Avignon combines papal grandeur, Provençal life, festival energy and easy access to wine regions, Roman monuments and beautiful villages – all in a city that feels both historic and alive.
A city shaped by papal history
Avignon rose to prominence in the 14th century when it became the centre of the Catholic Church. Between 1309 and 1377, a succession of popes lived here rather than in Rome, during a period commonly known as the Avignon Papacy. This era made the city one of Europe’s most important religious and political centres.
To demonstrate their power, the popes commissioned the vast Palais des Papes, one of Europe’s largest Gothic palaces. Together with the city walls and historic centre, it forms a key part of the heritage that earned Avignon a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
History is visible everywhere – in the walls, squares, churches and monumental buildings. Avignon offers far more than beautiful façades; it gives visitors a sense of moving through one of the most dramatic chapters in European history.
Palais des Papes and Pont d’Avignon
Avignon’s best-known landmark is undoubtedly Palais des Papes. This vast 14th-century palace contains grand halls, chapels, courtyards and private apartments that reveal the scale and splendour of the papacy during this period. The area around the palace also offers sweeping views across the Rhône and the Provençal landscape.
Equally iconic is Pont d’Avignon, or Pont Saint-Bénézet, the famous bridge that once crossed the river. Only part of the original structure survives today, but it remains one of the city’s best-known symbols and a highlight for visitors exploring the Rhône waterfront.
Together, these two sights provide the perfect introduction to Avignon: one tells a story of power, faith and medieval splendour, while the other reflects the city’s position on the Rhône and its long history as a trading and meeting point in southern France.
The old town, culture and the flavours of Provence
Avignon’s old town is enclosed by nearly 4.3 kilometres of medieval walls. Inside, you will find lively squares such as Place de l’Horloge, picturesque streets including Rue des Teinturiers, and a close-knit network of small shops, cafés and restaurants that gives the city its distinctive, intimate atmosphere.
Avignon is also one of France’s leading cultural cities. Every July, performances, concerts and art fill the city during the celebrated Festival d’Avignon, when squares, courtyards and historic buildings become living stages. The rest of the year is quieter, but the cultural scene remains strong.
Avignon lies at the heart of a region rich in Provençal produce. Sample classics such as ratatouille, tapenade and bouillabaisse, while using the city as an excellent base for wine tasting in the Rhône Valley and excursions to Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
Day trips and the best time to visit
Avignon’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring southern France. Wine regions, Roman monuments and some of Provence’s most atmospheric cities and landscapes are all within easy reach. Popular excursions include Arles, Nîmes, the Luberon, Pont du Gard and Uzès.
Spring and early summer are ideal for city walks and day trips in comfortable temperatures, while July is best for visitors who want to experience Avignon at its liveliest during the festival. Late summer and autumn are particularly rewarding for wine experiences and quieter outings across the region.
Whether you come for history, culture, food or wine, Avignon offers an authentic taste of Provence. It can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace or used as a base for a varied itinerary through one of France’s most beautiful regions.
Four days in and around Avignon
This itinerary gives you four rewarding days with Avignon as your base, combining papal history, city walks, markets, wine experiences and day trips to some of Provence’s most atmospheric places.
Avignon’s historic centre
Begin at Place du Palais and allow plenty of time to explore Palais des Papes before continuing to the famous Pont d’Avignon. End the day by wandering through the old town within the walls and enjoying dinner with classic Provençal flavours.
- Visit Palais des Papes and Place du Palais
- Walk out to Pont d’Avignon and enjoy the views across the Rhône
- End the day in the old town with cafés and a Provençal dinner
Culture, parks and local flavours
This is an ideal day for experiencing Avignon at a gentler pace. Start with the views from Rocher des Doms, explore the city’s smaller streets and squares, then spend the afternoon at Les Halles d’Avignon tasting cheeses, olives, wine and other Provençal specialities.
- Start the morning at Rocher des Doms with views across the Rhône
- Discover local produce and atmosphere at Les Halles d’Avignon
- Spend the evening in the historic streets around Place de l’Horloge
Wine experiences in Châteauneuf-du-Pape
A short drive from Avignon lies Châteauneuf-du-Pape, one of the Rhône Valley’s most famous wine areas. Visit wine estates, learn about the region’s powerful red wines and combine tastings with lunch in peaceful, beautiful surroundings.
- Visit one or two wine estates for tastings
- Learn about terroir and winemaking traditions in the Rhône Valley
- Finish with views over the vineyards and village life
A day trip to Pont du Gard and Uzès
Spend your final day on a classic excursion to Pont du Gard, the spectacular Roman aqueduct listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Combine it with a visit to Uzès, known for its beautiful squares, small shops and welcoming restaurants.
- See Pont du Gard and learn about Roman engineering
- Stroll through Uzès and enjoy lunch on one of its squares
- Finish the trip at a relaxed pace before returning to Avignon