Discovering Aix-en-Provence by Le Petite Train
Moderate Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Encircled by hills and nestled in the heart of of Provence, the charming town of Aix is celebrated for its boulevards adorned with beautiful fountains, outdoor cafés, and stately 17th and 18th century mansions. A comfortable coach transfer brings you inland to Aix, where you'll board the train. Recorded commentary/narration will point out areas of interest including the lovely Cours Mirabeau, an elegant boulevard known as the "Champs-Elysées of Provence." Further on is the Mazarin Quarter. Built in the 17th century, its grid pattern of streets is filled with lovely 17th and 18th century homes where the well-to-do once lived. Today, it's home to some of Aix's trendy boutiques. Connecting Mazarin Quarter is Old Town. Built on the site of a former Roman town, you'll travel around a maze of narrow streets dating back to the Middle Ages. Once you disembark, you'll have free time to explore on your own.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
Have your camera at the ready as the trolley passes the stunning Cathédrale St-Sauveur (Holy Savior Cathedral). From the 12th through the 19th centuries, the cathedral was built and rebuilt atop a Roman temple dedicated to Apollo. With its fascinating architectural mix of Romanesque, Gothic and Neo-Gothic elements, plus Roman columns, the cathedral is noted as a National Monument of France.
LUNCH
Stop in any one of the markets and purchase cheese, bread and wine for a simple picnic. Those with a sweet tooth will like "calissons," an almond pastry made with candied fruit, and ground almonds topped with a thin layer of icing.
SHOPPING
Must-have souvenirs of soap, lavender products, crafts, and textiles can be found throughout the city, especially in the markets along Cours Mirabeau.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
As you journey from the pier in Marseilles to Aix, you'll pass the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde. Perched atop the city's highest hill at 150 meters (492 feet), the basilica's large gilded statue of the Virgin Mary on its bell tower is easily spotted.
Schedule
Special Notes
Lunch is on your own.
Wear hat, sunscreen and weather-appropriate attire and comfortable walking shoes. Bring local currency or credit cards and bottle of water. Shops are closed on Sundays and Bank Holidays.
There are very few public restrooms in Aix-en-Provence. Guests can use the facilities in cafes as long as drinks or food are purchased. Time spent at the sites and the order of the visits may change due to operational reasons.
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair guests and those with mobility concerns are cautioned to carefully evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability. This tour requires no significant physical effort, with optional walking during free time, and some areas featuring cobblestones.
Exceptional Value
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Moderate Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Encircled by hills and nestled in the heart of of Provence, the charming town of Aix is celebrated for its boulevards adorned with beautiful fountains, outdoor cafés, and stately 17th and 18th century mansions. A comfortable coach transfer brings you inland to Aix, where you'll board the train. Recorded commentary/narration will point out areas of interest including the lovely Cours Mirabeau, an elegant boulevard known as the "Champs-Elysées of Provence." Further on is the Mazarin Quarter. Built in the 17th century, its grid pattern of streets is filled with lovely 17th and 18th century homes where the well-to-do once lived. Today, it's home to some of Aix's trendy boutiques. Connecting Mazarin Quarter is Old Town. Built on the site of a former Roman town, you'll travel around a maze of narrow streets dating back to the Middle Ages. Once you disembark, you'll have free time to explore on your own.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
Have your camera at the ready as the trolley passes the stunning Cathédrale St-Sauveur (Holy Savior Cathedral). From the 12th through the 19th centuries, the cathedral was built and rebuilt atop a Roman temple dedicated to Apollo. With its fascinating architectural mix of Romanesque, Gothic and Neo-Gothic elements, plus Roman columns, the cathedral is noted as a National Monument of France.
LUNCH
Stop in any one of the markets and purchase cheese, bread and wine for a simple picnic. Those with a sweet tooth will like "calissons," an almond pastry made with candied fruit, and ground almonds topped with a thin layer of icing.
SHOPPING
Must-have souvenirs of soap, lavender products, crafts, and textiles can be found throughout the city, especially in the markets along Cours Mirabeau.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
As you journey from the pier in Marseilles to Aix, you'll pass the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde. Perched atop the city's highest hill at 150 meters (492 feet), the basilica's large gilded statue of the Virgin Mary on its bell tower is easily spotted.
Schedule
Special Notes
Lunch is on your own.
Wear hat, sunscreen and weather-appropriate attire and comfortable walking shoes. Bring local currency or credit cards and bottle of water. Shops are closed on Sundays and Bank Holidays.
There are very few public restrooms in Aix-en-Provence. Guests can use the facilities in cafes as long as drinks or food are purchased. Time spent at the sites and the order of the visits may change due to operational reasons.
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair guests and those with mobility concerns are cautioned to carefully evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability. This tour requires no significant physical effort, with optional walking during free time, and some areas featuring cobblestones.