Avignon, with its centuries-old streets and the imposing Palais des Papes, is much more than a historic landmark. It’s a city where food isn’t just sustenance but a way to connect with Provençal culture. The city’s bustling markets, quaint eateries, and local wineries make it an ideal place for food tours that blend history, flavor, and scenery. Among the many options, a few stand out for their authentic experiences, personable guides, and memorable tastings. For instance, the Taste Avignon – A Full French Culinary Tour by Do Eat Better earned a perfect 5-star rating with 126 reviews, offering a relaxed 3.5-hour stroll through some of the best local spots. The tour’s focus on Provençal specialties like tapenade, olive oil, fougasse, and regional wines makes it a fantastic choice for lovers of authentic cuisine.
If you’re interested in exploring Avignon’s historic streets while sampling regional delights, the city offers a variety of engaging options. Whether you prefer shorter tastings paired with city sights or full-day excursions that include vineyard visits, there’s something to suit every taste — literally.
1. Taste Avignon – A Full French Culinary Tour by Do Eat Better
At number one is the Taste Avignon – A Full French Culinary Tour by Do Eat Better. Priced at $110.30 per person and lasting approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, this small-group experience offers a deep dive into Provençal cuisine.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is its blend of food sampling and sightseeing. You’ll start in front of the Palais des Papes, then meander through the city’s historic streets, stopping at local shops and eateries. Highlights include tasting aromatic herbs, regional olive oils, and Provençal specialties like fougasse—a crunchy bread that’s more than just a snack. The tour includes a main dish of quiche served with a glass of Côtes du Rhône wine, giving you a full taste of local flavors. The guide’s stories about Avignon’s history enrich the experience, making it as educational as it is delicious.
Guests praise the tour for its personalized attention and the quality of tastings. One reviewer highlighted the “informative and friendly guide” and the chance to explore the city while enjoying regional delights. This tour is perfect for anyone wanting a comprehensive introduction to Provençal cuisine without feeling overwhelmed.
Bottom Line: An excellent balance of food, culture, and scenery, ideal for first-timers eager to learn about Avignon through its flavors.
2. Avignon: Historic District Guided Food & Wine Walking Tour
Next, the Avignon: Historic District Guided Food & Wine Walking Tour offers a slightly longer experience at 3.5 hours for $111. This tour emphasizes local flavors within the city’s historic fabric, making it perfect for travelers who love both history and culinary delights.
Starting at 5 Rue de la Monnaie, you’ll stroll past key landmarks like Rue Carnot and Les Halles d’Avignon, sampling regional delicacies at each stop. The tour includes tastings of tapenade, fougasse, traditional cakes, and regional wines. The route also takes in iconic sights such as the Pont Saint-Bénézet, providing a scenic backdrop to your food experience. What sets this tour apart is the variety of venues, from trendy restaurants to traditional shops, giving a well-rounded taste of local food culture.
Guests often mention how this tour offers a fresh perspective on the city. One reviewer appreciated discovering hidden culinary spots and gaining a deeper appreciation for Avignon’s vibrant food scene. It’s a good pick for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and tasting.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded walk that combines culinary exploration with a historical walk, suitable for curious travelers eager to see the city through its flavors.
3. Discover Avignon combined with unique food & wine tasting
For those craving a full-day adventure, the Discover Avignon combined with unique food & wine tasting offers an immersive experience lasting about 8 hours for up to 8 people. This tour is pricier at $1,169 but includes not just Avignon but also visits to Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Les Baux-de-Provence.
It begins with a guided city tour, then moves on to wine tastings in renowned vineyards, and finishes with a visit to the picturesque village of Les Baux-de-Provence. The tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive exploration of Provençal cuisine, wine, and scenery in one day. The multi-location nature of the trip means you’ll sample regional specialties and visit iconic sites, making it a rich, full-package experience.
Guests who’ve taken this tour comment on the expert guidance and the chance to combine cultural sights with wine tasting. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a full-day itinerary and eager to indulge in high-end wine and gourmet foods.
Bottom Line: Perfect for serious food and wine lovers who want a luxurious, all-in-one Provençal experience with plenty of sights and tastes.
$1,169 per group up to 8
How to Choose the Best Food Tour in Avignon
When selecting a food tour, consider your interests, budget, and time available. If you’re after an intimate, beginner-friendly experience that highlights Provençal staples, the Taste Avignon culinary walk offers great value and detailed storytelling. For a blend of city sights and local flavors in a leisurely walk, the Historic District Guided Food & Wine Tour is ideal.
If you’re planning a luxury, full-day exploration with wine tasting and scenic drives, the Discover Avignon with food & wine delivers a complete Provençal experience. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, to secure your spot on these popular tours.
Final thoughts
Avignon offers a range of culinary experiences, from short, intimate tastings to full-day excursions combining history, wine, and gourmet food. For most travelers, the Taste Avignon food tour strikes an excellent balance of value, depth, and enjoyment. If you’re passionate about wine or seeking a comprehensive adventure, the full-day trip is worth the splurge.
In any case, booking ahead is wise to ensure you don’t miss out on these flavorful journeys. Whatever your interest level, enjoying Avignon’s food scene guarantees a delicious addition to your Provençal adventure.