Hi Sue,

If take it easy, stroll, shop, eat, and take photos are your goals, then I would definitely visit Aix over Cassis. Full disclosure, I live in Aix, but have traveled to Cassis many times.

Cassis is great, but is usually a spot for relaxing at the beach and/or visiting the calanques (the large rock formations that jut out into the sea) and in November that might be a little cold.

Aix is great because you've got daily markets (with bigger ones on Tue, Thur, Sat) and lots of quaint and charminig streets to meander along. Plus, in November you'll be out of the large tourist season so it will be much calmer.

As far as the weather goes, it will be pretty much the same, although Aix might be a touch warmer as it's not right on the coast but about 30 minutes inland.

Don't hesitate if you have any other questions about Aix.

- Brian

I love Cassis but have to agree with previous poster. You'll probably want a break from seascapes anyway. Aix is a town, not a village, with a cathedral, loads of fountains, a beautiful street lined with trees and restaurants and the studio where Cezanne used to paint.

Which day will it be? There's a great market in Aix on Saturdays.

We'll be there on a Sunday. I suppose there is nothing that day?

Sue

We also considered visiting St Remy and L'Isle-sur-le-Sorgue instead. I know they are farther. Too far? Worthwhile?

Thanks again.

Sue

If it's on a Sunday the definitely go to Isle-sur-le-Sorgue. The market there on Sundays is incredible. Don't know your travel schedule, but just note that the market is in the morning and generally closes by around 1-2 in the afternoon. If you can make it out there in the morning then this is definitely your best option.

Sundays in Aix, there is a small market, but it is typically much much calmer and most of the shops are closed.

Definitely l'Isle sur la Sorgue, if it's a Sunday, and aim to get there very early so as to get a good parking space.

Also book somewhere for lunch.

Does the antique market go into November even?

Sue

Are these shore excursion choices from the cruise line, or are you planning your own day? How much time do you have? Cassis is the most picturesque, but it wouldn't occupy a whole day. You could combine it with strolling around Marseilles, I suppose. If you have the time and a way to get there, I would put Arles and Avignon on the list to consider. Both are about an hour's drive from Marseille. I prefer either to the other places you've mentioned for a Sunday walk around.

We're planning our own day but won't rent a car. We'll look for a tour company, possibly with some fellow cruisers. We've been to Arles and Avignon so we'd like to see somewhere different. We'll have from 7 am to 5pm.

Sue

Sue, can't speak from personal expeience, but I've read good things about www.ventoux-decouvertes.com/sommaire_gb.php3 With a full day you could hit L'Isle sur la Sorgue and go on to someplace else such as the Luberon which is my own favorite part of Provence.