Snow-capped Alpine peaks, Mediterranean calanques, lavender fields and the Camargue salt marshes show the diversity of Provence-Alpes-Côte D'azur. The possible focuses also differ considerably: in Arles, Avignon and Orange, Roman and medieval structures take centre stage; elsewhere, nature parks, coastal landscapes and cycling routes shape the picture. When looking for a hotel, it is therefore worth first considering which of these aspects you want to define your stay.

UNESCO Heritage and Museums

Arles’ UNESCO heritage includes Roman monuments such as the Baths of Constantine, the Alyscamps necropolis and the Romanesque Church of Saint-Honorat. Avignon’s UNESCO-listed old town brings together the Palace of the Popes, the episcopal ensemble and the Pont d’Avignon in an exceptional group of medieval architecture. In Orange, the UNESCO-listed Roman theatre, with its 103-metre-long façade, is a striking example of ancient architecture.

The three towns offer different focal points within the region’s cultural attractions. There is also a wide selection of art and cultural heritage museums: the region’s offerings include the Matisse, Chagall, MAMAC, Renoir, Bonnard and Picasso museums, as well as the Perfume Museum and the Merveilles Museum. As of 22 September 2025, the region had 2,402 protected historic monuments. This means cultural trips offer more than just a single focus to discover.

Landscapes and Natural Areas

The landscape stretches from the Alps to the Mediterranean and includes lavender fields and the Camargue. Along the Provençal coast, you’ll find calanques, small harbours, coves, wild stretches of coastline and sandy beaches; the coastal area described extends from Cassis to the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Near Marseille, the Parc national des Calanques offers nature experiences both at sea and on land.

Protected natural areas include regional nature parks, nature reserves and Natura 2000 sites. Provence-Alpes-Côte D'azur has four national parks and nine regional nature parks. More than 20,000 plant and animal species have been recorded in the region; around 60 percent of its area lies within protected natural areas. Nature can play an important role in planning your trip, alongside cultural heritage.

Get Active: Cycling, Trails and Scenic Routes

Cycling takes you through a variety of landscapes: Provençal routes pass olive trees and lavender fields, while Alpine passes and routes along the Côte d’Azur offer sea views. The French section of EuroVelo 8, Méditerranée à Vélo, is 850 kilometres long and accessible by public transport. In Provence, options also include horse riding, cycling, hiking and visiting parks or gardens. Activities there also range from mountain biking, skiing and canyoning to climbing, paragliding, ultralight flights and golf.

If you prefer scenic routes, you’ll find names such as Route Napoléon, Route des Peintres and Route du Mimosa. Regional routes can be travelled by car, bicycle or train. The rail routes each have their own appeal, too: the Train de la Côte bleue follows a 32-kilometre scenic route between Marseille and Miramas, passing calanques with turquoise water. The Train des Merveilles connects Nice and Tende; along the way, it offers panoramic views over the Paillon, Bévéra and Roya valleys, accompanied by commentary on the artistic and cultural heritage of the hinterland around Nice. The historic railway line between Ventimiglia and Tende is also designated as a regional visitor route. Checking the timetables can help you include the right route in your plans.

Provençal Cuisine and Crafts

In Provence, olive oil, truffles and vineyards are among the region’s culinary highlights. Markets, country inns, restaurants and cooking workshops offer further ways to explore regional cuisine. Crafts are also part of the local savoir-faire: soap, pottery, ceramics and design pieces represent a range of creative traditions. These interests can be chosen as a focus alongside culture, nature and activities.

Choose Accommodation Based on Your Travel Focus

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Hautes-Alpes, Alpes-Maritimes, Var, Alpes-De-Haute-Provence, Bouches Du Rhone, Vaucluse, Midi Pyrenees, Champagne-Ardenne.

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