Exploring the enchanting region of Provence from Marseille is an opportunity we shouldn’t miss. On this small group tour, we’ll visit the historic Popes’ Palace in Avignon, sample renowned wines in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and marvel at the ancient Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard. Along the way, we’ll stroll through the charming medieval village of Les Baux de Provence, all while enjoying personalized attention from our guide. With so much to see and experience, this tour promises an immersive journey into the heart of Provence.
Key Points
- Full-day tour from Marseille that showcases the highlights of Provence, including Avignon, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Pont du Gard, and Les Baux de Provence.
- Small group size with a maximum of 8 travelers for a personalized experience.
- Opportunity to explore the 14th-century Popes’ Palace, the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge, and Notre-Dame des Doms Cathedral in Avignon.
- Sampling of acclaimed wines and learning about the winemaking heritage of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
- Visit to the UNESCO-listed Pont du Gard and the charming medieval village of Les Baux de Provence.
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Tour Overview and Highlights
This full-day tour from Marseille introduces the highlights of Provence.
We’ll discover the historic town of Avignon, renowned for the Popes’ Palace and medieval bridge.
Next, we’ll venture to Châteauneuf-du-Pape to sample the region’s acclaimed wines.
Later, we’ll explore the UNESCO-listed Pont du Gard, an impressive Roman aqueduct.
Our final stop is the picturesque medieval village of Les Baux de Provence, where we’ll take in panoramic views.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, this small group tour provides an intimate and personalized experience showcasing the best of Provence.
Avignon: Popes’ Palace and Historic Landmarks
As we start our journey in Avignon, we’ll first explore the iconic Popes’ Palace, a 14th-century architectural marvel that served as the seat of the Catholic Church for over 70 years.
We’ll have the option to take an interior tour at our own expense, immersing ourselves in the lavish halls and chambers that once hosted popes and dignitaries.
Next, we’ll stroll across the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge, immortalized in the beloved French song "Sur le Pont d’Avignon."
We’ll also visit the impressive Notre-Dame des Doms Cathedral before enjoying free time for lunch in this historic city.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape: Renowned Wine Region
After exploring the historic landmarks of Avignon, we next head to the renowned wine region of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
We spend an hour sampling acclaimed wines and touring local wineries. The appellation is known for its robust red wines made from a blend of up to 13 grape varieties.
We get to taste the region’s signature Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre grapes. The dramatic terroir of rounded river stones and clay-limestone soils lends the wines their signature bold, complex flavors.
This stop offers a delightful chance to savor the rich winemaking heritage of Provence.
Pont Du Gard: Exploring the Impressive Roman Aqueduct
Next, we head to the impressive Pont du Gard, an iconic Roman aqueduct that has stood the test of time.
Wandering along its ancient arches, we marvel at the engineering prowess of the Romans. This UNESCO-listed site offers a glimpse into the past, with the massive stone structure towering over us.
We explore the ruins, learning about the aqueduct’s history and purpose. The entrance fee is included, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in this remarkable feat of ancient architecture.
From the aqueduct, we soak in the stunning natural surroundings before continuing our journey through Provence.
Les Baux De Provence: Charming Medieval Village
From the Pont du Gard, we venture to the charming medieval village of Les Baux de Provence. As we wander the narrow cobblestone streets, the village’s rich history comes alive. We admire the ancient stone buildings and castle ruins that perch atop a rocky outcrop, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Alpilles mountains.
| Highlights | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Exploring the medieval village | 1 hour | Included |
| Visiting Baux Castle | Optional | Own expense |
| Taking in the panoramic vistas | Flexible | – |
The village’s quaint charm and historical significance make it a must-see stop on our Provençal adventure.
Inclusions, Exclusions, and Important Information
The tour includes transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, a local guide, and entrance to the Pont du Gard.
However, food, drinks, and entrance fees to the Popes’ Palace and Avignon’s bridge aren’t covered.
While children under 4 aren’t allowed, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for pregnant travelers.
The meeting point is at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Marseille, and the tour returns to the same location.
With over 100 positive reviews, you can expect a knowledgeable guide and a well-balanced itinerary showcasing the highlights of Provence.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Meeting and Pickup Details
Where’s the meeting point for this Provence Small Group Tour?
The tour meets at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Marseille Vieux Port, 38-40 Quai de Rive Neuve, 13007 Marseille. This is where we’ll start and end our day exploring Provence.
The tour departs at 8:00 am, so we recommend arriving a few minutes early to meet the group. At the end of the day, the tour returns to the same meeting point.
Just a heads up, this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers. Children under 4 are also not allowed.
With those details in mind, let’s dive into our Provence adventure!
More Of Our Reviews In This Region
- Sunset Lavender Tour in Valensole With Pickup From Marseille
- Châteauneuf Du Pape Intensive Vineyard & Fine Wine Experience
- Guided Hike in the Calanques National Park
- St Rémy De Provence & Arles Julius Caesar to Vincent Van Gogh
- Spectacular Luberon Villages – Gordes to Lourmarin Private Tour
- Avignons History, Local Culture & the Wines of Châteauneuf Du Pape Private Tour
Customer Reviews and Feedback
We can see that this Provence Small Group Tour has received over 100 reviews, with an impressive average rating of 4.5 stars.
Positive comments highlight the knowledgeable guides, well-balanced itineraries, and beautiful sights. Constructive feedback includes issues with guide language proficiency and van space.
Notable guides mentioned include Morgane, Laurent, Florence, and Nicolas. The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which provides flexibility.
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The Sum Up
Provence’s enchanting beauty and rich history come alive on this immersive small group tour. From the grandeur of the Popes’ Palace to the charming medieval villages, we’ll explore the region’s highlights with personalized attention. Whether you’re savoring world-renowned wines or marveling at the impressive Roman architecture, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the essence of Provence.