10-Day Provence Itinerary With Kids: Family Fun Bases

Planning a 10-day Provence itinerary with kids can feel like a delightful challenge, can't it? You want to capture the essence of this magical region – the lavender fields, the charming villages, the delicious food – all while keeping the little ones engaged and happy. The key to a successful family adventure in Provence is often choosing the right base locations. Instead of moving every night, selecting 2-3 strategic spots allows for deeper exploration, less packing and unpacking (a win for everyone!), and more downtime. This itinerary is designed to give you a taste of Provence's diverse landscapes and activities, perfect for families looking for a balanced mix of culture, nature, and pure enjoyment. We'll focus on areas that offer easy access to attractions suitable for children, beautiful scenery, and comfortable accommodation options.

Choosing Your Provence Family Bases

When thinking about Provence family bases, it's important to consider what kind of experience you're seeking. Are you dreaming of rolling hills dotted with vineyards, or do you prefer being closer to historical sites and bustling markets? For a 10-day trip, aiming for two or perhaps three well-chosen bases will provide a fantastic balance. Our first suggestion for a base is the Luberon Valley. This area is iconic Provence, known for its picturesque hilltop villages like Gordes, Roussillon (with its ochre cliffs!), and Bonnieux. It’s incredibly scenic, relatively safe for exploring with children, and offers a wealth of family-friendly activities. Think of staying in a gîte (a holiday rental home) or a villa here, giving you space to spread out and a kitchen for easy breakfasts and snacks. The Luberon is central to many child-friendly attractions, making it an ideal starting point. Our second base recommendation shifts the focus slightly, bringing you closer to Roman history and vibrant city life, but still retaining that Provençal charm: Avignon or its surroundings. Avignon itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site with its famous Palais des Papes, offering a glimpse into medieval history that can be quite engaging for older children. However, for families, staying in a quieter town just outside Avignon, like Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, might offer a more relaxed atmosphere with easier access to amenities. This location also provides excellent connectivity for day trips to other significant sites like the Pont du Gard. If you're looking for a third base, consider venturing towards the Alpilles region, perhaps near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. This area offers a different, slightly wilder beauty, famous for its olive groves, ancient ruins (Glanum), and proximity to the dramatic landscapes of the Camargue. It's a place where you can really feel the natural spirit of Provence, with opportunities for light hiking and exploring nature reserves. By selecting these varied bases, you ensure your 10-day Provence itinerary with kids covers different facets of the region, from its postcard-perfect villages to its historical heart and natural wonders, all while minimizing travel stress.

Days 1-3: Luberon Valley Charm

Welcome to Provence! For the first leg of your 10-day Provence itinerary with kids, we'll immerse ourselves in the enchanting Luberon Valley. This area is the quintessential postcard of Provence, with its golden stone villages perched atop rolling hills, vibrant green vineyards, and the intoxicating scent of herbs in the air. We suggest basing yourselves in or very near a village like Bonnieux, Ménerbes, or Gordes. These villages offer a fairytale setting and are surprisingly accommodating for families. Look for a gîte or a villa with a pool – a guaranteed hit with the children after a day of exploring. Upon arrival, settle in and perhaps take a leisurely stroll through your chosen village. Let the kids marvel at the narrow, winding streets, discover hidden squares, and perhaps enjoy their first taste of authentic glace (ice cream) or crêpes. On Day 1, after settling in, a relaxed afternoon exploring your immediate surroundings is perfect. The pace here is slow, and that's exactly what you want with kids. Day 2 is dedicated to the ochre wonders of Roussillon. This village is famous for its vibrant red and yellow cliffs, a result of the natural ochre deposits. Take the Ochre Trail (Sentier des Ocres) – it's a relatively easy walk, and the children will be fascinated by the kaleidoscope of colours. Imagine them running through a landscape that looks almost Martian! Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst this unique scenery. In the afternoon, perhaps visit the nearby village of Gordes, often considered one of the most beautiful villages in France. While it can be crowded, its stunning architecture and castle are impressive. Find a spot for a coffee or a cool drink and just soak in the views. Day 3 offers a choice: either explore the charming market town of Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (especially lively on a Sunday if your visit aligns), known for its antique shops and canals, or venture to the Colorado Provençal in Rustrel for another dose of colourful landscapes, often less crowded than Roussillon. Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is fantastic for a wander, with little bridges and water wheels to discover. For lunch, find a bistro by the Sorgue river. Alternatively, the Colorado Provençal offers another opportunity for kids to scramble and explore colourful earth formations. Whichever you choose, ensure there's ample time for the pool back at your accommodation. This initial immersion in the Luberon provides a gentle introduction to the magic of Provence, setting a relaxed and visually stimulating tone for the rest of your 10-day Provence itinerary with kids.

Days 4-6: Avignon and Roman Echoes

After soaking in the hilltop serenity of the Luberon, your 10-day Provence itinerary with kids now moves towards the historical heartland, with Avignon as your next key base or a gateway to it. Avignon, famously known for the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), offers a fascinating dive into medieval history that can captivate children, especially those who enjoy stories of kings, queens, and grand fortresses. We recommend staying in or very close to Avignon, perhaps in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, which offers a slightly more tranquil setting while still being incredibly convenient. This area provides a great balance of historical exploration and modern amenities. On Day 4, upon arrival, dedicate the afternoon to exploring the Palais des Papes. Its sheer scale is impressive, and you can easily imagine the historical dramas that unfolded within its walls. Many tours are available, some tailored for families, making the history come alive. Afterwards, take a walk across the famous Pont d'Avignon (Pont Saint-Bénézet). While only a fragment remains, the story behind its construction and the legend of the song add an element of fun for kids. Find a spot on the riverbank for some downtime. Day 5 is a spectacular excursion to the Pont du Gard. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a remarkably preserved Roman aqueduct, and it’s an absolute must-see. Children are often awestruck by the engineering prowess of the Romans. There's a fantastic museum on site, and you can even rent kayaks or paddleboards to get a unique perspective from the river below (age restrictions may apply, so check in advance). Pack a picnic to enjoy by the Gardon river – it's a beautiful setting for a family lunch. The sheer scale and intact nature of the Pont du Gard make it an unforgettable experience for all ages. In the afternoon, head back towards Avignon and perhaps explore the Rocher des Doms gardens, offering panoramic views over the city and the Rhône river. Day 6 offers a choice depending on your family's interests. You could spend more time exploring Avignon's charming streets, visiting the Musée du Petit Palais for art lovers, or seeking out the local market for delicious Provençal produce and crafts. Alternatively, consider a short trip to Villeneuve-lès-Avignon itself, with its own fortress (Fort Saint-André) offering more historical exploration and stunning views. Another option is to visit the nearby karting track if your children are thrill-seekers, or find a local farm offering 'La Cueillette' (pick-your-own) experiences for fruits and vegetables, which kids absolutely adore. This segment of your 10-day Provence itinerary with kids blends significant historical landmarks with engaging activities, ensuring a memorable and educational experience for the whole family.

Days 7-9: Alpilles Natural Beauty & Van Gogh

As your 10-day Provence itinerary with kids enters its final stretch, we'll move to the breathtaking Alpilles region, known for its rugged landscapes, ancient sites, and artistic heritage. This area offers a wonderful contrast to the previous locations, providing opportunities for gentle exploration of nature and a connection to the life and work of Vincent van Gogh. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence makes for an excellent base here, offering a charming town center with plenty of amenities, restaurants, and artisan shops. It’s a place that feels deeply Provençal and is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. On Day 7, upon settling into your accommodation, take the afternoon to explore Saint-Rémy-de-Provence itself. Wander through its shaded streets, discover the local market (if your timing aligns), and perhaps visit the Collège Van Gogh, where the artist studied. More importantly for family engagement, visit the ancient Roman ruins of Glanum, located just outside town. These remarkably well-preserved ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into Roman life and are often less crowded than other major historical sites, allowing children space to explore and imagine. Day 8 is dedicated to nature and art. In the morning, drive to Les Baux-de-Provence, a spectacular medieval village dramatically perched on a rocky outcrop. Explore its castle ruins – the children will love playing knights and imagining sieges. The Carrières de Lumières (Quarry of Lights) nearby is an absolute must-do. This is a unique multimedia art exhibition set within an ancient quarry, where famous artworks are projected onto the massive stone walls accompanied by music. It's an incredibly immersive and magical experience that even young children will find captivating. In the afternoon, consider a visit to Saint-Paul de Mausole, the asylum where Van Gogh spent a year and created some of his most famous works, including 'Starry Night'. While it might be a more somber experience, seeing the places that inspired such art can be profound. Alternatively, if the kids need more active fun, seek out a local ferme pédagogique (educational farm) or a gentle hike in the Alpilles Natural Park. Day 9 offers a chance to explore the natural side of Provence further. Drive through the scenic Alpilles Natural Park, stopping at viewpoints for photos. You could visit an olive oil mill for a tasting (many offer family-friendly tours) or explore the charming village of Eygalières. For a truly unique experience, consider a half-day trip to the Camargue National Park, a vast wetland famous for its white horses, flamingos, and unique traditions. It offers a different kind of natural beauty and a chance for wildlife spotting. This final segment of your 10-day Provence itinerary with kids blends historical discovery, artistic inspiration, and natural exploration, providing a rich and varied conclusion to your family adventure.

Day 10: Departure

Your 10-day Provence itinerary with kids has been a whirlwind of color, history, and delicious flavors! On Day 10, it's time to savor one last Provençal breakfast – perhaps some fresh croissants and pain au chocolat – before beginning your journey home. Depending on your flight or departure schedule, you might have time for a final stroll through your base town, picking up any last-minute souvenirs, or simply enjoying a peaceful moment at a local café. If you're departing from Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) or Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE), allow ample travel time, factoring in potential traffic, especially during peak season. Reflect on the incredible memories made, from the ochre cliffs of Roussillon to the grandeur of the Palais des Papes and the rugged beauty of the Alpilles. This itinerary is flexible, so feel free to adjust it based on your children's ages and interests. The key is to embrace the Provençal pace of life, enjoy the simple pleasures, and create a family experience that will be cherished for years to come. For more inspiration on family travel in France, check out France Tourism or The Local France for up-to-date information and tips.