Imagine exploring the rolling hills, ancient ruins, and colorful villages of Provence—all in one well-paced day. For $150.61 per person, this full-day tour from Avignon offers an intimate experience with a maximum of 8 travelers, guided by knowledgeable locals who bring the region’s stories to life. Led by guides like Natalie and Anna, you’ll visit iconic sights such as the Pont du Gard, the Senanque Abbey, and the picture-perfect villages of Gordes, Roussillon, and les Baux de Provence.
What makes this trip stand out? First, the small group size ensures personalized attention and more meaningful interactions. Second, the combination of UNESCO World Heritage sites, charming towns, and scenic landscapes provides a well-rounded introduction to Provence’s essence. The only caveat? Depending on the season, you might not see the famous lavender fields in full bloom, but the rest of the itinerary still makes for an inspiring day.
This tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want a rundown without the hassle of planning, or travelers short on time who want a taste of Provence’s highlights. If you’re eager to walk through history, marvel at Roman engineering, or wander colorful villages, this is a solid choice.
Key Points
- Intimate group size offers a more personalized experience
- Visit iconic sites like Pont du Gard and Senanque Abbey
- Explore picturesque villages such as Gordes and Roussillon
- Seasonal lavender fields may be in bloom, depending on the time of year
- Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding and enjoyment
- Flexible itinerary allows ample time at each stop for exploration
A Deep Dive into the Provence Highlights Tour
Planning more time in Avignon? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Essentials: What Is This Tour All About?
This 9.5-hour excursion from Avignon is designed to give you a concentrated dose of Provence’s best-loved sights. It’s a well-organized way to see a mix of ancient Roman architecture, medieval hilltop villages, and artistic landscapes inspired by Van Gogh. All of this is achieved comfortably in a small, air-conditioned vehicle, with a maximum of 8 travelers—a small enough group to feel personal but large enough to keep the energy lively.
The tour is priced at $150.61 per person, which, considering the number of sites visited and the included expert guiding, offers great value. Many travelers book 52 days in advance, reflecting its popularity among first-time visitors eager to maximize their time in Provence.
The Highlights: What’s Included?
Pont du Gard is the first stop, an engineering marvel of the 1st century AD. Built as part of a lengthy aqueduct, this UNESCO World Heritage site features a majestic three-tiered structure that still impresses today. Expect about 45 minutes here, enough time to walk around, take photos, and marvel at Roman ingenuity. Note that admission is not included, so you might want to budget a small extra fee if you wish to explore inside.
Next, you’ll visit the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Senanque, a quintessential Provencal monastery famously surrounded by lavender fields in season. While the tour stops here for 10 minutes for photos, there’s no internal admission fee, making it a quick but meaningful glance at monastic life amidst natural beauty.
Fontaine de Vaucluse offers a natural spectacle—Europe’s most copiously flowing spring, surging with water and showcasing the powerful forces of nature. With 45 minutes, this stop provides a peaceful moment to admire the swirling waters and maybe snap some photos of the scenic surroundings.
The charming village of Gordes is a highlight for many, with its cobblestone streets and stunning views. You’ll have 30 minutes here to wander and soak in the Provençal atmosphere. It’s a postcard-perfect spot, with many visitors noting it as one of the most beautiful villages in France.
Roussillon is renowned for its vibrant ochre deposits—a splash of natural pigment in the landscape and architecture. With 1.5 hours allocated, you have plenty of time to stroll its colorful streets, explore the ochre quarry, and appreciate how natural pigments have shaped this community’s history.
Lunch is included in your itinerary, with 1 hour 30 minutes free for a sit-down meal—an opportunity to savor local Provencal cuisine, perhaps in one of the village cafés or restaurants. This break allows you to relax and reflect on the morning’s sights.
Later, you’ll explore Saint-Remy-de-Provence, a town with winding streets, fountains, and boutique shops, offering a taste of Provençal village life. A 45-minute walk here is enough to see the highlights and enjoy the ambiance.
The day wraps up at Les Baux de Provence, a legendary fortress village perched high on a hill. Classified as one of France’s most beautiful villages, Les Baux offers historic architecture, stunning vistas, and a palpable sense of history. You’ll have about an hour to explore and take in the views.
Personal Experiences and Visitor Feedback
Many reviews emphasize the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Natalie and Anna. Hannah F. praised Anna for her grasp on the area and restaurant tips, while Julie L. appreciated the extra insights provided during the tour. Travelers often mention that the small group size fosters a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere—”a wonderful day with Natalie, packed with sights and info,” as one reviewer put it.
Some travelers note the fast pace—particularly during walking tours—and the challenge of hearing instructions clearly, especially in noisy or outdoor environments. A few suggested that a microphone system could improve the experience, which is a helpful tip if you’re sensitive to audio clarity.
Practicalities: What You Need to Know
The tour departs at 9:00 am from Avignon and returns to the same point, making it convenient for those staying in the city. It’s near public transportation, and service animals are permitted. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult, so it’s suitable for families with older kids who can handle a full day of sightseeing.
While the price includes most stops, keep in mind that admission tickets for certain sites like Pont du Gard are not included, so plan accordingly if you want to explore inside. The longer duration—nearly 10 hours—means comfortable shoes and an appetite for both sightseeing and a leisurely lunch.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
If you’re visiting Provence for the first time or have limited days, this tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of the region’s most iconic sights. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who appreciate small group sizes, want an expert guide, and enjoy a structured plan that maximizes sightseeing without feeling rushed.
It’s ideal for those who want to see Roman monuments, colorful villages, and scenic vistas without the hassle of car rentals or complex planning. However, if you’re a dedicated hiker or prefer more time in a single village, you might find the schedule a bit tight.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 9 hours and 30 minutes, including stops for sightseeing and lunch.
Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll travel comfortably in a small, air-conditioned vehicle with a maximum of 8 travelers.
Can I customize the stops?
This is a guided tour with a fixed itinerary, so while your guide can answer questions and offer insights, the stops are pre-set.
Are admission fees included?
Most sites do not include admission, so you may want to bring some extra cash for inside visits such as Pont du Gard if you wish to explore further.
What’s the best time of year to go?
While the tour operates year-round, the lavender fields are seasonal. In spring and summer, you might see them in bloom; otherwise, the other stunning sights still make this tour worthwhile.
Is lunch included?
Yes, you’ll have 1 hour 30 minutes for lunch, during which you can enjoy local Provencal cuisine at a village restaurant.
Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult. The pace and content suit families with older kids comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and a camera. Budget extra for site admissions and souvenirs.
Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group setting makes it easy to meet others and enjoy a more personalized experience.
Final Thoughts
This Provence Highlights Tour from Avignon offers a well-balanced and engaging way to see some of the most treasured sights of the region. With passionate guides, a manageable pace, and a variety of landscapes and towns, it’s a fantastic option for those new to Provence or visitors with limited time. The emphasis on authentic villages, Roman engineering marvels, and scenic beauty guarantees a memorable day that captures the spirit of Provence.
While it’s not a deep dive into every village or site, it’s a thoughtfully designed overview—perfect for getting your first impressions and setting the stage for a more detailed exploration later. If you love guided experiences that combine history, natural beauty, and local charm, this tour is worth considering.
In brief, whether you’re marveling at the Roman aqueduct, wandering through ochre-colored streets, or soaking in views from a hilltop fortress, you’ll come away with a great sense of Provence’s soul—all in one practical, enjoyable day. This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want a compact, expertly guided introduction to the region’s most photogenic and historically significant landmarks.