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Avignon, France

Destination Guide

Avignon

France

Best things to do in Avignon

21 curated attractions in Avignon, France. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

April - June, September - October

Average temp

20°C/68°F

Budget

Mid-range

Safety

Very safe

About Avignon

Avignon is best known for the Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in the world and a symbol of its time as the seat of the Catholic popes in the 14th century. This papal history has left a mark on the city, making it a center for cultural events, especially the renowned Festival d'Avignon, which turns the streets into performance stages each summer. The medieval city walls still encircle the historic center, where you'll find the famous Pont d'Avignon, and a mix of narrow streets filled with cafés and shops. Away from the tourist spots, the Île de la Barthelasse offers a quiet escape with views of the Rhône, making it a popular spot for locals. People come primarily for the history and the arts scene, along with the chance to experience lively festivals in a setting steeped in history.

Who it's for

People who enjoy history, culture, and art will find Avignon appealing. Those looking for a modern city experience, shopping centers, or a whiff of the ocean breeze may be disappointed. It is not a large city, so if you're after urban life, this is not your destination.

Getting around

Public transport: Good

  • The city walls can be walked around in about an hour
  • The Palais des Papes and Pont d'Avignon are both within a ten-minute walk of each other
  • Public transport is reliable and connects the city center to the surrounding areas, including a bus that takes about twenty minutes to reach Sandy Bay
Place de l'Horloge

Place de l'Horloge

Squares & plazas
Eglise Saint Pierre

Eglise Saint Pierre

Churches & cathedrals
Avignon

Avignon

Old towns & historic quarters
Pont Edouard Daladier

Pont Edouard Daladier

Bridges
Rue des Teinturiers

Rue des Teinturiers

Streets & neighbourhoods
Avignon City Walls

Avignon City Walls

Forts & citadels
Île de la Barthelasse

Île de la Barthelasse

Islands
Rocher des Doms

Rocher des Doms

City parks
Musée Calvet

Musée Calvet

Art museums & galleries
Palais des Papes (Popes' Palace)

Palais des Papes (Popes' Palace)

Castles & palaces
Musée Lapidaire

Musée Lapidaire

History museums
Avignon Opera House (Opéra Grand Avignon)

Avignon Opera House (Opéra Grand Avignon)

Theatres & opera houses
Musée Louis Vouland

Musée Louis Vouland

Specialty & quirky museums
Palais du Roure

Palais du Roure

Historic houses & mansions
Musée du Petit Palais

Musée du Petit Palais

Art museums & galleries
Collection Lambert

Collection Lambert

Art museums & galleries
Les Halles d'Avignon (Indoor Market)

Les Halles d'Avignon (Indoor Market)

Food markets & food halls
Le Petit Train Touriste

Le Petit Train Touriste

Cultural
Musée Angladon

Musée Angladon

Art museums & galleries
Bénézet (Pont d'Avignon)

Bénézet (Pont d'Avignon)

Bridges
Hôtel de Ville (City Hall)

Hôtel de Ville (City Hall)

Modern architecture & skyscrapers

Where to eat in Avignon

The places worth planning a meal around.

La Fourchette

La Fourchette

French

★ 4.6 · 844 reviews

Ô Libanais Vernet

Ô Libanais Vernet

Lebanese · $20–$40

★ 4.9 · 554 reviews

Chez Lisette

Chez Lisette

Provençal · $$

★ 3.8 · 549 reviews

Maison de la Tour

Maison de la Tour

French

★ 4.6 · 418 reviews

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