France Travel Guides - Explore with Ersilia

Aix-en-Provence (left and center photos) Left photo: A sunny street market scene in front of the ornate clock tower at Place de l'Hôtel de Ville, with flower and produce stalls bustling under white canopies. Center photo: A cozy, artisanal boutique with wicker baskets, dried lavender, and a charming mini delivery truck, emphasizing local craftsmanship and Provençal charm. Avignon (right photo) Right photo: The imposing facade of the Palais des Papes under a moody sky, with scattered tourists in the vast cobblestone square, evoking a strong sense of medieval history and grandeur.

Aix-en-Provence vs Avignon: Which Provençal Town is Right for Your Provence Trip?

Trying to choose between Aix-en-Provence and Avignon? This honest guide compares them both with insider tips to help you plan the perfect Provence trip.

Aix-en-Provence vs Avignon: Which Provençal Town is Right for Your Provence Trip? Read More »

View of the historic Pont Saint-Bénézet, also known as the Pont d’Avignon, leading toward the fortified walls and towers of the Palais des Papes in Avignon, France. Visitors stroll along the stone bridge, with the golden statue of the Virgin Mary visible atop the cathedral in the background.

One Day in Avignon, an itinerary to experience it all

Planning one day in Avignon, France? Discover the best itinerary for first timers, with top attractions, hidden gems, local tips, and Provençal flavors — all in one unforgettable day.

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A traveler takes a photo of Marseille’s Old Port with a smartphone, capturing boats in the harbor and the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica on the hill. Perfect moment to highlight why using the best apps for your French travel can help you find scenic spots like this and document your journey effortlessly.

Essential Apps for Your Trip to France (from a stranger who moved here)

Planning a trip to France? Download these must-have apps to navigate like a local, find the best restaurants, book trains, and make your French vacation stress-free!

Essential Apps for Your Trip to France (from a stranger who moved here) Read More »

Four Roman Sites in Provence That Will Actually Change How You See History (and how to see them in a day)

Explore four roman sites in Provence with a day at Glanum, Pont du Gard, Orange’s ancient theatre, and the ruins of Vaison-la-Romaine. Real travel tips from someone who’s been there.

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Charming outdoor restaurant in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence with neatly set tables under large umbrellas in a courtyard surrounded by ivy-covered stone walls and tall windows. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, perfect for a relaxed al fresco dining experience in a historic Provençal setting.

Where to Stay in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: Best Hotels for That Dreamy Provençal Vibe

Discover the best places to stay in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence! From luxury châteaux to boutique gems, find your perfect Provençal hotel with gardens, pools, and authentic charm.

Where to Stay in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: Best Hotels for That Dreamy Provençal Vibe Read More »

Charming yellow building with white shutters and flower boxes above Le Beau Bar in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Locals and visitors gather under the blue storefront on a sunny day, adding to the relaxed, romantic vibe that makes it one of the best places in Provence for a honeymoon.

What to Do in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence for First Timers

Discover the best things to do in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence! From Van Gogh’s asylum to Roman ruins, vibrant markets, and Michelin dining — your complete guide to this enchanting Provençal town.

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A vintage Citroën 2CV parked near a rustic stone house in Saignon village, with a man dining under a woven sunshade at a wooden patio—illustrating the timeless appeal of this hidden gem in Provence.

Saignon: The Ultimate Hidden Gem Village in Provence You Need to Discover

Discover Saignon, a true hidden gem village in Provence that offers authentic charm without the crowds. This complete guide covers what to see, where to eat, and why this secret spot deserves a place on your Provence itinerary.

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Charming storefront in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence displaying colorful ceramic bowls, pottery, and woven baskets outside a rustic stone building with large glass-paned doors. A mix of handmade goods, textiles, and home decor is visible inside the boutique, with dried vines and vintage ironwork adding character to the exterior.

Best Places to Visit in Provence: A Local’s Guide to Must-See Destinations and Hidden Gems

Discover the most enchanting villages, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic experiences in Provence through the eyes of a local. From lavender fields to medieval towns, this comprehensive guide reveals the perfect mix of iconic destinations and secret spots for your once-in-a-lifetime French adventure.

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Quaint street in a Provence village, lined with pastel shutters, flowering potted plants, and ivy-covered stone facades—an idyllic stop on a day trip from Aix en Provence and one of the best villages to see in Provence for authentic charm and quiet beauty.

5 Provence Villages in One Day: The Perfect Day Trip from Aix-en-Provence

Discover how to visit 5 of Provence’s most beautiful villages—Saignon, Roussillon, Gordes, Ménerbes, and Lacoste—in a single unforgettable day trip from Aix-en-Provence by car.

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A panoramic view of the warm-toned, ochre-washed village of Roussillon in Provence, nestled among green trees with blue skies and soft clouds above.

Roussillon: Exploring Provence’s Enchanting Red Village [Complete Guide]

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Roussillon, Provence’s iconic red village. This complete guide covers when to visit, what to see, hiking the famous Ochre Trail, and insider tips for experiencing the “Colorado of Provence.

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7-Day Itinerary in the French Basque Country Without a Car

Discover the authentic French Basque Country on this 7-day car-free itinerary. Explore charming towns from Bayonne to Navarrenx using trains, buses, and bicycles while experiencing local culture, coastal views, mountain villages, and regional cuisine at a relaxed, sustainable pace.

7-Day Itinerary in the French Basque Country Without a Car Read More »

Stress-free France itineraries and local tips from a local expat, for travelers who don’t speak French

— plus Europe guides when your journey goes beyond France.