CITIES AND SIGHTS

With spectacular landscapes, rich history and undisturbed peace of life, Provence is one of the most desirable destinations for international travelers. Our holiday homes in the Provence provide comfortable and convenient bases to visit the beautiful surroundings. Every city has it's own story waiting to be uncovered whether you are interested in great historical spots or simply enjoy a long walk to soak up the atmosphere.

The remarkable medieval buildings of Avignon called the city of popes will not leave you indifferent. Start your trip from our holiday home in Carpentras. In the 14th century, Avignon was the capital of Christianity. The popes who lived here have left legacy of splendor and brilliance making Avignon one of the most interesting medieval cities in Europe. The sumptuous castles, imposing squares, and towering palaces, keep the look of pride and strength of the old times.

The Palace of the Popes one of the most visited historic sites in France. It is a unique experience to admire the Gothic facades and to pass through the beautifully renovated rooms, chambers and chapels of the interior. Other highlights of the palace include the papal apartments with beautiful frescoes painted by Italian masters. The historical center of Avignon also includes the famous Bridge of Avignon. Built in the 12th century, it originally spanned the Rhone river and connected Avignon with Villeneuve-lez-Avignon. The construction of the bridge was inspired by a local shepherd boy who was commanded by angels to build a bridge across the river. It suffered frequent collapses during floods and had to be reconstructed several times. Only four of the initial 22 arches remained intact today. Our holiday home in Avignon is the perfect choice to spend a few days in this area. Avignon has become lately a well-known a cultural center. Experimental theaters, painting galleries, art cinemas bring diversity to the town. The Avignon Festival is aiming to present French and foreign contemporary drama, stage performances and dance creations.

Known as the gateway to the Camargue with the best preserved Roman ruins, medieval churches and 18th century mansions, Arles gives the impression of a compact, Gallo-Roman city. It attracts art lovers, archaeologists,and historians. Important remains of Roman times in Arles include the Amphitheater. Built for more than 20.000 spectators it was used for gladiator fights. Today the space is used to host the Arles version of bullfights which is not bloody like the Spanish. You can witness this special event using our holiday homes in Mallermort. The Antique theater is one of the city’s great classical monuments. Built in the first century it was gradually destroyed and used for building churches, homes, and fortifications. Today the space is serving it's original purpose as an open-air theater. In July the theater hosts performing-arts festivals and a costume festival called the Festival of the Queen of Arles. View our selection of holiday homes in the Provence to take part in these events.

If you can't get enough of roman ruins you can visit the Thermals of Constantin. This is a ruin of a huge bathhouse containing the remains of the Emperor Constantine’s 4th-century palace. The baths have been partially restored with characteristic bands of brickwork. In the 19th century, Van Gogh lived and worked in and around Arles. His stay was a period of passionate activity. During the 15 months, he completed more than 300 paintings. Throughout Arles, historic markers – including a picture of a relevant painting – are placed at the exact spot where Van Gogh is likely to have painted.

Aix en Provence got its name from a Roman settlement based around the hot springs which are still used for cures in the Thermals north-west of the old town. Known for romantic streets, hundreds of fountains the city of art is set in a hollow dominated by the famous Mont St. Victoire, the theme of so many fabulous Cezanne works. Aix en Provence is also a university center carrying a young, upbeat and energetic feel. An essential part of your visit should be a walk along Cours Mirabeau. It is one of the most popular and lively places in the town. The street has wide sidewalks planted with double rows of plane-trees and lined with many cafés. One of the most famous cafes is Les Deux Garçons frequented by notorious French cultural figures such as Paul Cezanne, Emile Zola and Albert Camus during the history. At the end of Cours Mirabeau you will find La Rotonde a beautiful fountain with an imposing cast-iron basin circled by cherubs who sprinkle water from their lips.

The neighborhood south of the cours Mirabeau is the quarter Mazarin. Designed in the 17th century with streets in a grid pattern, the area was settled exclusively by rich aristocrats and the upper middle classes. Today it has become a favorite location for haute couture fashion houses. Art lovers will be pleased with the nearby County Council Art Gallery which favors works of the regional artists. Impressionist painter Paul Cezanne was born in Aix en Provence and it's worth making a pilgrimage to see the painter's last studio built on a hill outside the town. The museum is set up like Cezanne just stepped out for a minute with paints, a glass of wine, and a pipe laid near an easel. If got charmed from sights of this romantic town, book our holiday homes in Roumoules.

Backed by chalk hills and facing the Mediterranean sea, Marseille enjoys a charming setting. The oldest city of France was founded by Greeks and it is loud and rebellious ever since that day. Marseille has a special rhythm and fragrance. It is the home of French music, football and bouillabaisse, the most delicious fish meal in the world. Many visitors are attracted by the busy streets filled with sailors of every nation. Melting pot of different cultures and gateway to southern Europe, Marseille offers a variety of things to do and see. The Notre Dame de la Garde church is the symbol of Marseille. Built on the city's highest hill with a gold statue of the Virgin it can bee observed from everywhere. Your trip up to the hill will rewarded with a spectacular view of the city. The city's center is the Vieux Port a colorful harbor with bouncing pleasure boats and a lively fish market. The wide docks are popular places for leisurely strolling, and the many terrace cafés provide refreshing stops when you're tired of walking.

When in town check out Palais Longchamp. This amazing water tower was built in association with the channel that brought water to the town in 1839. Today, the waterfalls, ornamental lakes, fountains and sculptures give this place an Italian Renaissance feel. Hosting Marseilles' Fine Arts Museum in its left wing and the Natural History Museum in the right, this watery palace celebrates and unites the glory of water, the arts and the sciences under one magnificent roof. After a busy day in Marseille you can enjoy comfort and luxury in a relaxed setting in our holiday home in Narbonne Plage.

Budapest tours with guaranteed departures, private tours with online booking and other.