Welcome to Marseille, the gateway to the stunning Provence region! Upon arrival at Marseille Provence Airport, head to the rental car desk to pick up your pre-arranged vehicle. Once you’ve collected your car, set off towards your accommodation in the city. After checking in, take the rest of the day to relax and soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere. Depending on your arrival time, you might want to take a leisurely stroll along the Vieux Port (Old Port), where you can enjoy breathtaking harbor views and try a delicious bowl of bouillabaisse, Marseille’s famous seafood stew. Get a good night’s rest—your Provence adventure begins tomorrow!

Start your day with a drive to Avignon, a city steeped in history and medieval charm. Once you arrive, begin your self-guided exploration at the Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in Europe and a former papal residence. Wander through its 25 grand rooms, including ceremonial halls, chapels, and the private papal apartments adorned with breathtaking frescoes. After lunch in Avignon, drive 20 minutes north to the renowned wine village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Once the summer retreat for Avignon’s popes, today it is one of France’s most famous wine regions. Stroll through its charming streets before visiting a local vineyard.

Start your day with a scenic 1-hour drive from Avignon to Arles, a UNESCO-listed city rich in Roman history and artistic inspiration. Once you arrive, embark on a walking tour of Arles’ most iconic sites. Begin at the Arles Amphitheater (Les Arènes d’Arles), a well-preserved Roman arena dating back nearly 2,000 years. This impressive structure once hosted gladiator battles and still holds events today. Consider using an audio guide or a self-guided tour app (such as the "Arles Tour" app) to learn more about its fascinating past. Next, head to the Roman Theater, another grand structure from antiquity, where open-air performances were held. Continue to the Thermes de Constantin, the remains of an ancient Roman bath complex showcasing the city’s once-thriving social life.

After lunch at a local café, immerse yourself in the world of Vincent van Gogh, who lived in Arles in 1888–1889 and painted some of his most famous works here. Follow the Van Gogh Walking Trail, which leads you to sites that inspired masterpieces like Café Terrace at Night and The Yellow House. Stop by the Espace Van Gogh, a former hospital where the artist stayed, now transformed into a cultural center with a beautiful courtyard.

After a day of exploring, enjoy a relaxed evening strolling through the Place du Forum, where Van Gogh once painted his famous night scenes. For dinner, savor traditional Provençal cuisine, such as bull stew (gardiane de taureau), at one of Arles’ charming restaurants.