Your Private Avignon & Wine Country Day Trip Itinerary
Your journey begins with a scenic drive north through Provençal countryside before arriving in Avignon, a city long associated with power, scholarship, and artistry.
Avignon: The City of Popes
Once enclosed entirely within its medieval ramparts, Avignon welcomes you with leafy squares, honey-coloured stone façades, and hidden courtyards filled with cafés.
Your guide leads you through winding pedestrian streets rich with history and architectural detail.
Expect a leisurely pace with time to explore artisan shops, charming bookstores, and elegant patisseries.
Palais des Papes: A Monument of Medieval Power
Dominating the skyline, the Palais des Papes is one of Europe’s most imposing Gothic palaces.
Your guide unveils the stories of the nine Popes who once ruled Christendom from these chambers, a period that reshaped European politics and culture. At the same time, you enjoy a curated interior visit of the grand halls, frescoed chapels, and ceremonial rooms.
This palace is not merely a historical site; it is a testament to the grandeur and influence of the medieval Church.
Pont d’Avignon
Just a short walk away sits the Pont Saint-Bénézet, known worldwide as the Pont d’Avignon.
Your guide recounts the surprising tales surrounding this half-bridge, its collapse, and its transformation into one of France’s most celebrated landmarks.
Enjoy a photo stop with sweeping views of the Rhône and the old city walls.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape – Heart of Rhône Valley Wines
Leaving Avignon, your chauffeur takes you into the rolling vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a region where wine has been cultivated since the 14th century under the patronage of the Popes.
Private Wine Tasting
Your visit includes a guided tasting at one (or more) of the region’s renowned domaines.
Expect rich reds, elegant whites, and full-bodied blends crafted from the region’s iconic, sun-drenched terroir.
- Your sommelier or estate guide will introduce you to:
- The distinctive galet stones that warm the vines at night
- Historic cellars and barrel rooms
- Blends featuring Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre
- The techniques that define Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s global reputation
- Wine purchases and shipment options can be arranged upon request.
For guests eager to deepen their understanding of the region, your guide may include a second domaine visit, contrasting a traditional family-run estate with a more modern production.
After your tasting experience, settle comfortably into your Mercedes for the return to the port.
Your driver ensures you arrive back at your ship promptly, with enough time to reboard without stress.
Optional Extras For An Ultra-Luxury Experience
- Private masterclass with an award-winning winemaker
- Grand vintage tasting (20+ years old)
- Gourmet pairing of Rhône wines with local cheeses
- Personal photographer to document the day
- Michelin-recommended lunch in Avignon or the vineyards
FAQs for the Avignon & Châteauneuf-du-Pape Shore Excursion
1. Will My Private Driver Meet Me Directly at the Marseille Cruise Terminal?
Yes. Your chauffeur-guide greets you right at the terminal arrivals area and ensures immediate, seamless departure toward Avignon.
2. How Long Is the Drive From Marseille to Avignon, and Is It Scenic?
The drive is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes and passes through classic Provençal countryside, vineyards, orchards, and stone villages, setting a beautiful tone for your day.
3. Is an Interior Visit of the Palais des Papes Included?
Yes. A curated interior visit is available and highly recommended, offering private insight into the grand halls, frescoed chapels, and ceremonial chambers of Europe’s largest Gothic palace.
4. Is a Gourmet Lunch in Avignon or the Vineyards Possible During the Excursion?
Yes. We can reserve a Michelin-recommended restaurant or a refined vineyard table if timing allows within your cruise schedule.
5. Can Wines Be Purchased and Shipped Home From the Domaines?
Yes. Most châteaux offer international shipping. Your guide assists with logistics to ensure seamless delivery.
