Avignon Palais des Papes and Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wine Tour
From medieval papal grandeur to legendary Rhône Valley wines, all in one unforgettable day.
This full-day tour takes you deep into the heart of Provence, combining the UNESCO-listed heritage of Avignon Palais des Papes with an authentic wine-tasting journey through the celebrated vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône region.
The day begins on foot through the cobblestone alleys of Avignon's old town, crossing the iconic Pont d'Avignon and stepping inside one of the largest and most significant Gothic palaces in Europe. The scale and history of the Palais des Papes offer a rare window into the 14th-century era when Avignon served as the seat of the Catholic Church.
After exploring the old town and sharing a convivial lunch at Les Halles, the famous covered market, the tour shifts south into wine country. The afternoon winds through Cairanne and Rasteau, two villages whose appellations are recognized among the finest in the southern Rhône Valley.
Rasteau's medieval perch offers sweeping views toward Mont Ventoux and the jagged Dentelles de Montmirail, while the cooperative cellar at Cairanne delivers an immersive sensory tasting experience. This tour is graded easy and suits travelers of varied fitness levels.
Tour Highlights
Guided visit of the Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Walk across the legendary Pont d'Avignon, one of France's most recognized medieval bridges.
Lunch break at Les Halles, Avignon's vibrant covered market, surrounded by local Provençal produce.
Guided wine tasting at the Cairanne cooperative cellar, exploring the terroir-driven character of Côtes du Rhône wines.
Visit to the medieval village of Rasteau with panoramic views over Mont Ventoux and the Dentelles de Montmirail.
Discovery of Rasteau's distinctive and acclaimed sweet wine, a celebrated appellation within the Rhône Valley.
Scenic drive through the Côtes du Rhône landscape, passing vineyards, stone villages, and open garrigue terrain.
Itinerary
The tour begins with a guided walk through the historic lanes of Avignon's old town. The group crosses the famous Pont d'Avignon, a medieval bridge that has defined the city's image for centuries.
A thorough visit of the Palais des Papes reveals the extraordinary scale of this Gothic palace, which served as the residence of the Catholic papacy during the 14th century. Its chapels, grand halls, and towers provide a compelling portrait of medieval power.
The group heads to Les Halles, Avignon's celebrated indoor market, for a relaxed lunch break. The market offers a genuine taste of regional Provençal flavors and local artisan products.
The afternoon begins in Cairanne, a Côtes du Rhône village known for its expressive red and white wines. A sensory tasting session at the cooperative cellar guides visitors through the distinctive character of the appellation.
The tour continues to Rasteau, a medieval hilltop village with commanding views of Mont Ventoux and the Dentelles de Montmirail. Here, guests discover the village's celebrated sweet wine, a unique and richly layered appellation of the southern Rhône.
What's Included and Excluded
Included
- Guided walking tour of Avignon's old town
- Visit to the Palais des Papes
- Pont d'Avignon crossing
- Lunch break at Les Halles covered market
- Guided wine tasting at Cairanne cooperative cellar
- Visit to Rasteau village and sweet wine discovery
- Transport between sites
Not Included
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities for the guide
- Alcoholic beverages beyond the tasting
- Any additional purchases at the market or cellars
Important Information
Ready to Explore Avignon and the Rhône Vineyards?
Secure your place on this full-day journey through Provence's most iconic landmarks and wine appellations. Availability is limited for small groups.
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