Why Visit Marseille? Because Marseille is unlike any other city in France or the world, and with a history spanning over 2600 years, there is no shortage of things to discover. On the shores of the Mediterranean, you get the best of the city and beach in one place. In Marseille, you feel simultaneously on both sides of the Mediterranean Sea, thanks to the large North African population. The capital of Provence still has the Provençal clichés of pastis, pétanque, and colourful facades. At the same time, the city is invigorated by street art, food from across the globe, and an epic coastline.

Provence also has many fabulous garden départments, from the Haute Alpes to the Alpes Maritimes and the Côte d’Azur. Many gardens are open to the public, while others are privately owned and are only open for limited times or by invitation. Explore our visitor guide to the gardens of Provence by department within the region.

The Var is a large geographical and administrative department in Provence. It includes varied terrain, ranging from seaside towns to the Îles d’Hyères Archipelago (including Porquerolles) and France’s Grand Canyon, the Gorges de Verdon. From the Mediterranean to the foothills of the Southern Alps, this region offers a wealth of discoveries, including swathes of untouched nature, charming villages, and excellent wine-tasting opportunities. These towns are among many reasons to visit and discover the Dracenie Provence Verdon.

On a Sunday morning in L’Isle sur la Sorgue, the market winds through the old town and along the quay (river walk). There are only a few Sunday markets in the region, and this one is the largest, attracting locals and visitors. Like Apt’s Saturday market, the line between retail and market is blurred as many boutiques add their wares to the temptation. However, L’Isle sur la Sorgue approaches the scale of a Parisian marketplace with t some 300+ antique and bric-a-brac stores within the townsite. It’s worth visiting this market but go early.