Cradled in northern Provence in the land of Côtes du Rhône vineyards, Orange really isn’t very big, but when compared with the sleepy wine villages that surround it, it’s a thriving metropolis. In many ways, Orange captures the essence of the region: the Provençal accent here is quite thick, and savory food and wine can be had—for a price. Come to see its two ancient Roman monuments, the Théâtre Antique and the Arc de Triomphe, spectacular vestiges of history that seem transported from a different world.

- Photo: (c) Nellmac | Dreamstime.com