Originally Posted by
gfunkdave
2. Train from CDG to Aix or Marseille, spend a few days in Marseille and surrounding areas. I figure the strike will hopefully be over by then.
I wouldn't count on it.
Originally Posted by
gfunkdave
What do people recommend? I realize that the latter half of the week we'll probably be able to explore the area around Avignon (the villa we're staying at is near Vacqueyras) anyway, so I lean towards going to Nice first.
Aix/Marseille if you want to drive as little as possible. All three cities are worth a visit. Aix maybe too similar to Avignon. Marseille/Nice may be good choices. Both are busy, coastal cities which IMO is a contrast to the generally more calmer Provence. You could always do Aix on a day trip on your way from Marseille/Nice to Avignon. Marseille/Nice may also be slightly more gentle re: temperatures.
PS: You could spent months in the south of France and still not discover everything.