Avignon

Just under an hour away, Avignon is a must. Once the seat of the papacy, the city is full of majestic architecture, none more impressive than the Palais des Papes, a Gothic fortress-palace that towers over the old town. Walk across the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet (even if it doesn’t go all the way across the Rhône!), then lose yourself in the winding medieval streets and sun-drenched squares.

If you’re there in the morning, don’t miss Les Halles, the covered market in the center of town. It’s a vibrant showcase of Provençal life—fresh herbs, olives, cheeses, charcuterie, and seasonal produce, all under one roof. Grab a few things for a picnic or just enjoy wandering the colorful stalls and chatting with the friendly vendors. It’s the perfect place to taste the rhythm of everyday Avignon.

Pont du Gard

If you’re even remotely interested in Roman engineering—or just love stunning scenery—don’t miss the Pont du Gard. This ancient aqueduct is one of the best-preserved in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Standing beneath its massive arches is truly humbling. There’s a lovely river beach below it, so pack a picnic and maybe take a dip in the Gardon River on a warm day.

We often visit Pont du Gard in the morning, bringing croissants and fresh orange juice to enjoy while overlooking the river or resting among the ancient olive trees, before continuing on to the coast.

Gorges du Verdon (Verdon Gorge)

It’s a bit of a drive from Gigondas (about 2.5 hours), but if you’re up for a longer day trip, the Verdon Gorge is absolutely breathtaking. Often called the “Grand Canyon of Europe,” it offers a spectacular mix of towering limestone cliffs, turquoise water, and winding roads that make for an unforgettable scenic drive. Whether you choose to hike one of the many trails or simply stop at the panoramic viewpoints along the rim, the views are stunning in every direction. For the adventurous, renting a kayak or paddle boat is a must—the contrast of the steep rock walls and the crystal-clear river below is surreal. Go early to beat the crowds and bring plenty of water and a camera—you’ll need both.

Cassis

Craving the sea? Head south to Cassis, a charming fishing village nestled between towering white cliffs and the sparkling Mediterranean. Wander through its quaint streets and take a refreshing dip at one of its stunning beaches. Savor fresh seafood by the quay and enjoy a glass of local white wine as the sun sets over the horizon. Cassis captures the essence of Provence by the sea.

Kir Royal

While you are in Cassis, it’s only fitting to enjoy a refreshing glass of Kir Royal, made with the local crème de cassis. Though it may feel like a drink from another era, it remains the perfect choice for a delightful refreshment during your visit.

Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer & the Camargue

The Camargue is like nowhere else in France—wild, flat, and elemental. You’ll see white horses, black bulls, and pink flamingos among the salt marshes. At the heart of it is Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a small town steeped in legend and gypsy culture. The sea breeze, wide-open spaces, and raw beauty make it an ideal contrast to hilltop villages and vineyards.

Spend the day exploring the Camargue—enjoy the scenic drive, take a refreshing swim at the beach, and savor lunch in Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. Be sure to try a dish highlighting Camargue rice and Camargue salt for an authentic taste of the region.

Taste Camargue in Every Bite: The Local Paella You Must Try

In the heart of southern France, the Camargue region presents its own distinctive version of paella—a vibrant dish showcasing the area’s unique flavors. Crafted with nutty red Camargue rice and often enriched with local seafood, meats, and fragrant herbs, this regional paella beautifully blends French terroir with Mediterranean tradition. Whether you’re a passionate foodie or simply curious, savoring Camargue paella promises an unforgettable culinary journey.

Arles

Another Roman treasure, Arles is where ancient history and artistic passion come alive. The arena and amphitheater are truly breathtaking, while the presence of Van Gogh is felt throughout the town. For art enthusiasts, visiting the sidewalk café immortalized by Van Gogh in one of his most iconic paintings is an absolute must. Follow the walking trail through the scenes he captured, then relax at a café in the charming Place du Forum. In Arles, you’ll discover numerous restaurants serving the Provençal take on paella, a delicious experience not to be missed (see more above). The pace here is unhurried, making the visit both peaceful and profoundly rewarding.

Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

A haven for antique enthusiasts and market lovers, Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is adorned with picturesque canals and brimming with charm. Every Sunday, the town buzzes with one of Provence’s most renowned markets, featuring antiques, local produce, textiles, and much more. Even on quieter days, it’s a delight to wander along the river, explore the charming antique shops, and enjoy a leisurely lunch by the river – or at our favorite spot Jardin du Quai (see foodietime section).

Vaison-la-Romaine

Closer to Gigondas (just 20–25 minutes), Vaison-la-Romaine blends the medieval and the Roman with ease. Explore the Roman ruins, including a full amphitheater, then cross the ancient stone bridge to the medieval upper town with its winding lanes and stunning views. It’s one of those places where history is always just under your feet—or around the next corner.

We always visit on market day. Arrive early to savor a coffee and croissant in the square before or in between browsing the stalls. If you’re self-catering, be sure to shop for fresh vegetables, cheese, and more. We also love the Marseille soaps, olive wood boards, and local ceramics. We usually end our visit with lunch, either at Panoramique (see foodietime page) or from the market stalls. The pizzas from the vans and the grilled chicken with fries are truly delicious. In summer, we sometimes bring lunch from the market—pizzas or simply baguette, ham, cheese, and pâté—and head to the river for a picnic and swim. For the best swimming spots, see the …… section.

Sète, Frontignan & La Grande-Motte

If you’re in the mood for a coastal escape with a bit of variety, head west toward Sète, Frontignan, and La Grande-Motte—three very different seaside spots, each with its own charm.
Sète is often called the “Venice of the Languedoc” for its canals and working fishing port. It feels authentic and a little gritty in the best way. Grab some fresh oysters at the harbor (this is actually where I had my first Oyster ever – years ago now) and watch the boats come in, or climb Mont Saint-Clair for panoramic views over the Mediterranean.

Just next door is Frontignan, known for its sweet Muscat wine and laid-back beaches. It’s less touristy than Sète and perfect for a quiet swim or a lazy lunch by the water.

La Grande-Motte, on the other hand, is completely different—an architectural curiosity with space-age pyramid-shaped buildings from the 60s and 70s. It’s a bit retro-futuristic, a bit kitsch, but somehow lovable. As I have a bit of a geeky passion for Architecture I absolutely loved visiting this place. The wide sandy beaches and palm-lined promenades are ideal if you’re looking for a classic beach day with facilities.