Churches of Provence and French Countryside Private Tour

Nice , France

Churches of Provence and French Countryside Private Tour

Active

(3 reviews)

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Visit Thoronet Abbey, the Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene in the Provence region. Enjoy the Papal Palace in Avignon and enjoy a delicious lunch in a local restaurant on a private day tour.

Don't miss this unique full-day experience with a professional driver/guide aboard a comfortable and recent vehicle who will pick you up and drop you off at your accommodation.

All the programs of our private tours can be modified according to your wishes, do not hesitate to organize your day with your guide and ask him for suggestions.

Available options

Churches of Provence and French Countryside Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Transport in a recent and comfortable vehicle

Private Driver/Guide for the full day

Accomodation pickup and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Start with pickup from your accomodation where you will meet your private guide. Travel to the first site of religious significance on the tour, Thoronet Abbey. Known as the jewel of Cistercian abbeys, it was constructed between 1160 and 1230. Discover the beauty of the abbey's architecture, the cloister, and the perfectly preserved conventual buildings from the 12th century.

Drive to St Maxim and visit the famous Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene. Explore the largest Gothic church in Provence, which hosts the relics of Mary Magdalene. These relics received official recognition from the Catholic church in 1281. Charles II of Anjou, Count of Provence, decided with the approval and encouragement of Pope Boniface VIII, to build a magnificent basilica in the honor of the saint.

Stop 3

Continue towards the city of Avignon and discover the amazing Palace of the Popes. The wealth and the glitter of the pontifical court vanished a long time ago, but the palace still is a monument to papal power in centuries past. Wander through the large halls and rooms of the Palais vieux, the Grand Tinel, the Consistoire, as well as the private rooms of the Popes who were resident here.

Enjoy some free time for a lunch at your own expense before driving back to your accomodation.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

DE PT EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 1.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Nice

Nice, the crown jewel of the French Riviera, is renowned for its pebble beaches, vibrant markets, and charming old town. With its Mediterranean climate, stunning coastal views, and rich cultural heritage, it's a destination that perfectly blends relaxation and exploration.

Top Attractions

Promenade des Anglais

This iconic seaside promenade stretches along the Baie des Anges and is a must-visit for its stunning views and vibrant atmosphere.

Beach/Walk 1-2 hours Free

Vieux Nice (Old Town)

The Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with markets, churches, and restaurants. It's a great place to soak up the local atmosphere.

Historical/Cultural Half day Free to explore

Castle Hill (Colline du Château)

This hill offers panoramic views of Nice and the Mediterranean. It's a great spot for a picnic or a romantic walk.

Historical/Nature 1-2 hours Free

Musée Matisse

This museum is dedicated to the works of Henri Matisse, one of Nice's most famous residents. It's a must-visit for art lovers.

Museum 1-2 hours €10

Musée Marc Chagall

This museum is dedicated to the works of Marc Chagall, another famous artist who lived in Nice. It's a great place to learn about his life and work.

Museum 1-2 hours €10

Must-Try Local Dishes

Salade Niçoise

A classic Niçoise salad made with tuna, olives, tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and anchovies.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and eggs

Socca

A thin, crispy chickpea pancake, a popular street food in Nice.

Snack Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free

Pissaladière

A Niçoise tart made with caramelized onions, anchovies, and olives.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood

Ratatouille

A traditional Provençal stew made with vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan

Popular Activities

Hiking in Mont Boron Scuba diving in the Mediterranean Beach lounging Picnicking in Castle Hill Visiting museums Exploring the Old Town Swimming Boat tours

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and sunny skies. The beaches are crowded, and the city is lively with festivals and events.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English, Italian
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Nice is generally safe, but like any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Keep your belongings secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

Nice Côte d'Azur Airport • 6.5 km from city center

By train

Nice Ville

By bus

Nice Airport, Nice Ville Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The tram system is modern, efficient, and a great way to get around Nice. It operates from early morning to late evening.

Taxis

Available • Apps: G7, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Vieux Nice (Old Town) Cimiez Liberation Mont Boron

Day trips

Monaco

20 km • Half day to full day

Monaco is a glamorous city-state known for its luxury shopping, casinos, and the famous Monte Carlo Casino. It's a great day trip for those looking for a taste of the high life.

Cannes

30 km • Half day to full day

Cannes is a glamorous seaside town known for its luxury shopping, beaches, and the famous Cannes Film Festival. It's a great day trip for those looking for a taste of the high life.

Èze

15 km • Half day

Èze is a charming medieval village perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean. It's known for its narrow streets, stunning views, and the famous Exotic Garden.

Festivals

Nice Carnival • February Nice Jazz Festival • July Fête de la Musique • June 21

Pro tips

Visit the Cours Saleya Market in the morning for the best selection of fresh produce and flowers
Take a day trip to Èze for stunning views and a charming medieval village
Explore the Old Town on foot to discover hidden gems and local shops
Try the local specialties, like socca and pan bagnat, at the street food stalls
Visit the museums in Cimiez, like the Musée Matisse and the Musée Marc Chagall, for a dose of culture