Jewish Heritage Tour of Provence from Marseille, 7 Hours

850,00 €

Price per group, 1 to 8 guests.

the presence of Jews in France goes back to Roman Gaul around the time of the fall of Masada in 73. Jewish communities contributed to the cultural life of the Provence region in a range of fields; science, medicine, philosophy, mysticism and music. They also played an important role in the progression and circulation of goods and ideas.
Jews were expelled from the French crown in the 14th century and a hundred years later from the rest of Provence. The only havens that remained were two fiefs under papal sovereignty, the Comtat Venaissin and Avignon, both in the Vaucluse department, where they were protected and able to practice their religion.

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This private Jewish heritage tour of Provence from Marseille lasts 7 hours, for 1 to 8 guests in an 8-seat minivan. You visit the synagogues of Carpentras and Cavaillon, walk through the old ghetto of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and have lunch by the river.

Jewish communities have had a strong presence in France throughout its history. Many cities and towns are steeped in Jewish heritage such as the Marais, the Jewish district in Paris, and the town of Carpentras in the South of France. During this excursion you’ll visit the synagogue of Cavaillon, built in 1494, and what remains of its ghetto and mikvé (ritual bath). Then it’s on to the oldest and most beautiful ancient synagogue in Carpentras, built in 1367, the jewel of Provence.

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To choose the historic landmarks and ancient heritage sites that you want to discover, your itinerary for the day will depend on your personal interests and the local opening times. On your 7-hour private journey, you will explore typical Provençal cities to learn about the deep and fascinating history of Jewish communities over the ages. We’ll visit the beautifully preserved historic synagogues of Cavaillon and Carpentras, stroll through former Jewish quarters, and discover ancient heritage sites that showcase this rich cultural legacy. Throughout your day you can choose to dive into architectural wonders, explore local history museums, or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of charming traditional squares. There is so much to see and learn on this complete historical journey, and if you have any special request you have only to let your guide know. At the conclusion of your day out, you will return with a profound understanding of Provence’s diverse cultural soul.

Jewish heritage tour itinerary

Transfer to Carpentras (1h30)
Visit the choule / historical synagogue of Carpentras (1h)
Transfer to L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (30mn)
Stroll around the historical ghetto & lunch by the Sorgue river (1h30)
Transfer to Cavaillon (30mn)
Visit the choule / synagogue of Cavaillon (1h)
Transfer back to Marseille (1h)

What is included

🚐 Minivan 8 seats luxe
👥 1 to 8 persons
🕒 7 Hours
✅ All expenses related included: tolls, insurance, taxes, gas.

What’s Extra : Drinks, Lunch (optional), Synagogue/Museum admission fees.

If you would like to share this tour with others on your cruise ship, you can post a message on the site: www.cruisecritic.co.uk where fellow travelers are easily found.

Price and group size

Price per group, 1 to 8 guests.

For a group of 8, that is about €106 per person.

For cruise passengers

  • Where we meet you: At the cruise port, at the exit of your ship, with a sign showing your name. If you have already left the port on your own, we can also meet you in the center of Marseille.
  • Back on board: We bring you back to your ship at least 1 hour before it leaves.
  • Your group: Private group, 1 to 8 guests.
  • If your ship cannot dock: If your ship skips the port or cannot dock, your booking is refunded in full (100%).

For tours from the port of Toulon / La Seyne sur Mer :
There will be a supplement of 90€ because I’m based in Marseille, which means a 2-hour round trip.

We also offer heritage tours in Spain: a walking tour in Barcelona and a day trip to Girona and Besalu. For more information, please contact us directly at [email protected].