cannes, and Antibes.
Each one has its own vibe, and while some of them are pretty fancy (looking at you, St. Tropez), they’re definitely all worth visiting, even for regular people.
Cannes is nice enough but honestly felt a bit “meh” to us—it’s definitely polished but didn’t have the same local vibe we were hoping for.
St. Tropez, on the other hand, is super pretty and has that undeniable Mediterranean charm, but it’s very expensive. It’s definitely a place for a quick stopover or day trip rather than a long stay.
Antibes ended up being our favorite. It had the most down-to-earth vibe while still being stunningly beautiful. If you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy the beach without the crowds and sky-high prices, Antibes is the one to check out.
Where to Stay in Antibes
($) La Jabotte // ($$) La Place Boutique Hotel // ($$$) Hotel Relais Du Postillon
Things to Do in French Riviera Beach Towns
- Stroll the Promenade de la Croisette (Cannes): Even if Cannes isn’t our favorite, walking along the Croisette with its fancy shops and hotels was still a fun way to explore.
- Explore the Old Town (Antibes): Wander through the maze of narrow streets in Antibes, explore the local boutiques, and check out the local markets for some fresh, regional produce.
- Walk up to the Citadel (Antibes): For panoramic views of Antibes and the sea, head up to the Citadel. The views from up here are worth the short climb.
- St. Tropez Old Town: The old town in St Tropez is perfect for a walk — small streets, old buildings, and lots of little shops and restaurants. It’s a nice way to escape the high-end beach clubs for a bit. Also, everything here was within walking distance, so it was nice to ditch the car for a bit.
- Take a Boat Trip: We took this amazing boat trip when we were in Cannes (maybe the only thing we liked about Cannes haha). It was a catamaran cruise, and it was just so cool. The catamaran was super fancy, and the views were stunning.
Verdon Gorge – 2 Nights
After exploring the beach towns of the French Riviera, we headed inland to the stunning Verdon Gorge — one of France’s most beautiful natural wonders. Known as the “Grand Canyon of Europe,” this place is famous for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and stunning views.
It’s a total contrast to the coast, and if you’re into outdoor adventures or just being surrounded by nature, I guarantee you’ll love it.
We drove from the Côte d’Azur, which took about 2 hours, and as soon as we arrived, we knew it was worth the trip. The gorge is huge — it’s hard to really capture just how big it is until you’re standing on one of the cliffs, looking down at the winding river below.
We did a mix of relaxing and activities, but there is loads of stuff to do. So if you’re big into outdoor activities, you can have a great time here.
Where to Stay in Verdon Gorge
($) Clos des Iris // ($$) Hotel Les Restanques De Moustiers // ($$$) La Bastide De Moustiers
Things to Do in Verdon Gorge
- Hike the Sentier Blanc-Martel: This trail is one of the most popular and offers some of the best views of the gorge. The 6-hour hike is challenging but totally worth it for the views.
- Kayak or Canoe in the Gorge: Rent a kayak or canoe and paddle through the crystal-clear waters of the Verdon River.
- Visit the Village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie: This picturesque village is tucked right next to the gorge. It’s known for its stunning setting, charming streets, and the beautiful Notre-Dame-de-Beauvoir Chapel.
- Scenic Drive on Route des Crêtes: We’re into hiking (more or less), and we did a fair bit, but we also spent a lot of time driving to see the gorge from different angles. Route des Crêtes is a must!
Luberon Villages – 2 Nights
After a few days of hiking and exploring in Verdon Gorge, we drove into the Luberon Villages. The Luberon (which is a group of mountains, by the way) is known for its beautiful villages, and it’s the perfect spot to get away from the crowds.
We didn’t have a strict plan—just drove from one village to the next, wandering through narrow streets and checking out some of the most iconic spots in Provence. It was a welcome change of pace after the busy coastal towns, with a more laid-back vibe and plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
We spent two nights in the area, and while Gordes, Roussillon, and Lourmarin are definitely some of the most famous villages, they’re still worth visiting — and we found a few quieter spots along the way too.
💡I definitely have to recommend the boutique hotel we stayed at. It’s called Omma, and it’s in Roussillon. It’s super cute with amazing views! Click here for more information
Where to Stay in Gordes
($) Mas des Romarins, The Originals Relais // ($$) Le Clos de Gordes // ($$$) Villa Hautvallon
Things to Do in the Luberon Villages
- Stroll Through Gordes: Gordes is probably the most famous village in the Luberon, and for good reason. Built on a hill, it offers the most amazing views of the valley below. We spent a couple of hours wandering around the narrow, winding streets, stopping for a coffee and taking in the atmosphere. It’s touristy, but it doesn’t feel too crowded, especially if you explore the back alleys.
- Hike the Ochre Trails in Roussillon: The cliffs around Roussillon are a brilliant mix of reds and oranges, and the Ochre Trail is a great way to see them up close. It’s a short walk (about 30-45 minutes).
- Visit Lourmarin: Lourmarin is a little more low-key compared to Gordes or Roussillon, but it’s just as charming. We checked out the Lourmarin Château, walked around the village square, and grabbed a bite at one of the cafés.
- Drive Through Lavender Fields (in Season): If you’re in the Luberon in the summer, you can’t miss the lavender fields. We took a drive through Apt and Sault, and the sight of the endless purple fields against the backdrop of the hills was incredible. It’s a bit out of the way, but definitely worth it if you’re there during lavender season. Click here for more information
Aix-en-Provence – 2 Nights
After exploring the Luberon Villages, we headed to Aix-en-Provence, one of the most famous towns in Provence.
It’s known for its lively atmosphere, beautiful squares, and great food scene. The moment we arrived, we could immediately tell it was a step up from the quieter villages we had just visited. The streets were busier, the cafes were packed, and there was a definite buzz in the air, especially around the Cours Mirabeau, a wide avenue lined with plane trees and impressive buildings.
We spent a couple of days exploring the town, wandering through the markets, and eating at several different restaurants.
Our favorites were Les Fils à Maman Aix-en-Provence for their cool interior and L’Incontournable for their authentic French dishes.
Where to Stay in Aix-en-Provence
($) Chambre style balinais // ($$) Hôtel des Augustins // ($$$) Aquabella Hôtel & Spa
Things to Do in Aix-en-Provence
- Stroll the Cours Mirabeau: This is the main street in Aix, lined with cafes, fountains, and beautiful buildings. We spent a lot of time just walking up and down, people-watching, and stopping for a coffee at one of the terraces.
- Check Out the Markets: Aix has a few great markets, especially the Place Richelme market, which is full of local produce, cheeses, and olive oils. We picked up some fresh fruit, olives, and pastries to snack on while we explored the town.
- Visit Saint-Sauveur Cathedral: The Saint-Sauveur Cathedral is a beautiful mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, and it’s worth checking out if you’re into history or just appreciate old buildings. We wandered through the cathedral and the surrounding square, which was nice and quiet compared to the busy streets.
- Relax at the Thermes Sextius: If you’re looking to relax, we couldn’t recommend Thermes Sextius enough, Aix’s famous thermal spa. After a few days of road-tripping, we spent an afternoon there, and it was so beautiful.
Avignon – 1 Night
After our time in Aix-en-Provence, we drove up to Avignon, a city famous for its Palace of the Popes and its medieval village charm.
It’s a bit more touristy than some of the places we’d been, but still had a lot of character. We only spent a night here, but it felt like the right amount of time to see the highlights and get a feel for the city.
The Pont Saint-Bénézet, the famous bridge, was definitely one of the most memorable spots, even though it’s not the full bridge anymore! Avignon’s mix of history, beautiful streets, and its location along the Rhône River made it a nice stop on our road trip.
Where to Stay in Avignon
($) Hôtel Le Bristol // ($$) Garlande Hôtel Avignon Centre // ($$$) La Divine Comédie
Things to Do in Avignon
- Visit the Palace of the Popes: The Palace of the Popes is the obvious highlight in Avignon. We toured the massive gothic building, which once housed the popes in the 14th century. It’s impressive, and the views from the palace are definitely worth the climb. If you’re into history, it’s a must-see.
- Walk the Pont Saint-Bénézet: This bridge is more famous for its song than for its state — only part of it is still standing, but it’s still cool to see. We took a walk along the remaining sections and got great views of the Rhône River.
- Explore the Old Town: The old town of Avignon is full of narrow streets, local shops, and cute cafés. We spent some time wandering around, checking out the architecture and popping into a few shops etc.
Provence and French Riviera Trip – Final Words
And there you have it—your ultimate 2-week road trip through Provence and the French Riviera! Whether you’re enjoying the sun on the stunning beaches, wandering through charming hilltop villages, or exploring natural wonders like Verdon Gorge, I haven’t met anyone who doesn’t love this France itinerary.
Remember, this itinerary is just a starting point. Feel free to tweak it to match your pace and interests, but no matter what, you’re in for a fantastic time.
We hope this guide has inspired you to hit the road and start planning your own Provence and French Riviera trip. Safe travels, and don’t forget to let us know what you think if you follow our exact route. We love hearing about your experiences!
