Avignon is a prefecture in the Provence Alpes Cote d’Azur region of Southeastern France. The city sits on the banks of river Rhone and is one of the historic cities in the country. The best things to do in Avignon revolve around exploring history, art, culture, and buildings from the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods.
The city is best known for the Avignon Papacy of the 14th century. Many of the best places to visit in Avignon were built during this period. The Pope fled Rome to escape the conspiracies and corruption.
Then seven consecutive Popes resided in the city, establishing the Avignon Papacy. Owing to this many of the top things to see in Avignon include religious buildings such as Papal residences, churches, chateaus, chapels, cathedrals, and so on.
Although the city had strategic importance for trade owing to rivers Rhone and Durance. Many of the historic Avignon tourist attractions can still be found close to the rivers. While Durance has mostly lost its glory, Rhone still flows strong. The boat tours through Rhone is one of the best experiences for Avignon sightseeing.
Owing to its history, the city has also attracted several artists over the ages. Many of the places to see in Avignon are adorned with paintings, sculptures, frescoes, carvings, and more. The city also has numerous art museums and galleries, which are Avignon attractions in their own right. These exhibit ancient, medieval, Renaissance, modern, and contemporary artworks.
The other aspect of Avignon travel revolves are local culture. This involves exploring markets for locally produced wines, cheeses, handicrafts, and food products. You should also try the local variants of dishes like ratatouille, bouillabaisse, and tarte tatin. of The city is also surrounded by vineyards. You will find numerous places to visit near Avignon for exploring the regional wine-making process and sample a few fine creations.
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Top 23 Tourist Places to Visit in Avignon, France
1. Pont St-Bénezet
This medieval bridge was built between 1177 and 1185. When built it had 22 arches. This bridge now lies in ruins with only 4 arches remaining. Still, it is among the top things to see in Avignon, France.
This is because of its fame and history. It has been the inspiration for the popular song Sur le Pont d’Avignon. You will need about 20 to 30 minutes to admire this historical site when you visit Avignon.
I suggest you should get your Ticket to Pont St-Bénezet in advance.
2. Musée du Petit-Palais
Held in a 14th-century building, this museum is dedicated to artworks from the Renaissance period. It is one of the best things to do in Avignon for art and history admirers.
You will see sculptures and paintings by some of the most renowned artists of the period such as Benozzo Gazzoli, Enguerrand Quarton, Vittore Carpaccio, Josse Lieferinxe, Sandro Botticelli, and many others.
All in all the museum has 325+ paintings and 600+ sculptures. It is also one of the best places to visit in Avignon to admire the architecture. The 14th-century palace is a wonderful structure by itself. You will need at least an hour to explore the palace and the museum.
3. Jardin du Rocher des Doms
This English-style garden is one of the most beautiful Avignon tourist attractions. The garden was built in the 19th century. It has ponds, fountains, statues, cultured gardens, and cafes. You can easily spend 30 to 45 minutes from Avignon travel exploring these gardens.
4. Notre-Dame des Doms Cathedral
This imposing cathedral was built during the 12th century. The cathedral sits next to Palais de Papes and serves as the seat of the Archbishop. It is one of the most magnificent places to see in Avignon.
It primarily exhibits Romanesque-style architecture with Greek and Roman influences. Atop the cathedral’s bell tower is a gilded statue of St. Mary.
The interior exhibits artifacts from various religious and historical artifacts. You will see portraits of Avignon popes and the marble throne used by these popes. It takes an hour to tour this cathedral.
5. Pope’s Palace
Also known as the Palais des Papes and the Papal Palace, this 14th-century palace was the seat of the Avignon Popes. It is the largest Gothic palace in the world and among Avignon’s top attractions. The palace has also been the venue for many historical events.
It is a marvelous structure with magnificent architecture and is adorned with artistic masterpieces. The palace is definitely the highlight of Avignon sightseeing. You will need at least 2 hours to tour this palace.
I suggest you should get your Entry Ticket to Pope’s Palace and Garden in advance.
6. Eglise Saint-Pierre
This small church was built during the 1300s, however, it was built on another 7th-century church. Although small, it is a beautifully designed church owing to its intricate Gothic architecture.
This Avignon tourist attraction is also adorned with images, carvings, paintings, and sculptures. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to tour this church.
7. City Hall
This 14th-century building has served as the city hall since the 19th century. It is one of the most exceptionally designed buildings among things to see in Avignon.
The facade features beautiful carvings, sculptures, and a clock. Take a few minutes to admire the facade from the square before it.
8. Place de l’Horloge
This square is considered the historic heart of the city. It is one of the best places to visit in Avignon for shopping, dining, and leisure. There are numerous shops, cafes, restaurants, and street food joints.
It is also a great place for people-watching. You might also encounter street performers and musicians if you come here during weekends. The square is surrounded by many historic buildings, so it is an ideal spot to begin Avignon sightseeing. You can easily spend a few minutes at this square.
9. St-André Abbey & Gardens
St. Andre Abbey was built during the 10th century. However, the gardens of the abbey have gained more popularity as Avignon attractions than the structure itself.
These were built over several periods and show a blended flair of different horticulture styles. The gardens are designed in Provencal, Tuscan, and Mediterranean styles. It is among the most beautiful things to see in Avignon. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to explore these gardens
10. Musée Louis Vouland
This museum has a vast collection of artworks created during the 17th and 18th centuries. The collection once belonged to industrialist and art collector Louis Vouland.
The museum expanded upon the collection in the later years. It is among Avignon’s top attractions for art admirers. The exhibits include paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, furniture, tapestries, jewelry, and so on. You will need about an hour to tour the museum.
11. Musée Calvet
This museum is housed in an 18th-century mansion, which is one of the most magnificent places to see in Avignon by itself. The collection includes a variety of artworks from different periods and cultures.
You will see Egyptian, Islamic, European, and Asian artworks. The collection also includes artifacts from pre-historic periods and primitive humans.
This is among the top things to do in Avignon if are interested in art or history. You will need at least 2 hours to tour this museum.
12. Collection Lambert
This museum exhibits the works of contemporary artworks collected by Yvon Lambert, a famous art dealer. The collection features more than 550 works of contemporary art created by renowned artists such as Alice Anderson, Jason Dodge, Mircea Cantor, Tsuyoshi Ozawa, and many others. You will need an hour to tour this museum when you visit Avignon.
13. Musée Lapidaire
This museum is part of the Jesuit College Chapel, a classical baroque-style structure. It is an archeological museum that exhibits findings from different periods, regions, and cultures.
You will see artifacts hailing from the pre-historic period, Egypt, Greece, Rome, Ancient Etruscan, and so on. You will need at least 2 hours from Avignon travel to tour this museum.
14. Musée Angladon
This museum exhibits the art collection of Jacques Doucet, the renowned art patron. It is held in Doucet’s house and also sheds light on his life. The collection includes works by renowned masters such as Van Gogh, Picasso, Monet, Daumier, Degas, and many others.
It is among the most impressive places to see in Avignon owing to this collection. You need about an hour to tour this museum.
15. Eglise Saint-Didier
This 12th-century church sits at the heart of the city. Despite its age, the structure still retains the original layout. This church is known among Avignon tourist attractions for its Gothic architecture and exquisitely designed interior.
You will see paintings of Simon de Chalons and the altar designed by Francesco Laurana. You will need 30 to 45 minutes from Avignon sightseeing to explore this church.
16. Les Halles Market
Dating back to 1859, this market is the best place to visit in Avignon to experience various flavours of the city’s culture, metaphorically and literally.
The market sells handicraft items, fresh produce, food products, and street food. You can easily spend an hour or so exploring the market.
17. Musée Requien
This natural history museum is one of the most fun things to do in Avignon for families. It covers various fields of natural sciences such as botany, zoology, geology, paleontology, entomology, and so on. You can easily spend an hour for learning and enjoying this museum.
18. Ile de la Barthelasse
This is the largest river island in Europe and is home to many Avignon attractions. However, it is better known for its leisure activities. This includes hiking, cycling, boating, and so on.
It is a place for outdoor things to do around Avignon and you also get to enjoy a boat tour on your way to the island. You can easily spend a couple of hours enjoying the serenity of Ile de la Barthelasse.
19. Grottes de Thouzon
This underground cave system is quite fascinating. It has developed over millions of years creating interesting rock formations in a variety of colours.
The caves also have its own unique ecosystem of ponds, lakes, streams, insects, and small animals. It is among the best things to do near Avignon if you are looking for an exploratory adventure. You will need 2 to 3 hours to explore these caves.
20. Brotte Wine Museum
This museum takes a deep dive into the various ways of making wines. This includes ancient, traditional, and modern. The museum especially focuses on the regional variants.
It is also among the best places to visit near Avignon for a wine-tasting session. You can try out several varieties at different stages of the process. You will need at least 2 hours for this museum.
I suggest you should get your Entrance Ticket to Brotte Wine Museum in advance.
21. Luberon Village
This wonderful village is built atop a hill. The closer you get to the top of the hill, the further you go in the past. The village is considered one of the most beautiful ones in the country owing to its charming vibes, winding paths, historical structures, colorful buildings, and more. You need at least half a day from Avignon travel to make a trip to this village.
I suggest you should book a Half Day Tour to Luberon Village in advance.
22. Pont du Gard
This Roman aqueduct bridge dates back to the 1st century A.D. It still stands strong to this day as a testament to the genius of Roman architecture and engineering.
This tourist attraction is only 30 minutes away from the city. It is one of the most important historical places to visit near Avignon and is included among UNESCO World Heritage sites. You will need about an hour or more to make the trip to visit this attraction.
I suggest you should get your Entry Ticket to Pont du Gard in advance. And also you should book a Full Day Tour of Provence from Avignon to visit Pont du Gard.
23. Glanum Archeological Site
This site used to be a wealthy ancient city under the Greek and Roman Empires. The site dates back to 4th century BCE and parts of it are even older than that.
If you are interested in history, this is among the best things to do around Avignon. The oldest structures that still stand at this site date back to the 1st century BCE.
You will get to tour the archeological site to see how it was designed and how the people lived during that time. You will need to make a 2 to 3-hour trip to explore this place.
I suggest you should take your Entrance Ticket to the Glanum Archaeological Site in advance.
If you are looking for more places to visit in Avignon, check out the sections below. We have created a complete list of attractions and activities that you can explore in and around the city.
Things to do in Avignon, France
Monuments, Museums & Historical Places to Visit in Avignon, France
- Palais des Papes
- Puente de Avinon
- Jardin des Doms
- Avignon Cathedral
- Collection Lambert
- Museo Calvet
- Musee du Petit Palais
- Remparts d’Avignon
- Musee Angladon
- Musee Requien
- Musee Lapidaire
- Basilica de San Pedro de Avinon
- Fort Saint Andre
- Musee Louis Vouland
- Palais du Roure
- Philippe le Bel Tower
- Church of Saint Agricol
- Eglise Saint Didier
- La Chartreuse
- Synagogue d’Avignon
- Chapelle Saint-Benezet
- Chapel of the Black Penitents
- St. Martial Temple
- Chapelle de I’Oratoire
- Quai de la Ligne
- La Chapelle du Miracle
- Galerie le Cube Vernet
- Abbey St. Andrew
- Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Avignon
- Archives Municipales et Musee du Mont de Piete
- Chapelle des Penitents Blancs
- Clocher des Augustins
- Cloitre des Carmes
- Bains Pommer
- Parcours de I’Art
- Eglise Collegiale Notre-Dame
- Prison Saint Anne
- Frigolet Abbey
- La Chartreuse de Villeneuve
- Chateau de Chateaurenard
- Musee Pierre de Luxembourg
- Chapelle des Penitents Gris
- Castle of Chateauneuf du Pape
- Brotte Wine Museum
- Chateau de Brantes
- Chapelle Saint Symphorien
- Chateau de Thouzon
- Maison des Chevaliers
- Chateau de Font Segugne
- Notre Dame du Lac Church
- Chateau de Nalys
- Chateau de Boulbon
- Moulin Bonnet
- Musee Auguste Chabaud
- Musee du Patrimoine
- Chateau de I’Hers
- Colline de Thouzon
- Chateau Barbentane
Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Avignon, France
- Ile de la Barthelasse
- Ile de Piot
- Ile des Papes
- Lac du Pontet
- Grottes de Thouzon
- Randothem
- Colline de Piecaud
- La Roquette
- Lac de la Lionne
- P’tits Anes
- Montagnette
Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Avignon, France
- Gardens at the Pope’s Palace
- Parc Chico Mendes
- Sports Park
- Parc du Clos de Massilargues
- Carmes Garden
- Chemin des Canaux
- Urban Wake Park
- Parc du Clos de la Murette
- Parc de I’Arbousiere
- Caves Clement Winery
- Parc Bardi
- Les Confines
- Chateau la Nerthe Winery
- Les Caves Saint Charles Winery
- Bambous en Provence
- Cave du Chateau de Fontsegugne
- Parc Muncipal
- Jardin Romain
- Le Nez des Papes
- Cave du Verger des Papes
Shopping in Avignon, France
- Les Halles d’Avignon
- Rue de la Republique
- Rue St. Agricol
- Rue Joseph Vernet
- Place des Carmes
Offbeat Places, Tours, & Adventures in Avignon, France
- Hiking
- Boating
- Waterboarding
- Cave Exploration
Sightseeing in Avignon, France
- Place de I’Horloge
- Rue des Teinturiers
Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Avignon, France
- Sevin
- Le Bercail
- La Mirande
- Le Barrio
- Centr’Halles
- L’Ubu
- Au Jardin des Carmes
- Le Coin Cache
- L’Agape
- Maison Ripert
- Fou de Fafa
- Naka
- Pollen
- La Vieille Fontaine
- Le Gout du Jour
- Civette
- L’Essentiel
- L’Isle Sonnante
- Numero 75
- Hygge
- Italie la-bas
- L’Epicerie de Ginette
- Avenio
- EAT
- Bar a Vin Le 46
- La Mirande
- Le Vintage
- La Fourchette
- L’Epicerie de Ginette
Where to Stay in Avignon?
Here we have listed Top Rated Luxurious, Mid-Range, and Budget Hotels in Avignon. You can check below listed hotels for your perfect stay in Avignon.
Luxurious Hotels
- La Divine Comedie
- Auberge de Cassagne & Spa
- Mas de Capelou
- Hotel d’Europe
- La Bastide De Bellegarde
- Hotel La Mirande
- Le Limas
- Hotel de L’Horloge
- Hotel Garlande
- Mercure Avignon Centre Palais des Papes
Mid-Range Hotels
- Le Magnan Hotel
- Hotel Mercure Pont d’Avignon Centre
- Mercure Avignon Gare TGV
- Hotel Cloitre Saint Louis
- Novotel Avignon Centre
- Aux Augustins
- Bristol Hotel
- Be Loft
- L’ilot Bambou
- Hotel Le Colbert
Budget Hotels
- Terre de Provence Hotel & Spa
- Regina Hotel
- Best Western Hotel Paradou
- Kyriad Avignon – Palais Des Papes
- Hotel Boquier
- Kyriad Avignon – Cap Sud
- Ibis Avignon Sud
- Ibis Budget Avignon Centre
- Hotel Mignon
- Aparthotel Adagio Access Avignon
Custom Tours Package in Avignon
How to Reach Avignon, France?
By Air
You can get direct flights to visit Avignon Provence airport from several cities in Europe. The airport has direct flights connecting to Toulouse, Nice, Paris, Lille, Lyon, Strasbourg, Brussels, Bordeaux, Geneva, Luxembourg, Marseille, and several others. You can get buses and cabs to get to the city from the airport.
By Road
You can get direct trains to reach Avignon from several cities in France. The city falls on the TGV line that connects it to cities like Paris, Marseille, Champagne, Lyon, and so on. You can also get connecting trains directly from other destinations in France as well as a few international cities like London, Dortmund, Antwerp, Rotterdam, Liege, Dusseldorf, Amsterdam, and more.
The bus network to get to Avignon is also quite versatile. You will get a direct bus for Avignon travel from several cities and towns in France. However, if you are traveling internationally or from afar, trains are a much better option.
If you are planning to reach Avignon by road, you should head for route A7. Then break off to N7, D225, or D901.
By Water
There are no water routes to get to Avignon.
Image Reference
- Pont St-Bénezet – Siggy Nowak / PixaBay
- Musée du Petit-Palais – Fred Romero / Flickr
- Jardin du Rocher des Doms – jean-louis Zimmermann / Flickr
- Notre-Dame des Doms Cathedral – Patrick / Flickr
- Pope’s Palace (Palais des Papes) – Hans / PixaBay
- Eglise Saint-Pierre – Patrick / Flickr
- City Hall – falco / PixaBay
- Place de l’Horloge – Véronique PAGNIER / Wikimedia Commons
- St-André Abbey & Gardens – Patrick / Flickr
- Musée Louis Vouland – Finoskov / Wikimedia Commons
- Musée Calvet – Alessandro Gallione / Flickr
- Collection Lambert – Pierre Doyen / Flickr
- Musée Lapidaire – Fred Romero / Flickr
- Musée Angladon – Jacklee / Wikimedia Commons
- Eglise Saint-Didier – Patrick / Flickr
- Les Halles Market – Stephen Colebourne / Flickr
- Musée Requien – Marianne Casamance / Wikimedia Commons
- Ile de la Barthelasse – Bernard Blanc / Flickr
- Grottes de Thouzon – GK Sens-Yonne / Flickr
- Brotte Wine Museum – jean-louis Zimmermann / Flickr
- Luberon Village – Vincent Brassinne / Flickr
- Pont du Gard – Neil Gibbons / PixaBay
- Glanum Archeological Site – Patrick / Flickr
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