Provence & French Riviera: Colors, Scents & GlamourFrom Medieval Villages to Mediterranean Splendor
Family Holiday | Active Vacation | Small Group Journey
Journey through the soul of Southern France on this enchanting 8-day exploration of Provence and the French Riviera. Experience the perfect blend of historic charm, natural wonders, and sophisticated coastal elegance as you traverse from the artistic streets of Aix-en-Provence to the glamorous shores of Nice. This carefully curated adventure combines the rustic beauty of Provence's hilltop villages with the glittering allure of the Côte d'Azur, creating an unforgettable Mediterranean escape.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Welcome to Aix-en-Provence
Arrive in the elegant city of Aix-en-Provence, the former capital of Provence and hometown of post-impressionist painter Paul Cézanne. Take time to settle into your accommodation before exploring the city's charming boulevards, elegant mansions, and refreshing fountains at your own pace. Stroll down the famous Cours Mirabeau, discover hidden squares, and immerse yourself in the authentic Provençal atmosphere. As evening falls, enjoy dinner (not included) at one of the city's many atmospheric restaurants, perhaps sampling local specialties in a historic setting. Overnight in Aix-en-Provence
Day 2 - Roman Heritage & Van Gogh's Provence
Embark on a fascinating small-group journey through Roman history and artistic legacy. Begin in UNESCO-listed Arles, where ancient Roman monuments stand proudly alongside places that inspired Van Gogh's masterpieces. Explore the magnificent amphitheater and ancient theater before continuing to charming Saint-Rémy de Provence for lunch and leisure time. The day concludes in Les Baux de Provence, a dramatic medieval village perched high in the Alpilles mountains, offering stunning panoramic views of the Provence countryside. Overnight in Aix-en-Provence
Day 3 - Luberon Villages Discovery
Journey through the heart of the Luberon region, visiting some of France's most beautiful villages. Start in stunning Gordes, perched dramatically on a hillside, before visiting the photogenic Senanque Abbey. After lunch, explore the ochre cliffs of Roussillon, where nature has painted the landscape in brilliant hues of red and yellow. End your day in charming Lourmarin, a Renaissance village that captured the heart of author Peter Mayle, discovered its hidden squares and historic castle. Overnight in Aix-en-Provence
Day 4 - Cassis & Calanques Adventure
Experience the natural wonders of the Mediterranean coast with a visit to the charming fishing village of Cassis. Take a boat trip to explore the stunning Calanques, limestone cliff inlets with crystal-clear turquoise waters. Enjoy free time to explore the village's colorful harbor and narrow streets. The day includes a stop at Cape Canaille for breathtaking coastal views and concludes with a wine tasting featuring Provence's unique vintages. Overnight in Aix-en-Provence
Day 5 - Aix-en-Provence to Nice
Board a comfortable high-speed train for your journey to the French Riviera. Arrive in Nice, the queen of the Côte d'Azur, where the afternoon is yours to discover the city's attractions. Stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais, lose yourself in the ochre-colored streets of the Old Town, or climb up to Castle Hill for panoramic views over the bay and city. Overnight in Nice
Day 6 - Glamour of Monaco & Charm of Eze
Discover the contrasts of the French Riviera, from medieval villages to modern luxury. Visit the enchanting village of Eze, perched high above the Mediterranean, and learn about traditional French perfume-making at Fragonard. Continue to the Principality of Monaco, where you'll explore the historic Monaco-Ville, see the changing of the guards at the Prince's Palace, and enjoy free time in Monte Carlo's famous casino square. Overnight in Nice
Day 7 - French Riviera Villages & Perfume
Embark on a comprehensive tour of the Riviera's highlights, from the glamorous boulevards of Cannes to the artistic haven of Saint-Paul de Vence. Visit the picturesque port of Antibes, discover the medieval charm of Tourettes-sur-Loup, and enjoy spectacular views from Gourdon. Conclude your journey in Grasse, the world's perfume capital, with a visit to the renowned Fragonard perfumery. Overnight in Nice
Day 8 - Farewell to the French Riviera
Enjoy a final breakfast in Nice, perhaps taking one last stroll through the colorful Cours Saleya market or along the seafront before your departure
Other Information
- Tour Code : SMF003.25
- Duration : 7 Nights/8 Days
- Departure City : Aix-en-Provence, France
- Ending City : Nice, France
- Type : Private Tour
- Departure : Guaranteed Departure
- Grade/Difficulity : Moderate
- Transport Mode : Car/Minivan
- Children Allowed : Yes
- Max Group Size : 15
- Language Offered : English
- Starting/Meeting Point : Your Hotel
Departure Dates
April 2025 - 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23
May 2025 - 2, 3, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30, 31
June 2025 - 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 27, 28, 29, 30
July 2025 - 1, 2, 4, 5, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
August 2025 - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31
September 2025 - 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
October 2025 - 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 31
Blackout Dates
25,26,27,28,29,30 April 2025, 1,4,5 May 2025, 6,7,8,9,11,12,13,14 July 2025
Tour Includes
- 4 nights accommodation in Aix-en-Provence
- 3 nights accommodation in Nice
- First-class train ticket from Aix-en-Provence to Nice
- Small group full-day Roman Heritage tour (max 8 guests) including visits to Arles, Saint-Rémy, and Les Baux de Provence
- Small group full-day Luberon Villages tour (max 8 guests) including visits to Gordes, Senanque Abbey, Roussillon, and Lourmarin
- Small group full-day Cassis & Calanques tour including calanques boat trip and wine tasting
- Small group full-day Monaco & Eze tour
- Small group full-day French Riviera Villages tour (max 8 guests) including visits to Cannes, Antibes, Saint-Paul de Vence, Tourrettes-sur-Loup, Gourdon, and Grasse
Tour Excludes
- Daily breakfast
- Flights
- Visa
- Arrival and departure transfers
- Dinner in Aix-en-Provence
- Meals and drinks, unless specified in inclusions
- Optional activities not listed in inclusions
- Additional wine tastings or château visits
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Travel Insurance
- City tourist taxes (to be paid locally)
Notes
- Aix-en-Provence : Radisson Hotel Aix En Provence or similar
- Nice : La Villa, Apollinaire or similar
- The twin Room has a supplement of 10% on the double rate
- While we strive to provide the specific hotels listed, we reserve the right to substitute properties of equivalent or superior quality to ensure the best possible experience for our guests.