Provence is a region that offers more than just pretty landscapes and good food. It’s a place where you can trap your taste buds with truffle hunting, explore wildlife and landscapes on 4×4 safaris, or get your adrenaline pumping with rafting and hydrospeed. What makes Provence stand out for tours and experiences is its blend of authentic activities, spectacular settings, and the chance to connect with local traditions. We especially love the Truffle Hunting in Provence, which is a perfect way to learn about one of the region’s most treasured delicacies while walking through a Provençal truffle plantation. If you want a mix of scenery and culture, the Treasures of Castellane and Wonders of the Lake offers a charming look at the villages and lakeside views.
Whatever your style or energy level, Provence offers unforgettable experiences, and many of these tours can be tailored to your interests. Let’s explore the top 14 picks and what makes each one special.
Quick Overview
This list includes a wide range of tours—from culinary adventures like wine tastings (The Fiole Tour) to thrilling outdoor activities such as rafting on the Ubaye river (Rafting on the Ubaye). You’ll find guided safaris in Camargue, scenic vintage car rides, and craft workshops like creating leather bags or wood sculptures. Whether you’re after gastronomic delights, outdoor adrenaline, or cultural insights, Provence has something to offer. Now, let’s get into the details.
1. Truffle Hunting in Provence
At number one, the Truffle Hunting in Provence lets you venture into a Provençal truffle plantation for an authentic experience. For about $131 per person, over three hours, you’ll learn how black truffles are cultivated and see how trained dogs sniff out these underground treasures. The host is passionate about revealing the secrets of this secretive business, which is surprisingly accessible to visitors. You’ll get to sample truffle-infused snacks, Champagne, and local olive oil, making it a delightful sensory experience. The tour also includes visits to vineyards, olive groves, and beehives, giving a broad taste of Provence’s agricultural richness. Plus, you can purchase beautiful Provencal products to take home.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect if you want a hands-on, tasty immersion into Provence’s terroir and a chance to meet passionate truffle hunters.
2. Camargue 4×4 Safari 2 hours Saintes Maries de la Mer
Number two on our list is the Camargue 4×4 Safari, which offers a rugged look at the wild region of Camargue. For just over $58, this two-hour adventure departs from Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer with a small group capped at eight, allowing for a personalized experience. Your guide, a local expert, will lead you through landscapes that showcase local flora and fauna, including the famous Camargue horses. Reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and the chance to spot numerous bird species, with some visitors adding up to nine new species to their list. The drive is comfortable, and the scenery is striking—perfect for nature lovers and curious explorers alike.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those who want an intimate, wildlife-focused tour with expert guidance in a stunning natural setting.
3. Rafting on the Ubaye – Barcelonette
Number three is the Rafting on the Ubaye, ideal for adventure seekers. Starting at $74.77, this 2.5-hour trip offers a chance to navigate different routes, from sporty rapids to calmer stretches suitable for families. The experience is accessible to anyone who can swim, and your guide will teach you the basic paddling commands—left, right, stop, forward, back—before heading out. What’s special here is the variety of routes, making it flexible for different skill levels and ages. The reviews praise the instructors’ enthusiasm and safety. It’s a fantastic way to combine outdoor fun with the scenic beauty of Provence’s mountain rivers.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers eager to try rafting with expert guidance and a flexible experience.
4. Whitewater swimming (Hydrospeed) on the Durance
Ranking fourth, the Hydrospeed experience offers a more immersive whitewater adventure for around $62. This activity involves body contact with water and floats while navigating the Durance River, widely regarded as an excellent spot for beginners. Your instructors will teach techniques that let you discover unique sensations of skiing and well-being on the water. The route from the famous Rabioux wave to Embrun is considered ideal for first-timers. Expect to get wet and exhilarated, making this a memorable aquatic adventure.
Bottom line: Best suited for thrill-seekers ready to try whitewater swimming with professional support in a safe environment.
5. Marseille: Underwater Scooter Adventure
Number five is the Underwater Scooter Adventure in Marseille, offering a rare chance to explore the Calanques on an electric underwater scooter. For $116, you’ll enjoy about three hours of exploration, starting with a speedboat transfer to the Frioul archipelago. Wetsuits are provided, allowing for year-round outings. This intimate experience includes snorkeling and marine life viewing, with limited departures ensuring a quiet, personalized experience. The scooters are silent, giving you a close-up view of Mediterranean marine life without the noise of larger boats.
Bottom line: Ideal if you’re after a unique, off-the-beaten-path marine adventure that combines ease and discovery.
6. Treasures of Castellane and Wonders of the Lake
Number six, Treasures of Castellane and Wonders of the Lake, offers a day exploring this picturesque village and the nearby Lac de Castillon. Guided by experienced instructors, you’ll enjoy scenic routes and panoramic views that reveal the region’s natural beauty. The tour is highly praised for its relaxing pace and convivial atmosphere, making it great for travelers who want a laid-back day with a local touch. An ideal choice for those interested in culture, landscapes, and leisurely discovery.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers wanting a gentle, scenic day out with authentic insights into Provence’s rural charm.
7. The Fiole Tour: Visit & Wine Tasting
Number seven, The Fiole Tour, combines wine tasting with a visit to Maison Brotte for just $18. Over 1.5 hours, you’ll sample three vintages from La Fiole range, learning about the wines’ history and production. The guided experience is led by knowledgeable staff, making it ideal for those curious about Provençal wines. The price offers excellent value, and the tasting offers a chance to savor local flavors in a relaxed setting.
Bottom line: Perfect for wine lovers looking for an affordable, informative tasting experience.
8. Wine Tasting Tour – Le Pradet
Ranking eighth is the Wine Tasting Tour in Le Pradet, where you can visit an organic and biodynamic estate. For just $23, this one-hour tour includes tasting three wines and learning about organic viticulture. The estate emphasizes eco-friendly practices, making it an educational experience with a focus on sustainability. The small scale and passionate staff make it especially engaging for those interested in green wine production.
Bottom line: A quick, eco-conscious tasting experience suited for curious oenophiles.
9. Cap d’Antibes: Audi Efoil Premium Experience
Number nine features the Audi Efoil Premium Experience, where you can try efoil surfing in the beautiful Bay of Antibes. For approximately $281 per group, a certified instructor guides you through using the state-of-the-art Audi Aerofoil boards. The site, within a Natura 2000 protected zone, offers a scenic backdrop for your glide over the water. The experience is suitable for beginners and includes a full coaching session, making it a unique way to combine technology and water sports.
Bottom line: A high-end option for adventurous travelers eager to try efoiling with expert guidance.
10. Castellane Sunset Apéiro
Number ten, Castellane Sunset Apéiro, combines spectacular views with local flavors. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll enjoy the sunset over Lac de Castillon while sampling Provençal products. Guided by locals, this tour offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for winding down after a day of exploring. The sunset scenery enhances the experience, making it especially romantic or ideal for a quiet evening with friends.
Bottom line: A memorable way to enjoy Provence’s landscape and cuisine at sunset.
11. Côte d’Azur: Private tour in a convertible classic car
Number eleven is a Private convertible classic car tour in Côte d’Azur. For about 3 hours and a custom price, you’ll ride in a 1968 Triumph convertible with a driver-guide. This tailored experience is perfect for those seeking a timeless and personalized way to see the coast, with the driver adapting the route to your interests. Expect a relaxed pace and plenty of photo stops.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting a luxurious, bespoke way to experience Provence’s coastline.
12. Cotignac: Wood Sculpture Studio
Number twelve, Wood Sculpture Studio, invites you to practice mindfulness and creativity with Mathieu’s sculpture techniques. The three-hour session includes everything you need, and you’ll leave with your own piece of art. It’s a perfect activity for those interested in artisan crafts or seeking a relaxing, hands-on experience.
Bottom line: A unique, artistic workshop ideal for anyone wanting to try carving and leave with a memorable souvenir.
13. Create your own leather bag in Luberon area!
Number thirteen, Create your own leather bag, is a four-hour hands-on workshop. For $176, beginners will learn leather crafting techniques while making a beautiful bag to take home. The full guidance ensures a manageable process, even for those with no experience. It’s a great choice for craft lovers or anyone wanting a tangible memory of Provence.
Bottom line: Excellent value for an artisan experience that results in a stylish, handmade leather bag.
14. Create your own leather waist bag in Luberon area!
Finally, the Leather Waist Bag Workshop is similar but focused on making a practical accessory. For $211, you’ll spend four hours designing and creating your own waist bag with full guidance. Suitable for beginners, this workshop offers a memorable craft experience with a stylish final product.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a personalized, wearable souvenir made with expert help.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Provence
When selecting your perfect experience, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you’re after a culinary adventure, the Truffle Hunting or wine tastings might suit you best. For outdoor enthusiasts, rafting (Rafting on the Ubaye) or the Camargue safari offers adrenaline and wildlife encounters. Those seeking a relaxing cultural day could opt for the Treasures of Castellane, or enjoy a sunset apero (Castellane Sunset Apéiro). For more luxurious or personalized experiences, the convertible car tour or efoil adventure are excellent choices. Keep in mind booking early, especially for workshops or popular outdoor activities, and check availability during shoulder seasons for the best weather.
Final Thoughts
From culinary pursuits like truffle hunting and wine tasting to adventure activities such as rafting, hydrospeed, and efoiling, Provence offers a diverse set of experiences. For families or craft lovers, workshops such as leather bag making or wood sculpture provide memorable, hands-on fun. For those seeking a romantic or luxurious touch, vintage car rides and sunset tours add a special flair.
If you’re planning a trip to Provence, think about what excites you most—whether it’s sampling local flavors, exploring wild landscapes, or crafting your own souvenir. Many of these tours fill up quickly, so booking early is wise. With such variety, Provence truly caters to every type of traveler looking to deepen their connection with this remarkable region.