Start your day with a tour of Avignon, characterized by medieval architecture and winding streets. The medieval ramparts are collectively a UNESCO World Heritage Site and include the Pont d'Avignon, the Avignon Cathedral, and the Palais de Papes, an 14th century for which skip-the-line admission tickets are recommended.

Take an afternoon tour of Provence’s countryside. If you visit during the summer months, you’ll get to see lavender fields in full bloom, particularly if you make your way northwest from Avignon towards the Vaucluse area.  

Spend the evening in Aix-en Provence, where a pedestrian-friendly city center lends itself well to walking tours. As night begins to fall, grab a terrace seat at one of the many brasseries or restaurants lining the city's main Cours Mirabeau promenade.

Spend your second day visiting Cassis and Marseilles as part of a day trip, which saves you the hassle of car hire. The fishing town of Cassis offers both cultural attractions and activities for nature lovers; there are plenty of half- and full-day tours here from Marseilles. Just outside of town sits Cap Canaille, the highest sea cliff in France, with beautiful Mediterranean views. 

In the afternoon, head to Marseilles; some tours stop in the Vieux Port area for lunch, where seafood bouillabaisse is a specialty. After lunch, head down to the sands of Catalans Beach for a seaside stroll or make your way up to the Pavillion, famous for its mirrored ceiling.

As day turns to night, set sail on a sunset dinner cruise along the Mediterranean. If you have energy when you return to shore, go dancing or grab a nightcap at one of Marseille’s many late-night clubs and bars.