Speak to our Travel Experts
Overview
Striking Natural Beauty of Provence
Immortalised by Van Gogh and Cézanne, Provence is home to breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and cultural significance. From sun-baked plains adorned with fields of lavender to vineyards and olive groves, the region offers an array of natural beauty and diversity. The distant hills of the Luberon and the endless azure sky complete this stunning landscape.
The Camargue is equally captivating, with its wide wetlands home to wild white horses, herds of black bulls, and striking pink flamingos that seem to move in perfect formation.
Provincial France at its finest, Provence’s towns are filled with charm, the most famous being Aix-en-Provence. The old quarter is a maze of traditional shops, peaceful squares, and ancient fountains, creating an atmosphere of calm tranquillity. The vibrant markets and bustling café terraces are shaded by plane trees, offering a true taste of local life. The majestic Mont St. Victoire, immortalised by Cézanne, rises above the town like a Parisian landmark, yet it retains a gentle, village-like charm.
At a Glance
- 7 nights in four to four-star superior accommodation
- Return flights & transfers
- Return Eurostar, TGV & transfers
- Programme of daily tours & visits
- Daily breakfast & 2 dinners at local restaurants*
- Expert Riviera Tour Manager looking after you throughout
- Checked luggage included
- New smaller group sizes for 2025 & 2026**
(*Stays at the Novotel Aix En Provence also include 1 dinner at the hotel)
(**Maximum of 36 on a Classic tour, maximum of 25 on a Signature tour)
Highlights
- Visit Avignon to marvel at its medieval architecture, including the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) and the Pont du Gard, one of the largest and most well-preserved Roman aqueducts in the world.
- Guided tours of Aix-en-Provence, the home of artist Paul Cézanne, and Arles, the historic capital of Roman Gaul.
- Experience the spectacular beauty of the Luberon Mountains, with their picturesque landscapes and rich flora.
- Tour the village of Cassis, a picture-perfect fishing village, and enjoy a boat trip to explore the dramatic Calanques cliffs.
- Discover the unique Camargue region with a boat trip through its wetlands. This area is renowned for its wild black bulls, white horses, and stunning pink flamingos.
Itinerary Details
Day 1: Arrival in Aix-en-Provence
Fly to Nice, Marseille, or Montpellier, or travel by Eurostar and TGV to Aix-en-Provence.
Choose from a selection of hotels where you’ll stay for seven nights with bed and breakfast, two dinners in your hotel, and two dinners in excellent local restaurants, offering an authentic taste of the region’s cuisine.
Day 2: Tour of Aix-en-Provence
Aix-en-Provence is a charming town, originally founded as a spa by the Romans.
Explore the labyrinth of alleyways and squares, known as the “city of a thousand fountains.”
Cezanne, the city’s most famous son, painted more than 300 works here. Visit his preserved workshop and enjoy a city tour. Afterward, enjoy some free time to explore.
Day 3: The Camargue
Travel to the Camargue, a national park known for its white horses, black bulls, and pink flamingos.
Afterward, visit the historic town of Arles, the “Pearl of Provence,” with remarkable preservation of Roman ruins, including the forum, theatre, and amphitheatre.
Enjoy some free time before returning to your hotel.
Day 4: Luberon Mountains
Venture into the Luberon Mountains, a region that inspired Peter Mayle’s “A Year in Provence.”
Travel through fertile plains with olive and peach groves, then climb to the fragrant lavender fields, mimosa, and pine trees that define Provence’s signature aroma.
The area is now a much-prized nature reserve.
Day 5: Avignon
Visit Avignon, known for its historical significance.
In the 14th century, the Pope’s court was exiled here, bringing immense wealth and resulting in the construction of magnificent churches, convents, and the Papal Palace.
Tour this grand building or visit the Petit Palais Museum with over 1,000 paintings.
Next, visit the Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct and one of the wonders of the ancient world.
Day 6: Free Day
Enjoy a free day in Aix-en-Provence.
Stroll through its ancient streets lined with 17th and 18th-century mansions.
Admire the graceful charm of its fountains or relax and explore at your own pace.
Day 7: Cassis
Head to the Mediterranean Coast to visit the picturesque port town of Cassis.
Explore the charming fishing boats anchored in the harbor, or sample some delicious local seafood.
For stunning views, take a boat tour of the Massif des Calanques, famous for its dazzling white cliffs and sea pinnacles.
Day 8: Return Flight or Eurostar
Return to the airport or railway station at the appropriate time to head home, bringing an end to your unforgettable tour of Provence.
This format should provide a clear and structured layout for your itinerary.
