In a nutshell

It's not a paradox: the very harmony of Provence is the fruit of its contrasts. Discover it as part of an exclusive Costa experience, soaking up the calm atmosphere of Aix-En-Provence, between the squares, fountains and the boulevards of Cours Mirabeau, where Cézanne and Zola used to spend time. Then, immerse yourself in the rebellious soul of Marseille as you take a walk around the old port.

Main stops

Walk through Aix: cathedral of Saint-Sauveur; Town Hall Square; Place d'Albertas; Place Richelme; Cours Mirabeau; Mazarin district
Sightseeing bus tour to Marseille
Free time for lunch
Walk through Marseille: Old Port

The programme

How many nuances and contrasts exist alongside each other in Provence? You'll lose count with your exclusive Costa guide.
Aix-en-Provence is as elegant as it is enigmatic. Like the cathedral of Saint-Sauveur: a bastion of Christianity that supposedly stands on an ancient temple of Apollo.
Don't be fooled by the romantic tranquility of these streets: revolutionaries used to hide out in the squares of Place de la Mairie and Place d’Albertas. Meanwhile, Place Richelme was where mercantile art came to life. Today, it's street art that takes center stage.
But the epicenter of all forms of art, both then and now, is Cours Mirabeau. Your guide will point out its historic bar, where lively "intellectual meetings" would take place. The best-known of these? Cézanne and Zola, who would come together here over a glass or two!
For a change of scene, head to Marseille, where you'll have some free time to taste a few local specialties. From the port, make your way through the most vibrant multi-ethnic neighborhoods.

Good to know

Wear suitable clothing for the places of worship you will be visiting.
Slight changes may be made to itineraries and the length of excursions to protect your health and to comply with regulations and the safety protocol.