Updated : 2 February 2026 at 10:02
Deeply in love with our beautiful Southern region, we’re excited to share with you our top 10 best villages of Luberon. Built on a rocky spur, overlooking stunning lavender fields or nestled in a landscape that is typically provençal, these small villages are absolute must-sees if you’re planning to visit the Luberon.
You’ll find yourself in the heart of the countryside, lulled by the sound of cicadas and surrounded by breathtaking scenery combining ancient stone houses, vineyards, lavender fields, and olive groves. How could you not fall in love with these charming corners of France where life feels wonderfully slow and sweet ? That’s exactly what happened to us when we first visited the villages of the Luberon back in 2020.
And if you’re planning a 15-day road trip through the south of France and the Luberon is on your route, then this article couldn’t come at a better time! You’ll explore places steeped in the spirit of Provence, admire character-filled homes, wander through narrow streets, discover historical heritage and stumble upon stunning viewpoints. So here is our selection of the 10 best Luberon villages !
When is the best time to visit the Luberon ?
If, like us, you enjoy lively atmospheres, we recommend visiting during high season. July and August are perfect for that: the weather is ideal, and you can even enjoy festivals taking place at this time of year. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher accommodation prices.
If you prefer exploring villages in a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere, opt for April to June or September–October. While the weather can be a bit unpredictable, the climate remains mild and generally dry.
GOOD TO KNOW : From mid-June to early July, you’ll be able to admire lavender fields throughout your journey, perfect for unforgettable photos !
How to Get to the Luberon ?
If you don’t live in the region and want to visit the Luberon, there are several options:
– By car : this is, in our opinion, the most convenient option. Carpooling is welcome (Bla Bla Car).
– By train : the closest train stations are in Avignon and Aix-en-Provence. There are also stations in Manosque and L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. From there, you can rent a car or use the regional ZOU buses.
– By bus : with “ZOU”.
– By two-wheels : motorcycle or bicycle.
– By private excursion from Marseille or Aix for a day trip >> Book your excursion in advance on GetYourGuide.
A 2-Day Itinerary Through the Most Beautiful Villages of the Luberon
Driving time (excluding visits) : 2h20
We recommend splitting the route in two days to fully enjoy each village and its surroundings :
Day 1 : Gordes, Oppède-le-Vieux, Ménerbes, Lacoste and Bonnieux
Day 2 : Saignon, Sivergues, Lauris, Lourmarin and Cucuron
An overnight stop in Bonnieux is ideal. Our personal favorite is a stunning guesthouse surrounded by vineyards and lavender fields : le mas Les Eydins. The rooms are beautifully decorated, and the gourmet restaurant is exceptional (Chef Christophe Bacquié, 2 Michelin stars).
1. OPPÈDE-LE-VIEUX, OUR HIDDEN GEM OF THE LUBERON
♥️ What we love : its “alone-in-the-world” feeling, perched on a rocky spur in the heart of preserved nature. What defines it ? Authenticity and tranquility, blending ancient stone and lush greenery. For us, it’s a true hidden treasure of the Luberon. We were instantly captivated by its rustic charm, narrow streets, small square, and old stone houses. In short, a medieval village that makes you feel completely out of time. As a bonus, you’ll cross a charming botanical park, the Sainte-Cécile Gardens, before reaching the village entrance. Visiting Oppède-le-Vieux is, in our opinion, essential if you’re discovering the Luberon!.
⭐️ Must-see : the climb up to Notre-Dame Dalidon Church. The cobbled path passes through village houses, the small Chapel of the Pénitents Blancs, ruins, and breathtaking views over the valley. At the top, you’ll enjoy an exceptional view over the rooftops. Next to the church are also the ruins of the Oppède-le-Vieux fortress.
📷 Best viewpoint : it is located here. A true Provençal postcard, with olive groves in the foreground and Oppède-le-Vieux surrounded by majestic hills. A must at sunset !
2. SAIGNON, THE EMBODIMENT OF OLD-STONE CHARM
♥️ What we love : located at the foot of a rocky outcrop, Saignon has a unique charm with its flower-filled streets and ancient stonework. You’ll be enchanted by Fountain Square, the old washhouse, ivy-covered stone façades, and of course the famous mossy fountain. As you wander through the streets, you’ll discover character homes with original doors, washhouses, fountains, and a church with a view, all decorated with plants and delicate touches lovingly placed by residents. So many reasons that make Saignon the second of the 10 most beautiful villages in the Luberon !
⭐️ Must-see : the place de la Fontaine. Each season offers a different spectacle : lush green in spring, fiery colors in autumn, and refreshing shade in summer thanks to the hackberry tree and fountain. You’ll never be tired of photographing this magical spot.
📷 Best viewpoint : from Bellevue Rock, enjoy an exceptional 360° panorama over the Calavon Valley, Apt, Mont Ventoux, and the rooftops of Saignon.
3. LAURIS, A MAGNIFICENT VILLAGE ROOTED IN ITS ROCKY SPUR
♥️ What we love : its lovely cobbled streets and houses creatively decorated by locals. Its majestic castle and the stunning perspective offered by the Dye Plants Garden. The terraces are remarkable and offer breathtaking panoramic views. Simply sit on one of the benches and soak it all in. We also loved the well-preserved heritage of this hilltop village, including its old olive oil mill, fountains, public washhouse, and church.
⭐️ Must-see : the terraces of Lauris castle, featuring arcades, fragrant plant beds, fountains, and 18th-century basins. Take a moment to relax on a bench and admire the view. On a clear day, you can even spot Sainte-Victoire and the Alpilles.
📷 Best viewpoint : from the castle square. After passing through the monumental 18th-century gate and courtyard, climb the stairs to the gardens for a striking perspective over the landscaped terraces on one side and the Durance Valley on the other side.
4. LACOSTE, THE MOST MYSTERIOUS VILLAGE IN THE LUBERON
♥️ What we love : cobbled streets winding between stone houses, shaded squares, façades of old-time shops, and above all, a sense of stillness, as if time had stopped. This mysterious, historic atmosphere comes from the fact that the village is now partially inhabited. That’s what makes both its uniqueness and its charm. Like all hilltop villages, its location offers unbeatable panoramas over the surrounding landscape. For us, Lacoste fully deserves its place among the 10 most beautiful villages in the Luberon.
🤓 Did you know ? In 2001, the fashion-designer Pierre Cardin purchased the ruins of Lacoste Castle, once owned by the Marquis de Sade. After restoring it, he gradually acquired many properties in the village, much to the regret of some residents. His goal was to turn Lacoste into a “Saint-Tropez of culture.” The result ? Dozens of boutiques and art galleries opened, while many houses remained empty most of the year. This nonetheless increased tourist interest in the village.
– Update –
Pierre Cardin’s death in 2020 brought his projects to a halt. Several village houses are said to have been sold, along with renewed hope of bringing life back to the area.
📷 Best viewpoint : from Lacoste Castle. The esplanade is accessible year-round and offers an incredible setting between red-tiled rooftops and the entire Luberon landscape.
5. MéNERBES, A BREATHTAKING VIEWPOINT !
♥️ What we love : its long, narrow layout, perfectly balanced yet firmly anchored to its rock. Inside the village, Ménerbes’ streets resemble small veins running through it. Charming gardens and squares with fountains, Provençal-style houses, old residences, and 16th- and 18th-century mansions will all win you over. To us, Ménerbes radiates strength and elegance while boasting a rich historical heritage. Go in search of Saint-Luc Church and its spectacular viewpoint, or the discreet citadel (now private property). This Luberon village has truly earned its place among the most beautiful villages in France!
⭐️ Must-see : a visit to Saint-Hilaire Abbey to enjoy peace and serenity in a bucolic setting. A former convent with a beautiful garden. Self-guided visit: 6€ / 10 minutes by car from Ménerbes.
📷 Best viewpoint : near the Clock Tower, where a huge “window” opens onto the landscapes of the Luberon and the Vaucluse Mountains.
6. SIVERGUES, A TINY VILLAGE AT THE END OF THE WORLD
♥️ What we love : its picturesque and peaceful character. It’s tiny (barely forty inhabitants) but utterly charming! We discovered it during a lovely hike starting from Buoux and immediately fell in love with its authenticity. Don’t expect shopping or cafés here; there’s none of that in Sivergues! This haven of peace consists solely of stone houses and a few narrow, winding cobbled streets known as calades. You’ll also find a modest chapel (Saint-Pierre et Sainte-Marie) and the ruins of a medieval castle. Surrounded by tranquility, this tiny village invites nature lovers to slow down and relax.
⭐️ Must-see : take a break under the olive tree next to the town hall, a perfect spot to rest and reflect while admiring the valley view.
📷 Best viewpoint : it’s located here. On the road to Chantebelle, enjoy a view of the village façades with the cobbled street climbing between charming houses.
7. BONNIEUX, THE HIGHEST VILLAGE IN THE LUBERON
♥️ What we love : even higher than the previous villages, Bonnieux offers exceptional panoramic views. In season, small shops and cafés/restaurants create a warm, lively atmosphere. Just pick a terrace with a view and enjoy Provençal cuisine… Keep in mind that “hilltop” also means steep streets! But the village is well worth the effort, with its remarkable homes, fountains, washhouses, beautiful “Rue Droite,” and remnants of ramparts. Although very touristy, Bonnieux hides many treasures and its friendly atmosphere makes it one of the most beautiful villages in the Luberon.
⭐️ Must-see : about ten minutes away by car is the famous Pont Julien, a remarkably well-preserved Roman bridge. Listed as a historical monument, it spans the Cavalon River (often dry in summer). Visit in the late afternoon to see it bathed in warm light.
📷 Best viewpoint : from the upper church surrounded by centuries-old cedars, enjoy a breathtaking panorama over Lacoste, the Petit Luberon and the Vaucluse Mountains.
8. GORDES, THE MOST FAMOUS VILLAGE !
♥️ What we love : cobbled streets dotted with art studios and dry-stone houses of pale limestone. Both elegant and rustic, Gordes has managed to retain a sense of authenticity despite its popularity. It’s one of the most beautiful hilltop villages in France and in 2023 it was even named the most beautiful village in the world by a famous American magazine. During your walk, you’ll encounter vaulted passages, stairways, Gallo-Roman remains, squares, fountains, Gordes Castle, and Saint-Firmin Church. We personally love its beauty and enjoy strolling through its old streets, though we still feel it lacks something to rank first on our list.
⭐️ Must-see : it’s hard to choose between two iconic sites: the Village of the Bories or Sénanque Abbey. The abbey charms visitors with its Romanesque architecture and lavender fields (best visited in late June when in bloom, remember to wear appropriate clothing). Both sites are 4 km from Gordes. You’ll step back in time and discover traditional dry-stone architecture typical of the region. Entry fee: €8.
📷 Best viewpoint : located here, it is the best view over the valley and the magnificent village of Gordes in the distance. Stunning at any time of year, at sunrise or sunset. Be careful, there are no railings on this rocky outcrop.
9. LOURMARIN, CHIC YET Typically PROVENÇAL
♥️ What we love : the breathtaking scenery as you approach Lourmarin by road. In the heart of classic Provençal countryside, the Renaissance château watches over a beautiful village lined with plane trees. Flower-filled streets circle the village center, hosting small restaurants, artisan shops and art galleries. Despite the summer crowds, a gentle way of life prevails. We’re always dazzled by the character houses covered in ivy, charming decorations, the lovely village fountain (the oldest one), and the shaded, convivial squares.
⭐️ Must-see : Lourmarin Castle. A wonderful discovery that takes you back in time, with beautiful settings and well-preserved rooms. There’s even a treasure hunt for children to make the visit more engaging. Entry fee: €7.50.
📷 Best viewpoint : it is here, just before entering the village. It’s the perfect spot for a panoramic photo of the village with vineyards in the foreground.
10. CUCURON, A GENTLE WAY OF LIFE
♥️ What we love : its peaceful atmosphere, yet lively thanks to its market, small shops, and traditional restaurants. Cucuron is especially known for its famous square surrounded by cafés with very friendly terraces. In summer, the shade of plane trees around the pond provides welcome relief from the heat. Its architectural heritage is another highlight: the village is surrounded by ramparts and two massive medieval gates. Don’t miss Notre-Dame de Beaulieu Church, the tour du rempart, the belfry, and the Saint-Michel keep during your stroll.
⭐️ Must-see : enjoy an artisanal ice cream at La Glacière, Place de l’Etang. A real summer treat, enjoyed in the shade of the plane trees !
📷 Best viewpoint : from the top of Saint-Michel Keep. The panorama over the village rooftops and the distant Alpilles is sublime.
– OUR OPINION –
To us, this region is simply stunning. Each of the 10 most beautiful villages of the Luberon presented here is worth visiting. We are captivated by their architecture, character, and unique atmosphere. Add to that the preserved surrounding nature and exceptional valley views, and you’ll feel like you’re in paradise !
We hope this blog article has helped in your decision if you weren’t sure which village to visit. And if you already know the region, tell us : which Luberon village is your favorite, or which one would you have liked to see included in this ranking ?
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