5-Day Scenic Road Trip from Nice through the French Riviera and Provence in Reverse

Day 1: Antibes Coastal Charm

Nice to Antibes, France on June 19, 2025

2:00pm

Departure from Nice

Leave Nice in the early afternoon for a short 30-minute drive to Antibes to start your road trip along the coast.
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2:30pm

Explore Antibes Old Town and Picasso Museum

Discover the vibrant old town with its narrow streets, markets and visit the Picasso Museum located in the Château Grimaldi, open 10:00am-6:00pm.
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4:30pm

Walk the Cap d'Antibes Coastal Trail

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beautiful coastal paths with stunning sea views and elegant villas.
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6:00pm

Dinner at Les Vieux Murs, Antibes

Experience Mediterranean cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a charming and romantic setting.
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Day 2: Cassis and Mediterranean Coast

Antibes to Cassis, France on June 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Maison Auer, Antibes

Start your day with exceptional pastries and coffee at this noted patisserie.
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9:00am

Drive to Cassis

Take a coastal drive southeast for about 1 hour 15 minutes to reach Cassis, known for its turquoise coves and stunning cliffs.
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10:30am

Boat Trip in Calanques National Park

Enjoy a 2-3 hour boat expedition exploring the breathtaking limestone Calanques and hidden beaches, bookings recommended.
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1:30pm

Lunch at Chez Gilbert, Cassis

Savour fresh seafood dishes by the harbour, a local favourite for traditional bouillabaisse.
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3:00pm

Explore Cassis Town and Beaches

Take a relaxing stroll through Cassis’s old town and enjoy the beach or harbour views.
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5:30pm

Drive to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Head inland for a scenic 1 hour 15-minute drive to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence for your overnight stay.
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7:00pm

Dinner at a local bistro in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Enjoy Provençal fare such as ratatouille and fresh salads in a charming local restaurant.
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Day 3: Provençal Heritage & Avignon

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Avignon, France on June 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local café in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Relish a light breakfast with fresh croissants and café au lait to start your day well.
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9:00am

Visit Saint-Paul-de-Mausole Monastery

Tour the historical monastery where Van Gogh created some of his famous works, open 9:00am-6:00pm.
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10:30am

Explore Saint-Rémy Markets and Old Town

Discover artisan shops, local markets, and charming streets filled with Provençal atmosphere.
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12:00pm

Drive to Avignon

Drive approximately 30 minutes to Avignon, the historic city famed for its papal palace.
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12:30pm

Lunch at Le Caveau du Palais, Avignon

Dine on authentic Provencal meals near Palais des Papes in a welcoming, rustic atmosphere.
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2:00pm

Visit Palais des Papes

Explore this sprawling Gothic palace, one of the largest medieval Gothic buildings in Europe, open 9:00am-7:00pm.
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4:15pm

Walk Pont Saint-Bénézet (Avignon Bridge)

Stroll along the iconic medieval bridge with views over the Rhône river.
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5:30pm

Leisure time in Avignon Old Town

Relax and explore the shops or cafés within Avignon's delightful old town.
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7:00pm

Dinner at La Table d'Uzès, Avignon

Enjoy refined French cuisine rich in local ingredients near the historic centre.
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Day 4: Luberon Villages

Gordes and Bonnieux, France on June 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Les 5 Sens, Avignon

Indulge in a classic French breakfast with croissants and coffee in Avignon’s centre.
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9:00am

Drive to Gordes

Travel about 1 hour to Gordes, one of the most beautiful villages in France.
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10:00am

Explore Gordes and visit Sénanque Abbey

Stroll through Gordes' stone streets and visit the peaceful 12th-century Cistercian abbey, open 9:00am-6:00pm. Lavender usually blooms June to July.
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12:00pm

Coffee break at Bastide de Gordes

Pause for refreshments at this hotel café that offers outstanding views over the Luberon valley.
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12:45pm

Drive to Bonnieux

Enjoy a short 30-minute drive to the picturesque village of Bonnieux.
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1:15pm

Lunch at Le Fournil, Bonnieux

Sample local Provencal dishes and wines in a welcoming village restaurant with outdoor seating.
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2:30pm

Explore Bonnieux village

Wander through medieval streets, visit the historic church and enjoy panoramic views.
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4:00pm

Return drive to Verdon Gorge area

Drive approximately 2 hours northwards to the area near Verdon Gorge for overnight stay.
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7:00pm

Dinner at local restaurant near Verdon Gorge

Enjoy traditional regional cuisine and relax after a day of exploration.
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Day 5: Verdon Gorge & Return to Nice

Verdon Gorge, Lake of Sainte-Croix to Nice, France on June 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel near Verdon Gorge

Start your day with a hearty breakfast to prepare for hiking or sightseeing.
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9:00am

Visit Verdon Gorge viewpoints and trails

Explore breathtaking viewpoints and light hikes in one of Europe's most spectacular river canyons; early morning is ideal to avoid heat.
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11:30am

Lake of Sainte-Croix

Enjoy a relaxing walk or paddleboat rental on the turquoise lake waters, open all day.
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12:45pm

Lunch at Le Galoubet, Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon

Taste regional specialties and savour Provencal flavours in a lakeside setting.
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2:15pm

Drive back to Nice

Enjoy the scenic 2.5 hour drive back to Nice to conclude your road trip.
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5:00pm

Arrive back in Nice

End your trip with an optional evening walk along the Promenade des Anglais or dinner in the city.
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