Weekend in Provence: ideas and itineraries for 2025

Weekend in Provence: ideas and itineraries for 2025 for a getaway between sea, perfumes and Pre-Alps.

Looking for what to do and where to go for 2 to 3 days in Provence without wasting time? Here are ready-made itineraries starting from Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, on the legendary Route Napoléon, with practical advice, the best times for 2025 and a charming address to sleep, enjoy and easily explore the region.

In short

• Ideal base: Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, between Grasse and the Pre-Alps, to avoid the crowds on the coast while remaining 45–60 minutes from Nice and Cannes.

• 48h/72h itineraries: perfumes in Grasse, hilltop villages (Gourdon, Saint-Paul-de-Vence), Loup gorges, sea (Antibes/Cannes) or hikes in the Parc des Préalpes d'Azur.

• Best time in 2025: spring and autumn for mild weather; lavender late June–July if you are aiming for fields in bloom.

• All-in-one accommodation: charming hotel with bistronomy, wood-fired pizzeria and terraces, perfect for disconnecting after your sightseeing.

• Access and mobility: car recommended; allow 20–60 min journeys depending on stages and traffic.

Why choose Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey as a base camp?

Nestled between the sea and the mountains, Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey offers a strategic starting point: open roads, immediate access to nature, and iconic villages less than an hour away. Enjoy panoramic views of the Prealps and the proximity of Grasse, the world capital of perfume.

In the heart of the village, the authentic charm of the Relais Impérial makes your stay easy: simply unpack your bags, and everything is within easy reach for a day trip. After your excursions, return for dinner on the terrace and a peaceful night's sleep, far from the hustle and bustle of the French Riviera.

Local tip: in high season, start your sightseeing early and save the late afternoon for the hilltop villages, which are quieter and stunning at sunset.

2025 Itineraries: 48h and 72h around Grasse and the Pre-Alps

48 hours “Scents, hilltop villages and gorges”

Day 1 – Grasse and panoramic views - Morning: Immerse yourself in the history of fragrance at the International Perfume Museum . Book a discovery workshop to create your own eau de toilette (limited places, especially in summer). - Midday: Stroll through the squares of Grasse, enjoy a coffee break and views of the Mediterranean. - Afternoon: Head to the Gorges du Loup for a refreshing walk along the river; stop for photos at the waterfalls and relax by the water. - Evening: Return to Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, enjoy a bistro-style dinner or wood-fired pizzas, and a restful night thanks to the on-site amenities .

The perfume-making expertise of Grasse has been listed as part of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity since 2018 — an international recognition to be discovered on the UNESCO website .

Day 2 – Hilltop Villages and Art - Morning: Drive to Gourdon, one of the most beautiful villages in France, perched on its rocky spur. Enjoy panoramic views swept by the breeze, explore artisan-filled alleyways, and discover the starting point of the Chemin du Paradis (Path of Paradise) for the more athletic. - Lunch: Enjoy a convivial meal on a terrace, then visit Saint-Paul-de-Vence in the afternoon to admire its galleries and sun-drenched ramparts. - End of the day: Take a leisurely drive back up the Route Napoléon to savor the landscapes of the hinterland as the sun sets.

72 hours “Sea or mountain as a bonus”

Day 3 – Option A (Sea): Antibes or Cannes - Morning: Old town of Antibes, cobblestones, Provençal market and walk along the ramparts. - Lunch: Picnic at Cap d'Antibes, swimming as soon as the weather is nice. - Evening: Return to the peaceful town of Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey for dinner indoors or on a terrace, depending on the season.

Day 3 – Option B (Gentle Mountain): Prealps of the French Riviera - Morning: walk on the Caussols plateau (magnificent light, lunar karst landscape), or botanical trail around Saint-Vallier. Find maps and nature information on the website of the Prealps of the French Riviera Regional Natural Park . - Midday/afternoon: break in a charming village (Bar-sur-Loup, Valbonne), local crafts and treats.

Day 3 – Option C (Lavender, depending on the season) - Late June–July: set off to admire the fields of the Valensole plateau (round trip in one day if you start early). Combine with a stop in the Verdon Gorge for a truly magnificent experience.

Themed experiences to enhance your stay

Quiet outdoor activities (hiking and water sources)

• Gorges du Loup: shaded walk, pools and waterfalls; caution depending on the weather.

• Caussols Plateau: wide open spaces and vast sky, ideal for picnics.

• Gourdon viewpoints: sea/mountain panoramas, memorable sunsets.

Romance and slow travel

• Perfume workshop for two in Grasse, followed by a candlelit dinner.

• Sunset in Gourdon or on the ramparts of Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

• Night in a room with a view: discover rooms with a terrace or bathtub.

Family (sweetness and discoveries)

• Perfume Museum and gardens: a fun trail and olfactory pairings.

• Easy walks around the village, artisanal ice cream and weekend markets.

• Wood-fired pizza evenings: relaxed atmosphere and generous portions.

Local cuisine

• Cheeses and honey from the Pre-Alps, wines from the azure hills, olive oils from the hinterland.

• Market lunches + panoramic picnics; bistronomic dinners in the evening.

• On site: two additional tables at the Relais Impérial to vary the pleasures.

When to go in 2025: seasons, flowers and atmosphere

• Spring (April–June): mild temperatures, flowers in bloom, ideal for hiking and villages.

• Summer (July–August): lavender in bloom late June–July; favor the early morning, and the shade of the gorges in the afternoon.

• Autumn (September–October): golden light, sea still warm on the coast, grape harvest and village festivals.

• Winter: clear skies, few crowds, perfect for museums, walks and gourmet dining.

Planning tip: take advantage of the long weekends in 2025 to target spring and autumn, which are milder and less crowded than the heart of summer.

Practical tips for a successful weekend

• Access: Nice Côte d'Azur is the nearest airport; allow 50–60 minutes by car to Saint-Vallier depending on traffic. Having a car makes connecting routes much easier.

• Traffic/parking: leave early for popular sites; prefer parking lots on the edge of the village and walk the last few meters.

• Reservations: Museums/perfume workshops and fine restaurants should be booked in advance during peak season. For accommodation, remember to book your stay as soon as your dates are set.

• Children and seniors: choose short trails (≤ 2 h) with little elevation gain; bring water, hats and closed shoes.

• Weather: the region is sunny, but summer thunderstorms do occur; adapt your program with a museum/workshop option as a plan B.

Where to sleep and eat well: Le Relais Impérial

A charming address on the Route Napoléon, Le Relais Impérial combines authenticity, tranquility, and hospitality. Its 28 rooms, divided into 5 categories, are suitable for couples, families, and business travelers. Some feature a terrace with views of the hills or a bathtub for a relaxing soak. Explore the options on the Rooms page .

On the dining front, you have the choice between a bistro-style restaurant celebrating local produce and a friendly wood-fired pizzeria. Inviting terraces are available year-round, and attentive service and amenities are designed for a seamless stay.

Are you organizing a birthday party, a seminar, or an intimate ceremony? Le Relais offers adaptable spaces and personalized support: discover our event services . To understand the spirit of the place, read the story of the family who welcome their guests with passion.

FAQ

What itinerary is best for a short weekend getaway without rushing around?

Aim for a compact itinerary: Day 1 Grasse (museum, perfume workshop, old town) + late afternoon in the Gorges du Loup for some respite from the heat. Day 2 hilltop villages (Gourdon in the morning, Saint-Paul-de-Vence in the afternoon), then return via the Route Napoléon for panoramic views. If you'd like to see the sea, replace Saint-Paul-de-Vence with Antibes. Tip: leave early, have a light lunch on a terrace, and save the sunsets for the viewpoints.

Where to see lavender during a weekend based near Grasse?

The high plateaus (Valensole, Albion) are accessible in a day from Saint-Vallier if you set off early. Flowering generally occurs between late June and July, though this varies depending on the weather and altitude. To minimize travel time, choose a specific area and plan 2 to 3 photo stops, then return via a lake or the Verdon Gorge to cool off in the afternoon. Avoid the brightest hours of midday for photography.

What should I do if it rains?

Enjoy the indoor museums and workshops: the world of perfume in Grasse (exhibitions, olfactory creations), art galleries in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, and gourmet breaks at local artisans' shops. The villages are perfect for strolling, even under a capricious sky. Book your visits for the morning and save time for a leisurely lunch at a bistro. At the end of the day, relax at your hotel with a hot bath and dinner to transform the weather into a cozy haven.

Is it possible to visit without a car?

It's possible, but less flexible. Buses connect Grasse to the main villages, and trains run to Cannes/Antibes. Allow time for connections and focus on one route per day (either the coast OR the hinterland). To make the most of your trip, order a local taxi for the "last few kilometers" between your stop and the viewpoint. For groups or families, a rental car for 24–48 hours may be the most economical and comfortable option.

Are there hikes suitable for children?

Yes: a walk along the Loup River (flat and shaded sections), short loops around Saint-Vallier, and an easy out-and-back to the Gourdon viewpoint. Avoid the hottest hours, bring water, snacks, a hat, and closed-toe shoes. Check trail conditions (rain, wind) and adjust the duration to your energy level. Aim for a 1–2 hour walk with breaks to keep things enjoyable.

Key points to remember

• Base yourself in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey to explore the surrounding area, including perfumes, villages and nature.

• Create your own program: 48 hours (Grasse, gorges, villages) or 72 hours with sea or Pre-Alps.

• Spring/autumn: best conditions; in summer, aim for early morning and late afternoon.

• Book museums, restaurants and accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.

• For a smooth stay: two restaurants, terraces and charming rooms at the Relais Impérial.

Ready to take action? Discover the house and its advantages on the Relais Impérial website and finalize your visit via the Contact page .