Avignon is a treasure trove for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture. Its narrow streets, ancient walls, and impressive landmarks like the Palais des Papes make it a perfect city to explore through guided tours. If you’re fascinated by medieval history or Roman ruins, Avignon offers a variety of experiences that bring its past vividly to life. Among our favorites is the Avignon: History and Legend Walking Tour, which combines storytelling with a walk through the city’s most iconic sights. This tour’s lively narration makes history accessible and fun, especially when you stop to admire architecture and hidden alleyways.
For those who want to combine history with culinary delights, the Avignon: Historic District Guided Food & Wine Walking Tour is a fantastic option, offering not just sights but also tastings of regional specialties. And if ancient ruins are your passion, the Roman Sites and Historical Places Day Trip from Avignon delivers an immersive experience of Roman architecture. Whether you prefer a relaxed walk, a gourmet experience, or a full-day Roman adventure, Avignon’s tours offer something for every history enthusiast.
1. Avignon: History and Legend Walking Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Avignon: History and Legend Walking Tour is a superb introduction to the city’s storybook streets. For just $23 per person, you get a 2-hour guided stroll through the heart of Avignon’s historic center. The tour starts at 16 Pl. Crillon and takes you past iconic sights like Pont Saint-Bénézet, Palais des Papes, and the Avignon Cathedral. Your guide reveals colorful anecdotes and legends that bring the stone walls to life, making history feel immediate and personal.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on architecture and stories that have shaped Avignon over the centuries. The guide’s enthusiasm is contagious, and their commentary makes the city’s cobblestone streets and hidden alleys more meaningful. The itinerary includes stops at impressive landmarks and photo opportunities, like the Pont Saint-Bénézet, and finishes at Rue de la République. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a rundown without a huge time commitment. The reviews are glowing—102 people rated it 4.7 out of 5—highlighting the lively storytelling and the value for the price.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a compact, engaging introduction to Avignon’s highlights.
2. Avignon: Historic District Guided Food & Wine Walking Tour
Number 2 is the Avignon: Historic District Guided Food & Wine Walking Tour, which offers a flavorful twist on exploring the city. For $111, you’ll spend 3.5 hours wandering through old town alleys, tasting regional delicacies at local eateries, and sipping on regional wines. The tour begins at 5 Rue de la Monnaie and meanders through places like Les Halles d’Avignon and Place des Corps Saints, where your guide introduces you to authentic Provençal flavors.
This tour is more than just a food crawl; it’s a deep dive into Avignon’s culinary heritage. As you sample tapenades, fougasses, traditional cakes, and wines, you’ll gain a taste of local life and history. The stops at trendier restaurants and historic shops give a real sense of the city’s gastronomic culture. Guests consistently praise the variety and quality of tastings and mention how the guide enhances the experience with fascinating stories. It’s an excellent choice for food lovers who want a relaxed, immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who enjoy good food and wine, and want to see Avignon from a delicious new perspective.
3. Roman Sites and Historical Places Day Trip from Avignon
At number 3, the Roman Sites and Historical Places Day Trip from Avignon is a full-day adventure focusing on ancient times. Priced at $191.58, it covers 8.5 hours, including visits to Nîmes, Orange, and Pont du Gard. The tour starts with a visit to Nîmes’ Roman amphitheater, still used today for bullfights and concerts, and the well-preserved Maison Carrée.
What makes this trip special is the chance to walk in the footsteps of Romans and see their engineering masterpieces firsthand. The Pont du Gard aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an engineering marvel and a highlight of this tour. You’ll also explore the Roman Theatre of Orange, one of the best-preserved ancient theatres. The tour’s small-group format (limited to eight people) ensures personalized attention, and reviewers rave about the knowledgeable guides—Jeremy and Bastien—who make the history engaging and fun.
If you’re into Roman architecture, archaeology, and history, this tour offers an immersive, well-curated experience. The inclusion of iconic sites makes it one of the most comprehensive Roman-themed excursions from Avignon.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history lovers eager to explore Roman ruins and learn about ancient France in a comfortable, small-group setting.
4. Avignon: Private Walking Tour – Discover History & Heritage
Number 4 on our list is the Avignon: Private Walking Tour, offering a personalized exploration of the city’s most significant sights. With options for 2 or 3 hours, this tour is perfect if you prefer a more tailored experience. Starting at 19 Pl. de l’Horloge, your guide focuses on history, culture, and architecture, with primary stops at the Palais des Papes (from outside for the 2-hour tour) and the Saint Bénezet Bridge (walkable during the 3-hour version).
The advantage of a private tour is the flexibility—you can customize your itinerary or focus on specific interests like medieval fortifications or city legends. Your guide, with local expertise, shares stories about Avignon’s medieval past, the Pope’s Palace, and the city’s narrow cobblestone streets. Reviews note that guides like Bastien and Jeremy are very knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience memorable.
Though more expensive at $210 per person, this tour offers a personalized, flexible experience that’s well worth the extra cost for those seeking tailored insights or traveling with family or small groups.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a private, customizable tour experience with direct access to your guide’s expertise.
5. Arles: Culture & History River Cruise – Day Trip w/Meals
Number 5 is the Arles: Culture & History River Cruise, which combines sightseeing from the river with walking tours of Arles’ Roman sites. For $105, it’s a full-day experience that includes a 4-hour boat cruise on the Rhône, followed by guided visits to the Roman arena and the Roman theatre.
This tour is particularly appealing for its relaxed pace and scenic setting, giving you a different perspective on Provençal history. The cruise offers views of the countryside and the city from the water, making it suitable for travelers who prefer a leisurely, scenic approach. The walking portions focus on Arles’ Roman remains, with guides sharing insights about the city’s role in Roman Gaul. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, culture, and a bit of rest during their day.
Reviews mention the “outstanding journey” and the enjoyable mix of river and land exploration. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a full, yet relaxing day.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who enjoy combining a gentle boat ride with historical exploration.
6. Guided tour of the Historic Center of Avignon
Finally, the Guided tour of the Historic Center of Avignon offers a 3-hour deep dive into the city’s art, architecture, and stories. Starting at the Temple Saint Martial, the tour includes stops at the Street of Dyers (Rue de Teinturiers), Les Halles, and the Collegiale Saint-Didier. This tour emphasizes the blending of Provençal and Occitanie influences and how these styles shaped local art and architecture.
This experience is highly focused on cultural heritage, with guides sharing anecdotes about the Gothic style and medieval craftsmanship. The reviews are positive, noting that the guide’s knowledge makes the history come alive. It’s ideal for travelers interested in art history and local legends, offering a thorough walk through key sites.
At $79, it’s a budget-friendly option that provides a rundown of the city’s historic and artistic layers.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting an intimate, art-focused exploration of Avignon’s historic heart.
How to Choose Your Perfect Avignon Historical Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your interests, budget, and time availability. If you want a quick, lively overview, the History and Legend Walking Tour is a great start. For food and wine aficionados, the Food & Wine Tour offers a delicious way to explore. History buffs with a full day to spare should consider the Roman sites trip, which includes iconic ancient landmarks. For a tailored experience, the Private Walking Tour provides flexibility and intimacy.
Think about whether you prefer walking, small-group, private, or combined river and land experiences, and book early, especially during peak seasons. Each tour offers a different lens—whether it’s legends, cuisine, Roman ruins, or local art—making Avignon a city that can satisfy any curiosity about its layered past.
Avignon’s wide-ranging historical tours mean there’s something to match your pace and interests. Whether you’re drawn to medieval architecture, Roman engineering, or culinary heritage, you’ll find a tour that brings this fascinating city’s past vividly to life. For a memorable visit, consider booking a couple of these experiences, and always reserve early to secure your spot.