From Marseille: Luberon Market & Villages Full-Day Tour

Discover the Enchanting Villages and Markets of Luberon from Marseille

The From Marseille: Luberon Market & Villages Full-Day Tour offers an engaging exploration of the south of France’s most picturesque destinations. Priced at $187 per person and lasting 11.5 hours, this guided journey takes visitors through a selection of the region’s most authentic hilltop villages and lively markets. The tour is operated by Tylene Transport Tourisme and is ideal for those eager to experience Provence’s charm without the hassle of driving.

This tour stands out for its focus on local markets and scenic villages, with special visits to Gordes, Roussillon, Lourmarin, and L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. Each stop offers unique sights, from colorful ochre cliffs to medieval streets and bustling markets. While the full-day length is demanding, the expertly led itinerary ensures a rewarding immersion into Provence’s best features. It’s most suitable for travelers who enjoy cultural sights, beautiful landscapes, and local flavors.

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Key Points

• Full-day guided tour lasting 11.5 hours starting in Marseille
• Visit multiple villages: Gordes, Roussillon, Lourmarin, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, and more
• Markets included on specific weekdays, with stops for photos and shopping
• Scenic views from viewpoints like Gordes and lavender fields (mid-June to mid-July)
• Small group experience limited to 8 participants for personalized attention
• Food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or lunch independently

Tour Starts at Radisson Blu Hotel at Vieux Port in Marseille

The meeting point for this full-day adventure is the Radisson Blu Hotel at Vieux Port. From there, transportation is provided, with the guide leading the group through Provence’s stunning villages and landscapes. The tour is designed for a small group of up to 8 people, ensuring attentive guiding and a relaxed pace. This setup makes it ideal for travelers who prefer intimate experiences over large tours.

The tour begins early, with availability depending on the day of the week and the specific market schedule. Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and water, but pets, large luggage, and smoking are not permitted during the trip.

Visiting Village Markets on Different Days of the Week

Each day of the week brings a different set of stops, tailored to the local market schedules in the villages. On Tuesday, the tour visits Gordes, famous for its dry-stone architecture and panoramic views. During market days, Gordes comes alive with stalls and vibrant scenes, making it perfect for photos.

On Thursday, the highlight is Roussillon, known for its striking ochre cliffs and vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. The market here showcases regional specialties, and the village’s colorful streets are a delight to explore. On Friday, travelers enjoy free time in Lourmarin, a village famous for its Renaissance castle and charming streets.

Saturdays bring a visit to Apt, celebrated for its candied fruits and provencal market. The market is an excellent spot to see local produce and crafts. On Sundays, the tour stops at L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, famous for its antique shops and lively canal-lined market.

If the day of the week does not match the planned schedule, a panoramic stop from a viewpoint often replaces the market visit, especially for photo opportunities of Gordes or to enjoy the scenic landscapes.

Lavender Fields and Natural Beauty (Seasonal Highlights)

Between mid-June and mid-July, the tour makes a special stop at the Senanque Abbey, where visitors can see the lavender fields in full bloom. The sight of purple rows stretching across the landscape provides exceptional photo opportunities. This seasonal highlight adds a vibrant splash of color to the Provençal scenery.

The tour also takes visitors to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, renowned for its stunning natural springs and peaceful atmosphere. The natural springs and tranquil setting of this village further enrich the Provence experience.

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Scenic Route through Lourmarin and Surroundings

The return journey from villages like Roussillon and Gordes includes a scenic route through Lourmarin. This route offers stunning views of the Luberon landscape, making it a favorite for photography. Lourmarin, famous for its Renaissance castle, allows for free time where visitors can wander its charming streets and soak up the local atmosphere.

This stop is especially appreciated by those who enjoy walking through historic towns and exploring local shops and cafes. The village’s famous market on Friday can be included if the schedule aligns with the day of the week.

Practical Details and What’s Included

The price of $187 covers transportation and a driver/tour guide who provides insights into each village and regional traditions. Food and drinks are not included, so travelers should plan to bring snacks or lunch. The tour does not include additional entrance fees or gratuities, which are optional.

Participants should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and water for the day. The tour is not suitable for children under 4 years or individuals with mobility impairments, due to walking and standing in villages.

Tour Guide Quality and Guest Experiences

Based on reviews, the guides are highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to share interesting insights about Provence. Guides like Melissa, Carolyn, Gabriella, and Florence are mentioned for their passion and attentiveness, making the day both educational and enjoyable.

Reviewers appreciate the personalized experience provided by the small group size, allowing for flexibility and more meaningful stops. The viewpoints, villages, and markets are consistently described as beautiful, well-preserved, and picturesque.

Flexibility and Booking Options

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled date, providing flexibility for travelers unsure of their plans. Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later. Solo travelers are accepted, but if only one person books, the company may contact the guest to suggest an alternative tour or date.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour suits those interested in Provence’s villages, markets, and scenery. It is especially good for photography enthusiasts and culture lovers who prefer guided experiences over self-planning. The small group size and expert guides ensure a relaxed pace and personalized attention, even for visitors unfamiliar with the region.

Final Thoughts on the Luberon Village Tour from Marseille

The From Marseille: Luberon Market & Villages Full-Day Tour offers a comprehensive and well-organized introduction to Provence’s charming villages and lively markets. The expert guides, beautiful stops, and seasonal highlights like lavender fields make it a memorable day for anyone wanting to see the region’s authentic side.

While the day is long and requires comfortable shoes and planning for meals, the value of experiencing multiple villages in one day outweighs these minor considerations. This tour is particularly suited for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want a taste of Provence’s highlights with minimal effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price includes transportation and a driver/tour guide. Food, drinks, and additional entrance fees are not included.

What should I bring on the tour?
It’s recommended to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and water. Cameras or smartphones for photos are also suggested.

Are children allowed on this tour?
The tour is not suitable for children under 4 years. For older children, please advise the age when booking.

Can I join the tour if I am traveling alone?
Yes, solo travelers are accepted. If only one person books, the company may contact you to offer an alternative tour or date.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the lavender field visit guaranteed?
The lavender fields are in bloom from mid-June to mid-July, so the stop is seasonal and dependent on the blooming period.

How long do stops usually last?
Stops typically include free time for exploration or photos, with the overall pacing designed for comfort and enjoyment.

What makes this tour stand out from others?
The small group size, local guides, and carefully curated stops at iconic villages and markets make this tour well-loved by previous participants.

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