Aix-en-Provence is a fantastic base for exploring southern France’s delights, especially if you enjoy full-day tours that combine scenic beauty, history, and local flavor. Unlike just wandering through town, these guided experiences give you a deeper dive into the region’s best-kept secrets — from the vineyards of Châteauneuf du Pape to the charming villages of Luberon. We particularly love the Provence Small Group Wine Full Day Tour in Châteauneuf du Pape for its intimacy and expert-guided tastings, as well as the Full Day E-bike Tour in the Luberon Region for active travelers eager to pedal through Provence’s iconic landscapes. Each offers a unique way to see this beautiful corner of France.
Below is a quick overview of some of the best full-day tours you can enjoy from Aix-en-Provence:
- Wine-focused tours such as the Châteauneuf du Pape and Luberon wine tour for those passionate about France’s world-famous wines.
- Village visits like the Luberon Villages Tour that showcase Provence’s charming, colorful towns.
- Active explorations such as the E-bike Tour that combines sightseeing with a healthy dose of cycling.
Let’s explore each in detail to help you find the perfect match for your interests and travel style.
1. Provence Small Group Wine Full Day Tour in Chateauneuf du Pape vineyard from Aix
At number 1, this small group wine tour offers a personalized experience exploring one of Provence’s most iconic wine regions. For approximately $190, you’ll spend around 8 hours immersed in the rolling vineyards of Châteauneuf du Pape, a region with roots dating back to Roman times. Your guide takes you comfortably around in air-conditioned vehicles to visit two distinguished wineries, where you’ll taste local wines and learn to identify their distinctive flavors. The tour also features a visit to the ancient castle and panoramic views over the valley—perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the scenery.
What makes this tour stand out is its intimate small-group setting, which fosters relaxed conversations and personalized attention. The reviews highlight how knowledgeable the guides are, with one guest praising Camille’s deep regional expertise. The tour is ideal for wine lovers eager to understand the nuances of Provençal wines while enjoying a scenic, stress-free day. Expect a well-paced itinerary with a mix of history, natural beauty, and excellent tastings.
Bottom Line: If you want a relaxed, educational wine day with a small group and expert guides, this tour offers the best value for a memorable experience.
2. Luberon villages Full-day tour from Aix-en-Provence
At position 2, this Luberon villages tour packs a full day of exploring Provence’s most picturesque towns into approximately 8 hours. Your safe, friendly driver-guide will take you to Lourmarin, Roussillon, Gordes (with its fantastic viewpoint), and Fontaine-de-Vaucluse. Tuesdays offer the chance to stroll through Lourmarin’s market, while Sundays bring extra time at L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue for its renowned antiques fair. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a broad taste of Provençal life, architecture, and local markets.
What makes this tour compelling is its focus on the most diverse and visually stunning villages. The driver-guide ensures you get the most out of each stop without feeling rushed. The reviews praise the entertaining guides and efficient itinerary, making it suitable for those who want a relaxed but comprehensive day out. This is a great option for history, architecture, and market enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: For a well-rounded, leisurely exploration of Provence’s charming villages, this tour offers excellent variety and an easy pace.
3. Full day Wine Tour around Luberon from Aix en Provence
Number 3 is a favorite among wine fans, offering a full day of touring three different vineyards with visits to the charming village of Lourmarin. For about $184, this wine tour combines guided winery visits with tastings of reds, rosés, and whites, along with behind-the-scenes looks at winemaking facilities. The tour lasts about 7.5 hours, with a small-group setting in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan.
What sets this apart is its specific focus on wine—visiting well-chosen estates and learning about production techniques firsthand. The guide, Stephane, is highly praised for his knowledge, making even technical questions understandable. The included visit to Lourmarin adds a taste of Provençal charm, with free time to explore independently. Guests often comment on the quality and variety of wines tasted, and many end up purchasing bottles to ship home.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts who want to deepen their understanding of regional wines while enjoying the beautiful scenery and a picturesque village.
4. Full Day E-bike Tour in the Luberon Region from Aix en Provence
Closing at number 4, this E-bike tour offers an active way to experience Provence’s stunning landscape. For around $189, you’ll pedal through vineyards, olive groves, and quaint villages like Bonnieux, Lacoste, and Menerbes—some of the most iconic in the Luberon. The day begins with a transfer to Bonnieux, where you’ll handle your modern e-bike, making the ride accessible even for those with moderate fitness levels.
This tour is praised for its scenic routes, easy rides, and Ines’ knowledgeable guidance. Highlights include crossing Lacoste, free time in Menerbes for lunch, and the chance to absorb the countryside’s quiet beauty. Reviews commend the bikes’ quality and the pleasant pace, making it suitable for active travelers who want more than just sightseeing.
Bottom Line: For those looking to combine outdoor activity with breathtaking scenery, this e-bike adventure delivers a memorable, healthy way to explore Provence.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, interests, and energy levels. If wine is your passion, the Provence Small Group Wine Tour offers expert tastings and historical sights in a relaxed setting. For a taste of Provence’s villages, the Luberon Villages Tour provides a broader cultural experience with market days and scenic viewpoints. Active travelers who want to combine exercise with scenery will find the E-bike Tour a perfect fit, especially if you’re comfortable cycling for several hours.
Budget-conscious travelers can opt for the Luberon villages tour for great value, while those seeking an immersive wine day might prefer the full wine tour with multiple vineyard visits. Remember to book early, especially in high season, to secure your preferred date.
In summary, Aix-en-Provence offers a wide range of full-day tours that cater to different interests. Whether you want to savor local wines, explore charming villages, or cycle through stunning landscapes, there’s an experience waiting for you. For the best trip, pick what excites you most and book early to ensure a smooth, memorable adventure.