Background

Gardens at the Popes’ Palace: A Tranquil Escape

Discover a peaceful oasis within the historic Palais des Papes, showcasing meticulously restored medieval gardens and Mediterranean flora.

3.6

Escape the bustling city within the walls of the Gardens at the Popes' Palace in Avignon. These recently restored gardens offer a serene retreat with historical significance, showcasing Mediterranean flora and recreating the ambiance of a 14th-century papal pleasure garden.

A brief summary to Gardens at the Popes’ Palace

  • Rue des Esc. Sainte-Anne, Avignon, 84000, FR

Local tips

  • Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Allow at least one hour to fully explore the gardens and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
  • Check the Palais des Papes website for current opening hours, as they vary throughout the year.
  • Access to the gardens is free for Avignon residents upon presentation of proof of address.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Gardens are located adjacent to the Palais des Papes. From the main entrance of the Palace, follow the signs within the monument to access the gardens. Alternatively, enter directly via the Manutention entrance on Rue des Escaliers Ste Anne. This entrance is specifically for visitors only wanting to visit the gardens.

  • Public Transport

    Avignon's public transport network, Orizo, includes buses and a tramway. Several bus lines serve the area around the Palais des Papes. From the Avignon Centre train station, take a bus towards the city center and get off at a stop near the Palais des Papes. From there, it's a short walk to the Manutention entrance on Rue des Escaliers Ste Anne. A single ticket costs €1.40.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Avignon. A taxi from the Avignon Centre train station to the Palais des Papes area will cost approximately €10-€15. Taxi ranks are located in front of both the Avignon Centre and Avignon TGV train stations.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available in several car parks around the city walls. The closest parking to the Palais des Papes is underneath the Palais des Papes square. Parking rates range from €1.40-€1.70 per hour. Free parking is available at Ile Piot and Parking des Italiens, with free shuttle buses to the city center. Be aware that parking within the city walls is limited to 4 hours.

Unlock the Best of Gardens at the Popes’ Palace

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Gardens at the Popes’ Palace

The Gardens at the Popes’ Palace, a recent addition to the Palais des Papes experience, provide a tranquil space for relaxation and reflection while enhancing understanding of the Palace's history. These gardens, which have undergone an ambitious restoration, evoke the rich history of the site and highlight essential elements of the medieval period. The gardens have also been recognized with awards such as the Victoires du Paysage in 2022 and the Jardin Remarquable label in 2023. The gardens comprise two distinct areas: the Palace Garden (Jardin du Palais or Jardin Benoît XII), spanning 1250 m2, and the Papal Garden (Jardin du Pape), covering 662 m2. The Palace Garden's design incorporates the 14th-century hydraulic network, featuring large rectangular beds planted with Mediterranean species documented in the papal gardens during the 1300s. The Papal Garden, more intimate, once provided direct access from the Pope's apartments and has been restored to its original character, including the re-creation of the Griffin fountain and surrounding flowery meadow. Visitors can also see the remains of the Roma building, reconstructed as a monumental pergola that will eventually be covered in plants. These gardens, once considered essential living spaces and even earthly paradises, offer a unique glimpse into the private world of the Avignon Popes.

Popular Experiences near Gardens at the Popes’ Palace

Popular Hotels near Gardens at the Popes’ Palace

Select Currency