Most visitors to Avignon spend just one day exploring this historic city, but that’s hardly enough time to uncover its many secrets. With its rich history, cultural landmarks, and Provençal charm, Avignon is a destination that has something for everyone.
As you wander through the city‘s medieval streets, you’ll discover plenty of things to see and do, from the imposing Palais des Papes to the famous Pont d’Avignon. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply enjoying the local cuisine, you’ll find that Avignon has a time-less appeal that makes it a must-visit destination.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the top things to do in Avignon, helping you make the most of your time in this enchanting city.
Discovering the Papal City of Avignon
As you step into Avignon, the rich history and cultural significance of this papal city immediately captivate you. The city’s strategic location at the confluence of the Rhône and Durance rivers made it an important commercial center since ancient times.
A Brief History of Avignon
Avignon’s history as a papal city began in 1309 when Pope Clement V established his seat here, marking the beginning of the Avignon Papacy, which lasted for 68 years. During this period, the city was transformed into a major religious and cultural hub, leaving behind a legacy of magnificent architectural treasures, including the imposing Palais des Papes. The papacy’s presence not only shaped the city’s skyline but also infused it with a rich cultural heritage that continues to attract visitors today.
Understanding Avignon’s history enhances your appreciation of its monuments and the significant role the city played in European history. The city’s strategic location and its history as a papal enclave until 1791 have contributed to its unique character and architectural landscape.
When to Visit Avignon
Planning your visit to Avignon requires considering the time of year. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are ideal due to the pleasant weather, making them perfect for exploring the city’s historic sites. In contrast, July brings the famous Festival d’Avignon, attracting large crowds and showcasing the city’s vibrant cultural scene, but be prepared for the heat.
For a more serene experience, consider visiting during the winter months (November-March), when the mistral wind may bring cold and windy conditions, but you’ll encounter fewer tourists, allowing for a more authentic experience of the city and its monuments.
Explore the Magnificent Palais des Papes
Dominating the Avignon skyline, the Palais des Papes is an unmissable experience for any visitor. This colossal Gothic fortress is not only a testament to the city’s rich history but also a reflection of its former glory as the seat of the Catholic Church.
Inside the Palace of the Popes
As you venture inside, you’ll discover the grandeur of the palace, with its 25 rooms open to the public. The “Histopad” tablet provides an augmented reality experience, allowing you to visualize the rooms in their original splendor. You’ll explore the grand ceremonial halls where popes received dignitaries, private papal apartments adorned with beautiful frescoes, and enormous kitchens that once prepared elaborate feasts.
The Palais des Papes is a living, breathing work of art, with each pope adding or subtracting wings and towers over the years. Today, it’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors from around the world.
Tips for Visiting the Papal Palace
To make the most of your visit, consider arriving early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Allow at least two hours to explore the palace and its many rooms. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace, which offers spectacular views over Avignon’s rooftops and the Rhône River. The Palais des Papes also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including sound and light shows and performances during the Festival d’Avignon in July.
Walk on the Famous Pont d’Avignon
As you explore Avignon, France, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks awaits you – the Pont d’Avignon. This ancient bridge, also known as Pont Saint-Bénézet, is a must-visit attraction that has been immortalized in a traditional French children’s song.
The Story Behind the Bridge
The Pont d’Avignon has a rich history dating back to the 11th century when a shepherd named Bénézet claimed divine inspiration to build a bridge across the Rhône River. Initially constructed in wood, the bridge was later rebuilt in stone. Despite numerous rebuilding efforts, the bridge was eventually abandoned in the 17th century due to repeated damage from the powerful river currents. Today, only four of its original 22 arches remain, making it a unique and fascinating piece of history.
Best Viewpoints of the Bridge
To fully appreciate the Pont d’Avignon, you can view it from various vantage points around the city. The Rocher des Doms gardens above the city offer a stunning view of the bridge and the Rhône River. Alternatively, you can take a boat trip on the Rhône or cross to Île de la Barthelasse for a perfect photographic perspective. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can walk on the bridge itself for €5, enjoying views of the Palais des Papes and the Rhône Valley.
The Pont d’Avignon is not just a bridge; it’s a symbol of the city, connecting Avignon to its history and culture. As you walk along the river or visit the bridge, you’ll be struck by its beauty and historical significance. The city of Avignon is proud of its iconic landmark, and you can experience this pride firsthand by visiting the Pont d’Avignon.
Wander Through Avignon’s Medieval Old Town
Avignon’s medieval old town, encircled by 4.3km-long stone ramparts, is a perfect blend of history and charm. As you wander through thenarrow cobblestone streetsand charming squares, you’ll discover a labyrinth of historic buildings that transport you back to medieval times.
The City Ramparts and Gates
The well-preservedcity walls, built to protect the papal city from mercenary attacks, feature impressive gates and towers that you can walk alongside for excellent views of both the historic center and the surrounding landscape. Therampartsoffer a unique perspective on the city’s layout and history.
Rue des Teinturiers: Avignon’s Most Picturesque Street
One of the highlights of Avignon’s old town isRue des Teinturiers, a picturesque street lined with plane trees and featuring four ancient water wheels that once powered the city’s textile industry. This enchanting street follows the Canal de Vaucluse and was once the center of Avignon’s silk spinning and dyeing industry. Today, it’s home to charming cafés with outdoor terraces, boutique shops, and during the summer festival, it transforms into a hub of theatrical performances.
As you explore the old town, you’ll find that thestreetsare pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to wander around and discover hidden corners. The combination of history, charm, and natural beauty makes Avignon’s medieval old town a must-visit destination.
- Discover the charm of Avignon’s medieval old town, encircled by 4.3km-long stone ramparts.
- Explore the well-preserved city walls and impressive gates.
- Visit Rue des Teinturiers, a picturesque street with ancient water wheels.
Visit Avignon’s World-Class Museums
Avignon’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its numerous world-class museums. As you explore the city, you’ll discover a diverse range of artistic and historical treasures that showcase its papal legacy and ongoing commitment to the arts.
Musée du Petit Palais
The Musée du Petit Palais, housed in a former archbishop’s palace, is a must-visit for art lovers. This stunning museum features an exceptional collection of Italian religious paintings from the 13th to 16th centuries, including Botticelli’s masterpiece “La Vierge et l’Enfant” (1470). The building itself is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, complementing the nearby Palais des Papes.
Collection Lambert for Contemporary Art
For contemporary art enthusiasts, the Collection Lambert is a treasure trove of modern and contemporary works from the 1960s to the present day. This striking collection is housed within an elegant 18th-century mansion, providing a unique contrast between old and new.
Musée Angladon and Its Van Gogh Masterpiece
The intimate Musée Angladon is home to an impressive collection of artworks, including pieces by Cézanne, Degas, and Picasso. However, its crown jewel is Van Gogh’s “Railway Wagons,” the only painting by the Dutch master on display in Provence. This museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the city’s rich artistic heritage.
In addition to these museums, Avignon is also home to other notable institutions, including the Musée Calvet (fine arts), the Musée Lapidaire (archaeology), and the Louis Vouland Museum (decorative arts). These museums contribute to Avignon’s reputation as a city of culture, making it a paradise for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Avignon, France: Best Things to Do for Food Lovers
Avignon is a culinary gem, offering a delightful array of Provençal cuisine that makes food exploration one of the top things to do in this historic city. As you wander through Avignon, you’ll discover a rich culinary landscape that is deeply rooted in local traditions and ingredients.
Les Halles Food Market
At the heart of Avignon’s food scene is Les Halles, a vibrant covered market that operates every morning except Monday. Here, you can browse stalls filled with an array of regional specialties, including truffles, artisanal olive oils, cheeses, and fresh produce. Les Halles is not just a place to shop; it’s also a destination to savor local flavors at one of its several eateries, such as La Cabane d’Oléron for fresh oysters or Cuisine Centr’Halles for prepared Provençal dishes.
Top Restaurants and Cafés in Avignon
Beyond Les Halles, Avignon boasts a diverse range of restaurants and cafes that cater to all tastes. For a taste of traditional French cuisine, head to L’Ardoise, while Alice et ses Merveilles is perfect for a leisurely afternoon tea. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, Naka offers Japanese cuisine, a refreshing contrast to the local Provençal dishes. Don’t miss dining at a terrace café on Place de l’Horloge or Place des Corps Saints, where you can enjoy people-watching while sampling local specialties.
Avignon’s culinary scene is characterized by its emphasis on seasonal eating, with summer bringing light dishes paired with chilled rosé wine, and winter offering hearty stews like boeuf en daube and bouillabaisse. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal at a market stall or a more formal dining experience, Avignon has something to satisfy every palate.
Experience the Famous Festival d’Avignon
As summer begins, Avignon hosts one of the world’s most esteemed theater festivals, the Festival d’Avignon. This event transforms the city into a vibrant hub of performing arts, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year.
The Official Festival and the Fringe
The Festival d’Avignon, held annually in July, is a celebration of contemporary performing arts. The festival’s most iconic venue is the Cour d’Honneur of the Palais des Papes, where performances take place under the stars. Alongside the official festival is the “Festival OFF,” a fringe festival featuring over 1,500 shows in more than 100 venues throughout the city.
During festival time, Avignon’s streets become alive with performers promoting their shows, impromptu performances, and a carnival-like atmosphere. This makes the festival one of the most exciting things to experience in Avignon.
Tips for Attending Performances
To make the most of the festival, it’s advisable to book accommodation well in advance and pick up the program guide to plan your schedule. Be prepared to embrace the spontaneity of discovering unexpected performances in courtyards and historic buildings. The festival is accessible to international visitors, as many performances transcend language barriers through movement, music, and visual storytelling.
The city comes alive during the Festival d’Avignon, offering a unique experience that combines culture, entertainment, and community.
Take a Cruise on the Rhône River
Experience Avignon from a fresh perspective by taking a cruise on the Rhône River. The Rhône originates in the Swiss Alps and flows for 813km past the vineyards of the Côte du Rhône and through the cities of Lyon, Avignon, and Arles, until it reaches the Mediterranean.
Taking a cruise on the majestic Rhône River offers one of the most relaxing and scenic things to do in Avignon, providing unique perspectives of the city’s historic skyline. From the water, you’ll enjoy unparalleled views of Avignon’s famous landmarks, including the Pont d’Avignon and the imposing Palais des Papes set against the backdrop of the city walls.
Boat Tours from Avignon
Several boat tour operators offer cruises ranging from one-hour sightseeing trips to full-day excursions or evening dinner cruises that showcase the golden light on Avignon’s medieval architecture. You can choose a tour that suits your schedule and preferences.
Visit Île de la Barthelasse
For a quick and free water experience, take the navette fluviale (river shuttle) to Île de la Barthelasse, the largest river island in France that sits between two branches of the Rhône. This peaceful 700-hectare island offers a refreshing contrast to the bustling city, with cycling paths, walking trails, and small farms producing fruits and vegetables.
From the island, you’ll be rewarded with some of the best photographic views of Avignon’s skyline, particularly beautiful at sunset when the stone buildings glow in the warm light. The view of the bridge, Pont d’Avignon, is especially stunning.
Best Day Trips from Avignon
You can take exciting day trips from Avignon to discover the best of Provence. Avignon’s strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring the region, with plenty of fascinating destinations within easy reach.
Wine Tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Wine enthusiasts shouldn’t miss Châteauneuf-du-Pape, just 18km north of Avignon. Here, you can visit prestigious wineries to taste robust reds grown in the distinctive pebbly soil that gives these wines their unique character.
Roman Heritage in Orange and Arles
History buffs will appreciate day trips to Orange and Arles, where remarkably preserved Roman theaters, amphitheaters, and other ancient structures offer glimpses into the region’s rich Roman heritage.
The Picturesque Villages of Luberon
The picturesque hilltop villages of the Luberon region, including Gordes, Roussillon, and Bonnieux, showcase the quintessential Provençal landscape of lavender fields, vineyards, and ochre-colored buildings.
Other day trip options include the Camargue wetlands, where you can see wild white horses and pink flamingos, and L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, known for its antique market on Sundays. With so many exciting destinations nearby, Avignon is the perfect place to base your exploration of Provence.
Practical Information for Visiting Avignon
With its rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes, Avignon is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience. Getting to Avignon is easy, with the TGV high-speed train connecting Paris to Avignon in under 3 hours. The city’s compact old town makes walking the best way to explore its attractions, including the Palais des Papes and Pont d’Avignon, which are within a 15-minute walk of each other.
To make the most of your visit, consider purchasing the Avignon City Pass, which grants access to many top attractions, including several museums and the Palais des Papes. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample local Provençal specialties at Les Halles market, open every morning except Monday. Take a stroll along Rue des Teinturiers and relax in the charming squares, such as Place de l’Horloge and Place du Palais.
For panoramic views of the city, head to the Rocher des Doms gardens, situated above the Palais des Papes. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply enjoying the local wine and food, Avignon has something for everyone. Plan your day trip or longer stay to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site and create lasting memories.
