departing from Avignon, charming provence tour

Explore Provence’s Most Beautiful Villages and Landmarks in a 9-Hour Tour from Avignon

This small-group tour departs from Avignon’s Office de Tourisme and offers a comprehensive look at some of Provence’s most iconic sights. At $152 per person, it provides a full day of sightseeing, including tolls and hotel pick-up, with limited to 8 participants for a more intimate experience. The 9-hour itinerary balances scenic stops, cultural visits, and plenty of opportunities for photos and exploration.

One of the standout features of this tour is the carefully curated list of stops, from the vibrant village of Roussillon to the world UNESCO heritage site of Pont du Gard. With an experienced guide leading the way, you gain insights into each location’s history and significance, making this trip as informative as it is visually appealing. However, travelers should be prepared for some walking and the fact that entry to sites is not included in the price.

This tour is perfect for visitors seeking a well-organized, flexible day trip that combines picturesque villages, historic landmarks, and unique Provençal scenery. It is especially suited for those who want a small-group experience with personalized attention and enjoy uncovering the charm of the South of France.

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Key Points

• Depart from Avignon’s Office de Tourisme for a full-day exploration of Provence.
• Visit Roussillon, Gordes, Sénanque Abbey, and Fontaine-de-Vaucluse in a carefully planned 9-hour itinerary.
• Includes tolls and hotel pick-up, with options for flexible booking and full refunds up to 24 hours in advance.
• Small-group setting limited to 8 participants for a more personalized experience.
• Guide speaks English, Chinese, and French, with engaging storytelling and local insights.
• Sites’ entry fees are not included in the package, so plan for additional costs if you wish to visit certain attractions.

Departure and Meet-up at Avignon’s Office de Tourisme

The tour begins at Avignon’s Office de Tourisme, providing a central and convenient starting point. From here, the guide leads the group on a journey through Provence’s highlights. The small-group format ensures plenty of space for questions and interaction. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a variety of travelers.

Scenic Stop in the Vaucluse Region

The first stop involves a photo break in the Vaucluse region, lasting about one hour. This area offers classic Provençal landscapes and prepares visitors for the charm ahead. It’s a ideal moment to stretch your legs before heading deeper into the countryside.

Discovering Roussillon’s Colorful Falaise

The visit to Roussillon lasts 1.5 hours, focusing on its famous red, orange, and yellow ochre cliff. Recognized as one of France’s most beautiful villages, Roussillon’s vibrant hues and quaint streets make it a favorite for photos and leisurely exploration. The village’s rich colors have made it a symbol of Provençal charm.

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Exploring Gordes and Its Pittoresque Streets

Next, the group spends 80 minutes in Gordes, another of Provence’s most beautiful villages. Known for its stone houses and stunning views over the valley, Gordes offers a glimpse of traditional Provençal architecture. Visitors can stroll through its narrow alleys and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.

Visiting Sénanque Abbey’s Tranquil Setting

A 30-minute stop at Sénanque Abbey provides a peaceful encounter with one of Provence’s most iconic abbeys, famous for its lavender fields (though the season may be ending). The abbey’s simple architecture and serene surroundings make it a highlight for those interested in religious history and beautiful countryside.

Fontaine-de-Vaucluse: The Jade-Colored Spring

The final stop involves 70 minutes at Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, where the jade-green spring is a sight to behold. The village is famous for its source of the Sorgue River, with scenic views and a charming village atmosphere. It’s a refreshing spot to learn about the natural phenomena that make this site unique.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

This tour offers free cancellation if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility to your travel plans. You can reserve now and pay later, which is ideal if your schedule is uncertain. The guide conducts tours in English, Chinese, and French, enhancing accessibility for international travelers.

Accessibility and Group Size

The small group of up to 8 participants creates a more personalized feel, with plenty of opportunities for questions and interaction. The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort for everyone. However, drinks, food, and alcoholic beverages are not permitted in the vehicle, so plan accordingly.

Comparing This Tour to Other Provence Experiences

While similar excursions explore Provence’s villages and landmarks, this tour’s focus on a select few highlights ensures a relaxed pace. The inclusion of UNESCO World Heritage Pont du Gard adds a touch of grandeur, pairing natural and man-made marvels seamlessly. For those who prefer a more intimate, guided experience with local insights, this trip delivers.

Final Thoughts on the Avignon Provence Tour

This 9-hour tour from Avignon balances scenic beauty, cultural sites, and relaxing stops. Its limited group size and multilingual guide make it especially appealing for travelers seeking a personal touch. For $152, it offers a comprehensive taste of Provence’s most celebrated villages and landmarks—all without the hassle of planning individual visits.

Despite some sites requiring additional entry fees, the overall value and convenience make this a strong choice for visitors eager to see Provence’s highlights in one day. It’s best suited for those who want a well-structured, engaging, and comfortable day trip to experience the essence of southern France.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is included in the tour price?
  The toll costs and hotel pick-up are included, but entry fees to sites are not.

• How long is the tour?
  The duration is approximately 9 hours, with multiple stops scheduled throughout the day.

• What languages are available for the guide?
  The tour is conducted in English, Chinese, and French.

• Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
  Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

• Can I cancel the booking?
  Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours before the tour.

• Do I need to pay for additional attractions?
  Yes, entry fees are not included, so plan for extra costs if visiting specific sites.

• What should I bring?
  Comfortable shoes and any personal essentials. Drinks, food, and alcohol are not allowed in the vehicle.

• Where does the tour start and end?
  The tour begins and ends at Avignon’s Office de Tourisme.

This tour offers a beautiful, manageable way to experience Provence’s most photogenic villages and landmarks in a single day, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a relaxed yet rundown of this stunning region.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby