Luberon: Day Trips and Tours from Avignon

A Luberon day trip from Avignon is one of the best things to do during your stay in the southeastern French city. The region is famous for its picturesque villages, towering mountains and beautiful flowers.

Explore some of the most beautiful places in France, including traditional villages and lavender fields, on a Luberon excursion. Visit some of the local vineyards, as this captivating region of France is also a wine-growing region.

How to get to Luberon from Avignon?

Luberon is just under 70 kilometers away from Avignon. The easiest way to get there is by car. Public transport options are limited and often involve a taxi ride or walk at the end. There are also numerous day trips to Luberon available, which include private transport.

From Avignon to Luberon by car

It takes just over an hour to travel from Avignon to Luberon by car on the D900. The journey is relatively straightforward, and you can enjoy some pleasant views along the way.

From Avignon to Luberon by bus

It can be a challenge to get from Avignon to Luberon by public transport. There are no direct connections unfortunately.

One option is to take Bus 14 from Avignon to Beaumettes which is located north of Luberon. From here you can either take a taxi or keep an eye out for regional buses that might run to Mallemort during the summer which is located only a short drive from Luberon.

Guided tour to Luberon from Avignon

On a guided Luberon excursion, you will travel in an air-conditioned minivan with a professional driver and guide. This is a great option if you want to sit back and relax on the journey.

What is the typical itinerary of a day tour to Luberon from Avignon?

Most Luberon day trips meet in front of the Avignon tourist office, although some companies offer hotel pickup. Most tours are half-day tours lasting four to five hours, or there are full-day excursions that offer an additional activity.

You will travel to Luberon in a minivan or coach and head to the blooming lavender fields. There, you will have an opportunity to explore, take photos and purchase some handmade lavender goods or try a scoop of lavender ice cream.

You may also visit Senanque Abbey on your Luberon day trip. You will explore the 12th-century Cistercian Abbey and learn about the monks who lived there.

The next stop is usually the village of Rousillon, where you can admire the red ochre cliffs. You will then head to the picturesque village of Gordes, which is one of the most beautiful villages in France.

Gordes is a medieval hilltop village that sits on the side of the Vaucluse mountains, with narrow streets and traditional stone houses. The village itself is certainly a sight to see, and it offers sweeping views of the Luberon valley below.

On a full-day tour, you may then head to two wineries in the Châteauneuf du Pape commune for a tasting session. Finally, you'll return to Avignon, where your Luberon day tour will end.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Luberon?

There are many different types of day trips to Luberon available from Avignon, which vary in terms of duration and activities.

Half-day Luberon from Avignon

On a half-day tour of Luberon, you will see the highlights of the region, including the lavender fields and historic villages. You will also enjoy scenic views of Provence, as you travel through the countryside in a private minivan. This is a great option if you want to enjoy a relaxed day out.

Full-day tour to Luberon plus Chateauneuf de Pape from Avignon

A full-day Luberon tour from Avignon will take you to the Châteauneuf du Pape wine region for two wine tasting sessions. You will marvel at the area's vineyards and learn about the wine-making process.

You will also have more time to explore the village of Gordes and the village of Roussillon, and enjoy sweeping views of the Luberon valley.

Private day trip to Luberon villages and lavender fields from Avignon

You'll enjoy access to a private tour guide on a Luberon villages tour, who will share insights about the area's history and culture.

This tour also takes you to see the lavender fields in bloom and the picturesque villages of Gordes and Rousillon.

Luberon villages discovery tour from Avignon

Spend more time getting to know the pretty villages of the Luberon region on this tour. You will travel through Ménerbes, Lacoste, Gordes and Rousillon to get a feel for life in Provence.

If you take this tour during springtime, you will also be able to visit blooming poppy fields as part of your Luberon jaunt.

How much does a tour to Luberon from Avignon cost?

You can expect to pay anywhere between €55 and €850 for your Luberon journey. The prices vary according to group size, inclusions and the number of stops and activities. It's also worth noting that tour prices do not include gratuities.

What will you see and do in Luberon?

Lavender Fields

One of the most popular activities in Luberon is visiting the lavender fields. The best time to see the lavender in bloom is from late June to early August.

You will have the opportunity to explore the fields, take photos and purchase some handmade lavender goods, such as soaps and essential oils.

Roussillon

Another stop on your Luberon jaunt is the village of Roussillon. In this quintessential Provencal village, you'll be able to see the red cliffs and explore the narrow streets lined with traditional stone houses.

Gordes

Gordes is a medieval village that feels straight out of a fairytale. The town is built into the side of the Vaucluse mountains, so you'll enjoy sweeping views of the Luberon valley below.

The village is very well preserved and in fact, all electricity and telephone lines have been installed underground so as not to spoil the view.

Châteauneuf du Pape

On a full-day Luberon tour, you may get the chance to visit the Châteauneuf du Pape wine region. This is one of the most prestigious wine regions in France, and you'll have the opportunity to sample some of the area's world-renowned wines.

Even if you’re not a wine connoisseur, you’ll love learning about the wine-making process and why this area is special.

Senanque Abbey

The 12th-century Cistercian Abbey of Sénanque is one of the most photographed spots in all of Provence. The historic Abbey is set against a backdrop of lavender fields, so it’s a great photo opportunity.

When is the best time to visit Luberon?

If you want to see the lavender fields in full bloom, then the best time to visit Luberon is from late June to early August. The fields are usually at their very best from early to mid-July. However, this depends on the altitude of the fields.

If you would prefer to explore the villages of Luberon without the crowds, consider visiting in spring or fall. The lavender is not in bloom, but the weather is pleasant, and the villages are much quieter.

Taking a Luberon day trip during spring means that you may have the bonus of seeing the poppy fields in bloom. During the spring, the mimosa trees are also flourishing, so you'll be treated to their bright colors and sweet fragrance.

Meanwhile, a Luberon jaunt in the fall means that you’ll get to appreciate the beauty of the area as the trees, fields and vines turn orange.

Are there any tours to Luberon from other cities in France?

Yes, there are other tours departing from several other cities in France:

• Day trips to Luberon from Aix-en-Provence
• Luberon day tours from Marseille

Travel tips

• If you want to see the lavender fields, book your tour for late June to early August. Some tourists arrive at the fields without checking when the lavender blooms and feel disappointed when they are greeted by green and not purple plants.
• If you're interested in wine tasting, make sure to book a full-day tour so that you have enough time for the activity. If you’re planning on driving yourself in a rental car, keep in mind you’ll need at least one designated driver to stay sober.
• Book your tour in advance, as day trips to Luberon tend to fill up quickly, especially when the lavender fields are in bloom. International tourists come from all around the world to enjoy the fields.
• Wear sunscreen and sunglasses, as it can get quite hot in Provence.
• Wear comfortable shoes for your Luberon journey, as many of the villages involve steep hills. Avoid heels or flip flops.
• Bring cash with you, as not all businesses in the region accept credit cards.
• Bring plenty of water and some snacks.
• Don't forget your camera. You're visiting one of the most scenic areas of France, and you'll want to capture the beautiful views.
• If you're going on a half-day tour of Luberon, leaving in the morning may make for more comfortable temperatures.
• Wear light, loose clothing when taking a Luberon day trip during the summer months.