Avignon, Saint-Rémy, Les Baux & Pont du Gard Full Day

A full-day excursion exploring some of Provence’s most iconic sights, this tour offers a balanced mix of history, stunning scenery, and charming towns. It’s operated by A La Française Tourisme and takes you through Avignon’s medieval streets, the ancient Roman aqueduct Pont du Gard, and picturesque villages like Les Baux and Saint-Rémy. With a price of around $177 per person for nearly 10 hours of guided sightseeing, it’s a concentrated dose of Provençal charm.

What I really appreciate about this experience are two key features: First, the knowledgeable guides make all the difference. From the detailed commentary inside the Palais des Papes to the lively storytelling in Les Baux, guides like Sylvia and Arnold bring the region’s stories to life. Second, the variety of stops ensures you get a well-rounded taste of Provence — from its medieval history to Roman engineering marvels, topped with stunning vistas and local flavors.

However, a note of caution: the itinerary is tightly packed, and some travelers found certain stops less engaging. One reviewer mentioned that Saint-Rémy didn’t quite live up to expectations, and the van driving can be brisk—particularly if you’re prone to motion or prefer a more relaxed pace. Still, for those who want a rundown with minimal hassle, the positives tend to outweigh the negatives.

Key points / Takeaways

• Expert local guides like Sylvia and Arnold make history accessible and fun.
• Diverse stops—from medieval cities to Roman aqueducts—offer a full-brain experience of Provence.
• Quality included: Entry to both the Palais des Papes and Pont du Gard is covered, adding value.
• Small group size (limited to 8 people) ensures a more personalized experience.
• Tight schedule requires some flexibility and readiness for a full day of sightseeing.
• Wine tasting with a glass of Côtes du Rhône adds a relaxed, authentic touch to the tour.

Discovering Avignon: A Medieval Jewel

Jumping straight into the heart of Provence, Avignon’s Palais des Papes is a highlight that lives up to its reputation. As the largest Gothic palace in Europe, it’s a sprawling maze of galleries, chapels, and chambers that reveal the city’s significance in papal history. The guided tour inside helps you appreciate the scale and importance of this seat of power during the 14th century.

One reviewer mentioned how their guide, Arnold, made the history engaging, sharing stories that brought the palace’s walls to life. Walking along the fortified city walls gives a panoramic view of Avignon’s rooftops and the Rhône River beyond. Before heading into the palace, you’ll enjoy a glass of Côtes du Rhône wine—a small but memorable touch that sets the Provençal tone.

The walking tour of Avignon’s streets takes you to the Place de l’Horloge, the town hall with its clock tower, and the theater, all sprinkled with local cafes and shops. The guide shares secrets of the city’s architecture and urban layout, making the walk both educational and enjoyable.

Most travelers find that the inclusion of the Palais des Papes offers a meaningful glimpse into the city’s past, especially when paired with a leisurely stroll through the medieval streets. It’s a good way to start the day with a sense of scale and history.

Lunch Break and Afternoon in the Charmers: Saint-Rémy and Les Baux

After the morning tour, you’ll have about 1.5 hours for lunch on your own in Avignon. This flexible time allows you to sample local cuisine—perhaps a plate of Provençal olives, tapenade, or a light lunch before heading out again. Meeting your guide again at 2:00 pm, the tour shifts focus to small villages and stunning scenery.

First stop is Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, a town known for its charming streets and relaxed pace. Your guide will take you on a brief walk, highlighting its most charming features—think quaint squares, local markets, and perhaps a glimpse of the surroundings that inspired Van Gogh’s paintings. While one reviewer mentioned Saint-Rémy “was not worth the visit,” most find it a lovely pit stop to soak in Provençal village life.

The highlight of the afternoon is Les Baux-de-Provence, perched 245 meters above the valley. This hilltop village offers sweeping views, narrow pedestrian streets, and historic sites like the Santon Museum and St. Vincent Church. Visitors often marvel at how well-preserved the streets and buildings are, giving you a real sense of stepping back in time.

Your guide will share stories about the village’s history—think of it as wandering through a living postcard with impressive vistas around every corner. The hour of free time here allows for exploring at your own pace, meandering through shops, taking photos, or relaxing on a terrace with a local drink.

Roman Engineering Marvel at Pont du Gard

The tour’s final stop is the Pont du Gard, the crown jewel of Roman aqueducts. Dating back to the first century, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a breath-taking example of ancient engineering—still standing, still impressive. You’ll get about an hour here to walk along the aqueduct, take photos, and appreciate the scale of Roman ingenuity.

One reviewer pointed out that this site is “the best-preserved section of the Roman aqueduct that once supplied water to Nîmes,” emphasizing its historical value. It often feels like walking through a giant stone sculpture, with the arches towering above.

This stop wraps up with a relaxed hour, perfect for absorbing the history and snapping some memorable photos. The return journey is about 45 minutes, and the tour concludes back at the starting point in Avignon.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The entire experience is conducted via air-conditioned minivan, which makes the long day more comfortable. Because the group is limited to 8 participants, you’ll get a more intimate, flexible experience. The schedule is tight but well-organized, with specific times set for each stop.

The tour begins at A la Française Provence in Avignon and ends back there, making it convenient for travelers staying in town or nearby. The duration of 9.5 hours means you should be prepared for a full day, but the pacing is generally manageable given the small group setting.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Provence’s highlights without the hassle of planning individual visits. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts, Roman architecture fans, and those looking for authentic local experiences like wine tasting. If you appreciate guided storytelling and intimate groups, you’ll find this tour satisfying.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace, or if you’re traveling with very young children or have mobility challenges, the tight schedule and walking distances may be less suitable.

Price and Value

At about $177 per person, this tour packs a lot into a single day. Entrance fees for the Palais des Papes and Pont du Gard are included, which adds to the value. The small group size, guided storytelling, and the included wine tasting all contribute to a well-rounded experience for the price.

While some moments, like Saint-Rémy, might not resonate equally with all travelers, the overall package offers a good balance of history, scenery, and local flavor. The opportunity to visit multiple iconic sites in one day without worrying about logistics is a significant perk.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re eager to see a range of Provençal sights in a single day—covering medieval, Roman, and village charm—this tour is a solid choice. The guides’ expertise and the small-group format make it a more personal, engaging experience. You’ll love the stunning views from Les Baux, the historic grandeur of the Palais des Papes, and the engineering marvel of Pont du Gard.

It’s particularly good for travelers who want an efficient, well-organized day with some local flavor, including wine tasting. The price reflects the convenience of guided visits, entry fees, and transportation, making it a better value than many independent day trips if you prefer guided storytelling.

On the downside, the schedule is busy, and some may find the pace a bit fast, especially if they want more time to linger at each site. The focus on quick visits means you might not get the in-depth experience some might desire, but for a broad overview, it hits the mark.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 4 years old or those with mobility issues, as the day involves walking and some steep or uneven terrain.

How long is the total duration?
The full experience lasts about 9.5 hours, including travel time, guided visits, and free periods.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included, giving you flexibility to choose your own meal in Avignon before the afternoon sightseeing.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is provided only in English, with a small group size that enhances the experience.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
Yes, entry to the Palais des Papes and Pont du Gard is included in the price.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Yes, transportation is in an air-conditioned minivan, suitable for long day trips.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

To sum it up, this full-day Provençal adventure balances history, scenic beauty, and local charm, making it perfect for those who want a guided, hassle-free day of exploring. Whether you’re a first-timer or want a rundown, the combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning sites, and a small-group setting creates a memorable experience worth considering.