AVIGNON ESSENTIALS: A Food and Wine First Taste
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 54 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is AVIGNON ESSENTIALS: A Food and Wine First Taste worth booking?
AVIGNON ESSENTIALS: A Food and Wine First Taste is a 3-hour experience in Avignon, France, from $100 per person. It scores 76 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 54 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 76 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (54)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $100 per person
Looking for the ultimate first taste of Avignon’s food & wine? In just 3 hours, plunge into the heart of the historic City of the Popes through its iconic landmarks and picturesque hidden streets. Along the way, wake up your taste buds with 10 delicious, handpicked tastings: rich estate olive oils, creamy artisan cheeses, crunchy local nougat, fragrant lavender honey, and delicate sun-kissed sweets. The grand finale? A generous, authentic sit-down regional lunch featuring a savory traditional dish, salad, fresh crusty bread, and a glass of local wine in a charming bistro. This tour is led by Zahra, a passionate native guide recommended by Rick Steves (2026 updates). Tastings vary by availability. The covered market is morning-only.
What you get
About this experience
Looking for the ultimate first taste of Avignon’s food & wine? In just 3 hours, plunge into the heart of the historic City of the Popes through its iconic landmarks and picturesque hidden streets. Along the way, wake up your taste buds with 10 delicious, handpicked tastings: rich estate olive oils, creamy artisan cheeses, crunchy local nougat, fragrant lavender honey, and delicate sun-kissed sweets. The grand finale? A generous, authentic sit-down regional lunch featuring a savory traditional dish, salad, fresh crusty bread, and a glass of local wine in a charming bistro. This tour is led by Zahra, a passionate native guide recommended by Rick Steves (2026 updates). Tastings vary by availability. The covered market is morning-only.
What's included
Included
- Lunch
- Wine Tasting
- Dinner
- Expert Local Guides
- Food Tasting
Not included
- Entrance fees to monuments and historical sites
- The covered market is morning-only; a premium alternative is provided for afternoon tours.
- Please note: Tastings may vary based on ultra-fresh product availability.
What you'll see and do
Liquid Gold, Rare Honey & Warm Welcomes We begin our gastronomic morning with a delightful burst of energy and a wonderful, smiling welcome. This is a private, curated tasting of the region’s most prestigious liquid treasures, held in an elegant venue dedicated entirely to culinary excellence. You will savor exceptional, first-press extra virgin olive oils that taste like pure sunshine, alongside rare, raw honeys sourced directly from protected local hives far from the tourist crowds. Depending on the morning's best market arrivals, we will pair these with perfectly aged, artisanal cheeses that melt in your mouth. This is a rich, exquisite, and deeply joyful wake-up call for your palate, served with the flawless care of high-end conciergerie service.
Pass by without stopping
The Vibrant Heart of the Covered Market Next, we step into the lively, colorful energy of Avignon’s famous covered market, a bustling morning haven where the city's top food professionals and most passionate chefs gather. The atmosphere here is wonderfully effervescent, filled with laughter, local accents, and beautiful aromas. Right in front of the market's iconic, breathtaking green wall, we will share a moment of pure conviviality. You will bite into a warm, deeply savory, and beautifully caramelized slice of artisanal pissaladière—a traditional onion, anchovy, and olive tart crafted to absolute perfection. It is the ultimate, mouth-watering symbol of Provençal comfort food, experienced like a true local insider.
30 minutes here · Admission included
A Secret Courtyard of Pure, Organic Refinement We then push open the doors of a hidden, boutique workshop where the senses are instantly treated to the highest level of craftsmanship. This elegant space is dedicated to hand-made, ultra-natural beauty botanicals crafted on-site with total passion and zero chemicals. Surrounded by these delicate, soothing scents, a clean, private, and highly exclusive tasting table awaits our small group. You will indulge in a vibrant spread of beautiful, plump, and perfectly cured green and black olives, served alongside crispy, golden toasts and three distinct, freshly prepared tapenades of unparalleled quality. It is a sophisticated, sensory experience that celebrates purity, clean living, and the bright, sunny flavors of the South.
30 minutes here
The Prestige Art of Wine & Cheese Pairing A magnificent highlight for wine lovers and connoisseurs alike. We enjoy privileged access to a prestigious wine institution founded in 1900, world-renowned for its legendary cellar and elite standards. In this refined and historic setting, a top-tier wine expert welcomes us with open arms and a fantastic, celebratory spirit. You will be guided through a flawless, educational masterclass pairing bold, smooth, and perfectly balanced Rhône Valley wines with premium local cheeses. Each cheese is selected for its intense, deep character and impeccable aging process. This is a sophisticated yet incredibly fun and relaxed session where world-class bottles meet the authentic, uncompromised soul of Provençal viticulture.
45 minutes here
Near Place des Carmes A Chef's "Light Lunch" of Culinary Emotion Take your seat at a warm, beautifully set, and authentic local table that proudly refuses any industrial shortcuts or mass-market compromises. Here, the chef cooks with love, joy, and a deep respect for the land, creating a fresh, Mediterranean morning lunch made entirely from pristine, seasonal ingredients. You will feast on a savory, masterfully caramelized sun-vegetable tatin tart, accompanied by a delicate, flaky artisanal tartlet and a crisp, vibrant green salad dressed to perfection. Everything is washed down with an exceptional, hand-selected glass of local wine that perfectly elevates the meal. It is a generous, healthy, and deeply memorable dining experience filled with laughter and pure culinary emotion.
60 minutes here
A Sweet, Crispy Secret from a 16th-Century Oven To conclude our marvelous morning journey on a high note, we will share a delightful sweet treat as we stroll through secret alleys or relax in a quiet, sun-drenched neighborhood garden. You will taste a genuine Oreillette—a crispy, golden, and delicately sugar-dusted Provençal pastry that practically floats in your mouth. This sweet masterpiece is crafted by a legendary local family whose baking secrets have been passed down since 1931, using a historic, vaulted oven that has been firing since the 16th century. It is a perfect, crispy piece of history and a beautifully sweet, good-humored finale to our luxury tour before we return to the vibrant main square.
15 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Avignon
The meeting point is located at Place de l'Horloge in Avignon Centre, right in front of the carousel.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, fr
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
- Group size
- Up to 12 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Avignon Bespoke Tours
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- What to bring: Travelers should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) and a small bottle of water, especially in summer.
- Timing: The tour lasts 3 hours. Please note that monument visits are not included in this timeframe. The guide will, however, provide all the information needed for guests to choose which sites to visit independently after the tour.
- Dietary Restrictions: Travelers must inform the guide of any food allergies or specific dietary requirements at the time of booking or before the tour starts.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 54 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Food and drink
9 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Traveler reviews
54 verified traveler reviews for AVIGNON ESSENTIALS: A Food and Wine First Taste. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great experience!
Zara was a super fun and very knowledgeable guide! We toured all around Avignon trying many different types of food.. she was even helpful setting up a driver for us to go to the airport. Kind, knowledgeable and fun Zara is!
via Viator
Absolutely terrific!!
First of all, every complimentary thing you read about Zahra is 100% accurate! She is friendly, personable, well informed, and prepared. You could not ask for a better guide. The tour itself has plenty of delicious samples in multiple locations. We did not feel rushed but neither did it feel leisurely -- there was literally a lot of ground to cover so be prepared with comfortable walking shoes and to be on the move. We did sit down at a sidewalk cafe for salad, goat cheese with bread, and wine which was all part of the tour. Very fun -- highly recommend!!
via Tripadvisor
A historic overview and fantastic food
Zarah was an extraordinary guide and taught me so much about Avignon despite living here already. Her taste is impeccable and all the places she chose for us was perfect. I took my mother for a day away and it was the perfect excursion. I recommend Zarah wholeheartedly!
via Tripadvisor
A wonderful experience with Zahra!
My 3 friends and I were visiting Avignon from the US for a Rhone/Provence wine trip and our first event upon arrival was this food tour with Zahra. It was the best way to be introduced to the sites & tastes of the region. Zahra is a wonderful tour guide who was so friendly, knowledgeable and was easy to understand. During the tour, she gave us insight into the local history, architecture and culture as delicious bites and wine of course! In addition, Zahra gave us advice on great towns to visit, restaurants to go to and wine regions to try during our 9 day trip. I am so glad that we booked this tour and plan to contact her the next time I am in the area.
Response from the operator: Dear skj888, Thank you so much for this wonderful review! It was a real pleasure guiding you and your friends on your first day in Avignon. I loved sharing the sights, history, and delicious flavors of Provence with such an enthusiastic group to launch your wine tour. I'm delighted that the recommendations helped you make the most of your 9-day journey through the region. It would be an absolute pleasure to welcome you back — or to guide any of your friends who might be planning a trip to Provence! Safe travels back to the US, and see you next time! Warm regards,
via Tripadvisor
Good food, nice people, great guide.
Zahra gave us a great tour of Avignon. Top tip: do this on your first day because she gives you good ideas on where to go and where to eat (and not to eat!). Definitely recommend.
Response from the operator: Dear AmandE756, Thank you so much for the kind words and recommendation! I truly enjoyed walking you through Avignon and sharing some of my favorite local spots and flavors with you. I’m glad you found the tips helpful for the rest of your stay — pointing visitors toward the best authentic tables (and away from tourist traps!) is always one of my favorite parts of the tour. If any of your friends or family are planning a trip to Avignon, please feel free to send them my way! It was a real pleasure guiding you. Warmly, Zahra »
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 19
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Avignon Bespoke Tours, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 54.5.
See everything Avignon Bespoke Tours runsWhy this scores 76
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
AVIGNON ESSENTIALS: A Food and Wine First Taste: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Avignon.
How much does AVIGNON ESSENTIALS: A Food and Wine First Taste cost?
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Prices start at $100 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Avignon usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does AVIGNON ESSENTIALS: A Food and Wine First Taste take?
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Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Avignon is not rushed.
Is AVIGNON ESSENTIALS: A Food and Wine First Taste worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 76 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 54 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Avignon, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule AVIGNON ESSENTIALS: A Food and Wine First Taste?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is AVIGNON ESSENTIALS: A Food and Wine First Taste suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book AVIGNON ESSENTIALS: A Food and Wine First Taste?
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Around 19 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Avignon can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Avignon and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does AVIGNON ESSENTIALS: A Food and Wine First Taste start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Avignon within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Avignon?
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On Outty we rank every Avignon experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Highlights of Provence in One Day, Chateauneuf du Pape wine tour, Lavender Route - Small-Group Day Trip from Avignon. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Avignon?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Avignon?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in AVIGNON ESSENTIALS: A Food and Wine First Taste?
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Included: Lunch; Wine Tasting; Dinner; Expert Local Guides; and Food Tasting. Not included: Entrance fees to monuments and historical sites; The covered market is morning-only; a premium alternative is provided for afternoon tours; and Please note: Tastings may vary based on ultra-fresh product availability. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for AVIGNON ESSENTIALS: A Food and Wine First Taste?
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The meeting point is located at Place de l'Horloge in Avignon Centre, right in front of the carousel. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is AVIGNON ESSENTIALS: A Food and Wine First Taste offered in?
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It is offered in English and French. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for AVIGNON ESSENTIALS: A Food and Wine First Taste?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is AVIGNON ESSENTIALS: A Food and Wine First Taste wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to AVIGNON ESSENTIALS: A Food and Wine First Taste if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Avignon. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about AVIGNON ESSENTIALS: A Food and Wine First Taste?
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Across 54 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include food and drink, the guide, knowledge and storytelling. The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
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