Download the app 200 audioguided tours

Visit Avignon

On y danse, on y danse !

  • Tour

  • 5,4 km

  • 2h10

  • 28 audios

AVI map

27 lieux d'intérêt à découvrir pour visiter Avignon in one day

Text version

Sur le pont d’Avignon, we’re all dancing, we’re all dancing… Had you grown up in France, the mere mention of Avignon would get you singing this nursery rhyme about its iconic bridge. But hang on, there’s so much more to this city also nicknamed the “City of Popes”. Avignon boasts a wealth of historical monuments and a fascinating past, marked by the presence of popes for over a century. Nestled at the heart of Provence, in the Vaucluse department, this charming southern town welcomes visitors with open arms, especially during the famous Avignon Festival, a summer highlight for anyone who loves live performances! History, theater, museums – this city has it all!

visuel navaway en

Découvrez Avignon avec l’application navaway®

An interactive guide through the most beautiful streets, squares, and districts

27 fun audioguides full of historical facts, anecdotes, and legends

Download the app

Top Things to Do

Dive into the medieval history of Avignon through this architectural masterpiece.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Good to know !

Recommended Starting Point

No need to worry about where to begin! Our tours are designed as a loop, so you can jump in wherever you are. The navigation system and audio-guide will automatically adjust to your location. However, if you happen to be nearby, we do have a preferred starting point: In front of the Cité Administrative.

Recommended parking downtown

Avignon Jean Jaurès indoor parking lot : Avenue du 7ème Génie.

The simplest solution is to park in a paid underground parking lot. If you don’t want to deal with city traffic, there are park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts with free shuttles that will take you downtown. Street parking’s also an option in the orange and yellow zones, for up to 4 hours. You’ll have to pay directly at the parking meter or download the Paybyphone app. The further away you are from the center, the better your chances of finding free parking.

Visit Info

During this tour, we will be passing by the Papal Palace and the St. Benezet Bridge: remember to book your tickets in advance should you wish to visit them!

Got Some Extra Time?

Stroll along the Pont d’Avignon

No trip to Avignon is complete without a visit to the famous Pont d’Avignon. You’ll need to buy a ticket, which also includes entry to the Palace of the Popes. Lucky for you, as you’ll also get to explore this incredible feat of engineering, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Remember to check opening times and book ahead if you plan to visit during peak season.

Île de la Barthelasse and Saint-André Fort

For a change of scenery, hop over to Île de la Barthelasse, the largest river island in Europe, and soak in the breathtaking views of the Pont d’Avignon and the Papal Palace. Enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride to discover its exceptional fauna, which has earned it its classification as Natural area of ecological, faunal and floristic interest. You can get there by car, or take the free river shuttle that will have you there in just a few minutes.

 

Villeneuve-Lès-Avignon

Right across from the Île de la Barthelasse lies the beautiful medieval town of Villeneuve-Lès-Avignon, a former royal city with a wealth of treasures to uncover. You can visit Fort Saint-André and the Philippe Le Bel tower, both offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Be sure to also stop by the Carthusian monastery of Notre-Dame-du-Val-de-Bénédiction and the collegiate church of Notre-Dame, and of course stroll along the picturesque streets of the city center. It’s the perfect day-trip adventure!

 

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Fontaine de Vaucluse and Gordes

A little further afield, some thirty kilometers from the center, you’ll find the town of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, nicknamed the Little Venice of Provence. Don’t miss the chance to stroll along its charming canals and wander the picturesque cobbled streets. Dotted with gourmet markets, antique stores and waterwheels, this bucolic village is well worth a visit if you’re staying in the area for a while. Venture further afield to Fontaine de Vaucluse, the iconic Lubéron village and source of the Sorgue River, and then on to Gordes, one of the most beautiful villages in France.

 

Pont du Gard

Avignon is also a great jumping-off point to discover the world-famous Pont du Gard, a true marvel of Antiquity. A testament to Roman engineering mastery, this UNESCO-listed aqueduct bridge is an absolute must-see, both day and night. Plus, it’s just a short 30-minute drive from the City of Popes. Built in the 1st century AD, it is one of the best-preserved Roman remains in the world, mesmerizing visitors with its sheer size. In fact, it’s the tallest Roman aqueduct in the world. The site is open all year round, day and night  – just be sure to check the opening hours. Once the sun sets, the aqueduct is beautifully illuminated. Your entrance ticket grants you access not only to the bridge, but also to a number of cultural spaces recounting the story of this architectural marvel. Guided tours are also available upon reservation for those wishing to learn more.

 

Nîmes

Just across this exceptional bridge, less than an hour’s drive from Avignon, you’ll find the charming town of Nîmes, home to some stunning Roman ruins, such as the Maison Carrée and the arenas. This City of Art and History is full of hidden gems waiting to be explored. It’s perfect for a quick day trip or a weekend getaway. Find our audio-guided tour on the Navaway app and off to discover every nook and cranny.

 

Alpilles Regional Natural Park

And for those fond of nature walks, you can visit the Alpilles Regional Natural Park, just 30 minutes away. Nestled in the Bouches-du-Rhône department, this limestone massif boasts a stunning natural heritage and impressive biodiversity. Lace up your hiking boots or hop on a bike, and explore the picturesque villages and fascinating archaeological sites along the way. Don’t miss a visit to Les Baux-de-Provence, a charming medieval village in the Alpilles, listed as one of France’s most beautiful villages.

 

The Dentelles de Montmirail

For a more rugged adventure, head to the Dentelles de Montmirail. This unique mountain range with lace-like peaks is a paradise for rock climbers and hikers, offering breathtaking panoramas. A plethora of outdoor adventures awaits, along with charming village visits and the chance to explore the area’s renowned vineyards.

 

Colorado Provençal

You can also head for the Lubéron region, and discover the Colorado Provençal, a former ochre quarry located in Rustrel, just 1 hour and 20 minutes from Avignon. Prepare to be dazzled by the incredible ochre-colored landscape, reminiscent of the American Southwest. These former quarries are open to the public all year round, except January. Take a self-guided walking tour for a small fee and spend 1-2 hours journeying through history! Don’t forget to book ahead during peak season.

 

Arles

Last but not least, don’t miss a trip to the beautiful city of Arles and the Camargue countryside, just 45 minutes south of Avignon! It’s definitely worth the detour! You can find an audio-guided tour of this ancient Roman city on the Navaway app.

Popular activities to discover

Avignon is full of cultural and culinary treasures. Here are our suggestions to enhance your stay!

Powered by GetYourGuide

200 audioguided tours for cities all around the world

Download

Top 5 things to do in Avignon

Avignon is one of France's top destinations for a quiet, peaceful break. Find out why! Read more

Palace of the Popes

Our rating

Budget

Palace,Of,The,Popes,,Once,Fortress,And,Palace,,One,Of

 

Located to the north of the city, it is impossible to miss this imposing building that proudly stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once, it was famous for housing the Avignon Papacy within its walls, which served as the residence of the Pope of Avignon in 1418.

 

If you’re wondering why this place has…

Read More

 

Good to know : It is one of the most visited monuments in France, open every day throughout the year, starting at 9 a.m. until around 7 p.m. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to go early in the morning to admire the first rays of a shy sun over the “city of the Alps.”

Prices and Availability 📆

What are the best hotels in Avignon?

A stay in Avignon? There's no better place to get some rest! Here are the best hotels for you! Read more

Garlande Hotel Avignon Centre

Our rating

Budget

avignon garlande hotel booking

 

Your comfort? It’s their priority! The Provençal atmosphere reigns in this place. Elegantly decorated, the rooms…

Read More

 

 

Highlights 

The hotel’s location makes it perfect for strolls.

Ideal for visiting the historic city center.

Free high-speed internet.

Hypoallergenic room.

 

Things to Consider 

Paid parking

 

Location : 20 Rue Galante, 84000 Avignon, France

 

Prices and Availability 📆

La Mirande

Our rating

Budget

avignon la mirande booking

 

See Our Full Review

Frequently asked questions

Where to eat in Avignon?

What should you eat in Avignon? And most importantly, where can you eat well in Avignon? This question often crosses the minds of many visitors and tourists who wish to enjoy a stay in this charming city. Provincial dishes are particularly popular in this region of France, and in the neighboring towns as well. If you want to visit the most romantic and refined tables in the city, head to Place de la Mirande for an exceptional experience on enchanting terraces. The restaurants are known for their lovely gardens and friendly, attentive staff. You can also check out the Grande Rue Fusterie and Place de la Principale, which offer affordable dining options with excellent food, featuring fresh products and local dishes such as Aïoli and Ratatouille.

Where to stay in Avignon?

For a successful stay in Avignon, there’s nothing better than consulting Navaway! This lovely city in Provence, located in the southeast of France, has a lot to offer in terms of accommodations within its 64.78 km². Ah, what a pleasure it is to fall asleep in a peaceful place where tranquility reigns and serenity fills the walls of your room. For this, it’s best to head to Rue Galante, where you’ll find a highly rated and welcoming establishment. Hotels here are known for providing a cozy Provençal setting with a calm atmosphere. If you’re looking for a place with greenery where you can take walks, head to Chemin Lavarin du Sud. You’ll find a charming property (not far from the city) with simple rooms wrapped in a cozy cocoon of originality. You can also check out Place de l’Amirande, known for its “classy and heartwarming” accommodations.

How to get around?

Want a closer look at the roads in Avignon to better know how to move around the region? You can easily walk! There are two good reasons for this: it’s the most eco-friendly option, and it allows you to really take in the city without missing a thing. Plus, Avignon has beautiful pedestrian streets, so you can stroll around safely. If you’re not a fan of walking or if the place you want to visit is far from where you’re staying, public transport is a great alternative. Many buses are managed by the Grand Avignon urban community and circulate throughout the city, making it easy to get from point A to point B. You’ll find everything you need at your disposal!

How much time do you need to visit Avignon and what to see?

One day is more than enough to visit Avignon and its must-see landmarks that have made the city famous. You know the famous tune “Sur le pont d’Avignon, on y danse, on y danse”? Well, this is the perfect time to visit the iconic bridge, whose lyrics have echoed through our childhood. In the morning, explore the bridge that survived the region’s wars and is now a source of pride for the locals. Then head to the Musée du Petit Palais, one of the largest medieval art museums in all of Europe. You’ll learn more about the city’s history, the surrounding towns, and of course, the broader history of France. After that, take a break and enjoy a local dish in one of the city’s many restaurants. End your day at the Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

What to do with family in Avignon?

A family trip is a way to reconnect, a chance to come closer again. Avignon is a charming city, surrounded by ramparts, and is perfect for spending quality time with loved ones. The first thing you must see as a family is undoubtedly the Palais des Papes. It offers a unique and original way to discover the place through a fun riddle! What a joy to move from room to room, solving clues and learning more about the city’s history. Monument visits aren’t always fun for kids, but this is an excellent way to keep them engaged while enriching their knowledge. Afterward, take a walk through the city and enjoy the places to explore!

What to do in a group in Avignon?

Traveling with friends often means seeking challenges and unusual activities. Before leaving the beautiful city of Avignon, know that you can easily enjoy an action-packed stay with your friends. Just have the right references, and that’s where Navaway comes in. Head to Bloc Session for a fun physical activity. Here, you can test your climbing skills with over 350 m² to explore. It’s a perfect group activity, even for families, as kids can climb too. Also, check out the “Secrets du Phoenix” escape game— a great way to test your friendship’s strength and problem-solving skills. Solve puzzles and try to escape within a time limit while boosting your self-confidence and mental agility!

What to do as a couple in Avignon?

A day full of activities in Avignon wouldn’t be complete without strolling around the city! There’s nothing better for couples than walking hand in hand through this charming town. Enjoy the awakening of the city by visiting the iconic Pont d’Avignon, with the famous song lyrics still echoing in your mind. You can also visit a cultural spot like the Basilique Saint-Pierre, where you’ll admire various works of art. Its unique Gothic style will surely inspire you to take some beautiful photos. In the north of the city, explore the famous Palais des Papes, a perfect place for a couple to visit together.

What to do solo in Avignon?

In life, we make many connections, but don’t be afraid to embark on solo trips—after all, the only person who will always be with you is yourself. So, appreciate your own company before seeking others. Enjoy a delicious local dish in one of the cozy restaurants in the city, and then explore the top tourist spots and monuments, such as the Musée du Petit Palais, the Jardin des Doms for a peaceful walk, shopping in the city center, and maybe even a wine tasting. Why not indulge in some extra enjoyment?

What to see around Avignon?

Yes, Avignon has plenty of beautiful places and hidden gems within the city… but what about the surroundings? If you’re keen on exploring further and enjoy some physical activity, consider a hiking trail or cycling. There are hidden treasures in this wild nature—will you be able to find them? If you’re in the mood for a swim, head to the Fontaine de Vaucluse for a refreshing experience. This underground river springs from a 230-meter-high cliff. While the flow is massive, you’ll find several small, crystal-clear “pools” where you can swim. Don’t forget that the city is surrounded by many cycling circuits, including the old railway track. Enjoy a moment with nature, feeling the breeze through the trees as the wind tousles your hair.

How to get to Avignon?

To get to Avignon, it’s best to take the train or bus. There are five trains and two coaches that stop in the region every day. The train is the fastest option and, importantly, it is the most eco-friendly way to travel. You’ll be comfortable and enjoy beautiful views along the way. Avignon is well-connected by train, with lines passing through major cities like Paris, Lyon, Lille, and Marseille. The bus is a cheaper option, and while it takes about twice as long as the train, today’s buses are quite comfortable, and you’ll feel at ease during the trip.

What to do in Avignon when it rains?

Rain can often be a hindrance when you want to go out, we agree. But don’t let unpredictable weather stop you from enjoying Avignon. When it rains, the city’s museums will welcome you for a relaxing and exciting guided tour. Visit the Musée Calvet, which has collections related to archaeology and fine arts—perfect for history buffs! Alternatively, head to the market to chat with the locals and merchants, who are always happy to see new faces. You’ll get to know the Provençal terroir and the local specialties Avignon is known for.

What else to see in Vaucluse?

Vaucluse is vast, and there are many hidden treasures and places to discover. A walk along the Sentier des Ocres is the perfect way to experience nature’s beauty. The landscape changes with the seasons, offering stunning views of vibrant colors, flowers, and foliage. You can also visit the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, founded in the 12th century. Always open for visits, it houses a community of Cistercian monks.

Destinations

Visiter les autres villes d'Europe

Comments

Notez cette publication

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *