Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

This all day excursion combines the best of two worlds. Not only can you experience the sights and sounds of Aix en Provence aboard your comfy air-conditioned motorcoach, but you also have the opportunity to get out, stretch your legs, and walk around this amazing town at your own pace.

Before you leave Toulon, remember to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a camera to capture the many glorious sights that you'll see during the day. Once you leave the bustling city of Toulon, sit back and enjoy the 90-minute ride to Aix en Provence.

Aix's most famous son is famed painter Paul Cézanne (1839/1906). When entering the city, you will view Le Jas de Bouffan, an 18c bastide and Cézanne's childhood residence.

It may be hard to imagine that Roman soldiers once made their home in this enchanting area. But, like most of Europe, the Roman Empire stretched its influence up into France, or, as it was known in the ancient world, Gaul. And this tranquil spot was the perfect location for a new Roman town. Not only was it conveniently located on the crossroads of Italy and Spain, it also featured a number of thermal springs. So in 123 B.C. the town of Aqua Sextiae was born. The name would eventually change over the centuries to Aix en Provence but water is still very important. In fact, Aix was known as a health resort at the beginning of the 20th century.Today, the water flows through the city's many beautiful fountains.

As you make your way through Aix, your informative guide will point out areas of interest including the lovely Cours Mirabeau, a wide boulevard dotted with magnificent fountains, and lined with cafes shaded by tall plane trees. During your walking tour, your guide will not fail to show you Cézanne's favorite places such as the Brasserie Les Deux Garçons It was there that he used to spend some time with his friend Emile Zola on a daily basis.

Further on is the Mazarin Quarter. Built in the 17th century, its grid pattern of streets is filled with lovely 17th and 18th century town homes where the well-to-do once lived. Today, it is home to some of Aix's trendy boutiques and Museums.

Then, you'll make your way over to 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. Have your camera ready for the stunning Cathédrale St-Sauveur (Holy Savior Cathedral). From the 5th through the 17th 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.

After your guided sightseeing tour, you'll get to explore the town on your own. This is the perfect time to shop, enjoy the local market, have lunch in a little café, visit the famous Fine Arts Granet Museum or just take lots of pictures.

At the end of the day, you'll return to your motorcoach for a relaxing ride through the picturesque country road of Le Tholonet to get a close view of Sainte Victoire Mountain, Cézanne inspiration for many of his paintings. Then rejoin the motorway back to your ship, enlightened and charmed by this beguiling city.