Highlights
- See spectacular views of Paris at night with an evening cruise on the Seine
- Discover the neighborhoods and historic sites of Paris and Marseille via e-bike
- Explore the underwater world of Calanques National Park on a guided snorkel tour
- Raft the blue-green waters and scale the soaring cliffs of the Gorges du Verdon
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Paris, Evening on the Seine | Paris |
| Day 2 | Free Morning in Paris, Guided E-Bike Exploration or Marais Pastry Tour | Paris |
| Day 3 | Train to Marseille, Catamaran Cruise in Calanques National Park | Marseille |
| Day 4 | Snorkel or Kayak in Calanques National Park, Discover Cassis | Marseille |
| Day 5 | Tour Marseille via E-Bike, Drive to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie | Moustiers-Sainte-Marie |
| Day 6 | Verdon Gorge Rafting & Canyoning Adventure | Moustiers-Sainte-Marie |
| Day 7 | Drive to Aix-en-Provence via the Valensole Plateau, Train to Paris | Paris |
| Day 8 | Depart Paris |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Paris, Evening on the Seine
Welcome to France! Your flight lands in the capital city of Paris, otherwise known as the "City of Light." This thriving metropolis blends far-reaching history with modern vibes, featuring ancient architecture alongside chic cafés, world-class museums, and high-end shopping. Upon arrival, you'll be met by your private driver and transferred to your hotel. Once you've checked in and had a chance to get settled, you're free to relax or step out for some sightseeing on your own.
A stroll through the Jardin du Luxembourg is an ideal way to stretch your legs post-flight. Created on the initiative of Queen Marie de Médicis in 1612, it encompasses over 60 acres (25 ha) and is divided into French and English sections, with more than 100 statues scattered throughout. Later tonight, you'll head to the banks of the Seine for an evening cruise. Enjoy sparkling city views and pass iconic monuments, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Musée du Louvre, and the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, while learning more about the city's history via informative audio commentary on your smartphone.
Day 2: Free Morning in Paris, Guided E-Bike Exploration or Marais Pastry Tour
Start today with some self-guided exploration, checking off some classic Parisian landmarks. Start with a stroll through the Jardin des Tuileries, which sits between the Musée du Louvre and Place de la Concorde, with manicured lawns and statues from Maillo, Rodin, and Giacometti. Then, step inside "Le Louvre" to browse the world's most revered artistic works, including the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the work of masters such as Géricault and Delacroix.
Next, head to the Trocadero Esplanade, an open space with several fountains and exceptional views of the Eiffel Tower, and continue to the tower itself. Built by Gustave Eiffel as a temporary exhibit for the 1889 World's Fair, this 1,049-foot (320 m) spire has stood the test of time, and now, no one could imagine Paris without it. Purchase your access tickets and ascend to the second floor for panoramic city views, then continue to the summit for even better views!
For an introduction to Paris' lesser-known sites, consider an e-bike tour this afternoon. Meet your guide and follow them along the Seine and up to the Montagne Sainte-Geneviève. Hear stories about Paris' monuments as you ride through neighborhoods such as Saint-Germain-des-Près, uncovering romantic spots, quiet bridges, and trendy cafés. Alternatively, foodies can opt for a walking (and tasting) tour of the Marais district, home to some of the city's best pastry and chocolate shops.
Day 3: Train to Marseille, Catamaran Cruise in Calanques National Park
Your next destination is one of the oldest cities in France: Marseille. This vibrant Mediterranean port's history stretches back over 2,600 years, and it serves as the western gateway to the French Riviera. After checking out of your Paris hotel, hop on a high-speed train for the scenic 3.5-hour journey south. Get settled in, then take a walk through the Notre-Dame du Mont and Cours Julien neighborhoods, get lost in the Panier, Marseille's oldest district, or visit the Noailles area, where you'll feel like you've landed in the souks (markets) of Africa and Asia.
This evening, set out on a sunset catamaran tour of nearby Calanques National Park. Cruise past sheer limestone cliffs that rise above the turquoise waters of the park, and visit the region's distinctive "creeks" such as the Sormiou or Calanque d'En Vau. Take in the glittering lights of Marseille in the distance as you sip Champagne or wine, snack on local treats, and listen to your favorite tunes on the boat's state-of-the-art soundtrack system.
Day 4: Snorkel or Kayak in Calanques National Park, Discover Cassis
Dive deeper into Calanques National Park today with a guided snorkeling tour. Start at the harbor of La Pointe Rouge, where you'll meet your guide and get a safety and equipment briefing, then head into the park. With your expert instructor by your side, you'll visit sheltered inlets and spot diverse marine life like fish, dolphins, and even the occasional octopus or turtle. If you'd prefer to spend the day above the surface, opt for a kayaking tour, exploring hidden coves accessible only by boat and paddling through crystalline water framed by steep cliffs.
Later today, you'll head back to land to spend some time exploring the town of Cassis, a colorful fishing village that sits right on the edge of the park. Wander the lively food market for traditional and regional goods, perhaps assembling a picnic lunch to take to the nearby beach. Stroll along the port, climb the nearby hills for views of the bay, and stop by a local vineyard for a tasting of delicious rosé and white wines. Cassis is also home to several excellent seafood restaurants, where the fresh catches of the day make for a perfect dinner.
Day 5: Tour Marseille via E-Bike, Drive to Moustiers Sainte-Marie
Your final morning in Marseille takes you on a guided e-bike tour around the city. Meet your guide after breakfast and, after a safety and equipment briefing, begin your ride to sites such as the 19th-century Cathédrale La Major and the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MUCEM). Visit the Old Port, see Napoleon III's Pharo Palace, and take in the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde while your guide shares fascinating historical anecdotes and legends about each place.
Afterward, it's time to begin the road trip portion of your itinerary as you pick up a rental car and drive roughly two hours northeast into the countryside of Provence. Your destination is Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a picturesque hillside village home to barely 1,000 residents, located within Verdon Natural Regional Park. Get settled at your hotel, then set out on foot from the historic center, climbing stairs and traversing narrow pathways for views of the countryside and nearby Lac de Sainte-Croix. You can also head to the lake for a stroll along the shoreline or a refreshing dip if the weather is warm.
Day 6: Verdon Gorge Rafting & Canyoning Adventure
Get ready for a day of adventure in the Gorges du Verdon, a spectacular canyon that stretches over 31 miles (50 km) and reaches up to 2,296 feet (700 m) in depth (making it the largest in Europe). It begins when you meet your driver and head to Castellane, located about 28 miles (45 km) outside of Moustiers. Here you'll receive paddling instructions and safety briefings from your expert guides before casting off for a rafting trip down the mighty Verdon River.
Paddle along blue-green waters under soaring canyon walls, alternating between serene channels and exhilarating rapids before ending back at Castellane for lunch and a stroll around town. If you're looking for even more adrenaline, add a canyoneering excursion to your day, embarking on a wild hike that includes jumps, natural waterslides, and swimming breaks. The thrilling excursion culminates when you abseil down the canyon's limestone walls, braving a sheer 98-foot (10 m) descent.
Day 7: Drive to Aix-en-Provence via the Valensole Plateau, Train to Paris
It's time to pack up and drive 1.5 hours southwest to Aix-en-Provence, but not before you experience one of the region's most photographed landscapes—the Plateau de Valensole. Every summer, starting in June and peaking in early July, the fields in this part of Provence come alive with vivid displays of blooming lavender, set against a backdrop of golden wheat fields and almond orchards.
Take your time as you wind through this perfect slice of Provence, and pause for plenty of photo ops along the way. You could also arrange to stop by a local farm to see how lavender and Damask roses are cultivated and distilled into fragrant concoctions. When you pull into Aix, drop off your rental car and board a three-hour train back to Paris, where you can straight to your hotel on arrival or squeeze in a little more Parisian sightseeing in the afternoon. Tonight, consider ending your trip on a high note with a hot-air balloon ride on the Ballon de Paris, which soars 500 feet (150 m) above the city.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 8: Depart Paris
Your Paris and Provence adventure draws to a close today. After one last café au lait and croissant, meet your driver and transfer to the airport for your departing flight. Au revoir!
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