Vaucluse sits at the northern edge of Provence and packs a lot into one department: Roman history, papal power, hilltop villages, vineyards, lavender fields, and some of the most striking landscapes in southern France. This is where you’ll find Avignon, with its Palais des Papes and famous summer festival, Orange with its Roman theatre and triumphal arch, and Vaison-la-Romaine, one of the best places in Provence to see ancient ruins without fighting Riviera crowds.

The Luberon gives Vaucluse much of its postcard appeal, with villages like Gordes, Roussillon, and Oppède perched high for defense rather than decoration. Beyond the pretty façades, this is also a region of working landscapes: vineyards, melon fields, truffle country, and lavender around Sault. Wine lovers should not skip Châteauneuf-du-Pape, while hikers and drivers get dramatic views around Mont Ventoux, the Dentelles de Montmirail, and the Gorges de la Nesque.

Vaucluse also rewards slower travel. Stop in smaller towns like Carpentras for markets and layered history, or Fontaine-de-Vaucluse to see the Sorgue emerge from its deep spring.

👉 Local Tip: If you want the big Vaucluse landscapes without the worst crowds, drive the Gorges de la Nesque early or late in the day, then pair it with a village stop or wine tasting instead of rushing through the whole department in one loop.