Start this journey in resplendent Nice with its famous beach and boardwalk. Wander through the old town, visit museums showcasing Matisse and Chagall, and tour the site of an ancient castle with commanding views of the Mediterranean. Daytrips include the tropical hilltown of Èze, the gardens and estate of Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and Picasso's museum in Antibes.

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5 nights

En route to St-Rémy de Provence, stop in Vence or St-Paul-de-Vence. Then carry on towards Provence, stopping in St. Maximin le Ste. Baume (they have the head of Mary Magdalene as their relic). Arrive at your hotel near St-Rémy by late afternoon. Over the next few days, you will explore Les Baux de Provence (a stunning rocky landscape), Arles (with its Roman arena), Aix en Province (known for its many fountains) and the Camargue (a nature preserve where flamingos by the thousand can be found).

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4 nights

Stop en route at the famous market in St-Rémy before continuing on to the walled city of Avignon. Lots to see and do here, too (think about the famous bridge, as well as the Palais des Papes), but there are also lots of outstanding daytrips with Avignon as your home base. See an ancient Roman theatre in Orange, visit one of the best-preserved Roman bridges (Pont du Gard), discover the hilltown of Gordes (with the nearby prehistoric Village des Bories), explore the remote Abbaye de Sénanque and take a hike in the red ochre hills of Roussillon.

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6 nights

On this last day in France, drop off the rental car near the train station in Avignon and then catch the TGV to the Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, where you will make your way home.