Things To Do
in Cavaillon
Cavaillon is a historic Provencal town perched near the Luberon, famed for its Mediterranean atmosphere and as a gateway to olive groves and vineyards. The town sits along the Calavon river, with a compact old quarter studded with stone streets and a hilltop church. Its markets overflow with fresh produce, local olive oil, and the region’s renowned melons.
Visitors can enjoy a relaxed Provençal pace, excellent food, and easy access to nearby villages and nature reserves.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early by visiting the local market in Cavaillon, where the vibrant stalls offer fresh produce, spices, and artisanal goods. Mingle with locals and savor the aromas of Provençal herbs as you browse through the colorful displays. Don’t forget to pick up some local specialties such as melon de Cavaillon.
After a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, spend your afternoon wandering the narrow streets of the town, admiring the charming medieval architecture. Visit the historic site of the Saint Jacques Chapel, adorned with striking frescoes that tell the story of the town's history. Take your time to enjoy a cup of local wine at a terrace while soaking in the ambiance.
As the sun sets, indulge in a dinner at a traditional Provençal restaurant, enjoying dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Join a culinary workshop afterwards to learn about the famous regional recipes. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets, taking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Head out early to the surrounding lavender fields, typically in full bloom during late June to early August, filling the air with their aromatic scent. Capture stunning photographs of the endless purple landscapes, especially against the backdrop of the stunning Luberon hills. Take a moment to appreciate the peacefulness of the countryside.
Return to Cavaillon for a hearty lunch featuring local delicacies. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby village of Gordes, which is known for its stunning hilltop views and charming stone buildings. Relax at a local café and enjoy the traditional Provençal lifestyle.
In the evening, return to Cavaillon and dine at a cozy restaurant, enjoying dishes featuring the region's famous olives and cheeses. If you're lucky, there might be a local event or festival happening, bringing the community together with music and dance. End your night with a glass of rosé while watching the stars from a quiet square.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🥖Baguette | $2-3 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧀Cheese plate | $7-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming Provencal town with historic streets
- Excellent access to the Luberon and countryside
- Can get crowded with day-trippers in peak season
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to larger cities
- "Bonjour" - Hello/Good morning
- "S’il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est…?" - Where is…?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
- "L’addition, s’il vous plaît" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Cavaillon
Visit one of these nice places.
Imposing medieval church with a dramatic façade and cloister; ideal for architectural shots.
Narrow lanes, stone facades, and ornate arches perfect for street photography at golden hour.
Quaint riverside scenes with reflections of pastel buildings and boats.
Panoramic shots of Cavaillon and the surrounding countryside.
Food in Cavaillon
Cavaillon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A celebrated, sweet melon typically served chilled as a refreshing starter or snack.
Must-Try!
A garlic-emulsified sauce served with boiled vegetables and seafood or salty cod.
Beef slow-cooked in red wine with herbs and garlic, a comforting regional stew.
A vegetable soup finished with pistou (basil pesto), embodying the flavors of Provence.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market days feature local produce, olives, honey, cheese, and seasonal specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say Bonjour/Bonsoir on entering shops; use polite phrases like s’il vous plaît and merci.
French is preferred; learning basic phrases helps; avoid discussing sensitive topics in public.
Keep hands visible; wait to begin meals; don’t rush conversations.
Safety
Tipping in Cavaillon
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is included in many restaurants; if not, a 5-10% tip is common for good service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash remains common for markets; contactless payments are widespread.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming landscapes; best for walking and photography before the heat kicks in.
Hot days with possible heat waves; carry water, seek shade, enjoy outdoor markets and long evenings.
Warm days and cooler evenings; harvest season brings fruit stands and vineyards in full color.
Mild but can be chilly; occasional rain; great for town strolls, markets, and museum visits.
Cavaillon at Night
Hiking in Cavaillon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic gorge with shaded trails and rock formations, near the Luberon region.
Rolling hills and forest trails suitable for day hikes.
Seasonal lavender routes with picturesque views into the valley.
Airports
How to reach Cavaillon by plane.
Small regional airport serving the Provence region; about 25–30 minutes by car from Cavaillon.
Major international gateway about 1.5–2 hours by road; extensive flights.
Regional airport near Nîmes; accessible by car or train with connections to the coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families with children live in Cavaillon and surrounding suburbs.
Traditional Provençal residents who maintain local markets and customs.
Tourists and expatriates who spend part of the year in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played; local clubs and community leagues.
Popular social activity in town squares and parks.
Provence is famous for cycling; many routes pass through Cavaillon and the surrounding hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cavaillon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy ratatouille, pistou soup, olive oil–based dishes, and cheese plates; ask for olive oil and herbs and verify broths if needed.