Things To Do
in Avignon
Avignon, in the heart of Provence along the Rhône, sits behind ancient walls and a skyline crowned by the Papal Palace. Its well-preserved medieval center is woven with sunlit lanes, markets, and cafés where the scent of lavender lingers. Iconic sights like the Pont d'Avignon and the city’s historic ramparts frame a culture of art, food, and festivals.
Each season brings a different mood—from canal-side sunsets to the roar of the Festival d’Avignon—making the city feel timeless.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a visit to the Palais des Papes, one of the largest Gothic structures in Europe. Stroll around its majestic courtyard, absorbing the grandeur of the architecture. Don't forget to visit the Chartreuse du Val de Bénédicte, a tranquil monastic complex nearby.
Grab a light lunch at a local café and then explore the charming streets of Avignon, taking in the unique shops and boutiques. Visit the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet, which offers stunning views of the Rhône River. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting a nearby market to sample some regional delicacies.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a traditional Provençal restaurant, savoring dishes infused with local herbs. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the ramparts, admiring the illuminated city. Conclude the day with a lively local concert or theater performance for a taste of Avignon's vibrant arts scene.
Embark on a scenic drive to the Luberon Valley, known for its picturesque villages and lavender fields. Stop in the charming village of Gordes, where you can enjoy the stunning hilltop views. Take a moment to explore the local art galleries before heading to your next destination.
Continue to Roussillon, famous for its ochre cliffs and vibrant colors. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local bistro, then stroll through the heart of the village, marveling at the unique red-hued buildings. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike through the Sentier des Ocres for breathtaking landscapes.
Return to Avignon to unwind after a day of exploration. Treat yourself to a gourmet dinner, following it up with a glass of local wine at a cozy wine bar. Spend your evening reflecting on the views and experiences of the day under the starry Provençal sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-6 |
| 🧀Local cheese and wine tasting | $10-25 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket | $1.5-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich UNESCO-listed historic center with iconic landmarks
- Excellent Provencal cuisine and nearby wine country
- Compact, walkable city with frequent cultural events and markets
- Summer heat can be intense and crowds peak around major festivals
- Some restaurants and sights can be pricey, especially near major attractions
- Limited off-season nightlife compared to larger cities
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is...?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un restaurant ?" - Could you recommend a restaurant?
Places to Visit in Avignon
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic bridge framing the Rhône with the Papal Palace in the background makes for cinematic river shots, especially at dawn or golden hour.
A dramatic medieval fortress and square perfect for architectural photography and people-watching.
A terraced garden overlooking the city and river; superb vantage points for sweeping cityscapes.
An atmospheric canal-side street with old waterwheels and moored boats—great for moody, textured photos.
A lively square with fountains, cafés, and arcaded façades—ideal for candid street photography.
Broad riverbank views across the Rhône; perfect for sunset panoramas and wide-angled shots.
Food in Avignon
Avignon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A colorful stewed medley of zucchini, eggplant, peppers, tomatoes, and herbs; a staple of Provençal cuisine.
Must-Try!
A garlicky vegetable soup finished with pistou (basil, garlic, olive oil) and often topped with grated cheese.
Garlic mayonnaise served with boiled vegetables, potatoes, and cod or anchovy; a classic Provencal plate often enjoyed on warm days.
A hearty meat-and-rillet preparation typical of the region, usually shaped into croquettes and cooked until crisp.
Olive paste blended with capers and anchovies, great on bread or as a garnish with regional dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant indoor market offering fish, cheese, fresh produce, pastries, and ready-to-eat bites; perfect for a midday bite.
Markets and stalls throughout the city offer socca (chickpea pancake), fougasse, and olives—great for a quick, flavorful snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin conversations with a courteous 'Bonjour' (morning) or 'Bonsoir' (evening). A handshake is common; in informal settings friends may kiss on the cheek, though this varies by age and context.
Eat slowly, keep hands visible (not on laps), and say please and thank you ('s'il vous plaît' and 'merci'). When in markets, bartering kindly is accepted in some small stalls.
Wine is often served with meals; savor and do not rush. Toasts are common but not loud; enjoy conversations without interrupting others.
Safety
Tipping in Avignon
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, a service charge (service compris) is often included in restaurant bills. If not included, rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is customary.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted, including contactless. Cash is handy for markets and small cafés; small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days and lively evenings with outdoor bars and the Festival d'Avignon (July). Stay hydrated, start early for sightseeing, and enjoy riverside dining to beat the heat.
Mild days with fewer crowds; grape harvest season adds wine-tue vibes in nearby vineyards and pleasant walking weather.
Cool but usually mild days; occasional rain. Great time to explore museums and cafés with fewer lines; festive lights in December brighten the evenings.
Blossoms and greens return; pleasant temperatures for walking tours and markets; ideal for photography with softer light.
Avignon at Night
Hiking in Avignon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A famed nearby peak with challenging hiking routes and panoramic Alpine-like views; connect via a longer day trip from Avignon.
Ridge-lined hills with scenic trails and vineyard scenery; great for moderate day hikes.
Cavernous, dramatic canyon with dramatic switchbacks and sweeping landscapes; ideal for a day hike or scenic drive plus footpaths.
Airports
How to reach Avignon by plane.
Small regional airport just outside Avignon with limited domestic and European flights; easy taxi or shuttle access to the city.
Large international hub about 100–120 km from Avignon; frequent regional and international connections; car rental and rail options available for onward travel.
Regional airport near Nîmes offering limited routes; convenient for certain low-cost connections and to reach the broader region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The University of Avignon and nearby campuses attract a youthful, international student presence.
Global travelers visit year-round, with peak tourist seasons in spring and summer for markets, festivals, and theaters.
Residents who enjoy river strolls, markets, and weekend cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Provence is renowned for scenic cycling routes and road races; the countryside around Avignon is popular for day trips.
Local clubs and matches attract sports fans; community events often align with festival seasons.
A favorite pastime in public squares and parks; easy social activity for all ages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Avignon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are plentiful in Provençal markets and bistros; look for ratatouille, pistou, salads, and vegetable-forward plates. When dining out, ask for no meat-based broths and request olive oil-based dressings to keep meals lighter.