Forcalquier is an enchanting medieval town set beneath a centuries-old citadel. Get lost in the cobbled historic centre, sip café au lait in sun-drenched squares and climb up to the hilltop citadel. Venture into the countryside to discover idyllic Provencal landscapes and explore rural villages.
Things to do in Forcalquier
Enjoy sweeping views over the town and surrounding countryside from La Citadelle. The fort is perched on a hilltop and features a unique, octagon-shaped chapel. Narrow streets and stone staircases wind up to the citadel, which was once a stronghold for the Counts of Forcalquier.
Wander around centuries-old herb gardens overflowing with sage, lavender and other medicinal plants at Prieuré de Salagon. The priory dates back to the 13th century and moonlights as an atmospheric venue for art exhibitions and summer concerts. Don’t miss the beautiful Jardin de Senteurs, which is filled with fragrant plants, flowers and herbs.
Stroll around the historic centre and admire ancient buildings with carved stone facades and magnificent wooden doors. The architecture recalls Forcalquier’s heyday as the medieval capital of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence.
A handsome 12th-century cathedral towers over Place du Bourguet, the town’s picturesque main square. Enjoy coffee and croissants at a sidewalk café and shop for farm-fresh produce at the weekly market. Growers from across the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department descend on Place du Bourguet to sell fruit, vegetables, cheese, meat and other artisan products.
Rent a bike and explore the postcard-perfect countryside on two wheels. Quiet country roads wind past rolling fields of lavender and olive groves. Stop for lunch in the tiny village of Niozelles and enjoy Provencal classics like “ratatouille” vegetable stew and “bouillabaisse” fish soup.
Getting around Forcalquier
Forcalquier is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The town is in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department, a 1.5-hour drive from Marseille and 2.5 hours from Nice. Trains run between Forcalquier and Marseille in two hours. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit Forcalquier and explore the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department at your own pace. Marseille Provence Airport is a one-hour drive away.