Visit beautiful Provence by train
The stunning French region of Provence is a firm favourite with visitors from all over the world. Famed for its spectacular scenery, delicious food and warm, dry weather, Provence is now easier to get to than ever with Eurostar's new route. From London to Provence In a shade over six hours, it's now possible to travel by train from London to Aix en Provence with only one change.
Relaxing and stress-free, European rail journeys are the enjoyable way to travel. Unlike flying, train travel doesn't require lengthy check-in queues or hours of waiting around before departure. In most cases, you can turn up at the station and be on the train in 30 minutes. Once you get moving, all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the scenery. Where to stay in Provence From luxury boutique hotels to cheap and cheerful campsites, you'll find it all in Provence.
For a truly authentic French experience, however, staying in a gite is the best option. A gite is a holiday home which the owner lets out to guests. They are hugely popular in France and are graded by the tourist organisation, Gites de France. Traditional gites are found all over Provence and come in every size and style imaginable. From cosy, rural retreats perfect for a romantic break for two, to sprawling, luxurious villas suitable for extended families, there is a gite for every holidaymaker. Gites de France assigns each one to a different class depending on its attributes, location and the type of visitors it is suitable for. Things to do in Provence One of the most popular attractions in Provence is the Palais des Papes in the city of Avignon. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the world's largest gothic palace was the papal seat for over 70 years. A fascinating glimpse into the power and wealth, the pope wielded, the palace is well worth a visit. Marseille may be the second largest city in France, but it's a world away from most major cities. Situated on the coast, the city is an excellent place to sample some of the finest seafood in Europe and is famous for its bouillabaisse. The old part of the city is a warren of winding streets and alleyways and is full of independent shops and cafes. Adventurous types will love the Gorges du Verdon, Europe's deepest canyon. Not for the faint-hearted, the canyon does have some narrow spaces visitors will need to squeeze through, but it's a must-do for experienced hikers.