Avignon Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Local SIM Cards & Wi-Fi

France has four main mobile network operators: Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile. All have widespread coverage in Avignon. Prepaid SIM cards are available at carrier stores and grocery stores.

Connectivity Options

Prepaid SIM cards (cartes prépayées) are affordable.
eSIM options like Airalo provide instant activation upon arrival.
Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafes, and some public areas. Solis Wi-Fi is a portable option.

Internet Access & Postal Services

Good 4G and 5G coverage exists throughout Avignon. La Poste, the French post office, has branches for sending mail.

Access & Mail

Reliable mobile data ensures internet access on the telephones.
La Poste provides postcard, letter, and parcel services.
They also have banking available services.

Language Barriers & Translation

French is the official language. English is common in tourist businesses. Outside these areas, or in smaller shops, English may be less frequent. Reliance solely on English is not advised.

Translation Aids

Google Translate app is useful; download the French language pack for offline use.
A compact French phrasebook provides quick reference.
Learning basic phrases helps interactions. Rosetta Stone is a learning option.

Important Phrases

Everyday Conversational Phrases

Bonjour (bon-ZHOOR): Hello
S'il vous plaît (seel voo PLEH): Please
Oui / Non (WEE / NOHN): Yes / No

Typical Operating Hours

Business and Dining Hours

Shops: 9/10 AM - 7/7:30 PM (Mon-Sat), many close for lunch 12-2/3 PM.
Restaurants: Lunch 12-2 PM, Dinner 7/7:30 PM onwards.
Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner.
Museums/Attractions: 9/10 AM - 5/6 PM, often closed one day (Mon/Tue).

Banking, Holidays & Seasonal Changes

Banks: 9 AM - 12 PM & 2 PM - 5 PM (Mon-Fri), some Sat mornings. Closed Sun.
ATMs: Widely available 24/7.
Public Holidays: Many businesses close or have reduced hours.
Seasonal Closures: Smaller businesses may close during the off-season (Nov-Mar).

Check Schedules

Always check specific websites for current schedules, especially around public holidays or during off-peak seasons.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Greeting Customs

Always greet locals with "Bonjour" or "Bonsoir." "Madame" or "Monsieur" demonstrates politeness.

Appropriate Attire

Smart casual attire is usually acceptable. Modest dress (shoulders, knees covered) is appreciated at religious sites.

Photography

Photography is generally permitted in public spaces. Seek permission before photographing individuals.

Dining & Tipping

Wait to be seated in restaurants. Dining is a social experience, so do not rush meals. Service is usually included in the bill.

Restaurant Practices

Wait to be seated upon arrival.
Meals are for enjoyment, not for quick consumption.
Small tips for good service are a welcome gesture.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Avoid discussing politics, religion, or personal finances casually. Refrain from open criticism of France or French culture.

Topics to Avoid

Politics and religion are generally private matters.
Personal finances are not for casual conversation.
Politeness, discretion, and privacy are valued.

Gender Considerations & LGBTQ+

General Acceptance

France is generally a liberal and accepting country.
Public showing affection in public is generally okay.
Avignon is a welcoming city for all travelers.

Legal Protections

Discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity is illegal.
Legal protections are in place.
A diverse and open environment.

Cultural Courtesy

Small gestures of politeness and adherence to local customs contribute to positive interactions and a pleasant journey.

Accessibility Information

Avignon's historic nature has challenges, yet accessibility efforts have progressed for travelers with mobility needs.

Infrastructure Challenges

Avignon's medieval city center (intra-muros) has many narrow, uneven cobblestone streets. These can challenge wheelchairs, strollers, or those with walking difficulties.

Terrain Notes

Cobblestone streets are common within the walls.
Modern areas and public buildings are generally more accessible.
Ramps and wider entrances exist in newer constructions.

Accessible Attractions & Transport

The Palais des Papes offers a lift to upper floors and some options for people with disabilities routes. The Pont d'Avignon is partially accessible. Newer public transport options feature accessibility design.

Navigation Highlights

Palais des Papes has accessible routes, though not all areas.
Pont d'Avignon has partial accessibility for bridge access.
Newer buses and the tram line (T1) are designed for accessibility.

Services for Sensory Impairments

Specific services directly marketed for tourists with visual or hearing impairments may be limited. However, guide dogs are generally permitted in public places and on public transport.

Support for Visitors

Guide dogs are acceptedd in public areas.
Check with attractions for specific needs.
Pre-planning routes is recommended for a smoother journey.

Resources for Accessibility

Consult the official Avignon Tourist Office web page or contact them directly for specific details regarding accessibility at attractions and within the city.