Year Round Departures for Groups

Brief History:
The Provence region combines historic sites, striking scenery and some of the best dining in the country. In 1309, Pope Clement V moved the seat of the papacy of the Catholic church from Rome to the Provence region of Avignon where it remained for 68 years. The area was also made famous by French Impressionists Cezanne and Van Gogh.

Provence (Avignon, Arles, Aix-En-Provence & Marseille):
Nearest Airport: Marseille
Approximately 475 miles southeast from Paris to Avignon
Approximately 30 miles southwest from Avignon to Arles
Approximately 62 miles east from Arles to Aix-en-Provence
Approximately 25 miles south from Aix-en-Provence to Marseille
Accessible by plane, train or car

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Avignon
Avignon is known as the City of Popes. The Papal Palace, constructed in the 14th century, was where the pontiff held court. The Rocher des Doms is a large park offering splendid views complete with graceful swans. Stroll the narrow streets starting at the Place de l'Horloge, lined with restaurants, shops, entertainers and street vendors. Spend all four nights in Avignon, making day trips to the surrounding towns.

Day 2: Arles
In the small town of Arles, the spirit of Vincent Van Gogh seems to still be alive. It was in 1888 that the artist immortalized the city in his paintings. Be sure to visit the 4th century Roman baths and the amphitheater built during the reign of August in the 1st century. The Cryptoporticus is a strange maze of underground galleries existing below a 17th century chapel.

Day 3: Aix-en-Provence
The upscale town of Aix-en-Provence is full of high priced French boutiques and cafes. However, beautiful architecture and gorgeous fountains make a stop in the Provence worth the trip. Seek out the studio of impressionist painter Paul Cezanne, which looks pretty much as it did when the artist was alive.

Day 4: Marseille
The large city of Marseille is Europe's second largest port. Like most cities, it offers a variety of interesting museums. The Museum of Mediterranean Archaeology has worthwhile collection of Egyptian and Celto-Ligurian artifacts. An excellent collection of modern art is on permanent exhibit at the Cantini Museum. The Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde towers on a limestone cliff above the city. The interior of the church is decorated with colorful murals and mosaics. To get a feel for the real Marseilles, make a trip to the morning fish market.

Day 5: Cassis
Quite the contrast to Marseille, Cassis has once been referred to as "paradise on earth". The former coral fishing village is now a thriving beach town with expensive villas, restaurants and spectacular white cliffs. Wrap up your visit to the Provence area with a relaxing day on one of the small local beaches.