A Serene Retreat: The Gardens at the Popes’ Palace
Explore the breathtaking Gardens at the Popes’ Palace in Avignon, a serene escape filled with history, stunning views, and vibrant landscapes.
The Gardens at the Popes’ Palace, located in the historic city of Avignon, serve as a stunning testament to the city’s rich history and natural beauty. This expansive garden is not only a place of relaxation but is also steeped in the legacy of the Papacy, as it was once a retreat for the Popes during their reign in the 14th century. Strolling through the meticulously landscaped grounds, visitors will encounter a variety of plants, trees, and flowers that create a vibrant tapestry of colors throughout the seasons. The garden also boasts several shaded areas and benches, inviting guests to sit back and soak in the peaceful ambiance. The panoramic views from the garden are nothing short of breathtaking, providing a unique vantage point of the surrounding cityscape and the iconic Palace. Photographers and nature enthusiasts alike will find ample opportunities to capture the beauty of Avignon from this elevated perspective. Whether you are wandering along the pathways, admiring the fountains, or simply enjoying a leisurely picnic, the Gardens at the Popes’ Palace offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. For those interested in history, the gardens themselves are an extension of the Papal Palace, making it a perfect spot to reflect on the historical significance of Avignon. Guided tours often include the gardens, allowing tourists to appreciate both the botanical and historical aspects of this enchanting location. As the sun sets, the gardens take on a magical quality, illuminated by soft lights and the sounds of nature, making it a perfect destination for both day and evening visits.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Palace and the surrounding city.
- Check the seasonal bloom calendar to see the garden in its full floral glory.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you may want to explore the entire garden at a leisurely pace.
- Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in one of the many peaceful spots within the gardens.
A brief summary to Gardens at the Popes’ Palace
- Rue des Esc. Sainte-Anne, Avignon, 84000, FR
- Monday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Sunday 7:30 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the Avignon Central Train Station (Gare d'Avignon Centre), exit the station and head southeast on Rue de la République. Continue walking straight for about 700 meters until you reach the Place de l'Horloge. From there, turn right onto Rue de la République and walk towards the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes). Follow the signs to the Palais, which should take approximately 10 minutes. Once you reach the Palais des Papes, you will see the entrance to the Gardens at the Popes’ Palace (Jardins du Palais des Papes) just behind the palace itself. Walk through the entrance, and you will find the gardens.
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Public Transport
From the Avignon Central Train Station, you can take Bus Line 3 towards 'Les Angles'. Get off at the 'Palais des Papes' stop, which is the closest stop to the Gardens at the Popes’ Palace. The bus ride takes about 10 minutes. Once you disembark, walk towards the Palais des Papes, and the entrance to the gardens is located just behind the palace. It should take you less than 5 minutes to walk from the bus stop to the gardens.
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Walking
If you are near the Place de l'Horloge, simply head towards the Palais des Papes, which is a prominent landmark in Avignon. Walk straight down Rue de la République until you reach the Palais. The gardens are located just behind the palace; follow the signs once you arrive at the Palais des Papes.
Attractions Nearby to Gardens at the Popes’ Palace
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Palais des Papes
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Avignon Cathedral
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Petit train touristique d’Avignon
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Pinie
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Hôtel des Monnaies
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Place du Palais
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Basilique Saint-Pierre
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Galerie Du Palais Des Papes
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Jardin des Doms
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Cadran Humain
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Musée du Petit Palais
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Point de Vue direction Pont d'Avignon
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Stairs to Rocher des Doms
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Place de l’Horloge
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Belvédère Panoramique du Rhône
Landmarks nearby to Gardens at the Popes’ Palace
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Hôtel Madon de Châteaublanc
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L'Hôtel Calvet de la Palun (ancienne Banque de France)
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Opéra Grand Avignon
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Maison Jean Vilar
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Porte du Rocher Tower
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Synagogue d'Avignon
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Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs
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Provence Reservation
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Church of Saint-Agricol
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Pont Saint-Bénézet
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Le Grenier à sel
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Chapelle Saint-Bénézet
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Place Crillon
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Chapelle des Italiens - Chapelle Notre Dame de la Conversion
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Chapelle de l'Oratoire