South of France Itinerary 7 Days: The Perfect Week in Provence and the Côte d’Azur

The South of France conjures images of lavender fields stretching to the horizon, medieval hilltop villages, glamorous coastal resorts, and markets bursting with sun-ripened produce. With such diversity in a relatively compact region, seven days provides just enough time to experience the essence of both Provence and the French Riviera. After multiple trips exploring this enchanting region (most recently in September 2022), I’ve perfected a balanced itinerary that captures the best of the South without exhausting you with constant hotel changes.

Key Takeaways: South of France in 7 Days

Best approach: Split your week between Provence (4 days) and the Côte d’Azur (3 days)
Base locations: Aix-en-Provence and Nice (minimizes hotel changes while maximizing experiences)
Must-see highlights: Luberon villages, Aix-en-Provence, Mediterranean beaches, Monaco
Best time to visit: May-June and September-October (perfect weather, fewer crowds)
Transportation: Rental car essential for Provence; trains/buses work well on the coast
Must-try foods: Bouillabaisse, socca, tapenade, aioli, rosé wine
Budget consideration: €150-250/day per person (higher on the Riviera)
Common mistake: Trying to see too many villages in too little time
Local insight: Markets are central to southern French culture – plan around them

What Is the Best 7-Day South of France Itinerary?

The best 7-day South of France itinerary balances cultural experiences, natural beauty, and coastal pleasures by spending 4 days in Provence based in Aix-en-Provence followed by 3 days on the Côte d’Azur based in Nice. This arrangement minimizes hotel changes while allowing for strategic day trips that showcase the region’s diversity – from lavender fields and hilltop villages to glamorous beaches and world-class museums.

After experimenting with various itineraries, I’ve found this two-base approach offers the most satisfying experience without creating a frantic pace. My first South of France trip involved changing hotels almost daily, which left me exhausted and unable to truly appreciate each location. Subsequent visits using strategic bases proved infinitely more rewarding, allowing for deeper exploration while minimizing packing and unpacking.

What surprised me most about the South of France was how manageable the distances are between major attractions. With thoughtful planning, you can experience extraordinary diversity within short drives, making a week-long trip feel much more comprehensive than you might expect.

Days 1-4: Provence Based in Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence makes the perfect base for your Provençal exploration – a sophisticated small city with a beautiful historic center, excellent dining, and central location for day trips in all directions.

Day 1: Arrival and Aix-en-Provence

Arrive at Marseille Provence Airport, pick up your rental car, and drive the short 30 minutes to Aix-en-Provence. Depending on your arrival time, spend the remainder of the day acclimating to the Provençal rhythm by exploring this elegant city.

In Aix-en-Provence: • Stroll Cours Mirabeau, the city’s grand boulevard lined with plane trees and cafés • Explore the maze-like historic center with its golden-stone buildings and hidden squares • Visit the Atelier Cézanne, where the famous artist lived and worked • Enjoy dinner at one of the atmospheric restaurants in the old town

What struck me immediately in Aix was the quality of light that attracted so many great artists – a crystalline brightness that seems to illuminate the honey-colored buildings from within. My first evening was spent simply wandering the old town’s labyrinthine streets, each turn revealing another picturesque square or bubbling fountain (Aix is known as the “city of a thousand fountains”).

Day 2: Luberon Villages

Dedicate your first full day to exploring the Luberon, a mountain range dotted with some of Provence’s most beautiful villages.

Luberon Highlights: • Gordes: Dramatically perched stone village with spectacular valley views • Roussillon: Known for its ochre cliffs in brilliant shades of red and yellow • Lourmarin: Elegant village with Renaissance castle and excellent shopping • Bonnieux: Climb to the church at the top for panoramic views • Optional: Lavender fields at Sénanque Abbey (if visiting June-July)

During my Luberon day, I started early (around 8:30am) to beat both the heat and crowds. Gordes was my first stop to catch the morning light illuminating its stone facades. By arriving before the tour buses, I had the viewpoint almost entirely to myself – a stark contrast to midday when dozens of coaches arrive.

The ochre cliffs of Roussillon provided my most vivid Provençal memory, with their impossibly vibrant colors creating an otherworldly landscape. Walking the Sentier des Ocres (Ochre Trail) is worth the small fee, though wear shoes you don’t mind getting stained with the colorful dust.

For lunch, I discovered a small restaurant with a terrace in Bonnieux where I lingered over a simple meal of local charcuterie, goat cheese, and chilled rosé while gazing across the valley – the quintessential Provençal experience.

Day 3: Avignon and Villages

Head west to explore the historic papal city of Avignon and surrounding attractions.

Day 3 Itinerary: • Morning: Avignon, including the imposing Papal Palace and famous bridge • Lunch in Avignon’s charming squares or near the palace • Afternoon: Choose between:

• Option 1: L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (canal-laced town known for antiques) and Fontaine-de-Vaucluse (powerful natural spring)
• Option 2: Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Les Baux-de-Provence (dramatic hilltop ruins)

Avignon surprised me with its grandeur – the massive Papal Palace dominates the city center and provides fascinating insight into the period when popes ruled from here rather than Rome. While the famous bridge (Pont d’Avignon) is actually just a fragment of the original structure, it’s worth visiting for its historical significance and the views of the Rhône.

For the afternoon, I chose Option 1 during my September visit. L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue charmed me with its water wheels and canals, while the emerald-green pool at Fontaine-de-Vaucluse (source of the Sorgue River) presented a cool respite from the Provençal heat. In retrospect, this option worked perfectly for a hot day, while Option 2 might be better in cooler weather as Les Baux is quite exposed to the elements.

For a fascinating contrast to the Mediterranean pace of Southern France, consider adding a few days exploring Berlin’s vibrant arts scene and important historical sites with our 3-day Berlin itinerary.

Day 4: Markets and Countryside

Design your fourth day around Provence’s famous markets, which offer both shopping opportunities and deep cultural insights.

Market Options: • Tuesday: Gordes or Aix-en-Provence • Wednesday: Saint-Rémy-de-Provence • Thursday: Aix-en-Provence • Friday: Lourmarin • Saturday: Apt (large) or Bonnieux • Sunday: L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (the region’s largest)

My visit coincided with Thursday, so I enjoyed Aix’s market which spreads throughout the old town. The sensory experience remains vivid – towers of spices in earthen colors, lavender products perfuming the air, vendors calling out their offerings, and the bounty of Provençal produce arranged in artistic displays. I purchased picnic supplies and headed to Mont Sainte-Victoire (Cézanne’s favorite mountain subject) for an afternoon hike with dramatic views and a scenic picnic.

Alternatively, use this day to visit attractions you’ve missed or special seasonal highlights like: • Valensole lavender fields (June-July) • Cassis and the stunning Calanques (limestone coves) • Arles with its Roman ruins and Van Gogh connections

Days 5-7: French Riviera Based in Nice

After your Provençal immersion, drive approximately 2 hours to Nice, return your rental car (you won’t need it on the coast), and prepare for a completely different – but equally captivating – French experience.

Day 5: Nice Exploration

Spend your first Riviera day discovering the pleasures of Nice, the perfect introduction to coastal life.

Nice Highlights: • Morning: Promenade des Anglais and the Mediterranean seafront • Late morning: Old Town (Vieux Nice) with its Italian influence and narrow streets • Afternoon: Climb Castle Hill for panoramic views (or take the elevator) • Evening: Dinner in the Old Town followed by a seaside stroll

Nice’s dual identity – part French, part Italian (it only joined France in 1860) – creates a unique atmosphere distinct from Provence. The city’s vibrant markets, especially the Cours Saleya flower market, offer a Mediterranean feast for the senses.

My most memorable Nice experience was simply joining locals for the traditional evening “promenade” along the seafront as the setting sun turned the Mediterranean gold and families came out to socialize. The relaxed seaside energy provides a perfect contrast to inland Provence.

Don’t miss trying socca, a chickpea pancake that’s a Nice specialty, at one of the old town’s many socca vendors. I found Chez Pipo to serve the best version of this simple but delicious street food.

Day 6: Monaco and Coastal Villages

Take advantage of the excellent train service along the coast to explore glamorous Monaco and charming villages.

Day 6 Itinerary: • Morning: Train to Monaco (25 minutes) – see the Palace, Casino, and Oceanographic Museum • Lunch in Monaco or continue to: • Afternoon: Either Villefranche-sur-Mer (gorgeous bay and beach) or Èze (dramatic hilltop village with spectacular views) • Evening: Return to Nice for dinner

Monaco’s concentrated wealth creates an almost surreal atmosphere of luxury. The famous Monte Carlo Casino doesn’t require gambling to appreciate – the Belle Époque architecture alone justifies a visit. The changing of the guard at the Prince’s Palace (11:55am daily) offers a glimpse of Monaco’s unique status as both playground for the ultra-wealthy and working sovereign state.

I chose Villefranche-sur-Mer for my afternoon and found its perfect horseshoe bay, colorful waterfront buildings, and relaxed atmosphere a refreshing contrast to Monaco’s structured opulence. Swimming in the azure waters of the bay while gazing back at the pastel buildings cascading down to the sea created one of my most cherished Mediterranean memories.

Day 7: Saint-Paul-de-Vence or Antibes

For your final day, choose between artistic Saint-Paul-de-Vence or coastal Antibes:

Option 1: Saint-Paul-de-Vence • Morning: Bus to this spectacular walled village filled with art galleries • Lunch at La Colombe d’Or (if you can get a reservation) surrounded by original works by Picasso and Matisse, or one of the village’s other fine restaurants • Afternoon: Foundation Maeght, an exceptional modern art museum in a beautiful setting • Evening: Return to Nice for a farewell dinner

Option 2: Antibes • Morning: Train to Antibes (25 minutes) to explore its old town and Picasso Museum • Afternoon: Enjoy the beaches and coastal path around Cap d’Antibes • Evening: Return to Nice for a farewell dinner

I chose Saint-Paul-de-Vence and found it lived up to its reputation as one of the most beautiful villages in France. The combination of medieval architecture, spectacular views, and world-class art creates an unforgettable experience. While undeniably touristy, visiting early allowed me to appreciate the village before the crowds arrived. The Foundation Maeght surpassed expectations with its perfect integration of architecture, sculpture, and landscape – a fitting final day cultural experience.

When Is the Best Time for a 7-Day South of France Trip?

The best time for a 7-day South of France trip is during the shoulder seasons of May-June and September-October when the weather is warm (70-85°F/21-29°C), tourist crowds are moderate, and accommodation prices drop 30-40% from summer peaks. July-August brings intense heat, maximum crowds, and premium pricing, while November-March offers the lowest prices but variable weather and reduced hours at attractions.

My personal preference after multiple visits is late September, when the Mediterranean remains warm enough for swimming, summer crowds have departed, and the light takes on a golden quality that photographers adore. The grape harvest brings additional energy to the region, and restaurants feature autumn specialties that complement the still-warm days and cooler evenings.

Seasonal Considerations:

Spring (April-June): • April brings wildflowers but variable weather • May offers warming temperatures and pre-season calm • June sees lavender beginning to bloom and nearly perfect weather • Easter week can be surprisingly crowded

Summer (July-August): • Peak lavender season in early July • Extremely crowded, especially coastal areas • Intense heat, particularly inland Provence • Many festivals and cultural events • Premium prices everywhere

Fall (September-October): • September offers warm days, comfortable nights, and grape harvest • October brings beautiful autumn colors and mushroom season • Water still warm enough for swimming in September • Significant reduction in crowds after early September

Winter (November-March): • Many coastal restaurants and some attractions close • Quietest period with lowest prices • Provence winter markets in December are magical • Nice’s Carnival (February) brings coastal energy • Mimosa blooms along the coast in February

How to Get Around the South of France

Transportation strategies differ between Provence and the Côte d’Azur:

Provence: A rental car is practically essential for exploring Provence effectively. The region’s charm lies in its scattered villages, countryside vistas, and hidden corners that public transportation can’t efficiently reach. Driving in Provence is relatively straightforward outside major cities, with well-maintained roads and clear signage.

During my Provence exploration, I found having a car invaluable for impromptu stops at roadside lavender fields, viewpoints, and small villages that weren’t on my original itinerary. These unplanned discoveries often became highlight experiences.

French Riviera: The coastal region works perfectly with public transportation. The train line connecting all major destinations from Cannes to Menton (and into Italy) runs frequently, affordably, and with spectacular sea views along much of the route. Supplementary bus services reach hillside villages like Èze and Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

I recommend returning your rental car upon reaching Nice to avoid parking challenges and costs (€25-35 daily in central garages). The density of attractions along the coast and excellent public transportation make a car unnecessary and often inconvenient in this region.

Where to Stay on a 7-Day South of France Trip

This itinerary minimizes accommodation changes while maximizing experiences, with just two carefully chosen bases:

Aix-en-Provence (4 nights): Aix offers the perfect combination of Provençal atmosphere and practical convenience. Stay within or near the historic center for the full experience of this elegant city.

Budget options: Hotel des Augustins or Hôtel de France (both centrally located with character) Mid-range: Hôtel Cézanne or La Maison d’Aix Luxury: Villa Gallici or Hôtel Le Pigonnet

During my stay at Hotel des Augustins, I appreciated being just steps from Cours Mirabeau while having a quiet room facing the courtyard. The building’s history as a 12th-century monastery added character without sacrificing modern comforts.

Nice (3 nights): Nice provides excellent transportation connections while offering its own considerable charms. The Old Town (Vieux Nice) or areas near Place Masséna offer the most atmospheric experience.

Budget options: Hôtel Ozz or Hôtel Dante Mid-range: Hôtel La Pérouse or Hôtel Le Grimaldi Luxury: Hôtel Negresco or Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée

I stayed at Hôtel La Pérouse during my September visit and found its location between the Old Town and Castle Hill perfect. The partial sea views from higher floors justify the slight premium, and the rooftop terrace provided a peaceful retreat after busy days of exploration.

South of France Cuisine: What to Try on Your 7-Day Trip

The South of France features two distinct but complementary culinary traditions – Provençal cuisine focused on fresh vegetables, olive oil, and herbs, and Niçoise cuisine blending French and Italian influences with an emphasis on seafood.

Must-Try Provençal Dishes: • Ratatouille: The classic vegetable stew of eggplant, zucchini, peppers, and tomatoes • Tapenade: Olive paste with capers and anchovies, served with bread • Daube: Slow-cooked beef stew in wine • Aioli: Garlic mayonnaise served with vegetables and fish • Calissons: Almond-shaped candies from Aix-en-Provence

Côte d’Azur Specialties: • Bouillabaisse: The famous Marseille fish stew (though expensive and best at specialized restaurants) • Socca: Chickpea pancake, a Nice street food • Salade Niçoise: The authentic version has no boiled potatoes or green beans • Pissaladière: Onion tart with anchovies and olives • Pan Bagnat: Essentially Salade Niçoise in sandwich form

Dining Experiences:

During my Provençal exploration, I discovered that many of the most memorable meals came from simple country restaurants rather than famous establishments. In the Luberon, Le Petit Café in Bonnieux served a rustic lunch on their terrace with valley views that exemplified Provence’s art of living well without pretension.

On the coast, I splurged on bouillabaisse at Chez Pipo in Nice, where the ritual of serving this complex dish – first the broth with croutons and rouille, then the array of Mediterranean fish – justified the significant expense (€65) for this authentic experience.

Don’t overlook the markets for picnic supplies. My lunch of freshly baked bread, local goat cheese, olives, and sun-ripened tomatoes eaten at a viewpoint above Gordes cost under €10 yet provided one of my most satisfying meals.

Practical Tips for Your South of France Itinerary

Language Considerations: While tourist areas have English-speaking staff, attempting basic French phrases goes a long way in smaller villages and receives notably warmer responses. Learn simple greetings, please/thank you, and numbers for markets.

During my visits, I found that beginning interactions with “Bonjour” and basic politeness consistently led to better experiences, even when my French quickly exhausted itself and conversations switched to English.

Market Etiquette: In Provençal markets, don’t touch the produce – vendors select items for you. Bring small bills and a reusable bag. Most markets run approximately 8am-1pm, with the best selection early and potential discounts toward closing.

Dining Schedule: Southern French meals follow traditional timing: lunch 12:30-2:30pm and dinner rarely before 7:30pm, with 8-9pm being more typical. Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner services. Cafés serve throughout the day but may offer limited food options during off-hours.

My first trip, I made the classic mistake of getting hungry at 6pm and finding virtually nothing open for dinner. Adjusting to later dining took some adaptation but aligned me better with local rhythms.

Driving Advisory: Pay careful attention to limited traffic zones (ZTL) in historic centers – cameras issue automatic tickets to unauthorized vehicles. When visiting villages, park in designated lots outside the center rather than attempting to navigate the often extremely narrow medieval streets.

Seasonal Awareness: If visiting in summer, schedule outdoor activities for morning or evening hours to avoid midday heat. Many Provençal attractions offer little shade, and temperatures regularly exceed 90°F (32°C) in July-August.

Conclusion: Creating Your Perfect Week in the South of France

Seven days in the South of France offers just enough time to experience the region’s remarkable diversity without constant rushing. By focusing on two carefully chosen bases – Aix-en-Provence and Nice – you’ll minimize transit time while maximing your immersion in both Provençal and Riviera cultures.

What makes this region special isn’t just the postcard-perfect scenes that have attracted artists for centuries but the sensory experiences that can’t be captured in photographs – the scent of lavender carried on a warm breeze, the taste of olive oil pressed from trees you’re driving past, the feeling of Mediterranean water against your skin, and the sounds of a village market in full swing.

My lasting impression after multiple visits remains the quality of light – that extraordinary luminosity that bathes everything in clarity and warmth. Whether illuminating Provence’s golden stone villages or reflecting off the azure Mediterranean, this legendary light transforms already beautiful landscapes into something genuinely magical.

This 7-day itinerary gives you a substantial taste of southern France’s pleasures while leaving enough unexplored to inspire future visits. Because like so many before you, once you’ve experienced the South of France, you’ll almost certainly begin planning your return before you’ve even left.