Located in the heart of Provence, Avignon is a charming and historic city that boasts countless attractions and activities for travelers of all types. From wandering the narrow streets of the ancient city to exploring the grandeur of the Palais des Papes, Avignon is truly a treasure trove of culture, history, and beauty. In this post, we will guide you through the top attractions and things to do in Avignon, to help you plan your visit to this unforgettable destination. Whether you are a history buff, a gastronomy enthusiast, or simply in search of a peaceful escape, Avignon has something to offer you. So, let’s dive in and discover the best that this delightful city has to offer!

The 5 Best Tours with Locals in Avignon

1. Violet Tour a Full Day on the Lavender Route
2. Roman Sites Small Group Day Trip from Avignon Including Nimes and Uzes
3. Luberon Tour from Avignon Including Entrance to the Lavender Museum
4. History Chocolate and Wine Tour of Provence from Avignon
5. Luberon Tour from Avignon Including Gordes and Roussillon

The 5 Best Tours with Locals in Avignon

1. Violet Tour a Full Day on the Lavender Route

Explore the stunning lavender landscapes of Provence on a full-day tour from Avignon. Discover the famous Lavender Route, stopping at the hilltop village of Gordes and visiting the Lavender Museum to learn about the production of Provence’s iconic flower. Next, visit the Romanesque Senanque Abbey and marvel at its architecture. Continue to Roussillon, where you can stroll along the scenic Ochre Path and admire the stunning views. Finally, head to the Sault plateau to take in the vast expanse of the purple lavender fields. Enjoy a personalized experience on this small-group tour, with a driver/tour guide providing live commentary. Air-conditioned transportation is included, as are entrance fees unless otherwise specified.

2. Roman Sites Small Group Day Trip from Avignon Including Nimes and Uzes

Explore the ancient Roman sites of Provence on this small-group tour from Avignon. This full-day trip takes you to some of the region’s most impressive Roman ruins, including Nîmes’ Roman amphitheater and Maison Carrée, the Fenestrelle Tower in Uzès, the magnificent Pont du Gard aqueduct – a UNESCO-listed site, and the city of Orange with its Roman Antic Theatre. Led by an expert guide who will provide informative commentary, this small-group tour limited to eight people ensures personal attention. Discover the rich Roman history of southern France with this immersive day trip.

3. Luberon Tour from Avignon Including Entrance to the Lavender Museum

Experience the beauty of Luberon on a 5-hour small-group tour from Avignon. Discover the charming Provencal villages of Gordes and Roussillon, made famous by Peter Mayle’s ‘A Year in Provence’. Admire the picturesque scenery and capture memories with photo stops at Marque de Sade’s castle, Lacoste village, and Senanque Abbey. Immerse yourself in the essence of Provencal life while strolling through hilltop villages. Enjoy a scenic drive through bloom-filled lavender fields (June-August) and learn all about the prize crop at the Lavender Museum (entrance included). The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, driver/guide, local guide, and free admission to top local attractions. Choose between a morning or afternoon departure and enjoy a family-friendly small-group tour by minibus.

4. History Chocolate and Wine Tour of Provence from Avignon

Explore the beauty and history of Provence with a full-day guided tour from Avignon. Discover the ancient Roman Theatre of Orange and marvel at the engineering feat of the UNESCO-listed Pont du Gard aqueduct.
Indulge your senses as you visit the renowned Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region for a chocolate and wine tasting experience. Learn about the region’s rich history and winemaking traditions from your informative and friendly guide.
This small-group tour includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as admission to top local attractions. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the best of Provence in one unforgettable day.

5. Luberon Tour from Avignon Including Gordes and Roussillon

Immerse yourself in local life with a full-day small-group tour from Avignon to the Luberon National Park. With a local guide, you’ll explore the rolling hills and picturesque villages, browse the village markets in Gordes or Roussillon, sample regional specialties like wine and honey, and snap photos of the lavender fields. Visit the Senanque Abbey and follow the ochre path of Roussillon before returning to Avignon. Hotel pickup and drop-off, transport by air-conditioned minivan, and free admission to top local attractions are included. You can head directly to the meeting point or request pickup from your hotel.

Avignon Travel Guide: Top FAQs Answered

If you’re planning to visit Avignon, you probably have a lot of questions about the city. From the best time to visit to the must-see attractions, there are a lot of things to consider. To help you plan your trip, we’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions about Avignon.

1. What is Avignon best known for?

Avignon is best known for the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s an impressive building that served as the papal palace during the 14th century. The city is also famous for the Pont Saint-Bénézet which is a medieval bridge that spans the Rhone River. Additionally, Avignon is known for its annual theater festival that happens in July.

2. When is the best time to visit Avignon?

The best time to visit Avignon is during the spring and fall months (April to June and September to November). During these months, the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer months. July and August can be hot and crowded, but it’s also the time of the famous theater festival.

3. How many days do you need to explore Avignon?

You can comfortably explore Avignon in 2-3 days. This will give you enough time to explore the main attractions and wander around the charming streets of the city. If you have more time, you can also explore the surrounding areas such as the Luberon region, which is known for its stunning scenery.

4. How do I get to Avignon?

Avignon has its own airport, but it only operates limited flights. The easiest way to get to Avignon is by train. The city has a train station that’s well-connected to other major cities in France such as Paris, Marseille, and Lyon. If you’re driving, Avignon is easily accessible via the A7 highway.

5. Is Avignon a walkable city?

Yes, Avignon is a very walkable city. Most of the main attractions are located within the city walls and can be easily reached on foot. The historic city center is also pedestrian-friendly with plenty of charming plazas, narrow streets, and hidden alleyways to explore.

6. What are the must-see attractions in Avignon?

The must-see attractions in Avignon include the Palais des Papes, Pont Saint-Bénézet, and the Avignon Cathedral. You should also explore the historic city center, which is known for its charming squares, cafes, and restaurants. Other recommended attractions include the Musée du Petit Palais, the Rocher des Doms, and the Chartreuse du Val de Bénédiction.

7. Is it necessary to know French to visit Avignon?

While French is the official language of France, you don’t need to know it to visit Avignon. Many people in the city speak English and are happy to help visitors. However, learning a few basic phrases in French can be helpful and show respect for the local culture.

8. What is the currency used in Avignon?

The currency used in Avignon (and France) is the Euro. You can easily exchange your currency for Euros at banks or ATMs throughout the city. Most shops and restaurants also accept credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand.

9. Where are the best places to eat in Avignon?

Avignon is known for its culinary scene with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and wine bars to choose from. Some of the best places to eat in Avignon include La Fourchette, Fou de Fafa, and La Mirande. Additionally, the city has a vibrant food market (Les Halles d’Avignon) where you can sample delicious local produce.

10. What is the weather like in Avignon?

The weather in Avignon is generally mild with four distinct seasons. Summers (June-August) can be hot with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F). Spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) are mild with temperatures ranging between 10-25°C (50-77°F). Winter (December-March) is cool with temperatures around 5-10°C (41-50°F).Avignon is a beautiful city with plenty of history, culture, and attractions to explore. By answering these frequently asked questions, we hope that you are better equipped to plan your trip and make the most out of your visit.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Avignon

Avignon is a historical city located in the southeastern part of France. It was once the seat of the papacy, and today it stands as a testament to the rich history of this region. Many tourists flock to Avignon each year to experience the unique blend of art, architecture, and culture that it has to offer. If you’re planning a trip to Avignon, this guide will help you make the most of your time in this fabulous city.

Explore the Palais des Papes

The Palais des Papes is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Avignon, and it’s easy to see why. This grand palace was once the home of the popes, and it’s still one of the largest Gothic palaces in the world. When you visit the Palais des Papes, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the many rooms and corridors of this magnificent palace, including the Pope’s apartments, the chapels, and the great hall.

See the Pont Saint-Bénezet

The Pont Saint-Bénezet, also known as the Pont d’Avignon, is a famous bridge that spans the Rhone River. This bridge has a rich history, dating back to the 12th century. Today, visitors can walk across the bridge and take in the stunning views of the river and the city. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a boat ride under the bridge.

Visit the Musée du Petit Palais

The Musée du Petit Palais is a museum that’s housed in a beautiful building that dates back to the 14th century. Here, you’ll find an extensive collection of art from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, including works by artists like Botticelli and Carpaccio. The museum also has a beautiful garden where you can relax and take in the scenery.

Take a Walking Tour of the City

Avignon is a beautiful city, and one of the best ways to experience it is on foot. There are many walking tours available that will take you through the various neighborhoods and landmarks of the city. This is a great way to learn about the history and culture of Avignon while taking in the stunning sights and sounds of the city.

Visit the Palais des Papes at Night

If you really want to experience the grandeur of the Palais des Papes, consider visiting it at night. The palace is lit up beautifully in the evenings, creating a stunning visual display that’s not to be missed. In addition to the stunning lighting, you’ll also have the opportunity to attend a variety of concerts and events hosted at the palace.

Explore the Gardens of the Rocher des Doms

The Rocher des Doms is a hill that overlooks the Rhone River and the city of Avignon. At the top of the hill, you’ll find the Jardin du Rocher des Doms, a beautiful garden that’s filled with exotic flowers, trees, and plants. This is a great place to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply take in the breathtaking views of the city.

Visit the Avignon Market

No trip to Avignon would be complete without a visit to the market. This bustling market is held every day in Place Pie, and it’s the perfect place to sample local produce and goods. You’ll find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to artisanal cheeses and baked goods. Be sure to arrive early to beat the crowds and get the best deals.

Attend the Festival d’Avignon

The Festival d’Avignon is a world-renowned performing arts festival that’s held in the city every July. For three weeks, the city is transformed into a cultural hub, with performances and events taking place in theaters, gardens, and streets throughout the city. If you’re visiting Avignon during the festival, be sure to book your tickets early and don’t miss out on this amazing experience.

Go Wine Tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a small town that’s located just a short drive from Avignon. This town is famous for its wine, and there are many wineries in the area that offer tastings and tours. This is a great way to experience the rich flavors and aromas of the local wines while also taking in the stunning scenery of the vineyards.

Final Thoughts

Avignon is a beautiful city that’s rich in history and culture. Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, or wine, there’s something for everyone here. By following this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in Avignon and create memories that will last a lifetime.