Outdoor Adventures in Provence: Paris, Marseille & Moustiers-Sainte-Marie - 8 Days

Highlights

• See spectacular views of Paris at night with an evening cruise on the Seine
• Discover the neighborhoods and historic sites of Paris and Marseille via e-bike 
• Explore the underwater world of Calanques National Park on a guided snorkel tour
• Raft the blue-green waters and scale the canyon walls of the Verdon Gorge

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Paris, Evening on the Seine

Welcome to France! Your flight lands in the capital city of Paris, otherwise known as the "City of Lights." This thriving metropolis blends far-reaching history with modern vibes, featuring ancient architecture alongside chic cafés, world-class museums, and high-end shopping. Upon arrival, you'll be met by your private driver and transferred to your hotel. Once you've checked in and had a chance to get settled, you're free to relax or step out for some sightseeing on your own. 

Start your self-guided tour with a visit to the Jardin du Luxembourg, inspired by the Florentine garden of Boboli and created on the initiative of Queen Marie de Médicis in 1612. Encompassing just over 60 acres (25 ha) the garden is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe and is divided into French and English sections, with more than 100 statues scattered throughout. It's also home to the Medici fountain, the Orangery, and the Davioud Pavilion.

Go shopping at stores such as Lafayette and Printemps, featuring top local designers, and small boutiques offering unique, high-quality wares. Art lovers may also want to check out some of Paris' smaller museums, as the city has one of the most impressive art collections in the world. Tonight, enjoy an evening cruise on the Seine, with sparkling city views illuminated against the night sky. Pass by iconic monuments such as the Eiffel Tower, the Musée du Louvre, and the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, learning more about them via informative audio commentary on your smartphone. 

Day 2: Free Morning in Paris, Guided E-Bike Exploration or Marais Pastry Tour

Start today with some self-guided exploration, checking off some classic Parisian landmarks. Start with a stroll through the Jardin des Tuileries, which sits between the Musée du Louvre and Place de la Concorde, with manicured lawns and statues from Maillo, Rodin, and Giacometti. Then, step inside "Le Louvre" to browse the world's most revered artistic works, including the "Mona Lisa," "Venus de Milo," and the work of masters such as Géricault and Delacroix. 

Next, head to the Trocadero Esplanade, an open space with several fountains and exceptional views of the Eiffel Tower, and continue to the tower itself. Built by Gustave Eiffel as a temporary exhibit for the 1889 World's Fair, this 1,049-foot (320 m) spire has stood the test of time, and now, no one could imagine Paris without it. Purchase your access tickets and ascend to the second floor for panoramic city views, then continue to the summit for even better views! 

For Paris' lesser-known sites, consider an e-bike tour this afternoon. Meet your guide and follow them along the Seine and up to the Montagne Sainte-Geneviève. Hear stories about Paris' monuments as you ride through neighborhoods such as Saint-Germain-des-Près, uncovering romantic spots, quiet bridges, and trendy cafés. Alternatively, foodies can take a walking tour of the Marais district, home to Paris' best pastry and chocolate shops. Sample decadent treats while you explore this colorful neighborhood.

Day 3: Train to Marseille, Catamaran Cruise in Calanques National Park

Your next destination is one of the oldest cities in France: Marseille, or "Massalia," to its friends. This colorful port on the Mediterranean coast has more than 2,600 years of history and is an extraordinary mix of old and new, as well as being a gateway to Calanques National Park. Check out of your Paris hotel and make your way to the train station, where you'll hop on a high-speed train for the scenic 3.5-hour journey. Arrive and get settled at your accommodations, then do some sightseeing on your own. 

For coastal views, take a boat ride to the Frioul archipelago, located just 2.5 miles (4 km) off the coast and comprised of three islands: Pomegues, Ratonneau, and Tiboulen. You can also stop by Château d'If, a fortress that was the inspiration for the famous novel of Alexandre Dumas, "The Count of Monte Cristo." Or, if you'd rather stay in town, take a walk through the Notre-Dame du Mont and Cours Julien neighborhoods, get lost in the Panier, Marseille's oldest district, or visit the Noailles neighborhood, where you'll feel like you've landed in the souks (markets) of Africa and Asia.

This evening, set out on a sunset catamaran tour of Calanques National Park. Make your way to the port and board your boat, traveling along the Marseille and Calanques coastline. Cruise past sheer limestone cliffs that rise above the turquoise waters of the park, with visits to creeks such as the Sormiou or Calanque d'En Vau. Take in the glittering lights of Marseille in the distance as you sip delicious Champagne or wine, snack on local treats, and listen to your favorite tunes on the boat's state-of-the-art soundtrack system. 

Day 4: Snorkel or Kayak in Calanques National Park, Discover Cassis

See more of Calanques National Park today with a guided snorkeling tour. Visit the harbor of La Pointe Rouge, where you'll meet your guide and get a safety and equipment briefing, then head into the park. With your expert instructor by your side, visit spots where the park's colorful marine life congregates, taking in the incredible underwater world of Calanques. See a wide variety of fish or dolphins—even the occasional octopus or turtle. Learn the secrets and history of this region, coming away with a better understanding of the park's history.

For a different view of the park, you can also opt for a kayaking tour. Depart in the morning with your guide and visit the park's hidden coves and bays, paddling through crystalline water with the cliffs rising on either side. Many areas in the park are only accessible by boat, so you can enjoy the beauty of the Calanques in relative quiet, away from the tourist crowds.

Later today, visit the town of Cassis, an old-world village that sits right on the edge of the park. Wander the lively food market for traditional and regional goods, perhaps assembling a picnic lunch to take to the nearby beach. Stroll along the port, climb the nearby hills for views of the bay, and stop by a local vineyard for a tasting of delicious rosé and white wines. Cassis is also home to several excellent seafood restaurants, with the fresh catches of the day making a perfect dinner. 

Day 5: Tour Marseille via E-Bike, Transfer to Moustiers Sainte-Marie, Explore

Your final morning in Marseille takes you on a guided e-bike tour around the city. Meet your guide after breakfast and, after a safety and equipment briefing, begin your ride to sites such as the Cathédrale La Major, a 19th-century basilica and the seat for the Archdiocese, and the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MUCEM). Visit the Old Port, see Napoleon III's Pharo Palace, and take in the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, while your guide shares historical anecdotes and legends about each place. 

Afterward, it's time for a road trip as you pick up a rental car and drive roughly two hours northeast to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a picturesque hillside village located in Verdon Natural Regional Park. Arrive and get settled at your hotel, then set out on foot to see more of this charming town. Start at the city center, climbing stairs and traversing narrow pathways for views of the countryside and nearby Lac de Sainte-Croix. You can also head to the lake for a stroll along the shoreline—the lake is swimmable so you can take a refreshing dip if the weather is warm. Return to your hotel in time for dinner and relaxation.

Day 6: Raft the Verdon River, Canyoneering & Mountain Biking Adventures

Kick off the day with a rafting trip on the stunning waters of the Verdon River, traveling through a canyon that runs 31 miles (50 km) and reaches more than 2,200 feet (700 m) in depth. Meet your driver and head to Castellane, located approximately 28 miles (45 km) from Moustiers. Receive paddling instructions as well as a safety and equipment briefing from your expert guides, then raft through the mighty Verdon Gorge. Paddle along blue-green waters and immense canyon walls, alternating between serene channels and adrenaline-fueled rapids. End back at Castellane for lunch and a walk around town.

Those interested in a more personal experience with the canyon and river can also take a canyoneering excursion. Start at a tributary of the river, embarking on a wild hike that includes jumps, natural waterslides, swimming breaks, and culminates in an abseiling adventure involving a 98-foot (10 m) descent. Visitors should keep in mind that this tour does involve heights and would be best enjoyed by those who don't mind being in high areas. 

Later, you'll have the option of a mountain biking tour around nearby Lac de Montpezat. Meet your guide and ride bikes along the trails and roads of inland Provence. You can choose different trails based on fitness and skill levels, traveling through a variety of terrain as you go. The lake has a swimming area if you'd like to stop, as well as shaded grassy beaches that are perfect for a snack break. 

Day 7: Drive the Valensole Plateau to Aix-en-Provence, Train to Paris

This morning, you'll turn south again to make your way to Aix-en-Provence, but not before you experience one of Provence's most famous regions—the Valensole Plateau. Every summer, the fields in this part of Provence come alive with vivid displays of blooming lavender. Drive along the fields, noticing the contrast of the lavender against adjacent golden wheat, stopping for photo ops and taking a guided tour if you'd like. 

Continue to a plateau where locals cultivate and harvest Damask roses and other aromatic plants, picking them by hand and distilling them into essential oils, floral waters, and lotions. Learn about the distillation process and the timelines for harvest, and perhaps create your own fragrant concoctions! 

After taking your time to explore this perfect slice of Provence, continue an hour south to Aix to drop off your rental car and board a train back to Paris. Depending on your timing, you could head straight to your hotel on arrival or squeeze in a little more Parisian sightseeing in the afternoon. Tonight, consider ending your trip on a high note with a hot-air balloon ride on the Ballon de Paris, which soars 500 feet (150 m) above the city. 

Day 8: Depart Paris

Your Paris and Provence adventure draws to a close today. After one last café au lait and croissant, meet your driver and transfer to the airport for your departing flight. Au revoir! 

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