Avignon and Provence Day Trip from Paris by TGV Train
Visit Avignon and experience the magnificent beauty of Provence on a full-day trip from Paris by TGV, France’s high-speed train. Enjoy the scenic landscapes surrounding the town of Avignon and visit the Popes' Palace, one of the biggest Gothic palaces in Europe. See the Roman ruins in St Rémy de Provence, enjoy a tour with your expert local guide around the picturesque village of Les Baux de Provence and visit the Pont du Gard, a famous Roman bridge.
Boarding the TGV (high-speed train) in Paris, you'll start your day trip by heading south to Avignon, passing by the beautiful landscapes of Burgundy and the Rhone Valley. When you arrive in Avignon, visit the Popes' Palace (Palais des Papes), one of the biggest Gothic palaces in Europe. As you explore this fascinating palace on your own, listen to audio commentary about the history of the building and how Avignon became the City of Popes. You'll have free time for lunch (own expense) and a stroll through the city center before boarding an air-conditioned coach to continue your day trip with an expert local guide.
Enjoy a photo stop at Nostradamus’ birthplace, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed St Rémy de Provence -- better known for its Roman ruins (Les Antiques) and the surrounding olive trees that were painted several times by Van Gogh.
Then move on to Les Baux de Provence, a picturesque medieval village built on a rocky ledge more than 800 feet (245 meters) high. Your expert local guide will introduce you to the village on a comprehensive walking tour, before allowing you time at leisure to explore on your own. Discover Les Baux's historical center and its traditional village market stalls that sell shimmering palettes of traditional Provencal souvenirs, including perfumes, handcrafts and olive oil.
Your full-day tour continues to the famous Pont du Gard, a fantastically preserved Roman aqueduct and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Have free time to enjoy this amazingly tranquil place before returning to Avignon for your high-speed train ride back to Paris.