Villages perched on hillsides, cobbled streets lined with stone houses, squares shaded by century-old plane trees and Provencal markets scented with lavender… Discover our selection of the most beautiful villages in Provence!
In this article, we share our selection with practical tips and a map to help you organize your visits.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Most beautiful villages in Provence: summary + map
Quick selection
No matter where you go in Provence, you’ll discover some magnificent villages. They can be found in every region, with charming little streets and incredible views.
If you only need to visit 5, to get an overview of the different styles:
- Èze for its exotic garden and spectacular views
- Gordes for its dry-stone architecture
- Roussillon for its flamboyant ochres
- Moustiers-Sainte-Marie for its exceptional natural setting in the Verdon gorges
- Les Baux-de-Provence for its location in the heart of the Alpilles mountains
Map of the most beautiful villages in Provence
Depending on where you’re staying in Provence:
- Around Nice: Èze, Roquebrune, Mougins, Hauts-de-Cagne, Saint-Paule de Vence
- Around Arles: Alpilles villages like Les baux-de-Provence
- Around Avignon: Luberon villages such as Gordes, Rousillon, Saignon
- In the heart of Provence: Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Mane…
- And see our selection of the most beautiful villages on the Côte d’Azur
Here’s a map with our 15 favorite villages:
1. Èze, the most beautiful village on the Côte d’Azur
Why visit?
Èze is the most popular village on the Côte d’Azur and even in Provence. So we had a preconceived notion when we went there. But he absolutely deserves his popularity. It’s exceptional!
Perched on a steep hill some 427 metres above the Mediterranean Sea, it offers spectacular views of the coast and sea. It’s a maze of narrow lanes and cobbled streets, typical of the Mediterranean region, with tunnels and arches. V
You can stroll through the picturesque alleyways, explore the local craft stores and discover Èze’s charming medieval architecture.
What’s more, it also has a remarkable hillside garden! And we were enchanted by the mix of cacti, rooftop houses and endless sea views!
The must-dos
- The maze of alleyways
- The exotic garden with all its cacti and waterfalls
- Its church and paintings
- Views of the coast and the Mediterranean
- See our article
How to get there
- Between Nice and Monaco
- Nice to Èze = 25min drive
- Monaco to Èze = 15min
- Cannes to Èze = 50min
- There is a large paying underground parking lot, or a parking lot further away from the village with a shuttle bus.
- You can come by bus from Nice or Monaco, or by cab.
- Note that the Eze train station is at beach level, 400m below. If you get there, you’ll have to take a bus afterwards, or hike (but the slope is steep).
- There are also organized tours departing from Nice – see program
Practical advice
- We arrived at 8:30 a.m., which was ideal, as we were able to explore the alleyways at our leisure before the crowds arrived. We highly recommend this approach
- Wear good walking shoes, as the alleyways are old and cobbled.
- Bring water, the village is on a slope and so is the exotic garden!
- Plan at least half a day
- Choice of restaurants, including gourmet eateries
An unforgettable experience
Èze is truly an exceptional place. You’ll even find some superb hotels here, and one or more nights in this historic location is an unforgettable experience in our eyes.
- At Hotel Chateau Eza – see photos and availability
- At Hotel La Chèvre d’Or – see photos and availability
OUR TPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR IN Provence
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
2. Saignon
Why visit?
Saignon is a discreet village in the Luberon region that particularly appealed to us. Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Apt plain, it offers rare authenticity and exceptional panoramic views. We rarely see it mentioned in lists of Provence’s most beautiful villages, but for us it’s right up there at the top!
We really appreciated the peaceful atmosphere of this village, unspoilt by mass tourism. Narrow streets wind between stone houses, vaulted passageways create a medieval ambience, while shady squares invite contemplation. From the rock overlooking the village, the view embraces lavender fields, the Vaucluse plateau and even Mont Ventoux on a clear day.
The must-dos
- The Bélvédère rock and its panoramic views
- The Romanesque church of Notre-Dame-de-Pitié
- Cobbled streets and vaulted passageways
- Remains of the medieval ramparts
- The main square where to rest
How to get there
- In the Luberon, near Apt
- From Apt = 5min drive
- From Avignon = 55min
- From Aix-en-Provence = 1h
- Parking in the village center and at the entrance
- We recommend that you come by car
Practical advice
- The village is small, so allow 1 to 2 hours for a complete visit.
- Wear good shoes to climb the Bélvédère rock face
- The village is very quiet, ideal for escaping the crowds of the more touristy villages.
- A few restaurants and terraces
3. Les Baux-de-Provence
Why visit?
Les Baux-de-Provence is one of the region’s most spectacular sites. Clinging to a rocky spur in the Alpilles mountains, this fortified village majestically dominates the valley.
We were impressed by the power that emanates from this place. The ruins of the medieval castle, perched on the summit, offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The houses are arranged along narrow streets where the white limestone reflects the Provencal light. The atmosphere here is unique, combining medieval history and scenic beauty.
The village also boasts a number of interesting museums and hosts a number of arts and crafts enthusiasts in its old mansions.
The must-dos
- The Château des Baux and its panoramic views
- Cobbled streets and Renaissance houses
- Les Carrières de Lumières (immersive shows projected onto the walls of an old quarry).
- The Santon Museum
- See our article
How to get there
- In the Alpilles, south of Avignon
- From Avignon = 45min drive
- From Arles = 30min
- From Aix-en-Provence = 1h
- Several pay parking lots at the entrance to the village
- It’s easier to come by car
Practical advice
- Arrive early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
- The village and castle can be visited in 3 to 4 hours.
- Good footwear is essential, as the terrain is rocky and uneven.
- Book your Carrières de Lumières tickets in advance during high season – book here
- Many restaurants, but high prices
WHERE TO STAY IN Provence
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
- Where to stay on the Côte d’Azur
- Where to stay in Provence (coming soon)
Or, if you’ve chosen your destination, our selection of the best hotels in:
- Nice
- Aix-en-Provence
- Marseille (coming soon)
- Avignon (coming soon)
- Arles (coming soon)
- Cannes
- Saint-Tropez
- Antibes
- Menton
- Monaco
4. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
Why visit?
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie occupies an exceptional natural site, nestled in a vertiginous cliff at the entrance to the Verdon Gorge. The village is on several levels, dominated by a star suspended between two rock faces.
We were captivated by the beauty of this grandiose natural setting. A waterfall runs through the center of the village, adding to its charm.
The steep streets lead up to the Notre-Dame-de-Beauvoir chapel, from where the view over the village rooftops and the surrounding plain rewards the effort of the climb.
Moustiers has also been renowned for its earthenware since the 17th century. In the village, you’ll find many artisan workshops perpetuating this tradition. It’s a must for anyone visiting the Verdon Gorge.
The must-dos
- The hanging star and the waterfall
- The climb to the Notre-Dame-de-Beauvoir chapel with its spectacular views
- Earthenware workshops
- The Earthenware Museum
How to get there
- At the entrance to the Gorges du Verdon
- From Aix-en-Provence = 1h20 drive
- From Manosque = 1h
- From Nice: 2h20
- Several pay parking lots around the village
- We recommend that you come by car
Practical advice
- Very touristy village, come early in the morning or out of season
- There are 262 steps up to the chapel, so bring good shoes and water.
- Allow half a day to visit the village
- Numerous restaurants and terraces
- Ideal starting point for exploring the Verdon gorges
5. Gordes
Why visit?
Gordes is undoubtedly the most photographed village in the Luberon. Built amphitheatrically on a rocky promontory, it offers a striking architectural spectacle, particularly from the approach road.
We really appreciated the harmony of this village built entirely of dry stone. The houses are stacked one on top of the other, forming a homogeneous whole of ochre and beige tones. And at sunset, it’s even more majestic!
The area around Gordes is a treasure trove, with the Cistercian abbey of Sénanque nestling in its lavender valley, and the village of Les Bories revealing ancient rural dry-stone housing. It’s a concentrate of authentic Provence, even if its popularity makes it a very busy place in high season.
The must-dos
- The castle
- The alleys
- Views of the village from the D15
- Sénanque Abbey and its lavender fields
- The village of Les Bories
How to get there
- In the Luberon, north of Cavaillon
- From Avignon = 40min drive
- From Apt = 25min
- From Aix-en-Provence = 1h10
- Several pay parking lots around the village
- you can come by car or choose one of the organized tours from Avignon or Aix-en-Provence – see options
Practical advice
- Very touristy village, arrive before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m.
- Parking lots fill up very quickly, so please be patient.
- Allow a full day to visit the village and surrounding area
- Sénanque Abbey is 5km away, so check opening times before you go.
- Good shoes are recommended, as the streets are steep.
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information, good addresses to make your stay in Provence a success, will soon be gathered in a single ebook!
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6. Roussillon
Why visit?
Roussillon immediately stands out for its flamboyant hues. Built in the heart of Europe’s largest ochre deposit, the village boasts every shade from yellow to crimson red.
We were fascinated by this palette of colors that changes with the light. The facades of the houses feature warm ochre tones, creating an atmosphere unique to Provence. The Sentier des Ocres (Ochre Trail) runs through the heart of the old quarries, revealing an almost unreal landscape of multicolored cliffs sculpted by pigment extraction.
The village itself is well worth a long walk. Its picturesque lanes climb up to the castrum, offering beautiful views of the Luberon. Artists’ galleries and craft stores occupy many of the old mansions. It’s a place where nature and human activity have combined to create a remarkable landscape.
The must-dos
- The Ochre Trail
- The colorful village streets
- The belvedere and its panoramic views
- The former Mathieu factory and the Conservatoire des Ocres
- The charming boutiques
- See our dedicated article
How to get there
- In the Luberon, between Apt and Gordes
- From Apt = 20min drive
- From Avignon = 1h10
- From Aix-en-Provence = 1h10
- Several pay parking lots at the entrance to the village
- We recommend that you come by car
Practical advice
- Arrive early to enjoy the village before the busloads of tourists.
- The Sentier des Ocres (Ochre Trail) is not free of charge. Allow about 1 hour for the walk.
- Wear shoes you can get dirty – ochre stains!
- The best light for photos is in the morning or late afternoon.
- Allow 2 to 4 hours for the village and surrounding area
7. Grimaud
Why visit?
Located in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, the village of Grimaud is an enchanting destination that combines medieval charm, rich history and spectacular views.
The village, with its narrow streets, tunnels and arches, has been carefully preserved and showcased.
It is dominated by the ruins of a castle, a symbol of the region’s power in ancient times. You can climb up to admire the views over the village rooftops, the hills and out to sea.
The must-dos
- Climb up to the castle and admire the views
- Getting lost in the alley
- Visit the Saint-Roch mill below the village
- Admire the sober yet surprising Saint Michel church
- See our dedicated article (coming soon)
How to get there
- Next to Saint-Tropez
- From Saint-Tropez: 20min drive
- From Saint-Raphaël: 1 hour’s drive
- Narrow underground parking lot, but also several outdoor parking lots, including one on the side of the mill, free of charge.
- You can also take the little train to visit Port Grimaud and Grimaud – find out more
Practical advice
- Like many of the villages in the region, it’s best to arrive early to make room.
- And it’s best to wear good shoes to climb up to the castle ruins.
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8. Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt
Why visit?
Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt is an authentic Luberon village that has preserved its Provencal character. Dominated by an ancient castle and a windmill, it offers a peaceful atmosphere far from the hustle and bustle of tourism.
We particularly appreciated the tranquility of this village, where time seems to stand still. Narrow lanes wind between ancient houses, vaulted passageways create pretty vistas. The Romanesque church, remnants of the ramparts and fortified gates bear witness to a rich medieval past.
From the mill, the view embraces the village and stretches across the plain to the Ventoux. Weekly markets liven up the village square, where you’ll find local produce. It’s an ideal place to discover authentic Provence.
The must-dos
- The fortified castle and the windmill
- Medieval alleyways
- Saint-Saturnin Romanesque church
- Remains of the ramparts
- See our dedicated article (coming soon)
How to get there
- In the Luberon, near Apt
- From Apt = 15min drive
- From Avignon = 1h15
- From Aix-en-Provence = 1h10
- Parking in the village center
- We recommend that you come by car
Practical advice
- A little-travelled village, perfect for a quiet visit
- Allow 1h30 to 2h to explore the village and the ruins above, but be careful, there’s no shade!
- Bring good shoes to explore the ruins
- The market takes place on Tuesday mornings
- A few restaurants and cafés on the main square
9. Roquebrune
Why visit?
Also perched on a hill, Roquebrune once again offers an unforgettable experience, steeped in history and Mediterranean charm. It’s a medieval village with narrow streets, tunnels and breathtaking views of the coast and Monaco.
What’s more, there’s a castle to visit at the top of this rocky spur for even more history and exceptional views.
We really enjoyed exploring the village and climbing to the top of the castle!
The must-dos
- Visit the castle
- Exploring the village to find the best viewpoints
- The old olive tree, a remarkable tree
- See our dedicated article
How to get there
- Between Menton and Monaco
- Menton to Roquebrune = 25min drive
- Nice to Roquebrune = 25min drive
- Monaco to Roquebrune = 15min
- There’s a good-sized parking lot under the village
- We recommend that you come by car
Practical advice
- As with all villages, come early enough to find parking easily.
- Take good shoes, as there are many steps, slopes and cobblestones.
- Make sure you drink plenty of water, there are a lot of stairs!
HAVE FUN WITH THESE activities
- Great kayak trips in:
Saint-Tropez to the Ramatuelle reserve
Cassis to the calanques - Helicopter flight from Cannes
- Shuttle service along the coast between Nice and Saint-Tropez
- Bike tours: eBike in Nice – Mountain biking in the Esterel massif
10. Mougins
Why visit?
With its medieval charm, refined cuisine and artistic ambience, Mougins has something to please every visitor. It’s a circular labyrinth of charming narrow cobbled streets. Its statue-decorated squares create an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Beware, it’s easy to get lost, but don’t worry, the village isn’t big, so you’ll easily find your way back (like us!).
The must-dos
- Admire mountain views (which may be snow-capped at certain times of the year)
- Getting lost in the alleys
- Visit the Musée d’Art Classique de Mougins, with its juxtaposition of ancient and modern works.
- See our dedicated article
How to get there
- Near Cannes
- From Cannes: 15min drive
- From Antibes: 20min drive
- From Nice: 30min drive
- It’s easier to come by car (or cab from Cannes).
Practical advice
- The parking lots are not very large, so come early enough to find a space easily.
- Avoid heeled shoes when exploring alleyways
- Mougins boasts a number of renowned restaurants. We thoroughly enjoyed our experience at Restaurant L’Amandier in Mougins.
11. Bormes-les-Mimosas
Why visit?
If you love villages in bloom, Bormes-les-Mimosas is one of the most beautiful on the Côte d’Azur. It’s a medieval village nestled on a hilltop, offering an authentic atmosphere and timeless charm. Its narrow streets and stone houses create the ideal atmosphere for a leisurely stroll.
The village has really made an effort to add plants and flowers everywhere.
The must-dos
- Views from the port
- The seafront promenade
- The center with its terraces
- Views of the region and the sea from the village, the castle ruins and the top of the tower of the Museum of History and Art.
- Saint-Trophyme church and its medieval architecture
- Medieval alleys
- See our dedicated article
How to get there
- Between Toulon and Saint-Tropez
- From Toulon: about 45 minutes by car
- From Saint-Tropez: about 45 minutes by car
- It’s easier to get there by car, as there’s a large underground pay parking lot.
Practical advice
- Don’t come too late to find space in the parking lot
- The village isn’t very big to explore. Allow 2 hours
- A choice of restaurants
12. Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Why visit?
After the village of Èze, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is undoubtedly one of the best-known villages on the Côte d’Azur. It combines medieval charm, a rich artistic history and magnificent views over the region.
It’s very well preserved and lively, with many art galleries and restaurants.
We particularly enjoyed strolling along the ramparts to admire the views over and around the village.
The village is renowned for its art scene (particularly in the 20th century). It has attracted many famous artists, including Marc Chagall, who lived and worked there, as well as Renoir and Picasso.
The must-dos
- Alleys with little gems for you to discover
- Walk along the fortifications
- Tomb of Chagall and the Maeght family
- The many art galleries
- The Maeght Foundation is a 5-minute drive away
- See our dedicated article
How to get there
- Between Antibes and Nice
- From Nice: 35min drive
- From Cannes: 45min drive
- From Antibes: 40min drive
- There is a multi-storey pay parking lot just outside the town center.
- or take a guided tour from Nice – see program
Practical advice
- The village is on a fairly flat area at the top of a hill, with not too many slopes or steps.
- Be careful on the fortifications, there is no protection.
- Avoid wearing shoes with heels, as the floors are cobbled.
13. Simiane-la-Rotonde
Why visit?
Simiane-la-Rotonde occupies a remarkable site on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Albion plateau. Its name evokes the medieval rotunda, an imposing vestige of an ancient fortified castle.
We were seduced by the authenticity of this Haute-Provence village. The stone houses huddle around the rotunda, the steep streets winding between the ancient residences. From the heights, the view extends over the lavender fields for which the region is famous (even though they’re not in flower in the photo above).
The rotunda itself is a unique building, with a dodecagonal structure and a cupola. Exhibitions are held there on a regular basis. The village also hosts a renowned herbal market, celebrating the botanical riches of the region.
The must-dos
- The medieval rotunda
- The alleys of the medieval village
- The surrounding lavender fields
- Aromatic plant market (early August)
How to get there
- Haute-Provence, north of Apt
- From Apt = 30min drive
- From Manosque = 50min
- From Avignon = 1h40
- Parking below and above the village
- We recommend that you come by car
Practical advice
- Not a touristy village, authentic atmosphere guaranteed
- The rotunda can be visited – check opening times
- Allow 1h30 for the village tour
- Best time of year: June-July for lavender flowers
- Some restaurants offering local cuisine
14. Ansouis
Why visit?
Ansouis is a remarkably well-preserved medieval village in the southern Luberon. Also dominated by its castle, it spreads out its old houses on the southern side of the hill.
We particularly appreciated the peaceful atmosphere of this village, classified as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France. The winding streets lead up to the castle, lined with golden stone mansions. The Musée Extraordinaire, an eclectic collection of unusual objects, adds a touch of originality to the visit.
The Château d’Ansouis, inhabited by the same family for more than a thousand years, is open to visitors and features beautifully furnished apartments. From the heights of the village, the view embraces the Durance valley and extends as far as the Luberon.
We enjoyed the gentle pace of life here
The must-dos
- Ansouis castle and gardens
- The extraordinary museum
- The cobbled streets
- Saint-Martin church
- See our dedicated article (coming soon)
How to get there
- South Luberon, near the Durance river
- From Aix-en-Provence = 40min drive
- From Apt = 40min
- From Avignon = 1h15
- Parking lot at village entrance
- We recommend that you come by car
Practical advice
- The château is open to visitors in the afternoon, so check the opening hours before you come.
- A little-travelled village, ideal for a quiet visit
- Allow 2 hours to visit the village and castle
- Good shoes recommended for the winding streets
- A few restaurants and a café on the square
15. Hauts-de-Cagnes
Why visit?
This village, with its cobbled streets, has attracted many artists, including Renoir and Matisse, as well as Josephine Backer, Suzy Solidor and Georges Simenon.
This charming village, a little less well-known than its neighbor Saint-Paul-de-Vence (#8), has it all: a hilltop location, charming little streets, a superb church, a château-museum, views in every direction!
The must-dos
- View of the surrounding hills
- Visit the Grimaldi castle-museum
- The magnificent Saint-Pierre Saint-Paul church and its original entrance.
- See our dedicated article (coming soon)
How to get there
- Between Antibes and Nice
- From Nice: 25min drive
- From Cannes: 40min drive
- From Antibes: 30min drive
- There’s an automatic parking lot close to the center: you leave your car and it’s transported to a parking space.
Practical advice
- Avoid shoes with heels, because of the small pebbles.
- The automatic parking lot fills up on summer days, so don’t come too late or you’ll have to park further away.
Other Provence villages to discover
And if you have even more time in Provence, we also recommend the following villages.
Bonnieux
Bonnieux is a perched village in the Luberon, terraced on the northern flank of the massif. We particularly enjoyed the climb up to the high church, from where the view embraces the valley and stretches as far as Mont Ventoux on a clear day. The cobbled streets wind between the stone houses, creating an authentic Provencal atmosphere. The village also boasts a low church, remnants of ramparts and several belvederes offering different views of the Luberon and the plain. It’s a less crowded village than neighboring Gordes, perfect for discovering the Luberon in a more tranquil setting.
Sainte-Agnès
Sainte-Agnès is an unspoilt medieval village, known as the highest coastal village in Europe. Perched at an altitude of 800m, it offers spectacular views of the sea on one side and the mountains on the other. We loved the narrow streets, stone houses and timeless atmosphere of this village. The Maginot Line Fort, carved into the rocky spur, bears witness to its military history. The castle ruins at the summit offer breathtaking panoramic views, even if the climb involves many steps.
Near Menton.
See our article.
Lourmarin
Lourmarin is an elegant village in the Luberon region, classified as one of France’s most beautiful villages. Its Renaissance castle and lively streets make it a popular destination.
We loved the lively atmosphere of this village, where cafés, art galleries and craft stores create a warm ambience. The central square, shaded by beautiful plane trees, hosts a renowned Provencal market on Friday mornings.
He’s a household name. We loved the château, but were less charmed by the village.
Gassin
Gassin, perched on a hill on the Saint-Tropez peninsula, is an authentic Provencal village combining medieval charm and panoramic views. With its cobbled streets and stone houses, Gassin offers a picturesque experience. The village is also renowned for its delicious Provencal cuisine, vineyards and peaceful atmosphere.
It didn’t transport us as far back in time as the other villages, but it still had its charm!
It has been awarded the “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” label.
Near Saint-Tropez.
Ramatuelle
Ramatuelle, nestled in the hills overlooking the famous bay of Pampelonne and its dreamy beach, is a tiny, picturesque Provencal village. It has a number of cobbled streets and stone houses. The village offers a little less exploration than the others, but we love all the scenic roads around it. Don’t miss the Cap Camarat lighthouse!
Near Saint-Tropez.
See our article.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Provence
- Inspiration
The most beautiful landscapes in 30 photos (coming soon)
What to do in Provence
Most beautiful cities in Provence (coming soon)
Most beautiful villages
Most beautiful castles (coming soon)
Most beautiful gardens (coming soon)
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Secret places (coming soon)
- Practical advice
A successful trip to Provence (coming soon)
Rent a car in Provence – in Nice – in Cannes – in Marseille – in Aix-en-Provence.
Itineraries: 5 days – 1 week – 10 days (coming soon)
Weekend ideas: best-of – romantic – luxury – unusual (coming soon)
- Where to stay
Where to stay in Provence (coming soon)
Best luxury hotels in Provence (coming soon)
- The must-dos
What to do in Marseille
What to do in Aix-en-Provence
What to do in Avignon (coming soon)
What to do in Arles (coming soon)
Best things to do in Nice
Best things to do in Cannes
Best things to do in Antibes
Best things to do in Monaco
Best things to do in Saint-Tropez
Best things to do in Cassis
