Marseille: Avignon and Côtes Du Rhône Wine Tasting Tour

Marseille offers a gateway to the enchanting Avignon and the renowned Châteauneuf-du-Pape region of Côtes Du Rhône. This 8-hour tour immerses visitors in the rich history and exquisite wines of southern France. Guests will explore the historic charm of Avignon, then venture into the vineyards to sample exceptional wines, gaining insights into local terroirs and winemaking traditions. With a small group size, this intimate experience promises a memorable journey through France’s finest vineyards. What hidden gems might this tour unveil?

Key Points

• 8-hour guided wine tasting tour from Marseille, including visits to Avignon and the renowned Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Côtes du Rhône appellations.
• Explore the historic Palais des Papes and Pont d’Avignon, and browse the local market for lunch and regional specialties.
• Sample a variety of exceptional red, white, and rosé wines at local wineries, learning about the unique terroir and winemaking techniques.
• Tour limited to 8 guests, available in English and French, with transportation and guide services included.
• Flexible booking policy with reserve now and pay later option, and comfortable shoes recommended due to walking involved.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This wine tasting tour takes participants on an 8-hour exploration of the renowned Côtes du Rhône wine region from Marseille.

Priced from 3,752 CZK per person, the small-group tour is limited to 8 guests and offered in English and French.

Highlights include visits to Avignon’s iconic Palais des Papes and Pont d’Avignon, a local market for lunch, and wine tastings at Châteauneuf-du-Pape and other Côtes du Rhône appellations.

Transportation, guide services, and winery visits are included, while entrance fees and tips are excluded.

Guests should wear comfortable shoes and can opt for a pickup service from Marseille.

Highlights of Avignon

The guided tour begins with a visit to the historic city of Avignon, home to the iconic Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of France’s largest gothic buildings.

Participants will explore the magnificent Palais, marveling at its impressive architecture and rich history.

Next, they’ll see the famous Pont d’Avignon, another UNESCO-listed site, which was a crucial medieval crossing point over the Rhône River.

After exploring Avignon’s landmarks, the group will have time to browse the local market, seeking out fresh produce and regional specialties for lunch.

Wine Tasting at Châteauneuf-du-Pape

After exploring Avignon’s historic sights, the tour then ventures into the renowned Côtes du Rhône wine region.

The first stop is Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a renowned appellation known for its full-bodied, complex red wines.

Guests have the opportunity to:

• Sample several Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines at a local winery

• Learn about the unique terroir and winemaking techniques of the region

• Discover the history and traditions behind this iconic French wine

• Enjoy the stunning views of the vineyards and the medieval village

The wine tasting provides an immersive introduction to the world-class wines of the Côtes du Rhône.

Exploring Côtes Du Rhône AOPS

Beyond Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the tour explores other prestigious Côtes du Rhône AOPs (Appellation d’Origine Protégée) in the region.

Guests may visit vineyards in Gigondas, Cairanne, Rasteau, and Vacqueyras, each with its own unique terroir and grape varietals.

These appellations produce exceptional red, white, and rosé wines, offering a diverse tasting experience.

Guests can expect to learn about the region’s winemaking traditions, sample a range of distinctive vintages, and perhaps even meet the passionate vintners behind these acclaimed labels.

This in-depth exploration provides a deeper understanding of the Côtes du Rhône’s rich viticultural heritage.

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Transportation and Meeting Details

For pickup, the guide/driver will be waiting at the designated location – the Marseille Port Seamans parking (P2, P3, or hangar 19).

Participants should arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

Be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.

It’s important to have an operational phone number on hand for emergency communication during the tour.

The tour highlights several key points:

• Pickup is optional, with the guide/driver waiting at the designated location.

• The departure location is the Marseille Port Seamans parking (P2, P3, or hangar 19).

• Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure.

• Provide an operational phone number for emergency communication.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes pickup, a guide/driver, transport, and wine tastings at 3 to 4 full-day and 1 to 3 half-day winery visits. However, it excludes food, drinks, and entrance tickets to the Pope’s Palace or Pont d’Avignon. Lunch options are available at the local covered market or Roche fines Hostellerie. Bring comfortable shoes, as there’s some walking involved. Travelers can also take advantage of the reserve now & pay later option, allowing them to book without upfront payment.

| Inclusions | Exclusions |

| — | — |

| Pickup | Food and drinks |

| Guide/driver | Entrance tickets |

| Transport | – |

| Wine tastings | – |

| Winery visits | – |

Important Information

Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the tour involves some walking.

Comfortable shoes are recommended as the tour involves some walking.

Participants should also consider bringing:

• A light jacket or sweater in case of cooler weather

• Sun protection like a hat and sunscreen

• A small bag or purse to carry personal items

• Water to stay hydrated during the day

The tour offers a flexible booking policy, allowing travelers to reserve now and pay later, without an upfront payment.

This provides added convenience and flexibility when planning the trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

You can bring your own food and drinks, but they are not included in the tour price. The tour includes wine tastings at vineyards, and lunch options are available at local markets or restaurants.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

While the tour does not explicitly state that it’s suitable for children, the inclusion of wine tastings may make it more appropriate for adults. Parents should consider the child’s interest and ability to participate in the activities.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Customers can usually customize the itinerary to their preferences, but it may incur additional costs or require prior arrangement with the tour provider. It’s best to discuss any specific requests directly with the tour operator.

What Happens if the Weather Is Bad During the Tour?

If the weather is bad, the tour operator will try to adjust the itinerary to accommodate the conditions. They’ll aim to minimize any disruptions and ensure guests enjoy the best experience possible. Flexibility is key when dealing with unpredictable weather.

Do I Need to Speak French to Participate in the Wine Tastings?

No, you don’t need to speak French to participate in the wine tastings. The tour is offered in both English and French, so the guide will translate and assist during the tastings regardless of your language proficiency.

The Sum Up

This enchanting tour immerses you in the rich history and exceptional wines of southern France. Discover the historic charm of Avignon before venturing into the renowned Châteauneuf-du-Pape region to sample exquisite wines. The intimate, small-group experience offers insights into local terroirs and winemaking traditions, ensuring a memorable exploration of France’s finest vineyards.

You can check availability for your dates here: