Provence in Depth
- 8
- £999
- France
- Discover the historic towns, colourful markets and beautiful landscapes of Provence by rail
- Spend 3 nights in Avignon, home to the magnificent Palais des Papes and a gateway to the surrounding region
- Enjoy 2 nights in Arles, renowned for its Roman heritage and connections with Vincent van Gogh
- Stay 2 nights in Aix-en-Provence, with its elegant boulevards, fountains and lively café culture
- Make the most of two additional days of regional rail travel, giving you the freedom to explore more of Provence at your own pace
- Decide when you would like to travel
- Adapt the route to suit your plans
- Upgrade hotels and rail journeys
- Add extra nights, destinations and/or tours
- Standard Class rail travel with seat reservations
- 7 nights’ handpicked hotel accommodation with breakfast
- Free day of rail travel from Avignon
- Easy-to-follow travel documentation
- Despatch of tickets by email
- Proactive rerouting in case of strikes or disruptions
Suggested Itinerary
Depart London St Pancras on board Eurostar and change in Lille or Paris for the rapid TGV service into the heart of Provence, arriving at Avignon TGV.
Upon arrival, check in at the Hotel de l’Horloge (or similar), just off the Place de l’Horloge and in prime position for visiting the Palais des Papes and Pont d’Avignon.
Spend two full days in Avignon where you will have one day free to see the city at your own pace. Wander around the mighty Palais des Papes or take a walk ‘sur le pont d’Avignon’.
On one of your days here, you can take to the rails for unlimited travel in the local area. Perhaps take a day trip to Orange, with its impressive Roman arena or Arles – where Van Gogh spent more than a year creating paintings inspired by the local area. You can also reach Montelimar (pictured), which boasts a fabulous castle and world-famous nougat.
Enjoy a leisurely start today and take your 15-minute rail journey from Avignon’s central station at a time to suit you.
On arrival in Arles, you have 2 nights at the Mercure Arles Centre Arenas (or similar).
Enjoy a full day exploring Arles, a charming Provençal town with a rich Roman heritage and strong artistic connections. Discover the impressive Roman amphitheatre, wander through the narrow streets and lively squares of the historic centre, and follow in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh, who found inspiration here for some of his most famous paintings. Browse the local markets, relax at a pavement café or visit the Fondation Vincent van Gogh to explore the town’s artistic legacy. Alternatively, use your rail pass to venture further into Provence.
Leave Arles this morning and take a regional train to the coast at Marseille. Here, connect onto a TGV which will take you to the small town of Aix-en-Provence where you will check in at the Hotel Cezanne (or similar) for a 2-night stay. If you’d like to spend some time in Marseille (perhaps for lunch) or add a night or two here, let us know.
Aix-en-Provence has a history dating back to 123 BC, when the city was founded. There is plenty to see and do here, from architecture and museums to shopping and art galleries.
Spend a full day discovering Aix-en-Provence, an elegant town known for its graceful architecture, tree-lined boulevards and lively café culture. Wander along the Cours Mirabeau, explore the narrow streets and colourful markets of the old town, and admire the many fountains dotted throughout the historic centre. Art lovers can follow in the footsteps of Paul Cézanne, who was born here, or visit the Musée Granet. Take time to enjoy the town’s excellent restaurants, independent shops and inviting squares, or simply relax at a pavement café and soak up the Provençal atmosphere.
Head back to the high-speed station in Aix for your journey home. Change in Paris or Lille and connect with your Eurostar back to the UK.
TMR RECOMMENDS: Cap off your holiday with a night or two in the world-class city of Paris. Take in the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe and Louvre Museum before heading back to the UK by Eurostar.
Typical hotels on this itinerary
Avignon
Overlooking the pretty Place de l’Horloge in the centre of Avignon, the Hotel de l’Horloge occupies a traditional 19th century building with antique furnishings and elegantly decorated bedrooms. All of these feature air-conditioning, sound-proofing and complimentary Wi-Fi access.
Arles
The Mercure Arles Centre Arènes enjoys a central location in Arles, just an eight-minute walk from the Roman amphitheatre and within easy reach of the historic centre. Its modern, air-conditioned rooms feature soundproofing, private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi and minibars. Hotel facilities include a rooftop swimming pool, sun terrace, fitness room, bar and restaurant serving traditional French cuisine.
Cannes
The boutique Cézanne Hotel is situated within walking distance of the famous Boulevard de la Croisette and the beach. Air-conditioned rooms feature modern decor inspired by Provençal farmhouses, with flat-screen TVs and a minibar. Subject to weather conditions, breakfast can be served on a shaded terrace looking out on the hotel’s wooded garden. Wi-Fi access is available at the reception, which is open 24 hours a day.
Upgrade your accommodation
Avignon
The boutique Hotel La Mirande is situated in the heart of Avignon, with bedrooms overlooking the Palais des Papes. This historic hotel features 27 air-conditioned bedrooms with oak-wood parquet flooring and silk-lined curtains. Afternoon tea can be enjoyed on the hotel’s quiet terrace and in the evening, the Michelin starred restaurant offers gourmet dining in a beautiful setting.
Arles
This former 17th century convent was re-imagined by the famous designer Christian Lacroix in 2014 and is now a beautiful, relaxing and indulgent retreat amongst the Roman history of Arles. Rooms are equipped with a safe, WiFi and air conditioning amongst numerous other comforts, and in the summer the on-site restaurant and bar spill onto the sunlit terrace. Guests also have access to a heated outdoor pool and a spa.
