Roussillon is a favorite for travelers craving authentic Provençal charm, dramatic ochre cliffs, and colorful villages. Its distinctive landscape, where vibrant reds and ochres dominate the scenery, makes it an ideal destination for scenic tours. We especially love tours that combine guided exploration with ample free time to soak in the atmosphere—like the Luberon : Gordes, Roussillon with Ochre trail & Sorgue river—a full-day tour that takes you from the iconic hilltop village of Gordes to the stunning cliffs of Roussillon, including a walk along the refreshing Sorgue river. Its balanced itinerary and engaging highlights make it a standout for visitors wanting a comprehensive experience.
Along With full-day excursions, Roussillon features half-day tours and specialized experiences like private photoshoots that let you frame your Provençal memories professionally. Whether you’re after culture, natural beauty, or a personalized photoshoot, you’ll find options tailored for different interests and schedules. The variety of tours below showcases the best ways to explore this colorful region, all with their own unique appeal.
1. LUBERON : Gordes, Roussillon with Ochre trail & Sorgue river
At number 1, the Luberon : Gordes, Roussillon with Ochre trail & Sorgue river offers a rich taste of Provence’s most iconic sights in just six hours. Priced at $116 per person, this tour is perfect for those who want a full, varied day without spending all their time on the road. It begins with a visit to Gordes, a village perched on its rocky spur that exemplifies the charm of hilltop Provençal towns. The guide points out its dry-stone architecture and shares stories about its history, making it more than just a photo stop.
Next, the tour ventures into Roussillon, exploring its famous ochre cliffs and trail, where the earth itself turns into a canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows. The Ochre Trail is a highlight, offering a chance to walk through the same landscapes that once fueled local quarrying industries. The final part of the day takes you along the Sorgue river, where you’ll enjoy a leisurely walk in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, soaking in the cool, blue water and lush surroundings. The itinerary’s well-structured timing allows a good balance of guided visits and free exploration, and the reviews rave about the passionate guides and scenic stops.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a compact, engaging day with a mix of village charm, natural beauty, and history.
2. departing from Avignon, charming provence tour
At number 2, this Charming Provence Tour from Avignon offers a nine-hour deep dive into the region’s top sights. Priced at $152 per person, it’s a great choice for those who want a rundown of Provence with expert guidance. Starting from Avignon, the tour hits Roussillon, famous for its famous red and orange cliffs, and visits the village itself for about 1.5 hours, giving you time to explore its narrow streets and enjoy the scenery.
The tour continues to Gordes, another classic hilltop village, where you get about 80 minutes to wander and take photos. The visit to Sénanque Abbey adds a touch of history and religious architecture, while Fontaine-de-Vaucluse offers a chance to see its celebrated spring. The guide’s commentary enriches the experience, making it easier to appreciate the region’s diverse landscapes and cultural highlights.
With a focus on small groups and personalized attention, this tour is well-suited for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace and meaningful stops. The longer duration ensures you aren’t rushed, but it still offers a good overview of Provence’s highlights.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a full-day, immersive experience of Provence’s most celebrated villages and landmarks.
3. Avignon: Luberon, Gordes, and Roussillon Half-Day Tour
Number 3, the Avignon: Luberon, Gordes, and Roussillon Half-Day Tour is a terrific option for travelers short on time but eager to see Provence’s highlights. For $99, you get about five hours of guided exploration, starting from Avignon. The tour offers a quick but thorough visit to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, where you can enjoy a self-guided walk around the spring, and then moves to Gordes for a brief self-guided exploration of its charming streets.
The highlight is Roussillon, where you’ll have enough time to walk among the colorful cliffs and perhaps pick up some local crafts. The guide’s friendly approach and the well-paced itinerary make it a hit with visitors who want a taste of Provence’s best spots without the longer commitment of a full day.
This tour is best suited for travelers with limited time who still want a memorable Provençal experience. Keep in mind that with only a few hours, the focus is on sightseeing rather than deep exploration.
Bottom line: A sensible choice for those with limited time who want to hit the region’s highlights.
4. Luberon, Roussillon & Gordes Half-Day Tour from Avignon
Number 4 on our list, the Luberon, Roussillon & Gordes Half-Day Tour from Avignon is a flexible 5-hour trip that covers some of Provence’s most iconic villages. Priced at $99 per person, it offers a balanced mix of guided visits and free time. Highlights include Fontaine de Vaucluse, with its spring and lush surroundings, Gordes, known for its stunning views and stone houses, and Roussillon, where the vibrant ochre cliffs are the star attraction.
The tour’s strength is its focus on local scenery and architecture, with plenty of photo opportunities. The small group setting ensures you won’t feel rushed, and the itinerary’s pace allows for both guided insight and personal exploration. Visitors often comment on how well it balances sightseeing with relaxed strolling.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see the key villages but don’t want a full-day commitment. The limited time still offers a good sense of Provence’s character and beauty.
Bottom line: A great half-day option for those wanting to see Provence’s highlights without rushing.
5. au départ Avignon 1/2 journée dans les villages de Provence
Number 5 is a half-day tour focused on visiting picturesque villages in Provence. Starting from Avignon, the tour emphasizes local markets, colorful streets, and scenic views, with a duration of about five hours. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to combine sightseeing with a bit of local culture.
This tour includes stops at traditional villages with free time for wandering and shopping, especially in the morning markets. The route is flexible based on your interests, and the guide offers insights into local traditions and architecture. It’s best suited for those who want a relaxed exploration with some time for spontaneous discoveries.
Note that the tour is limited to small groups, and participants should wear comfortable shoes. The focus on local markets and village charm makes it a good fit for travelers interested in authentic Provençal life.
Bottom line: Suitable for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, authentic village visits, and local markets.
6. Discover the village of Luberon from Aix en Provence
Number 6, the Discover the village of Luberon from Aix en Provence is a full-day personalized experience. Priced per group up to four people at $759, this private tour offers flexibility and tailored visits. The driver speaks fluent English and will customize the itinerary based on your interests, whether that’s visiting hilltop villages, scenic landscapes, or local markets.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on customization and intimacy, making it ideal for small groups or couples who want a private Provence experience. The driver helps you craft a day that fits your pace, with the ease of a chauffeur and guide rolled into one.
While it’s pricier than group tours, the personalized approach adds value, especially for travelers seeking a private, flexible itinerary. It’s perfect for those who want an exclusive experience or are celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking a tailored, private day in Provence with flexible scheduling.
7. Marseille: Luberon Villages and Market Day Tour
Number 7 offers an eight-hour day trip from Marseille exploring Luberon’s charming villages. For a set rate (not specified), it takes you through Lourmarin, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Roussillon, and Gordes with photo stops and free time at each. If you love market days, this tour also includes a visit to the Isle-sur-la-Sorgue market on Sundays, which many find delightful for its lively atmosphere and unique shopping.
The tour is perfect for travelers based in Marseille wanting to see Provence’s highlights without renting a car. The itinerary is well-paced, with plenty of opportunities to explore on your own. The guide shares interesting insights into Provençal culture and landscapes, making the full-day trip both informative and scenic.
Best suited for those who want to combine sightseeing with a vibrant market experience, especially on Sundays. The tour’s structure allows for good photo opportunities and local flavor.
Bottom line: Great for day-trippers from Marseille seeking a mix of villages and lively markets.
8. Provence: Private photoshoot by a professional photographer
Number 8, the Provence: Private photoshoot by a professional photographer is perfect for capturing your trip’s special moments. Duration varies from 30 minutes to two hours, depending on your needs, and you choose from various scenic locations, including lavender fields, hilltop villages, or natural landscapes.
This experience is ideal for travelers wanting professional-quality images to remember Provence. The photographer helps you pose naturally, so your photos reflect authentic emotion and the region’s beauty. Many bookings are for couples, families, or special occasions like engagements.
While it doesn’t include sightseeing, this personalized session is a memorable way to create keepsakes. The personalized approach and flexible schedule make it a standout for those who value quality photos.
Bottom line: It’s a top choice for travelers wanting beautiful, professional photos of their Provence experience.
9. The best of Provence: 4-day tour
Finally, at number 9, the Best of Provence: 4-day tour offers an in-depth journey through the region. Priced at $5,851 for up to seven people, it’s a substantial investment in a comprehensive experience. Over four days, you visit lavender fields, Roman ruins, coastal towns, and charming villages, with time to explore and relax.
This tour is ideal for serious lovers of Provence who want to enjoy the landscape, culture, and cuisine. It includes visits to famous sites and hidden corners, all arranged for maximum comfort and insight. The guide’s expertise makes each day informative and engaging, and the itinerary is flexible enough to accommodate specific interests.
While costly, this tour provides excellent value considering the depth and quality of experiences, plus the convenience of having everything organized for you. It’s best for those planning a dedicated Provence trip who value comfort, depth, and personalized service.
Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking an immersive, multi-day experience with a focus on deep exploration.
How to Choose Your Perfect Roussillon Tour
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. For a full immersive experience, the 4-day tour is ideal. If your time is limited, the half-day options and half-day in Provence offer a quick but rich taste. Those seeking something more personalized will appreciate the private photoshoot, perfect for creating lasting memories.
Budget-wise, group tours generally offer better value, especially considering lunch and admission fees are often included. For a more tailored experience, private options provide flexibility but at a higher cost. Time of year also matters—spring and early summer burst with color, while fall offers a quieter, crisper feel. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours in peak season (May through September).
Final Thoughts
Roussillon and surrounding Provence offer diverse ways to explore its stunning villages, natural landscapes, and cultural treasures. For a balanced mix of scenic beauty, history, and local atmosphere, the Luberon with Ochre trail remains a top choice. For a more relaxed, personalized experience, the private photoshoot is perfect. And if you want to explore more deeply, the 4-day tour provides an in-depth, comfortable journey through Provence’s highlights.
No matter which you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable Provence experiences. Whether you’re after a quick taste or a full immersion, there’s a tour that will help you capture the soul of Roussillon and its charming surroundings.
