9 Day South of France Tour
Signature Tour: Provence & Occitanie Like a Local
Explore the best of the South of France during our 9 day tour along with expert local guides! With stops including quaint French villages, medieval castles, wineries and the beautiful region of Provence, this is a complete and diversified trip that you will never forget. Oh and you will be staying for 9 nights in the same hotel by the Mediterranean sea. Now that's a true vacation!
2024 Calendar
Groups of 14 people maximum, make sure to reserve your spot early!
2024
Tour 1: Tuesday April 30th to Thursday May 9th, 2024 > (8 SPOTS LEFT) >
April 30th tour: Julia owner of TripUSAFrance will be your tour leader!
Tour 2: Tuesday May 14th to Thursday May 23rd, 2024 > (2 SPOTS LEFT) >
Tour 3: Tuesday May 28th to Thursday June 6th, 2024 > (4 SPOTS LEFT) >
Tour 4: Tuesday June 11th to Thursday June 20th, 2024 > (10 SPOTS LEFT) >
July Tours: Available here - Check out the Special Lavender variant
Tour 5: Tuesday August 27th to Thursday Sept. 5th, 2024 > (12 SPOTS LEFT) >
Tour 6: Tuesday Sept. 10th to Thursday Sept. 19th, 2024 > (4 SPOTS LEFT) >
Tour 7: Tuesday Sept. 24th to Thursday October 3rd, 2024 > (6 SPOTS LEFT) >
Most of our Normandy tours and South of France tours can be combined! Simply book the South of France tour starting the day your Normandy tour ends and book your train or flight to Montpellier from Paris to be picked up in the afternoon before the tour starts with the Welcome dinner!
Most of our Normandy tours and South of France tours can be combined! Simply book the South of France tour starting the day your Normandy tour ends and book your train or flight to Montpellier from Paris to be picked up in the afternoon before the tour starts with the Welcome dinner!
Special Lavender Tour
Only happening in July
Lavender Field, Sault, Provence (July 2022)
JULY TOURS: Special departure dates to see the Lavender fields of Sault in Provence and the villages of Gordes and Roussillon. This is a different tour!
Sites & Activites Included
Not only the most famous sites but also many hidden gems that others are missing out on!
Les Baux de Provence
This marvelous Provençal village is settled in the middle of the Alpilles regional park and is officially classified and labeled as "one of the most beautiful villages of France". The landscape and the beauty of the village is breathtaking and its cultural heritage is » Read More exceptionally rich with 22 architectural treasures classified as "Historic Monuments". Some of the monuments are the castle at the top of the hill, the church, the houses, and the town-hall. After a guided tour followed by lunch you will have some free time to shop all the Provencal goods at the many quaint boutiques here in the village. » Close
Lavender Field (TOUR 4 ONLY)
If you are joining our tour in June you will have the chance to see the lavender, the emblem of Provence. We will stop at one local lavender field where you will be able to get the perfect Provence picture. This field is located in the lowlands and therefore blooms » Read More earlier in the season. If you want to experience lavender even more we recommend that you join our Special Lavender 9 day tour where you will be able to visit the region of Sault very well known for its lavender fields and join a workshop where after picking up some lavender we will make our own lavender essential oil to take home with us! > See here our July Special Lavender tour here. » Close
Avignon
One of the most beautiful cities of France and former home to 7 successive Popes. Avignon preserved its history exceptionally well which is why it is a must see and so many of its artifacts are registered on the UNESCO world heritage list, » Read More including the Palace of the Popes. Some other locations in the city that made the UNESCO list are the Bridge of Avignon (XII), the square of the palace with the baroque facade of the hotel of currencies, the museum of the Petit Palais and the cathedral of Doms, as well as the ramparts and the garden of Doms.. » Close
French Picnic & Petanque
Often described as the most fun part of the tour, our gourmet French picnic catered by Cathy, Julia's mother, will be an opportunity for you to see the real French way of life. Some music, wine and delicious food for a memorable moment. Finish this fun experience by learning how to play Pétanque, the » Read More traditional backyard game played all around the South of France. After that you can definitely say that you are a true local! » Close
Palavas-les-Flots
Your home base for 9 nights, this bustling little fisherman village on the edge of the Mediterranean is the oldest French vacation beach town. There is much to do here at day and night. Since it is not known internationally the town preserves its culture and authenticity and the locals are not overwhelmed » Read More with crowds. Because of this, the people here are friendly and enjoy welcoming tourists, which makes Palavas the perfect location for you to mix with the locals during your 9 day tour, not to mention your home base hotel is steps away from the beach! The French first started to come to Palavas in 1850 to enjoy the sea. Today the warm and cozy downtown of Palavas is still a main attraction for French tourists.  » Close
French Market
Palavas's French market on Friday morning, located right in front of your hotel, is also a great place where you can immerse yourself with the locals. You will have time to wander around and buy some fresh fruits, street food or simply watch the locals do their weekly grocery shopping. There are also artisans on » Read More site selling their goods so you may find a couple of souvenirs! And don't forget your camera to photograph the colorful essence that the South has to offer. » Close
Carcassonne Fortified City
This UNESCO-listed castle is sure to take your breath away with its massive walls spanning 1.9 miles and 52 defensive towers overlooking the rest of the city. With 2000 years of history, the medieval city, used as a filming location for the movie Robin Hood, is a » Read More heaven for architectural lovers. The church hidden behind these glorious walls was blessed in 1096 by Pope Urban II. The building combines both Gothic and Roman styles which makes it unique holds splendid stained glasses. » Close
Pont du Gard
The Pont du Gard is one of the greatest masterpieces of ancient architecture. Almost 2000 years old and still standing, this aqueduct was built to supply the city of Nîmes with running water. This awe-inspiring human achievement is registered as a UNESCO » Read More world heritage site as well. The major arch gap at 25 meters high is one of the largest ever built by the Romans. The magnificence of this site is the remembrance of the powerful Roman empire. » Close
St Guilhem le Desert
A favorite on our tour, every time! Frozen in time, this medieval village, rich with history and legends, is tucked away in a lush valley. As a stop on the Santiago de Compostela road, this enchanting hidden gem takes us back in time with its cobblestone
» Read More
streets, blooming flower-filled windows, and the soothing sound of the clear spring that flows through. You will get to learn all about the fascinating history, visit the UNESCO-listed Abbey of Gellone and find the perfect South France souvenir at one of the local artisan boutiques.
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Arles & Van Gogh
Famous for its Roman monuments recognized by UNESCO and being the place where Van Gogh called home for over 1 year and produced over 300 paintings. During your visit of Arles you will see the Roman monuments of the city while doing the  » Read More Van Gogh city walking tour to discover the places by which Vincent was inspired. We will also stop by the Vincent Van Gogh Foundation to see the current exihbition! » Close
St-Paul-de-Mausole & Van Gogh
The marvelously preserved Saint Paul de Mausole monastary was built in the 11th century and is well known for being a sanctuary for Vincent Van Gogh in his troubled time and its beautiful architecture of the Provençal Romansque style. » Read More The natural surroundings and the monastery complement each other's beauty to create a peaceful and inspiring sanctuary. It is here where Van Gogh recovered from his mental illness which caused him to cut off his ear and was inspired to create several famous works of art during his stay. Near his room by the cloister's walk, an art therapy workshop has been created by the association Valetudo which brings together art, research and treatment. From the top of the stairs you can see the wheat field that Van Gogh contemplated and painted during his year of confinement in the men's pavilion. » Close
Les Carrières de Lumières
One of the highlights of our tour, the Carrières Lumières is an art venue set in an old quarry that displays spectacular art shows with music and images of famous paintings displayed on the walls. The 2021 exhibition featured the works of » Read More Cezanne, painter from Provence, one of the greatest of the Post-Impressionists! Each year a new show is on display and is usually announced in December the year before. » Close
Nîmes
Nicknamed the "French Rome", this authentic Southern city holds the finest collection of Roman architecture including a magnificent 2000 year old amphitheater, the most well-preserved Roman temple in the world, and more. Apart from its Roman heritage, Nimes is worth visiting for its attractive city » Read More center and its fantastic garden, Jardin de la Fontaine, which has water flowing through the park and statues guarding since 1745. See our blog post here to discover the fascinating Gallo-Roman history of Nimes. » Close
Montpellier
One of the most vibrant, energetic, and cultural cities in France, Montpellier knows how to adapt to the times by adding fresh styles of architecture while retaining the buildings of the past. You will learn about its University of Medicine (oldest still in activity in Europe), its hidden medieval Jewish ritual bath and » Read More also walk through the grand Place Royal and narrow medieval streets that Montpellier has kept. Finally, after a delicious lunch, you will have some free time to either indulge in Montpellier's finest fashion shopping, visit the Beaux Art museum or simply relax at one of the many cafes in town. With so much to offer, we are sure that you will fall in love with Montpellier, one of the fastest growing cities of France. » Close
Camargue Ranch & Farm Dinner
Here we go into off-the-beaten-path France. The Camargue, located at the Delta of the Rhone river, is a must-see of Southern France. With its flamingoes, rice fields, plains, and ranches where white horses and black bulls roam, it almost feel as we are in a different country. To learn all about the culture and » Read More traditions of the Camargue we will visit a ranch and go for a tractor ride to watch the French cowboys and cowgirls practice herding the famous black bulls before enjoying a convivial meal on site. This activity is also often one of the most loved on the tour! » Close
La Couvertoirade
Another hidden gem of Southern France, originally land of the Templars, La Couvertoirade received the prestigious label of "one of the most beautiful villages of France" and for good reasons! This medieval jewel is nested in the wild, unspoiled » Read More French countryside and will surprise you with its rich history, secret treasures (literally) and the rare ability to walk on the fortified wall of the village! » Close
Roquefort Cheese Cave
Centuries ago in the quaint village of Roquefort, a famous blue cheese was born. Artisans discovered the unique process of aging cheese for months in underground caves where it develops a rich flavor. We will take you into the caves to see for yourself » Read More and learn how it is done. After the visit enjoy a tasting of Roquefort cheese, officially known as ‘the king of cheeses! » Close
Aigues Mortes
A location with 1200 years of history. The city was built by King Louis the IX, also known as Saint Louis, in order to serve as the first port in Southern France and home base for launching the 7th and 8th Crusades. The tall fortified walls and marsh » Read More surrounding this city, defended it during the Middle Ages. Just outside the walls you can see the massive salt producing marshes where salt has been farmed since the Roman times. It is here that the delicious Fleur de Sel salt is being harvested. The interesting part about Aigues-Mortes is that still today there is a village inside. The community is very active and this place is not reserved for tourists only. In fact, there is a high chance that we will have our farewell dinner here at a restaurant within the wall. » Close
Chateau Exindre
The Chateau is situated on 45 hectares of vineyards and has a long history. Formerly known as Villa d'Exindrio, it was once gifted to the Bishops of Maguelone by King Louis VII, the fertile land has been used for centuries and centuries for winemaking, » Read More olives, and farming, possibly since Roman times. The property has been owned by the current family since the French Revolution. The owners are also passionate winemakers and will take you on a full tour of their winery and let you taste their wines, which have won several medals. » Close
Chateau de Flaugergues
Discover one of the most famous Languedoc winery. The estate is hidden in downtown area of Montpellier and was built for a wealthy aristocrat during the 17th century. Our visit includes a tour of the beautiful garden before learning the wine making process » Read More and of course tasting the fabulous wine produced on site! » Close
Fabre Museum
While in Montpellier, you will have the option to visit the Fabre museum, a wonderful center of arts which houses a wide range of works spanning several time periods and styles in an 18th century building. The collections styles include Impressionism, » Read More Neoclassical, Romantism, Modernism, Contemporary and more etc. All the well-known artists are represented, especially the French. Make sure to contemplate at the Frederic Bazille collection, impressionist painter native of Montpelier. » Close
What's included
Almost everything is included, except your flight and a few dinners
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What's included
Local tour guide (1 or 2 depend on group size)
9 Hotel Nights
9 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 4 Dinners
1 Homemade French Picnic & 1 Camargue Ranch Bbq (included in the dinners)
1 drink with each lunch and 2 drinks with each dinner (wine, beer or soft)
Daily Cold Water & Snacks
All Entry Fees
All Activities Listed & Guided Tours
2 Wine Tastings
Transportation to All Sites / Activities
Pick up & Drop off from/to MPL Airport or Train Station
What's not included
Transportation to and from Montpellier, France
Extra Food/Drinks not included in our Selected Menus
Your Personal Laundry
5 Dinners (restaurants recommendations provided)
Travelers Insurance (you will receive a quote 24hrs after booking)
One Home Base Hotel For 9 Nights
No need to pack & unpack everyday, what a true vacation!
You will spend 9 nights in Palavas-les-Flots, the oldest French beach town where the French started to come on vacation since 1850, at quaint boutique hotel "Les Coquilles". Your hotel is located just steps away from the Mediterranean Sea and is a great place to relax after our daily trips. The beach town offers great activities, that you can experience on your free time such as shopping, bars, restaurants, the casino, the beach, water sports, boat rides, mini golf, gorgeous parks, farmer's market, the fair, concerts, fireworks etc... We selected the best hotel in town by the beach for you to enjoy your trip in the best way possible. No need to pack and unpack everyday, that's definitely a true vacation!
Hotel Les Coquilles, Palavas-lès-Flots
9 Day South of France Tour Price
No suprises, no hidden fees. Travel hassle-free!
SINGLE ROOM
USD $4,889/PERSON
BASED ON 1 PERSON PER ROOM
9 HOTEL NIGHTS INCLUDED
9 BREAKFAST + 9 LUNCH + 4 DINNERS
ALL VISITS INCLUDED
LOCAL GUIDES
2 ADULTS ROOM
USD $4,489/PERSON
BASED ON 2 PERSONS PER ROOM
9 HOTEL NIGHTS INCLUDED
9 BREAKFAST + 9 LUNCH + 4 DINNERS
ALL VISITS INCLUDED
LOCAL GUIDES
PRIVATE GROUP
Group Price
10+ PRIVATIZE YOUR TOUR
CUSTOMIZED TOUR
WE CAN TAILOR FOR YOU
THE PERFECT TOUR
ACCORDING TO
YOUR BUDGET
Rated 5/5 Tour By Our Previous Travelers
They have already done this tour. Read what they thought about it.
Tim S.
"We have traveled extensively throughout Europe and France, but had never been to Montpelier and its environs. TripUsaFrance has put together a wonderful tour of medieval cities, castles, cathedrals, and countrysides. Having a beautiful seaside town and a brand new hotel as our base was icing on the cake. The sights and activities were awesome. Of particular note were the sound and light show of Chagall paintings and the cooking school. And hosts Julia and Stephane couldn't have been nicer. They went out of their way to make sure everyone in our group (ages 35 to 92) had a great time."
Debra T. Â
"This was the first time my husband and I had travelled to France. We could not have been in better hands. We felt like we were treated as family friends, with accommodations fit for royalty. We saw so many wonderful places [...] We also saw local citizens of Palavas jousting from hand-rowed boats in the canal - amazing! Add in the chance to meet wonderful people at a picnic on the beach and at a cooking lesson (paella-yum!) in a private home - what more could we ask for?"
Anita S.Â
"This tour was better than I could even imagine. [...] We loved staying in one hotel for the entire week (and it was a wonderful and clean hotel with kind and helpful hosts on the beach!). We loved every place we visited, from ruins to villages to picturesque towns and countryside. And the choice of restaurants was delicious! The other guests were wonderful also. Julia was fun and entertaining and easily answered our many questions as well as teaching us so much about the area. Her dad was kind and helpful and her husband and mom made us all feel like one big happy family! I will forever treasure our memories from this best vacation ever!"
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