Avignon Food Tour: Palace of the Popes & Provençal Tastings

Summary

Avignon flavors from palace steps to hidden bakeries with wine

You’ll walk Avignon’s medieval streets with a local guide, tasting Provençal olive oils, warm pissaladière, Rhône Valley wines with cheese and honey pairings, plus seasonal pies near the Pont d’Avignon. Expect laughter over mispronounced names and small moments that linger long after you’ve finished dessert.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if you can actually taste the sun in a tomato? That was my first thought as we waited by the Palace of the Popes — it’s huge, by the way, and somehow even more imposing when you’re hungry. Our guide, Camille, waved us over with this easy smile and started talking about how Avignon’s food is basically shaped by its history. She switched between English and French so smoothly that I almost forgot I only understood half of what was happening around us (the French grandmas at the bakery were definitely judging my accent).

We wandered through these winding old streets that smell like warm bread and herbs — thyme, mostly, but also something floral I couldn’t place. First stop was olive oil and tapenade tasting. I’ll admit, I never really got tapenade before this. Camille explained how every family has their own recipe; hers uses more anchovies “for punch,” she said. The pissaladière (sort of an onion tart) was still warm from the oven. Eating it outside, with people chatting all around us and church bells somewhere in the distance… honestly, I didn’t expect to feel so at home here.

The private wine tour part came next — a tiny bar tucked behind a blue door near Place Pie. The owner poured us Côte du Rhône and paired it with goat cheese drizzled with honey. He joked that if you don’t spill at least a drop on your shirt, you’re not drinking it right (I did). There was laughter and a bit of awkwardness when someone tried to pronounce “Châteauneuf-du-Pape” — Li laughed so hard she nearly snorted her wine.

By the time we reached the Pont d’Avignon for dessert — slices of pie made with whatever fruit is in season — I was honestly full but couldn’t say no. The air felt softer by then, late afternoon light bouncing off the river. We ended with Provençal biscuits dipped in local honey, which stuck to my fingers longer than I’d like to admit. Even now, some days later, I keep thinking about that goat cheese and how everyone seemed just a little happier after each bite.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Avignon culinary tour and tastings

• Meet guide at Palace of the Popes
• Walk historic streets of Avignon
• Taste olive oil and tapenade
• Try Pissaladière onion tart
• Enjoy typical Provençal dish with wine
• Discover cheese and wine pairing
• Sample sweet pie selection
• Taste local biscuits, honey, and jam

Top questions

How long does the Avignon food tour last?

The tour lasts several hours and includes multiple stops for tastings equivalent to a full meal.

Is wine included on this Avignon culinary tour?

Yes, at least one alcoholic drink is included for guests over 18 years old during the wine tasting stop.

Where does the food tour start in Avignon?

The tour begins in front of the Palace of the Popes (Palais des Papes) in central Avignon.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated on this tour?

Please contact the provider before booking to discuss any food restrictions or allergies.

Does this Avignon food tour include dessert?

Yes, dessert is included—expect seasonal pies and Provençal sweet treats near St. Benezet Bridge.

Is there a lot of walking involved on this culinary tour?

The tour involves walking through Avignon’s historic center; travelers should have moderate fitness.

Are children allowed on this Avignon gastronomic experience?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed and infant seats are available.

What’s included

Your day includes guided walking through Avignon’s historic center with stops for olive oil and tapenade tastings, warm pissaladière or Provençal cheese with wine (depending on lunch or dinner), seasonal pies for dessert near St. Benezet Bridge, water throughout, at least one glass of local wine for adults, plus all guidance from your bilingual local expert before finishing up comfortably full.