Best of Aix en Provence and Marseille for Small Groups

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

What you will visit:

Aix-en-Provence
Pronounced just like the letter "X," this university and spa town is the cultural and political center of Provence. Aix has a Mediterranean climate and is positioned at the foot of Mont Sainte-Victoire, the imposing mountain that was a frequent subject in the paintings of Paul Cézanne. Aix is a charming place, with a lively student population and a vibrant, sophisticated cultural scene best explored on a walking tour that winds through the city's romantic streets, lined with stately 17th- and 18th-century mansions.

Marseille
France's largest port, Marseille was founded in the 6th century B.C. by the Greeks. Set within a dramatic limestone hillside, romantic Marseille is the gateway to Provence but also a vibrant city to explore in its own right. Experience the beauty and culture of France's second largest city with the gorgeous coastal road known as the Corniche du Président John F Kennedy.

Basilica Notre-Dame de la Garde, Marseille
A neo-Byzantine church built on the foundation of a military fort built by King François I, it is strategically placed atop the highest point in the city. A square bell tower rises 130 feet over the entrance and supports a copper and gilded gold statue of the Virgin Mary that looks out over Marseille. Don't miss the colorful mosaics decorating the interior cupolas.

What you will see along the way:
From Aix, you'll drive back towards Marseille along the Corniche du President J.F. Kennedy, a scenic coastal road dedicated to the U.S. president, with stunning views of the coast's craggy cliffs and beaches.

Photo Opportunities:

Place des Quatre-Dauphins (Four Dolphins Square)
Aix is sometimes referred to as the "city of a thousand fountains." Here, you can photograph one of the most notable, a fountain adorned with sculptures of four dolphins.

Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur d'Aix (Cathedral of the Holy Savior)
A stunning 12th-century national monument incorporating both Romanesque and Gothic architecture, the cathedral features more than 200 statues as well as other notable works of art.

The Old Port (Vieux-Port)
Overseen by two massive forts, Fort Saint-Nicolas and Fort Saint-Jean,
fishermen mingle with the younger crowd that frequents this revitalized part of town.

Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica
This neo-Byzantine church is built on the foundation of a military fort erected by King François I. A square bell tower rises 130 feet over the entrance and supports a copper and gilded gold statue of the Virgin Mary that looks out over Marseille.

Lunch:
Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant. Be sure to try one of the region's sweet specialties, the calisson d'Aix-diamond-shaped candies made out of almonds, honey and preserved melon.

Special Notes:

Flash photography & video camera are not permitted in the Cathedral. Relevant amount of walking over even & cobblestone streets, many steps to negotiate in Notre Dame de la Garde; comfortable shoes are highly recommended.