She Wanders Abroad

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12 Best Day Trips from Paris You Can’t Miss

View of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France

Paris is not only one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, but it’s also a great base for discovering France and some of the neighbouring countries as well. If you’re planning to visit Paris and you have a few extra days, consider yourself lucky, as you can find many amazing sights around the city. If you need some ideas, here’s a list about the best day trips from Paris!

Disclosure: *This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*

Best day trips from Paris

1. Palace of Versailles

Palace of Versailles, France

Recommended by Maartje from The Orange Backpack

As one of the most famous palaces around the world, the Palace of Versailles makes a great day trip from Paris. The palace can easily entertain you for days with its extended park grounds, smaller residences and beautiful gardens.

The Versailles palace as we know it today was constructed by Louis XIV, better known as the Sun King. After him the most important addition was the impressive opera house you should definitely see during your visit. It was home to the last French king and his wife Marie Antoinette who loved organizing extravagant parties and enjoy life to the fullest. We all know that didn’t end well for the couple during the French revolution.

Versailles is now one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites in France. The royal apartments are stunning, the famous Hall of Mirrors is a gem and the smaller residences in the park are a must as well. The park is home to some smaller palaces – the Grand and Petit Trianon – and to a Hamlet created for Marie Antoinette to play dress up as a shepherdess in a surreal idyllic village.

It’s only a 45-minute drive from the Paris city center to the palace, so joining an organized tour isn’t necessary if you have a rental car or Uber app. The nearest train station is Versailles Château Rive Gauche. Train tickets are cheap and the ride takes about an hour.

The palace is open from 9 am, except for Mondays. Note that some park highlights like the Trianon only open in the afternoon. Access to the gardens is free, but a ticket for the palace and the sights at the estate will cost you 20 EUR (23 USD) per person – or more if you book a ticket during specific events like the fountain shows.

2. Disneyland Paris

Paris Disneyland Park entrance

Recommended by Kriszti from She Wanders Abroad

Disneyland is one of the most popular day trips from Paris, for a good reason! Even if you’re an adult and you’re traveling without kids, you will enjoy spending your day at one of the parks in Disneyland.

There are actually two different parks located right next to each other: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. It’s possible to visit both parks in just one day if you only try some of the best rides, but you can also decide to visit only one. In this case I would recommend to choose Disneyland Park as it is bigger and more interesting than the other one.

Ticket prices vary based on the number of parks you want to visit and the selected dates. If you want to visit only one park, you can get a ticket between 59-82 EUR (70-105 USD), while visiting both parks will cost you between 79-109 EUR (94-130 USD). Try to visit during the week as tickets for weekdays are cheaper and the parks are a lot less crowded than on the weekends. If you have more time, you can also purchase a multi-day ticket and stay at one of the hotels at Disneyland.

The easiest option to visit Disneyland from Paris is to take the RER A train which departs from Gare de Lyon Paris and goes directly to Disneyland. The journey takes around 1 hour and since Disneyland is located in Zone 5, if you have a Navigo Pass or a day ticket for all the 5 zones, the fare is already included in your pass.

3. Château de Chantilly

Chateau de Chantilly, France

Recommended by Elisa from World in Paris

The town of Chantilly makes a great day trip from Paris. Chantilly is located 50 km north of the French capital and it is very easy to reach by direct train from Paris Gare du Nord (it is a 25-minute ride).

Chantilly is best known for the fairy-tale Château of Chantilly, one of the best castles near Paris. Unlike Château de Versailles or Château de Fontainebleau, Chantilly is not a royal castle but its setting is so picturesque and the surrounding gardens so beautiful that it makes a great alternative to the most famous castles.

The current building was commissioned in the 19th century by Henri d’Orleans, Duke of Daumale and grandson of King Louis-Philippe I, to replace a medieval construction which was totally destroyed during the French Revolution. Henri d’Orléans was the greatest art collector of his time and used his new home to showcase all his artworks to the point that Chantilly is today the second largest collection of antique paintings after the Louvre.

After visiting the castle take a stroll around the beautiful French-style gardens. The gardens were designed by André Le Notre, the same landscape designer of Versailles Gardens. The gardens include huge mirrors of waters, many fountains, and classical sculptures.

Château de Chantilly is open every day except Tuesday. The ticket costs 15.30 EUR (18 USD) and includes also the visit to the Great Stables.

4. Giverny

Recommended by Erica from Travels with Erica

Giverny is one of the most beautiful places in all of France. It was Claude Monet’s final home and he transformed the land into two stunning gardens. The Claude Monet Foundation turned the gardens into a tourist attraction and now they are the most popular (and basically only) thing to do in Giverny.

The gardens are only open from mid-March through November, so you’ll have to strategically plan your trip to Paris if you want to experience them. Admission is only 8 EUR (9.3 USD) if you purchase your ticket onsite at the ticket booth. You can also purchase your tickets online, but there is a 3 EUR (3.5 USD) processing fee on top of the base ticket price.

To get from Paris to Giverny, you simply need to take a 45-minute train ride. Trains to Giverny depart every hour from Saint-Lazare Paris train station. Once you arrive in Giverny, you have to take a short shuttle bus to the gardens. There is always a bus waiting at the train station, so you’ll have no problem finding it.

Monet’s gardens are becoming more and more popular, and they are more crowded now than they were in the past. That doesn’t take away from the experience though! But if you want to avoid the crowds as much as possible, make sure to be at the Giverny train station at 9:15am to get on the first shuttle to the gardens. 

Once you’re done touring Monet’s Gardens, consider taking the time to stroll through the village of Vernon. There are a few restaurants to grab lunch at, they’re delicious and a great way to relax before hopping on a train back to Paris. 

5. Rouen

Aerial view of Rouen, France

Recommended by Cazzy from Dream Big, Travel Far

Rouen is a beautiful French city located not far from Paris. It’s actually the capital of the northern French region of Normandy, and it’s such a unique place. There are many brilliant things to do in Rouen and the city perfectly blends modern architecture and old town charm to produce a place that’s oozing culture and beauty.

Rouen is located only 1 hour and 30 minutes from Paris via train, and there are around 28 trains per day, making it a perfect day trip from Paris! You could also drive, but that might take a little longer with the typical Paris traffic. 

When you arrive at Rouen you’ll have lots to see and do. Start by visiting the beautiful Gothic style cathedral which is free to enter and very beautiful. Then take a trip to the Gothic Church (Church Of Saint-Maclou) which again is free to enter. After that you should wander the cobbled streets and join a historic walking route throughout the old town. You’ll discover lots of charming buildings and historic areas, including the Church of St Joan of Arc.

Rouen is also home to well priced restaurants and beautiful flower gardens. One of the most popular is Jardin des Plantes de Rouen which even has a boating lake and features flowers and plants from all 5 continents.

6. Provins

Recommended by Stephen from Monk Bought Lunch

For travellers looking for a radical departure from the bustle of the big city in Paris, a day trip to the medieval city of Provins in the Ile de France region presents an opportunity to escape into the small winding lanes and imposing castle walls of a proper medieval town, and the city’s long history of medieval fairs won it UNESCO World Heritage status in 2001.

For many visitors, just strolling through the ancient city streets and into the surrounding countryside will be enough for a fulfilling visit – photographers in particular will be impressed by the almost-original fortifications, which were lightly restored after the Hundred’ Years War and the French Revolution but largely retain their authentic original structures.

Tourists looking for a bit more definition to their wandering might consider the Provins Pass (adult/child 12/8.5 EUR), a multi-site admission ticket that combines entrance fees for the four main historical attractions in town. The 12th century Cesar’s Tower offers panoramic views of the village, the Tithe Barn sets up audio-guided narration that attempts to evoke the everyday lives of the residents of medieval French towns, the Underground Galleries allows visitor a guided exploration of the quarry tunnels beneath the city that were utilized as storage and hideaways and much more, and the local Provins Museum presents local historical artifacts inside a converted medieval house.

Provins is in Zone 5 of the Transilien P train service from Paris’ Gare de l’Est – the trip takes approximately an hour and a half. Popular NAVIGO transport cards that include the Zone 5 tariff are eligible for travel to Provins, or a same-day round-trip individual ticket is available from 12 EUR (14 USD).

7. Compiegne

Recommended by Emma from Bonjour Sunset

Compiegne is a calm and charming city in the north of France, easily reachable for a day trip from Paris. You can take a train from Gare Du Nord in Paris and it takes only 45 minutes to reach Compiegne. Some of the best things to do in Compiegne are to visit the Chateau (the imperial palace), hike the many trails of the forest and visit the location where the French Armistice was signed for both World Wars.

The Chateau de Compiegne used to be the summer residence of French royalties, and one of the favorites of Napoléon. Nowadays, 3 museums can be visited within the Palace: The imperial apartments, the Museum of the Second Empire and the National Car Museum. Adjacent to the palace is a gorgeous 700 hectares park, crossed by the Beaux-Monts alley, a 5km uphill promenade leading to a spectacular view over the city. There are kilometers of well indicated trails through the forest, ideal for nature lovers.

Another interesting site to visit is the Clairiere de l’Armistice, a clearing in the forest with an historical train wagon. This is where in 1918 the French signed the Armistice, ending the 1st World War. The symbolic significance of the location wasn’t lost on Hitler, who chose the same location to impose his terms on the defeated France. The train carriage is now a memorial to both events.

Back in town, check the Hotel de Ville, the UNESCO World Heritage Saint Jacques Church, or spend some time in the very cute Jardin Des Remparts. The center of the city is quite small, so everything is doable on foot, but if you want to wander further the city’s public transports are free.

8. Strasbourg

Recommended by Mark from Wyld Family Travel

Strasbourg is the capital of the Alsace region of North Eastern France. If you’re looking for an amazing day trip from Paris, Strasbourg is a great choice as it can be easily reached in 2 hours from Paris on the TGV.

Strasbourg is a city with strong influences from both France and Germany, having belonged to both countries numerous times in history. Today most people head to Strasbourg to visit its old town cobbled streets, world-famous cathedral and picturesque La Petite France district.

A boat ride on the canals of Strasbourg will introduce you to the amazing wooden coloured old-world houses of Strasbourg. The Strasbourg Cathedral was once the tallest building in the world – make sure you climb the Cathedral tower for the best view of the city! During the Christmas period, Strasbourg plays host to one of the most famous and popular Christmas markets in Europe.

The food and wine is a must when visiting, make sure you try the regional special called Flammkuchen, it is an Alsace version of pizza and wash it down with a local Gewürztraminer wine. A day trip to Strasbourg with teens, couples or singles is a must!

9. Colmar

The traditional wooden houses by the river in Colmar, France

Recommended by Christine from Journey to France

Colmar is another popular destination in France’s Alsace region and it’s almost 500km from Paris. But with an efficient train system in France, it can easily be reached in less than 3 hours – that’s why this picturesque city is among the best and popular day trips from Paris! Located in North-Eastern France, on the border with Germany, this town is one of the fairytale towns in France. It’s also right in the heart of France’s Alsace region, known for its vineyards and fine wines.

One of the best things to do in Colmar is strolling along the cobbled streets of its charming old town and marvel at the half-timbered houses. The Old Town, in particular, looks straight out of a movie set. With romantic little bridges or tree-lined streets, nearly every spot is picture-perfect. Colmar’s Old Town is an architectural goldmine, and these giant masterpieces greet you at every turn. Explore more and you’d find more medieval and early Renaissance structures all over town, such as the quirky Maison Pfister.

Walk along with the riverfront neighborhood of Little Venice, and enjoy the colorful fairytale-like scenery. Located near Quai de Poissoniers, this area is one of Colmar’s best attractions and dates back to the 14th century. With all the conflict, revolution, and wars that France has suffered, Little Venice remains unscathed. Make sure to also check out the impressive Gothic architecture of St. Martin’s Collegiate Church.

To get here from Paris, you can take a train to Strasbourg first. The train from Paris to Strasbourg takes only 2.5 hours and from Strasbourg to Colmar, you can take another train for only half an hour. You also have an option to take a bus but it will take an hour. The train fare might cost you between 80-90 EUR (94-105 USD) for a one-way fare. There are also several day tours that leave Paris to Alsace Region which includes Colmar and that might be an ideal alternative if you want to visit more places and it’s also cheaper.

10. Metz

Recommended by Martina & Jürgen from PlacesofJuma

The beautiful city of Metz is located in the Northeast of France, near the borders of Germany and Luxembourg. On a day trip from Paris you will have the chance to explore many lovely places in that town: picturesque gardens, a historic old town, the many delicious French restaurants and noble boutiques are just a few of the top highlights on any trip to Metz.

This charming town is settled directly on the marvelous Moselle River, where bridges connect to the island of Saulcy, a charming area with many buildings from the 18th century. On warm summer days, people love to stroll along the riverbanks, having a picnic or taking a romantic boat ride on the beautiful river.

The main attraction and an absolute must-visit is the Metz Cathedral – Saint-Étienne – one of the most beautiful and largest Gothic church buildings in France. Also interesting is the Opéra-Théatre de Metz Métropole (Opera House), which is one the oldest opera house in Europe. Another highlight is the Place Saint-Jacques, which is well known by locals and tourists for its many lovely cafés and restaurants whose terraces are popular in summer.

All in all, Metz is truly amazing and with lots of historic charm and plenty of wonderful attractions for sure one of the best villages to visit in the area around Paris.

11. Luxembourg

Recommended by Paulina from Paulina on the Road

If you are in Paris and wish to visit a place with remarkable and attractive sites along with rich culture and history, then Luxembourg is an ideal place. Luxembourg is located in Western Europe bordered by Germany, Belgium, and France. 

Paris from Luxembourg is a mere 2 hours 15 minutes journey through a TGV train that covers approximately 288 kilometers from Paris. There are around 19-20 trains that run directly from Paris to Luxembourg every day. The earliest train of the day departs at 7:27 from Paris and the last train comes back at 20:40 from Luxembourg, which gives you a full day to explore the city.

Usually tickets for the journey can be booked for 12 months in advance but in case if the booking is not open yet, there is an option to set an alert so that you can receive a mail whenever the booking starts. The cheapest journey from Paris to Luxembourg can take place at 33 EUR (39 USD) if tickets are booked in advance. Tickets booked 30 days before the journey will cost around 100 EUR (117 USD) while booking done within 7 days will cost 61 EUR (71 USD).

A must visit place at Luxembourg is the Old Quarter which is a world heritage site recognized by UNESCO. One can admire the culture displayed at the National Museum History of Art that includes coins, historical documents, and weapons. Other things to do at Luxembourg include a visit at Bock Cliff known for fortifications and cannons, explore Berdorf and enjoy a spa at Mondor-les-Bains. The Bock Casements and Grand Ducal Palace are also must-watch landmarks with picturesque beauty.

12. London

Big Ben in London, UK

Recommended by Manpreet from Hello Manpreet

Since the opening of the Euro Tunnel, the trip from Paris to London has become one of the most popular and frequently used routes. The Eurostar has made this day out very easy and comfortable for all the family. Setting off from Paris Gare Du Nord, you will arrive at Kings Cross, in the heart of London in under 2hrs 20mins.

With 14 trains a day, it is best to get the first train just before 8am, arriving at 9am and heading back to Paris on the last train just after 9pm. Booking in advance is highly recommended to avail the best price for the journey, usually costing around 88 EUR (103 USD) each way.

After arriving to London, two places that are a must visit to get a feel of the history evident within the city are Buckingham Palace and Marble Arch, Oxford Street. Buckingham Palace is home of the most famous monarchy in the world, and conveniently located in the famous Hyde Park. Try to arrive at the palace by 10:45am, to get a glimpse of the famous changing of the guards ceremony. From Kings Cross, Buckingham Palace is easy to access via the underground, to either Hyde Park Corner or Green Park station.

Before indulging in a bit of retail therapy down the famous Oxford Street, start the walk at Marble Arch. Designed in 1827, used as a grand entrance for royal visits, this huge arch is a perfect instagrammable spot! Marble Arch, marks the start of Oxford Street and easy to access by walking through the park to its corner. Oxford Street is always bustling and buzzing, filled with locals and tourists, it is definitely a must visit for every trip to London.

Best day trips from Paris - Map

Final thoughts

I hope you liked this post about the best day trips from Paris and you will be able to visit some of them on your next trip. If you have any questions feel free to leave a comment below or send me an email, I always love helping you out! Do you know some other locations that would make a great day trip from Paris? Let me know in the comments!

xoxo, Kriszti

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Best Day Trips from Paris
Best Day Trips from Paris

Complete Guide to Visiting the Lavender Fields in Provence

Little hut in the beautiful lavender fields in Provence, France

Visiting the lavender fields in Provence was one of my biggest dreams ever since I saw the picture perfect purple rows of lavenders all over Instagram. I finally had the chance to visit in 2020 and let me tell you something: the lavender fields are even more beautiful in real life than on the pictures!

If you’re also dreaming of visiting Provence, you are in the right place! In this guide I gathered all the important information that you need to know before visiting the lavender fields in Provence including tips about where to stay, how to get there and where to find the most beautiful fields.

Disclosure: *This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*

Best time to visit the lavender fields in Provence

Let’s start with the most important thing: when is the best time to visit Provence to see the lavender fields? As the lavenders only bloom for a short period of time, your timing is really crucial as it can make or break your whole trip. 

The general rule of thumb is that the lavender fields usually bloom between mid-June and mid-July. Of course it can vary a bit based on the weather conditions so the timing of the full bloom can be slightly different every year. It’s best to do a little research before your trip just to be on the safe side, but generally the best time to visit the lavender fields in Provence is the last week of June or the first week of July.

Lavender fields in Provence

The school holidays in France usually start after the first week of July so if you’re planning to visit after, you will find more tourists in the area as the locals also like spending their summer vacation in Provence.

Although lavenders can technically bloom until August, most of the fields are being harvested in the middle of July so the farmers can extract the lavender oil. That being said, it’s still possible to find some lavender fields in August but bear in mind that the most beautiful ones will be already gone by this time.

Based on all this, we decided to visit in the first week of July (specifically from 1 July to 5 July) and it was the perfect timing. The lavender fields were already in full bloom and we could also find blooming sage fields and sunflower fields as well. It was also perfect weather-wise as it didn’t rain and every day was sunny and hot.

Sage field and lavender field in Provence
Lavender field next to a sage field

What is the weather like in Provence during the lavender season

Just like the other Mediterranean areas, Provence is usually hot and sunny in the summer with little to no rainfall. As the lavender season falls between mid-June and mid-July, be prepared for scorching hot days with an average temperature of 27-30ºC.

However, the mornings and evenings tend to be a lot colder, especially when the weather is windy. Therefore it’s important to pack a sweater or a light jacket as well – trust me, you’re gonna need it!

As there are practically no shades on the lavender fields, make sure to protect yourself from the sun during the day by wearing sunglasses and hats and applying sunscreen both on your face and body. It’s also important to have plenty of water with you to avoid dehydration.

Bee on a lavender in Provence

How to get to Provence

The closest airport to the lavender fields in Provence is located in Marseille so if you’re planning to arrive from another country, this is your best option. The most beautiful lavender fields are located around Valensole and it takes around 1 hour to get there from Marseille by car.

Another option is to fly to Nice, from there it takes around 2.5 hours to reach Valensole. Although it’s a longer ride, if you can find cheaper tickets to Nice it can still be a great option for you. Especially if you’re planning to visit the Cote d’Azur region as well anyways!

You can also visit Provence from Paris, but bear in mind that it’s gonna be a really long ride. It takes around 7.5 hours to reach Valensole by car without any stops. So in reality, it will be more than 8 hours and on top of that you will need to pay a lot for the toll fees as well.

Another option is to take the train from Paris but since there is no direct route, first you need to take the TGV to Aix-en-Provence and then change to another train to Manosque-Gréoux-les-Bains. The whole journey takes around 5 hours in total and it costs between 65-100 EUR (68-115 USD) per person. 

How to get around Provence

Having a car in Provence is a MUST (yes, with capital letters!). Seriously, there are basically no other options for getting around as there is no public transportation in the area. The fields and villages are quite far from each other, it takes anywhere between 10 minutes and 1 hour to get there by car depending on your location and where you want to go, so walking is not an option.

Lavender fields in Provence

Rental car

If you’re flying to France, you will need to rent a car at the airport to be able to get around. Unfortunately car rental is pretty expensive in France, for instance, it costs around 250-300 EUR to rent a small car at Marseille Airport for 5 days (of course prices can vary based on your preferences, this rate is based on my independent research at the time of writing and I can not guarantee this rate in any way). On top of that, you will need to pay for fuel and toll fees but luckily most of the roads are free to use in Provence.

On the bright side, parking is free almost everywhere and since the lavender fields are located near the roads, you can basically stop anywhere without paying for parking. That being said, if you’re planning to visit the nearby towns, always check the signs if there are any parking fees or not because it always depends on the location.

Bring your own car

If you live in one of the neighbouring countries, it might make sense to visit Provence with your own car to save some money. Of course it depends on your individual situation, so it’s worth doing a calculation before your trip whether it’s worth to take your own car or not. As an advantage, you don’t need to pay for flight tickets and car rental, but on the other hand it might be expensive to get there due to the tolls and you need to calculate with the time of driving as well.

Organized tours

It’s possible to visit the lavender fields with an organized tour as well but the options are very limited. I would still recommend having your own car but if you don’t drive, organized tours can be a great option for you.

Keep in mind that most tours depart from bigger cities like Avignon, Aix-en Provence or Nice so you will need to stay in one of this cities to be able to attend a tour. Below you can find some of the most recommended tours, they all have amazing ratings and they usually cost between 55-110 EUR (63-126 USD) per person depending on the activities and the duration.

Where to stay in Provence

Although you can find lavender fields basically all over Provence, the most beautiful (hence most popular) fields are located around Valensole so if you’re planning to visit Provence (especially for the first time), it’s worth staying in the nearby area. The three best options to stay in are Valensole, Manosque and Riez.

It’s important to keep in mind that Provence is really popular in the lavender season so you should book your accommodation way in advance to avoid higher prices or lack of places to stay in. It’s worth to take a look at your options at least 6 months in advance!

Valensole

Since the best fields are scattered around Valensole it would make sense to stay there but since it’s a really small town, I wouldn’t recommend it. First of all, there are very limited options to choose from when it comes to accommodation and on top of that, you will not find that many restaurants or things to do in the town either. The only advantage is that since it’s close to the fields, it only takes around 5-20 minutes to get there by car, depending on which field you’re planning to visit. You can check all the available accommodations in Valensole here!

Manosque

Manosque is one of the best places to stay in if you’re planning to visit the lavender fields in Provence. Since it’s one of the biggest towns in the area you will find many accommodation options for any budget and there are many great restaurants, cafes and supermarkets in Manosque as well. Not to mention that the town is super cute, you can also spend half a day wandering around the cobbled streets in the old town. We also stayed there and absolutely loved it!

The only disadvantage is that it’s a bit further away from the fields since it’s located 20 km west of Valensole (around 20-25 minutes by car). It means that you will need to drive around 20-40 minutes to reach the fields from Manosque which might seem a bit too much, but in reality it was not an issue for us. On the bright side, if you’re planning to visit other towns in Provence like Roussillon on Gordes (more about them later), Manosque is closer to them than Valensole!

You can check all the accommodations in Manosque here or if you don’t want to spend a lot of time with searching, just check out my recommendations below!

*Please note that the below mentioned rates are calculated for 2 people and they are based on my independent research at the time of writing. Therefore I can not guarantee this rate in any way.*

Hôtel Le Pré Saint Michel

MID-RANGE – Hôtel Le Pré Saint Michel

Set on the heights of Manosque, in the picturesque Haute Provence region, this country house features a garden with a terrace and a heated seasonal outdoor pool. Hôtel Le Pré Saint Michel offers classically elegant guest rooms, fully equipped with a flat-screen TV and a minibar.

Room rates start from 133 EUR (152 USD) per night – BOOK HERE!

L'Hôtel du Terreau Logis de France

BUDGET – L’Hôtel du Terreau Logis de France

Set in the heart of Manosque, L’Hôtel du Terreau Logis de France offers air-conditioned, non-smoking guest rooms featuring a TV with Canal+ channels. A free WiFi connection is available in the rooms.

Room rates start from 60 EUR (68 USD) per night – BOOK HERE!

Riez

Riez is another great option if you want to stay close to the lavender fields. It’s located 15 km east of Valensole (20 minutes by car) but since there are many lavender fields between the two cities, you don’t need to drive around that much. Keep in mind that Riez is also a little town just like Valensole, so you will not find so many hotels or restaurants there either. You can check all the accommodations in Riez here!

Where to find the best lavender fields in Provence

If you’ve been reading the previous sections of this post, you already know that the best lavender fields in Provence are located near Valensole. Basically you can find lavender fields everywhere, seriously, you can’t really drive for 5 minutes without spotting another lavender field.

The best roads to follow is D6 (Route de Manosque) which coming from Manosque to Riez and D8 (Route de Départementale) from Valensole to Puimoisson but you can also spot pretty lavender fields along D953 between Puimoisson and Riez. It’s completely free to visit the lavender fields so whenever you find one you like, just park by the road and enjoy the view!

Although all fields are beautiful, there are some lavender fields in particular that are incredibly picturesque. I will share my favourites below with their exact locations!

Lavender fields in Provence

Lavandes Angelevin

Coordinates on Google Maps: 43.822054 5.937107

The field called Lavandes Angelevin is one of the most popular ones in the area and it’s also famous for the heart-shaped tree on the hillside. It’s located 5 km from Valensole in the direction of Manosque along the D6 road. Since the rows of lavenders are located on a hill, it’s really picturesque – no wonder why it’s one of the most beloved locations for photographers.

Lavender fields in Provence with the heart shaped tree

There is a big parking lot on the other side of the road and the parking is free. Since it’s one of the most beautiful lavender fields be prepared for the crowds, especially during the day. However, since the field is huge there is plenty of room for everyone! There is a bigger space between the rows so it’s really easy to walk between the lavenders.

Best time to visit this field is at sunset, as the sun is setting right behind the hill and the trees. Sunrise is another great time for visiting, especially because you will have the field all to yourself! We visited this field three times during our stay, once for sunrise and twice for sunset – that’s how much we loved it!

Girl in a purple skirt standing in the lavender fields with a heart shaped tree in the background in Provence
Girl in a pink dress standing in the lavender fields in Provence at sunset

Bonus tip: You can also find a sunflower field right next to the lavender field so it’s worth taking some pictures there as well! Unfortunately there is a big gap between the lavenders and the sunflowers so it’s not that perfect, but I loved taking photos just with the sunflowers too.

Sunflower and lavender fields in Provence
Sunflower field in Provence
Girl in a pink skirt twirling between the sunflower and lavender fields in Provence

Tiny house in the valley

Coordinates on Google Maps: 43.893751 6.116192

This field is located 15 km from Valensole in the direction of Puimoisson, you just simply need to follow the D8 road until you reach the above coordinates. You will find a tiny house in the middle of the field but since it’s in a valley, you will barely see its top from the road. We almost missed it because of this so trust me, the house is there, even if you can barely see it!

The lavender field is huge and the tiny house is located almost in the middle so in order to get closer, you need to walk a lot between the flowers. This field is really different from Lavandes Angelevin as the rows are much closer to each other and the bushes are bigger, therefore it’s much harder to walk between the rows. Please be really careful where you step and don’t damage the lavenders!

Although you can visit this field basically any time of the day, I recommend going there for sunrise! It’s incredible to see how fast the colors are changing once the sun hits the lavenders, coming from blue to pink and then vibrant purple.

Little hut in the beautiful lavender fields in Provence, France

If you’re lucky, you can even spot hot air balloons on the sky! Usually the balloons depart from Riez but their routes are not always the same and they are not flying every day either. We arrived to the field around 6am and spotted the balloons around 7am. I didn’t want to believe my eyes first and when I noticed that they are flying in our direction I was jumping out of my skin!

Hot air balloons at the lavender fields in Provence
Hot air balloons at the lavender fields in Provence

Bonus tip: If you’re ready to leave this beautiful field, continue driving on the D6 road in the direction of Puimoisson. Right after the lavender field ends, you will find a sage field in its place. It’s really beautiful and the two fields are really close to each other so it’s perfect for taking some photos as well.

Sage field in Provence
Girl in a pink skirt standing in the middle of a sage field in Provence
Girl in a pink skirt standing between the lavender fields and sage fields in Provence

Stone house with mountains in the background

Coordinates on Google Maps: 43.851485 6.110340

You will find another stone house in the middle of this lavender field but it’s completely different than the previous one. The field is located 20 km from Valensole, along the D953 road between Puimoisson and Riez. If you’re coming from Valensole, you simply need to follow the D8 road (same direction as to the tiny house in the valley) then take a right turn to the D953 road and stop at the coordinates I gave you above.

If you’re an early bird, the best time to visit this field is at sunrise as the sun is rising behind the stone house and the mountains. The lavender rows are not so close to each other so it’s easy to walk between them and since this field is not so popular and quite far away from Valensole (let alone Manosque), chances are high that you will have it all to yourself!

Girl in a pink skirt standing in the lavender fields in Provence at sunrise
Girl in a white dress standing in the lavender fields in Provence

Tips for taking photos in the lavender fields

Even if you’re not a professional photographer, I’m sure you will feel the urge to take a million photos at the lavender fields. Trust me, nobody will blame you, it’s just so picture perfect! I will share you a few important tips below regarding taking photos in the lavender fields.

How to take photos on the lavender fields

As I mentioned before, you will find many lavender fields around Valensole and they are free to visit so whenever you find a field where you would like to take some photos, just park nearby and walk to the field. It’s quite easy to walk inside the fields because the lavenders are organized in rows and you can easily walk between them.

Please make sure not to damage the lavender while you’re in the field! Try to walk only between the rows and do not step on the lavender. The surface between the rows is rocky so forget about your high heels and only wear flats for your own safety.

I hope it goes without saying, but do no pick any lavenders from the field! If you want to have a bouquet of lavender as a prop for your photos, you can buy it in basically any shop near the fields or in the towns (it usually costs around 3 EUR).

Aerial view of the lavender fields in Provence, France

Everything you need to know about bees and spiders

Since you’re basically visiting a huge flower field, be prepared to share it with millions of bees! Yes, they are really everywhere but since they’re busy collecting pollens from the lavenders, they will not bother you (if you don’t bother them). So as a general rule of thumb, try to leave them alone and you will be fine.

However, accidents can still happen so if you’re allergic to bee sting make sure to have proper medication with you! Even if you’re not allergic, it’s best to be prepared. My boyfriend (who is not allergic to bee sting) also got stung by bees on his ankle one evening. First we thought it was a mosquito sting but in the next morning his ankles were already swollen and he could barely walk. Of course you can find many pharmacies in the area as well so if it happens to you and you don’t have any medication with you, go there immediately!

If you’re afraid of bees, the best thing you can do is to visit the lavender fields early in the morning or late in the evening when the bees are not active. You will still need to face a few spiders and other insects but since they are there during the day as well, it doesn’t make any difference.

Best time to take photos on the lavender fields

If you want to take some epic photos on the lavender fields, you need to be aware of your timing. It’s quite hard to shoot there during the day because the weather is usually really hot, the light is harsh, not to mention the million other tourist flocking to the fields. So what can you do? Wake up for sunrise!

I know it sounds mad to wake up at the crack of dawn on your vacation but believe me, it’s so worth it! You need to experience it at least once while you’re visiting the lavender fields in Provence. The sunrise is around 6am and I recommend being on the fields at least 15 minutes before that. The light is changing really quick and you don’t want to miss that! You will not only have the perfect lights but you will have the fields all to yourself (except a few other photographers) and the bees are still not active in the morning so that’s another big advantage!

Sunrise at the lavender fields in Provence

Another great time for shooting is sunset. The lighting is beautiful as well, but there will be a lot more other people on the fields so it’s not always easy to shoot. The sun is setting around 9.20pm and if you don’t want to miss the golden hour, you will need to be at the fields around 8pm.

Girl in a pink skirt standing in the lavender fields in Provence at sunset
Sunset at the lavender fields in Provence

Best camera equipment to take photos on the lavender fields

If you have a professional camera, definitely bring it to the lavender fields! But don’t worry, even if you don’t have a camera you will be able to take amazing pictures with your phone as well. Although I mainly use my camera for taking photos, I also took a few shots with my phone and they turned out amazing. Just look at these photos below, they were all taken on my iPhone XS and edited on the free Lightroom mobile app on my phone.

Lavender fields in Provence
Lavender fields in Provence

Back to the camera, if you have a normal everyday zoom lens, that will be perfect for the job. However, if you have a telephoto lens, definitely put it in your camera bag! We just purchased our Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 lens a few weeks before visiting the lavender fields in Provence and we ended up using it 90% of the time. Below you can see two of my favourite photos we shot with this lens! If you want to read more about what is in our camera bag, check out my detailed post about our travel photography gear.

Girl in a yellow skirt standing in the endless lavender fields in Provence

How to use a drone on the lavender fields

You can also use your drone on the lavender fields but there is only one little problem with that: bees don’t like drones and they will attack it the second you start flying. Of course they can’t really do any damage in your drone but on the other hand, the propellers can hurt the poor bees so please try to avoid that. The bees are not active early in the morning and late in the evening so if you want to fly your drone, this is the perfect time for that.

Aerial view of the lavender fields in Provence, France
Aerial view of the sage fields and lavender fields in Provence, France

Best places to visit in Provence other than the lavender fields

If you’re visiting Provence in the lavender season, you will probably spend most of your time in the fields. However, if you need a change of scenery, Provence has many more to offer! There are many cute towns and other natural wonders near the lavender fields so if you have some extra time, try to visit a few of them on your trip.

Roussillon

Roussillon is one of the cutest towns in the area. Although it’s quite far away from Valensole (it takes around 1.5 hours to get there by car), it’s well worth the detour! It’s full of pastel colored houses and cobble stoned streets, it totally feels like walking in a fairytale town. Roussillon is surrounded by a beautiful countryside and it’s also famous for the huge red cliffs and ochre quarries. 

Panoramic view from Roussillon, Provence
Girl in a yellow skirt twirling in front of the cute looking courthouse in Roussillon, Provence

Gordes

Gordes is another fairytale town close to Roussillon. Since it only takes 15 minutes to reach Gordes from Roussillon, it makes sense to visit both on the same day. If you don’t have time to properly explore Gordes, you can also just visit the ‘Town View Point Gordes‘ where you can have a panoramic view over the town and the surrounding area.

Girl in a yellow skirt sitting at a viewpoint, looking over the beautiful town of Gordes

Sénanque Abbey

If you have more time after visiting Roussillon and Gordes, you can also pay a visit to the Sénanque Abbey which is located 10 minutes from Gordes. The abbey is surrounded by lavender fields so it’s really picturesque and you can also go inside the abbey as well (a ticket costs 8 EUR per person for a guided tour and 9.5 EUR per person for a non-guided tour).

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is part of the Parc Naturel Régional du Verdon and it’s listed as one of the most beautiful village of France. The town is really charming and since it’s located only 35 minutes from Valensole by car, it’s absolutely worth visiting!

The charming town of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie in Provence

Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon

If you’re already visiting Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, it’s worth to take a detour on your way back to Valensole and drive by the gorgeous lake of St. Croix. You will find a cute little village called Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon nestled on a hillside on the shores, it looks so picturesque! There are many beaches on the shores so you can take a dip in the lake as well.

Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon

Gorges du Verdon

Gorges du Verdon is the deepest gorge in France and it’s an amazing place to visit for outdoor lovers. You can swim in the crystal clear waters, rent a boat or a kayak or just enjoy a picnic on the shores.

Salin de Giraud

Did you know that you can find pink lakes in France? Yes, plural! Salins D’Auiges Mortes is the most famous one but it can only be visited by train and it’s usually very crowded. Thanks to Hanna from @solarpowerblonde we found out that there is another hidden pink lake in the area called Salin de Giraud. 

It takes more than 2 hours to reach it by car from Valensole so it’s quite far away but it’s so worth the time! Personally we visited it right after arriving to the airport in Marseille and went to Valensole after that.

The pink lakes are basically man-made salt pans and the pink color is caused by a certain type of algae. They are scattered around a huge area and I’ve heard stories from other people that they couldn’t visit the lakes because a security guard didn’t allow them to enter. We didn’t have any problems like this at the lake we visited, we just simply parked the car and walked 5-10 minutes to reach the lakes. These are the exact coordinates if you want to visit the same place: 43.400981 4.723459

Salin De Giraud, a beautiful pink lake in France
Girl in a white dress standing in a pink lake in France

Map of the places to visit in Provence

In the below map you can find all the best places to visit in Provence that was covered in this article. You can easily save it to your phone by clicking on the bracket in the upper right corner and the map will open up in your Google Maps app. Super convenient, right?

Final thoughts

Visiting the lavender fields in Provence is a real bucket list experience. I hope you will be able to see it with your own eyes at least once because it’s really magical! I also hope you liked this guide and it will help you planning your own trip.

If you have any questions feel free to leave a comment below or send me an email, I always love helping you out! Are you still dreaming about visiting the lavender fields in Provence or have you already been there? Let me know in the comments!

xoxo, Kriszti

What camera gear do we use?

If you want to read more about what is in our camera bag, check out my detailed post about our travel photography gear!

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Complete Guide to Visiting the Lavender Fields in Provence, France
Complete Guide to Visiting the Lavender Fields in Provence, France

45 Gorgeous Photos to Inspire You to Visit Santorini

View from the Oia Castle in Santorini

Whitewashed cliff-side towns, deep blue roofs, pink bougainvillea flowers and the endless view of the shimmering Aegean Sea – Santorini is really a dream destination that everyone needs to visit at least once in their lifetime! Santorini is insanely beautiful and photogenic, it’s almost impossible to take a bad photo there. Here’s my 45 favourite photos to inspire you to visit Santorini!

If you’re planning to visit Santorini for the first time, check out my ultimate Santorini travel guide which was specifically written for first time visitors. And if you want to see the most amazing sunsets on the island, head over to my best sunset spots in Santorini article where I collected all the best places with their exact locations!

Photos to inspire you to visit Santorini

Photos from Oia

View of the blue sea and a blue domed church in Oia, Santorini
The postcard perfect view with the white washed cliffside buildings in Oia, Santorini
Girl in a blue dress standing in front of the three domes in Oia, Santorini
Girl in a blue floral dress standing in front of a blue door with pink flowers in Oia, Santorini
View of the caldera at sunrise from Oia Castle in Santorini
Girl in a white dress standing in the Oia Castle, looking at the view of the caldera at sunrise
Girl in a white dress sitting in the Oia Castle, Santorini
Sunrise over the white-washed buildings in Oia, Santorini
Sunrise over the white-washed buildings in Oia, Santorini
Girl in a blue floral dress sitting on a stone pathway, watching the sunrise in Oia, Santorini
Sunrise over the white-washed buildings in Oia, Santorini
Sunset in Oia, Santorini
Girl in a blue floral dress walking down the stairs with a blue dome in front of her in Oia, Santorini
Girl in white dress standing on the stairs at the Kastro Oia Houses in Santorini
Girl in a white dress smelling the bougainvillea at Oia, Santorini
Sunset in Oia, Santorini
Girl in a white dress sitting in the entrance of a cave, watching the sunset in Oia, Santorini
Sunset in Oia, Santorini

Photos from Fira

Girl in a floral dress sitting on a wall, watching the sunrise over Fira, Santorini
Church of St. John in Fira, Santorini
View from the Franco's Bar in Fira, Santorini
Girl in a white dress watching the sunset at Franco's Bar in Fira, Santorini
Sunset in Fira, Santorini
Sunset in Fira, Santorini
The hiking roads from Fira to Oia in Santorini
Girl in a floral dress sitting on a wall in front of the church with the three bells in Fira, Santorini

Photos from Imerovigli

View in Imerovigli, Santorini
Girl in a floral dress standing in the streets of Imerovigli, Santorini
Girl in a floral dress sitting in front of a blue domed church in Imerovigli, Santorini
Blue domes in Oia, Santorini

Photos from Pyrgos

Cats sleeping on top of the souvenirs in Pyrgos, Greece
Cat sleeping on top of the souvenirs in Pyrgos, Greece
Souvernirs in Pyrgos, Santorini
Souvernirs in Pyrgos, Santorini
Cute little cafe in Pyrgos, Santorini
Girl in a blue floral dress standing in front of a church in Pyrgos, Santorini
View from Pyrgos, Santorini
Girl in a blue floral dress standing in front of a church in Pyrgos, Santorini

Photos from Akrotiri

Sunset at the Akrotiri Lighthouse in Santorini
Girl in a floral dress watching the sunset at the Akrotiri Lighthouse in Santorini
Sunset at the Akrotiri Lighthouse in Santorini

Final thoughts

I hoped you enjoyed seeing these photos from Santorini and I was able to inspire you to visit this amazing little island on your next trip. If you’re planning a trip to Greece, don’t forget to check out my other posts about the country, they are all linked below!

If you have any questions feel free to leave a comment below or send me an email, I always love helping you out! Have you already visited Santorini or is it still on your bucket list? Let me know in the comments!

xoxo, Kriszti

More posts about Greece

What camera gear do we use?

If you want to read more about what is in our camera bag, check out my detailed post about our travel photography gear!

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Santorini Photo Inspiration
Santorini Photo Inspiration

16 Insanely Beautiful Islands in Greece You Can’t Miss

Blue domes in Santorini, Greece

When thinking about the most beautiful island in Greece, Santorini is often the first one that comes to mind. Lucky for us, Greece has many more insanely gorgeous islands so if you’re looking for the perfect island vacation, you are in the right place! In this post you will find all the best Greek islands including tips about which one to choose, what to do, where to stay and how much time to spend there!

Disclosure: *This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*

Most beautiful islands in Greece

1. Santorini

Blue domes in Oia, Santorini, which is one of the most beautiful islands in Greece

Recommended by Kriszti from She Wanders Abroad

Whitewashed cliff-side towns, deep blue roofs, pink bougainvillea flowers and the endless view of the shimmering Aegean Sea – Santorini is really a dream destination that everyone needs to visit at least once in their lifetime!

Santorini is usually listed as one of the most beautiful islands in the world and while it’s true, thanks to its popularity it’s often overrun by tourists. The island is relatively small and compared to that, it receives around 2 million tourists each year. If you would like to avoid the crowds than you should visit in shoulder season. Late September is one of the best times to visit Santorini as the weather is still great, the pink bougainvillaea flowers are still in bloom but the prices are already lower and there are less tourists as well.

If you’re visiting Santorini for the first time, allow yourself at least 3-4 days to be able to properly explore the island. Oia is known as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and it’s also one of the most popular places to stay in Santorini. If you’re looking to find that postcard perfect view with the blue domes, you definitely need to put it on your list! You will find the best sunset spots in Santorini in Oia as well, so it’s certainly worth staying there at least one night. Fira is another great place to stay at, there are more options to choose from and it’s generally cheaper as well.

Santorini has its own airport so the easiest option to get there is to take a flight. There are also many established ferry routes connecting Santorini with the nearby islands and Athens so if you’re planning to do a little island hopping, taking the ferry is your best option. You will find many public buses on Santorini but it’s best to rent a car or an ATV to be able to get around the island. Apart from Oia and Fira, make sure to visit the cute town of Imerovigli and the black sandy beach in Perissa, and it’s also worth going on a boat tour to see the sunset.

2. Mykonos

View of Mykonos Town in Greece

Recommended by Kriszti from She Wanders Abroad

Mykonos is mostly know for its vibrant nightlife and great bars so it’s undoubtedly a perfect destination for traveling with friends or as a couple, but it can be a great place for a family vacation as well thanks to its laidback vibes. As most of the islands in Greece, Mykonos is also well connected to the other islands and Athens by ferry, but since it has its own airport it’s easily accessible by plane as well.

If you’re visiting Mykonos for the first time, it’s best to stay in Mykonos Town which is the liveliest part of the island. You will find the most instagrammable places in Mykonos there, along with many amazing cafes and restaurants. Windmills are one of the icons of the island, you can find 5 of them lining up next to each other near Little Venice in Mykonos Town. It’s also one of the most popular sunset spots in Mykonos so it’s worth to go there in the evening to see the breathtaking sunset colors.

There are many public buses running between Mykonos Town and the most popular beaches so it’s quite easy to get around the island. You can also rent a car or an ATV so you will be free to go around in your own pace. Spending 3-4 days in Mykonos is the perfect amount of time to see the highlights of the island but if you’re looking for a more relaxing holiday and planning to spend more time at the beaches, you can easily spend one week in Mykonos as well.

3. Naxos

Port in Naxos, Greece

Recommended by Gemma & Campbell from Highlands2Hammocks

Naxos is a paradise Greek island, the largest of the Cyclades archipelago, located in the heart of the Aegean sea. Naxos is underrated in comparison to its neighbouring islands, however, it is very easily accessed by the Blue star ferry that leaves from Piraeus on the mainland.

On arrival into Naxos, Portara will be very evident sitting out on the small peninsula, this is an unfinished temple dedicated to Apollo and is well worth a visit once you are settled in. The best way to get around is by hiring a quad bike or a scooter and there are many options for rental around the island.

If you want to stay in the hub of Naxos where there is a lot going on, the Agia Anna is perfect for this. There are plenty of grills, restaurants and things to do in the area. If you are looking for a quieter area that is still close to amenities, then Maragas Beach is a great area to stay at.

There are plenty of water-based activities on the island, which can be booked at Plaka watersports. Or how about trying scuba diving with Bluefin divers? Stroll down the narrow alleyways in the old town and explore the history on the island. Over at Aliko, there is an abandoned hotel with some incredible artwork to see.

One week is a good amount of time to make the most of your time on this beautiful Greek island. This will give you plenty of time to both see all of the sights around the island and also enjoy the beautiful beaches and the warm Aegean Sea.

4. Paros

Panoramic view of Parikia Town in Paros, Greece

Recommended by Carina & Derek from We Did It Our Way

When people travel to the Greek islands, it seems like everyone heads out to Mykonos, Ios, or Santorini. But there’s something magical about going off the beaten path, which is why Paros is one of the best islands to visit in Greece! 

Paros is a small island in the Aegean Sea. It’s known for its beaches, traditional villages and one of the oldest churches in the country. It’s also a great place to party the night away. Spending 3-4 days in Paros will allow you to explore the island’s beauty at a leisurely pace with enough time to chill on the beaches as well.

September is probably one of the best times to visit. The weather is still hot and the tourist crowds have already left Paros (and Greece). The prices will also be lower than in the high-season. Getting around the island is easy if you’re using public transportation – you have the bus and water taxis that hop around the beaches, attractions, and ports.

While on the island, there are a ton of different beaches where you can either chill or party. Take a stroll through Naoussa, a port village, with tons of amazing restaurants to choose from, cute shops and alleys to get lost in. Also, be sure to check out Lefkes, a traditional village on top of the hill, at the center of Paros. And make sure you end each day with a sunset. The show the sky puts on in Paros is one of the best we’ve seen in the world! A great spot to view one is right by Piperi beach. 

The best way to get to the island is by taking a ferry from Athens, Naxos, or Santorini, which are the closest ports. The ferry will drop you off in Parikia. If you’re looking to party, pick accommodations in Parikia, where you just landed with the ferry. If you want a more relaxing stay, we recommend the Naoussa area. Either way, you will find something for every budget. 

5. Antiparos

Church in Antiparos, Greece

Recommended by Paulina from Paulina On The Road

Tourists love visiting Antiparos only because it has everything you could ever ask for. The climate is calm, the ambiance is serene, and the accommodation is impeccable. This is a tiny island that is present in the heart of Cyclades, Greece, and tops the list of most beautiful Greek islands.

Antiparos is an island that is said to have one of the oldest caves of Europe. The cave has been a place of interest for archaeologists since the cave is made of stalagmite formations and the inscriptions present say a lot about the medieval times. The island also contains one of the oldest forts in the world which was built in 15th century by Venetian Giovanni Lorentano. The fort still has defensive walls that used to combat deadly attacks from their enemies.

The northern side of the island contains a beautiful beach known as the Siefneikos Gialos. This beach is an excellent place to spend some quality time with your family and enjoy the sunset views. There are two amazing restaurants on Antiparos that you definitely need to try: Sunset Deseo restaurant bar and Lollo’s pizzeria.

Although many people decide to stay in Paros and do only a day trip to Antiparos, you can easily spend a few days in this little island as well. Some of the best places to stay in Antiparos is Pavlos Place Hotel, Kouros Village, and Dolphin Antiparos.

6. Sifnos

Gialos Beach in Sifnos, Greece

Recommended by Derek & Mike from Robe Trotting

Any Greek itinerary should include island hopping to Sifnos. It’s a quaint and relaxing island with gorgeous white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. The island is known for gorgeous pottery and it’s a perfect island for couples that want just the right amount of nightlife and action.

Ferries drop visitors to Sifnos in Kamares, which is the site of a brilliant beach, beautiful hillside, restaurants and beach bars. There are several hotels in Kamares, but many are found in the largest city on the island, Apollonia. The city is in the hills and has winding streets of whitewashed buildings, trendy boutiques, restaurants and tavernas. It’s a great place to meet locals and travellers for a drink or tasty Greek food.

The island is full of beauty with other beaches to check out like Vathy Beach, a more remote soft-sand gem that is worth the effort to reach. Along to Vathy you will pass Chrisopigi Monastery, a gorgeous whitewashed monastery that sits right on the waterfront and is full of art and scenic beauty. Another site to behold is the 14th century citadel, Sifnos Castle. It’s mostly in ruins, but a fascinating stop on the island of Sifnos.

One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of Sifnos is with a sailing trip around the island. The winds off the coast of Sifnos make it one of the best sailing destinations in the Cyclades Islands and the views from the coastal waters are unbelievable. It’s also a great way to hop around to Vathy, Kamares and all the incredible beaches around Sifnos.

7. Milos

Mandrakia Village on Milos, Greece

Recommended by Dean & Laynni from Routinely Nomadic

Beautiful beaches, pretty villages and even some fascinating historic sites – Milos, in the Cyclades chain, certainly meets the standard Greek island trifecta. Of course, with over 70 different beaches, it is definitely on another level when it comes to sunbathing opportunities. From the long, sandy expanse of Fyriplaka to tiny, hidden Tsigrado to the blinding, white rock shelves of Sarakiniko, Milos has a little something for everyone.

While a week would be ideal, it is possible to check out all the main highlights in 3-4 days. The main port of Adamantas is a perfect base for close proximity to ferries and outstanding ocean-front seafood restaurant, while the hilltop village of Trypiti offers a quieter vibe and impressive views.

One of the big highlights of Milos is the colourful fishing village of Klima. Brightly painted and sporting tremendous sea views, Klima consists of a neat row of “syrmata”, water-front homes of local fishermen with living quarters above and boats and equipment below. Those who like a bit of history with their ocean scenery will enjoy the relatively intact ruins of a 4,000-year-old Roman theatre, not to mention learning that the world-famous Venus de Milo statue of the Greek goddess Aphrodite was created there, although it is now safely housed in Louvre.

The island is also lined with terrific hiking trails, although if you want to cover more ground and expend less energy, you can rent one of the ATVs that are a popular choice for getting around the island. Milos may not be the largest of the Cyclades but its impressive assortment of beaches, surprising history and the unique village of Klima make it a worthy addition to your next island-hopping adventure.

8. Folegandros

Recommended by Francesca from Little Lost Travel

Folegandros is a small Greek island that makes up part of the Cyclades alongside Santorini and Mykonos. Unlike the latter two, Folegandros is a little more off the beaten path but it’s no less beautiful. In fact, Conde Nast Traveller once called it ‘Greece’s best-kept secret’. 

Folegandros has a wildness about it. The capital settlement, Chora rests atop a towering jagged cliff, the terrain is rocky and the sea smashes against the shoreline. Depending on your travel style, two or three days should be enough time to see it all. There’s also a good variety of accommodation. Favourites include Camares, a budget-friendly villa complex with its own kitchenette and Anemomilos Boutique Hotel, a family-run hotel with a pool.

Folegandros is a top island for beach-hopping. Kartego and Livadaki are the most beautiful beaches but they require a bit of work to get to them. Rather than a hindrance, it makes them quieter and the effort all the more rewarding.

The island has a flourishing social life. Chora is completely pedestrian and you can wander through its narrow streets, stopping at tavernas for a bite and refreshments along the way. Pounta serves a delightful breakfast and lunch in the shade of their own garden. Another treat is Wine Bar Merkouri which offers excellent wine and snacks surrounded by vineyards.

As you explore Chora, make sure you head through to its old quarter, Kastro, that dates back to the medieval times. The squat white Cycladic-style buildings once made up a fortress that protected its inhabitants from marauding pirates. 

For the best view of Folegandros, walk up the winding track towards the Church of Panagia that overlooks the island. Head there for sunset for a chance to see stunning panoramic views of the island bathed in a golden glow.

9. Crete

Recommended by Ingrid from Ingrid Zen Moments

Crete is the biggest Greek island offering lots of opportunities for those looking to spend a vacation by the beach and those looking for adventures alike. Located only a few hours away by boat from the more popular Santorini, you’ll see that there are plenty of day trips on display. The only hard thing in Crete is managing to fit all the sights on a one week vacation. 

From the colorful authentic streets of Rethymno to the deep blue waters of the Balos Lagoon, I’m sure Crete is not a stranger to those who have looked into Greek islands before. Spend half of the day discovering Spinalonga, the Venetian citadel, wander through Chania with its colorful houses overlooking the seafront, take a day trip by boat to Chrissy island where waters are as blue as in the Caribbean, learn about history at Knossos – Europe’s oldest city dating from the Bronze Age. Or simply drive around the mountain winding roads and stop by at local tavernas where you’ll taste the real Cretan food.

No matter what you choose to do in Crete, spend time on the sandy beaches, or explore this culture and history-rich island, you surely won’t be disappointed or bored. 

10. Corfu

Recommended by Chrysoula from Travel Passionate

Corfu is one of Greece’s northernmost islands, with a mix of Greek and European influences which can be seen across the quaint fishing villages, Venetian mansions, Greek bakeries, and rolling vineyards of the island. This history is also represented in the range of museums, palaces, and fortresses of Corfu, which tell the stories of centuries gone by.

Located in the Ionian Sea, Corfu has long been a popular tourist destination, with thousands of visitors flocking every year to the beaches, towns, and nightclubs of the island. Whether you’re a family seeking a laid-back resort, a culture buff looking to learn, or a group of friends seeking out the best parties this side of the Mediterranean, there’s something here for you.

One of the great things about Corfu is that you can easily travel around the island, whether by rental car or motorbike or by using the public bus system which connects pretty much all of the tourist destinations with the main town. This means that wherever you stay you’ll be able to venture out and explore the island as and when you wish.

Ideally, you’ll give yourself at least a week to discover Corfu, so you’re able to strike a balance between visiting new places and relaxing on the beach. Whether you stay in Corfu Town, Agios Gordios, Kassiopi or the family-friendly Acharavi, you’re sure to have an epic trip to remember.

Corfu can easily be reached by plane, with direct flights from across Europe, or also by ferry from  Igoumenitsa and Patra leaving daily.

11. Lefkada

Lefkada, Greece

Recommended by Oksana & Max from Drink Tea & Travel

Located off the beaten path in the heart of the Ionian Sea, Lefkada Island is one of Greece’s most incredible natural beauties. This island has all the charm of other Greek islands with double the natural beauty and half the crowds. If you are planning a visit to Greece don’t miss this hidden gem.

The island is flanked with great beaches but one of the most well known is Mylos Beach. To get to the beach you’ll have to follow a 15 minute trail which descends along the cliff side. It’s a bit of a trek, but the trip is worth it. The white cliffs, turquoise waters and soft sand make Mylos Beach a great place to spend the day swimming and sunbathing.

More adventurous folks will be interested in visiting Vassiliki Beach. It is known as one of the top windsurfing destinations in Europe and the beach has lots going on. It backs onto some great mediterranean restaurants, bars, and cafes and there are lots of opportunities to go kitesurfing, sailing or partake in other activities like scuba diving just off shore.

You could spend a lifetime exploring all the nooks and crankies of Lefkada island. However, if you are interested in a Ledkafa beach vacation we would suggest you spend at least 3 days to a week on the island to see the main attractions and top Lefkada beaches.

12. Kefalonia

Kefalonia, Greece