4 Enchanting Villages to Visit in Provence in 2025

Our part-time home of Provence is a region of timeless beauty, where every village seems to tell a lovely story. From hilltop hamlets to charming little towns tucked along winding rivers, each place offers its own unique charm and inspiration. Whether you’re drawn to vibrant markets, historic landmarks, or the gentle landscapes that inspired artists like Cézanne (and inspire so much of my own work), Provence has something to capture your heart.

I’m sharing four of my favorite towns to visit—places where history, culture, and earthy beauty come together. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply dreaming of the South of France, these beautiful places will take you to the very sense of Provençal life. 🌿✨

Want more? Download my free guide, 7 Enchanting Villages to Visit in Provence.

1. Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence, affectionately known as “Aix,” is the beating heart of Provençal culture. Renowned for its vibrant arts scene and timeless elegance, this historic town offers a perfect blend of sophistication and charm.

Stroll along the iconic Cours Mirabeau, a tree-lined boulevard dotted with grand fountains, inviting cafés, and boutique shops. My favorite market in Provence is here, with colorful produce, fragrant flowers, and artisanal goods. Art enthusiasts will find inspiration in the footsteps of Paul Cézanne, Aix’s most famous resident, by visiting his studio (Atelier Cézanne) and the landscapes that inspired his masterpieces.

Aix is also a town of water, with its many fountains earning it the nickname "City of a Thousand Fountains." From the ornate Fontaine de la Rotonde to the natural thermal waters at the Pavillon Vendôme, there’s a sense of natural beauty tucked away in every corner.

Whether you’re finding a lovely café, admiring its baroque architecture, or simply soaking in its sun-kissed scenery, Aix-en-Provence is a town you’ll want to keep on your list!

2. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Rich in history and artistic inspiration, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is where Vincent van Gogh painted some of his most famous works. Explore the Monastery of Saint-Paul-de-Mausole (I filmed several modules of my course, 30 Days of Flowers in Provence on the grounds), walk the ancient Roman ruins at Glanum, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere of its boutiques and markets.

These villages, each with their own unique character, are perfect destinations for connecting with the slow and peaceful tempo of Provence. 

You’ll have to stop in at my favorite restaurant there, Bistrot del Alpilles.

 3. Avignon

Steeped in history and brimming with culture, Avignon is a vibrant city along the Rhône River that offers a glimpse into the grandeur of medieval Provence. Once the seat of the papacy, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the magnificent Palais des Papes, one of the largest and most important Gothic buildings in Europe–it’s impressive! 

Be sure to visit and stroll the Pont d'Avignon (Pont Saint-Bénézet), the iconic medieval bridge immortalized in song. Though partially ruined, it remains a symbol of the city’s enduring charm.

Avignon’s winding streets are filled with lively squares, inviting cafés, and bustling markets. The Les Halles market is a feast for the senses, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and Provençal specialties. During the summer, the Festival d’Avignon transforms the city into a hub of creativity, showcasing theater, dance, and music from around the world.

With its rich history, artistic flair, and undeniable charm, Avignon is a city that beautifully captures the spirit of Provence, inviting visitors to linger and explore. ✨

Hungry? Visit one of my favorite restaurants in the village, La Salamandre.

4. L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

Ah, one of my favorites! Known as the "Venice of Provence," L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is a picturesque town where canals wind gently through streets lined with antique shops, galleries, and cafés. Once a humble fishing village, this charming destination has become a haven for art and antique lovers, boasting one of the largest antique markets in Europe.

The town’s waterwheels, remnants of its industrial past, add to its storybook charm, spinning slowly along the crystal-clear waters of the Sorgue River. Stroll along the canals, cross stone bridges, and lose yourself in the quaint streets full of Provençal treasures.

Sundays are a special time here, as the bustling market brings vendors selling everything from fresh produce and artisanal bread to vintage finds and fine art. For a slower pace, visit the nearby Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, the mysterious source of the Sorgue, where the natural beauty of Provence shines in its purest form.

Whether you’re hunting for antiques, sketching by the water, or simply soaking in the tranquil ambiance, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue offers a perfect blend of beauty, creativity, and history. 

Visit my friend, Mathilde, and her beautiful shop, Maison Farigoulette. The shop is just beautiful!
 

Want to know more? Download my free guide, 7 Enchanting Villages to Visit in Provence.