Provence (110)Discover the hometowns of Cezanne and Van Gogh. Then wander through gorgeous fields of lavender and sample the local delicacy known to gourmands the world over as "Black Diamonds."
From quaint villages to magnificence on the Mediterranean, host Rudy Maxa takes you to the sunshine capital of France — Provence. Many know this region of France because of its world famous film festival held annually in Cannes.
Maxa finishes up the tour by taking you off the beaten path to uncover the region's lesser-known treasures.
Provence Transportation and Navigation
Autoeurope
www.autoeurope.com
Renting a car is a great way to see the south of France. This American-based company offers competitive rates on rentals as well as chauffeur and transfer services
High Speed Trains
www.tgv.com
France's TGV can speed you from Paris to Provence in under three hours, and is a great way to see the countryside while relaxing.
French road signs
www.geocities.com
If you plan to drive, brush up on your road signs -- some are confusing, some amusing, but all are important to know before you get behind the wheel.
French 101
http://translation.langenberg.com
It's best to know a little of the language before you depart, and this site will help you make a list of handy phrases for your itinerary and interests.
Provence Attractions
Van Gogh Museum
Tel: 33 04 90 92 34 72
www.provencetourism.com
Known as the "Centre d'art Presence Van Gogh," this museum houses some of his more stunning local works.
Glanum - Roman ruins
www.provencebeyond.com
Just South of St. Remy, explore some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in all of France.
Saint-Remy
www.avignon-et-provence.com
Home to Van Gogh and birthplace of Nostradamus, this town is alive with history.
Guided walking tours of Van Gogh's subjects are a particular favorite among visitors.
Arles
www.arles.cci.fr
Ancient abbeys, museums and Roman ruins are some of the highlights of this region's second largest city. The ancient coliseum is still in use today.
Avignon Passport
www.ot-avignon.fr
Avignon welcomes visitors by giving away a coupon book called the Avignon Passport, which entitles the bearer to discounts of 20 to 50 percent off local attractions.
Map of Lavender Fields
www.provencebeyond.com
If visiting in the summer months, you may want to bike, hike or drive through some of the region's lavender fields.
Roussillon
www.avignon-et-provence.com
It's the quintessential French countryside at its best, with red walls and ochre hills that are a marvel to behold.
Pont Julien
www.provence-beyond.com
Located outside of Bonnieux, this Roman-era bridge once used by armies on the march is still in use today.
Markets of Provence
www.provence.worldweb.com
Provence has a wealth of outdoor markets, some held daily and others weekly. Don't miss a chance to shop like a local.
Cezanne's Workshop
www.atelier-cezanne.com
See how one of the world's greatest impressionist artists worked and lived -- and the town of Aix En Provence, whose color, light and vibrancy inspired many of Cezanne's works.
Calanques-Cassis Boat Tours
http://calanques-cassis.com
In the seaside town of Cassis, spend the afternoon boating and get a view of the calanques, which are fiord-like bays surrounded by white cliffs.
Provence Dining and Local Specialties
Chez Bru
Price range: More than US $40
Tel: 04 90 90 60 34
Located in the town of Eygalieries, Chez Bru is one of the most elegant and pricey restaurants in the region.
Truffles
www.rabasse.com
Eighty percent of France's black truffles come from Provence. Learn all about these expensive delicacies before you leave.
La Maison Jaune
Set meals: 52 Euros – Gourmet; Provencal -- 44 Euros (four dishes, cheese and dessert)
Tél : 04 90 92 56 14
www.saintremy-de-provence.com
Another of the region's finest restaurants, this country inn sits quietly atop a hill in St. Remy and is known by gourmets for its excellent cuisine.
Le Cafe Van Gogh
Cover charge: between US $5.10-$14.50
Tel: 04-90-49-55-99
www.frommers.com
Made famous by Van Gogh's painting, "Le Café De La Nuit," this cafe still serves food and drinks and is known as an excellent place for "people watching."
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