Which would be considered a more quintessential french town?

[castle701]

We are on Allure docking in Marseilles. We would like to take a 1/2 day tour to either Cassis or Aix de Provence to shop, explore and eat lunch. Which one would you pick? Both look lovely, but don't know which to pick. This is our first time to Europe. Also, anyone know of a driver only type service versus going on an excursion. We want to wander on our own.

[Hlitner]

That is tough. Not sure I would apply "quintessential" to either place although we have enjoyed both towns on are many trips in the region. Our favorite larger city (in the region) would be Avignon and for a small village we have always enjoyed Les Baux.

 

But Aix is popular and you can easily get there on your own by just taking the train or a regional bus from Marseille. This should cost you no more then $20 round trip plus the cost of the shuttle bus or taxi to get you from the port into Marseille.

 

Hank