Dreaming of lavender fields and charming villages with your little ones? Provence offers a magical escape filled with history, nature, and delicious food. This guide unlocks the secrets of a perfect France family holidays to Provence with kids!
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Why Visit Provence With Kids?
- Sun-drenched landscapes: Rolling lavender fields, vineyards, and charming villages create a picture-perfect backdrop for family memories.
- History comes alive: From Roman ruins to medieval castles, Provence is a treasure trove for budding explorers.
- Foodie paradise: Indulge in fresh, delicious cuisine—think flaky croissants at open-air markets, picnic lunches amongst lavender, and kid-friendly ice cream in picturesque squares.
- Outdoor adventures: Hike through stunning Gorges du Verdon, kayak on the calm waters of the Calanques, or bike through vineyards—endless options for active families.
- Family-friendly atmosphere: Provençals adore children—expect welcoming smiles and child-friendly amenities at restaurants and attractions.
Things to Do in Provence With Kids
- Explore charming villages: Wander cobbled streets in Roussillon, marvel at ochre cliffs in Roussillon, climb the ramparts of Carcassonne, or get lost in the medieval maze of Gordes.
- Go lavender chasing: Time your trip for late June to mid-July to witness the iconic lavender fields in full bloom. Visit Valensole Plateau, Sault, or the Luberon for breathtaking purple vistas.
- Cool off at the beach: The French Riviera beckons with its stunning coastline. Build sandcastles on the beaches of Saint-Tropez, explore hidden coves by kayak in Cassis, or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Calanques National Park.
- Travel back in time: Immerse your family in Roman history at the Pont du Gard, an impressive Roman aqueduct, or explore the ancient city of Arles, home to Roman amphitheaters and a Roman necropolis.
- Discover the world of ochre: Learn about the unique ochre pigment used in the region at the Colorado Provençal in Rustrel. Hike through ochre trails, marvel at colorful cliffs, and even participate in a family-friendly ochre painting workshop.
Best Places to Visit in Provence with Kids
- Luberon: Explore charming hilltop villages like Gordes, Roussillon, and Ménerbes, known for their ochre-colored houses and stunning views. Take a bike ride through vineyards, visit the impressive Sénanque Abbey, or cool off at the Fontaine de Vaucluse, the source of the Sorgue River.
- French Riviera: Experience the glamour of the Côte d’Azur with your kids. Soak up the sun on the beaches of Saint-Tropez or Cannes, explore hidden coves by kayak in Cassis, or hike the stunning Calanques National Park with dramatic cliff formations.
- Gorges du Verdon: Embark on an adventurous escape in Europe’s Grand Canyon. Hike through the dramatic gorges, admire breathtaking viewpoints like Point Sublime, cool off with a swim in the turquoise Verdon River, or take a thrilling kayak or boat tour.
- Camargue: Discover a unique ecosystem with your family. Spot wild horses and flamingos in the Rhône delta, visit the charming town of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, or learn about traditional Camargue bullfighting at the Manade des Baumelles.
- Avignon: Immerse your kids in history with a visit to the impressive Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the medieval ramparts, stroll through the vibrant streets filled with shops and cafes, and don’t miss the famous Pont d’Avignon, a bridge on the Rhône River.
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Provence
- Luberon: Opt for a charming village like Gordes, Roussillon, or Ménerbes for a quintessential Provençal experience. Enjoy breathtaking views, easy access to hiking trails, and a close-knit community atmosphere.
- French Riviera: Immerse yourself in the glamour of the Côte d’Azur by staying in Saint-Tropez, Cannes, or Juan-les-Pins. Enjoy the best beaches, luxurious amenities, and proximity to vibrant nightlife, but be prepared for higher prices.
- Gorges du Verdon: Choose a charming village like Castellane, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, or La Palud-sur-Verdon for a base camp for outdoor adventures. Find budget-friendly options, stunning natural surroundings, and easy access to hiking trails and water activities.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Provence
- Le Clos du Papé (Luberon): Nestled amidst vineyards near Roussillon, this charming hotel offers family rooms, a swimming pool, a playground, and even a petting zoo, making it perfect for keeping kids entertained.
- Mas des Bois (French Riviera): Located near Saint-Tropez, this beautiful resort offers a family-friendly atmosphere with spacious rooms, a kids’ club, multiple swimming pools, and a dedicated playground.
- Auberge des Gorges (Gorges du Verdon): This family-run hotel in Castellane provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. It features comfortable rooms, a swimming pool with a dedicated children’s section, and easy access to outdoor activities.
- Mas de Cachau (Camargue): Immerse yourselves in Camargue life at this traditional farmhouse hotel. They offer spacious family rooms and horseback riding tours.
Best Time to Visit Provence with Kids
- Shoulder Seasons (April-May & September-October): Enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds compared to peak summer, and vibrant landscapes with blooming wildflowers in spring or colorful foliage in autumn. Ideal for outdoor activities without scorching heat.
- Early Summer (June): Experience Provence bathed in warm sunshine, with lavender fields starting to bloom in late June. Perfect for capturing those iconic purple vistas, but be prepared for some crowds, especially during weekends.
- Avoid Peak Summer (July-August): While the weather is undeniably hot and sunny, Provence can get very crowded, especially in popular areas. Expect long lines at attractions, higher prices, and scorching temperatures that might be uncomfortable for young children.
How Long to Stay in Provence
- Short Break (3-4 days): Ideal for a first-time visit or a weekend getaway. Focus on one region, like the Luberon or the French Riviera, to get a taste of Provençal charm and explore key highlights.
- Family Adventure (7-10 days): Explore different regions of Provence at a relaxed pace. Combine charming villages in the Luberon with beach days on the French Riviera, or add an adventurous escape in the Gorges du Verdon.
- Immersive Experience (2 weeks or more): Perfect for families who want to truly delve into Provençal life. Rent a charming farmhouse, explore hidden villages, participate in cooking classes, and soak up the slow pace of life in this beautiful region.
Provence Family Itinerary – 7 Days
Day 1-3: Arrive in Avignon, explore the impressive Palais des Papes and the lively city center. Rent a car and drive to the Luberon region.
- Stay in a charming village like Gordes or Roussillon.
- Explore hilltop villages, visit the Sénanque Abbey, and take a bike ride through vineyards.
- Go lavender chasing in the Valensole Plateau (late June-mid-July).
Day 4-5: Head towards the French Riviera.
- Spend a day at the beach in Saint-Tropez or explore the coves of Cassis by kayak.
- Take a family-friendly hike in the stunning Calanques National Park.
Day 6-7: Drive to the Gorges du Verdon for an adventurous finale.
- Hike through the dramatic gorges, take a scenic boat tour on the Verdon River, or cool off with a swim in the turquoise waters.
- Depart from Marseille airport or enjoy one last night in Aix-en-Provence.
Getting Around Provence
- Car: The most convenient option for families, offering flexibility and freedom to explore at your own pace. However, be aware of potentially high gas prices and limited parking options in some villages.
- Train: A good choice for traveling between major towns like Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Marseille. Trains are comfortable and scenic, but exploring smaller villages might require additional transportation like buses or taxis.
- Bikes: A fun and eco-friendly way to explore the charming villages and countryside of Provence. Many towns offer bike rentals, and several routes are suitable for families with older children.
Remember:
- Consider packing light clothes, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and hats for the sunny weather.
- Bring a few basic French phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
- Many restaurants offer children’s menus, and most cafes welcome families.
- Stock up on picnic essentials like fresh bread, cheese, and fruit from local markets for a delightful Provençal lunch amidst nature.
Provence awaits you and your family with its warm sunshine, breathtaking landscapes, and endless adventures. With a little planning and these helpful tips, you’re sure to create lasting memories on your unforgettable Provençal getaway!
