Provence, located in the south of France, is a dream destination known for its beautiful lavender fields, charming old towns, and stunning Mediterranean coastline. Whether you want to stroll under the sun or sip wine in a vineyard, Provence offers endless experiences. For travelers planning to explore this beautiful region, knowing how to get there is essential. I will give you a detailed guide on the most common ways to reach Provence, helping you easily plan your journey.
1. By Air: A Convenient Air Journey
Provence is well-served by several transportation options, and flying into the region is one of the most efficient and convenient ways to begin your journey. The primary international airport serving Provence is Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), located just outside the city of Marseille, which is the largest city in the region. This airport is an ideal entry point for visitors, as it is strategically positioned near several of Provence’s most popular destinations, such as Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, and Nîmes.
From Paris to Provence
If you’re coming from Paris, the flight to Marseille takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a quick and easy way to reach the region. You can catch a flight from either Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) or Orly Airport (ORY), both of which are major international hubs. The frequent flights between Paris and Marseille make it very convenient for travelers. Air France, as well as several low-cost carriers like EasyJet, operate regular flights to Marseille, so you have plenty of options to choose from.
International Flights to Marseille
For travelers coming from abroad, Marseille Provence Airport offers direct international flights from various countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and several other European destinations. International flights typically land at Marseille Provence Airport after around 2 to 3 hours of flight time, depending on your departure city. For example, direct flights from London take about 2 hours, while flights from the United States (like New York) can take roughly 8 to 9 hours.
Upon arriving at the airport, you’ll find multiple convenient transportation options to reach your final destination in Provence.
Getting from Marseille Airport to the Rest of Provence
Once you land at Marseille Provence Airport, getting to your next destination in the region is simple and straightforward. Here are the main options:
By Shuttle/Taxi: There are also airport shuttle services and taxis available that can take you directly to your destination. A taxi ride from the airport to Aix-en-Provence costs around 60 to 70 euros, while to Avignon it costs about 120 to 140 euros.
By Car: Renting a car from the airport is one of the most flexible and convenient ways to travel around Provence. From the airport, it takes about 30 minutes to drive to Aix-en-Provence, and around 1 hour to reach Avignon. The roads are well-maintained, and renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the picturesque countryside and charming towns at your own pace.
By Train: There is a train station at the airport, with direct connections to Marseille and other cities in Provence. If you’re heading to Marseille, the train ride takes about 25 minutes. If you’re heading further into Provence, you can easily transfer to other trains at the Marseille train station.
2. By Train: Travel Through France’s Scenic Landscape
If you prefer a more scenic and cultural approach to your journey, taking the train to Provence is an excellent option. France’s famous high-speed trains (TGV) provide an efficient and comfortable way to travel from major cities like Paris to Provence. The TGV network connects all major cities in France, and the journey to Provence is not only fast but also offers travelers the opportunity to enjoy the stunning landscapes of the French countryside.
From Paris to Provence by Train
The journey from Paris to Provence by TGV is an unforgettable experience. From Gare de Lyon in Paris, you can board a high-speed TGV train to Marseille, which takes about 3 hours. Alternatively, you can take the TGV to Avignon, which is about 2 hours and 50 minutes away. The journey is comfortable, with spacious seats, Wi-Fi, and onboard services like food and drinks, making it easy to relax and enjoy the ride.
As the train speeds through the beautiful French countryside, you’ll pass fields of sunflowers, vineyards, and the Alpilles mountains, providing a picture-perfect view out of the window. For me, it’s one of the best ways to arrive in Provence, as the scenery alone is worth the trip.
Scenic Train Routes
The TGV to Provence offers some of the most scenic views in France, especially as you approach the region. You’ll pass the iconic Provençal hills, olive groves, and rolling vineyards as the train makes its way through the countryside. It’s truly a visual treat, and the experience adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your journey. Whether it’s your first time in Provence or you’ve visited before, the train ride will leave you with memories of beautiful landscapes to look back on.
Booking Your Train Ticket
Train schedules are frequent, and tickets are relatively easy to purchase, either online or at the station. SNCF, the national railway company, runs regular TGV trains to Marseille, Avignon, Nîmes, and other cities in Provence. I recommend booking your tickets in advance to secure the best prices. The SNCF website or apps like Trainline make booking quick and easy.
Additionally, for foreign travelers, the France Rail Pass is a great option if you plan to visit multiple destinations across France. The pass offers unlimited train travel for a set number of days, making it a cost-effective option for travelers who want to explore France beyond Provence. It’s available for tourists from outside the European Union and can be used for unlimited travel on the TGV and other regional trains within France.
Train Advantages Over Other Transport
Compared to driving or flying, the train offers several advantages. Not only is it comfortable and relaxing, but it also allows you to see more of the region’s beauty. The train station in Marseille is centrally located, making it easy to catch a cab or transfer to a local train to reach your final destination. Plus, you avoid the stress of driving or the hassle of dealing with airports. Trains in France are punctual, comfortable, and clean, making them an excellent choice for travelers who want a smooth and scenic journey to Provence.
3. By Car: Explore Provence at Your Own Pace
If you prefer to move around freely between the charming villages and attractions in Provence, renting a car is undoubtedly the best and most convenient option. Provence boasts many scenic country roads and picturesque routes, making driving through the region an unforgettable experience.
You can easily rent a car in Marseille or Avignon from one of the local car rental agencies. I recommend renting a small or mid-sized car, which is more suitable for navigating the narrow roads in the countryside. The roads in Provence are well-marked, and traffic is generally smooth, so even if you are a foreign traveler, you won’t face much difficulty while driving.
The main advantage of driving is the flexibility it offers. You can stop whenever you like to enjoy the scenery or spend more time in a small town. One of my favorite things to do is to drive along the Route des Vins, the wine route of Provence, which passes through charming villages and vineyards. You can stop at some of the local wineries, taste their wines, and even visit the wine cellars to learn more about the region’s winemaking culture.
Driving also gives you the freedom to explore various parts of Provence at your own pace. For example, you can visit Arles, a city rich in artistic history, or head to Nice to enjoy the Mediterranean beaches and sunshine.
4. Public Transportation: Convenient Buses and Local Trains
If you prefer not to drive, you can still easily explore Provence by using the region’s public transportation options. Provence is well-served by buses and local trains, making it easy to get around.
There are frequent bus and train services between Avignon and Marseille, and ticket prices are quite affordable, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers. You can check schedules and prices on the SNCF website or Lignes Express Régionales to plan your route. Tickets can also be purchased in advance.
Public transportation is particularly suitable for visitors who plan to stay within a few major cities and towns in Provence. During the spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant, public transportation can be a comfortable and economical way to explore.
Provence is a breathtaking destination, whether you are looking to immerse yourself in its culture, history, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature. No matter how you choose to get to Provence—by air, train, car, or public transportation—you will easily find a way to reach this captivating region and start your unforgettable journey.
When planning your trip, consider the convenience of transportation options and your specific needs. I personally recommend driving or taking the train, as these allow you to enjoy both comfort and the beautiful views of Provence. I hope this guide has provided some useful travel tips to make your Provence adventure even more memorable!
