Things To Do
in Pernes-les-Fontaines
Pernes-les-Fontaines is a charming medieval town in the Vaucluse department of Provence, nestled along olive groves and rolling hills. The town is famed for its network of fountains, earning the nickname of a fountain-filled stroll through old stone alleys. Located at coordinates 43.9986, 5.0597, it serves as a pleasant base for exploring the Luberon region and nearby vineyards.
Expect a relaxed pace, with intimate squares, artisan workshops, and fragrant Provencal markets around every corner.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the vibrant local market in Pernes-les-Fontaines, where you can browse fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and regional specialties. Engage with friendly vendors and perhaps even pick up some ingredients for a picnic later. The lively atmosphere will give you a true taste of the village life.
After your market excursion, head over to the historic center to explore the charming streets and discover various shops, cafes, and hidden gems. Take a leisurely stroll to the famous 16th-century belfry, and capture some stunning photographs of the picturesque surroundings. Enjoy a light lunch at a local café, sampling regional dishes.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant where you can savor traditional Provencal cuisine paired with local wines. Enjoy the relaxed ambiance as you indulge in a multi-course meal; don't forget to try the local specialties such as ratatouille or bouillabaisse. Post dinner, take a peaceful walk through the village, soaking in the enchanting night lights.
Dedicate your morning to exploring the rich history of Pernes-les-Fontaines by visiting some of its renowned historical sites, such as the Church of Saint Julien and the Château de Pernes. Immerse yourself in the fascinating stories and architecture that define this region. Guided tours are available for those who prefer a deeper understanding of the local history.
Enjoy lunch at Le Restaurant du Château, an elegant eatery known for its ambiance and delicious menu. Afterward, delve deeper into the history by visiting the remains of the Roman aqueduct nearby, where you can connect with the past while enjoying the beauty of the surrounding nature. Take a leisurely afternoon to explore the quaint streets around the sites.
As evening approaches, relax at a local wine bar where you can sample a variety of wines sourced from the nearby vineyards. Revel in the sense of community as you mingle with locals, sharing stories and recommendations. Finish your day with a leisurely dinner at an outdoor terrace, delighting in the culinary creations inspired by the region.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥖Loaf of fresh bread | $1-2 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $3-5 |
| 🛏️Hotel per night (center) | $120-200 |
| 🚗Car rental per day | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming medieval town with numerous fountains
- Excellent base for exploring Provence and nearby villages
- Small town atmosphere with limited nightlife
- Distances to larger cities require car travel or longer public transport
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
- "Où est la gare?" - Where is the train station?
- "Je voudrais ceci, s'il vous plaît" - I would like this, please
Places to Visit in Pernes-les-Fontaines
Visit one of these nice places.
A famed cluster of fountains and water features set into the old town—perfect for reflective surfaces and dynamic light.
Sunlit stone arches and quaint squares provide intimate, atmospheric photo opportunities.
Serene waterways, bridges, and willow-lined banks ideal for tranquil landscape shots.
Historic church façades and surrounding façades offer warm-toned evenings and golden hour colors.
Food in Pernes-les-Fontaines
Pernes-les-Fontaines Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A vegetable stew featuring zucchini, eggplant, peppers, tomatoes, and Provençal herbs; best enjoyed with crusty bread.
Must-Try!
A hearty vegetable soup finished with pistou (basil, garlic, olive oil) and grated cheese.
Garlic mayonnaise served with seasonal vegetables and seafood.
Slow-cooked beef with red wine, garlic, onions, and herbs, a comforting classic.
Olive paste spread for bread, often enjoyed with aperitifs or as a condiment.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town square with fresh produce, cheeses, olives, herbs, and regional specialties.
Seasonal stalls offering local olive oil, lavender products, and pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite bonjour or bonsoir; small talk is common but not overbearing.
Keep hands on the table; wait for everyone; wine often accompanies meals; calmly finish courses.
Dress modestly; speak softly; be mindful of worship times and any restrictions.
Safety
Tipping in Pernes-les-Fontaines
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included; if not, a 5-10% tip is customary for good service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for markets and smaller cafes; contactless payments common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming gardens; bring light layers and comfortable walking shoes.
Warm to hot days; stay hydrated, use sun protection, and enjoy alfresco dining in cooler evenings.
Harvest season with olives and grapes at their peak; cooler days and colorful landscapes.
Milder winters; some shops may close earlier; cozy cafes and candlelit streets create a intimate ambiance.
Pernes-les-Fontaines at Night
Hiking in Pernes-les-Fontaines
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic canyon with dramatic viewpoints and well-marked trails, suitable for day hikes.
Rugged limestone ridges offering scenic climbs and panoramic views over vineyard landscapes.
Gentle to strenuous trails in the surrounding hills with expansive vistas.
Easy, fragrant walks through seasonal lavender fields in bloom in late spring and early summer.
Airports
How to reach Pernes-les-Fontaines by plane.
Compact regional airport about 20-40 minutes by car to Pernes; useful for short-haul flights within Europe.
Major international hub about 70-90 minutes by car or rail to Pernes; broader flight options.
Regional airport with limited international flights; access via road and rail to the Provence region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Market days and safe streets make it family-friendly with frequent community events.
Calm pace of life and local clubs attract a steady retiree presence.
Seasonal influx for fountain tours, markets, and countryside exploration.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Gentle to challenging routes through vineyards and rolling countryside.
Popular pastime in town squares; casual games with locals in the evenings.
Nearby ridges and gorges provide scenic, day-long trekking opportunities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pernes-les-Fontaines.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable-forward plates; request goat cheese or eggs; olive oil-based sauces; avoid meat-based broths.
Ask for plant-based dishes; look for olive oil dressings and vegetable-forward meals; confirm dairy-free options in sauces.
Many markets offer gluten-free breads; ask about sauces and pastry ingredients; opt for grilled/roasted dishes without flour-based thickeners.