Provence in Depth

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.

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).

Arles is 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.