Avignon & Luberon Experience

The Avignon & Luberon Experience offers travelers a chance to enjoy the rich history and stunning landscapes of southern France. This captivating full-day tour takes visitors through UNESCO World Heritage sites, charming villages, and breathtaking viewpoints, all while providing a personalized experience with a knowledgeable local guide. From the iconic Popes’ Palace in Avignon to the unique architecture and wine tasting in the Luberon region, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking to discover the essence of Provence, the Avignon & Luberon Experience may just be the perfect adventure to embark on.

Good To Know

• This full-day tour explores the UNESCO World Heritage site of Avignon, including the Popes’ Palace, city walls, and historic town center.
• The tour also takes visitors to charming villages in the Luberon region, such as Roussillon, Lacoste, and Gordes, known for their natural beauty and cultural heritage.
• The tour includes a local guide, air-conditioned transportation, and a wine tasting, providing a comprehensive and enriching experience.
• Highlights include the opportunity to climb the Rochers des Doms, view the ruins of the Marquis de Sade’s castle, and explore the region’s rich history and architecture.
• The tour is suitable for a maximum of 8 travelers and is not wheelchair accessible, with comfortable walking shoes recommended.

Tour Overview

The Avignon & Luberon Experience is a full-day tour that allows visitors to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Avignon and the picturesque villages of the Luberon region.

Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11 reviewers, it’s recommended by 91% of travelers.

The tour starts at 9:00 AM in Avignon and ends at the Avignon Tourist Office.

Participants will visit the Popes’ Palace, walk along the city walls, and discover the charming town center.

They’ll also explore the colorful village of Roussillon, the hilltop town of Gordes, and other Luberon highlights.

The tour includes a local guide, transportation, and a wine tasting, making it a comprehensive and enjoyable experience.

Itinerary Highlights

Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Avignon, visitors enjoy the city’s rich history and architecture.

They’ll visit the Popes’ Palace, the largest gothic-style palace, and stroll along the fortified city walls and Rochers des Doms for panoramic vistas.

Discover the lively Place de l’Horloge, the Town Hall, and the historic Theatre.

The tour then ventures to the colorful village of Roussillon and the Roman-era Pont Julien bridge.

Driving through Lacoste, guests view the ruins of the Marquis de Sade’s castle.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes a local guide, transportation by air-conditioned minivan, and an entrance ticket to the Popes’ Palace.

Travelers will also receive a glass of Côtes du Rhône wine. However, the tour doesn’t include food, drinks (unless specified), lunch, or hotel pick-up/drop-off.

The maximum group size is 8 travelers, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible or recommended for pregnant travelers. Comfortable walking shoes are advised.

Children under 4 years old aren’t allowed. The tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide.

Participant Information

Maximum group size for this tour is 8 travelers.

Due to the nature of the locations visited, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers. Comfortable walking shoes are suggested, as there will be periods of exploration on foot.

Children under the age of 4 aren’t permitted on the tour.

While the guide leading the experience may be multilingual, the tour is primarily conducted in the guide’s native language.

Participants can expect a small group setting that allows for personalized attention and flexibility during the day’s activities.

Traveler Feedback

The reviews for this Avignon & Luberon tour have been overwhelmingly positive, with travelers highlighting the knowledgeable and engaging guides who brought the history and culture of the region to life.

Positive feedback includes:

• Unique opportunities to explore charming villages like Roussillon and Gordes, providing a genuine taste of Provençal life.
• The small group size, allowing for more personalized attention and opportunities for questions and discussions.
• The well-paced itinerary, striking a balance between guided activities and free time for independent exploration.

While suggestions for improvement include adjusting the tour length and enhancing the wine tasting experience, overall, travelers appreciated the chance to enjoy the captivating landscapes and rich heritage of Avignon and the Luberon region.

Exploring Avignon

Avignon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, serves as the starting point for the tour’s exploration.

Visitors will venture into the Popes’ Palace, the largest gothic-style palace built between 1309-1377. They’ll walk along the fortified city walls and climb to the Rochers des Doms, taking in panoramic views of the region.

The lively Place de l’Horloge, home to the Town Hall and Theatre, provides a glimpse into Avignon’s vibrant city center.

With an expert local guide leading the way, travelers will uncover the historic charm and architectural wonders that make Avignon a captivating destination.

Discovering Luberon Villages

After exploring the historic city of Avignon, the tour transports visitors to the captivating Luberon region, known for its charming villages nestled among rolling hills.

The first stop is the picturesque Roussillon, famous for its vibrant ochre-colored houses.

Next, the tour ventures to Lacoste, where visitors can discover the ruins of the Marquis de Sade’s castle.

The final village, Gordes, is a true gem, boasting stunning dry-stone architecture and panoramic views.

Throughout the day, travelers are immersed in the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of this enchanting corner of Provence.

• Roussillon: Vibrant ochre-colored houses
• Lacoste: Marquis de Sade’s castle ruins
• Gordes: Dry-stone architecture and panoramic views

Tour Logistics

Travelers meet their knowledgeable guide at 4 Rue de la République in Avignon, ready to embark on the day’s adventure.

They’ll explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Avignon, including the Popes’ Palace and the fortified city walls.

After visiting Roussillon and Gordes, the tour wraps up at the Avignon Tourist Office.

The full-day tour includes transportation via air-conditioned minivan, admission to the Popes’ Palace, and a glass of Côtes du Rhône wine.

Group size is limited to 8 travelers, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible nor recommended for pregnant individuals.

Comfortable walking shoes are advised, as children under 4 aren’t allowed on the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers and doesn’t allow children under 4 years old. Otherwise, there are no age restrictions for participants, though the guide may operate the tour in multiple languages.

Can I Book This Tour on Short Notice?

Yes, you can likely book this tour on short notice. The tour has a maximum group size of 8 travelers, so there’s flexibility to accommodate bookings closer to the tour date subject to availability.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour operator allows customers to cancel up to 24 hours before the tour start time for a full refund. There’s a flexible cancellation policy to accommodate last-minute schedule changes.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour information doesn’t mention an option to extend the duration. However, travelers can contact the tour provider to inquire about customizing the tour length if they’d like to spend more time exploring the area.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

While the standard itinerary is fixed, the tour operator may allow some flexibility to customize the experience to suit your interests. It’s best to discuss any special requests with them prior to booking to see what options are available.

The Sum Up

The Avignon & Luberon Experience offers travelers a captivating journey through the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes. With guided visits to UNESCO sites, charming villages, and a wine tasting, this small-group tour provides a personalized and immersive experience. Travelers can discover the iconic Popes’ Palace, explore Roussillon and Gordes, and enjoy breathtaking views, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to explore the heart of Provence.