The beauty of the French marine port of Toulon is best seen when approaching by sea: the coast has deep bays, golden sandy beaches and picturesque little fishing vilages. The Quai de Stalingrad borders the old inner harbour, with houses newly built after 1945. The entranceway of the old town hall, supported by the famous titan figures by the sculptor Puget (mid-17th century) was integrated into the facade of the Maritime Museum, behind which lies the old town with its pretty little streets. Other important museums are the Musée de Toulon, the Musée d'Art, the Musée d'Histoire Naturelle and the Musée du Vieux Toulon. The most remarkable buildings include the romanesque church Sainte Marie Majeure, Saint Louis' church and the large military hospital. The Cours La Fayette, where the fruit and vegetable market is held in the mornings, is always bustling with life.

Tips for excursions

Avignon and Les Baux

In Avignon there will be a visit to the Papal Palace, one of the most idiosyncratic and grandiose buildings of the Gothic age and centre of the Christian world of the 14th century. There will then be time to explore the city. There follows a trip to Les Baux, where lunch will be served. Thereafter there will be an extended walk through the romantic little mountain town. Please note: the part of the tour to be conducted on foot will take about three hours. Lunch is included in the price.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is the former capital of the region of Provence. After a journey of about one hour, the walk through the town begins on the Promenade Cours Mirabeau. Particularly impressive are the three fountains to be found there, one of which, the Fontaine Chaude, is fed with warm thermal water. There will then be a visit to the Cathédrale St.-Sauveur (cathedral of the Redeemer), followed by time to stroll around and buy souvenirs.

Cassis

After a journey time of about 45 minutes the tour arrives in the little port of Cassis. Cassis is especially known for the majestic Calanques - narrow sea coves cut deep into the land which lie between jagged white limestone cliffs. The small fishing village was made famous by the author Frederic Mistral, who played a part in making it one of the most popular summer holiday destinations on the French Mediterranean coast. The participants will have about an hour to explore the town independently.