From Avignon: Full Day Avignon & Luberon Experience

Exploring the enchanting region surrounding the historic city of Avignon is an opportunity not to be missed. This full-day tour immerses visitors in the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes that define the area. From the awe-inspiring Popes’ Palace to the charming hilltop towns of Luberon, this experience offers a comprehensive introduction to the area’s treasures. Oenophiles will delight in the chance to savor the renowned Côtes du Rhône wines, while those captivated by history will be enthralled by the ancient Pont Julien bridge. With a small-group setting, this tour provides an intimate and unforgettable glimpse into the essence of Avignon and its surroundings.

Key Points

• Explore the UNESCO-listed Popes’ Palace, a 14th-century Gothic-style palace, and enjoy panoramic views of Avignon from the Rochers des Doms.
• Discover the historic city center of Avignon, including the Place de l’Horloge, 18th-century Town Hall, and the Grosse Horloge clock tower.
• Savor the renowned Côtes du Rhône wines, a robust and fruit-forward red wine appellation with a winemaking history dating back to the 14th-century papal era.
• Visit the picturesque hilltop town of Roussillon, known for its vibrant ochre-colored buildings and panoramic viewpoints over the Luberon region.
• Explore the well-preserved 1st-century BC Roman bridge of Pont Julien and the charming hilltop village of Gordes, one of the most beloved destinations in the Luberon.

Overview of the Experience

This full-day Avignon and Luberon experience offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the historic Avignon city and the picturesque Luberon region.

The 9.5-hour small-group tour, limited to 8 participants, provides a well-rounded itinerary that includes visiting the UNESCO-listed Popes’ Palace, walking along the fortified city walls, and discovering the charming city center.

Guests will also enjoy a wine tasting and visit several highlights of the Luberon, like the colorful village of Roussillon, the ancient Pont Julien bridge, and the hilltop village of Gordes.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers flexibility and convenience for travelers exploring Avignon and its surrounding Provençal countryside.

Exploring Avignon’s Popes’ Palace

The Popes’ Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as the iconic centerpiece of Avignon’s historic city center. Visitors can explore the grandeur of this 14th-century Gothic-style palace, which once served as the papal residence during the Avignon Papacy.

The guided tour takes guests through several key areas:

1. The Grand Tinel, an immense dining hall
2. The Chapel of St. John, adorned with stunning frescoes
3. The papal apartments, showcasing the opulent living quarters
4. The vaulted ceilings and fortified ramparts, offering panoramic views of the city

Stepping into the Popes’ Palace is a journey back in time, allowing visitors to enjoy the rich history and architectural splendor that defined Avignon’s golden age.

Panoramic Views From Rochers Des Doms

Towering above Avignon’s historic center, the Rochers des Doms offer unparalleled panoramic vistas, enticing visitors to scale its lofty heights for breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding Rhône Valley.

From the top, the entire Old Town comes into view, with the majestic Popes’ Palace, the iconic Saint-Bénézet Bridge, and the meandering Rhône River as the star attractions. On a clear day, one can even spot the distant Luberon Mountains on the horizon.

The ascent to the Rochers des Doms is a rewarding experience, providing a bird’s-eye perspective that beautifully encapsulates Avignon’s rich history and picturesque setting. Visitors are rewarded with a panoramic tableau that lingers long in the memory.

Historic City Center Highlights

Beyond the impressive Popes’ Palace, Avignon’s historic city center beckons visitors to explore its charming cobblestone streets and captivating landmarks.

The Place de l’Horloge, the heart of the old town, showcases the stunning 18th-century Town Hall and the Théâtre Municipal, a grand neoclassical structure that once served as the city’s main theater.

Nearby, the Grosse Horloge, a striking clock tower, stands as a testament to Avignon’s rich architectural heritage, its ornate facade and ornamental details capturing the essence of the city’s enduring elegance.

The highlights of Avignon’s historic city center include:

1. The Place de l’Horloge
2. The 18th-century Town Hall
3. The Théâtre Municipal
4. The Grosse Horloge, a striking clock tower

Savoring Côtes Du Rhône Wine

A highlight of the full day Avignon & Luberon experience is the opportunity to savor a glass of Côtes du Rhône wine. This renowned French wine appellation, situated along the Rhône River, is renowned for producing robust, fruit-forward red wines that pair perfectly with the regional cuisine.

Côtes du Rhône Wine Highlights
Appellations	Northern & Southern Côtes du Rhône
Dominant Grape Varieties	Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre
Tasting Notes	Ripe red fruits, black pepper, medium-bodied
Food Pairings	Grilled meats, hearty stews, aged cheeses
Winemaking History	Dating back to the 14th century papal era in Avignon

The chance to savor this classic French wine is a delightful addition to the day’s exploration of Avignon and the captivating Luberon region.

Discovering Roussillon’s Vibrant Colors

After visiting the historic city of Avignon, the tour then ventures into the captivating Luberon region, where travelers are treated to the vibrant colors of the village of Roussillon.

This picturesque hilltop town is renowned for its striking ochre-colored buildings, which seem to glow in the warm Mediterranean sunlight. Visitors can explore the narrow streets, browse the local artisan shops, and take in the stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside.

The tour highlights four key aspects of Roussillon:

1. Ochre-colored buildings
2. Winding streets and charming shops
3. Panoramic viewpoints over the Luberon
4. Rich history and cultural heritage

This stop in Roussillon offers a truly immersive experience, allowing travelers to soak in the region’s unique natural beauty and artistic flair.

Crossing the Ancient Pont Julien

The tour then moves on to the remarkable Pont Julien, an ancient Roman bridge that has stood the test of time for nearly 2,000 years. Crossing this impressive structure, visitors can’t help but marvel at its enduring craftsmanship and engineering.

Built in the 1st century BC, the Pont Julien was an important passageway over the Calavon River, facilitating trade and transportation throughout the region. Today, it remains a testament to the ingenuity of Roman builders, with its three graceful arches and sturdy stone construction.

As the group crosses the bridge, they pause to appreciate the historical significance and architectural beauty of this well-preserved monument, gaining a deeper understanding of the Luberon region’s rich cultural heritage.

Experiencing the Hilltop Village of Gordes

Winding their way up the steep, narrow streets, the tour group finds themselves immersed in the picturesque hilltop village of Gordes, one of the most beloved destinations in the Luberon region. Perched atop a rocky outcrop, Gordes captivates visitors with its stunning vistas, honey-hued stone buildings, and quaint, winding alleyways that beg to be explored.

The charming main square, lined with cafés and boutiques offering local crafts and produce.

The impressive Château de Gordes, a 12th-century castle that dominates the skyline.

The serene Romanesque church, with its striking architecture and tranquil ambiance.

The breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, providing a fitting finale to their Luberon adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom breaks during the tour. The tour includes stops at various locations throughout the day, providing opportunities for participants to use restroom facilities as needed during the excursion.

Can Visitors Take Photos Inside the Popes’ Palace?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the Popes’ Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to preserve the historic interiors. Guides can provide further details on photography policies during the tour.

Is There an Option to Skip the Wine Tasting?

Yes, visitors can skip the wine tasting on this tour. The full-day Avignon & Luberon experience includes various activities, and the wine tasting is optional. Participants can choose to opt-out of the wine tasting if they prefer.

Will the Tour Guide Provide Historical Context for Each Location?

Yes, the tour guide will provide historical context about each location visited during the Avignon and Luberon experience. They’ll share details about the significance and history of sites like the Popes’ Palace, Pont Julien, and Marquis de Sade’s castle.

How Much Free Time Is Allotted in Each Village?

The tour provides free time in each village, allowing participants to explore at their own pace. In Gordes, guests have approximately 1 hour of free time to wander the charming hilltop town.

Recap

This full-day tour from Avignon provides a comprehensive introduction to the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes.

Visitors can explore the Popes’ Palace, taste renowned Côtes du Rhône wines, and discover picturesque hilltop towns like Roussillon and Gordes.

The small-group experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into the cultural and natural wonders that make Avignon and the Luberon such a captivating destination.