Things To Do
in Roussillon
Roussillon is a hillside village in the Vaucluse department, renowned for its dramatic ochre-tinted houses and cliff faces. It sits perched above the Luberon, offering sweeping views of Provençal countryside and vineyards. Its narrow, winding streets, sun-warmed stone, and artisan shops create a quintessentially picturesque Provençal moment.
Nearby ochre quarries and trails invite visitors to wander, photograph, and soak up the colors of southern France.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your morning with a stroll through the picturesque streets of Roussillon, where the vibrant ochre buildings contrast beautifully with the surrounding greenery. Don’t miss the stunning views from the Belvédère, offering a panoramic glimpse into the Provence landscape. Stop by a local café for a traditional French breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee.
In the afternoon, visit the Conservatoire des Ocres to learn about the history of ochre and its significance in the region. Take a leisurely hike through the nearby ochre quarries to witness the breathtaking colors that change with the light. After your hike, enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant featuring fresh, regional cuisine.
As the sun sets, find a charming spot for dinner in one of Roussillon's quaint bistros, savoring dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients. Take a post-dinner walk through the village to see the buildings illuminated at dusk, casting an enchanting glow. Conclude your day with a glass of local wine while relaxing on a terrace under the starlit sky.
Start your day by driving to Gordes, one of the most beautiful villages in France, known for its stunning stone architecture and breathtaking views of the Luberon valley. Spend your morning wandering through the narrow streets, exploring artisanal shops and enjoying the local art galleries. Take a moment at the viewpoint to capture photographs of the iconic landscape.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Abbaye de Senanque, a serene Cistercian monastery surrounded by lavender fields. Tour the abbey, learning about its history and the daily life of the monks who reside there. Enjoy a picnic lunch nearby, surrounded by the fragrant lavender, before continuing your journey.
Return to Roussillon in the evening and unwind at a cozy restaurant where you can indulge in a seasonal Provencal dinner. Enjoy the local specialties, including ratatouille and bouillabaisse, paired with a glass of rosé. End your night by soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of the village under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🧀Goat cheese or local cheese | $5-9 |
| 🍷Glass of local wine | $6-12 |
| 🥖Fresh baguette | $2-3 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per liter) | $1.8-2.5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning ochre landscapes and historic hilltop village charm
- Easy access to other Luberon villages and wine regions
- High-quality local cuisine and olive oil
- Good opportunities for photography and outdoor activities
- Quiet nightlife with limited late-evening options
- Can be crowded in peak summer months
- Some services and shops close in winter or have limited hours
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is...?
Places to Visit in Roussillon
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic walk through vivid red, orange, and yellow ochre cliffs with shafts of light filtering through pine trees.
Panoramic overlooks above Roussillon offering striking views of the orange-hued houses and surrounding hills.
Photogenic alleys with colorful facades, climbing vines, and inviting shadows at golden hour.
Food in Roussillon
Roussillon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Provençal vegetable stew featuring zucchini, peppers, eggplant, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs—delicious with crusty bread.
Must-Try!
Garlic mayonnaise served with boiled vegetables or fish; a Provençal classic often shared as a dish.
Olive paste spread on bread or crostini, commonly paired with goat cheese or tomatoes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A renowned Provençal market offering fresh produce, olive oil, honey, lavender products, and regional specialties.
A lively market by the river, ideal for cheese, bread, olives, and seasonal produce.
Seasonal local market offering fruit, vegetables, crafts, and a taste of village life.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say bonjour or bonsoir when entering shops or restaurants; politeness matters.
Smart casual for dining; modest attire when visiting churches or sacred sites.
Evenings tend to be calm—keep noise down in residential areas and while dining outdoors.
Safety
Tipping in Roussillon
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is usually included (service compris), but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated.
Credit and debit cards widely accepted; cash is still handy for markets and small vendors; contactless payments common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming flora; great for walking and photography with soft light.
Hot, dry days with peak tourist crowds; seek shade, carry water, and visit early or late in the day.
Harvest season; pleasant weather and wine events; golden light enhances ochre tones.
Cool and quieter; some shops and restaurants may close or have limited hours; ideal for peaceful visits.
Roussillon at Night
Hiking in Roussillon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Colorful ochre hills and scenic trails about a 40-60 minute drive from Roussillon; easy to moderate hikes.
Forested canyon and stream with shaded paths, waterfall features, and viewpoints; good for family hikes.
Airports
How to reach Roussillon by plane.
Regional airport serving southern Provence; 60-90 minutes by car to Roussillon.
Regional airport; about 1.5-2 hours drive to Roussillon.
Major international airport; around 2.5-3 hours by car to Roussillon.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-time residents who maintain traditional Provençal life.
Domestic and international visitors seeking scenery, cuisine, and wine.
People who work during tourist seasons in hospitality and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The area is known for scenic trail network through the Luberon and surrounding hills.
Flat to rolling roads ideal for cycling through vineyards, forests, and villages.
Nearby limestone cliffs offer climbing routes for enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Roussillon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Provençal dishes feature vegetables, so you can easily adapt menus; ask for ratatouille, salads with goat cheese, and grilled vegetables.