Book online - full day tour
Avignon, Palais des Papes, Provençal food market & L'Isle sur la Sorgue french brocante and all things antique on the canals of the river Sorgue
Tour summary
Just 30 kilometers from Avignon, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is a delightful riverside town, nicknamed the Comtadine Venice, it leaves a lasting impression when you visit as it's lively all year round. Renowned for its antiques, it is a paradise for bargain hunters and, thanks to its vibrant markets, also a haven for food lovers. This ancient town surrounded by a moat of flowing water, dates from the 12th century when fishermen built huts on stilts above what was then a marsh. By the 18th century, canals lined with 70 giant wheels powered silk factories & paper mills, you'll see them as you walk around the town. Today L’Isle is home to antiques villages housing over 300 dealers - a really great way to begin exploring the Vaucluse. Next Avignon - once centre of the Catholic world, left with an impressive legacy of ecclesiastical architecture, most notably World Heritage listed Palais des Papes that includes an array of impressive renaissance frescos. Avignon hosts the annual arts festival, the largest in France. In Avignon we visit the gardens of Rocher des Doms and the ancient cathedral church of Notre dame des Doms d'Avignon and of course the UNESCO world heritage Palais des Papes. From 1309 to 1377, it was the seat of the Catholic popes. It remained under papal rule until becoming part of France in 1791. We end the day with a leisurely walking tour to discover more of the secrets of this charming city.
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 tiny shops - it's a veritable hub for French brocante and antiques. Whilst here there is time for an early snack or light lunch before we drive onwards to Avignon.
Arriving in Avignon visit to the cathedral and the ancient city gardens that overlook the Rhône valley, the Vaucluse mountains & River Rhône. A visit and tour of the Palais des Papes to learn about this exceptional Palais built for the Pope's when they were in Avignon in the 14th century. To end the day time to explore some of the streets and discover more of the secrets of Avignon with a time for a little shopping at leisure. From Avignon return to your hotel or villa.
Tour schedule
The total duration of the tour is 8 hours, assuming pick-up in Aix-en-Provence, Marseille or Avignon. There is a scheduled break for lunch, price not included.
What's included
Pick-up & drop-off at your hotel in Aix-en-Provence, Marseille or Avignon. If your staying elsewhere we can coordinate a pick-up from your address. (there may be a supplement payable)
Travel & admissions to all the sites and destinations proposed including 'fast-track' entry to the palais des Papes. 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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