Roussillon is one of Provence’s most colorful and captivating spots, famous for its vivid ochre cliffs, charming hilltop villages, and fragrant lavender fields. Its landscape is unlike anywhere else in the region, making it an ideal destination for a variety of tours and experiences. Whether you’re into photography, wine tasting, or just soaking in the scenery, Roussillon offers something special. We particularly love the Aix en Provence: Hill Villages, Olive Mill, & Petanque Tour for its blend of scenic villages, authentic food, and hands-on activities—plus, a visit to a family-owned olive mill that truly highlights Provençal life. To get a taste of lavender and the region’s iconic color palette, check out the half-day lavender tour from Avignon, which whisks you through lavender fields and the picturesque village of Gordes.
If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive look at Provence’s best villages and landscapes, the Avignon: Luberon, Gordes, and Roussillon Half-Day Tour is a fantastic option. For a more personalized experience, consider booking a private photoshoot with a professional photographer. Whatever your interests, these tours showcase Provence’s proudest sights and flavors, making your trip to Roussillon truly memorable.
1. Aix en Provence: Hill Villages, Olive Mill, & Petanque Tour
At number 1, this full-day Provence tour takes you through some of the region’s most scenic spots: the hilltop village of Gordes, the colorful streets of Roussillon, and the charming village of Lourmarin. The tour starts with a pickup in Aix-en-Provence and includes a comfortable van ride, giving you plenty of time to absorb the landscape.
What makes this experience stand out is the combination of self-guided explorations and hands-on activities. You’ll enjoy a Provençal lunch in Lourmarin, known for its lively squares and local flavor. The highlight for many is playing pétanque—a traditional Provençal game—under the shade of ancient trees, adding a fun local touch. The visit to a family-owned olive mill is a true treat; you’ll learn about the process of making olive oil and get to taste authentic products. The reviews are excellent, with a 4.9/5 rating, praising the knowledgeable guides and well-paced itinerary. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing, culture, and delicious food, with enough flexibility for personal discovery.
Bottom line: If you enjoy combining sightseeing with interactive and culinary experiences, this tour offers great value and a deep dive into Provençal life.
2. au départ Avignon: half-day lavender tour
Number 2 on our list is the half-day lavender tour from Avignon, which is perfect if you want a quick yet vivid dose of Provence’s signature scent and color. Leaving Avignon, the tour takes you to the fragrant lavender fields of Roussillon and Gordes, along with a visit to the Senanque Abbey, famous for its lavender fields and historic charm. The tour lasts about five hours, making it ideal for travelers with limited time.
This tour shines because of its focus on lavender and iconic Provençal villages. You’ll have free time to walk through the fields and take photos—perfect for capturing that Instagram shot—and explore Gordes’ beautiful streets. The aromatic experience combined with stunning scenery offers a sensory-rich afternoon. While reviews mention a 4.8/5 rating, note that it’s a shorter tour, so it’s best suited for those who want a quick immersion rather than a deep dive.
Bottom line: If lavender and picturesque villages are your main interest and you prefer a shorter trip, this tour delivers a fragrant slice of Provence.
3. Avignon: Luberon, Gordes, and Roussillon Half-Day Tour
At number 3, this half-day tour from Avignon combines a bit of everything—spectacular landscapes, charming villages, and local culture. The tour is tailored for travelers who want to see the region’s highlights without a full-day commitment. It includes a visit to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse for a quick self-guided walk, then stops at Gordes and Roussillon for independent exploration with ample free time.
What makes this trip especially appealing is the emphasis on personal discovery. Your guide, noted for her enthusiasm and humor, balances providing insight with giving you time to wander. The itinerary’s flexibility makes it a favorite among photography fans and literature lovers alike. The tour’s value is high for the price of $99 per person, offering an intimate look at Provence’s signature villages with manageable logistics.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a concise yet enriching experience of Provence’s most photogenic spots, with a friendly guide to enrich your understanding.
4. departing from Avignon, Classic lavender tour
Number 4 is the classic lavender tour from Avignon, which runs about nine hours and is perfect if lavender fields are your main focus. This tour covers Sault and Luberon’s most iconic lavender spots, including visits to hilltop villages like Gordes and Sannes. The itinerary also includes stops at Fontaine-de-Vaucluse and Sénanque Abbey, making it a comprehensive Provence experience.
What stands out is the opportunity to see hundreds of acres of lavender, especially in July when the scent and color are at their peak. The tour emphasizes the beauty and fragrance of Provence, with plenty of time for photos and exploration. Guests love the well-organized day, though it’s a longer commitment. If you’re looking for a full-day immersion into Provence’s signature colors, this tour offers excellent value.
Bottom line: Best suited for lavender lovers willing to spend a full day exploring the region’s most scenic spots.
5. Provence: Private photoshoot by a professional photographer
Finally, for those looking to turn their Provence visit into a treasured keepsake, the private photoshoot with a professional photographer offers a personalized experience. With just an hour, you can choose from locations like lavender fields, hilltop villages, or scenic countryside.
What makes this experience unique is the customized approach—your photographer will help you pose naturally and capture authentic moments. It’s ideal for couples, families, or solo travelers wanting high-quality, emotion-filled images that tell their Provence story. The reviews highlight the professionalism and the joy of having beautiful, lasting photos. While it’s a shorter activity, it provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to document your trip in style.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want professional photos that capture the essence of Provence, creating memories long after the trip ends.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting a tour in Roussillon, consider your interest focus, time constraints, and budget. If you’re passionate about culinary experiences and local culture, the Aix en Provence: Hill Villages, Olive Mill, & Petanque Tour offers a rich day. For those mainly enchanted by lavender and scenic villages, the lavender tours provide stunning visuals and fragrance.
If you prefer a more personalized and flexible experience, the half-day tour from Avignon gives you time to explore on your own, guided by a friendly expert. For photographers or those wanting professional images, the private photoshoot is a great investment.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular lavender season in July, and consider your stamina if opting for full-day tours. All options offer a different way to enjoy Roussillon’s vibrant colors and Provençal charm—pick the one that matches your style and schedule.
Final Thoughts
From scenic hilltop villages and aromatic lavender fields to personalized photoshoots, Roussillon and Provence offer a wide array of tours tailored to different interests and schedules. For a full immersion, the Aix en Provence tour delivers a well-rounded day with cultural and culinary highlights. For a quick yet vivid experience, the lavender tours are hard to beat, especially if you want that iconic scent and color in your photos.
Those seeking a more intimate or customized experience will appreciate the options like the private photoshoot, which ensures you leave with professional-quality images and lasting memories. Whether your priority is scenery, food, or photography, booking in advance will help you make the most of your time in this colorful corner of France.
Enjoy your trip planning, and don’t forget—early booking can mean the difference between a good experience and a great one in Provence’s busy season.