Discover the highlights and authentic neighborhoods in 3 great towns located west of the amazing French Riviera and in the hinterland of Provence. Explore the splendid rocky coves called calanques by boat, visit open-air markets, fishing villages, little ports and coastal cliffs while enjoying great Mediterranean cuisine.
Founded by the Greeks 2,600 years ago, Marseille is the oldest city in France. This rebel maritime city is a stunning beauty and a fascinating melting pot of people from all over the world. You will enjoy a spectacular 360° view of the city from Notre-Dame de la Garde and discover the oldest neighborhood in France, le Panier, full of artists, ceramic and figurine workshops. You’ll also visit the Old Port and the fish market and learn the secrets of the famous Bouillabaisse fish soup. Walk along the ramparts of Fort St-Jean and cross the super-modern footbridge to the MuCEM, the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations.
Next, you’ll be taken north to Aix-en-Provence, a cultural and artistic haven with lively morning markets to visit the St. Sauveur Cathedral, and one of Cezanne’s favorite hilltop painting spots. While wandering through the old town, you’ll taste some local specialties such as "calissons", biscuits and nougats.
The last stop will be the picturesque town of Cassis, where you'll enjoy breathtaking views from one of the highest maritime cliffs in Europe, Cap Canaille, then drive along the fantastic Crest Road. Take a walk around the little port with fishing and tourist boats and choose to end the day with a bang: enjoy a splendid 45-minute boat tour of the calanques of Cassis!