Full-Day Provence Day Trip from Marseille or Aix

On this full-day Provence excursion, allow yourself to be swept away by the beauty and charm of the Luberon region. In the company of a local expert and escorted by a private driver, you will spend the day discovering why so many people have been inspired by the scenic views and hilltop villages for which Provence is known. From photogenic hilltop towns to sweeping countryside panoramas to shaded cobblestone town squares, this day-long introduction to Provence will provide you with a small window into the region's endless charm. 

Your Provence introduction begins with a convenient pick-up at your accommodation in Marseille or Aix-en-Provence. As you leave behind the bustle of the city, you will quickly begin to notice the telltale symbols of Provence: dry stone farmhouses with cypress-lined alleyways, lush olive groves, and winding country roads. 

Your expert guide will begin introducing you to the region’s history as you make your way to Gordes, a particularly impressive place to start your Provence experience. A first stop outside of town will give you the perfect photo opportunity to capture the village’s unique hilltop location. You will then head into the center, perhaps stopping for a quick coffee on a shaded terrace, a quiet moment to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings. 

Leaving Gordes in the rearview mirror, you will make your way toward the village of Roussillon. The one village in Provence that could not possibly be confused with the rest, has been made distinctive by the varying shades of ochre that color the building façades. Thanks to the ochre deposits in the surrounding ridges, Roussillon rose to prominence as a mining town.

After a stop for lunch,  you will continue along the charming Provençal roads for a brief stop off at the Pont Julien, a Roman stone arch bridge dating from 3 BC. If the season is right, you will have a chance to take in the singular beauty of the Proveçal lavender fields. In bloom for a short period between June and July, lavender is an important export for the region. Lucky is the visitor who catches a glimpse of the fields in full bloom. 

Onwards towards the next hilltop village, beloved by locals and foreigners alike, Bonnieux is a picture-perfect representation of the region. Take a moment to enjoy the sweeping views of the Luberon and the contrasting patinas of the old stone houses. From Bonnieux, you will begin your descent into the valley and the final stop of your day: the market town of Lourmarin, whose shops, cafés, and cobblestone streets epitomize the style of Provence. Lourmarin is the perfect place to find a small souvenir or stop for a cone of lavender ice cream, a final indulgence for the day. 

Following this last stop, your guide and driver will accompany you back to your accommodation in Marseille or Aix-en-Provence. You will finish your time together with a newfound knowledge of the region and undoubtedly a lingering desire to return and discover more.  

 

What is a private tour?
Our private tours are limited exclusively to travelers in your party. Private tours give you more flexibility with scheduling (how long you’d like to spend at each stop) and more personalized time with your guide.

Will we see lavender on this tour?
The Provence lavender fields are typically in bloom from the beginning of June to the end of July. In recent years, they have often been cut early due to excessive heat and drought. When in bloom, this tour will take a detour to visit some scenic and photogenic lavender fields. Lavender products are available in many shops in the villages along the way. 

Will this tour stop for lunch?
This full-day tour will stop for lunch; however, the cost is not included in the tour price. 

The standard vehicle for this tour can accommodate 6 passengers in addition to your expert.

Yes, absolutely. We can adjust the content to be more appropriate for younger learners.

Provence is characterized by winding cobblestone streets, which are often steep or punctuated by stairs. This tour would not be well-suited for wheelchair users, but can be adapted for those with lower mobility. Please contact us if you are concerned about mobility; we will gladly advise.