The Provence region is a popular travel destination located in southeastern France and adjacent to Italy. Provence’s geography ranges from the Mediterranean seaside to rolling hills dotted with vineyards to the majestic Alpes d’Azur. Most of the region’s climate is characterized as Mediterranean, meaning abundant sunshine, dry summers and mild winters with little snow. The mistral wind is an important feature of the climate; this cold, dry wind blows down the Rhone River valley and can reach speeds of 100 kilometers an hour. Many visitors travel to Provence for the spring lavender season; temperatures in May are especially pleasant.

 

 

History

Although Provence has been settled since prehistoric times, the region derives its name from being the first province settled by the Romans outside of Italy. In the 7th century BC, Greek sailors began to settle on the coast as they established depots to engage in trade with the locals. The language known as Provencal was widely spoken in the region until the early 20th century, but today it is spoken regularly by only a small percentage of the inhabits, most of them elderly. In current times, French is the main language spoken in Provence, although English is widely used as well.

 

Art & Museums

Many of the world’s most famous painters came to Provence in the 19th and 20th centuries, most likely drawn by the special clarity of light. As a result, Provence’s art museums are numerous and highly regarded. Notable museums include the Musée des Tapisseries and the Musée Granet in Aix en Provence, the Musée d'Art Contemporain and the Jules Cantini Museum in Marseille and the Musée Chagall in Nice.

 

Nightlife

There tend to be more options for nightlife in Provence in the larger cities such as Aix en Provence and Marseille, while the smaller towns generally close up for the night earlier. In Aix en Provence, Bar Sextius is a local hot spot offering live music and DJs, depending on the night. Popular clubs in Marseilles include the hipster hangout La Maronnaise and techno bar Le Bazar.

 

How to get there

Many airlines fly into Marseille-Provence International Airport from cities in Europe and beyond. Thanks to the high-speed rail service TGV, travel from Paris to Aix-en-Provence takes only three hours, to Avignon is 2¾ hours, and Marseille is three hours away by rail.