Discover how to get to and travel around Provence, including airports, trains, and car rentals. Explore the best ways to navigate this beautiful region, from driving to rural villages to using public transportation in major towns.
Getting to Provence
By Plane
Marseille-Provence Airport (MRS) is the primary international gateway for Provence, located close to the inland region and serving flights from major European cities and beyond.
Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) is useful if you’re traveling from the east or the Riviera, though it’s farther from inland Provence.
Avignon-Provence Airport (AVN) is a smaller airport for domestic and regional flights.
Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) is another option for those coming from farther afield, particularly useful for those exploring northern Provence.
By Train
The TGV (high-speed train) offers direct connections from Paris and other major cities, making it one of the fastest and most comfortable ways to reach Provence.
Aix-en-Provence TGV, Avignon TGV, and Marseille Saint-Charles are key stations for accessing inland Provence.
From Paris, the train to Aix-en-Provence or Avignon takes about 3 hours.
Regional TER trains provide connections between towns and cities within Provence, although they are slower than the TGV.
By Car
Provence is well connected by France's motorway system, with A7 (Autoroute du Soleil) running north to south through the region, making it easy to drive from Paris, Lyon, or other cities.
A8 (La Provençale) connects the region to the French Riviera, allowing travelers to access both coastal and inland areas.
Renting a car is highly recommended, particularly if you plan to visit smaller villages or rural areas, as public transport options can be limited.
By Bus
Regional bus networks, like LER (Lignes Express Régionales), connect major towns and cities in Provence, but services are limited in more rural areas.
Buses are slower but provide a cost-effective option for travel between larger towns like Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Arles.
Getting Around Provence
By Car
Driving is the most convenient way to explore Provence, especially if you plan to visit remote villages, vineyards, and nature reserves. Roads are generally well-maintained, and driving offers flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Parking can be challenging in city centers like Aix-en-Provence and Avignon, so consider using public transport within larger towns.
By Train
TER trains operate within Provence and provide connections between larger towns such as Marseille, Avignon, Arles, and Aix-en-Provence. While trains are frequent, they are not ideal for reaching smaller rural destinations.
High-speed TGV services are useful for traveling longer distances within Provence or to nearby regions.
By Bus
Bus services are more limited in rural areas, but the LER network connects towns like Apt, Gordes, and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence to larger cities.
In summer, additional tourist bus routes are often available to visit popular destinations like the Luberon and Les Baux-de-Provence.
By Bike
Provence is known for its scenic cycling routes, particularly in the Luberon and Ventoux areas. There are plenty of cycle-friendly roads and dedicated paths, making it a great option for those who enjoy active travel.
Bike rentals are widely available in towns and cities, and cycling is a wonderful way to explore Provence’s landscapes, vineyards, and hilltop villages.
By Foot
Provence is a hiker’s paradise with trails through stunning landscapes, including the Alpilles, Luberon, and Gorges du Verdon. Walking is ideal for nature lovers, with plenty of marked trails and paths through lavender fields, olive groves, and national parks.
By Taxi or Ride-Sharing
Taxis are available in larger towns but can be expensive for longer trips. Ride-sharing apps like BlaBlaCar are commonly used for intercity travel within Provence.
