Things To Do
in Avignon
Avignon is a charming city located in southeastern France, known for its rich history and stunning architecture. The city is famous for its well-preserved medieval ramparts that surround the old town, offering picturesque views of the RhĂŽne River. Avignon is also home to the Palais des Papes, a grand medieval palace that served as the residence of the popes in the 14th century.
Visitors can explore the narrow cobblestone streets, historic squares, and vibrant markets that make Avignon a popular destination for tourists.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- â Coffee: $2 - $4
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in the world. Enjoy a stroll around the surrounding gardens and appreciate the stunning architecture.
Head to the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet and learn about its intriguing history. Afterwards, grab lunch at a local café and try traditional Provençal cuisine.
Wander through the charming streets of the old town as the sun sets. Choose a cozy restaurant for dinner and indulge in local wines.
Visit the Avignon Museum of Contemporary Art to appreciate modern artistic expressions. Spend time exploring the nearby antique shops and artisan boutiques.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch in a bistro and then take a guided walking tour to learn about the rich history of Avignon. This will provide you with fascinating insights about its past.
Attend a performance at the Festival d'Avignon if youâre there in July. Otherwise, relax at a wine bar and savor a local vintage.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural heritage, including the famous Palais des Papes and the annual theater festival.
- Beautiful landscapes along the RhĂŽne River and close proximity to Provence's stunning countryside.
- Vibrant local markets and exquisite French cuisine, offering a taste of authentic regional flavors.
- Mild Mediterranean climate, making it pleasant to visit year-round.
- Strong community feel with friendly locals and a range of activities for tourists and residents.
- Popular tourist destination, which can lead to crowded streets and higher prices during peak seasons.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities, making it necessary to own a car for easier access to surrounding areas.
- Some areas may lack modern amenities and infrastructure, which could be a concern for some visitors.
- Language barrier, as not everyone speaks English fluently, potentially making communication challenging.
- Tourist attractions may not be open year-round, thus limiting options during off-peak seasons.
Best Activities in Avignon
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historical Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about the history of the popes in Avignon.
Take a walk or cycle along the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet, also known as the Pont d'Avignon, and enjoy the scenic views of the RhÎne River.
Visit the Rocher des Doms park for a peaceful outdoor experience with panoramic views of Avignon and the surrounding area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Avignon with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Avignon
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic monument offering panoramic views of Avignon and the RhĂŽne River.
A famous bridge with stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
A hilltop park providing breathtaking views of Avignon and the surrounding countryside.
Food in Avignon
Avignon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Provençal dish made with tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, onions, and bell peppers, cooked to perfection with aromatic herbs. Best enjoyed at La Fourchette restaurant.
Must-Try!
A traditional fish stew originating from Marseille, but widely enjoyed in Avignon. Stop by Chez Serge for an authentic bouillabaisse experience.
A savory tart topped with caramelized onions, anchovies, and black olives, offering a delightful blend of sweet and salty flavors. Visit Bistrot Balthazar for a delicious serving.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Avignon better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the most renowned food markets in Avignon, offering a wide array of fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and local delicacies. Don't miss the chance to sample Socca, a savory chickpea pancake, from the market stalls.
A bustling market square where you can savor authentic street food such as Panisses (chickpea fritters) and Fougasse (a type of Provençal bread).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Avignon, it is respectful to address people using the formal 'vous' instead of the informal 'tu' until you are invited to use the less formal form.
When greeting someone in Avignon, it is common to shake hands, particularly in formal settings, and customary to exchange 'bonjour' (good morning) or 'bonsoir' (good evening) based on the time of day.
When dining in Avignon, it is polite to wait until the host gestures or assigns seats before sitting down at the table, and it is customary to keep your hands visible throughout the meal, resting them on the table.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Avignon with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Avignon
Ensure a smooth experience
In Avignon, France, tipping is not obligatory as service charges are usually included in the bill. However, it is customary to round up the bill or leave a small amount of change as a token of appreciation for good service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Avignon, especially in restaurants, hotels, and major stores. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are also readily available for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Avignon.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a lovely time to visit Avignon, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. This is also the season for various festivals and events such as the Avignon Jazz Festival and the Feast of St. John.
Avignon is bustling with activity during the summer months, with warm weather and long daylight hours. This is the peak tourist season, with the famous Avignon Theatre Festival taking place in July.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a great time to visit Avignon. The fall foliage is beautiful, and there are cultural events like the Avignon Motor Festival and the Les Hivernales dance festival.
Winter in Avignon is relatively quiet, with cooler temperatures and occasional mistral winds. While some tourist attractions may have reduced hours, the city takes on a peaceful charm and you can enjoy the Christmas markets and festivities.
Avignon at Night
Hiking in Avignon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A iconic mountain in Provence, known for its challenging hikes and stunning panoramic views.
A beautiful mountain range with various trails offering breathtaking views and diverse landscapes.
A spectacular river gorge with numerous hiking paths and opportunities for canoeing and exploring.
A charming village with trails that lead to the source of the Sorgue River and surrounding natural beauty.
A regional natural park with a variety of trails, featuring beautiful views, charming villages, and rich biodiversity.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Avignon through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Avignon by plane.
The largest international airport near Avignon, located approximately 70 km to the south.
An international airport located about 50 km to the southwest of Avignon.
An international airport located approximately 95 km to the west of Avignon.
A major international airport located about 200 km to the southeast of Avignon.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population, comprising individuals born in France or holding French citizenship.
A significant community mainly originating from countries such as Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia.
Includes immigrants and their descendants from countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Consists of residents from other European countries, including Italy, Spain, and Portugal.
This group includes individuals with origins from various Asian nations.
A minority group that traditionally has a nomadic lifestyle, originating from northern India.
Includes smaller populations from various countries outside of Europe and Africa.
The Soul of Avignon
Discover the essence of Avignon through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Avignon, with numerous clubs and youth academies participating in local and regional leagues.
Rugby is widely played and followed in Avignon, with a strong local club that competes in national competitions, attracting many fans.
Basketball has a significant following in Avignon, with various teams for different age groups and competitive leagues.
Cycling is popular in and around Avignon, especially with the city's scenic routes and proximity to beautiful landscapes ideal for cyclists.
Tennis is a favored sport in Avignon, with several clubs and facilities available for both recreational and competitive players.
Running and jogging are popular activities, with many residents participating in local events and races throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Avignon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Avignon's food scene has embraced vegetarian and vegan lifestyles, with many restaurants offering innovative plant-based dishes. Look out for establishments like Le Petit Gourmand and Fou de Fafa for an array of vegetarian and vegan choices.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can dine with ease in Avignon, as several eateries provide gluten-free alternatives. La Fourchette and Restaurant Christian Etienne are known for their gluten-free offerings, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Avignon with these cultural adventures.
