Avignon is a fantastic base for exploring some of France’s most scenic and culturally rich regions. Its strategic location, rich history, and lively atmosphere make it an ideal starting point for a variety of tours. We particularly love the Provence Highlights Full-Day Tour because it covers iconic sites like the Pont du Gard and Senanque Abbey, along with charming towns like Gordes and Roussillon. This tour offers a perfect snapshot of Provence’s diverse beauty in just one day—ideal if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive experience. For wine lovers, the Châteauneuf du Pape wine tours provide an immersive taste of the region’s world-renowned vineyards, with options that include tastings, visits to historic estates, and even full-day excursions with lunch. Whether you want to walk through lavender fields or sample local flavors, Avignon has a tour that fits.
Below, you’ll find a carefully curated list of the 15 best tours in Avignon. These include full-day sightseeing, half-day wine tastings, culinary adventures, and specialized visits like the Maison Brotte museum or the lavender fields. Each offers its own unique way to experience the region’s history, scenery, and flavors.
1. Provence Highlights Full-Day Tour from Avignon
At number 1, this full-day tour (see details) is perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time. It packs in Roman aqueducts, medieval towns, and lavender fields (seasonal). You’ll visit the UNESCO-listed Pont du Gard and Senanque Abbey, famous for its purple lavender in summer. The itinerary includes Gordes, les Baux de Provence, and Roussillon, showcasing the region’s famous ochre colors. Tour guide Anna is praised for her knowledge and friendly manner, making the day both informative and enjoyable. Guests rave about the stunning views and personalized tips, like restaurant suggestions in Avignon. This tour balances scenic beauty with cultural highlights, making it highly recommended for those wanting a full taste of Provence in a single day.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, all-in-one experience for travelers wanting highlights without the hassle of planning.
2. Chateauneuf du Pape wine tour
At number 2, the Chateauneuf du Pape wine tour is a favorite among wine enthusiasts. Led by a bilingual guide with a Sommelier diploma, it explores four different wineries in the renowned vineyards. You’ll visit private estates, taste up to 16 wines, and learn about the terroir that makes this region famous. The tour includes a lunch stop with Provencal cuisine, often praised for its quality and atmosphere. Guests mention guide Max’s expert knowledge and the exclusive private tastings as highlights. The tour provides great value—an all-in package combining education, scenery, and delicious wine. It’s perfect for those seeking an in-depth look at the region’s viticulture with a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: Best suited for wine lovers who want a comprehensive, personal experience with expert guidance.
3. Châteauneuf du Pape Wine Day Tasting Tour including Lunch from Avignon
Number 3 on our list (see details) combines wine, villages, and a scenic drive. This full-day tour includes visits to Gigondas and Vacqueyras, along with multiple tastings at prestigious wineries. A highlight is the 2-course lunch in a charming setting, often described as both delicious and authentic. Guides are praised for their knowledgeable explanations and ability to balance education with relaxation. The tour’s small-group format means more personal attention and interaction. Guests love the romantic atmosphere and the chance to explore small villages with storied histories. Suitable for couples or anyone wanting a relaxed but rich wine experience paired with spectacular scenery.
Bottom Line: Excellent for wine fans who want a leisurely day with good food, scenic drives, and top-notch tastings.
4. From Avignon: Half-Day Great Vineyards Tour
Number 4 features a half-day vineyards tour, ideal for those on a tight schedule. In about 5 hours, you visit some of the best Côte du Rhône vineyards, focusing on Grand Cru wines. The tour emphasizes learning about grape varieties and wine production while sampling high-quality wines directly from key estates. Guests appreciate the informative guides and the chance to taste a variety of wines in a short time. This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a quick yet rich introduction to Provence’s wine scene without the full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: A practical choice for wine novices or passersby seeking a condensed but educational experience.
5. The prestige course at Maison Brotte
Number 5 is the Maison Brotte prestige course, a delightful educational tour lasting 1 to 2 hours. It offers an interactive journey through the winemaking process with a focus on Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Rhône Valley wines. You’ll visit the Brotte Wine Museum, see vintage equipment, and enjoy tasting five wines. Many reviewers highlight the friendly guides and the self-guided format that allows you to learn at your own pace. It’s a great, low-cost way to deepen your understanding of regional wines and history.
Bottom Line: Perfect for curious travelers who want an engaging, affordable introduction to local wine making.
6. From Avignon: Full-Day Best of Provence Tour
Number 6 offers a full-day tour that hits all the major Provence highlights. You’ll explore Fontaine de Vaucluse, Gordes, and Roussillon, and see Baux-de-Provence with its panoramic views. The tour emphasizes scenic landscapes and iconic villages, making it a favorite for those who want to see the region’s diversity without multiple bookings. Guests enjoy the well-paced itinerary and the opportunity to snap photos at famous viewpoints. It’s a good all-rounder for travelers who want to maximize sights in a single day.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive choice to see Provence’s top villages and landscapes in one trip.
7. Taste Avignon – A Full French Culinary Tour by Do Eat Better
Number 7 is a culinary adventure in Avignon (details here). It combines food tasting with historic sites, including Provençal tapenade, olive oil, and fougasse. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore local shops and hidden eateries. The tour lasts about 3.5 hours and includes a glass of wine with a traditional dish. Reviewers praise the personalized attention and the authentic flavors that bring Provençal cuisine to life. Ideal for foodies who want to combine sightseeing with tasting the region’s best.
Bottom Line: A delicious way to get to know Avignon’s food and culture in one relaxed outing.
8. From Avignon: All Provence in one Day
Number 8, All Provence in One Day, is a whirlwind trip covering the main sights like Fontaine de Vaucluse, Les Baux de Provence, and Pont du Gard. It’s perfect if you want a full overview without staying overnight. Guests appreciate the rich itinerary, which includes photo stops, scenic drives, and little walks in iconic villages. The tour is around 10.5 hours, so it’s for those prepared for a long day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers eager to see the breadth of Provence in one comprehensive trip.
9. Highlights of Provence in one day
Number 9 offers a guided full-day adventure with Gordana as guide. It includes Fontaine de Vaucluse, Gordes, Roussillon, and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Guests love how the tour balances cultural insights with breathtaking scenery. Visitors particularly enjoy the stops at Nostradamus’s birthplace and the lavender fields in season. The tour is praised for its organized pace and informative guides, making it suitable for those who want a diverse experience.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a rich, varied day with multiple highlights.
10. From Avignon: Châteauneuf du Pape Half-Day Wine Tour
Number 10 is a half-day wine tour focusing on two wineries and a scenic ruins of the Pope’s summer residence. This tour lasts about 4 hours, making it suitable for those on a tight schedule. You’ll visit two distinct wineries, taste a variety of reds and whites, and enjoy a brief photo stop. Many reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides and the relaxed pace. It’s ideal if wine tasting is your priority but you’re short on time.
Bottom Line: A quick but enriching wine experience, perfect for a half-day outing.
11. Luberon Small-Group Day Trip from Avignon
Number 11, the Luberon Small-Group Day Trip, offers an intimate experience of Fontaine de Vaucluse, Gordes, Roussillon, and Ménébes. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Guests love the insightful commentary on local culture and history. Highlights include panoramic views and colorful houses in Roussillon, plus a chance to see lavoirs and historic sites. The tour is great for those who want depth without rushing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, relaxed day exploring Provence’s most photogenic villages.
12. From Avignon: Best of Luberon Guided Tour
Number 12, the Best of Luberon Guided Tour, is a half-day adventure covering Lacoste, Gordes, Roussillon, and Pont Julien. It’s perfect for those wanting structured sightseeing with insightful commentary. Guests appreciate the balanced itinerary and stunning viewpoints, especially at the overlook of Gordes. The tour strikes a nice balance between guided exploration and free time.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a well-organized, scenic overview of Luberon’s highlights.
13. From Avignon: Half-Day Lavender Tour of Luberon
Number 13 is the Half-Day Lavender Tour, perfect for summer visits. It focuses on lavender fields, Gordes, and Senanque Abbey. The tour emphasizes photo opportunities and timely visits during the bloom season. Guests love the scenic drives and the chance to capture stunning images of the fields and villages. It’s a shorter option ideal for travelers with limited time who still want the essence of Provence’s lavender season.
Bottom Line: A great choice for summer visitors wanting memorable photos and a gentle pace.
14. The discovery trail at Maison Brotte
Number 14 features the Discovery Trail at Maison Brotte, a budget-friendly, 1-2 hour museum experience. It explores the history of Rhône wines, the winemaking process, and includes a tasting of three wines. This self-guided tour is praised for its interactive exhibits and friendly staff. It’s perfect for those who want a quick but educational introduction to regional wines without a lengthy commitment.
Bottom Line: A concise, informative visit suitable for casual wine enthusiasts.
15. Wines from Châteauneuf-du-Pape and surrounding areas in 1/2 day
Number 15 is a multi-winery tour that visits three different wineries, including at least one in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation. It features tastings of at least 3 wines per estate and visits to Beaumes de Venise and Gigondas. Guests love the variety of wines and the ample tasting time, along with local produce during lunch. This tour suits those wanting a comprehensive wine experience across multiple terroirs in a flexible timeframe.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine aficionados eager to explore diverse cellars and sample a broad spectrum of regional wines.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Avignon
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your interests and constraints. If you’re eager for a broad scenic overview, the Provence Highlights Full-Day Tour offers an excellent balance of sights and history. For wine lovers, the Chateauneuf du Pape wine tours or the full-day wine and village experience provide in-depth tastings and estate visits. Budget travelers might prefer the Maison Brotte museum, which offers a quick yet insightful look into regional wines.
If time is tight, the half-day tours and lavender trips are perfect. For those wanting a culinary experience, Taste Avignon combines food and culture beautifully.
Book early, especially in high season, as tours fill quickly. Consider your physical activity level—most involve walking in villages, but some focus on seated tastings or museum visits. Think about your main interest—whether scenery, wine, food, or history—and choose accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Avignon offers a wide array of tours that cater to diverse interests. Whether you want a full-day exploration of Provence’s highlights, a focused wine tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, or a culinary stroll through the city streets, there’s something for every traveler. For a balanced experience, the Provence Highlights Tour is hard to beat. If wine is your passion, don’t miss the full-day wine tour with lunch—an excellent way to learn about the region’s viticultural traditions.
Travelers seeking a cultural and scenic overview will enjoy the full-day trips that cover multiple villages and landmarks. Meanwhile, those with limited time or on a budget might prefer the museum tours or half-day excursions. No matter what you choose, booking early will help ensure you get your preferred date and experience.
Enjoy exploring this beautiful corner of France—there’s no better way to connect with Provence’s flavors, history, and landscapes than through these thoughtfully curated tours.
