Things To Do
in Apt
Apt sits in the heart of the Luberon, framed by olive groves and limestone hills. The town exudes Provençal charm with narrow lanes, terracotta roofs, and lively markets. Its medieval ramparts and hillside church offer sweeping valley views.
Beyond the town, lavender fields and perched villages invite easy day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the picturesque streets of Apt, admiring the colorful facades and unique shops. Don’t miss a visit to the famous Apt market, where you can find fresh produce and local crafts.
After lunch, delve into the rich history of Apt by visiting the Cathedral of Saint Anne, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. Explore the quaint art galleries and boutiques that line the streets, offering exquisite local handmade products. As the afternoon winds down, head to the nearby Conservatory of the Lavender to learn about the region's famous aromatic herb.
As the sun sets, choose a cozy bistro to enjoy traditional Provençal cuisine. Relish the flavors of the region, paired with a glass of local wine while soaking in the lively atmosphere. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the scenic paths, taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Spend the morning venturing into the stunning Luberon Natural Park, where you can hike along picturesque trails surrounded by lush landscapes. Stop for a picnic among the vineyards, enjoying the serenity and charm of the nature around you. Don’t forget to capture some photos of the breathtaking vistas.
In the afternoon, visit the enchanting village of Roussillon, famous for its vibrant ochre cliffs and stunning views. Explore its narrow streets, unique boutiques, and art galleries displaying local artwork. An optional guided tour can enhance your understanding of the area's ochre production history.
For dinner, discover a local restaurant that specializes in dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients from the region. Enjoy the rustic charm of the village as you savor every bite while listening to the sounds of laughter and conversation around you. Conclude the day with a nightcap at a nearby bar, taking in the warm ambiance of the Luberon.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥖Sandwich or takeaway meal | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🧀Grocery staples for a week (basic) | $60-100 |
| 🍷Bottle of mid-range wine | $8-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning countryside and charming Provençal towns
- Excellent food and wine, with seasonal local specialties
- Compact size makes it easy to explore on foot or by bike
- Access to dramatic natural spots like Colorado Provençal
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale cultural venues
- Public transport can be sparse between villages; a car helps
- Day trips to some attractions require planning due to distance
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est..." - Where is...
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "Je voudrais ceci, s'il vous plaît" - I would like this, please
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un plat végétarien ?" - Can you recommend a vegetarian dish?
Places to Visit in Apt
Visit one of these nice places.
Spectacular ochre-red cliffs and unique rock formations set against blue Provencal skies; a standout location for wide landscape shots and close-up textures.
Panoramic views of the valley and surrounding hills from elevated vantage points near the historic core; especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Rocky limestone facades and winding lanes framed by cypress and hillside scenery; ideal for golden-hour photography of perched villages.
Food in Apt
Apt Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Eggs enriched with fresh local truffles, often finished with a light drizzle of olive oil and crusty bread.
Must-Try!
Beef slow-braised in red wine with garlic, onions, herbs, and aromatics into a tender, flavorful stew.
A hearty vegetable soup finished with pistou (basil, garlic, olive oil) and grated cheese.
A colorful medley of zucchini, peppers, eggplant, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, served with crusty bread or as a side.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering olives, lavender products, goat cheese, honey, figs, and seasonal produce; a great place to taste local flavors and pick up picnic supplies.
Seasonal stalls throughout town sell lavender sachets, honey, olive oil, and small Provencal snacks ideal for a countryside picnic.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A courteous “bonjour” or “bonsoir” is appreciated when entering shops or restaurants. Address people with “monsieur” or “madame” until invited to use first names.
Relaxed, friendly interactions are common. Take time to linger over meals and chat with locals; rushing service is not typical.
Safety
Tipping in Apt
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is typically included (service compris) in many restaurants, with optional additional tip of 5-10% for good service. Rounding up at cafes or for hotel staff is common but not mandatory.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery and blooming flowers; great for walking and photography. Occasional showers; layered clothing recommended.
Hot, sunny days with long daylight hours. Hydration is essential; markets thrive and lavender blooms peak in late spring to early summer in nearby fields.
Pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities; harvest flavors awaken markets; quieter streets and golden light for photography.
Mild but cooler days with cooler evenings; fewer crowds. Truffle season can be active in nearby markets; cozy cafes are inviting.
Apt at Night
Hiking in Apt
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic high-altitude hike or cycling ascent offering dramatic panoramas over Provence; challenging but rewarding.
Scenic canyon trails with dramatic cliffs and forested paths; ideal for extended hikes and photography.
Moderate hikes with sweeping valley views and opportunities to discover perched villages along the way.
Airports
How to reach Apt by plane.
Major international gateway about 1.5–2 hours by car/taxi; frequent domestic and international connections; car rental and regional transfers available.
Smaller regional airport offering seasonal and charter flights; convenient for accessing the northern Provence region.
Regional airport serving the area with limited but useful connections; typically reached by car or rail links.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of longtime Provençal families and seasonal workers who arrive for markets and harvests.
Visitors drawn to the Luberon's scenery, markets, and countryside lifestyle; some expatriates settle seasonally in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Scenic bike routes through vineyards, olive groves, and hill towns; popular with both road and gravel riders.
Moderate-to-easy trails in the Luberon and surrounding hills; renowned viewpoints and varied terrain.
A social, relaxed pastime commonly enjoyed in town squares and parks during warm evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Apt.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Apt, vegetarian options are common in most bistros (ratatouille, pistou soups, grilled vegetables, salade niçoise without tuna). Inform staff about no meat stock or dairy if needed; many dishes can be adapted.