I'm interested in going to visit wineries in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Is renting a car the only option? Is there a bus or train service from Avignon ? Can I rent a bike? Or the area is too large for the bike?
If renting a car is the only option, would a U.S. driver's license work? Do I need to get an international driving permit from AAA? And about how much should I budget for renting a car for a day?
You might just do tour, where the visits at wineries are already set up, and since you are not driving, you can swallow. Here is one of many.
http://www.provenceandwine.com/en/5/chateauneuf-du-pape-provence-and-wine
Have you tried the Kirkland Chateauneuf du Pape at Costco? mmm.
You might contact the Avignon Office de Tourisme and ask about tours.
You could rent a bike. Cycling is very popular in western Provence.
Renting a car is not the only option but it is very practical as long as you are not drinking anything. The blood alcohol level in France is .05, much lower that what you may be accustomed to. You should also have an IDP from either AAA or AATA.
One day rental costs can very widely. Contact one of the large providers in France such as Sixt, Europcar, or Hertz.
I would recommend renting a bike, using the back lanes it is a really nice cycle ride (fairly flat as well!). In Avignon they have a self-service bike system called Velopop so bikes can be hired instantly form dozens of places all over the city.
Avignon is a city, I think biking in and out of there is a bad idea. It's around 18 km, which isn't bad, but I'm not sure how much of that would be riding in a place that is peaceful as opposed to avoiding traffic.
I rode along the Loire a year and a half ago. It was great except for getting through Tours. I'm worried Avignon would be similar if not worse.
Our group of 4 did a 7-day self-guided ride last June that included a ride from Avignon to CdP. The route was easy and kept us off the main roads, so yes, renting a bike is doable. Only problem might be the wine you buy and transporting it back! If you decide to spend the night in CdP, I highly recommend Chateau des Fines Roches.
Enjoy!
I would see no problem riding a bike into or out of Avignon--better than trying to take a car!
Having driven through Avignon, I think I would agree with that.
I've mentioned before the awesome bus ride from Orange to Vaison-la-Romaine--goes right through Vacqueras and {another big name].
Gigondas?
Thank you everyone for the great information. This all helps!
