Southern France Small Group Tours
Picture yourself exploring Monaco's royal quarter, wandering Nice's medieval streets and learning to cook in with people who quickly become friends. These tours along the French Riviera mix château tastings in Médoc with UNESCO heritage walks through Saint-Émilion and lazy afternoons by Mediterranean beaches. A taste of chic France with plenty of beauty.
10 best Southern France small group tours
Compiled by
MelissaSouthern France travel expert at TourRadar
- Discovery of the Hinterland of Provence
- 7 Days Paris, Toulouse & Lourdes Discovery
- Local Living France: Toulouse
- Cultural and Gourmet Tour in Provence
- In-depth Discovery of the French Riviera & Provence
- Customized 14 Days France High-end Tour, Daily Start and Private Guide
- France Drive, Riviera & Provence in a Porsche: Pre-set sat-nav guided
- Sailing along the beautiful islands of France
- Best Of Provence
- Languedoc Wine Tour
Discovery of the Hinterland of Provence
5 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“They organized tours that immersed us in the flavor of Provence. Every tour leader was punctual, friendly and very knowledgeable!”
MaryJane, traveled in June
Eight travelers at most share Southern France's hidden gems, from private e-bike tours in Aix-en-Provence to exclusive wine tastings in Côtes-de-Provence. Small groups enjoy personal attention at historic sites like Lourmarin Castle and local restaurants.
Duration 5 days Destinations Aix-En-Provence, Bonnieux, Lourmarin, Gordes, Roussillon, Marseille Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, French Group Size Max Group Size 15 Group Type PrivatePersonalized Operator So Provence So Alps ! From
- US$1,933
Duration 7 days Destinations Paris, Versailles, Toulouse, Albi, Cordes-sur-Ciel, Gaillac, Lourdes Age Range All Ages Welcome Group Size Max Group Size 1 Group Type Group Operator East Gate Tours LTD From $2,705
28% Off- US$1,948You save $757
Groups of 14 travelers take daily walking tours through Carcassonne, Albi, and Lourdes. The small size makes it easy to walk through Toulouse's Victor Hugo Market food tour, where you'll try local dishes like cassoulet and pink pralines without big crowds.
Duration 7 days Destinations Toulouse, Carcassonne, Albi, Lourdes, Foix Age Range Ages 12+ Group Size Max Group Size 14 Group Type Group Operator G Adventures From $1,699
25% Off- US$1,274You save $425
Cultural and Gourmet Tour in Provence
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This trip is ideal if you want to admire the Provence region off the beaten track; its small villages, its gastronomy, its colors and its smells.”
Ambre, traveled in July
Small groups of 2-8 travelers uncover Southern France's treasures. Wine tours weave through Bandol and Cassis vineyards, while boat trips glide across crystalline waters of Calanques National Park. Private walking tours in Aix-en-Provence enhance the experience. Particularly suited for mature couples.
Duration 8 days Destinations Marseille, Calanques National Park, Bandol, Cassis, Aix-En-Provence, Apt, Avignon, Chateauneuf du Pape, Alpilles, Les Baux de ProvenceSee all destinations Age Range Ages 10+ Operated in English, French Group Size Max Group Size 15 Group Type PrivatePersonalized Operator So Provence So Alps ! From
25% Off- US$3,649
In-depth Discovery of the French Riviera & Provence
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“These two regions are truly beautiful, and I highly recommend a visit. The organization was perfect due to good communication.”
Emma, traveled in May
Southern France reveals itself through a mix of private and shared experiences, featuring exclusive transfers and personalized guided tours through the French Riviera. Small-group activities include Grasse perfume workshops and Luberon village visits, maintaining an intimate atmosphere.
Duration 10 days Destinations Nice, Monaco, Eze, Cannes, Grasse, Saint-Tropez, Aix-En-Provence, Avignon, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, GordesSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, French Group Size Max Group Size 15 Group Type PrivatePersonalized Operator So Provence So Alps ! From
25% Off- US$3,992
With just 2-4 travelers, this private tour gives you one-on-one time with your English-speaking guide. You'll get exclusive wine tastings at Châteauneuf-du-Pape wineries and personal truffle hunting with local farmers in Luberon, with daily schedules adjusted to your interests.
Duration 14 days Destinations Paris, Versailles, Reims, Avignon, Pont du Gard, Nimes, Chateauneuf du Pape, Cannes, Antibes, NiceSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Group Size Max Group Size 4 Group Type PrivatePersonalized Operator Agate Travel From
25% Off- US$13,709
Southern France's most scenic routes unfold in complete privacy, from Nice's coastline to Gorges du Verdon's dramatic landscapes. The private format allows unhurried visits to medieval villages and mountain passes, with 5-star stays at Anantara Plaza and La Coquillade Village.
Duration 5 days Destinations Nice, Gorges Du Verdon, Castellane, Gordes, Mont-Ventoux Age Range Ages 25+ Group Size Max Group Size 2 Group Type PrivatePersonalized Operator EPIKdrives From
25% Off- US$7,995
Southern France's coast beckons sailors aged 20+ from Toulon marina. Small groups share berth cabins while visiting Île Porquerolles and Saint-Tropez, enjoying intimate dinners aboard and lively nights in coastal towns.
Duration 8 days Destinations Porquerolles, Le Lavandou, Saint-Tropez, Île de Port-Cros, Toulon Age Range Ages 20-39 Operated in Only: German Group Size Max Group Size 10 Group Type GroupPersonalized Operator sailwithus From
25% Off- US$904+$343 local payments
Best Of Provence
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“The route map book and GPS provided were easy to use and we enjoyed being able to set our own pace along the mostly quiet roads of picturesque Provence.”
Southern France beckons 1-3 cyclists per GPS device, combining independence with support. Routes wind through Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyards and up Mont Ventoux. The journey includes Avignon orientation and luggage transfers between superior hotels.
Duration 7 days Destinations Avignon, Chateauneuf du Pape, Serignan-du-Comtat, Rochegude, Vaison-la-Romaine, Bedoin, Mont-Ventoux, Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, Gordes, RoussillonSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Group Size Max Group Size 20 Group Type PrivatePersonalized Operator Discover France Adventures From
25% Off- US$1,430
Small groups of 1-3 cyclists share GPS navigation through Languedoc's landscapes. The route includes glass-blowing heritage sites in Claret, the 14th-century stone bridge at Saint Etienne d'Issensac, and Roman monuments in Nimes.
Duration 8 days Destinations Montpellier, St Guilhem le Desert, Millau, Lauret, Claret, Sommieres, Nimes Age Range All Ages Welcome Group Size Max Group Size 20 Group Type PrivatePersonalized Operator Discover France Adventures From
25% Off- US$1,281
Reviews of Small Group tours to Southern France
Everything that mattered was really good! The group of participants gelled very well, everyone seemed to enjoy the company of everyone else, so the marketing must be well focussed to get such a group of like-minded, like-focussed people. The tour leader was excellent. Andrew was able to read the group, adjust the activities, up or down, so that everyone seemed satisfied, regardless of their ability. Accommodations were basic, but comfortable, and there really wasn't time to do anything in the room but sleep and shower after the days' activities and socialising. The activity level was fairly demanding, days were full. It is not a relaxing vacation, but very satisfying for anyone looking for this kind of adventure
Cycle Provence
- Bike Tour, Provence, France (guided groups)
The Chain Gang trips are top notch and huge fun. Over 10 years or more I have been on most of the Chain Gang’s trips in France - three of them more than once - and I can highly recommend them for the cycling, the routes, the guides and the cuisine. Some of my best ever holidays have been with the Chain Gang. The cycling can be challenging at times but is not prohibitively over strenuous for casual and leisure cyclists. As well as cycling through quiet and often deserted back roads of France, the days allow times for good lunches (often picnics), sightseeing, visits to vineyards and plenty of time to enjoy the local attractions. The hotels used en route are all comfortable and welcoming. Most of all, the Chain Gang guides are exceptional - excellent company, great mechanics and by the end of your week good friends as well. My personal favourite trips are the ones to Provence, the Dordogne and the Bordeaux Wine Trail. I can heartily recommend the Chain Gang trips to anyone or any age who enjoys getting out on their bike.
What our customers ask about Southern France Small Group Tours
What unique accommodations are available for small group tours in Southern France?
Travelers on small group tours in Southern France stay in select properties that reflect the region's character. These range from the historic Auberge des Seguins a converted 17th-century property nestled in the Aiguebrun Gorge to the refined Chateau hotel Camperos in Bordeaux's wine region. In Sarlat the Hotel de Paris offers local hospitality while boutique properties like Hotel L'Interlude in Paris specifically accommodate smaller groups. A TourRadar traveler noted "Staying in these characteristic small hotels gave us a true taste of French hospitality that wouldn't be possible with larger groups."
What is the best season for small group tours in Southern France?
The peak season runs from May through September. June and September stand out as excellent months offering pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. A TourRadar traveler remarked "our small group could easily find space at cafes and restaurants in popular towns like Saint-Rémy-de-Provence during September while still enjoying perfect weather for outdoor activities." Properties such as the Castelet des Alpilles and Hotel Les Glycines show their best faces during these months with open gardens and outdoor dining.
What dining experiences are available on small group tours in Southern France?
Small groups enjoy access to local restaurants and family establishments where regional dishes take center stage. Travelers can try Cassoulet in Carcassonne or fresh oysters in Bordeaux. The tours include private tastings at notable estates like Château du Clos de la Madeleine and family-style meals at venues such as the Auberge des Seguins in Provence. A TourRadar traveler noted: "Our small group size meant we could dine at authentic local restaurants and even join cooking demonstrations that wouldn't work with larger groups."
How does transportation work for small group tours in Southern France?
Transportation centers on mini-coaches and vans that can navigate narrow streets and remote locations larger vehicles can't access. This setup allows groups to explore medieval towns like Saint-Emilion and Rocamadour with ease and travel between major sites like Bordeaux and the Dordogne Valley. Private transfers take guests to attractions such as the Lascaux Caves and Château de Peyrepertuse. TourRadar travelers report "The small van meant we could access authentic local spots that big tour buses miss entirely."
What is the typical small group size for tours in Southern France?
Groups typically consist of 8-15 travelers ensuring personal attention and flexibility. The Chain Gang cycling tours in Provence maintain groups of about 12 people which TourRadar travelers say "creates a perfect balance between social interaction and individual space." Accommodations like Hotel Les Glycines in Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil and Hotel de Parc in Cavaillon welcome these smaller groups with personalized service.
How much does a small group tour in Southern France typically cost?
Prices range from USD 350-1500 per day based on luxury level and included experiences. A 5-day luxury tour with stays at premium properties like the Anantara Plaza Hotel runs about USD 7200. More moderate options featuring 3-star hotels average USD 885 for 5 days. The higher rates reflect exclusive experiences private access and personalized service throughout the journey.