Avignon, St Rémy, Les Baux de Provence & Pont du Gard

A full-day exploration of some of Provence’s most iconic sites awaits with this Avignon, Saint-Rémy, Les Baux de Provence, and Pont du Gard tour. Priced at $183.80 per person, the tour spans approximately 10 hours and combines cultural highlights, stunning scenery, and a touch of local wine. It departs from Avignon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offers a carefully curated itinerary that includes visits to historic landmarks, charming villages, and a Roman aqueduct. The group size is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience, guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides.

This tour is ideal for those eager to see Provence’s top highlights in a single day, with easy transportation by air-conditioned minivan. While the itinerary covers a lot, it involves some walking on cobblestone streets and climbing steps, so comfortable shoes are recommended. It also offers a great balance of guided insights and free time, especially in Les Baux de Provence. One notable feature is the inclusion of admission tickets to Pont du Gard and the Popes Palace, making it a hassle-free way to explore these treasures without extra costs.

Key Points

• Full-day tour of Provence from Avignon with guide and transport included
• Visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Avignon’s historic center and Pont du Gard aqueduct
• Entrance tickets included for Popes Palace and Pont du Gard
• Free time in Les Baux de Provence, a picturesque medieval village
• Tasting of Côtes du Rhône wine in a local restaurant close to the Popes Palace
• Limited group size of 8 travelers for a more intimate experience

Discover Avignon’s Historic Heart and the Popes Palace

The tour begins in Avignon at 4 Rue de la République, where a friendly guide leads a walking tour of the city’s most famous sites. The UNESCO World Heritage Site features the Palais des Papes, the largest gothic-style residence ever built for papal authority. Visitors explore this impressive fortress, where successive popes resided between 1309 and 1377. The guide explains the history behind the medieval walls, the grand halls, and the significance of the papal court.

Following the palace visit, the group strolls through Place de l’Horloge, visits the Town Hall, and stops at the theatre. As the tour concludes in the city center, a glass of Côtes du Rhône wine is served in a nearby restaurant, allowing everyone to relax and soak in the atmosphere. The 2-hour walking tour provides a solid introduction to Avignon’s medieval charm and historical importance.

Climb the Fortified City Walls for Panoramic Views

One highlight of the morning is walking up to the top of Avignon’s fortified walls and Rochers des Doms, where spectacular views of the Rhône River and the surrounding countryside unfold. This vantage point offers a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the city’s strategic location. The ascent involves some walking and climbing steps, so comfortable shoes are essential. The panoramic vistas make this a memorable moment in the tour, especially for those interested in architecture and cityscapes.

The Grandeur of the Palais des Papes

The Popes Palace is the core of the morning activity and the main highlight of the tour. As the largest gothic structure in Europe, it leaves a lasting impression. The guide leads visitors through the ornate chambers, chapels, and halls, sharing stories of how the popes lived and governed from this fortress. Admission is included, so there’s no need for extra tickets or hassle. The visit typically lasts around 2 hours, allowing ample time to appreciate the architecture and history.

Lunchtime and Free Exploration in Avignon

After the palace visit, the tour offers a window for lunch or a snack in Avignon. This flexibility allows visitors to enjoy local cafes and explore on their own before heading to the afternoon stops. The afternoon begins at 2:00 pm with a meeting point in front of the Avignon Tourism Office, where the group reconvenes for the next leg of the journey.

Saint-Remy de Provence: Charm in the Heart of Provence

The first stop of the afternoon is Saint-Remy-de-Provence, a town renowned for its quaint streets and artistic heritage. A brief 45-minute walk through the city center provides a taste of local life, with opportunities to admire traditional architecture and perhaps visit small shops. The town’s relaxed pace and scenic ambiance make it a delightful stop for photography and soaking in Provençal charm.

Les Baux de Provence: Medieval Village on a Rocky Spur

Next, the tour visits Les Baux de Provence, a perched medieval fortress built on a rocky hilltop. Visitors enjoy approximately 1 hour to explore the village’s narrow streets, historic ruins, and stunning vistas over the Alpilles region. The village’s dramatic setting on a steep incline offers impressive photo opportunities. The free time allows for leisurely exploration, browsing local shops, or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery that has inspired artists and visitors alike.

Marvel at the Roman Engineering of Pont du Gard

The final major stop is Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct and UNESCO site. The well-preserved structure spans the Gardon River and exemplifies Roman engineering prowess. Visitors spend about 1 hour here, viewing the aqueduct from different angles and walking along its length. While the museum entrance ticket is not included, access to the aqueduct itself is straightforward. The site’s grandeur and historical significance make it a highlight, especially for those interested in ancient architecture.

Practicalities and Group Experience

The tour includes transport by air-conditioned minivan, ensuring comfort during the day. The driver/guide provides insights and commentary throughout the trip, making each stop more meaningful. The small group size, capped at 8 travelers, fosters a more personalized experience, with ample opportunity to ask questions and engage with the guide.

Participants should be prepared for some walking on cobblestone streets and climbing stairs, which may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. The tour does not include lunch or drinks beyond the wine tasting, so arranging your own meal is recommended. Children under 4 years old are not allowed, and the minimum drinking age is 18.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policies

Booking offers peace of mind with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour start time. If canceled within this window, a full refund is available. The tour operates in good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, a different date or a full refund is offered. Small group size and a well-designed itinerary make this tour a flexible and reliable option for a day of Provençal discovery.

Final Thoughts on the Provençal Day Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded experience of Provence’s cultural and natural highlights. The blend of guided visits, free time, and scenic stops makes it suitable for those who want a comprehensive yet manageable day trip. The inclusion of entrance tickets and a wine tasting adds value, while the small group experience ensures a more intimate and engaging day.

While the pace is busy and involves some walking, the tour’s highlights—the Popes Palace, Pont du Gard, and Les Baux—are genuinely impressive. It’s particularly recommended for history enthusiasts and those eager to see Provence’s iconic sites in one day. For travelers seeking a comfortable, guided overview of this beautiful region, it offers an enjoyable, informative, and scenic adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of this tour?
The tour costs $183.80 per person and includes admission tickets to Pont du Gard and the Popes Palace, plus a glass of Côtes du Rhône wine.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 4 Rue de la République, Avignon at 9:00 am and finishes at the Avignon Tourism Office in the city center.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 10 hours, covering morning and afternoon activities.

What sites are included in the itinerary?
The tour visits Avignon’s historic city center, Palais des Papes, Saint-Remy-de-Provence, Les Baux de Provence, and Pont du Gard.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and additional drinks are not included, though a wine tasting is provided near the Popes Palace.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, given the cobblestone streets and some climbing involved.

Is this suitable for children?
Children under 4 years old are not allowed, and participants must be 18 or older to partake in wine tasting.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, creating a more personalized experience.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, air-conditioned minivan transportation is included throughout the day.

Are guides multilingual?
The tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide, ensuring clear explanations in various languages.