Southern France by Train: Provence & the Riviera
SEMI-GUIDED (10 days, no overnight trains) From Provence to the French Riviera by train, enjoy gourmet moments, vineyard landscapes, and charming old towns. Stay each night in selected 4-star hotels.
(FRANCE) PARIS – AVIGNON (Provence) – ARLES – AIX-EN-PROVENCE – MARSEILLE – NICE (French Riviera)
Langue: English
Tour properties: Individual
DAY 1: AVIGNON : Medieval Heritage and Papal Power
Additional stay in Paris: upon request.
Direct Train from Paris : 2h40
Begin your Southern France rail journey with a direct high-speed train from Paris to Avignon (2h40).
You arrive in the heart of Provence, in a city famous for its medieval walls, narrow cobblestone streets, and the imposing Palais des Papes — one of Europe’s most extraordinary Gothic landmarks.
Visit the Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former seat of the papacy in the 14th century.
Explore the Pont Saint-Bénézet, known worldwide as the “Pont d’Avignon,” offering superb views over the Rhône River.
Enjoy a leisurely walk inside the preserved old town surrounded by its medieval ramparts.
Optional: A guided introduction to the best Provencal specialties, including cheeses, olive-based recipes, sweets, and regional wines.
Overnight in Avignon (BB) – Hotel De Cambis 4* or similar.
DAY 2: AVIGNON – ARLES (Roman Splendor & Artistic Legacy)
After breakfast, take a short regional train to Arles, one of the most atmospheric cities in Provence (Train : 20 min).
Arles is renowned for its exceptionally preserved Roman architecture and its connection to Vincent van Gogh.
Stroll through the Roman Amphitheatre, wander the narrow streets of the historic center, and continue toward the Espace Van Gogh, where the artist once stayed.
Optional: Guided walking tour focusing on Roman heritage and Van Gogh’s footsteps.
Overnight in Arles (BB) – Maison Volver 4* or similar.
DAY 3: ARLES – AIX-EN-PROVENCE (Provençal Elegance)
After breakfast, board your train to Aix-en-Provence (Train : approx. 1h).
Aix is an elegant Provençal city famous for its fountains, mansions, and lively markets.
Walk along the Cours Mirabeau, lined with plane trees and cafés, and visit the Atelier de Cézanne, where the painter created some of his masterpieces.
Optional: Food market tour or wine tasting in the Côtes de Provence.
Overnight in Aix-en-Provence (BB) – Negrecoste Hôtel Spa 4* or similar.
DAY 4: AIX-EN-PROVENCE (Art, Markets & Provençal Lifestyle)
Free day dedicated to exploring Aix at your own pace.
Discover the historic quarter with its charming medieval streets, browse local markets, or enjoy a quiet moment in one of the city’s leafy squares.
Visit the Granet Museum, featuring works from Cézanne, Ingres, and Picasso.
You may also explore the stately Mazarin District, known for its harmonious architecture.
Overnight in Aix-en-Provence (BB) – Negrecoste Hôtel Spa 4* or similar.
DAY 5: AIX-EN-PROVENCE – MARSEILLE (Gateway to the Mediterranean)
In the late morning, take a short train to Marseille (Train : 30 min).
Drop your luggage at the hotel and begin exploring France’s oldest city, a vibrant blend of cultures on the shores of the Mediterranean.
Walk around the Vieux-Port, admire the fishing boats, browse local shops, and taste fresh seafood.
Continue toward Le Panier, the colorful historic district filled with narrow alleyways and artisan boutiques.
Overnight in Marseille (BB) – Radisson Blu 4* or similar.
DAY 6: MARSEILLE (Panoramic Views & Seaside Wonders)
After breakfast, head to Notre-Dame de la Garde, perched above the sea and offering one of the finest panoramas of the Mediterranean coastline.
On arrival at Marseille Saint-Charles train station, your driver will be waiting to take you to the hotel.
Learn about Marseille’s maritime history at the Mucem, a striking modern museum at the port’s entrance.
Optional: Cruise to the Calanques between Marseille and Cassis, a spectacular natural area of dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters.
Overnight in Marseille (BB) – Radisson Blu 4* or similar.
DAY 7: MARSEILLE – NICE (French Riviera landscapes)
Board your regional train for a beautiful coastal journey from Marseille to Nice (Train : approx. 2h40).
This route follows the Mediterranean shoreline, passing beaches, rocky coves, and elegant seaside towns.
Arrive in Nice, capital of the French Riviera, known for its Italian-inspired architecture, relaxed atmosphere, and vibrant markets.
Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, explore the Old Town (Vieux-Nice), and enjoy a sunset by the sea.
Overnight in Nice (BB) – Hotel Villa Victoria or similar.
DAY 8: NICE (Riviera charm and Italian flair)
Free day dedicated to discovering Nice.
Visit the Cours Saleya market, the Matisse Museum, or the Castle Hill viewpoint overlooking the Baie des Anges.
Wander the narrow streets of Vieux-Nice and discover its Baroque churches and colorful façades.
Optional: Local food tour featuring Niçoise specialties like socca and pissaladière.
Overnight in Nice (BB) – Hotel Villa Victoria or similar.
DAY 9: NICE (Excursions on the Coast)
Use this day for easy train excursions along the Riviera.
All are direct and extremely scenic:
– Villefranche-sur-Mer (7 min): one of the most beautiful bays in the Mediterranean
– Antibes (20 min): medieval ramparts, Picasso Museum
– Cannes (30 min): luxury boutiques, sandy beaches, film festival palace
– Monaco (20 min): palace, gardens, and panoramic views
Return to Nice in the evening.
Overnight in Nice (BB) – Hôtel Apollinaire 4* or similar
DAY 10: NICE – END OF TOUR
Your Southern France rail tour ends after breakfast.
Train journeys or flights from Nice to Paris or Canada can be arranged upon request.
Additional nights in Nice are available.
In 4* hotel
Price in double/twin room: from €1950 / person
Single supplement: Upon request
Departure point: Avignon
End point: Nice
Additional travel to these cities will be offered in your quote.
PRICE INCLUDES
- Accommodation in carefully selected 4-star hotels, twin or double room, breakfast included
- All train journeys mentioned in the itinerary (standard class)
- Private transfer upon arrival in Marseille from the station to the hotel
- All walking excursions in English-speaking small groups as listed in the day-by-day program
- A detailed digital travel handbook, including train schedules, station guidance, maps, and restaurant suggestions
- Access to our local support team throughout the trip
- Taxes and service charges
OPTIONAL SERVICES (Upon Request)
- Round-trip flight or long-distance train before or after the tour
- Airport ↔ hotel transfers
- Additional hotel ↔ station transfers (except Marseille, already included), noting that all selected hotels are within a 10-minute walk from the station
- Additional hotel nights before or after the itinerary
- Fully private excursions or guided city tours
- Upgrade to First Class on selected train segments
PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE
- Meals not mentioned in the program
- Tips and personal expensesComprehensive travel insurance
- Comprehensive travel insurance
