AVIGNON
Avignon is a historic city on the banks of the Rhône River, defined by its powerful past as the seat of the Catholic Church in the 14th century. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a gateway to the stunning landscapes of Provence.
This region is a breathtaking blend of monumental history and Provençal charm. It is a place where you can wander through ancient halls of power, cross a legendary bridge, and explore a city rich with artistic and cultural heritage.
Most Popular Attractions
Avignon City Core
Palais des Papes (Papal Palace): A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. This massive fortress and palace was the seat of the popes in the 14th century.
Pont d’Avignon (Pont Saint-Bénézet): The legendary medieval bridge made famous by the song “Sur le Pont d’Avignon.” Only four arches remain, but it offers magnificent views of the city and the Papal Palace.
Notre-Dame des Doms Cathedral: A Romanesque cathedral next to the Papal Palace, home to the tomb of Pope John XXII and offering beautiful views from its roof.
Place de l’Horloge: The lively main square of Avignon, filled with cafés, restaurants, and the City Hall.
Rue des Teinturiers: A charming cobbled street with old waterwheels and plane trees, once the heart of the city’s textile industry.
Rocher des Doms: A public park on a hill overlooking the city, offering spectacular panoramic views of the Rhône River, the bridge, and the surrounding countryside.
Musée du Petit Palais: A museum housed in a 14th-century cardinal’s palace, with a remarkable collection of Italian and Avignon school paintings from the Middle Ages and Renaissance.
Les Halles d’Avignon: A vibrant covered market where you can find local Provençal produce, cheeses, and other delicacies.
Jardin des Pèlerins: A quiet garden with a medieval cloister offering a peaceful retreat in the city center.
Chapelle des Pénitents Gris: A beautiful baroque chapel with a stunning altar and ceiling.
Synagogue d’Avignon: A historical synagogue located in the heart of the former Jewish quarter, rebuilt in the 19th century.
Musée Calvet: A fine arts museum with a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and archaeological finds.
Avignon and Provence surrounding towns and sites
Villeneuve-lès-Avignon: A beautiful town just across the river from Avignon, with the impressive Fort Saint-André and the Tour Philippe-le-Bel.
Fontaine de Vaucluse: A picturesque village famous for its dramatic spring, the source of the Sorgue River.
Gordes: One of the most famous and beautiful “perched villages” of the Luberon, with a stunning view and a Renaissance castle.
Roussillon: A village known for its vibrant ochre cliffs and quarries, which provide a striking contrast to the green Provençal landscape.
L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue: A town famous for its antique shops and the picturesque Sorgue River running through it, with numerous waterwheels.
Le Pont du Gard: A spectacular Roman aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved Roman structures in France.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape: A renowned wine region known for its powerful red wines. Visit the ruins of the papal castle and a local winery for a tasting.
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: A charming town with a rich history, known for its Roman ruins and for being the place where Van Gogh lived for a year.
Les Baux-de-Provence: A medieval fortress and village perched on a rock spur, offering incredible views of the Alpilles mountains.
The Lavender Fields of Provence: During late spring and early summer, the stunning purple lavender fields are a key attraction in the countryside around Avignon.
Activities & Experiences
Explore the Papal Palace (Palais des Papes): Wander through the largest Gothic palace in the world, once the seat of the Catholic Church. Take a guided tour to learn about its rich history and explore the grand halls, chapels, and private apartments.
Walk Across the Pont d’Avignon: Visit the legendary medieval bridge, officially known as the Pont Saint-Bénézet. While only four arches remain, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and an iconic symbol of the city. Don’t forget to sing the famous song!
Stroll Through the Rocher des Doms Garden: Climb to the top of the “Rocher des Doms,” a rocky outcrop next to the Papal Palace. This beautiful public garden offers a peaceful escape and a breathtaking panoramic view of the Rhône River, the bridge, and the surrounding countryside.
Go on a Wine Tasting Tour in Châteauneuf-du-Pape: The famous wine region of Châteauneuf-du-Pape is just a short drive from Avignon. Many local tour companies offer excursions that include a visit to vineyards, a wine cellar tour, and a tasting session.
Take a Cooking Class for Provençal Cuisine: Learn to prepare classic dishes of the Provence region, such as ratatouille, bouillabaisse, or a tian of vegetables. Several local culinary schools offer hands-on classes for all skill levels.
Visit the Les Halles d’Avignon Market: Immerse yourself in the local food scene at this bustling indoor market. Explore the stalls selling fresh produce, cheeses, olives, and other Provençal specialties. It’s the perfect place to grab a local lunch or buy picnic supplies.
Explore the Petit Palais Museum: Located next to the Papal Palace, this museum is a must-visit for art lovers. It houses a remarkable collection of Italian and Avignon school paintings from the Middle Ages and the early Renaissance.
Kayak or Paddleboard on the Sorgue River: Just outside Avignon, the tranquil Sorgue River offers a refreshing activity. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard and glide through the clear waters, passing by charming villages and lush greenery.
Cycle the Via Rhôna Greenway: Rent a bike and explore a section of this scenic cycling route that follows the Rhône River. You can ride south towards Arles or north towards Orange, enjoying the beautiful landscapes of the Vaucluse region.
Attend the Avignon Festival: If visiting in July, don’t miss the world-renowned Avignon Festival, one of the most important theater festivals in the world. The city’s streets, squares, and historic sites transform into a vibrant stage for thousands of performances.
Explore the Antique Dealers District (Rue des Teinturiers): Stroll down this charming cobblestone street, known for its antique shops, art galleries, and historic waterwheels. It’s a picturesque area perfect for a leisurely walk.
Local Tips & Transport
Walking is Best: Avignon’s historic center, enclosed within its medieval ramparts, is compact and entirely walkable. The main sights like the Papal Palace, the bridge, and the main squares are all within easy reach of each other.
Public Transport: Avignon has a public bus network (Orizo) that is useful for getting to the suburbs or outer areas of the city. There is also a tramway line that connects the city center to the Avignon TGV train station.
Bikes: Avignon is a bike-friendly city. You can use the public bike-sharing service, Vélopop’, or rent a bike from a local shop to explore the city and the surrounding countryside. The flat terrain along the Rhône River makes for easy cycling.
Car is Recommended for the Wider Region: To truly explore the scenic landscapes, lavender fields, and hilltop villages of Provence, a rental car is the most flexible and convenient option. Be prepared for narrow, winding roads in the smaller villages.
From the Train Stations: Avignon has two train stations. The central station, Gare d’Avignon Centre, is located just outside the city walls. The high-speed train station, Gare d’Avignon TGV, is a few kilometers away. A shuttle bus (navette) and local trains connect the two stations frequently.
Parking: If you are arriving by car, it is highly recommended to park in one of the paid car parks just outside the city walls. Driving within the historic center is difficult due to narrow, one-way streets.
Dining Times: Lunch is typically from 12 PM to 2 PM, and dinner is usually from 7 PM or 7:30 PM onwards. Many restaurants will close between these times. It is advisable to book a reservation for dinner, especially during the high season.
Embrace the Provençal Market Culture: Markets are a cornerstone of life in Provence. The Les Halles market is a daily staple, but don’t miss the smaller weekly markets in surrounding villages like Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (famous for antiques) and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.
Papal Palace Audio Guide: The Papal Palace is a vast and largely unfurnished structure. To truly appreciate its history and architecture, it is highly recommended to rent the HistoPad, an interactive tablet that offers a fascinating augmented reality experience.
Hidden Gems:
- Place de l’Horloge: While the main square is busy, take a moment to admire the ornate clock tower and the surrounding buildings. It’s a great place for people-watching.
- The Mianes: A quiet, medieval alleyway that offers a glimpse into the city’s past. It’s a peaceful alternative to the bustling main streets.
- Jardin de la Mirande: A hidden garden located at the foot of the Papal Palace. It’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy views of the Palace from a different angle.
- Rue des Teinturiers: This street with its waterwheels and plane trees is a beautifully atmospheric part of the city. It’s a little off the main tourist track and has a number of charming shops and cafes.
Language: While English is spoken in many tourist areas, learning a few basic French phrases like Bonjour (hello), Merci (thank you), and S’il vous plaît (please) will be appreciated by the locals.
Top Restaurants
L’Agape [$30-$50] – A cozy bistro near the Palais des Papes with a menu that changes daily, focusing on fresh, seasonal Provençal cuisine.
La Mirande [$60-$100] – A restaurant in the heart of Avignon’s old town, offering classic Provençal dishes with a refined touch and a beautiful, historic setting.
Le 46 [$30-$50] – This popular Avignon spot offers a seasonal menu of traditional French and Provençal dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Au Pied de la Sorgue [$30-$50] – Located in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, this riverside restaurant serves classic Provençal cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
La Maison du Corbeau [$35-$60] – A charming restaurant in the heart of Avignon, known for its traditional French cuisine and welcoming ambiance.
Restaurant L’Essentiel [$40-$70] – This restaurant in Avignon offers a menu of refined, traditional French dishes with a strong focus on quality products.
Les Remparts [$40-$70] – Located in the Hotel Europe in Avignon, this classic restaurant is known for its traditional cuisine and elegant setting.
Le Prieuré [$75-$150] – An elegant restaurant in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, offering classic Provençal cuisine in a beautiful garden setting.
La Tonnelle [$30-$50] – A simple, authentic restaurant in Avignon’s old town, serving a range of traditional Provençal dishes at a good price.
Le Gout du Jour [$30-$50] – A small, intimate bistro in Avignon that offers a daily-changing menu of fresh, seasonal dishes, popular with locals.
La Fourchette [$35-$60] – A historic institution in Avignon, this traditional restaurant is known for its hearty French cuisine and bustling atmosphere.
Le Côté Cour [$40-$70] – A charming restaurant with a beautiful courtyard in Avignon, serving a menu of classic dishes with a Provençal twist.
La Cuisine de Papa [$25-$40] – This unassuming place in Avignon offers simple, authentic home-style cooking, perfect for a no-frills meal.
Le Pistou [$30-$50] – A small, traditional restaurant in the center of Avignon, known for its hearty Provençal stews and friendly service.
L’Epicerie [$25-$40] – A popular spot in Avignon that serves simple and delicious homemade dishes in a laid-back, rustic setting.
Le Brise-Goulet [$35-$55] – Located in Avignon’s historic center, this restaurant is known for its traditional French cuisine and warm, intimate atmosphere.
Le Boeuf à la Mode [$30-$50] – A classic steakhouse in Avignon that has been serving quality meat dishes for decades, a favorite among carnivores.
Avenio [$40-$60] – A modern bistro in Avignon that puts a creative and refined twist on Provençal flavors, with a focus on seasonal products.
Le Vintag’ Bar [$30-$50] – More than just a wine bar, this spot in Avignon offers a creative and modern menu of tapas and small plates to pair with an extensive wine list.
Le Carré des Saveurs [$40-$60] – A restaurant in Avignon that blends traditional French cuisine with modern techniques and unexpected flavor combinations.
La Table de Sorgues [$40-$70] – A contemporary restaurant near Avignon in Sorgues, known for its creative menu and beautiful presentation.
Fou de Fafa [$40-$60] – This restaurant in Avignon offers a refined and modern take on classic French bistro fare, with excellent service.
Hiely Lucullus [$50-$80] – A long-standing restaurant in Avignon known for its modern and inventive interpretations of classic Provençal dishes.
L’Un des Sens [$40-$60] – A small and creative restaurant in Avignon that offers a daily-changing menu based on the freshest market ingredients.
Cuit Cuit [$35-$55] – A small, charming bistro in Avignon that offers a fresh and modern take on classic dishes, popular for its delicious flavors.
La Cantine d’Avignon [$30-$50] – This contemporary restaurant in Avignon’s city center offers a modern, healthy take on French cuisine.
Le Bocal [$35-$60] – A modern spot near the Palais des Papes with a unique menu that reinterprets classic dishes using contemporary techniques.
L’Epicurien [$40-$70] – A creative and inventive restaurant in Avignon, known for its high-quality ingredients and beautiful, artistic presentation.
Christian Étienne [$80-$150] – A highly-acclaimed restaurant in Avignon with stunning views of the city, offering refined, creative cuisine and a memorable dining experience.
La Vieille Fontaine [$70-$120] – Located in a beautiful courtyard, this elegant restaurant in Avignon offers sophisticated, gourmet cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal products.
Restaurant Sevin [$60-$100] – A fine dining establishment in Avignon known for its creative and contemporary cuisine, blending French tradition with modern flair.
Le Cul de Poule [$60-$90] – An exceptional restaurant in Avignon’s city center, offering refined cuisine and a meticulously curated wine list.
Mickaël Féval [$70-$120] – A Michelin-starred restaurant in Avignon, known for its refined and inventive cuisine that honors the flavors of Provence.
L’Oustau de Baumanière [$150-$250] – A three-Michelin-starred institution in Les Baux-de-Provence, offering a world-class gastronomic experience in an idyllic setting.
La Maison de la Tour [$70-$120] – An elegant restaurant in Avignon, known for its exceptional French cuisine and refined, intimate atmosphere.
Le Jardin du Quai [$60-$90] – Located in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, this beautiful restaurant with a garden offers a refined, creative menu that changes with the seasons.
Hôtel d’Europe [$80-$150] – An elegant and historic restaurant in Avignon, offering a high-end dining experience with classic French cuisine.
Le Petit Gault [$20-$35] – A popular spot in Avignon for a quick, casual lunch, known for its creative sandwiches and homemade soups.
La Civette du Palais [$20-$35] – A lively wine bar in Avignon that serves simple and delicious platters of cheese and charcuterie, perfect for a casual evening.
Les Halles d’Avignon [$15-$30] – Not a single restaurant, but a covered market with a variety of food stalls and small counters, perfect for a casual, authentic Provençal food experience.
Chez Mimosa [$25-$40] – A small and authentic bistro in Avignon’s old town, offering a limited but delicious menu of classic dishes.
Ginette et Marcel [$20-$35] – A quirky and popular bistro in Avignon, known for its creative open-faced sandwiches (tartines) and friendly atmosphere.
Au Jardin du Sommelier [$25-$40] – A charming wine bar and bistro in Avignon, offering a great selection of local wines and simple, delicious Provençal tapas.
Le Petit Comptoir [$25-$40] – A popular spot in Avignon known for its simple, traditional French cuisine and a friendly, unpretentious vibe.
Le Mas de la Brune [$60-$100] – A sophisticated restaurant in Eygalières, offering refined Provençal cuisine in a stunning rural setting.
Le Bistrot du Paradou [$50-$80] – A legendary and rustic bistro near Les Baux-de-Provence, known for its famous fixed menu and authentic, traditional cooking.
Auberge de Tavel [$40-$70] – A delightful restaurant in the famous wine village of Tavel, known for its traditional French cuisine and excellent wine pairings.
La Table d’Alain [$40-$70] – A renowned restaurant in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, offering a menu that changes daily, based on fresh, local ingredients.
Le Mas Tourteron [$60-$100] – A refined restaurant in Gordes with a beautiful terrace, known for its creative and elegant Provençal cuisine.
La Bastide de Gordes [$100-$180] – A magnificent hotel and restaurant in Gordes, offering a spectacular dining experience with panoramic views of the Luberon Valley.
Le Saint-Hubert [$30-$50] – A traditional restaurant in the heart of Gordes, offering classic Provençal dishes in a charming village setting.
Restaurant l’Hôtel d’Arles [$40-$60] – A beautiful restaurant in Arles with a focus on fresh, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
La Bergerie [$40-$60] – A charming restaurant in Les Baux-de-Provence, known for its traditional Provençal dishes and rustic, welcoming atmosphere.
Le Mas de Boudan [$60-$100] – A refined restaurant in the countryside near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, offering a sophisticated take on classic Provençal dishes.
Restaurant Lou Calen [$35-$60] – A lovely restaurant in the charming village of Oppède-le-Vieux, known for its traditional Provençal cuisine.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
L’O de la Bouche: A stylish wine and cocktail bar located in the heart of Avignon, near the Palais des Papes. This chic spot offers a refined selection of local wines and classic cocktails in a cozy, intimate setting.
Le 46: Found in the city center of Avignon, this cocktail bar and restaurant offers a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere. They specialize in creative and well-balanced cocktails, perfect for a pre-dinner drink.
Le Carré d’Avignon: Situated in a lively square in Avignon, this bar provides a more casual yet vibrant atmosphere. It’s a great place to enjoy a classic cocktail on their terrace while soaking up the local buzz.
Le Bar à Vins (Hotel d’Europe): Located within the prestigious Hotel d’Europe, a historic hotel in Avignon’s city center, this bar offers a luxurious and traditional setting. It’s known for its extensive wine list and expertly crafted cocktails.
Le Delirium: Found just outside the main city walls of Avignon, this bar has a relaxed and friendly vibe. They offer a good selection of spirits and a laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular spot for locals.
Le P’tit Bar: A quaint and cozy bar tucked away on a side street in Avignon, it’s known for its friendly service and a good range of classic cocktails. It’s a great little hideaway for a quiet drink.
Le Carré: Another establishment with the same name, this one in the town of Carpentras, known for its lively and friendly atmosphere. It’s a bit of a drive from Avignon but a great local spot for a fun night out.
Les Passagers du Zinc: Located in the nearby town of Orange, this bar offers a unique and artsy vibe. It’s a popular spot for both drinks and live music, attracting a diverse crowd.
L’Endroit: A stylish lounge bar in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, just across the river from Avignon. It’s a chic spot offering a more modern and upscale experience with a beautiful view of the city.
Le Vintage: Found in Avignon’s city center, this bar lives up to its name with a retro-inspired interior and a cool, laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great place to enjoy a cocktail while listening to some classic tunes.
Le Vingt-Quatre: A popular bar in Avignon with a very lively student atmosphere. It’s known for its friendly prices and vibrant energy, especially on weekends.
L’Atypik Bar: This bar is located in the heart of Avignon and offers a relaxed, casual setting. It’s a good spot to grab a drink with friends before heading out for the night.
La Civette: A classic French bar and brasserie near the central train station in Avignon. While it’s more of a traditional pub, it serves a wide variety of drinks and is a great starting point for a night in the city.
L’Industrie: One of the most popular nightclubs in Avignon, located in the city center. It’s known for its state-of-the-art sound system and light shows, playing a mix of commercial hits and electronic music.
Le Bokao’s: A large and well-known nightclub just outside of Avignon. It features multiple rooms with different music genres, from reggaeton to house, and is a major destination for nightlife in the region.
L’Espace Club: Located in a converted warehouse on the outskirts of Avignon, this club hosts some of the biggest DJ nights in the region, focusing on techno and electronic music.
Le Privilège: A nightclub in Avignon’s city center with a more intimate and chic atmosphere. It’s a good choice for those who prefer a smaller, more exclusive vibe.
Les Ambassadeurs: A long-standing club in Avignon, known for its diverse music selection and lively atmosphere. It’s a local favorite, especially on weekends.
Le Météor Club: A trendy and modern club in the heart of Avignon, attracting a young and energetic crowd. It’s known for its themed parties and popular music.
Le M.A.T. (Maison des Arts et de la Musique): While not a traditional nightclub, this venue in Avignon frequently hosts late-night parties and concerts with a focus on alternative and underground music.
Le Village: A nightclub located near the Pontet area, just north of Avignon. It’s a large venue with a lively atmosphere, popular for its mainstream music and fun-loving crowd.
Le Barouf Club: A smaller but very popular club in Avignon known for its friendly and unpretentious atmosphere. It’s a great place to dance and have fun without the high-end nightclub feel.
L’Usine: Another club in the industrial area of Avignon, known for hosting electronic and techno events. It’s a go-to spot for those seeking a more intense, clubbing experience.
Le Club 83: A nightclub located in the nearby town of Pernes-les-Fontaines. It’s a local favorite for its vibrant dance floor and a mix of popular and classic hits.
Le Mas: An open-air club located in the countryside near Avignon, popular during the summer months. It offers a unique party experience under the stars.
L’Entracte: A cozy and welcoming nightclub in Avignon’s city center, offering a mix of music and a lively dance floor, perfect for a spontaneous night out.