Provençal Picnic Tour: Markets, Villages and Open-Air Dining in the Heart of Provence
A full-day sensory journey through authentic Provençal markets, scenic landscapes, and a curated outdoor picnic.
This Provençal picnic tour invites you to experience the region's food culture and natural scenery through a carefully structured day that moves from a vibrant open market to a carefully chosen outdoor setting. The experience blends gastronomy, landscape, and local tradition in a format designed for curious travelers who prefer depth over speed.
The day begins at one of Provence's rotating weekly markets, where vendors gather to sell locally produced wines, cheeses, breads, seasonal fruits and vegetables, and prepared Provençal specialties. You will have the time to browse, taste, and select the items you want for your midday picnic, guided by a knowledgeable local host.
Once your provisions are chosen, the group travels to a carefully selected outdoor setting suited to the season and the day's itinerary. Table, chairs, and all necessary accessories are provided on-site, allowing you to focus entirely on the food, the conversation, and the surroundings.
The afternoon unfolds with visits to landmarks that reflect the character of the area near that day's market town. Depending on the route, this may include an ancient Roman monument, a perched hilltop village, a stretch of lavender fields, or a drive along the coast. An optional wine tasting at a local vineyard and a game of pétanque can be incorporated into the schedule.
Tour Highlights
Shop at an authentic Provençal open-air market and select fresh regional products for your picnic.
Enjoy a fully equipped outdoor picnic with local cheeses, breads, wines, and seasonal Provençal dishes.
Relax in a scenic outdoor setting chosen for its natural beauty and regional character.
Discover iconic landmarks including ancient monuments, hilltop villages, and lavender landscapes.
Optional wine tasting at a Provençal vineyard to deepen your understanding of the region's viticulture.
Try your hand at pétanque, the beloved Provençal pastime enjoyed in village squares across the region.
Benefit from hotel or port pickup, making the full-day experience seamless from start to finish.
Itinerary
Your guide meets you at your hotel or port and drives to the morning's designated market town. Market locations rotate through the week across towns including Cavaillon, Aix-en-Provence, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Arles, Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, Lourmarin, Pernes-les-Fontaines, Apt, and L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue.
Browse stalls offering wines, seasonal fruits and vegetables, artisan cheeses, freshly baked breads, pastries, and prepared Provençal specialties. Your guide provides context on the producers, the products, and how they reflect the culinary traditions of the area.
Following the market, the group travels a curated circuit of regional sites. Depending on the day and location, stops may include a Roman monument, a perched hilltop village, lavender fields, or a coastal drive. An optional vineyard visit with wine tasting can be scheduled here.
Arrive at the chosen picnic site, where table, chairs, and all necessary accessories have been arranged. You enjoy the market-sourced food in a setting that reflects the natural character of the Provençal countryside.
After lunch, guests are invited to play pétanque, the traditional boules game that has been central to social life in Provence for generations. Equipment is provided and all levels of experience are welcome.
The group returns to the original pickup point, completing an eight-hour day that has covered market culture, regional heritage, and open-air dining in one continuous circuit.
What Is Included
Included
- Private round-trip transportation from hotel or port
- Guided visit to a Provençal open-air market
- Picnic table, chairs, napkins, and all accessories
- Local guide throughout the full day
- Regional sightseeing circuit based on the day's route
- Pétanque equipment for an optional game
Not Included
- Market food and beverages purchased for the picnic
- Wine tasting fees at the vineyard (optional activity)
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities for the guide
Important Information
Reserve Your Spot on This Provençal Day Out
Places are limited to maintain the quality of the experience. Secure your booking in advance to choose the market day that fits your travel schedule.
Book Now
