Things To Do
in Pertuis
Pertuis is a sun-drenched Provençal town in the heart of southern France, surrounded by vineyards and rolling countryside. Its compact historic center features narrow lanes, stone houses, and a lively market atmosphere that speaks to everyday Provencal life. The town serves as a convenient gateway to the Luberon and Sainte-Victoire regions, offering easy access to hill towns, vineyards, and olive groves.
Visitors can savor olive oil, seasonal produce, and vibrant local culture in a relaxed, authentic setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Land at Marseille Provence Airport and take a scenic drive to Pertuis, surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of the Luberon region. As you settle into your charming accommodation, enjoy your first taste of local delicacies at a nearby café. Take a leisurely walk around the town to appreciate the quaint architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Discover the local market, bustling with vendors selling fresh produce, artisan breads, and hand-crafted goods. Engage with the friendly locals and sample some of the regional specialties. Spend some time absorbing the essence of Provençal life as you stroll through the narrow streets.
Dine at an authentic French restaurant, where you can savor classic dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. As the sun sets, experience the enchanting ambiance of Pertuis as it comes alive with the soft glow of street lamps. Wrap up your evening with a glass of local wine at a cozy bar.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to Luberon National Park. Join a guided hiking tour to explore the picturesque trails offering stunning views of lavender fields and vineyards. The refreshing morning air will invigorate you as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty.
After your hike, take a picnic lunch amidst the picturesque landscapes of the park, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of nature. Explore the quaint villages of Roussillon and Gordes, renowned for their ochre cliffs and charming cobblestone streets. Enjoy shopping for unique artisan goods and local crafts.
Return to Pertuis and unwind with a casual meal at a bistro. Engage in conversations with locals, diving deeper into the rich culture and traditions of the area. Enjoy a peaceful night stroll, relishing the stars twinkling above in the clear Provençal sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥖Bakery item or breakfast | $2-4 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-6 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $5-8 |
| 🧀Grocery staples (bread, cheese, fruit) | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent access to wine country and hill towns
- Relaxed pace, friendly locals, and strong culinary scene
- Walkable town center with markets and historic architecture
- Good base for day trips to the Luberon and Sainte-Victoire
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Seasonal crowds and traffic in peak summer
- Public transport outside the town center is limited
- Distances to major airports and large hospitals can be long
- "Bonjour" - Hello (good morning/hello)
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la gare ?" - Where is the train station?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "Pouvez-vous m'aider ?" - Could you help me?
- "Je suis allergique à ..." - I am allergic to ...
- "Où sont les toilettes ?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Pertuis
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful Provencal buildings and shuttered windows create charming compositions, especially in the soft morning light.
Historic church exterior with stone detailing; look for geometric shadows and morning or late-day sun angles.
Cascades of textures from stone arches, tiled roofs, and vendors’ stalls provide rich street photography opportunities.
Water reflections and rural silhouettes at sunset offer tranquil landscape shots.
Food in Pertuis
Pertuis Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory olive purée often served with bread as an appetizer or alongside plates.
Must-Try!
A coastal-inspired fish stew enriched with saffron and herbs, best enjoyed with aioli and crusty bread.
A comforting Provençal vegetable medley featuring zucchini, peppers, tomatoes, and herbs.
A caramelized onion tart topped with olives and anchovies, common in Provençal markets.
Creamy cod and olive oil spread sometimes served with bread or potatoes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market offering olives, honey, cheeses, fruit, vegetables, and Provençal specialties on market days.
Seasonal vendors offering quick bites like socca, panisses, grilled vegetables, and fresh pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always say 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' when entering shops or restaurants; use polite phrases and please/thank you.
Wait for everyone to be served, keep voices moderate in public spaces, and avoid loud behavior in small eateries.
Safety
Tipping in Pertuis
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is included in many tourist restaurants. If not included, leaving a small tip (about 5-10%) for good service is common practice.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is also available. Contactless payments are common in shops and cafés.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with long sunshine. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon; stay hydrated and savor refreshing rosé and light dishes.
Harvest season with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Ideal for vineyard visits, markets, and scenic drives through the countryside.
Mild to cool with occasional rain. Town centers are quiet but atmospheric; great for indoor tasting rooms and cozy dinners.
Blooming landscapes and pleasant temperatures. Perfect for walking, photography, and exploring hill towns nearby.
Pertuis at Night
Hiking in Pertuis
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic limestone ridge offering sweeping views over the valley and several well-marked trails.
Scenic routes linking Gordes, Lourmarin, and other villages with panoramic valley views and lavender fields in season.
Riverside and woodland paths suited for easy to moderate day hikes with diverse scenery.
Airports
How to reach Pertuis by plane.
Major international gateway located near Marseille; connects to many European and international destinations; driving or rail links to Pertuis are straightforward.
Smaller regional airport with regional connections; transfer to Pertuis longer but feasible via road and rail routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in and around Pertuis; the town offers markets, parks, and family-friendly cafes.
The tranquil pace and sunshine attract retirees seeking a relaxed Provençal lifestyle.
Some residents commute to nearby towns for work or study, contributing to a bilingual, culturally engaged community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A classic Provençal pastime commonly played in village squares and parks.
Popular on rural roads and vineyard routes, with scenic, moderate-to-challenging terrain.
Trails in the Luberon foothills and Sainte-Victoire valley draw hikers with panoramic views.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pertuis.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy ratatouille, stuffed vegetables, olive oil-based dishes, and market-fresh salads; communicate that you avoid meat/fish and ask for house-made breads and vegetable sides.