Starting From Avignon: Half-Day in 3 Villages of Provence

Exploring the picturesque villages of Provence is a must-do for many visitors to the region. This half-day tour from Avignon promises an immersive experience, taking travelers to three charming destinations renowned for their unique charms. From the vibrant ochre cliffs of Roussillon to the medieval splendor of Gordes, and the serene Fontaine de Vaucluse, this carefully curated itinerary offers a chance to uncover the diverse cultural heritage of Provence. With an intimate group size and convenient inclusions, this tour provides a compelling way to discover the heart of this stunning corner of France.

Good To Know

• A half-day tour from Avignon’s Tourist Office exploring three iconic Provençal villages: Roussillon, Gordes, and Fontaine de Vaucluse.
• Limited to 8 participants for a personalized experience, with the tour offered in both English and Chinese.
• Highlights include the ochre-colored quarries of Roussillon, the medieval architecture of Gordes, and the natural beauty of Fontaine de Vaucluse.
• Priced at $81.13 per person, covering transportation and site admissions.
• The tour starts from Avignon’s centrally located Tourist Office, which provides maps, brochures, and knowledgeable staff.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tour

This half-day tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through three enchanting villages in the heart of Provence.

Starting from the Avignon Tourist Office, the 3-hour excursion is limited to a small group of 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

The tour is offered in English and Chinese, providing accessibility for various language preferences.

At a price from $81.13 per person, the tour covers transportation, fuel, and tolls, along with admission to the sites.

Guests can freely cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

Starting Point: Office De Tourisme D’avignon

The tour begins at the Office de Tourisme d’Avignon, a conveniently located starting point for this half-day excursion. This local tourism office provides maps, brochures, and knowledgeable staff to help orient visitors. It’s situated in the heart of Avignon, within walking distance of major landmarks like the Palais des Papes.

| Proximity | Accessibility | Amenities |

| — | — | — |

| Steps away from historic city center | Located on a main street with public transit nearby | Restrooms, maps, visitor information |

| Close to parking garages | Easy to find on Google Maps | Multilingual staff to assist with tour details |

| 5-10 minute walk from Avignon’s medieval walls | Designated meeting point for tour participants | Free brochures and recommendations |

Exploring Vibrant Roussillon

What makes Roussillon so vibrant and captivating? Its iconic ochre-colored quarries, ranging from deep reds to bright yellows, create a mesmerizing visual landscape.

Visitors can stroll through the winding streets, admiring the colorful houses and exploring the local shops and cafes.

The quarries themselves offer a unique hiking experience, allowing travelers to witness the natural beauty of the region up close.

Roussillon’s rich history and cultural heritage further enhance the allure of this Provençal gem, making it a must-visit destination on the half-day tour through the villages of Provence.

Discovering Gordes, a Perched Village

From the vibrant hues of Roussillon, the tour now moves on to the captivating village of Gordes, perched atop a rocky outcrop since the 10th century. Winding through the narrow streets, visitors can admire the stunning medieval architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The village exudes a timeless charm, with its stone houses, quaint cafes, and artisanal shops.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Location | Perched on a rocky base since the 10th century |

| Architecture | Stunning medieval buildings and structures |

| Views | Panoramic vistas of the Provence countryside |

| Atmosphere | Timeless charm with stone houses and quaint cafes |

| Activities | Exploring the narrow streets and visiting artisanal shops |

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Visiting Fontaine De Vaucluse

After exploring the charming village of Gordes, the tour now leads visitors to the captivating Fontaine de Vaucluse.

This natural wonder features a mysterious fountain emerging from under the mountain, producing the mighty Sorgue River. Visitors can wander along the river’s edge, admiring the towering limestone cliffs that surround the site.

They’ll discover the ruins of a 14th-century castle and learn about the site’s historical significance as a refuge for writers and philosophers.

With its serene ambiance and striking natural beauty, Fontaine de Vaucluse offers a peaceful respite during the half-day tour of Provence.

Inclusions and Important Information

The tour package includes the journey, fuel, and tolls if necessary, ensuring a seamless experience for participants.

However, there are some important rules to keep in mind. The meeting point is the Office de Tourisme d’Avignon, which can be located on Google Maps.

Pets, smoking, vaping, alcohol, drugs, bare feet, and food and drinks in the vehicle aren’t allowed. These restrictions aim to maintain a comfortable and safe environment for the group.

Flexibility is built into the booking, allowing participants to reserve their spot without upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Customer Reviews

Customers have provided a mix of feedback on this half-day tour of Provence’s villages.

While one reviewer from Puerto Rico gave it five stars, another from the United States rated it only one star, noting the guide didn’t arrive.

The tour has a 3 out of 5 rating based on the two reviews.

Customers should be aware that the tour group size is limited to 8 participants and is offered in English and Chinese.

The tour includes transportation, but specifics on inclusions like lunch and site entrance fees aren’t clearly stated.

Flexibility with booking and cancellation policies may appeal to some.

Booking and Flexibility

One of the appealing aspects of this tour is its flexible booking and cancellation policy.

Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment, allowing them to secure their place on the tour without any immediate financial commitment.

Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing a hassle-free option for those with last-minute changes in plans.

This flexible cancellation policy allows travelers to adapt their plans without hassle up to a day before the tour.

This flexibility caters to the needs of modern travelers, who may appreciate the ability to adjust their itinerary as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring a Small Cooler With Snacks?

The tour does not allow bringing food or drinks in the vehicle. However, guests are free to have a small snack or water bottle with them during the stops at the villages, as long as they dispose of any trash properly.

Is There an Option for Private Transportation?

The tour doesn’t offer private transportation, but you can inquire about arranging a private tour. This would likely cost more but would provide a more personalized experience with just your group.

Is There Wi-Fi Available in the Vehicle?

The tour description does not specify whether there is Wi-Fi available in the vehicle. As this is not mentioned, it’s likely that Wi-Fi is not provided during the half-day tour of the 3 Provence villages.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Participants should avoid wearing bare feet, as that’s not allowed. The emphasis is on practicality and comfort for a half-day exploration of Provence’s villages.

Can I Leave the Tour Group to Explore on My Own?

The tour allows limited independent exploration, but participants are generally expected to stay with the group. Wandering off on your own may result in missing key parts of the itinerary or getting left behind. It’s best to coordinate with the guide if you’d like more solo time.

The Sum Up

This half-day Provence tour offers a personalized experience to discover the region’s cultural gems. Departing from Avignon, it showcases the vibrant colors of Roussillon, the medieval charm of Gordes, and the serene beauty of Fontaine de Vaucluse. With inclusive transportation and site admissions, this English and Chinese-guided excursion is an ideal way for visitors to enjoy Provence’s rich heritage within a convenient half-day.

You can check if your dates are available here: