This guided tour offers you a complete immersion in the heart of Provence, where Mediterranean landscapes and picturesque villages converge. From Marseille, a thousand-year-old city bordered by the sea, to Aix-en-Provence, a city of art and light, via Allauch, a small gem perched in the hills, each stop will transport you to an authentic and charming Provence.
Your journey begins in Aix-en-Provence, a city with timeless charm and the birthplace of the famous painter Paul Cézanne. We will immerse ourselves in the city's rich history by walking through its cobbled streets, admiring its many fountains that have earned it the nickname 'the city of a thousand fountains', and visiting iconic monuments such as the Saint-Sauveur Cathedral, a fascinating blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles. You will also have the opportunity to discover Cezanne's studio, where the artist painted some of his major works, and to imagine Provence through his eyes.
After Aix-en-Provence, head for Allauch, a charming village perched above the city and offering an exceptional panoramic view of the Mediterranean. Be enchanted by the peaceful atmosphere of this typical Provencal village, its streets lined with old houses, its windmills and its green hillsides. Allauch is a haven of peace where time seems to stand still. A stroll through its paths, scented with the fragrance of the garrigue, will lead you to magnificent vantage points over the surrounding countryside. The village is also home to the Church of Sainte-Trophime, a jewel of simplicity, and age-old traditions that we will discuss, such as the live nativity scene during the Christmas season.
Finally, we will take the road towards Marseille, a vibrant and cosmopolitan city. We'll start with the Old Port, the symbol of the city, where fishing boats stand alongside modern yachts, before climbing the hill to the basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, the true protector of sailors and residents, from where you'll enjoy a breathtaking view of the entire Bay of Marseille and the Frioul Islands. On our way back down, we will explore the historic district of Le Panier, the oldest in the city. Its narrow, colorful streets, its facades adorned with street art, and its small shaded squares will offer you a timeless break. You'll also discover hidden gems, such as the Vieille Charité, a former Baroque almshouse that has become a cultural center.
This day is a true ode to Provence, combining the bustle of the city, the calm of the hilltop villages, and the artistic and cultural history that permeates every street and every landscape. Through these three destinations, you will experience the soul of the region and its rich heritage.
