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Nestled in the heart of Provence, Avignon serves as an ideal base for exploring the treasures of southeastern France. From ancient Roman ruins to picturesque villages and lavender fields, the surrounding region offers countless opportunities for memorable excursions.
A day trip to Orange takes you back to the glory days of the Roman Empire. Just 21 kilometers north of Avignon, this historic city boasts one of Europe’s finest Roman theaters. The Théâtre Antique d’Orange, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands remarkably intact with its towering stage wall reaching 37 meters high. The theater still hosts performances during summer festivals, allowing visitors to experience entertainment as the Romans did two millennia ago.
Beyond the theater, explore the Arc de Triomphe, another well-preserved Roman monument commemorating veterans of the Gallic Wars. The city’s compact size makes it perfect for wandering through medieval streets while discovering local cafés and artisan shops.
A day trip to Les Baux-de-Provence reveals one of France’s most dramatic villages. Perched atop a rocky outcrop in the Alpilles mountains, this fortified medieval town offers breathtaking views across Provence. The ruined castle, once home to powerful feudal lords, dominates the skyline and provides fascinating insights into medieval military architecture.
Don’t miss Carrières des Lumières, a former quarry transformed into an immersive art space where masterpieces are projected onto massive limestone walls. The village’s narrow streets house artisanal shops selling local products, from olive oil to Provençal fabrics.
A day trip to Pont du Gard showcases Roman engineering at its finest. This magnificent three-tiered aqueduct bridge spans the Gardon River and stands as the highest of all Roman aqueduct bridges. Rising 48 meters above the river, its precision construction has allowed it to survive for two millennia.
The site offers excellent hiking trails, a museum explaining Roman water management, and in summer, the opportunity to swim or kayak beneath the ancient arches. The Mediterranean garden around the site provides insight into local flora and agricultural practices.
A day trip to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence leads you through the landscapes that inspired Vincent van Gogh’s most famous works. Visit Saint-Paul-de-Mausole, the asylum where the artist created “The Starry Night” and numerous other masterpieces. Walking trails follow “Van Gogh’s Field,” where reproductions of his paintings stand at the spots where he painted them.
The town itself charms visitors with its elegant boulevards, vibrant Wednesday market, and excellent restaurants serving Provençal cuisine. The ancient Roman site of Glanum lies just outside town, offering well-preserved ruins of a Roman city.
A day trip to Châteauneuf-du-Pape delights wine enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This renowned wine region, crowned by the ruins of a papal summer residence, produces some of France’s most prestigious wines. Dozens of wineries offer tastings, allowing visitors to sample the robust reds that have made this region famous.
The village itself, with its steep cobbled streets and panoramic views over the Rhône Valley vineyards, merits exploration. Visit during harvest season (September-October) to witness the grape-picking activity that has defined this region for centuries.
A day trip to L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue transports you to a charming town known as the “Venice of Provence.” Ancient water wheels still turn in the crystal-clear Sorgue River that encircles the town. On Sundays, the town hosts one of Europe’s largest antique markets, drawing collectors from across the continent.
Beyond antiques, the town offers excellent restaurants specializing in local trout, numerous art galleries, and pleasant walks along the river. The surrounding area features several historic paper mills and the opportunity to kayak on the Sorgue’s emerald waters.
A day trip to the Luberon region introduces you to some of Provence’s most beautiful villages. Gordes, dramatically positioned on a hilltop, offers stunning photo opportunities and a unique troglodyte abbey. Roussillon captivates with its ochre cliffs and buildings in varying shades of red and yellow.
Lacoste, dominated by the ruins of the Marquis de Sade’s castle, provides panoramic views across lavender fields and vineyards. Nearby Ménerbes, made famous by Peter Mayle’s “A Year in Provence,” retains its authentic charm despite its literary fame.
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