Your journey begins in the enchanting town of Aix-en-Provence, a place where history, culture, and natural beauty unite. Take some time to relax and settle in, as this will be your home away from home for the entire week.

With its historic architecture, splashing fountains, and lively markets, it’s easy to adore Aix. As the birthplace of the great artist Paul Cézanne, Aix is also a haven for art lovers and history buffs alike.

Gather with the rest of the group for a welcome drink and an orientation. Meet your fellow travelers and learn about what’s coming up in the week ahead.

This morning you are off to the charming town of Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for Roman monuments dating back to the 1st century B.C. A local guide will lead you through the historic streets, sharing fascinating stories of Arles' rich past.

Back in Aix, you can use the afternoon to explore the Caumont Art Center, a gorgeous 18th-century mansion with beautiful gardens and changing art exhibits. Whether you're into classical masterpieces or contemporary works, there's something for everyone. Feel free to visit this art center on your own. 

Maybe you just want to linger in a cafe and watch Aix life roll by. You do you.

Meet up with your guide for a foodie walking tour in the historical center of Aix. Taste some of the region’s best local specialties and enjoy the flavors of Provence.

After the foodie tour, you might be full enough to skip lunch, or you can use your free time to grab a more formal lunch on your own.

Your tour leader will introduce you to Provençal shops such as L’Occitane and Soleiado.

In the afternoon, we will visit Cezanne’s Workshop (the post-Impressionist painter) for a guided tour.

After breakfast, you'll embark on a scenic drive to Marseille, a vibrant port city known for its rich history, architecture, and Mediterranean charm.

Your first stop is the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde, a basilica perched high on a hilltop overlooking the city. The spectacular panoramic views offer sweeping vistas of the Mediterranean coastline, the Old Port, and the city's historic neighborhoods. Take a moment to admire the imposing gold statue of the Virgin Mary at the top of the basilica which has long been the symbol of protection for sailors.

Our next stop focuses on the unique local tradition of soap-making with a visit to Savonnerie La Licorne, one of the oldest soap producers in the region. Here, you’ll learn about the famous olive oil-based Marseille soap (Savon de Marseille), an authentic product with centuries of history and a great gift to take home with you.

A hands-on workshop this morning teaches you how to create your own lavender wand, a fragrant talisman steeped in history and tradition.

Enjoy some traditional Provençal cuisine during today's group lunch.

This afternoon includes a special experience at Carrière des Lumières in Les Baux-de-Provence—prepare to be wowed! Step inside a former quarry that has been transformed into an immersive art show where Masterpieces by Van Gogh, Monet, Chagall, and other iconic artists come to life with light, sound, and color.

The evening is yours. Dinner on your own.

Our first stop is the Lavender Museum in Cabrières-d'Avignon. Learn all about how lavender is grown and distilled into wonderful products as you take an aromatic journey around this lovely stone farmhouse turned museum and store. Lavender fields extend all around the farm.

Look around the Gordes market and enjoy some lunch on your own. The town has a handful of charming cafés and bistros tucked into its charming cobbled streets. Whether you’re craving a crisp salad, a simple omelette, or a classic Provençal dish, you’ll find something to satisfy your appetite.

This evening, we have a special dinner planned at one of the town’s top restaurants. This is the time to toast to the adventures of the week, the memories you’ve made, and the new friends you’ve met along the way.