Settle into the heart of Aix-en-Provence and spend three weeks living like a local, immersed in the delightful culture of the south of France and exploring Provençal history and culture on excursions to Avignon, Arles, and beyond.

Starting at: $7,290 * Price includes special offer Make a Reservation Ask Us A Question or Call 855-330-1542
 Iconic lavender fields of Provence
Iconic lavender fields of Provence
 Typical flower market in Provence. Credit: Sundrenched Gardens/Alamy
Typical flower market in Provence. Credit: Sundrenched Gardens/Alamy
 Market in Aix-en-Provence
Market in Aix-en-Provence
 Fountain in central Aix-en-Provence
Fountain in central Aix-en-Provence
 Traditional Provencal cheese market
Traditional Provencal cheese market
 Traditional condiments in Provence
Traditional condiments in Provence
 A plentiful market stall. Credit: Stephen Clancy
A plentiful market stall. Credit: Stephen Clancy
 Traditional French market
Traditional French market
 Shopping in the local market
Shopping in the local market
 Travelers attending an olive oil demonstration. Credit: Andrew Becker
Travelers attending an olive oil demonstration. Credit: Andrew Becker
 Trying out a new Provencal recipe
Trying out a new Provencal recipe
 Cheese tasting in Provence. Credit: Atout France / Michel Angot
Cheese tasting in Provence. Credit: Atout France / Michel Angot
 Sunflowers, a common flower of southern France
Sunflowers, a common flower of southern France
 Traditional French breakfast or <i>petit-déjeuner</i>
Traditional French breakfast or petit-déjeuner
 Avignon with the St. Benezet Bridge
Avignon with the St. Benezet Bridge
 Palais des Papes, Avignon
Palais des Papes, Avignon
 Enjoying the view of the Palais des Papas, Avignon
Enjoying the view of the Palais des Papas, Avignon
 The Palais des Papes, Avignon, at dusk
The Palais des Papes, Avignon, at dusk
 Square with Church of St. Trophime, Arles
Square with Church of St. Trophime, Arles
 The portal of the Romanesque Church of St. Trophime, Arles
The portal of the Romanesque Church of St. Trophime, Arles
 View of Arles
View of Arles
 Typical street in Arles
Typical street in Arles
 The ancient Pont du Gard
The ancient Pont du Gard
 Provencal village of Roussillon, the Luberon
Provencal village of Roussillon, the Luberon
 Scene in Marseille
Scene in Marseille
 Landscape of sunflowers in Provence
Landscape of sunflowers in Provence

Living in France: A Three-Week Stay in Provence

23 days from $7,290

Settle into the heart of Aix-en-Provence and spend three weeks living like a local, immersed in the delightful culture of the south of France and exploring Provençal history and culture on excursions to Avignon, Arles, and beyond.

or Call 855-330-1542

Tour Details

TOUR BROCHURE

brochure

WHAT OUR TRAVELERS SAY

Smithsonian Journeys offered a once-in-a- lifetime experience with their Living in France program. The hotel/apartment was perfect for a long stay, the tour director was exceptional, provided meals were very good and excursions were hosted by knowledgeable local experts. Although I traveled with a friend this time, this kind of tour makes single travelers very welcome. I will be going on another Smithsonian tour! 

- Deborah W.

If you want one of the greatest experiences of a lifetime take this trip. You will see things you could have never thought possible. It will change your life. It has mine.

- Lynn Marie L.

The Living in France tour gave us the opportunity to get to know a very beautiful and fascinating region. The length of the stay meant that we could set our own pace and have many wonderful experiences without feeling rushed.

- Lawrence R.

Aix-en-Provence captured my heart with its beauty, historical charm, walkability, and friendly people. The Smithsonian Journeys Program is so well organized and well managed that the traveler can relax, absorb and enjoy the culture and language. The hotel is well located within walking distance of everything, with nice accommodations and very friendly staff. 

- Janice S.

JOURNEYS DISPATCHES

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Overview

Expectations: Three-week-long stay in Aix-en-Provence. This immersion stay features accommodations in a centrally located apartment, within walking distance to shops, restaurants, and program activities. Program includes three full-day excursions outside the city as well as walking tours and museum tours in Aix. In addition, each Enrichment Track involves different walking tours and activities in and beyond the city. Walking tours may entail uneven terrain (e.g. cobblestones, city hills, stairs without handrails, absence of elevators); archaeological sites; and some longer walks to get to city centers where coaches are prohibited. This program is geared for the independent traveler who will enjoy pursuing their own interests, making meal plans independently (either solo or with other travelers) and finding their way to activities independently. (Your Smithsonian Journeys  Resident Director is always available to assist with plans.) 

Appropriate for: Travelers who are physically fit and comfortable with longer days of touring (both walking tours and coach time).

Smithsonian Journeys offered a once-in-a- lifetime experience with their Living in France program. The hotel/apartment was perfect for a long stay, the tour director was exceptional, provided meals were very good and excursions were hosted by knowledgeable local experts. Although I traveled with a friend this time, this kind of tour makes single travelers very welcome. I will be going on another Smithsonian tour! 

- Deborah W.

If you want one of the greatest experiences of a lifetime take this trip. You will see things you could have never thought possible. It will change your life. It has mine.

- Lynn Marie L.

The Living in France tour gave us the opportunity to get to know a very beautiful and fascinating region. The length of the stay meant that we could set our own pace and have many wonderful experiences without feeling rushed.

- Lawrence R.

Aix-en-Provence captured my heart with its beauty, historical charm, walkability, and friendly people. The Smithsonian Journeys Program is so well organized and well managed that the traveler can relax, absorb and enjoy the culture and language. The hotel is well located within walking distance of everything, with nice accommodations and very friendly staff. 

- Janice S.

Itinerary

Days 1–2 — Depart the U.S. for Marseille, France

Depart on an overnight flight to Marseille, where you'll be met for the transfer to your centrally located apartment/hotel in the town of Aix-en-Provence. You'll receive a welcome package containing general information about the town, as well as a map of the town. Your resident director will be available throughout the program to help with logistics during your free time and make recommendations about sightseeing, restaurants, and independent activities. In the evening, gather with fellow travelers to celebrate the start of your Provençal stay with a welcome reception and dinner at a local restaurant. (R,D)

Day 3 — Aix-en-Provence

After a continental breakfast at the hotel, meet a local expert for an engaging introduction to Aix-en-Provence and the history and cultural heritage of Provence. Then head into the streets of Aix on a walking tour, visiting important sites as well as shops and pharmacies that you might use during your stay. After lunch together at a popular local restaurant, the remainder of the day is yours to get better acquainted with Aix. (B,L)

Day 4 — Aix-en-Provence

Enjoy a full free day to explore the city on your own, perhaps starting with a stroll beneath the plane trees along the famous Cours Mirabeau. Those who chose the Culinary track will set off on a food-themed tour of town, seeing where locals shop, browsing the produce market, and enjoying tastings along the way. End the outing with a picnic lunch. (B)

Optional Culinary Track 2.1: Food tour and picnic 

Day 5 — The Luberon

Embark on a day trip to the fabled Luberon, a picturesque mountain region blanketed with lavender fields and vineyards and dotted with timeless villages. Stroll through the antique markets at Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and linger for lunch on your own. Visit the Lavender Museum, housed in a charming dry-stone farmhouse, and examine the herb's significance from the 16th century to the present day. Continue to Roussillon, where the buildings are a colorful array of yellows, oranges, browns, and reds, pigments drawn from the ancient ochre deposits in the region's earth.  Take in views of the hilltop village of Gordes and the surrounding landscape before returning to Aix-en-Provence.

Day 6 — Aix-en-Provence

Today is yours to immerse yourself in the daily rituals of life in Provence. You might meet new friends for a café au lait and a croissant, relax with a book in park, or take a walk in a neighborhood you haven't discovered yet. 

If you selected the French Language track, you’ll begin the day with a tour of your language school to meet the staff and begin French lessons.

Gather this evening for dinner at a local restaurant. (D)

Optional French Language Track 1.1: School tour and French language class

Day 7 – Aix-en-Provence

Those who chose the Language track begin the day with a morning French class. Meet fellow travelers for lunch at a local bistro. If you enrolled in the Art and Culture track, join a guided visit to the Musée Granet, one of the most acclaimed art museums in the south of France. For those who did not opt for a track, the day is yours to pursue your own interests. (L)

Optional French Language Track 1.2: French class

Optional Art and Culture Track 3.1:  Musée Granet tour 

Day 8 – Aix-en-Provence

Participants in the Art and Culture track will take a day trip to the remarkable abbeys and castles of Provence. Head to the Bouches-du-Rhône region to visit Silvacane Abbey, a 12th-century Cistercian monastery. Return by way of the Luberon, stopping in the charming town of Lourmarin, the burial place of Albert Camus, for a visit to its castle. Enjoy lunch at leisure in the village of Lourmarin. Otherwise, take advantage of another free day to soak up the ambiance of Aix-en-Provence.

Optional Art and Culture Track 3.2: Silvacane Abbey and Lourmarin Castle excursion

Day 9 – Aix-en-Provence

Language students head to school for another morning French lesson today. After the remainder of the day at leisure, join fellow travelers in the early evening for a presentation on the art of Provence by a local expert, followed by dinner at a local restaurant. (D)

Optional French Language Track 1.3: French lesson

Day 10 – Aix-en-Provence

Start the day with a French class for those pursuing the Language track. If you have opted for the Culinary track, enjoy an afternoon lesson in the basics of French cuisine. Attend an engaging lecture, and then roll up your sleeves for a cooking class, and concocting typical Provençal dishes with a local chef. Then savor the meal you've prepared. For all others, the day is yours to explore on your own. (D for Culinary track participants)

Optional French Language Track 1.4: French lesson

Optional Culinary Track 2.2: Cooking class and dinner 

Day 11 – Aix-en-Provence

Head into the fruit and vegetable markets if you wish this morning and spend the rest of the day pursuing your interests. Travelers on the Art and Culture track will delve into the world of one of Aix's most famous sons with a visit to Paul Cézanne's studio and home. Take in views of the iconic Mont Saint Victoire, one of the artist's favorite subjects. Travel is by local transport. Gather in the evening for dinner at a local restaurant. (D)

Optional Art and Culture Track 3.3: Paul Cézanne's studio visit

Day 12 – Avignon and Pont du Gard

Set out on a group excursion to Avignon, perched on the banks of the Rhône River. Tour the remarkable Palace of the Popes, a World Heritage site comprised of two building with very different styles. The austere Old Palace was built by the dour Pope Benedict XII and the New Palace was built by the jovial Pope Clement VI and decorated in accordance with his personality.

After lunch in Avignon, continue to another World Heritage site: the extraordinary Roman Aqueduct Pont du Gard, built in the first century over the Gardon River. (L)

Day 13 – Aix-en-Provence

French lessons continue this morning for those enrolled in the Language track. Everyone is invited to meet for lunch at a local restaurant. In the late afternoon, spend some time in the Smithsonian Journeys Travelers Corner to exchange experiences. (L)

Optional French Language Track 1.5: French lesson

Day 14 – Aix-en-Provence

Language students attend another morning French class. If you chose the Culinary track, meet up to make a traditional three-course meal featuring popular French and Provençal specialties. Afterward, sit down to enjoy the meal you’ve created. Travelers not taking part in the enrichment tracks will have the day free.

Optional French Language Track 1.6: French lesson

Optional Culinary Track 2.3: Cooking class and meal 

Day 15 – Aix-en-Provence

Enjoy an unscheduled day in Aix, or, if you are on the Art and Culture Track, take a day trip to Arles. Explore the city's historic and cultural landmarks including the Roman Amphitheater, the Musée d’Arles, and the Romanesque Cathedral of Ste. Trôphime.​ Meander along cobbled streets immortalized by van Gogh and stop for lunch on your own. 

Optional Art and Culture Track 3.4: Arles excursion

Day 16 – Aix-en-Provence

Language students head to school for a French lesson in the morning. The balance of the day is free of planned activities. In the evening, gather for dinner at a popular local restaurant. (D)

Optional French Language Track 1.7: French lesson

Day 17 – Aix-en-Provence

French language instruction continues this morning. For all others, the day is at leisure to explore on your own.

Optional French Language Track 1.8: French lesson

Day 18 – Aix-en-Provence

The entire day is free of planned activities. Let your interests be your guide and explore Aix and the surrounding region your own. Your Smithsonian Journeys Resident Director will be able to assist with planning independent activities.

Day 19 – Marseille

Set out on a full-day excursion to Marseille. See the city’s attractions and marvel at the panoramic views from the hilltop Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica. Tour the oldest quarter of Marseille known as Le Panier and spend time people-watching with an espresso or a glass of wine at one of the outdoor cafes. Gather for lunch at a harbor-side restaurant. (L)

Day 20 – Aix-en-Provence

Students attend their morning French lesson. Those enrolled in the Art and Culture track will embark on a tour of the city's many fountains and private courtyards. Aix-en-Provence is renowned for its many fountains, and each has a story to tell. Venture into the courtyards of private mansions and along the Cours Mirabeau to take a closer look.

This evening, meet up in the Smithsonian Journeys Travelers Corner at a local cafe to share stories from your time in Aix. 

Optional French Language Track 1.9: French lesson

Optional Art and Culture Track 3.5: Aix fountain and courtyard tour

Day 21 – Aix-en-Provence

Attend your final French lesson this morning. Culinary track participants gather with a local expert to learn how best to pair French cheese and wine—enjoying tastings of each during the lesson. Those not enrolled in either track have another free day immersed in Provence. 

Optional French Language Track 1.10: French lesson

Optional Culinary Track 2.4: Cheese and wine pairing lesson

Day 22 – Aix-en-Provence

Your final morning and afternoon in Aix-en-Provence are free of planned activities so you can pay a last visit to your favorite spots or discover a new part of the town. Tonight, gather with fellow Smithsonian Journeys Travelers to toast your time in Provence at a festive farewell reception and dinner at one of Aix’s popular restaurants. (R,D)

Day 23 – Depart for the U.S.

After an early breakfast, depart the hotel and transfer to Marseille Provence International Airport for your return flight(B)

Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change due to operational considerations. All excursions involve an element of walking, standing and climbing steps. 

Included meals are denoted as follows: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Reception (R), Dinner (D)

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