11-Nights Off the Beaten Path in Southern France

Europe Express

Off the Beaten Path in Southern France
This Southern France itinerary offers travelers a rich mix of culture, history, and natural beauty off the beaten path from the typical French tours of Paris and Avignon. From the vibrant French Riviera to the scenic countryside of Provence and the bustling port city of Marseille, guests will experience the best of the region through small group tours, private excursions, and unforgettable dining experiences. Starting in Nice, travelers will spend four nights exploring Monaco, Monte Carlo, and the medieval village of Eze. Highlights include a perfumery tour, a thrilling drive along the Grand Prix circuit, and a gourmet dining experience in Monte Carlo. Guests will also enjoy wine tasting in Saint-Paul-de-Vence and have free time to soak in the Mediterranean sun. Next, travelers will head to Aix-en-Provence for four nights, where they will embark on a full-day tour of Provence, visit local markets, and explore the villages of Gordes, Roussillon, and/or L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. A scenic drive through Verdon Canyon, including a stop at Sainte-Croix Lake, rounds out the Provence experience. Finally, guests will spend three nights in Marseille, with a private half-day tour of the city and an excursion to the picturesque fishing port of Cassis. The tour concludes with a panoramic drive through Marseille, complete with a photo stop at Notre-Dame de la Garde. With a balance of guided tours and free time, this itinerary allows travelers to fully immerse themselves in the charm, culture, and beauty of Southern France.

Includes: Activities and excursions as specified in the itinerary Accommodation: Nice (4 nights) - Aix-en-Provence (4 nights) - Marseille (3 nights) Meals where noted in the itinerary Train rides where noted in the itinerary Admission tickets as specified in the itinerary

Featured Destinations

Provence (Marseille) Provence (Marseille) Marseille is a vibrant, cosmopolitan port in the Provence region of France. Craggy mountains provide a spectacular backdrop. As a Mediterranean melting pot, the port virtually rubs shoulders with intimate, picturesque old harbor, the Vieux Port. Packed with watercrafts, this is the heart of Marseille. Two fortresses guard the harbor: Fort Saint Nicolas and Fort Saint Jean. Several vantage points offer spectacular views, including the impressive Basilica Notre Dame de la Garde - a prominent landmark overlooking the city that is crowned by a monumental, gilded statue of Virgin Mary. Marseille boasts numerous fine museums well worth a visit. Sitting at one of the many outside cafes or strolling the streets of the old port area lets you experience the unpretentious charm of this city. Other sights include Chateau d'If - a 16th century fortress-turned-prison; Basilica St-Victor - Marseille's oldest church with the appearance of a fortress; and La Canebiere - a broad boulevard with everything from hotels to cafes and shops.	Destination Guide
Aix-en-Provence Aix-en-Provence Known for 'one thousand fountains' and intimately-shaded squares, Aix-en-Provence was an is an inspiration to artists and poets alike. Visit Atelier de Cezanne, Paul Cézanne's studio that has been preserved in its original form.	Destination Guide
Nice Nice Nice is undoubtedly the place for the opening up of art and culture. The Côte d'Azur has inspired, from time immemorial, the greatest painters, writers and musicians. It has compelled recognition of its avant-garde across the Atlantic, its museums are holding prestigious collections in edifices of renowned architecture. Nice is full of an extraordinary artistic and cultural heritage. The gentle way of life sustains the imaginary world of artists and stimulates their creativeness. A cultural and aesthetic atmosphere prevails here; the cultural life is intense. It is punctuated by temporary exhibitions in the museums and the municipal galleries, by the programming of the theatres of which the most important is the Theatre of Nice - National Dramatic Centre - directed by Jacques Weber. The Opera House of Nice's Theatre proposes events of great quality.	Destination Guide

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