The historic town of Avignon, in the heart of Provence

Avignon is a city that has played a central role in the history of the Catholic Church and offers a wealth of historic sites, cultural events and magnificent landscapes. Here are some reasons why Avignon is a destination not to be missed.

1. The Popes Palace

The Palais des Papes is undoubtedly the most emblematic monument in Avignon. This imposing Gothic fortress served as a papal residence in the 14th century, when the seat of the papacy was moved from Rome to Avignon. Today, the palace is a museum open to the public, where you can explore the majestic rooms, chapels and terraces with panoramic views of the city and the Rhône.

The palace, which is the interweaving of two buildings, the old palace of Benedict XII, a veritable fortress sitting on the impregnable rock of the Doms, and the new palace of Clement VI, the most sumptuous of the Avignon pontiffs, is not only the most a large Gothic building but also one where the international Gothic style was expressed in all its fullness.

2. The Avignon Bridge

On the Pont d'Avignon, we dance there we dance... On the Pont d'Avignon, we dance there, all in a circle... Well known for its iconic name and music, although only a few arches remain of this medieval bridge, it remains a strong symbol of the city, made famous by the popular song "Sur le pont d'Avignon". The site offers magnificent views of the river and the surrounding countryside.

 © hsivonen — https://www.flickr.com/photos/hsivonen/191785118/, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=2632482 

3. The Avignon Festival

Avignon is renowned for its theater festival, one of the largest in the world. The Avignon Festival which takes place every summer transforms the city into a giant stage with theatrical performances in historic places, streets and squares. It is a unique moment to discover high-level artistic performances and to feel the vibrant energy of the city during this event.

4. Historic streets and squares

Avignon has a charming historic center with its cobbled streets, local shops and lively squares. Clock Square is the heart of the city, with its outdoor cafes, theater and town hall. Walking through the center of Avignon means discovering ancient architecture and a warm atmosphere.

5. Museums

Avignon is a small city but is very culturally rich. It has many museums with unique works.

The Little Palace

This former cardinal's residence houses an extraordinary museum. This offers the largest collection of Italian primitives in France.

The Calvet Museum

In the 1980s, the museum was split into two parts: The Calvet museum where fine arts are exhibited (paintings, sculptures)

The Lapidary Museum

Where you can admire Greek and Roman remains. The fine arts collection has high quality pieces such as the paintings of Mignard and Joseph Vernet. The building, which is one of the largest mansions in the city, is also incredible to visit.

The Roure Palace

It is dedicated to Provençal history and culture. You can admire the interior of a Provençal house and learn more about the Félibres. This movement tried to save Provençal culture and language.

The Angladon Museum

Discover the art collection of Jacques Doucet, pioneer of haute couture! You will find unique works by Cezanne, Picasso, Van Gogh and many others.

Lambert Collection

The Lambert collection is a collection of contemporary art works brought together by the Parisian gallery owner Yvon Lambert since the 1960s. It is installed in Avignon in the Hôtel de Caumont, which has been a museum open to the public since 2000.

Visit the Rocher des Doms

The rock allows you to sit in the shade of the trees and enjoy the freshness of the water, to enjoy the behavior of the ducks or to admire the peacocks, it is a green space where you can can relax and refresh. It also allows you to have a unique point of view over the entire city.