Wine Tours and Tastings in Avignon

The South of France has made a name for itself as one of the best wine regions in the world, and this includes the area surrounding Avignon. With enchanting Roman villages surrounded by pristine vineyards, the scenery in this corner of France is almost as good as the wines produced there.

Wine tours and tastings in Avignon are easy to arrange, and perfectly showcase the rich flavors and fragrant notes of each rich red, and crisp white produced in Châteauneuf-du-Pape and its neighboring townlets.

Here's all you need to know about wine tours and tastings, one of the most captivating gastronomic experiences in Avignon.

What are the best wine tours and tastings in Avignon?

Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine tour in Avignon

You’ll begin this wine tour and tasting in Avignon by traveling out of the city, and into the endless vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Here, you’ll learn about the geology that makes the region so special from your professional sommelier guide. Then, you’ll head to a wine château, where you’ll participate in a private tasting of local tipples.

Moving on, you’ll journey to a family-owned wine estate and see how the tradition of winemaking has been passed down over generations. Stop to refuel with a Provencal lunch before discovering two more wine establishments, where you’ll engage in tasting sessions and explore their premises.

Small group Provence Cru wine tour from Avignon

The Roman village of Gigondas is the first stop on this Avignon wine tour. This charming destination is known for its sumptuous red wines, made from a combination of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre grapes. Sample the delicious beverages made here before moving on to Châteauneuf-du-Pape — the most famed wine area in this corner of France.

Discover the variety of soils that enable the region to produce a myriad of grapes, including Grenache, Cinsault, Counoise and Picardan. You’ll also pay a visit to the appellation of Vacqueyras for another tasting before returning to Avignon.

Are there any combos available with wine tours and tastings in Avignon?

Provence Pont du Gard plus wine tasting tour from Avignon

Those with limited time to spare should consider opting for a combination day trip to Pont Du Gard from Avignon with a wine tasting. You’ll travel to the UNESCO-listed Pont du Gard — a beautifully preserved aqueduct that was built in the 1st century by the Romans.

What makes the Pont du Gard so remarkable is its height as the tallest of all Roman aqueduct bridges, standing at almost 50 meters. You’ll also discover the Roman Theater of Orange, which was built under the reign of Emperor Augustus and could hold up to 10,000 spectators, before moving on to enjoy a wine tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine tasting plus Van Gogh tour from Avignon

Discover the area surrounding Avignon through the eyes of Vincent van Gogh on this art and wine tour. You’ll see the town of Arles, which you may recognize from famed works, such as “Le café de Nuit” and “Bedroom in Arles.”

You’ll explore the quaint town of Saint-Remy-de-Provence, as well as the Monastery of Saint Paul de Mausole, once used as a mental asylum where van Gogh voluntarily spent more than a year of his life.

Finally, visit two different wine venues in Châteauneuf-du-Pape where you can try several wines and pick up a bottle of your favorite before journeying back to Avignon.

Which places are visited?

Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Châteauneuf-du-Pape is situated in the Rhône Valley and is renowned for its red wines, blended from several variations of grapes. While the main grape in a Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine is Grenache, as many as 13 varieties can be present in one bottle produced in this region.

Popular blends include Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault, and the region is best known for its reds, although some white wines are produced here. The main flavors in a well-made Châteauneuf-du-Pape red wine are leather, raspberry and plum. Wine connoisseurs may also be able to identify gamey flavors, as well as herbs and strawberries.

Winemaking in Châteauneuf-du-Pape is thought to have been established by Pope Clement V in the 14th century.

How much do wine tours and tastings in Avignon cost?

Wine tours and tastings in Avignon vary in price, depending on several factors, including the destinations visited, and the number of tasting sessions.

Combination day trips from Avignon that include Pont du Gard cost €70 to €80 per adult, while children aged 5 to 11 cost €40 each and under 5s can join for free. You’ll be part of a small group of up to eight individuals.

Small group Provence Cru excursions with up to eight travelers cost €80 per adult, while children between the ages of 5 and 11 cost €40 each and under 5s join for free.

Vincent van Gogh tours from Avignon cost approximately €140 per adult and just over €110 per child aged 4 to 11. Children under 4 are not allowed on these tours.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine tastings cost between €160 and €170 per adult, and you’ll be part of a small group limited to eight guests.

What is included?

Wine tours and tastings in Avignon typically include several wine tastings in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and its surrounding region. While on some excursions, you’ll only visit one venue for a wine tasting, others will transport you to four different cellars and wineries where you can sample a broader range of tipples.

You’ll also benefit from the services of a professional tour guide, who will organize your day trip seamlessly and feed you fascinating tidbits of information as you hop between different sites.

Keep in mind that on combination excursions that include the Pont du Gard, the admission fee to the Roman Theater of Orange is not included.

Where does it start?

Wine tastings in Avignon begin at a range of easy-to-reach destinations across the city, including the Palais des Papes and the tourism office. You can find out the meeting point of each excursion before booking so that you can arrange any necessary transportation ahead of time.

How long does it last?

Typically, wine tours and tastings in Avignon last between 4, and 9 hours. Those with less time to spare can opt for an excursion that visits the Pont du Gard or a Provence Cru tour. If you wish to extend your adventure, choose a wine tour that explores the life and times of Vincent van Gogh.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Wine tours and tastings in Avignon are typically not wheelchair friendly. However, as all tour operators set different requirements, it is worth consulting the booking page of any excursions that catch your eye to see whether they are suitable for all members of your party.

When is the best time for a wine tour and tasting in Avignon?

The best time for a wine tour and tasting in Avignon is from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the vineyards are lush, the weather is pleasant, and the grape harvest can be witnessed in September. It's also the period when many local wine events take place. Visiting in the summer allows for warm, sunlit days, but it's also the peak tourist season.

Are children allowed?

Yes, children can generally join wine tours in Avignon, provided they are accompanied by an adult.  Keep in mind though that Van Gogh tours do not allow children under 4 and that the minimum drinking age in France is 18 years.

Travel tips

• Not all vineyards offer the same experiences. Look for those that cater to your interest, whether it's organic wines, historical cellars, or cutting-edge wine-making technology.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you might be walking through vineyards. Also, avoid wearing perfume or strong scents; they can interfere with your ability to smell the wines.
• Wine tasting on an empty stomach can hit you harder than you'd expect. Have a good meal before your tour.
• Drink water throughout the day, both to cleanse your palate and to stay hydrated.
• If you enjoy a particular wine, consider purchasing it. Some wines are vineyard exclusives and can't be found elsewhere.