Provence and French Riviera Tour: Mixed Group

Your experienced English-speaking group leader and tour guide will first take you to the charming resort town of Antibes, located on the French Riviera. Famous for its old town and the prominent Fort Carré that rises above the town, Antibes is a fascinating combination between coastal glamor and medieval history. Art buffs will particularly enjoy the visit to the Musée Picasso, which woos visitors with its extensive collection.

Typically shortened to just “Aix,” this university city is one of the most beautiful in all of France. Explore its quaint and sunkissed streets, walking in the footsteps of the famous Post-Impressionist painter Paul Cezanne, who hailed from the city. Ask your Tourlane Travel Expert for restaurant recommendations—Aix is full of top-rated restaurants. You’ll spend one night in this wonderful city. 

Next, your tour guide will drive you to Arles, a very walkable city full of attractions. History lovers will enjoy the visit to the Arles Amphitheatre, one of the many excellently preserved Roman ruins in this part of France. Art fans will be interested to learn about how Vincent Van Gogh used to live here, painting more than 200 canvases (including his famous Sunflowers). His influence on the town is palpable. You’ll enjoy a comfortable night’s stay in an Arles hotel. 

Your tour guide and driver will take you to Les-Baux-de-Provence, located nearly one thousand feet high in the beautiful, rocky landscape of Provence. You’ll be shown around a beautiful medieval village and a ruined castle, which boasts spectacular views to the south. You’ll be lost for words after enjoying the breathtaking beauty. 

Those interested in classics will delight on arrival to Pont du Gard, perhaps the best preserved ancient Roman aqueduct which dates from the first century AD. It’s also the world’s highest Roman aqueduct, with three different levels for visitors to marvel at. If the weather suits, the river below is perfect for swimming and cooling off during the hotter months—it does get very hot in Provence in the height of summer. 

Next up on the itinerary is the city of Avignon, famous for being the seat of the Catholic popes between 1309 to 1377. During the tour alongside your guide, you’ll witness the legacy of the Catholic Church in Avignon at the enormous Palais des Papes (palace of the Popes), as well as at the magnificent Avignon Cathedral, which is home to the mausoleum of Pope John XXII. 

When you visit Tourtour, you’ll discover eerie caves, grand palaces, and vineyards all in one day! Admire vast waterfalls and secret passageways hidden in the French countryside. Wine enthusiasts will enjoy a tasting session at a local vineyard. You will spend two nights here. 

The final stop on the tour is Castellane, the least-populous area in the entire of France.  It’s home to the Gorges du Verdon, an impressive gorge and canyon with sparkly turquoise waters which is guaranteed to take your breath away. Ask your guide if you’re interested in lake rafting and hiking, as the opportunities in Castellane are endless.