The Luberon Valley, composed of three impressive mountain ranges, is one of the most visually and culturally inspiring areas of Provence.
Medieval small towns rise from the mountains, splashing the hills with pastel colors. To see as many villages as possible—and be able to explore lavender fields, gorges, and more—it is necessary to arrive by car.
Renting a car allows you the freedom to go at your own pace and not have to arrange a driver for multiple days. However, hiring a transfer service will make your trip more comfortable and less stressful.
You can easily access the Luberon Valley from other points in Provence and southern France. The drive from Aix-en-Provence and Avignon is only an hour.
Given its mountainous topography and status as protected natural land, there are no airports or train stations within the valley itself. Those wishing to fly or take a train must go to nearby cities like Avignon and Marseille and then arrange to travel by car.
Join this 11-day trip through southern France, which touches some gems of the Luberon Valley like Rousillon and the Verdon Gorge. You can also cycle and wine taste your way through upper Provence on this 7-day tour.
By Car
Duration: 1-7 hours
As you will need a car to explore the Luberon Valley, we recommend you skip the middle man (or plane and train in this case) and take a road trip.
Avignon and Aix-en-Provence are the most popular starting points for a trip through the valley, as they are only an hour away. Add 20 minutes if you depart from Marseille, and an additional 40 if leaving from Montpellier. The trip is around 2:40 hours from Nice and Lyon.
The journey from Paris is about 7 hours, but you will be able to see a spectrum of landscapes and even make a stop in Lyon.
Once in the valley, you can drive through the mountains into picturesque towns like Gordes, Bonnieux, and Lacoste.
By Private Transfer
Duration: 1-7 hours
Many travelers prefer to rely on private transfer services for their trip to the valley.
Companies offer routes from virtually anywhere in Provence and the French Riviera, with more options available from bigger cities.
However, it is also possible to hire a service from places like Toulouse, Lyon, and even Paris.
Private transfer is mostly used by day-trippers or groups that are spending the majority of their time in one village. Of course, it is entirely possible to explore several places in Luberon with this service, but you will have to arrange for each transfer with your chosen company.