Flying into Marseille 3 days prior to a river cruise departing from Avignon. The cruise includes 1 1/2 days in Avignon and 1 day in Arles. I was thinking of spending the 3 days prior in Aux-en-Provence, but not so sure now from reading this forum. I prefer not to have to rent a car, so where should I stay? Stick with Aux-en-Provence? I don't necessarily need big attractions as those will come later in Lyon, Dijon, Paris and not interested in Nice or Marseille.
Thank you!!
garvin,
Any chance of getting a day tour from Aix to Les Baux, if it's not on your cruise tour? There are Luberon village tours. The town of Aix has markets, the cathedral Saint Sauveur, sipping a coffee or aperitif on Cours Mirabeau. There is also the Cezanne connection.
A car would help, but I see tours from the town to nearby attractions, as well as food/wine tasting tours. When will you be there? If late June or July the lavender should be in bloom.
Avignon is the transportation hub of western Provence, it is easy to visit a number of locations from there using public transportation. Such as: Nimes, Pont du Gard, L'Isle sur la Sorgue, les Beaux de Provence, or St Rémy, sufficiently interesting locations to occupy 4 to 5 days.
I would go to Avignon early and take advantage of its central location.
I m in Nimes. So, yes, from Avignon you have lots of tours you can take or just rent a car and go around. If you like history, there’s a lot to visit : Uzes, Nimes, Arles, Grau du Roi (and Camargues). As someone said you can also visit the villages in the Luberon area too.
The three main towns of Aix, Arles and Avignon are your easy candidates on the main train line. I think Aix would serve you pretty well, and would be an easy enough place to get to after arriving in Marseille. Arles would be my second choice, it has some actual quality sights and is pleasant enough for a few nights. Aside from its logistical convenience, Avignon has little to offer imo.
With a little searching, you should be able to find some small group day tours in the area from any of these towns. These are a great way to fill the transportation gap and cover sights in the countryside.
Thank you everyone for your input!!! Leaning on staying the three days in Aix and maybe taking a day trip from there.
You didn’t give your dates but hopefully you’ll be able to see this major Cezanne exhibit while in Aix. Book your tickets in advance. June 28th to October 12th.
Cezanne is being celebrated in Aix in 2025 with events the whole year.
