Provence rick steves

Provence rick steves. It is well known for art, beautiful towns, Roman ruins, outdoor markets, and proximity to the coast. Ricks book on Provence describes great car based travel in this area and we will be close enough to explore some great Rhone wine areas like the village of Chateauneuf de Papes. It's just a wealthy town filled with 140,000 smartly dressed people, including 40,000 students who give the city a year-round youthful energy. We spent a lovely week based in Lourmarin. 11294 posts. 2553 posts. Many lavender fields nearby as well as other delightful towns, markets, food. But to explore the region at all you’ll need 4 days to a week minimum. I've read a lot about Aix-en-Provence, Arles, and Avignon, but just don't know which would be a good place to visit for 1-2 nights. (81) In Stock. Just returned from a 9 day trip to Provence and 5 nights in Paris. Feb 21, 2009 · 1. Posted by Harold. I believe that some of the artists actually created their works right on the spot, while in residence. I would recommend Arles or, with a car, St. I have been reading a lot of mixed ideas and opinions on renting a car vs. de Temmerman, 1995). It's not very touristy, which can be really nice. 16893 posts. Rick Steves makes them all sound ideal! Dec 5, 2022 · The driving time is estimated at about 2-1/2 hours each way, and Google is often optimistic. Since I research so often on this site I want to offer any help in this report to someone else that might be planning a trip to France. Where should we spend our timeMarseille sounds wonderful but according to your book Jul 1, 2013 · Aix en Provence and Marseilles are very different experiences. Our family (including two kids, ages 10 and 14) will now be traveling to France for 16 days next April, and I was hoping to get some input regarding our proposed itinerary. It’s actually a good base. I travel, typically leaving on Thanksgiving and return 17 days after. Apr 14, 2015 · Rick Steves' Europe. During this time, Avignon grew from a sleepy village into a thriving city. It arrives in Athens at 22:30. Jul 28, 2009 · I recommend Arles as a great homebase for Provence. Jump to top. THURSDAY - Avignon (I have read that this seems to need an entire day or at least a half day). Mike. Jan 1, 2003 · "Provence is littered with Roman ruins. Otherwise, a taxi to Aix is about 60€, perhaps 70. For nearly 100 years Avignon was the capital of Christendom, home to seven popes. (photo: Rick Steves) Clinging to a bend in the Rhône River in the south of France, Avignon looks and feels like the backdrop of a medieval fairy tale. Recommendations for places to stay in Cassis, Arles, Nimes, Avignon and Vasion- La- Romaine would be appreciated. Bay Area. A delightful blend of natural and man-made beauty, France offers chandeliered châteaux, forever May 17, 2022 · I'm afraid the info above is not correct, there is no train to Aix en Provence from Marseille airport or Vitrolles station. A to Z of French Food, a French to English Dictionary of Culinary Terms (G. And Aix's numerous squares, lined with cafés and fine shops, allow everyone a By Rick Steves and Steve Smith In the heart of the Luberon region of Provence, canyons and ridgelines rule, and land developers take a back seat. Oct 31, 2014 · You are in such a lovely town and using it as a base to tour Provence and Luberon regions is wonderful. In 2015, or maybe it was 2014, we stayed in Avignon and had two full days for day trips before moving on to Torino. Oct 10, 2014 · Jump to bottom. Optimal choice would depend on how the schedules fit together. 07/03/14 11:15 AM. Have you checked out Rick Steve's Guide to Provence? When I had a one night stay in Aix I stayed in a place he recommended and it was affordable. Posted by JS. I suggest you look at Avignon as a base for visiting western Provence and the Camargue. Apr 13, 2017 · MONDAY - Pick up car from Avignon and head to our base in St Remy - late afternoon and evening in St. This topic has been automatically closed due to a period of inactivity. By Rick Steves. First trip to Provence, but have been to Avignon and Arles on previous trips. Remy, L'Orange, Pont du Gard, Châteauneuf du Pape, and a chocolate factory. 3313 posts. We will have approximately 10 hrs to tour. I'm sorry I can't remember the name, but it was in the city center and the owner was so helpful getting me to the hotel. Posted by Susan. Oct 28, 2011 · Posted by Kelly. You can count on Rick Steves to tell you what you really need to know when traveling in Provence and the French Riviera. Nov 18, 2022 · Which would be the better choice: Atlanta to Paris 3 hr layover then catch a flight to Marseille arriving at 2pm. Nimes, Avignon and the surrounding fields of Sunflowers, wine and Sun are just a few minutes drive away. I have not stayed there but plan to on my next trip to that area of France. To learn more about France past and present, and specifically Provence and the French Riviera, check out a few of these books and films. com/europe/france/provence In this video, we'll travel to France's Provence region to explore the P Feb 9, 2024 · You can catch a direct TGV train from Aix-en-Provence TGV station to Antibes. 05/02/14 02:34 PM. This is May 11, 2018 · Then, throw open the shades and greet the world — it’s Provence! When on the road (and traveling well), each day is a cornucopia of learning, images, people, new ideas, and memories. Posted by longshadows on 03/04/24 09:04 AM. If St T is a priority, I would consider reordering your whole itinerary Interlaken > Paris > Avignon > Nice and fly home from Nice. May 29, 2018 · Posted by Jane (Franklin, TN, USA) on 05/29/18 05:29 AM. Saturnin-Les-Apt, Provence, France. In this guide, you ll find a dazzling mix of enjoyable cities, warm Apr 23, 2009 · These areas are quiet and lovely when not mobbed in high season. Posted by Kevin. Our stress-free France vacations package together small groups, great guides, central hotels, all sightseeing — and memories to last a lifetime. The Luberon is a large region with many small towns and villages. I doubt if that is the sort of day you have in mind. TUESDAY - Les Baux (we're interested in Carrieres des Lumieres) & Arles. Rick's picks for sights, eating, sleeping. Then Aix en Provence (for my money one of the best cities in France) as a base for the main inland areas of the Luberon, the lavender fields and the calanques (on the coast). I have been researching 2* hotels in Rick Steves' guidebook on Tripadvisor and am torn. Day 4- Train to Avignon. We'd like to find a good location to stay and do "day trips" either by car of train to the Rick Steves France tours provide the best value for your trip to Europe. Provence & the French Riviera Guidebook. We traveled to Avignon, Nimes and Aix-in-Provence and were very happy with our choice to stay in Arles for a week. Thank you for your responses. The ancient temple Maison Carrée is a well-preserved testament to Nîmes' former glory as a regional capital of the Roman Empire. July 20–23: Nice Jazz Festival. On our first day, we took a full day tour with Provence Panorama and visited Les Baux, St. Just avoid the major village and towns in late June to early July - aka lavander season -- and you'll avoid most of the bad behavior. 30). Oct 15, 2013 · Rick Steves has spent 100 days every year since 1973 exploring Europe. Four of us are seriously considering booking the Rick Steves winter tour for "Southern France. Share. A lot of the traffic gets contained to the main cities and most popular villages. Jan 28, 2021 · 01/28/21 01:17 PM. | CST# 2086743 Feb 10, 2015 · Hi suzanny14. We have 3 days to spend in Provence. Browse Rick's best France tours and vacation packages: Best of Paris in 7 Days Tour. Some of France's most stunning scenery and Rick’s Best Three-Week France Trip by Car. Jul 6, 2021 · Itinerary advice - Loire, Burgundy, Provence. After the tour, we plan on renting a car and staying for additional seven days. 29). Perhaps you'd like to look at a map and narrow your focus. Unfortunately, Mike never showed up at the port. Jan 30, 2024 · There is a non-stop Aegean flight at 6:55 pm (18:55) on May 11 according to their website. Will probably be taking a tour from NCL line. Apr 3, 2018 · Florida, USA. Day 7- Explore southern Luberon villages. My husband and I are taking a cruise that stops in Provence (Toulon), France. Many great restaurants. Jan 20, 2024 · 678 posts. near NY, NJ, USA. Feb 23, 2014 · I have never heard anyone say they hated the town they stayed in in Provence. We’ll have a car though and I’m wondering if we should stick with Arles or choose one of the nearby towns that look more quaint and French country to sleep. Mar 8, 2018 · 1829 posts. Williams’ Markets of Provence, a vividly written Jan 7, 2015 · Provence by public transportation. We'll be driving down from (and back to) Lyon and plan to spend five days in Provence. (photo: Steve Smith) Jan 31, 2016 · Florida (previously California) 02/01/16 08:35 AM. A hundred years ago, celebrities from London to Moscow flocked to the French Riviera to socialize, gamble, and escape the dreary weather at home. Feb 12, 2023 · 3/ LES BAUX: THE MOULIN CASTELAS FOR OIL AND FOR WELCOME You can resume the walk with the Moulin Castelas, at the foot of the Château des Baux. While this trip is doable in 22 days, most will appreciate adding an extra day here and there to rest their engine. All of these get flights from various European airports, so if connecting in Paris is not convenient, you can go via Frankfurt, London, Amsterdam, etc. I originally thought Avignon would be best, but am a little concerned about some of the general reviews on this city being 'gritty/rougher than expected'. The wines are commonly full-bodied and fruity, and are meant to be drunk when they're young. Marseilles is a gritty port city with an mélange of everything and everyone from the Inside Rick Steves Provence & the French Riviera you'll find: Fully updated, comprehensive coverage for spending a week or more exploring Provence and the Riviera Rick's strategic advice on how to get the most out of your time and money, with rankings of his must-see favorites Guidebook Updates for France. The itinerary will be posted 90 days before your departure on the SCNF website, Note the Aix TGV station is not in Aix so be prepared to catch a taxi of shuttle bus first. New York, NY, USA. P. Posted by thewelts. The town of Lourmarin is within the Luberon and makes a good base as it’s flat. If you have any chance of finding an auto transmission car it will be here. It was especially reassuring to learn from "dootle" that they had done Eastern France tour and had success getting to Marseille airport at o'dark hundred. Inspired by this hotel balcony view, I’ll slog happily through another day of research to make our Rick Steves’ France guidebook work even better for our The Magic of Aix-en-Provence. Julien the owner makes DELICIOUS meals. I have checked out Rick's Steves recommendations in the Provence and The French Riviera guide book. Jun 4, 2009 · I don't associate Provence with cheese but I Googled "cheese tasting Provence" and found a number of tour and tasting opportunities. 04/15/15 12:17 PM. Their speed is restricted along the coast between Marseille and Nice. And you can take short train rides to Arles, Nimes, Orange. Spending a couple of nights in Les Baux in a B&B this summer and looking forward to exploring the town minus the day trippers at night fall. Stroll breathtaking coastlines, explore Roman ruins, and soak up some sun in the South of France! Inside Rick Steves Provence & the French Riviera you'll find: For a tourist, Aix-en-Provence is happily free of any obligatory turnstiles. Jul 13, 2007 · I'm thinking of staying in Villefranche-Sur-Mer for 2 nights because of its close proximity to Nice and Monaco, but I'd also like to spend 1-2 nights in Provence. Book Description. I like tranquility of Isle sur la sorgue. The trip to that area would be considerably faster from Aix-en-Provence. 3551 posts. Rick produces a public television series (Rick Steves' Europe), a public radio show (Travel with Rick Steves), and an app and podcast (Rick Steves Audio Europe); writes a bestselling series of guidebooks and a nationally syndicated newspaper column; organizes guided tours that take thousands of travelers to Europe annually Jul 2, 2014 · Rick Steves' Europe. Day 6- Pick up rental car and drive to our Provence base in Menerbes. 12172 posts. I like the character of the arches of Hotel le Manoir, but it doesn't have consistent reviews. | CST# 2086743 Feb 26, 2024 · OPTION 2: Provence & Riviera. Rick seems to recommend Arles as a home base. The full price ticket for the train bought the day you depart at 88 Euros is STILL cheaper than the gas alone!! Feb 1, 2014 · You can indeed see much of the western areas of Provence by rail and some buses as Zoe has indicated. 16894 posts. After that we will train to some places and then get a rental car in Avignon. using public transportation in this region - hoping I can get some more ideas from people Oct 20, 2008 · The rental is Le Pigionnier. Posted by pabs49 on 10/10/14 06:06 AM. I really want to avoid renting a car, but it Oct 9, 2011 · Aix-en-Provence is a nice city. Aug 6, 2014 · More info about travel to Provence: http://www. For 3 years we have been ranked #1 on Tripadvisor for 'Things to do' in the Provence area, and have received over 295 'excellent' client reviews. May 19, 2019 · 4152 posts. Posted by Tina OP Novato, CA, USA. Jan 11, 2014 · About 3 hours each way, Rhone to St. I'm considering two itineraries for an 8 night trip to France, that would begin and end in Paris. When these basic ingredients are used in cooking, magic happens. In the morning on Day 4, head to Vaucluse. Our time there included the Fête de la Musique. Without a car, you should only consider Avignon. Or fly into Paris and catch the train to Avignon and spend the first night there. Dec 29, 2023 · I'm looking for advice on the best base city/town to stay for five nights in Provence (late Sept 2024). I loved Lourmarin because I loved the house we rented, I loved the walk into town to buy croissants and baguettes for breakfast, I loved the Friday market, I loved just happening upon a small band playing in a square and having lunch and enjoying the music, gorgeous Jul 12, 2009 · 07/15/09 02:53 PM. Posted by christine. But do you want to stay in small villages? Or do you want to stay in a city? Provence is around 350 km from West to East. But I do suggest a car or van. I would look at Rocks book on France or the Provence book for attractions in Provence. Overnight in Avignon. Avignon has a high speed train station that comes from Paris. Day 5- Explore Avignon. But there is a frequent (every 30 min or so) direct bus, it is well-signposted and you buy your ticket at the airport bus stop (or on the bus, memory is hazy). Has anyone had experience with this tour or the Avignon Wine tours? thank you May 7, 2024 · July 14: Bastille Day ("le 14 Juillet," closures, fireworks, revelry) Six nights July 12–August 22 (likely): International Fireworks Festival, Cannes. Aix has free street parking if you move out only a couple of blocks but are still in the one-way circle of a street with a thousand names. The TGV train from Paris to Avignon is only 2 hours 38 minutes, as opposed to over 6 hours of driving. And there's not a single ancient site to see. Côtes de Provence: The lesser-known vineyards of the Côtes de Provence run east from Aix-en-Provence almost to St-Tropez. St Petersburg Florida. (And see our similar lists for elsewhere in Europe. ricksteves. There are so many nice villages in Provence, and all quite diff from one another. The light show mentioned is called Carrières de Lumières and is I believe a few minute walk outside of town. The sculpture garden is particularly wonderful. France is Europe's most diverse, tasty, and, in many ways, most exciting country to explore. Jul 16, 2015 · Posted by olsen. Editorial Reviews. Mar 4, 2024 · Provence in late September. That's right Rick, but from Avignon your TGV train to CDG airport will be going at well over 300 kph (over 186 mph), sometimes 360 kph with the newest trains, for nearly the entire distance. There is much to see in Provence but I would stay in another town,we stayed in Arles and loved it also had a car to explore the Region for seven days. So in my research, using Rick Steves' guidebook, I found that most of the smaller towns that I was dying to go to, where simply shut down during May 2, 2014 · Rick Steves' Europe. Go! My Account. Roman Treasures in Nîmes. Sprinkled on roasted meat or poultry or mixed with olive oil for a rub, it imparts a rustic flavor that is truly de Provence. In the huge parking lot outside the station are kiosks for every car rental company imaginable. One of these itineraries would be a few nights in Avignon/Arles with two nights in Vaison La Romaine (or a similar small town) and possibly biking to nearby villages. " We feel this would be a really good way to start since we have never taken one of his tours. There are plenty of small, charming villages without a heavy tourist presence. French Riviera. Exploring more? Try Rick Steves France for comprehensive coverage, detailed itineraries, and essential information for planning a countrywide trip. Jan 15, 2015 · My husband and I will be in Provence in November and are looking for a tour excursion. "Imagine Tours (near Avignon) offers free assistance to travelers. Jump to bottom. Tour Account ©2024 Rick Steves' Europe, Inc. T. Today, budget vacationers and heat-seeking Europeans fill belle-époque resorts at France's most sought-after fun-in-the-sun destination. You are the perfect candidates to add a stay in Marseille. It has cleaned up its reputation in recent years, and even made it into Rick's books (Mediterranean Cruise Ports or Provence, but not the France book). 951 posts. Apr 19, 2018 · Geographically, the Luberon area is the most centrally located part of Provence. 3677 posts. We supplemented that with Marjorie R. 02/10/24 06:46 PM. Dordogne and Provence are two of the best places in France, IMO. Mar 17, 2024 · 03/18/24 05:38 AM. This time I am going to the Northern edge of provence to Vaison-la-Romaine. (photo Dec 13, 2011 · There is a newer edition of this item: Rick Steves Provence & the French Riviera (Travel Guide) $13. It starts and ends in Nice. If you've already been everywhere but Marseille, then it sounds like time to see Marseille. Lyon Travel Guide Resources & Trip Planning Info by Rick Steves Straddling the mighty Rhône and Saône rivers between Burgundy and Provence, Lyon has been among France's leading cities since Roman times. Here two "telamones" — male figures used as columns — appear to hold up a balcony on Cours Mirabeau. Then, with your expert Rick Steves guide, you'll wind your way south, savoring the perfectly preserved châteaux of the Loire, prehistoric caves and traditional markets of the Dordogne, the medieval city of Carcassonne, the Roman Pont du Gard, and a French Riviera finale in Sep 12, 2021 · It’s my first trip to the south of France. Chicago. Nimes also a great base. Sonia: The best and easiest place to pick up a rental car in Provence is at the Avignon-TGV station, where the bullet trains from Paris arrive. Remy. Great self-guided walks and tours. ) Armed with a Rick Steves guidebook and these late-breaking updates, you're set for a great trip! May 13, 2019 · Provence Transportation Tips. de Vence has a stellar attraction, namely Fondation Maeght, which houses a collection of works by such premier modern artists as Picasso and Matisse. Finally, the wine in the area is phenomenal. Jan 5, 2020 · Also, what is the best route to get from Provence to Ohio? thank you . Shipping & Returns. Easy-to-read maps. Uzés (3 days, 3 nights): Pick up the friend from the train station in the afternoon and explore the town on Day 1. Hotel Saint Christophe seems more modern and perhaps not Under the Roman Sun in Provence. Rick Steves' Europe. After numerous communications with Mike Rijken, we were excited for the first stop on our cruise in Marseille. May 18, 2022 · 2707 posts. Post du Gard aqueduct and its museum" (p. . Dec 13, 2019 · It's a much longer bus trip to/from Aix-en-Provence; it might be best to do a bus connection in Cavaillon (which also has service to St-Remy), but the train/bus combo (connecting in Arles) is also possible. 04/15/15 10:30 AM. We’re hoping to spend 7 days in the Loire valley, as there seems to be a lot to do for the kids and there are many things Apr 15, 2022 · Day 2- Paris. Or longer to marseille or Aix-en-Provence. Posted by Laura. San Francisco/Marin County. Day 3- Paris. It was on the 3rd floor, not air conditioned and it was hot, but there were fans in the apartment. This tasty collection of French treats begins in the cozy, historic town of Chartres — an easy train ride from Paris. This blending of savory, fennel, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and lavender flowers finds its way into many of the foods. "Top 10 Roman Sights in Provence 1. Posted by Maryann. Mar 13, 2012 · Ed - You're not making driving from Paris to Provence look very attractive even while advocating for it. 01/04/18 05:25 PM. Thanks in advance for the advice! Aria. I will be arriving from Le Mans on June 17 via a TVG train (~noon that day). Portland, Oregon. There you'll find lots more varieties of cheese to taste than you might on any one dairy. While it's largely famous for its 14th-century heyday as a papal capital and its even older 12th-century bridge Apr 27, 2012 · Aix en Provence Suggest renting a house in a central town or village. (photo: Rick Steves) Even though its marble facing is long gone, the stage wall of Orange’s Roman theater provides wonderful acoustics for an outdoor setting. Jul 15, 2013 · 07/21/13 09:58 AM. Arles has a great coliseum, too. 3256 posts. Contacted Mike Rijken based on RS Europe for our cruise stop in Marseille and a wine tour of Provence for our group of 9. We will be doing a hiking tour through the hill towns of Luberon in October. Provence was on my itinerary this year as a possible trip. I am considering the Wine Safari tour. 10/29/11 10:07 PM. Sep 2, 2020 · For my week exploring Provençal markets, we had two key resources: In our Rick Steves’ Provence & the Riviera guidebook, co-author Steve Smith offers listings of the most appealing markets in the region, and ample practical tips for exploring them. Leslie Motley. Today, with its large student population, fashionable shops, and extensive traffic-free areas Jul 9, 2018 · Orange - and its roman theater and mini Arc de Triomphe - is worth a stop, as is the Coliseum at Nimes. We got a very cheap flight to Paris through Icelandair- $450 round trip from Paris to JFK. 10/26/08 01:59 PM. Aix en Provence is a charming town in the typical Provence style with beautiful flowers, fountains, and small museums. Day 1: Fly into Paris (save Paris sightseeing for your trip finale), pick up your car, and visit Giverny en route to Honfleur (sleep in Honfleur) Day 2: Morning in Honfleur, afternoon Apr 9, 2021 · 04/09/21 10:56 AM. However, even though the trains and buses are somewhat frequent, you are slowed down a bit waiting on public transportation. If you are not limited to Provence and willing to look at Languedoc-Roussilon as suggested by another responder, take a look at the town of Pezenas. We are slow travelers. For Provence, the closest airport is Marseille; Nice airport is a few hours away. Rick's Provence & Riviera guidebook covers Aix for people focusing on that region, but he does not include it among his favorites in the wider France book (which also has no room for more pages or destinations). Jun 15, 2013 · TGVs run at full speed between Avignon and Paris. Famous for its nursery rhyme, medieval bridge, and brooding Palace of the Popes, contemporary Avignon bustles and prospers behind its mighty walls. I recommend eating @ the B&B. Jun 29, 2023 · Hotel Recommendations for Provence. ©2024 Rick Steves' Europe, Inc. Nov 8, 2022 · Now more than ever, you can count on Rick Steves to tell you what you really need to know when traveling through Provence and the French Riviera. With three days, Cassis and the Calenques would be my top side trip, for sure, 25 minutes by direct, regional train, then bus connection to the port. Baroque architecture gives a stately beauty to Aix-en-Provence. TAVEL, Provence, France. The B&B is in a very central location in the Luberon & it's great. 515 posts. Can you suggest "must see" sights. Posted by shelley. $24. We spent 8 nights in Aix-en-Provence in a rented apartment (from an American owner). 04/05/18 10:19 AM. 2024 Mar 13, 2018 · Both Lourmarin and L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue are also mentioned often on this forum as good places to base in that area of Provence. Hello, I will have five full days in the Provence region from June 18-22. Still-proud hill towns guard access to winsome valleys, while carefully managed vineyards (producing inexpensive wines) play hopscotch with cherry groves, lavender fields, and cypress trees. Both are discussed in Rick's Provence book, but not his France book. (photo: Rick Steves) Farmers markets pop up all over Aix, such as this flower market in front of City Hall. Remy) to stop and savor. Where to stay: My boyfriend and I went last May to Provence & stayed @ Chambres Sous l'Olivier near Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. Day 2 entails exploring Luberon towns and markets, and on Day 3, embark on a road trip to Arles, Nimes, Pont du Gard, Aix en Provence, or Cassis. Oct 5, 2013 · Provence/Luberon. I also recommend that website for rentals all over Provence. It's too big, too distant from most sights of Provence, and full of chain clothing and perfume stores. I don't think Aix is very "authentic". Dec 29, 2020 · Make the most of every day and every dollar with Rick Steves Provence & the French Riviera. ) Books: Nonfiction. Avignon is the transportation hub of western Provence. IMHO, you won't see much of the parts that are east and southeast of Avignon in Provence without a rental car. I'm not so sure burying a car in the bowels of a building (CCTV or not) is any better than abandoning it in plain sight. A car is necessary to get around Provence unless you have a lot of time. WEDNESDAY - St Remy Market, Pont du Gard, & Nimes. Get inspired with Rick Steves’ recommended places to go and things to do, with tips, photos, videos, and travel information on Lyon. Provence is a big place. During this time, it grew from a quiet village into a thriving city. Day 8- Explore northern Luberon villages. 99. Provence is somewhat spread out and it takes a bit of time to go between the different villages. I posted a review on the Slow Travel website. Arles is a fantastic place to be. Day 9- L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue markets. St. When we learn of critical changes to the information in our guidebooks on France, we post them here. Posted by Jazz+Travels. We have held the prestigious 'Certificate of Excellence' for the past 5 years and are also referenced in 3 of Rick Steves Travel Guidebooks enjoying a close working relationship with his company. Extra tips on kids and shopping. The flight to Paris arrives at 0915. All you need to explore the best of Provence and the Riviera. While I like Aix-en-Provence, it is farther away, somewhat isolated, and not as easy to reach, by public transportation, many of the popular tourist destinations of Provence. stephen on 07/16/15 05:46 AM. Aug 9, 2017 · 3603 posts. Typical grapes are Cinsault, Mourvèdre, Grenache, Carignan, and a little cabernet sauvignon and Syrah. S. Jan 4, 2018 · 782 posts. France remains at the forefront of technology, architecture, fashion, and cuisine. Nimes (Roman Amphitheater), Arles, Pont Du Gard, Aix en Provence ( a beautiful city with a lovely central promenade Cours Mirabeau), Avignon (Pope's Palace) and lots of tiny villages (even smaller than St. (Of course, it's still smart to reconfirm critical transportation and sightseeing details locally. (photo: Rick Steves) The magnificent Pont du Gard aqueduct was built around 19 BC to provide a reliable water supply to the city of Nîmes, which was then part of the Roman Jul 11, 2011 · 403 posts. July 18–21: Cornouaille Festival, Quimper (Breton music and cultural festivities) July 18–August 4: Jazz in Marciac, southwest France. Apr 17, 2013 · 9110 posts. Would then need to catch a bus or train to a town for our first night. Avignon is at least closer to classic Provence. This is the most photogenic link of the Pont du Gard, the 30-mile-long aqueduct the ancient Romans built to bring water to their city of Nîmes. Several years ago we did a one-day wine tour with Olivier Hickman of Wine Uncovered that was fantastic (and Rick Steves recommended). Romantic hill towns and castles, meandering river valleys, and oceans of vineyards carpet this country's landscape. Many scholars claim the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings are not in Italy, but in France" (p. I do not know if you are locked into anything yet, but your proposed itinerary entails 15 hours of train travel; the alternative entails 11. For Alsace, Strasbourg has an airport. But please consider the number of open air markets in Provence. I don't really think you'll be able to walk to all the sites. The 14th century buildings. Aix en Provence is a small city/town and Marseilles is a big city. We are looking to visit Arles, St Remy, Avignon, Pont Du Gard, Nimes and wherever else Jun 8, 2019 · Things do not always look the same in real life. So your full-day tour from Nice would give you a scant half day in the lavender fields--if you didn't stop for a sit-down lunch. Feb 15, 2014 · We will be in Aix-en-Provence for three nights in May. With 9 days, I'd fly into Paris, spend four/five nights, fly/train to Marseille (air from Orly) and rent a car, then spend your remaining four to five nights in Provence and fly home from Marseille. A couple of enthusiasts, the Hugues, lovingly cultivate an olive grove that extends over 45 hectares to produce AOP Vallée des Baux-de-Provence olive oils. By Rick Steves and Steve Smith. zj nm vb dg tk dd fq di eq wa

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