Silversea Luxury Cruises To MARSEILLE

Discover the historic landmarks and beauty of Aix-en-Provence on foot during this scenic and memorable walking tour through the Old City. This city is all class: its leafy boulevards and public squares are lined with 17th- and 18th-century mansions, punctuated by gurgling moss-covered fountains. Haughty stone lions guard its grandest avenue, cafe-laced cours Mirabeau, where fashionable Aixois pose on polished pavement terraces sipping espresso.

Depart the pier for the approximate 45-minute drive inland to Aix-en-Provence, which was once the capital of Provence, an independent kingdom at the time. Today, Aix is a lively university and spa town with a sophisticated atmosphere.

Aix en Provence

Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour through the romantic streets of Aix and past its stately 17th- and 18th-century mansions. Other sites to be seen include the famous Cours Mirabeau, an idyllic, tree-lined boulevard with beautiful fountains, the statues of King René of Provence and Anjou, as well as many outdoor cafés. In addition, learn about the great 19th-century master Paul Cézanne, who was born in Aix in 1839.

After a refreshment stop at a café at Cours Mirabeau, some free time is made available before re-boarding the coach for the return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1/2 mile (800 metres), over mostly paved surfaces with a few steps to negotiate. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing, walking shoes and sun protection.

Discover Arles, the largest city in France that resides along the banks of the Rhône River. Once a metropolis of the ancient Romans, today you can still see the arena, the Alyscamps burial grounds, the amphitheater and the Roman baths of Constantin, all of which are registered as UNESCO sites.

Embark your coach for a drive to Arles through the heart of Provence pass the Port of Provence, The Delta of the Rhône River and Camargue.

Arles

Your first destination in Arles will be the Ancient Greek Necropolis of Les Alyscamps. While this well-preserved Greek Cemetery is fascinating in and of itself, this park is perhaps best known for its many appearances in the works of Vincent Van Gogh and Paul Gauguin.

After exploring this beautiful promenade you will drive to the centre of the Roman Town where you will visit the Great Amphitheater. The presence of such a structure is tribute to Arles's importance as a regional Roman capital. You will also see Forum Roman Square, the Amphitheater and Republic Square. Then you will proceed to the Van Gogh Café, the famous subject in Van Gogh's Café Terrace at Night.

Continue to the Town Hall where you will take a narrow staircase to go underground in the cryptoporticus. This series of vault-ceiling tunnels formed the base of the forum and was - and is still- used as a warehouse.

After visiting these incredible sites you will proceed to the City Centre where you will be served lunch in a local restaurant and then you will be able to enjoy free time.

Return to the ship via your coach on an approximate 1-hour and 15 minute ride.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of activity and involves walking over unpaved or cobbled paths for approximately 1000m (.62 miles). This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing, walking shoes and sun protection. Bring local currency for any purchases.

Soak up the essence of French culture, history and cuisine on this delightful full-day excursion in the Southern Rhone Valley. Enjoy a wine tasting at Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a delicious and refined lunch, and a walking tour of Avignon.

Tour and Tasting at the Illustrious Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Make a scenic 90-minute drive to Châteauneuf-du-Pape's legendary vineyards. Established by the Archbishop of Bordeaux in the early 14^th century, Châteauneuf-du-Pape translates to "the Pope's new castle" in reference to the Pope relocating the papacy to this region in Avignon. Today, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is one of the most productive regions, with 110,000 hectolitres of wine produced annually in a region encompassing nearly 8,000 acres.

Make a visit to the cellars of Pavillon des Vins Bouachon, nestled at the center of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation. Learn about the art of making wines with an informative introduction, and then of course delight in a wine tasting before traveling to your lunch destination.

Avignon: Gourmet Lunch and Walking Tour

Drive 30 minutes to Avignon to the Restaurant. Make the short walk from the coach past the Pope's Palace to arrive to the unique vaulted venue "L'Essentiel" or "La Treille" where you are expected in a very refined setting of a typically French old style Mansion with terrace.

Next, discover the history of Avignon on foot on an approximate 90-minute guided walking tour. Discover the Catholic roots of this city, founded by Pope Clement in the early 14^th century and maintained with papal rule until 1791, when it officially became part of France. See the famous Pont d'Avignon of the French nursery rhyme and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Your knowledgeable guide helps you discover the manifold charms of Avignon, with its spectacular architecture and views that make it the heart of Provence's culture and history. See for yourself how the city is centered around the largest Gothic palace in Europe, the Palais des Papes (UNESCO). Avignon's medieval architecture and stature as a destination for art and culture was established with the transferal of the papacy in the 14^th century. At this time lavish sums were spent on creating the papal palace and other religious architecture. Enjoy some free time before rejoining the coach for the journey back to Marseilles.

Discover the exquisitely scenic town of Cassis and enjoy its charms on this relaxing tour that offers panoramic views, a chance to work up your appetite on a walking tour, and ends with a wine tasting with local delicacies.

Marseilles Sightseeing and Cassis Walking Tour

Drive from the pier, getting a sightseeing tour of the gracious port city of Marseilles en route. Arrive in Cassis, founded in the 6^th century BC by the Legurians and renamed to Cassis during Roman times. Cassis is home to the spectacular calanques, dramatically shaped coves that provide a natural counterpart to the picturesque charm of the colorful fishing port. Take a 45-minute panoramic walking tour of Cassis and then enjoy an hour to yourself to relax at a bistro, go shopping or watch the locals and tourists pass by.

Cassis Wine and cold cuts Tasting

Cassis is of course famous for its white wine, which you have the opportunity to taste when the tour group reconvenes. Enjoy a lovely Tasting of deluxe charcuterie (cold cuts) and a variety of cheeses, paired with delicious wines of the region.

Photo Stop at More Highlights

Walk back to the coach, and set off to return to Marseilles. If the conditions are favorable for a good view, pause at the Route des Crêtes for another spectacular viewpoint. As you return to Marseilles make another quick stop at Longchamp Palace for photos before returning to the ship.

This tour involves a moderate amount of walking of approximately 0.6 miles and is specially designed for guests who utilise a wheelchair or a scooter.

This Marseille shore excursion gives you a perfect glimpse of the charm and beauty of Provence! Enjoy a panoramic drive with views of beautiful Marseilles, explore the interior of the spectacular Basilica Notre Dame de la Garde and enjoy a leisurely stroll in the picturesque Old Port of Marseilles.

Marseille, Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica

Start your tour by meeting your tour guide and board your accessible van at the cruise dock. From here, you will set out on an enjoyable, short panoramic drive to your first stop of the day, Basilica Notre Dame de la Garde. This breathtaking Basilica sits on a hill overlooking the city and is the perfect spot for some wonderful photos of Marseilles. Escorted by your tour guide, you will enter the Basilica and admire the extravagant interior as you learn more about the history of the site.

Old Port of Marseille, Fort Saint Jean

Next, your tour continues to the entrance to the Old Port of Marseilles where you will see the 1660 Fort Saint-Jean, built by Louis XIV. You will get a chance to explore the parts of the fortification that is accessible and enjoy some spectacular views. Starting from the Old Port, you will enjoy a leisurely stroll passing through several highlights of the beautiful city, including the extravagant Town Hall and the Historic Quarter. As you make your way along the old pedestrianized streets and see the ancient buildings, you will feel like you have been taken back in time to the thriving days of this charming old French port.

Reboard your accessible van and return to the pier.

Experience the panoramic beauty and splendour of Marseilles during this half-day sightseeing tour of France's second-largest city. Marseille is a rich, pulsing port city bubbling over with history, cutting-edge creative spaces and hip multicultural urbanites. Since Greek settlers came ashore around 600 BC, waves of immigrants have made Marseille their home.

Marseilles Tour

Depart the pier for the brief drive into downtown Marseilles. Upon arrival, your tour commences at the Old Port, or 'Vieux Port'. Once used by the Greeks, this deep cove is now occupied by the boats of fishermen and tourists. After a photo stop in front of the Town Hall, drive along the seaside road, Corniche Kennedy.

Notre-Dame de la Garde

Next, your tour proceeds to the Notre-Dame de la Garde. The landmark of Marseilles, this basilica overlooks the entire city and the Mediterranean.

Longchamp Palace

Your final stop is at the Palais Longchamp. This stunning monument was built in commemoration of the arrival of water from the Durance Canal in Marseille, a 10 year long project. You will be given a photo stop to see this grand monument. After this, you will return to the ship.

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking for approximately 1,640 feet (about 500 metres), at the Notre Dame de la Garde from the bus parking, there are about 100 steps to negotiate; guests with limitations or those with a wheelchair may stay on the coach during the visit to Notre Dame de la Garde. The remaining portion of this tour is suitable for those with limited mobility; however, guests must be able to embark/disembark the coach via steps. A minimum number of participants per guide are required to operate this programme.

Explore Marseille at your leisure during your full-day (8 Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Marseille at your leisure during your half-day (4 Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Marseille at your leisure during your full-day (8 Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Marseille at your leisure during your half-day (4 Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Experience the Provençal charm of Southern France during this scenic, full-day excursion to some of the 'must see' villages of Provence - Les Baux de Provence and Saint Rémy de Provence. These two picturesque villages date back centuries; Les Baux de Provence offers a majestic hilltop location with sites of historical interest and the celebrated Cathedral of Images. Saint Rémy is embraced by a wide, leafy boulevard; the lazily charming old town is a maze of winding streets, cafés, squares and fountains with two exceptional attractions on its edge.

Depart the pier for the brief drive through the Provençal landscapes en route to the little mountain range known as the Small Alps, or 'Les Alpilles', home of incredibly scenic village of Les Baux de Provence.

Les Baux de Provence

Upon arrival, take a guided tour of a traditional olive oil mill for a tasting of its products. After this delightful tasting, take a guided walking tour of the impressive ruins of a former 11th-century citadelle, which is perched on a rocky plateau. Some free time is then made available to explore the village and browse the many Provencal shops.

La Cabro D'or (Relais & Châteaux)

Next, re-board your coach a short drive to the restaurant la Cabro D'or Nestled in a wonderful garden at the heart of the Alpilles mountains, the Cabro D'or is a family-friendly hotel Relais & Chateau, the hotel's gourmet restaurant serves mouth-watering specialties.

St. Remy de Provence

Continue your drive to Saint Rémy de Provence, which acts as a sort of link between the Arles area and the Provence of the Popes. Although it has every appearance of being no more than a prosperous farming community, this small town is inextricably linked to the unavoidable 'tourist route' through Provence. Philosopher Nostradamus was born in a house on Rue Hoche in St. Remy, only later moving to Salon de Provence to compile his famous, influential prophecies. Three centuries later a tormented Vincent Van Gogh sought refuge in St. Remy where he painted some of his best known works.

Return to the ship in Marseilles via your coach on the approximate 1-hour and 15 minute drive.

Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of walking for approximately .75 miles (1100 metres), with inclines, cobblestone streets and steps to negotiate. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Although a minimum number of participants are required for tour's operation, space is very limited. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing, walking shoes and sun protection. The order of the sites visited may vary.