Salon-de-Provence Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink, where to stay, safety and health tips, and more in Salon-de-Provence, France.


Introduction to Salon-de-Provence

Located in Bouches-du-Rhône in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, Salon-de-Provence is a charming town in southern France. The town boasts of a rich cultural heritage and is known for its historical landmarks and natural beauty.

Salon-de-Provence is a perfect destination for travelers who want to explore the scenic beauty of southern France while enjoying some outdoor adventures. The town is known for its traditional markets, museums, and historical sites.

If you’re planning to visit Salon-de-Provence, this guide will help you discover the best places to visit, food and drink, where to stay, safety and health tips, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Salon-de-Provence

There are plenty of places to visit in Salon-de-Provence. Whether you’re interested in learning about the rich cultural heritage of the town or want to explore its natural beauty, there’s something for everyone.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Salon-de-Provence has a rich historical and cultural heritage. There are several museums and historical sites that you could visit to learn about the town’s fascinating past.

  • Chateau de l’Emperi: This is a historic castle that was built in the 9th century and was the residence of Salons’ archbishops. The castle is now a museum and houses an extensive collection of artworks, furniture, and precious objects from the town’s past.

  • Musee Nostradamus: This museum is dedicated to the life and work of Michel de Nostredame, also known as Nostradamus. The museum exhibit’s Nostradamus’ books, manuscripts, and other artifacts related to his life and work.

  • Fontaine Moussue: This is a charming fountain located in the middle of the town and is known for its unique green moss covering. According to legend, drinking water from the fountain can cure eye ailments.

Natural Attractions of Salon-de-Provence: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Apart from its rich cultural heritage, Salon-de-Provence is known for its natural beauty. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy and scenic views to admire in and around the town.

  • Parc Naturel Regional des Alpilles: This is a natural park located near Salon-de-Provence and is known for its breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, and wildlife. The park is spread over 50,000 hectares and is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

  • Fontaine de Château Renard: This is a natural spring located near the town and is known for its crystal clear water. The spring is a popular spot for swimming and picnics during summers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Salon-de-Provence

Salon-de-Provence is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. There are several hiking and biking trails in and around the town that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Some of the popular trails include:

  • Les Rabasses Trail: This is a 7-kilometer trail that starts from the center of the town and takes you through the scenic countryside, vineyards, and olive groves.

  • Le Sentier des Baumes: This is a 2.5-kilometer hiking trail that takes you through the hills overlooking Salon-de-Provence. The trail offers breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Salon-de-Provence: Activities and Tours

Apart from the hiking and biking trails, there are plenty of other things to do in Salon-de-Provence. From wine tasting and olive oil workshops to exploring the local markets and cultural events, there’s something for everyone.

  • Wine Tasting: Salon-de-Provence is located in the heart of the Provence wine region. You can take a tour of local vineyards and wineries to taste some of the finest wines in the world.

  • Olive Oil Workshops: The town is known for its high-quality olive oil production. You can take a workshop to learn about the traditional olive oil production methods and taste some of the best olive oils in the world.

Week-Long Itinerary for Salon-de-Provence

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Salon-de-Provence, here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your trip:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the town center and visit Chateau de l’Emperi and Musee Nostradamus
Day 2 Take a hiking trip to Parc Naturel Regional des Alpilles and Fontaine de Chateau Renard
Day 3 Visit the local markets and take an olive oil workshop
Day 4 Explore the town’s historical landmarks, including Fontaine Moussue and St Michel Church
Day 5 Take a wine tasting tour of the local vineyards and wineries
Day 6 Visit the nearby towns and villages, such as Saint-Remy-de-Provence and Arles
Day 7 Take a hot air balloon ride over the town to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the stunning landscapes

Food and Drink Scene of Salon-de-Provence

Salon-de-Provence is known for its traditional Provençal cuisine, which uses fresh local produce and flavors. There are plenty of traditional restaurants and cafes where you can taste some of the best dishes in the region.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tian Provençal: This is a vegetable casserole made with fresh tomatoes, zucchini, eggplants, onions, and herbs.

  • Bouillabaisse: This is a traditional sea-food dish made with fresh fish, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.

Local Beverages

  • Rose Wine: This is a famous wine produced in the Provence region. The wine is light and fruity, and pairs well with seafood dishes.

  • Pastis: This is an anise-flavored liquor that is popular in the Provence region. The liquor is served with water and ice and is an excellent aperitif.

Where to Stay in Salon-de-Provence: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Salon-de-Provence offers plenty of accommodation options for travelers. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels, budget hostels, or traditional guesthouses, there’s something for every budget and preference.

Some of the popular accommodation options in Salon-de-Provence include:

  • Hotel de l’Horloge: This is a luxury hotel located in the heart of the town. The hotel is known for its elegant rooms, fine dining experience, and excellent service.

  • Le Mas Angelussi: This is a traditional Provençal guesthouse located near the town center. The guesthouse offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a beautiful garden.

What to Buy in Salon-de-Provence: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Salon-de-Provence is known for its traditional crafts, such as pottery, handicrafts, and textiles. There are several local markets and shops where you can buy souvenirs and local products to bring home.

Some of the popular products to buy in Salon-de-Provence include:

  • Santons: These are traditional Provençal figurines made of clay and painted by hand. The figurines represent characters from the Nativity scenes and are popular souvenirs in the region.

  • Lavender Products: The Provence region is known for its lavender fields, and there are several shops that sell lavender products, such as soap, perfume, and oils.

Local Culture and Customs of Salon-de-Provence

Salon-de-Provence is a town with a strong sense of tradition and culture. The locals are proud of their heritage, and there are several cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

Some of the popular cultural events and festivals in Salon-de-Provence include:

  • Feria de Salon: This is a traditional bullfighting festival that takes place every August. The festival features bullfights, concerts, and other cultural events.

  • Fête de la Transhumance: This is a traditional sheep herding festival that takes place every June. The festival features a parade of sheep and locals dressed in traditional costumes.

Best Time to Visit Salon-de-Provence

The best time to visit Salon-de-Provence is between May and September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the town is bustling with outdoor activities and cultural events. However, the town can become crowded during the peak season, and prices can be higher.

If you want to avoid the crowds and still enjoy pleasant weather, you can visit Salon-de-Provence in April or October when the weather is mild, and prices are lower.

Do’s and Don’ts of Salon-de-Provence

To make the most of your trip to Salon-de-Provence, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Try the traditional Provençal cuisine and local wines.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take a tour of the local vineyards and olive groves.
  • Explore the town’s historical landmarks and museums.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting churches or other religious sites.
  • Be loud or disrespectful in public places.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Salon-de-Provence

Salon-de-Provence is a relatively safe town, and the crime rate is low. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions to avoid petty theft and pickpocketing.

Always keep your valuables safe, especially in crowded places or tourist attractions. It’s also a good idea to keep your passport, credit cards, and other documents in a safe place.

Health in Salon-de-Provence

Salon-de-Provence is a safe destination for travelers, and there are no major health risks. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions to avoid any health problems.

Make sure that you’re up to date with your routine vaccinations, such as measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), and get vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B if you haven’t already done so.

Getting to Salon-de-Provence: Transportation Options and Logistics

Salon-de-Provence is easily accessible from other parts of France and Europe. Here are some of the transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Salon-de-Provence

The nearest international airport to Salon-de-Provence is Marseille Provence Airport, which is approximately 30 miles away. You can take a taxi or shuttle bus from the airport to Salon-de-Provence.

Bus Stations Near Salon-de-Provence

Salon-de-Provence has a central bus station from where you can take a bus to other parts of the region. There are several bus companies that operate services to nearby towns and cities, such as Saint-Remy-de-Provence and Aix-en-Provence.

Other Options

You can also consider taking a train to Salon-de-Provence. The town has a train station, and there are several trains that operate services to other parts of the region.

How to Get Around in Salon-de-Provence

Salon-de-Provence is a relatively small town, and it’s easy to explore on foot. However, if you want to travel further afield, you can consider taking a taxi or renting a bicycle or car.

There are several taxi companies in the town, and you can hail a taxi from the street or book one in advance. If you want to rent a bike or car, there are several rental companies in the town that offer a range of vehicles to choose from.

Where to Go Next from Salon-de-Provence: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to explore more of the Provence region, there are several towns and cities nearby that are worth visiting. Some of the popular destinations include:

  • Aix-en-Provence: This is a beautiful university town located approximately 20 miles from Salon-de-Provence. The town is known for its elegant city center, museums, and markets.

  • Avignon: This is a historic city located approximately 45 miles from Salon-de-Provence. The town is known for its stunning architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Conclusion

Salon-de-Provence is a delightful town in southern France that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The town is a must-visit destination for travelers who want to explore the Provence region and enjoy some outdoor adventures.

We hope this guide has helped you discover the best places to visit, food and drink, where to stay, safety and health tips, and more in Salon-de-Provence. Happy travels!