Top 5 things to do in Avignon

Are you travelling to the South of France and looking for a cosy little town where you can spend a quiet holiday? Let Navaway be your guide to the north-west of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, in the department of Vaucluse to be exact… Here lies Avignon, at least half the size of Paris, but where much of French history was made. Known as the “City of the Popes” from 1309 to 1423, a number of popes settled here and maintained their states until the French Revolution. Still not sure whether you should make a stopover there? Here are 10 good reasons to visit Avignon!

What to do in Avignon

1. The Popes’ Palace

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: Located to the north of the city, it’s impossible to miss this mighty edifice, which stands proudly as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was once famous for holding within its walls the Papacy of Avignon, which is none other than the residence of the Pope of Avignon, in 1418. If you’re wondering why this seemingly mystical and ancient place became the worthy home of the popes, it was in fact under the influence of the King of France, Philippe Le Bel, that Avignon became their main residence. But the Palais des Papes was also home to a few members of French royalty, as well as the papal legates, whose mission was to assist the legate in organising the city of Avignon.

Good to know: One of the most visited monuments in France, it’s open every day all year round, from 9am until around 7pm. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to go early in the morning, to admire the first rays of a timid sun on the “City of the Alps”.

2. The Petit Palais Museum

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: If you open a French history book, it’s highly likely that a whole chapter will be devoted to the city of Avignon. It’s a compendium of monuments, squares and cultural sites that have left their mark on the history of our beautiful country. The Petit Palais museum is no exception. To give you an idea before your visit, it is one of the largest museums of medieval art in the whole of Europe. Through the mullioned windows, you might already be able to make out a few paintings from the Middle Ages and the Italian Renaissance, as well as medieval sculptures dating from the 12th to the 16th centuries. The various rooms to explore display a different style each time, giving us an idea of how art has evolved over the centuries. There’s no doubt about it, the Petit Palais museum is a must-see!

Good to know: For a visit of around 1? hours, the Musée du Petit Palais lives up to its name: it is a veritable sanctuary of preciously guarded works of art.

3. The Pont d’Avignon

Category: €€/Cultural/Insolite

Description: No, dear spectators, this is no classic bridge! The Pont d’Avignon survived the wars of the region, and stretches no less than 915 metres to the opposite bank of the river. Even though it has undergone several reconstructions over the years, it is perfectly safe to enter today. In fact, you may have heard about it as a child, when your grandparents used to sing the nursery rhyme “Sur le pont d’Avignon”? Well, now you can recite it directly on the bridge! With almost 400,000 visitors a year, the bridge has had a turbulent history, but despite everything, “we dance, we dance”…

Legend has it that its construction is linked to a young shepherd called “Bénézet”, sent by God. Many popes used to stroll along it, and pray at Bénézet’s chapel. Take your turn to walk the ramparts and admire the view.

Good to know: It’s absolutely spectacular to be able to admire the sunset from the Pont d’Avignon! So it’s only natural to visit it at the end of the day, when the river is at its calmest and the sky tends to get a little darker.

4. Stroll through the city centre

Category: €€/Gastronomic/Cultural

Description: The Place de l’horloge, the Rue Banasterie, the Place des Corps Saints, the Rue des Teinturiers… you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the jovial and charming atmosphere that reigns here. What’s more, the museums and theatres are well worth a visit!

As you wander through the city’s narrow streets, adorned with flowers and stonework, you’ll want to continue your journey. The best time to visit is undoubtedly during the month of July, when the big festival takes place: small stalls of all kinds; artists; amateurs; professionals; food typical of the region; parades; singing and dancing throughout the town… You’re sure to have a great time.

Good to know: While the sights and sounds of Avignon may enchant you, you’ll also be won over by the charming little shops and friendly terraces. We hope you have a great time!

5. Saint Peter’s Basilica

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: Built in the 14th century, it underwent numerous alterations in the 16th century. Gothic in style, it was listed as a historic monument in 1840, and many visitors come here to admire the various works of art preserved within its sturdy walls. Don’t hesitate to take photos of the cloister, side chapels, chevet and bell tower. Despite the centuries, they haven’t aged a bit! Inside, you can admire some of the paintings by Nicolas Mignard and Simon de Châlon. A sight for sore eyes! The architecture is typical of the monuments of the time, when the solid walnut doors prevented anyone from entering unless they were invited.

Good to know: Admission is free, so you can visit whenever you like, but please note that visits are not possible during church services.