Avignon: The City of Popes
Discover Avignon, the captivating city of Popes in Provence, where medieval history meets vibrant culture, offering iconic landmarks, artistic treasures, and Provençal charm.
Avignon, a captivating city in the Provence region of southern France, beckons with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Encircled by imposing medieval ramparts, this UNESCO World Heritage site boasts a fascinating past as the seat of the papacy in the 14th century. Explore the Palais des Papes, a colossal Gothic palace that once housed the Popes, and wander across the iconic Pont d'Avignon, a bridge immortalized in song. Immerse yourself in the city's lively atmosphere, discover hidden squares, and savor the flavors of Provençal cuisine. With its blend of historical significance, artistic flair, and youthful energy, Avignon promises an unforgettable travel experience.
A brief summary to Sud France
- Avignon, FR
Local tips
- Visit during the Festival d'Avignon in July for a unique cultural experience, but book accommodations well in advance.
- Explore the city on foot to discover hidden squares and charming streets.
- Take a day trip to the nearby Côtes du Rhône wine region for wine tasting and scenic views.
Getting There
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Walking
Avignon's historic center is compact and best explored on foot. From most points within the city walls, you can easily reach major attractions like the Palais des Papes and Pont d'Avignon within a 10-15 minute walk. Orient yourself using the Place de l'Horloge as a central point, and follow signs to the Palais des Papes. Note that some streets are cobblestone, so wear comfortable shoes.
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Public Transport
If arriving at Avignon Centre train station, the historic center is a short walk away. Alternatively, take the Cityzen mini-bus from the station to various points within the city walls. A single ticket costs around €1.40. If arriving at Avignon TGV station, take the TER train to Avignon Centre (a few minutes) or the bus; then proceed as above. A single TER train ticket is approximately €3-4.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available in Avignon. A short trip from Avignon Centre train station to a hotel within the city walls will cost approximately €15-€20. Be aware that traffic within the city walls can be congested, especially during peak season.
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Driving
Driving directly to the city center is not recommended due to narrow streets and limited parking. Several park-and-ride facilities are located outside the city walls, such as Parking Relais Piot (free parking, free shuttle) and Parking des Italiens (free parking, free shuttle). Parking at Place du Palais (underground, near Palais des Papes) costs approximately €2 per hour, with daily rates around €20. Esplanade Saint Bénezet (near Pont d'Avignon) offers drop-off bus parking: the first hour is free, then €3/hour.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Opéra Grand Avignon
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Experience world-class opera and performing arts in Avignon's historic Opéra Grand Avignon, a cultural jewel since the 19th century.
Pl. de l'Horloge
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Experience the vibrant ambiance of Place de l'Horloge in Avignon, where history meets culinary delights and local culture thrives.
Maison Jean Vilar
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Explore the life and legacy of Jean Vilar, founder of the Avignon Festival, at this cultural archive and performance space.
Church of Saint-Agricol
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Discover Avignon's Collégiale Saint-Agricol: a historic Gothic church housing the relics of its patron saint and showcasing centuries of art and architecture.
Provence Reservation
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Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Provence with expertly guided tours from Provence Reservation in Avignon.
L'Hôtel Calvet de la Palun (ancienne Banque de France)
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Explore the historical elegance of L'Hôtel Calvet de la Palun, a former Bank of France and architectural landmark in the heart of Avignon.
Hotel De La Prefecture
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Discover the architectural beauty and rich heritage of Hotel De La Prefecture, a historical landmark in the heart of Avignon that tells the story of the city's past.
Chapelle de l'Oratoire
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Discover Avignon's Chapelle de l'Oratoire: a historic chapel with unique architecture, a peaceful atmosphere, and a captivating past.
Place Crillon
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Discover Place Crillon in Avignon: a historic square with a relaxed atmosphere, rich history, and connection to notable figures.
Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs
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Discover Avignon's Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs, a historic chapel transformed into a vibrant venue for arts and culture.
Hôtel Madon de Châteaublanc
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Step back in time at Avignon's Hôtel Madon de Châteaublanc, a magnificent 17th-century mansion near the Palais des Papes.
Rocher des Doms
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Discover panoramic views and tranquil gardens at Avignon's historic Rocher des Doms, a hilltop oasis offering a refreshing escape.
Hôtel Armand
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Discover Avignon's Hôtel Armand: A historical landmark showcasing 18th-century architecture and the city's aristocratic heritage.
Synagogue d'Avignon
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Discover the Synagogue d'Avignon, a beacon of Jewish history and neo-classical architecture in the heart of Avignon's historic Jewish quarter.
Pont Saint-Bénézet
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Explore the remains of the legendary Pont d'Avignon, a medieval bridge with a famous song and rich history on the Rhône River.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sud France
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Discover Avignon, the captivating city of Popes in Provence, where medieval history meets vibrant culture, offering iconic landmarks, artistic treasures, and Provençal charm.
Place de l’Horloge
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Discover the vibrant heart of Avignon at Place de l’Horloge, a historical landmark filled with charm, culture, and culinary delights.
Espace Sylvain Gagnière — Ruines Romaines
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Explore Avignon's Roman past at Espace Sylvain Gagnière: Discover ancient ruins, learn about local history, and enjoy a peaceful escape in this captivating archaeological site.
Le Vin Devant Soi
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Experience the essence of wine culture at Le Vin Devant Soi in Avignon, where every bottle tells a story and every sip is a journey.
Palais du Roure
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Explore the rich cultural heritage of Avignon at Palais du Roure, where art and history come alive in a stunning architectural gem.
Vestiges du forum romain, Ier et IIème s.
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Explore the ancient remnants of Roman civilization at the Vestiges du Forum Romain in Avignon, a captivating tourist attraction steeped in history.
Hôtel des Monnaies
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Explore the historic Hôtel des Monnaies in Avignon, a captivating site that offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural and artistic heritage.
Galerie Du Palais Des Papes
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Explore the historical Galerie Du Palais Des Papes in Avignon, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing stunning art and architecture from the papal era.
Bild der Päpste von Avignon
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Discover Avignon's papal past at the 'Image of the Popes,' a historical site on Rue Dorée offering a glimpse into the era when Avignon served as the center of Christianity.
Basilique Saint-Pierre
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Explore the Basilica of Saint-Pierre in Avignon, a stunning Gothic masterpiece rich in history and spirituality, perfect for every traveler.
Hôtel de Verclos
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Discover the Hôtel de Verclos in Avignon, a magnificent 17th-century aristocratic residence showcasing classic French architecture and a rich history in the heart of Provence.
Petit train touristique d’Avignon
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Experience the charm of Avignon aboard the Petit Train Touristique, a unique and comfortable way to explore this historic city.
Theatre Paradise Republique
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Discover the magic of live theater at Theatre Paradise Republique, Avignon's premier performing arts venue with captivating performances.
Palais des Papes
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Explore the grand Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Gothic architecture and the rich history of the papacy in Avignon.
Rempart du Rhône Defensive Wall
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Discover the ancient Rempart du Rhône Defensive Wall in Avignon, a historical landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city's rich past.
Essential places to dine
La brasserie de l’horloge
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Discover the culinary delights of La Brasserie de l’Horloge in Avignon - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
La Cuisine de Papa
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Experience the essence of French gastronomy at La Cuisine de Papa in Avignon – where traditional flavors meet modern culinary artistry.
Léo Léa - Assiette au Boeuf - Avignon
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Experience exquisite French cuisine at Léo Léa - Assiette au Boeuf; indulge in savory meats and cocktails in Avignon's vibrant heart.
L'Essentiel
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Experience exquisite modern haute French cuisine at L'Essentiel in Avignon, where culinary artistry meets elegant dining.
Arlequin Restaurant
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Experience the essence of French cuisine at Arlequin Restaurant in Avignon - where tradition meets culinary artistry.
Restaurant La Cour du Louvre
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Experience authentic French cuisine at Restaurant La Cour du Louvre in Avignon - where tradition meets taste.
La Fourchette
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Experience exquisite French and Mediterranean cuisine at La Fourchette in Avignon – where every dish tells a story.
Hiély Lucullus
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Discover culinary artistry at Hiély Lucullus in Avignon - where French elegance meets Mediterranean flair for an unforgettable dining experience.
Le Carré du Palais
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Experience exquisite French cuisine and local wines at Le Carré du Palais in Avignon – where tradition meets contemporary flair.
Carre des papes
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Experience authentic French cuisine at Carre des Papes in Avignon - where tradition meets modern elegance in every bite.
Restaurant SEVIN
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Experience the culinary delights of Provence at Restaurant SEVIN in Avignon - where exquisite flavors meet elegant dining.
D'Ici Et D'Ailleurs
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Discover the exquisite flavors of France and the Mediterranean at D'Ici Et D'Ailleurs in Avignon - where every meal tells a story.
Restaurant Pollen
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Experience the essence of Mediterranean fine dining at Restaurant Pollen in Avignon - where every dish tells a story.
Le Goût du Jour
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Discover the essence of modern French cuisine at Le Goût du Jour in Avignon - where each dish is a masterpiece.
Le Vintage
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Experience the finest French cuisine at Le Vintage in Avignon – where tradition meets modernity in every delicious bite.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Jean Rian - Chaussures & accessoires
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Discover the exquisite footwear collection at Jean Rian in Avignon, where style meets comfort in every step.
Jrockinside Avignon
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Explore Avignon's vibrant fashion scene at Jrockinside, where unique styles and creative designs await every visitor.
Vogue
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Explore Vogue in Avignon for a curated selection of stylish clothing, offering the latest trends for men and women in a chic boutique setting.
Maison 123
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Discover Avignon's chicest boutique, Maison 123, featuring exclusive women's clothing and accessories for the modern fashionista.
PYLONES
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Explore PYLONES in Avignon: A whimsical gift shop brimming with unique fashion and home accessories that embody the spirit of France.
La boutique du sac
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Experience the charm of Avignon through exquisite leather goods at La Boutique du Sac, where craftsmanship meets style.
Maison Mood
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Explore the eclectic charm of Maison Mood, a boutique in Avignon offering unique fashion and lifestyle products that reflect the local culture.
La Fée Maraboutée
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Explore the chic women's clothing boutique La Fée Maraboutée in Avignon, where elegance meets contemporary fashion in a delightful shopping experience.
Pop Outlet | Concept store Avignon & e-boutique
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Explore Avignon's Pop Outlet: a boutique paradise for clothing, leather goods, and shoes in a historic setting.
Maje - Avignon
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Explore Maje in Avignon for a stunning selection of women's fashion, from chic dresses to elegant accessories, perfect for every stylish traveler.
ba&sh - Avignon
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Explore ba&sh in Avignon for stylish women's apparel and accessories, blending Parisian elegance with modern trends in a chic boutique setting.
Zadig&Voltaire
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Explore Zadig&Voltaire in Avignon for a unique blend of contemporary women's fashion and stylish accessories, epitomizing French chic.
American Vintage
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Explore American Vintage in Avignon for chic, timeless clothing that captures the essence of French style and craftsmanship.
Promod
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Explore stylish clothing and accessories at Promod in Avignon, where fashion meets affordability and quality.
Avignon Cadeaux
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Explore Avignon Cadeaux: A Unique Art Gallery and Rare Book Store in the Heart of Avignon, Blending Creativity with Elegance.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Opéra Café
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Discover the charm of Opéra Café in Avignon, where delightful French cuisine meets an inviting atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
In & Off
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Unwind at In & Off, a vibrant bar and restaurant in Avignon offering delicious local cuisine and a lively atmosphere.
BAR DU CHANGE
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Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cuisine of Bar du Change, a must-visit bar and brasserie in the heart of Avignon.
Le Palais Royal
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Discover the exquisite flavors and sophisticated ambiance at Le Palais Royal, a premier bar and restaurant in the heart of Avignon.
TAPIS ROUGE
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Discover the charm of Avignon at Tapis Rouge, a cozy wine bar offering an exquisite selection of local and international wines.
Le Tom Tip
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Discover Le Tom Tip in Avignon – a charming bar with a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for enjoying local drinks and mingling with the locals.
Barberousse Avignon
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Avignon at Barberousse, where quality drinks and a lively atmosphere await.
Au Fût et à mesure Avignon
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Discover the lively atmosphere of Au Fût et à mesure Avignon, where craft beer meets live music and unforgettable experiences.
Café Saint-Jean
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Experience the essence of French cuisine at Café Saint-Jean, Avignon's charming bistronomic restaurant and wine bar.
Le Central Bar
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Experience Avignon's nightlife at Le Central Bar, where exquisite cocktails and fine wines meet a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Red Sky
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Avignon at The Red Sky, where delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await you.
Baryum 56
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Discover Baryum 56 in Avignon, a chic cocktail bar offering exquisite drinks and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Arte Bar
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Discover Arte Bar: a lively bar and amateur theater in Avignon, offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and captivating performances.
Lalogène
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Discover the charming Lalogène bar in Avignon, offering a cozy atmosphere, a wide selection of drinks, and a taste of local culture.
Bar La place ️| Terrasse Cocktail Music
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Discover the vibrant Bar La Place in Avignon for an unforgettable cocktail experience with live music and a lively atmosphere.
