From Avignon: Provence Highlights Full-Day Tour

Traveling through Provence in a single day might seem ambitious, but this full-day tour from Avignon promises a well-balanced taste of the region’s most renowned sights. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of scenic villages, or simply eager to soak in the iconic Provençal vibe, this tour offers a carefully curated itinerary that hits all the highlights.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you’ll get to explore Fontaine de Vaucluse, home to France’s largest spring and a serene spot for nature lovers. Then, the hill-top village of Gordes offers postcard-perfect views and photo ops. Plus, the colorful town of Roussillon, famous for its ochre cliffs, provides a vibrant contrast to the surrounding landscape. Lastly, the day culminates in the awe-inspiring Pont du Gard, a Roman marvel still standing proud after nearly 2,000 years.

A potential consideration is the amount of driving involved; while the tour packs in many sites, it’s quite a full schedule, so patience for long bus rides is key.

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of Provence without the hassle of planning multiple trips or transfers. It’s perfect for first-time visitors, those short on time, or anyone eager to see a mix of natural beauty, history, and authentic villages.

Contents show

Key Points

Comprehensive experience capturing Provence’s most scenic and historic sites in one day
Expert guides provide insightful commentary and local knowledge
Comfortable transport in a small group ensures a personal, relaxed vibe
Flexibility with included entry to Pont du Gard, and optional market visits
Ideal for first-timers wanting a broad overview without the hassle of self-driving
Limited group size enhances interaction and personalized attention

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting at Fontaine de Vaucluse: Nature’s Hidden Gem

The journey begins with a visit to Fontaine de Vaucluse, a spring so vast it’s often called the biggest in France. As you arrive, you’re greeted by lush greenery and the gentle sound of water flowing from the spring’s depths. This spot isn’t just beautiful—it’s a chance to see one of the country’s most impressive natural phenomena.

Reviews highlight how the crystal-clear water and leafy surroundings make it a tranquil start to the day. One guest shared, “What a wonderful way to see a lot of Provence in 1 day. We loved the peaceful environment and the guide’s knowledge about the spring’s significance.” It’s a perfect place for photos and quiet reflection before heading to the bustling villages.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Avignon

Exploring Gordes: The Quintessential Hill-Top Village

Next, the tour takes you into the Luberon Regional Natural Park, home to Gordes, often regarded as one of the most beautiful villages in Provence. Perched atop a hill, its stone houses and narrow winding streets are a photographer’s dream. From the viewpoint, you’ll enjoy sweeping vistas of rolling fields and the surrounding countryside.

The reviews mention the charm of these villages, noting how Gordes offers a genuine taste of Provençal life. You’ll love wandering through its alleys, discovering quaint shops, and perhaps grabbing a coffee in one of the small cafes. The terrain is steep, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Roussillon: The Village of Ochre and Color

Midday, the group heads to Roussillon, famed for its vibrant red cliffs and the historic ochre quarry that has shaped its landscape and architecture. Here, the bold colors of the cliffs contrast beautifully with the blue sky—a sight that’s hard to forget.

A highlight for many visitors is the lunch break in Roussillon. The town offers charming eateries where you can enjoy regional cuisine with a view. Reviewers mention how the vivid hues of the village make it feel like walking through a painter’s palette. One reviewer noted, “The red cliffs and old ochre quarries made Roussillon feel like a living artwork.”

Saint Rémy de Provence & Les Baux de Provence: Artistic and Historic Treasures

In the afternoon, the tour visits Saint Rémy de Provence, known as the birthplace of Nostradamus and a town that inspired Van Gogh’s paintings. The narrow streets, quaint markets, and art galleries evoke a timeless charm. If you visit on a Sunday, you might enjoy the local outdoor market, filled with fresh produce and handmade crafts—an authentic Provençal experience.

Then, a quick drive takes you to Les Baux de Provence, a hilltop village rich in history, with ancient ruins and a commanding view of the surrounding landscape. Walking through its stone streets feels like stepping back in time, and the stories of medieval battles and noble families are palpable in the air.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Grand Finale: The Pont du Gard Roman Aqueduct

The last stop is the Pont du Gard, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most well-preserved Roman aqueducts. This architectural marvel towers 48 meters high and spans nearly 300 meters across the Gardon River. Visitors can walk along its ancient stones, imagining Roman engineers constructing such an enduring structure over two millennia ago.

As one reviewer shared, “The Pont du Gard is a breathtaking reminder of Roman ingenuity. Seeing it up close was a highlight I’ll never forget.” Entry is included in the tour, adding value and convenience to this impressive visit.

There's plenty more to explore in Avignon

Additional Insights from Visitors

Guests often mention the knowledgeable guides, who are fluent in English and French, making the experience both informative and personable. One reviewer appreciated how the guide, whose name appears to be well-informed about agriculture, history, and local lore, added layers of understanding to each site.

The small group size—limited to 8 participants—means everyone gets attention and space to ask questions. Many commented on how this intimate setting enhanced their enjoyment and allowed for spontaneous conversations and photo stops.

Transportation, Timing, and Practicalities

The tour runs about 9 hours, with the starting time varying based on availability. Transportation is by air-conditioned minivan, which is a comfortable way to cover the long distances between sites. Since there’s no hotel pickup included, it’s best to meet at the designated Tourism Office in Avignon.

Given the full day’s schedule, travelers should be prepared for some long hours in the vehicle, but the pace is balanced with ample time at each stop for exploration and photos. The inclusion of bottled water keeps everyone refreshed, and the fact that the tour is canceled with a full refund if booked a day in advance adds flexibility.

This experience is ideal for those who want to see a broad sweep of Provence’s most iconic sights without the hassle of self-driving or multiple bookings. If you’re interested in historic ruins, colorful villages, and scenic countryside, you’ll find plenty to love. The guided commentary adds depth to each location, making it suitable for travelers who appreciate context and storytelling.

However, if your travel style favors slow mornings or relaxed afternoons, this packed itinerary might feel a little rushed. It’s best suited for active travelers eager to maximize their day and willing to keep pace with the schedule.

This Provence Highlights Tour from Avignon offers a well-rounded day trip packed with stunning scenery, historical treasures, and authentic Provençal towns. The combination of natural wonders like Fontaine de Vaucluse, architectural marvels such as Pont du Gard, and charming villages like Gordes and Roussillon delivers a true taste of southern France.

The value lies in expert guidance, seamless transport, and priority entry to major sites, making it a practical choice for those who want to avoid planning and logistics. The small group size and enthusiastic guide make for a personalized, engaging experience that enriches your understanding of the region.

While it’s demanding in terms of time and movement, it’s a fantastic option for first-time visitors or travelers with a curiosity for history, nature, and local culture. This tour ensures you’ll leave Provence with a collection of vivid memories and enough photos to keep the magic alive long after you return home.

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour begins and ends at the designated meeting point, the Tourism Office in Avignon.

How long is the total duration?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, with specific start times varying by availability.

What transportation is used?
Travel is via an air-conditioned minivan, offering a comfortable way to cover the distances between different sites.

Are entry fees included?
Yes, entry to the Pont du Gard is included, which adds convenience and value.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While it’s a fantastic way to see Provence, the full schedule and long hours in the vehicle might be best suited for older children or active travelers.

Can I join this tour if I’m staying outside Avignon?
The tour starts at the Tourism Office in Avignon, so travelers need to arrange their own transportation to the meeting point.

Are there any physical demands?
Some sites involve walking on uneven surfaces or steep streets, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience.

This full-day journey through Provence promises a good balance of natural beauty, history, and local culture, making it perfect for travelers eager to get a comprehensive taste of this captivating region.