Top Provence Historical Tours

Avignon, the heart of Provence, is to french history what the Vatican city is to Rome. Situated on the bank of the River Rhône, it looks and feels like the backdrop of a medieval fairy tale. It is famously known for the 14th-century seat of the Papacy and its 12th-century-old bridge. Recognized for its ecclesiastical architecture, and historic importance, the centre of Avignon was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city has a lot to offer beyond history. You will be greeted by the picturesque views of the river Rhone, plenty of bars, cafés, and restaurants. As you stroll through the streets of Avignon, you will be fascinated by the old alleys, the courtyards, and the restored facades. You will learn about: Since the Neolithic period Bishop of Avignon Kingdom of Arles Holy Roman Empire Avignon Papacy Kings of France French Revolution Treaty of Tolentino Annual Festival d'Avignon

France’s oldest city, Marseille is also one of the most fascinating cities in France. Founded in 600BC by the Greek settlers, today it is the second largest city in the country. It’s one million inhabitants have made it a true melting pot of cultures and ethnicities. We will aim to break any prejudices by giving you a glimpse of this city’s past history, recent events and exiting future. Today’s Marseille is what a roman city would be in its time: colorful, multi-ethnical, and filled with so much History it’s writings can be read along the roads. From Caesars to the Middle Ages, from the Count of Monte Cristo to World War II, we will provide an unforgettable journey along the bustling streets of Marseille. You will learn about: The city's history and architecture Foundation of Marseille by the greeks The Roman Empire Rise of the city into a major port and cultural center The Marseille Mafia French Revolution Second World War and the Nazis Why it is cosmopolitan modern city

In the heart of Provence, Aix-en-Provence is best known for being the birth place of Paul Cézanne. First founded in 123 BC, this city grew in importance during the roman times, becoming the capital of Provence in the Middle Ages and today it is the modern center for Justice and of the Arts. With us you will trace the steps of most important painters of the 19th century, contemplate life in medieval Aix and get intrigued by the French resistance against the Nazi occupation. All sprinkled with hidden jewels in the form of elegant fountains, picturesque courtyards, and inspired architecture. You will learn about: Pre-roman pagan influence The roman foundations of the old town The famous artist Paul Cezanne The foundation of Aix The provincial 17th and 18th century flair of the Cours Mirabeau The part played by the many fountains The rise of the gothic style in 13th century France Count King René Brasserie Les Deux Garçons! and Cézanne, Lamartine or Ernest Hemingway.

Marseille • Gay Tour & Cours Julien's Secrets Marseille by Night • Gay Tour • Gay or Lesbian Friendly Tour Guide and/or Driver • Every Entrance Fee or Tasting described in the program

See Provence’s major highlights, and tailor your itinerary to suit your interests, on this full-day, private tour. Don’t worry about logistics: meet your guide directly at your accommodation or port in the morning, and travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan. Choose between several different itineraries: discover Avignon and the Luberon region; visit Arles and the rugged Alpilles; or venture to Marseille, Cassis, and Aix-en-Provence. As you go, learn more about the sights from your driver’s commentary.

This Experience is provided by a private local. Discover the historical side of Marseille with a passionate local who wants to share all the historical and fun facts about Marseille. Our excursion starts at the cathedral of Marseille. Learn about how the city has grown and changed over time. From visiting the churches to discovering the history behind the the Place Castellane or even the Notre-Dame de la Garde, discover unique sites that your ordinary tourist tour won’t show you. We always knew travelling was the best way of learning, but having a knowledgeable Local by your side to give you insider tips and share local secrets is even better! Of course, if you want to learn about something in particular or have a special interest, just let me know and I will adjust the itinerary for you!

This Experience is provided by a private local. Find out the different cultural and artistic characteristics that makes this city unique, and enjoy the buzzing community and city ambience! Whether you are visiting Marseille as a returning tourist who wants to get to know the city a bit better, or if this is your first time, this Experience is for you! While walking the streets of Marseille and looking at the amazing, unique street art, or getting to know more about the city’s galleries and museums, you will hear about street-art artists as well as contemporary artists and their close connection to Marseille. I will share with you the art and cultural world of my city, where you will see, hear, and experience how colorful and multifaceted Marseille is!

This Experience is provided by a private local. Discover Marseille during a short but sweet 90-minute walking excursion, which will tell you all you need to know about the city, local lifestyle and its unique culture. We will meet in front of the near the old harbor in the heart of Marseille. While going through the city center and interesting places and stories about Marseille , I will tell you insider stories about my city and France, while showing you all the beautiful spots and important sites. During our walk in the beautiful city of Marseille you will learn all about the local lifestyle and trends, and get an insight of the country's customs and traditions. This is also your chance to get insider tips about the best cafes, restaurants and bars to visit, and learn how to make the most out of your stay in Marseille.

This Experience is provided by a private local. Discover the most impressive buildings in Marseille and learn about the history behind each of those historical buildings and structures in this invigorating architectural walk! Join me on this adventure to discover the beauty and history of the city's most significant buildings and find out a bit more about the local culture in France from my perspective! During this walk, you will become better acquainted with the local architecture and at the same time, you will learn how it has changed over the years with the city becoming more contemporary while still retaining its unique character. There are a lot of different types of architecture clashing with each other, but at the same time it gives the city a charm, that is impossible to reproduce anywhere else!

Indulge in the rich gastronomy and vibrant art of Provence on this full-day tour of the Alpilles regional park from Avignon. Sample local specialties and homemade chocolates as you browse the market of St Rémy de Provence, then enjoy a tour and tasting at a traditional olive mill. Journey through the landscapes that inspired Van Gogh, then visit the hilltop village of Les Baux de Provence to experience a modern twist on classic art – the Carrières de Lumières. Finally, tuck into a delicious lunch (included), prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

Immerse yourself in local life as you roam the lush landscapes, rolling hills and picturesque villages of the Luberon National Park on this full-day small-group tour from Avignon. Mingle with the locals and sample regional specialties like wine and honey as you browse the village markets in Gordes or Roussillon. Then, keep your camera to hand as you journey through the lavender fields to the Senanque Abbey and follow the ochre path of Roussillon, before winding your way back to Avignon.

Short on time? See the best bits of Provence on this full-day small-group tour of the region’s most photogenic spots. Drive through rolling vineyards and vast lavender fields, stopping to enjoy views of the Fontaine de Vaucluse and Senanque Abbey. Explore the hilltop villages of Gordes and Roussillon, and take a walking tour of Saint Rémy de Provence, once home to both Nostradamus and Van Gogh. Finally, see the UNESCO-listed Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard and look out over the hills of the Alpilles from Les Baux de Provence.

Travel through the pages of Peter Mayle’s 'A Year in Provence' as you discover the Provencal villages of Luberon, Gordes and Roussillon on this 5-hour small-group tour from Avignon. Get a taste of local-life as you stroll the hilltop villages and capture the breath-taking scenery with photo stops at the Marque de Sade’s castle, Lacoste village and Senanque Abbey. After a scenic drive through Provence’s famous lavender fields (in bloom from June-August), learn all about the prize crop at the Lavender Museum (entrance included).

There’s so much waiting for you to explore at McArthurGlen Provence. With 110 boutiques, delicious dining and designer brands from 30% less all year long, it’s destined to be a day to remember. Located in the heart of Provence, at only 40 minutes from Aix-en-Provence and Avignon, you are guaranteed to find something special from brands like Sandro, Maje, Claudie Pierlot, Karl Lagerfeld, L’Occitane en Provence and many more French and International brands. Enjoy an extra 10% off outlet prices and a special welcome glass of rose at Chateau la Coste restaurant. After lunch, you will discover the beauty of Les Alpilles in les Baux-de-Provence, the heart of Les Alpilles, and the beautiful Provencal village of Maussane with a visit and an olive oil tasting.

Discover the beauty of the Natural Park of Les Alpilles in half a day. Walk in Saint-Remy-de-Provence and his Provencal city center and enjoy the market on Wednesday. Admire the panoramic view of les Baux-de-Provence, the village overlooking the Alpilles. Taste some amazing olive oil (tasting included) in a beautiful domain. On the way back, photo stop at the Romanesque Chapel Ste Sixte.

Be inspired by Van Gogh’s Provence on this 5-hour small-group tour from Avignon and learn how the region’s extraordinary light affected his work. See the real-life locations depicted in Van Gogh’s ‘Starry Night Over the Rhone’ and ‘Café Terrace’ as you explore historic Arles, then visit Saint Rémy de Provence where the troubled artist was hospitalized for over a year. Finally, see works by Van Gogh and other iconic artists at the unique Carrières de Lumières, a multimedia art installation housed in an old quarry.

Liven up a day of sightseeing with fine wine and delicious chocolates as you journey around Provence on this full-day tour from Avignon. Visit the magnificent Roman theatre of Orange, see the UNESCO-listed Pont du Gard aqueduct and trace the footsteps of Van Gogh in Saint Rémy de Provence. Look out over the Alpilles from the hilltop village of Les Baux de Provence, then pair regional wines with homemade chocolates at a special tasting workshop in Châteauneuf du Pape.

Discover the Provence of old and journey back to Roman times on this half-day small-group tour of Uzès and Nîmes from Avignon. See the Roman temple of Maison Carrée and the great amphitheater of Nimes, then stroll around the medieval monuments of Uzès. Finally, stand in awe before the towering Pont du Gard aqueduct, a remarkable feat of Roman engineering and now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

With our driver-guide enjoy a full day tour in Luberon from Marseille to Isles sur la Sorgues, Gordes, Roussillon and Lourmarin villages. Discover the highlights of Provence, antique market and Luberon park hilltop villages, following the lavender road.

Plan a retreat into Provence’s interior—and explore the centuries-old villages of the Luberon region—on this small-group, full-day tour. Leave the logistics and driving to your guide on this stress-free excursion. You’ll have free time to explore L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (famed for its antique markets), Gordes (frequented by artists and celebrities), Roussillon (known for its ochre buildings and rock formations), and Lourmarin (said to be one of France’s most beautiful villages).

Just up the French Riviera from Marseilles, Cassis is a charming little port town characterized by narrow lanes and traditional Provencal architecture. With this half-day tour from Marseilles, you'll get the chance to explore Cassis without having to worry about sorting out your own transportation, as round-trip transfers from Marseilles are included.

Referred to as the little Saint-Tropez of Provence, the former fishing village of Cassis is easily reached from central Marseille. This small-group tour gets you there by air-conditioned minivan for a half-day exploration. You’ll have free time to spend in the UNESCO-listed town before a drive to its national park for views over the sea (entrance fee included).

Plan a stress-free visit to the UNESCO World Heritage of Cassis on a morning tour with round-trip transport from Aix-en-Provence. After enjoying free time in Cassis to relax on the beach, grab a coffee, or take a boat cruise (own expenses), stop at Europe’s highest sea cliff for panoramic views of Cape Canaille. The tour's small group size ensures a personal experience.

Explore Avignon, the medieval pope city in the 14th century during this 4 hours tour. Discover Avignon medieval center during 1-hour walking guided tour before to visit the Pope palace on your own (1 hour). Return to Aix en Provence.