Avignon is a treasure trove for history lovers. Its medieval walls, the imposing Palace of the Popes, and ancient Roman ruins make it ideal for exploring on foot or in small groups. We especially love the Avignon: History and Legend Walking Tour for its lively storytelling and picturesque streets. It offers an engaging way to get acquainted with the city’s past, weaving tales of legend with its stunning architecture.
If you’re eager to combine history with local flavor, the Avignon: Historic District Guided Food & Wine Walking Tour is a fantastic choice. It pairs tastings of regional delicacies and wine with visits to historic eateries, giving you a taste of both culture and cuisine. For those interested in ancient Rome, a Roman Sites and Historical Places Day Trip from Avignon offers an immersive experience of Roman architecture and engineering, including UNESCO-listed Pont du Gard.
Below is a list of the best historical tours in Avignon, each offering a unique perspective on this fascinating city.
1. Avignon: History and Legend Walking Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Avignon: History and Legend Walking Tour is a 2-hour guided stroll through the heart of the city’s old town. Starting at 16 Pl. Crillon, this tour covers key landmarks like the Pont Saint-Bénézet and Palais des Papes while sharing colorful stories that bring Avignon’s past to life. The guide’s anecdotes make history feel immediate and personal, making it perfect for first-time visitors wanting a lively overview.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on hidden alleyways and charming cobblestone streets often missed on your own. The architecture is impressive, from the medieval fortress walls to the ornate facades of the palace. Visitors praise the lively atmosphere and engaging storytelling, with a 4.7-star rating from over 100 reviews. It’s a great value at $23 per person, especially if you’re interested in a comprehensive yet accessible introduction to Avignon’s history.
Bottom Line: A lively, well-rated walking tour that combines architecture, stories, and a sense of place — ideal for those who want a quick but rich historical overview.
2. Avignon: Historic District Guided Food & Wine Walking Tour
Second on our list is the Avignon: Historic District Guided Food & Wine Walking Tour. For about $111, this 3.5-hour experience is perfect if you want to explore history and local flavors simultaneously. Starting at 5 Rue de la Monnaie, your guide leads you through the old town’s streets, stopping at renowned eateries and specialty shops to sample regional delights like tapenades, fougasses, and local wines.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on culinary heritage—visiting historic bakeries and wine cellars that have been part of Avignon’s life for generations. Guests rave about trying “the very best products Avignon has to offer” and discovering the city from a different perspective. It’s especially suitable for foodies or travelers who enjoy tasting their way through history.
This tour’s value lies in its combination of sightseeing and tasting, providing a richer sense of what makes Avignon special beyond its stone walls. It’s best suited for those willing to spend a little more for a deeply sensory experience.
Bottom Line: A flavorful way to explore Avignon’s history, perfect for food lovers wanting a relaxed, immersive experience.
3. Roman Sites and Historical Places Day Trip from Avignon
Moving into the ancient past, the Roman Sites and Historical Places Day Trip from Avignon is an 8.5-hour small-group tour that takes you beyond the city walls. It’s a favorite for history buffs eager to see Roman ruins and engineering marvels. Starting at Nîmes, you’ll visit the Roman amphitheater and the Maison Carrée, both remarkably preserved.
The highlight is the Pont du Gard, a 2000-year-old aqueduct listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its scale and engineering are impressive, and the guided visit offers insights into Roman ingenuity. You also explore Orange’s Roman theatre, another well-preserved relic with a powerful presence.
With just eight people, the tour offers personal attention and a relaxed pace. Tour guides are praised for their knowledge, with reviews noting Jeremy’s engaging storytelling. At $191.58, it’s a bit pricier but offers an in-depth look at Roman history in the region.
Bottom Line: For those interested in Roman architecture and history, this day trip offers a comprehensive and engaging experience, well worth the price for its expert guides and UNESCO sites.
4. Avignon: Private Walking Tour – Discover History & Heritage
If you prefer a personalized experience, the Avignon: Private Walking Tour offers a tailored 2 or 3-hour walk. Starting at either 19 Pl. de l’Horloge or 1 Pl. de l’Horloge, your private guide will customize the itinerary to your interests, focusing on highlights like the Pope’s Palace and Saint Bénezet Bridge.
This tour excels in offering flexibility and personalized storytelling. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a deeper understanding of Avignon’s architecture and history without the crowds. During the 2-hour option, you’ll mainly admire the exterior of the Palace, while the 3-hour version includes walking on the bridge itself and more in-depth exploration of the old town.
Rated 4.2/5 from 45 reviews, this tour’s value depends on your preference for private-guided experiences. It’s more expensive at $210 per person, but the exclusivity and customized approach can make it worthwhile.
Bottom Line: A good choice for travelers seeking a private, flexible introduction to Avignon’s heritage, especially if you appreciate tailored conversations.
5. Guided tour of the Historic Center of Avignon
Finally, the Guided tour of the Historic Center of Avignon offers a 3-hour overview, starting at the Temple Saint Martial. With a small group, your guide shares stories about Gothic architecture and the medieval textile industry. Highlights include the Rue des Teinturiers and the Saint-Didier Collegiate Church.
This tour is particularly appealing for its focus on local art and architecture, with a relaxed pace and free admission to many sites. Reviewers mention how the tour uncovered new insights about Avignon’s artistic roots, making it a good fit for those interested in both history and culture.
At $79.12, it’s an affordable option for a concise, well-structured introduction to the city’s core sights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting to get a solid overview of Avignon’s cultural and architectural history in a relaxed, affordable setting.
How to Choose the Best Historical Tour in Avignon
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to dedicate. For a quick, lively overview, the History and Legend Walking Tour is excellent. If food and wine are your thing, the Food & Wine Tour offers a tasty cultural experience. For those passionate about Roman history, the Roman Sites Day Trip is hard to beat. And if you want privacy or a customized approach, the Private Walking Tour will meet your needs.
Think about your fitness level—some tours involve walking and standing for extended periods, so plan accordingly. Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Avignon offers a diverse array of historical tours that suit different interests and budgets. Whether a lively guided walk through the old city, a tasting journey of regional flavors, or an in-depth Roman ruins adventure, there’s something for every history enthusiast. For a well-rounded experience, combining a walking tour with a day trip or food experience can give you a fuller picture of this fascinating city.
If you’re a first-time visitor, the History and Legend Walking Tour is a great starting point. For lovers of Roman history, the day trip to Nîmes and Pont du Gard is a highlight. And for those wanting a personalized touch, the Private Tour offers flexibility and intimacy.
Remember to book early, especially during busy months, to secure your spot on these memorable journeys through Avignon’s past.
