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Avignon & L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue - The Palace of the Popes, Provençal Markets & France's Antique Capital 

Discover two of Provence's most iconic destinations on a private full-day journey combining history, culture, gastronomy, and timeless French elegance.

Explore the magnificent Palais des Papes in Avignon, wander through the vibrant Provençal food market, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the City of the Popes. Then continue to the enchanting canals of L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, renowned for its picturesque waterways, celebrated antique dealers, brocantes, artisan boutiques, and relaxed Provençal atmosphere.

A beautifully curated experience blending medieval heritage, authentic local flavours, exceptional shopping, and the charm of one of France's most beautiful riverside towns.

Tour summary

Discover two of Provence's most captivating destinations on a private journey combining medieval history, vibrant markets, picturesque waterways, and the timeless charm of Provençal life. Your day begins in L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, one of the region's most enchanting riverside towns. Often referred to as the Venice of Provence, this delightful town is criss-crossed by the crystal-clear waters of the River Sorgue, creating a peaceful setting of canals, flower-filled bridges, and tree-lined quays.

Renowned throughout France as the country's capital of antiques and brocantes, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is home to more than 300 antique dealers, galleries, and specialist shops, making it a paradise for collectors and lovers of beautiful objects. The town's lively Provençal markets are equally celebrated, offering an irresistible selection of regional produce, artisan delicacies, lavender, cheeses, olives, and local specialities.

As you stroll through the historic centre, discover the town's fascinating past. Originally established in the 12th century on marshland, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue later flourished as an important centre for silk and paper production. Today, many of the enormous water wheels that once powered its mills remain, adding to the town's unmistakable character.

Continue to the magnificent city of Avignon, the historic capital of the Vaucluse and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During a guided walking tour, explore the elegant medieval streets and discover the remarkable legacy of the Popes, who made Avignon the centre of the Christian world during the 14th century. Visit the magnificent Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in Europe, before enjoying the panoramic views from the beautiful Rocher des Doms gardens. Admire the historic Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms and wander along the charming Rue des Teinturiers, one of Avignon's most atmospheric streets, where ancient water wheels, cafés, and centuries-old buildings evoke the city's rich past.

Combining history, culture, exceptional shopping, vibrant markets, and the relaxed elegance of Provençal living, this carefully curated experience offers a wonderful introduction to two of the region's most treasured destinations.

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Tour itinerary 

We will arrive to collect you from your hotel, chambre d'hôte, villa or apartment.

We leave by car first to L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue to explore the numerous shops & markets - a veritable hub for French brocante and antiques. Whilst here there is time for an early snack or light lunch before we drive on to Avignon. 

Arriving in Avignon visit to the cathedral and the ancient city gardens that overlook the Rhône valley, the Vaucluse & Luberon mountains & the River Rhône. Time to explore the historic centre and wander the tiny narrow streets and discover the secrets of Avignon with time for a little shopping at leisure and includes a short visit to the Palais des Papes.

Tour schedule

The total duration of the tour is 8 hours, there is a scheduled break for lunch, price not included.

What's included

Pick-up from your hotel or villa in Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, Arles, St Rémy de Provence, Lourmarin & Gordes.


Travel & admissions to all the sites and destinations proposed. Dedicated guide/driver & return to your hotel address. Air-conditioned SUV vehicle with phone chargers and bottled water throughout the day. Refreshments, snacks & lunch not included.

Language: English or French


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