In the morning, you’ll be picked up directly at your Avignon hotel and whisked away on a day trip thorough the Provençal countryside to visit Aix-en-Provence and Marseille.
Your first stop is Aix-en-Provence, a chic university town that was once the region’s capital. Stroll along the leafy walkways of Cours Mirabeau to view elaborate mansions, fountains and upscale shops. You’ll soon arrive in Vieil Aix (Old Town), where you’ll have free time to sightsee and perhaps visit the Atelier Paul Cézanne, the Post-Impressionist artist’s final studio (own expense). An Aix-native, Cézanne spent his later life in this inspirational town. Tour the workspace where he created pieces like Les Grandes Baigneuses and view some of his subjects such as the Montagne Sainte-Victoire.
Next, head to seaside Marseille, France’s oldest city. Wind through the colorful streets and learn about Marseille’s ancient Roman history. Experience the city’s highlights such as a picturesque stroll along La Canebière in Old Town, and visits to the medieval Abbey of St Victor and the stunning Notre-Dame de la Garde, a Neo-Byzantine basilica that towers over town. From this vantage point, catch sweeping views of the city and the sea, the gorgeous Chateau d’If, and the Vieux Port (Old Port) – the largest port in France.
Your full-day private tour ends with drop-off at your hotel in Avignon by evening.
