Marseille is the easiest base in Provence for the grand classics of the Rhône valley, and this day trip strings three of them together. The first is Les Baux-de-Provence, a village perched on a limestone spur among the Alpilles hills, crowned by the ruins of a medieval fortress and so distinctive that bauxite, the aluminium ore, takes its name from the place. The second is the Pont du Gard, the three-tiered Roman aqueduct bridge across the Gardon river, built in the first century as part of a channel that carried water to Nîmes and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The third is Avignon, the walled city on the Rhône where the popes lived in the 14th century and built the vast Palais des Papes, with the broken arches of the Pont d’Avignon, the Pont Saint-Bénézet of the nursery song, beside the river. According to the product page the day also includes a wine stop at Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the appellation named for the popes’ summer residence. Rated 4.6 from 134 reviews and priced per person, it is one of the most popular ways to see this part of Provence without a car. The detail of the stops, timings and inclusions varies, so read the product page.
How it works
The tour departs from Marseille and runs as a full day, so expect an early start and a return in the evening. Transport is by vehicle with a guide or driver-guide, and the stops follow the sequence set out on the product page. Entry fees for sites such as the Palais des Papes or the Pont du Gard visitor centre may or may not be included, so check what the price covers. Wear comfortable shoes, because Les Baux is steep and cobbled and Avignon is a walking town.
What to expect
At Les Baux you explore the village and, if time allows, the castle ruins with their views across the Alpilles. At the Pont du Gard you walk to the aqueduct and photograph the arches from the riverbank. In Avignon you see the ramparts, the old streets and the exterior or interior of the papal palace, depending on the timing and the ticket. Wine tasting at Châteauneuf-du-Pape rounds off the day, and the tour is designed for passengers rather than drivers.
Making the most of it
This is a long day, so go on a day with no other fixed plans. Summer is hot and busy, with the best light in spring and early autumn, and in winter some sites keep shorter hours. If you would rather concentrate on the coast, choose the Cassis and Aix day trip instead. Pack water, sun protection and a light jacket for the evening return.
What to expect
The experience
A full-day guided trip from Marseille to Les Baux-de-Provence, the Pont du Gard and Avignon, with a wine stop at Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
Best time
Spring or early autumn for pleasant temperatures and good light; summer is hot and busy.
How long
A full day, with an early start and an evening return.
Tips
Wear comfortable shoes, check which entry fees are included and carry water and sun protection.
Quick picks
- Best for
- History lovers and wine fans who want Roman monuments, a papal city and a hilltop village in one day without driving.
- Families
- Teenagers who enjoy history will like it; the long day is tiring for very young children.
- Couples
- Wine, hilltop views and a medieval city make a classic Provence day for two.
- Pair with
- A quiet evening at the Vieux-Port or a lighter day in Cassis.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
What does the Provence day trip include?+
Les Baux-de-Provence, the Pont du Gard and Avignon, plus a wine stop at Châteauneuf-du-Pape, according to the product page. Check what the price covers.
How long is the day?+
It is a full day trip from Marseille, with an early departure and an evening return. Check the product page for times.
What is the Pont du Gard?+
A three-tiered Roman aqueduct bridge over the Gardon river, built in the first century and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Why is Avignon famous?+
It was the seat of the popes in the 14th century, and its Palais des Papes and ramparts still dominate the city. The Pont Saint-Bénézet is the bridge of the nursery song.
Can I do this trip independently?+
Avignon is easy by train, but Les Baux and the Pont du Gard are harder without a car, which is why many visitors choose a guided day.
