Provence is a region with many sides, which is what makes it so famous; in other words, there are two Provences: a Provence of the land and a Provence of the sea. On the Mediterranean side, Marseille and its calanques invite you to relax by the water to the sound of cicadas, while inland you can wander through a sun-drenched countryside of traditional villages that capture all the charm of Marcel Pagnol’s Provence.
As summer and sunny days draw near, pack your bags and discover with us everything that Provence in summer has in store for an unforgettable stay in the south of France!
The charm of Provence in summer
Provence is a dream destination for anyone looking for sunny summer holidays; picture yourself spending peaceful afternoons lounging by a pool, taking in stunning views over the Provençal countryside to the soundtrack of cicadas—heard everywhere in the south of France, in the countryside as well as in cities like Aix-en-Provence and in Provençal villages. Summer in Provence is also a chance to meet friends on a café terrace for a refreshing drink—a cocktail (with or without alcohol), an ice-cold beer, or a chilled soft drink.
You might also get the chance to try the local sport: pétanque! You’ll find official or makeshift pétanque courts just about everywhere in villages, often in the shade of plane trees. If the court is deserted in the early afternoon, you’ll often find it busy in the morning before temperatures peak, and again in the late afternoon between siesta time and apéritif time. You’ve got it: this way of life is a must to experience when you visit Provence in summer!
Must-do Provençal summer activities and experiences
Summer in Provence is a season packed with outdoor activities and cultural, artistic, and food events. Whether you love theatre, music, nature, or gastronomy, Provence will have something for you.
For hiking enthusiasts, Provence is a true natural escape open to everyone, where adventure and well-being become one; to discover inland Provence, nothing beats a hike in the Luberon, with its wonderfully pleasant temperatures, soothing pine forests, and typical Provençal villages. For those who want to combine the Mediterranean Sea and hiking, the calanques between Marseille and Cassis are a must, with trails laid out so visitors can find exactly what they’re looking for.
When it comes to events, summer in Provence is the ideal season to make the most of festivals of all kinds—here’s a small selection:
- The La Roque d’Anthéron Piano Festival: from July 20 to August 18, this festival has become a must for classical music lovers and budding music fans alike. Set in the majestic Parc du Château de Florans, it’s renowned for the exceptional quality of its concerts and the beauty of its venues, from parks and gardens to churches. On the programme: the world’s greatest pianists and promising young talents.
- The Avignon Festival: every summer, the City of Popes becomes a true open-air theatre, bringing together artists and audiences from all over the world. For three weeks in July, there are more than 1,000 shows, from classical theatre to more contemporary performances, taking place in the streets, squares, and chapels of the city, as well as in iconic venues like the Cour d’Honneur of the Palais des Papes.
- Les Rencontres de la Photographie d’Arles: held during the summer in Arles, this event is a major highlight for photography lovers. Each year, the festival offers visitors exhibitions, screenings, workshops, and talks across several historic sites in the city—churches, galleries, and even industrial warehouses! A must-see event to dive into the rich and diverse visual world of contemporary photography.
Another way to discover Provence in summer is through its gastronomy: olive oil, garlic, almonds, tomatoes, melons, goat’s cheese, lamb, and herbs have made the region famous, where dishes follow the rhythm of land and sea—something you can taste on the plate. Typical dishes include bouillabaisse, a traditional Marseille fish stew made with tomato, fennel, garlic, and saffron that you can enjoy on the coast; Provençal ratatouille, with its summer vegetables, which makes an excellent side for grilled meat; and pissaladière, a Niçoise speciality made with black olives and anchovy fillets, somewhere between a quiche and a pizza. For apéritif lovers, in addition to the excellent wines and spirits you’ll find on most terrace tables—like Provençal rosé or Marseille pastis—you can also enjoy iconic, flavourful condiments such as tapenade or aioli, among others.
Itineraries inspired by Pagnol’s work
When you think of Provence in summer, it’s hard not to think of Marcel Pagnol, the famous writer whose works beautifully capture Provence and its way of life. He spent his childhood in Aubagne, and today you can follow scenic trails on guided walks through the surrounding hills to discover both his work and the region. From the Domaine de la Font de Mai, you’ll discover the places mentioned by Pagnol in his books and films on a walking hike of around 9 kilometres. You’ll pass by the Mas de Massacan, Angèle’s farm, the Raimu well, the Panturle house, the Bastide Neuve… all familiar names, especially if you know Pagnol’s work.
Come and experience your summer in Provence!
Provence in summer is made for you if you’re looking for all-round holidays with plenty of choice: it’s full of activities, sunshine, and all kinds of natural wonders. Whether you love wide-open natural spaces or the charm of small Provençal villages, you’ll be delighted!
To make your summer stay easier, Plaisirs & Maisons de Provence offers accommodation tailored to your needs and close to the various activities we’ve suggested—so make the most of it!