Discover Provence including Avignon & Arles

Upon arrival in Marseille or Nîmes airport, we will be met and transferred to our hotel, located in the city of Arles, on the Rhône River.

Please note: 1 evening meal is included at the hotel during our stay.

Let’s begin our holiday with a guided tour of Arles, taking in this colourful and vibrant city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an inspiration for many paintings of its famous resident, Van Gogh. We will have a walking tour of the city, exploring the Arena (Amphitheatre) and the Roman Theatre.

In the afternoon, we will continue our excursion and visit Aigues Mortes, a medieval walled city with beautifully preserved houses, cobblestone streets, gothic style churches, lots of cafés, and shops selling local souvenirs like nougat and ‘gardian’ hats. 

Take today to relax and see some of Arles’ top attractions, such as  Eglise St-Trophime or The Van Gogh Heritage museum to learn more about the artist time spent here. Enjoy the city at your own pace, explore further in the charming historic centre or take a stroll along the Rhone river. The choice is yours.

Join us as we uncover the highlights of Avignon, which was home to the Popes from 1309-1377. In this medieval city, we’ll visit the Pope's Palace (Palais des Papes), where we can admire the gothic towers and their splendour. The Avignon bridge, which once crossed the Rhône, was built in the 12th Century. Only four of the twenty-two original sections of the bridge remain today.

Later today, we will travel to Les Baux de Provence, known to be one of the most beautiful villages in France, with its small squares, terraces and narrow streets. The town also offers a panoramic view over Arles and the Carmague.

Today, let's discover more, with the rich Roman heritage of Nîmes on a guided walking tour through this historic city. We will start at the Arenas of Nîmes, a remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheatre dating back to the 1st century, once hosting gladiator battles and still used today for concerts and events. Next, we will visit the Square House (Maison Carrée), an elegant Roman temple that stands as one of the best-preserved in the world, offering a glimpse into ancient architectural grandeur. We will conclude the tour with a visit to the Tour Magne, an ancient tower perched atop Mont Cavalier, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.

In the afternoon, let's explore the awe-inspiring Pont du Gard on a guided tour of this ancient Roman aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built during the 1st century AD, this three-tiered engineering masterpiece once carried water to the city of Nîmes. As we walk along the bridge, our guide will reveal this monumental structure's history and impressive construction techniques. Set in the scenic countryside along the Gardon River, the Pont du Gard offers not only a journey into Roman history but also breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty. 

Enjoy another day of leisure to explore your surroundings and see why the French like to spend their own holidays in this charming place. Sample some of the local foods, go on a hike,  have  a picnic on the river bank or browse  the  Art Galleries and bookstores. Check with your guide during your Day 5 excursion, for directions and suggestions on the places to visit.

Make the most of your final free day in this charming beguiling small city, with some relaxed sightseeing. Enjoy a morning coffee at a pavement café or an evening aperitif with some local olives, as you savour the unique and special atmosphere of Provence.

We bid farewell to unforgettable Provence and transfer to the airport with guide assistance for our flight home.