Private Europe tour (FRA007) South France - Provence (6 Days 5 Nights)

We pick you up at Nice Airport, then take you to explore Nice, a luxurious seaside city in the South of France. Visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Nice (BASILQUE NOTRE-DAME DE NICE), the city's largest church, and enjoy sightseeing to the fullest in private tour style.

Next, depart for Cannes (CANNES) (35 km), a charming seaside town with warm weather all year round, well known to Thai travelers as the host of the world-famous international film festival.

Visit the Palais des Festivals (PALAIS DES FESTIVALS), the festival venue featuring handprints of famous Hollywood stars pressed into the cement for you to view and photograph as keepsakes, and take a stroll along Boulevard de la Croisette, one of the most fashionable beachfront promenades in the world.

Lined with palm trees, luxury boutiques, and plenty of delightful shops to explore.

hotel Overnight Cannes area

In the morning, depart for Grasse (20 km), the world's perfume capital behind the iconic essence of Chanel No. 5. If desired, visit a historic perfumery founded in the 16th century, or take a scenic walk through the lovely town center.

Continue on to the village of Castellane (65 km), the gateway to the Gorges du Verdon. This historic town features ancient architecture, a historic clock tower, a stone bridge, and a 12th-century church, making it a true highlight of the trip.

hotel Overnight Around Castellane Village (Castellene)

In the morning, we head to the Verdon Gorge (Les Gorges du Verdon) (30 km), famously known as the Grand Canyon of France. Below lies a stunning turquoise river winding through the gorge. This is the largest canyon in Europe and an absolute must-visit spot for incredible photos!

Afterward, we continue to Valensole (60 km), a charming small town that serves as the heart of France's vastest lavender fields. You will have plenty of free time to explore the town and discover its lovely hidden corners.

hotel Overnight Valensole area

This morning, we continue our journey through Provence to Manosque (25 km), home to the famous factory of L’Occitane en Provence, whose products are exported to 85 countries worldwide.

You can shop for all-natural L’Occitane products made from ingredients such as lavender, orange blossom, olive, honey, almond, verbena, and more to your heart's content.

Next, we take the scenic lavender route through the Luberon mountain range, a French regional natural park nestled in the heart of Provence. Across its northern and southern valleys lie picturesque historic clifftop villages surrounded by fragrant, blooming purple lavender fields.

We then travel on to Gordes (65 km), a renowned wine-producing area and home to the 6,000-year-old stone village (Le Village des Bories). Officially recognized as one of the most beautiful villages in France, it is also a fantastic place for shopping that you definitely should not miss!

Next, we stop for photos at the hottest, most famous spot in Provence right in front of Senanque Abbey (Abbaye de Senanque) (a 5 km drive). The blooming purple lavender field against the abbey backdrop is an iconic must-see view! Please keep in mind that the lavender here blooms only from June until July 14, as it is traditionally harvested on French National Day (Bastille Day).

In the morning, we take you to visit Sault, another historic town in Provence. It is especially popular to visit during the lavender blooming season, but even when the flowers are not in bloom, the town itself is a charming historic place well worth exploring. Most buildings feature charming Provencal architecture. Sault was once a glassmaking center, perfect for a stroll with its church, museums, shops, souvenir stores, and lovely cafes. Perched on a hill, the town offers picturesque photo spots and is one of the iconic, must-see destinations in the region. We will spend our morning exploring here.

Next, we head to Avignon (50 km), a major highlight of Provence known as THE JEWELS OF THE SOUTHERN RHONE. This medieval city became the seat of the Papacy when Pope Clement V fled political turmoil in Rome to establish a religious center here.

Today, Avignon is renowned for arts and entertainment. It is an ancient walled city that is especially lively in July during its famous theatre and music festival, which coincides nicely with the lavender blooming season.

Visit the Palais des Papes (Papal Palace), once the residence of 7 popes and designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visit Pont Saint-Benezet (or Pont d’Avignon), the historic bridge crossing the Rhône River.

Overnight in Avignon (If time permits, you can visit other nearby towns such as Arles or Nimes, ideally in the morning before returning to stay overnight in Avignon).

We will arrange transportation to drop you off for the high-speed train to Paris, bringing your trip to a wonderful conclusion. (Train tickets at your own expense.)