Avignon isn’t just about stunning architecture and medieval walls—it’s also a lively hub for interactive workshops and culinary classes that let you experience Provence like a local. Whether you want to master Provençal cooking, learn the art of pétanque, or craft your own wine blend, this city offers authentic experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing. For example, Gina’s cooking lessons stand out because of her background in Parisian bistros and her dedication to sustainable, joyful cooking. Meanwhile, the petanque lesson in Lourmarin promises a fun, relaxed way to connect with Provençal culture through this classic sport.
If you’re a foodie or a curious traveler eager to get your hands dirty, Avignon’s workshops offer a taste of local life. For those interested in regional traditions, wine blending and truffle tours provide immersive insights. We’ve highlighted a variety of options—each appealing to different tastes and budgets—so you can choose the perfect way to deepen your experience of Provence.
1. Cooking lessons
At number 1, Gina’s cooking lessons bring a hands-on approach to Provençal cuisine in her home in Avignon. With a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 40 reviews, Gina’s class is highly praised for its intimate size—small groups of just four—creating a warm, personalized atmosphere. She guides you through selecting fresh products at the Les Halles market, then teaches you how to cook typical Provençal dishes with a modern twist. The class culminates with sharing your creation on her rooftop terrace overlooking the Palais des Papes, which makes for a memorable meal.
What makes this experience special is Gina’s background as the former creator of a Parisian bistro dedicated to Southern France’s culinary and wine traditions. Guests love how she combines traditional techniques with a focus on health and sustainability. The reviews highlight the fun and laughter shared during the class, along with the chance to learn about Provençal food culture in a relaxed setting. For around $286, you get a comprehensive four-hour experience that is perfect for food lovers who want authenticity and a personal touch.
Bottom Line: If you’re seeking an intimate, engaging cooking class led by a passionate local chef, Gina’s lessons offer great value—and a delicious rooftop lunch to top it off.
2. Cooking workshop with an exceptional chef in Avignon
Next on our list, the Cooking workshop with an exceptional chef is set inside the lively Les Halles Market. Priced at about $221, this four-hour experience combines market shopping with hands-on cooking led by a master chef. You’ll pick fresh ingredients directly from the vendors, then learn to prepare a menu featuring Provençal produce and classic French dishes in the market’s Cuisine Centr’Halles.
Guests love how the chef shares tips on everything from cheese varieties to knife skills, making it ideal for anyone wanting to learn French culinary techniques. The class concludes with a shared meal—delicious, freshly cooked, and paired with wine and coffee. The reviews highlight the friendly atmosphere and the chef’s ability to make complex techniques accessible, even for beginners. For those who want a true insider’s experience of Avignon’s vibrant food scene, this option provides a rich, immersive morning.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies who want to learn authentic French cooking techniques in a lively market setting, with the bonus of a tasty meal to enjoy together.
3. Petanque (boules) lesson in Provence
Number 3 offers a delightful petanque lesson in the picturesque village of Lourmarin, rated 5.0/5 from 16 reviews. For just over $54, you’ll learn the rules, techniques, and history of this iconic French sport—an essential part of Provençal culture. The lesson lasts about two hours and includes playing a few friendly games with your instructor, who explains strategic tips as you go.
The setting couldn’t be better—an idyllic Provencal village with traditional snacks, local wine, and homemade pastis to keep you energized. Several reviewers mention how much fun it was, with one describing it as “absolute fun,” and appreciating the social aspect and gourmet treats. The opportunity to win a trophy adds a bit of friendly competition, making it a perfect half-day activity for families, couples, or groups of friends.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a relaxed and social way to experience Provençal culture, the pétanque lesson offers fun, food, and a chance to practice a French pastime in style.
4. Cooking Classes in Provence at La Belugue
For about $226, the Cooking Classes at La Belugue deliver a half-day of traditional Provencal cooking in an 18th-century farmhouse near Beaumont-de-Pertuis. This small-group experience emphasizes hands-on guidance as you learn to prepare hearty dishes like daube, aioli, and gratin. The class is perfect for those who want a fully immersive culinary experience, with the opportunity to cook alongside local chefs and then sit down together to enjoy your meal.
What sets this apart is the authentic setting and the focus on regional recipes that have stood the test of time. Guests mention the warm environment and the chance to learn techniques that can be recreated at home. It’s suited for travelers who love both cooking and rural Provençal charm, and who want to keep their skills in their back pocket long after their trip ends.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, hands-on Provençal cooking class offering authentic recipes in a beautiful, rural setting—ideal for culinary enthusiasts.
5. From location: Truffle farm visit, culinary workshop, meal
Number 5, the Truffle farm visit and culinary workshop, offers a rare chance to understand France’s prized black truffles. For approximately $228, you start at a plantation, learn about truffle cultivation, then participate in a cooking class focused on truffle dishes. The experience finishes with a multi-course tasting, covering everything from starters to desserts, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions.
Rated 5/5 from just three reviews, this tour appeals to foodies eager for a deep dive into truffle culture. The highlight is the chance to ask all your questions about truffles and see how they are harvested and integrated into French cuisine. It’s perfect for those interested in gourmet ingredients and regional specialties, especially since it includes a visit to a production site in the heart of black truffle country.
Bottom Line: A unique, interactive way to explore one of Provence’s most iconic ingredients—ideal for gourmets and curious cooks alike.
6. THE CREATION – Assembly & tasting workshop
The Creation workshop is a compact, two-hour experience focused on wine blending. For $52, you’ll learn about the different grape varieties of the Rhône valley, then create your own personalized blend with guidance from an oenologist. It’s a creative, interactive way to understand what makes Provençal wines unique.
Rated 5/5 from two reviews, the workshop emphasizes the art of blending and tasting. Guests particularly enjoy experimenting with different combinations and taking home a bottle of their own creation. If you’re a wine lover or want to understand regional wine styles better, this short but engaging class offers excellent value and a memorable souvenir.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine enthusiasts interested in the craft of blending, with a fun, educational twist in a relaxed setting.
7. Private Provence Olive Oil + Wine Tasting & Vinaigrette Workshop
This olive oil and wine tasting in Gordes combines an intimate tour of olive groves with a hands-on vinaigrette workshop. Costing around $269, it lasts about three hours and includes tasting a variety of olive oils, learning how to cook with them, and blending your own bottle as a souvenir.
Guests praise the hosts’ expertise and the chance to learn about olive cultivation and tasting techniques. The food pairing with charcuterie, olives, and tapenade, complemented by regional wines, offers a comprehensive taste of Provençal produce. This experience is suited for travelers who want a sophisticated, authentic food-and-drink immersion.
Bottom Line: An engaging, boutique experience perfect for food and wine lovers seeking an upscale, personalized Provençal tasting.
8. Avignon: Cooking Class and Lunch with a Local Chef
The Cooking Class and Lunch with a Local Chef offers a five-hour deep dive into Provençal cuisine. For about $441, you’ll visit an indoor market to pick ingredients, learn to cook several dishes, then enjoy your creations with wine and conversation.
Ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive culinary experience, this class emphasizes practical skills and regional ingredients. The reviews note the professional guidance, the delicious food, and the opportunity to take home new recipes and techniques. It’s best suited for foodies who want to recreate Provençal flavors at home.
Bottom Line: A premium, in-depth experience for those eager to learn chef-level techniques and enjoy a full Provençal meal.
9. Exceptional cookery workshop or course in Avignon
Lastly, the Exceptional cookery workshop offers a relaxed, private setting to prepare 2 or 3 dishes over five hours. Although ratings aren’t specified, the focus on local, fresh ingredients and the chance to taste your dishes makes it appealing for those looking for a personalized culinary experience.
This workshop is perfect for small groups or couples who want a flexible, convivial cooking session in Provence. It emphasizes learning about regional products and sharing a delicious meal together.
Bottom Line: A flexible, intimate option for serious home cooks or couples who want a tailored culinary experience in a friendly environment.
$293 per person
How to Choose the Right Workshop or Class
When selecting your ideal culinary or cultural workshop in Avignon, consider your interests, budget, and time constraints. If you’re passionate about cooking and want a personalized experience, Gina’s lessons or La Belugue’s cooking classes are excellent options. Interested in regional ingredients? The truffle farm tour or olive oil tasting will deepen your understanding and appreciation of Provençal products.
For a fun, low-key activity, the pétanque lesson is perfect, while wine lovers should consider the wine blending workshop. Budget-wise, the pétanque and wine blending experiences are among the most affordable, while the cooking classes and market tours offer more comprehensive culinary immersion.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular experiences like Gina’s class or the private olive oil-tasting, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Avignon’s workshops and classes provide a wonderful way to connect with Provençal culture, food, and traditions. From intimate cooking lessons to hands-on wine blending and pétanque, there’s something for every curious traveler. For a truly memorable experience, consider pairing a culinary class with a local market visit or a truffle tour—they’re the kinds of experiences you’ll talk about long after your trip.
If you’re ready to go, booking in advance ensures a spot in these popular activities. Whether you choose a relaxed pétanque game, a gourmet truffle tasting, or a hands-on cooking class, you’ll walk away with new skills, authentic memories, and a deeper appreciation for Provence’s rich traditions.