Taking a piece of Provence home with you is part of the joy of visiting. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking to gift a bit of the region’s charm to friends and family, Provence offers an abundance of artisanal, locally made, and delicious treasures. Here’s a detailed guide to the best souvenirs to pick up while you’re exploring this sun-drenched corner of France.
1. Lavender Products
Lavender is synonymous with Provence, and its soothing fragrance lingers long after you return home. You can buy:
- Dried lavender sachets for drawers and closets
- Essential oils and pillow sprays
- Soaps and lotions made with natural ingredients
Look for labels that say “lavande fine AOP” which indicates true lavender grown in Haute-Provence.
* Recommended shop: La Maison du Lavandin in Valensole.
2. Provençal Soap (Savon de Marseille)
These iconic cube-shaped soaps are made using traditional methods from vegetable oils and natural scents like olive, lavender, and almond. They’re practical, fragrant, and beautifully rustic.
* Find it at Lourmarin’s Friday market or Marius Fabre.
3. Olive Oil and Tapenade
Olive oil from Provence is robust, fruity, and often organic. Pair it with black or green olive tapenade, perfect for aperitifs.
* Visit Château Virant or buy from local producers at the Lourmarin and Apt markets.
4. Local Wines and Rosé
Bring back a bottle (or a few) of rosé from the Luberon or Côtes de Provence. Many vineyards offer travel-safe packaging or ship internationally.
* Read more about local wines
5. Herbs de Provence and Culinary Gifts
Dried herbs, lavender honey, truffle salt, and fig jam are all deeply rooted in the region’s culinary heritage. Pick up a pre-packed spice sachet or create your own mix at a market.
6. Ceramics and Pottery
The villages of Provence are dotted with ceramic artisans who craft colorful tableware and decorative pottery. Look for traditional yellow and blue glazes or hand-painted olive motifs. Head to Roussillon or Moustiers-Sainte-Marie for workshops.
7. Textiles: Tablecloths, Napkins & Linens
Bright, bold Provençal fabrics often feature olives, sunflowers, and lavender motifs. Tablecloths and tea towels are lightweight and practical gifts.
Try Les Olivades for authentic printed fabrics.
8. Artisanal Perfume
Provence is close to Grasse, the world capital of perfume. Discover boutique perfumers creating unique, locally inspired scents.
Maison Fragonard or small apothecaries in Aix-en-Provence.
9. Handmade Candles
Scented with fig, verbena, or jasmine, candles from Provence are a stylish souvenir that evokes the essence of the region.
10. Antiques and Brocante Finds
Provence is a treasure trove for antique lovers. L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is one of the best places in France to find vintage furniture, enamelware, linens, and rustic decor. Check out Sunday market info and plan to arrive early.
Tips for Buying Souvenirs in Provence:
- Bring cash for smaller markets.
- Check airline restrictions for carrying liquids and oils.
- Ship large or fragile items using shop-provided international services.
- Ask for authenticity certificates with artworks or specialty food products.
Bringing a bit of Provence home means you can relive the sensory delights—scents, flavours, textures—of your journey. Whether you’re savouring olive oil in your kitchen or lighting a lavender-scented candle in your living room, these souvenirs help extend the magic of your Provençal escape long after the holiday ends.