Roussillon and its surrounding villages are a treasure trove for travelers who want more than just pretty photos. The region’s blend of colorful cliffs, historic villages, and fragrant lavender fields makes it ideal for carefully curated tours that offer a taste of authentic Provence. Among the many options, these tours stand out for their well-rounded itineraries, expert guides, and unique experiences. For example, the Aix en Provence: Hill Villages, Olive Mill, & Petanque Tour combines stunning scenery with local flavors and playful pétanque, making it a favorite for those wanting both scenic views and a taste of local life.
If you’re short on time but want a quick dose of lavender and Provençal charm, the au départ Avignon: half-day lavender tour offers a breath of fragrant air in just five hours. Meanwhile, the Avignon: Luberon, Gordes, and Roussillon Half-Day Tour is perfect for travelers eager to explore iconic villages and scenic landscapes with a knowledgeable guide. And for those who want to see lavender in bloom while soaking up history, the departing from Avignon, Classic lavender tour is a long, immersive day that captures Provence’s colorful essence.
1. Aix en Provence: Hill Villages, Olive Mill, & Petanque Tour
At number one, this Aix en Provence tour offers an 8-hour exploration of Provence’s most picturesque hilltop villages. You start at the Office de Tourisme d’Aix-en-Provence and travel by van to Gordes, a village famous for its cliffside setting and stunning views. Next, you’ll wander through Roussillon, known for its striking ochre cliffs and streets painted in warm hues. The tour includes free time for lunch in Lourmarin, a charming village filled with narrow streets and local cafes, perfect for tasting Provençal specialties.
What makes this tour stand out is its mix of sightseeing and interactive experiences. You’ll play pétanque under ancient trees, a fun way to connect with Provençal culture, and visit a family-owned olive mill for a tasting of authentic oils. The guide’s extensive knowledge and relaxed style make even the busy itinerary feel intimate. The reviews, averaging 4.9/5, praise the scenic stops and local flavor—and the opportunity to discover hidden corners not always on the tourist trail.
Bottom line: This tour is excellent for travelers who want a full day of scenic villages, local tastes, and hands-on fun, all led by a passionate guide.
2. au départ Avignon: half-day lavender tour
For those with limited time, the half-day lavender tour departing from Avignon is a fragrant, relaxing option. It lasts just five hours but packs in lavender fields in full bloom, the quarries of Roussillon, and the historic Senanque Abbey. The drive takes you through scenic countryside, with ample time to snap photos of the lavender’s vibrant purples.
This tour is particularly appealing for lovers of aromatic Provence and those curious about monastic life, thanks to the visit to Senanque Abbey, where monks still harvest lavender. The tour’s shorter duration makes it ideal for travelers with limited days, but you still get a good taste of the region’s colors and scents. It’s highly rated at 4.8/5, with visitors describing it as “a peaceful, aromatic escape into Provence’s most iconic landscapes.”
Bottom line: Perfect for lavender lovers and those short on time, this tour delivers Provence’s essence in a few hours, with beautiful photo stops and cultural insights.
3. Avignon: Luberon, Gordes, and Roussillon Half-Day Tour
Ranking at the top with a perfect 5/5 review score, this half-day tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, history, and personal exploration. Starting from the Office de Tourisme d’Avignon, you’ll travel by van through the Luberon region, renowned for its rolling hills and charming villages. The itinerary includes stops at Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, a picturesque village sitting beside a giant spring, and Sénanque Abbey, a peaceful monastery surrounded by fields of lavender.
What sets this tour apart is the expert guide, known for her warmth and ability to tailor the experience. You get ample time to wander Gordes and Roussillon independently, allowing for personal exploration and photography. Reviewers love the depth of knowledge combined with humor, making Provence’s landscape come alive. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a comprehensive afternoon with plenty of photo opportunities and local insights.
Bottom line: This tour suits those who want a well-paced, informative experience with enough freedom to explore key villages on their own.
4. departing from Avignon, Classic lavender tour
For those seeking a full day of lavender and Provençal scenery, the classic lavender tour is a 9-hour journey that hits the highlights of Vaucluse, Roussillon, Gordes, and Sault. It’s perfect for travelers who want to enjoy Provence’s colors, visiting the vibrant lavender fields of Sault (only in July), the hilltop village of Gordes, and the famous Sénanque Abbey.
The tour begins at the Office de Tourisme d’Avignon and includes multiple stops for photo ops and cultural visits. The itinerary is designed for those eager to experience Provence’s visual palette and aromatic essence in one comprehensive day. The reviews, at 4.7/5, highlight the long, immersive experience and beautiful scenery.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers with a full day to explore Provence’s most colorful and fragrant sights, especially during lavender bloom season.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Roussillon
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests, time availability, and budget. For a full day of scenic villages, olive oil tasting, and local culture, the Aix en Provence: Hill Villages, Olive Mill, & Petanque Tour offers a rich experience. If you’re short on time but want a fragrant taste of lavender, the half-day lavender tour is perfect. The Luberon and Roussillon half-day balances scenic exploration with freedom to wander, ideal for photography enthusiasts. And during July, the classic lavender tour delivers Provence’s most iconic summer scenery.
Think about your preferred pace, whether you want a guided full experience or independent exploration, and your interest in food, history, or scenery. Booking early is wise, especially in high season, to secure your spot and enjoy a seamless Provence adventure.
Final Thoughts
From scenic hill villages and colorful cliffs to fragrant lavender fields, Roussillon and its surrounding region offer a variety of tours that cater to different interests and schedules. If you’re after a full day with local tastings and fun activities, the Aix en Provence tour is a top choice. For shorter trips focused on lavender or a mix of villages, options like the half-day tour from Avignon or Luberon-focused trip shine.
No matter which you pick, booking in advance and planning around seasonal highlights—like lavender bloom in July—will help you get the most out of your Provençal adventure.