Planning a South of France itinerary for 11 days can feel overwhelming. Too many regions, too little time.
We have designed this itinerary after planning dozens of South of France trips for first-time and repeat travelers. We know which routes work, which towns deserve two nights, and which stops are worth every minute.
This guide covers lavender fields, hilltop villages, coastal towns, and Monaco in one logical route. No fluff, no guesswork. Just a clear day-by-day plan so you can stop overthinking and start packing.
Trip Overview
This route starts in Paris and heads south by train to Aix-en-Provence, where you pick up a rental car and settle into the Provence pace. Over the first few days, you move through hilltop villages, lavender fields, and natural parks at a comfortable speed.
From there, the route shifts toward the coast through Les Baux-de-Provence, the beach town of Hyères, and the car-free island of Porquerolles.
The second half follows the French Riviera east through Cap d’Ail, Antibes, Èze, and Monaco before wrapping up in Nice.
The entire route flows in one direction with no backtracking, which saves time and cuts stress. Eleven days is the right amount of time to cover this ground without feeling rushed.
Trip Highlights
- Days 1 to 3: Provence villages, nature, and open landscapes. Walk the Calanques coastline, ride through the Camargue wetlands, and stand in front of the lavender fields at Sénanque Abbey near Gordes.
- Days 4 to 6: Countryside charm and the first taste of the coast. Wander the medieval streets of Les Baux-de-Provence, stop at local wineries, and spend a full day cycling the car-free island of Porquerolles near Hyères.
- Days 7 to 10: The French Riviera at its best. Walk the coastal path in Cap d'Ail, visit the Musée Picasso in Antibes, climb the hilltop village of Èze, and spend a day in Monaco. Most travelers say this stretch is the best part of the trip.
- Day 11: A slow morning in Nice, a walk along the Promenade des Anglais, and your return transfer from Nice airport or train station.