11 – Day Christian Heritage and Cultural Tour in Provence

Morning: Visit the Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, with its intricate cloisters and a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements. Learn about Aix’s spiritual and cultural evolution. Afternoon: Tour the charming old town, including the market square, and enjoy a wine-tasting experience in a nearby vineyard. Lunch: Enjoy a Provençal feast featuring local specialties like ratatouille and tarte tropézienne. Evening: Free time to explore Aix’s bustling streets or relax at your hotel.

Morning: Take a guided hike in the Calanques National Park to the Chapelle Sainte-Croix, surrounded by breathtaking views of the cliffs and turquoise waters. Afternoon: Enjoy a scenic boat tour of the Calanques. Visit the charming harbor of Cassis to explore its quaint streets and boutiques. Lunch: Fresh seafood lunch with a view of the port. Evening: Return to Marseille for a relaxed evening.

Morning: Arrive in Avignon to explore the Palais des Papes, the world’s largest Gothic palace. Learn about its role during the Avignon Papacy in the 14th century. Afternoon: Visit the Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms, perched on a hill, followed by a walk along the Pont d’Avignon while delving into its famous legend. Lunch: Dine at a riverside restaurant featuring Provençal cuisine. Evening: Free time to enjoy Avignon’s vibrant cultural scene.

Morning: Visit Saint-Paul de Mausole Monastery (Vangogh mental asylum), a serene site where Saint Rémy is said to have performed miracles. Visit the born house of Nostradamus Tour the surrounding gardens and lavender fields (June - August). Afternoon: Continue to Les Baux-de-Provence to explore the medieval village and Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs. Learn about the area’s Christian legends and miracles. Lunch: Enjoy a traditional lunch at a charming inn in the Alpilles. Evening: Return to your hotel for leisure time.

Morning: Start your day with a guided tour of Église Saint-Trophime in Arles, known for its remarkable Romanesque carvings. Afternoon: Visit the nearby Abbaye de Montmajour, a Benedictine monastery rich in history. Explore its cloisters, crypts, and chapels, set amidst peaceful countryside. Lunch: Relish a Provençal meal in Arles, featuring local wines and regional flavors. Evening: Optional evening visit to Arles’ Roman Amphitheater for a taste of its historic legacy.

Morning: Tour the picturesque village of Gordes and visit the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, a working monastery surrounded by lavender fields. Afternoon: Learn about the daily life of the monks and the abbey’s role in Provençal history. Free time to explore Gordes or nearby villages like Roussillon. Lunch: Enjoy a farm-to-table meal with a focus on local produce and wines. Evening: Return to your accommodation for a relaxing evening.

Morning: Visit Vaison-la-Romaine, where Roman ruins coexist with medieval Christian sites like the Cathedral of Our Lady of Nazareth. Afternoon: Continue to Orange to explore the Roman Theater and learn about the area’s early Christian communities. Lunch: Experience a wine-pairing lunch in a vineyard specializing in Rhône Valley wines. Evening: Stay overnight in a charming countryside hotel.

Morning: Explore Uzes, home to the Cathedral of Saint Théodorit and the historic Fenestrelle Tower. Afternoon: Visit the Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct with ties to early Christian communities. Take a short hike around the site. Lunch: Picnic with regional specialties by the riverbanks near the Pont du Gard. Evening: Return to Avignon or surroundings for dinner and rest.

Morning: Hike to the Grotte Sainte-Madeleine, a sacred site tied to the legend of Mary Magdalene’s presence in Provence. Afternoon: Visit the Col du Saint-Pilon for panoramic views and explore the surrounding trails and chapels. Lunch: Dine at Hôtellerie Sainte-Baume, sampling hearty Provençal cuisine. Evening: Reflect on the day’s spiritual experience at your nearby hotel.

Morning: Take time to visit any missed sites or enjoy a final stroll through Marseille. Lunch: Conclude with a farewell meal in a harbor-side restaurant featuring Mediterranean flavors. Afternoon: Transfer to the airport or train station for your onward journey.