Monte Carlo or Provence (Toulon)

[tromvest]

We are looking at two different cruises in 2020 on the Constellation. The only difference is one visits Monte Carlo in May and the other goes to Provence (Toulon) in October.  Between these two ports, which one do people prefer? We have been to Monte Carlo once, but our son who is traveling with us hasn't been to Monte Carlo before and we definitely wouldn't mind going back.  

[mskaufman]

My preference would be for Provence.  We have been to both.  In Provence there are a number of charming villages (e.g., Aix, Avignon, Arles, Le Baux). Last time we went to Monte Carlo we spent half the day in St. Paul.

[dogs4fun]

Another vote for Provence. Personally, we love Aix.

[caripoo]

Way more to see and do in Provence......Monte Carlo is so small, maybe you can do both.

[Hlitner]

We would also vote for Provence (having spend weeks in that area)  but Toulon leaves something to be desired when it comes to accessing transportation.  If you are going to take an excursion that would not be an issue.  Otherwise, you do need to do some "homework" regarding your transportation options be it train , bus or rental car.  For what its worth, Provence is a large region that one can explore for many months :).  So you do need to focus on a detailed itinerary.    This little map/web site might give you some understanding of the region:

https://www.tripsavvy.com/provence-map-and-illustrated-travel-guide-1508843

 

There are many published guides (both online and in book stores) to the region.  When traveling around the region there is no right or wrong and some of us would say it is all right :).  Much depends on your own wants/objectives.  You have everything from cities to wine areas to beautiful rural places and villages. And there are even some impressive Roman ruins.

 

Hank

[tromvest]

Thank you all for your input.  We have to do our homework to figure out which we want to do.