Gourmet and historic guided walking tour

Today you’ll head out and explore this historic Mediterranean city. ”Historic” might even be an understatement—with 2600 years of history, it makes for France’s oldest city. It’s so old that it was founded on the site of the Ancient Greek colony of Massalia around 600 BCE.

Meet your guide in the center of this multicultural city for three hours, wandering around and going from one neighborhood to another discovering all the little Marseillaissecrets and anecdotes…

The visit begins in the Old Port, under the modern architectural artwork, the ”Ombrière”. Here takes place in the daily fish market. A few steps away is Marseille’s oldest neighborhood, where the Greeks began the foundation of the city, Le Panier.

Try the famous navettes and the best ice cream in town, discover artisanal life, galleries & artists, the ancient fort & gardens of Fort St-Jean, the Cathédrale St Marie Majeur and the Hotel Dieu.

During this tour with a local, expect exceptional views across the bay, with interesting angles and singing accents from this colorful Mediterranean port city.

Possibles stops:

• coffee break in a typical Old Port bistro
• workshop in a Marseille soap factory and museum
• olive oil chocolate tasting
• visit 17th century Vielle Charité or the modernist MuCEM museum
• shop in artisanal boutiques and artist galleries

You’ll want to end the excursion in Vieux-Port in the heart of the city, where you can finish off the day by enjoying a good pastis or beer accompanied by a beautiful sunset.

Enjoy a boat ride respecting the environment onboard an ecological Hybrid/Electric boat.

From the Vieux-Port, you will sail with the expert guide south across the beautiful Bay of Marseille. We will have the opportunity to learn about the French oldest city history and its main monuments.

You will reach the gates of the Calanques, la “Baie des Singes” (The Monkeys Bay). This amazing passage between Maïre Island and the Croisette Cap represents the gate to reach the National Parc des Calanques.

Private tour

From 14:30 am to 17:30 pm. 

Possibility of swimming and doing snorkeling

Accommodation: Hotel Maison Montgrand 3* | Double Room, Marseille

Car rental | Toyota Corolla Auto or similar ( | CDAR) from your place of departure to your place of arrival, for the duration of your trip. GPS and unlimited mileage are integrated into your ’all-inclusive pack’.

Discover markets of Aix en Provence !

Spend the morning exploring Aix en Provence on your own. Visit the flower market and the Provençal food market to find local specialties such as macarons, calissons, goat’s cheeses, olive oil, honey, and fantastic local wines. Wander the narrow streets go shopping in the fashion boutiques of this “mini-Paris,” or simply relax at your hotel.

”Aix” enjoys an exceptional geographic location and the picturesque charm of the surrounding villages will pleasantly surprise you, as well as its magnificent landscape immortalized by painters such as Cezanne, Picasso, and Kandinsky. Discover on your own the beauty of this city by strolling around its labyrinth of narrow streets and thousand fountains!

The Luberon is first and foremost a massif of lush vegetation and exceptional wildlife, making it the Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon: Provencal markets, artists and festivals are there in abundance to awaken your senses! You’re also close to Provencal culture, and there’s no shortage of culinary delights: herbs, garlic, basil, olive oil, truffles, figs, honey… And of course, the wines that have made South-East France such a famous wine-producing region!

You’ll pass through the region’s typical landscapes, and will be able to find the following nearby:

• Lourmarin: Your first stop and gateway to the Luberon region. Between the Durance and Luberon rivers, amidst olive and fruit trees, this pretty village is listed as one of the “most beautiful villages in France”. It appears, calm and luminous on its gentle hills. Punctuated by three bell towers (the belfry, the church and the temple) and a multitude of alleyways circling the heart of the village, enjoy its charming houses, shops, restaurants, fountains and art galleries. It’s a lively village, and a good option for lunch.

• Bonnieux: Before arriving in Bonnieux, whatever your route, it’s the top of the church steeple that you’ll see in the distance. At 425 metres, it dominates the sumptuous surrounding countryside and watches over this magnificent Luberon hilltop village. Set in tiers on a cliffside above the valley, Bonnieux is one of the most beautiful villages in the Luberon. Its terracotta-roofed houses spread out over the hillside in a beautiful harmony of color and form.

• Gordes: classed as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Gordes is a major tourist attraction thanks to its history, exceptional location and cultural activities… Clinging at an altitude of 340 metres to a rocky promontory in the Monts de Vaucluse, Gordes dominates the plain and the Calavon Valley, offering a breathtaking view of the famous Luberon mountain opposite.

Gordes

Gordes, ranked as one of the most beautiful villages in France, is a must-visit destination for lovers of heritage, nature, and culture. This iconic tourist hotspot captivates with its rich history, stone-built architecture, and exceptional geographical setting.

Perched at 340 meters above sea level on a rocky promontory in the Monts de Vaucluse, Gordes offers breathtaking panoramic views over the Calavon Valley and the Luberon mountain range, which majestically faces the village.

Wandering through its winding, cobblestone streets, you’ll discover a village steeped in history, crowned by its imposing 16th-century château, now home to art exhibitions. Gordes is also a lively hub, boasting vibrant markets, art galleries, and numerous festivals throughout the year.

That said, Gordes’ popularity comes at a cost. The village can become quite crowded during the summer high season. To fully appreciate its charm, we recommend visiting outside peak periods, in spring or autumn, when it regains its tranquility and authentic charm.

The surrounding countryside, however, remains stunning all year round, with its patchwork of olive groves, orchards, lavender fields, and wooded hills. Nearby gems include the Sénanque Abbey, nestled amidst lavender fields, and the bories, the region’s signature dry-stone huts.

Accommodation: Guesthouse | Au Ralentin du Lierre | Standard Room, Gordes

Guided tour of chocolate factory + wine & chocolate atelier express

The guided tour of the factory and wine & chocolate atelier offer a delightful immersion into the world of fine chocolate and wine.

This experience begins with a guided tour of an artisanal chocolate-making atelier, where visitors witness the artistry behind the creation of gourmet chocolates. Guests learn about the careful selection of cocoa beans, the transformation into rich chocolate, and the techniques that give each piece its distinct flavor and texture. This behind-the-scenes look offers chocolate lovers and curious visitors alike a newfound appreciation for the craft.

Following the tour, the wine & chocolate atelier invites participants to dive into a unique tasting journey that pairs Castelain’s exquisite chocolates with regional wines. Led by knowledgeable guides, this express workshop introduces the art of pairing, highlighting the complementary flavors and aromas that make wine and chocolate a harmonious duo. Guests are encouraged to explore different combinations, discovering how specific wines bring out the nuanced tastes of the chocolates.

Ideal for couples, groups, or solo travelers with a love for gourmet experiences, this tour is a must-do for anyone wanting to savor Provence’s rich culinary heritage in a setting that’s both educational and delicious.

Prestige tasting of Chateauneuf-du-Pape wines

Treat yourself to a tasting experience of 5 Prestige cuvées.

This tasting aims to make you discover the specificities of our wines, from an original angle: unique terroirs, atypical grape varieties or even special cuvées.

The tasting will be accompanied by a more in-depth explanation on the history of our wine AOC and our estates, the winemaking methods, the philosophy of our winemakers, the terroirs, the choice of blends & much more!

To share with you the rarity that is white wines from Châteauneuf-du-Pape, this tasting will feature 2 white wines & 3 red wines.

See you soon for an unforgettable tasting in our exclusive venue, right in the center of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape village.

Welcome to Avignon

Enjoy the fascinating city of Avignon, the capital of festivals and a medieval city with confidential and picturesque streets.

It was here that Pope Clement VI moved his court in the 14th century, and for several decades thereafter the city remained the seat of the Catholic popes. The historic center of the city, the Palace of the Popes, the episcopal complex and the Pont Saint Bénézet are all listed as world heritage sites by UNESCO.

Avignon invites you to discover the Provencal gastronomy and to taste a Côtes du Rhône wine of which it is the capital. The city is perfect for strolling and discovering… don’t hesitate to explore its medieval streets and have dinner in the historical center before returning to your accommodation.

Accommodation : Hotel les Jardins de Baracane B&B, Avignon

Avignon gourmet tour, morning (small-group tour)

With your guide, stroll through the old streets of Avignon for a gourmet stroll! Meet the city’s artisans and taste the Provençal specialties. Visit a bakery, chocolate factory, or cheese dairy and discover the best artisans of Avignon. At the end of the visit, you will have a meeting for a tasting of Châteauneuf du Pape, chosen by an expert.

Gourmet Tour through the old town including ten tastings (sweet & savory) + hot drink + 3 drinks (glass of fine Rhône Valley Wine, small glass of sweet Muscat Wine, drink of choice). Duration of the visit: 3h30

Visit Avignon

Once you’ve checked-in, you’ll have the rest of the day to explore this fascinating medieval city.

There’s quite a bit of history here, as this is where Pope Clemente VI moved his court in the 14th century, and for several decades thereafter it was the seat of the Catholic popes. You’ll visit the Unesco Heritage Sites of Le Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) and the Pont Saint-BŽéneŽzet medieval bridge, which is the subject of the famous song Sur le Pont d’Avignon, composed back in the 15th century.

You can continue wandering around and exploring these medieval streets before sleeping at your hotel.

Papal Palace and Avignon Bridge visits

Go discover the Papal Palace in Avignon! It is the symbol of the Church in the Christian Occident in the 14th century. This architectural monument was built by two popes and is now a famous and symbolic Palace in Avignon, showing well the medieval universe of the whole town.

You can enjoy a dynamic and original visit of the Papal Palace with the Histopad! With this digital pad, you’ll be immersed in the past and you will be able to relive the Popes’ lives in the pontifical courtyard of the 14th century. The Histopad touchscreen tablet will be handed to you at the entrance for a playful and interactive experience. Thanks to this augmented reality, you will be able to visualize the everyday-life scenes in the rooms of the Papal Palace as they were in the past!

Accommodation : Hotel les Jardins de Baracane B&B, Avignon

Avignon -Pont du Gard- Les Baux – St Remy – Arles

With your car, head west of Avignon into the countryside (a 40-minute drive). You’ll reach another bridge far more impressive than the one in Avignon: the Pont du Gard, one of the oldest aqueducts of the Roman world, set in a stunning landscape. This bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was built in the 1st century AD by the Romans and was part of a massive 50-kilometer aqueduct that supplied the city of Nîmes with clean, running water.

Next, head toward La Montagnette, pass through the charming village of Graveson, and arrive at the beautiful Abbaye Saint Michel de Frigolet, located on the edge of the Alpilles Natural Regional Park.

The Alpilles Natural Park is known for its untamed beauty and proudly preserved traditions. Here, you can wander among mountains covered with Mediterranean scrubland, pine, and oak forests, interspersed with lush green plains that are a delight to the eye.

After visiting Saint Rémy de Provence, a picturesque Provençal village that inspired the works of the famous painter Vincent van Gogh, continue on to Les Baux de Provence, a hilltop village perched on a cliff that’s well worth the detour. If time allows, don’t miss the immersive experience of the Carrières de Lumières exhibition.

In the afternoon, drive to Arles.

Park your car near your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Welcome to the city of Arles!

Discover the ancient Roman city of Arles, a fortified town listed by Unesco as world heritage, during a self-guided walking tour of the historic center.

Housed in a listed 15th-century manor, the Fondation Van Gogh is a must-see, as much for the architecture as the art (open from Tuesday to Sunday from 11am to 6pm, Monday openings in summer only). Architectural highlights include the rooftop terrace and the coloured-glass bookshop ceiling.

Do not miss the Luma foundation (opened from 11 am to 6 pm) and the Parc des Ateliers, an experimental interdisciplinary art campus, which represents with the Arles Photo Festival in summer the new face of the contemporary Arles.

Arles’ Saturday market is also a must to do. Shady squares and plenty of Camarguais culture make Arles an important step between the Rhône river delta and the Camargue natural park.

Accommodation: Hotel & Spa Le Calendal | Double room, Arles

Welcome to Carcassonne!

Hidden behind its ramparts and protected by 52 towers, the upper town of Carcassonne is the largest fortified city in Europe! Countless are the vestiges of the past of the city and of this region that you can discover during a walk.

Gallo-Roman and medieval fortifications such as the 12th-century chateau comtal or the Saint-Nazaire basilica are all witnesses of a rich past.

The city also invites you to enjoy your time on a café terrace around the Place Marcou or to stroll along the streets lined with shops.

In the summer, the Carcassonne festival and the medieval performances complete the attraction of the city.

Come and discover the city of Carcassonne!

The city was annexed to the royal domain during the Albigensian Crusade.

The City has successively been a protohistoric site, a Gallo-Roman city, a Visigothic stronghold, a county, then a viscounty, and finally a royal seneschal’s office. Each stage, between the Roman period and the end of the Middle Ages, has left its mark on the buildings that make it up.

Information:

Private guided tour of the city of Carcassonne with a local expert guide

Option for an additional visit to the Château Comtal with your guide (7.5 euros per person to be paid on-site).

Arrival in Toulouse

Welcome to the “pink city”!

Toulouse, nicknamed the “Pink City” because of the characteristic color of its terracotta bricks, is an emblematic city in southwest France. Nestled between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, this dynamic metropolis is a captivating blend of history, modernity and the gentle pace of life. With its rich architectural heritage, key role in aeronautics and space, and vibrant Occitan culture, Toulouse embodies both tradition and innovation.

It is an unmissable destination for lovers of authentic, warm-hearted discoveries of France’s “midi” region.

Return the rented car to the nearest rental office at the agreed time.

Accommodation : Les Capitouls | Double room, Toulouse

Discover Toulouse

Toulouse rightly deserves its name as the Ville Rose (the pink city). The pink brick of its buildings and residences gives the city an undeniable charm.

Renowned for its atmosphere, Toulouse is also a city of art and history with an important architectural and artistic heritage beautifully preserved over the centuries. Toulouse is the wealthiest city in France in terms of Renaissance mansions. Among the most beautiful Renaissance buildings in the town is the Hôtel d’Assézat which today houses the Bemberg Foundation, a private museum hosting a collection of paintings; the Hôtel de Bernuy, flanked by an octagonal tower; the Vieux-Raisin hotel; Clary’s hotel or Pierre’s hotel.

An essential square, the Place du Capitole is the heart of the city. This lively square is surrounded by beautiful buildings, such as the Capitol, a 16th-century building housing the Town Hall and the Theater. At the rear of this prestigious eight-column building is a 16th-century keep, the old Archives tower, which is today the seat of the tourist office.

The attractive banks of the Garonne river, particularly the Henri Martin promenade and the Daurade district, are suitable for strolling and sunbathing.

The lively streets of the historic center are dotted with a large number of cafes and shops. It is ideal for shopping or drinking at one of the many outdoor cafes. In Toulouse, revelers and lovers of outings have something to celebrate with the multiple restaurants, theaters, concert halls, bars, pubs and nightclubs. In addition, as soon as night falls, the buildings, monuments, and houses of the old town are adorned with pretty lights—a superb ”by night” enhancement of the beauty of Toulouse’s heritage.

Toulouse Gourmet Ebike tour

Immerse yourself in the heart of the pink city, during this Ebike tour with your guide, discovering Saint Sernin and the Canal du Midi, both Unesco World Heritage sites, as well as the banks of the Garonne, the Place du Capitole and the fountains, for a visit to the city’s must-see monuments and squares.

Includes: bike rental + private tour of Toulouse with a guide.

GEN TGV Train ticket 2nd class I Trainline

TGV train journey (2nd class, semi-flex cancelation option) from the departure train station to your next location!

This is the end of your trip, all the team wishes you a great journey back home!

We hope you had a good time in France.

Au revoir et à bientôt !