Avignon Provence-alpes-cote Dazur, France Travel Guide
Choosing the right airport impacts your travel duration and connections to Avignon. Consider seasonal flight availability and price fluctuations when booking. Flight prices stay highest during peak season (June-August), especially in July during the Festival d'Avignon. Book well in advance for these months. Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) generally present better value and availability. Winter (November-March) is usually the cheapest time to fly, with fewer routes but lower demand. For great deals, check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.
No direct flights from North America, Asia, or other major global hubs to Avignon, Nîmes, or Marseille. Travelers typically connect through major European airports like Paris (CDG/ORY), London (LHR/LGW), Frankfurt (FRA), Amsterdam (AMS), Brussels (BRU), or Madrid (MAD). Plan for at least one layover if you're flying from outside Europe. MRS is a contemporary airport with good facilities; AVN and FNI have basic amenities.
Train and direct bus shuttles from Marseille Provence Airport present efficient options to reach Avignon.
All major car rental companies have desks at MRS, offering flexibility for onward travel in Provence.
International flights generally connect through major European hubs before reaching Provence.
As a Schengen Area member, border verifications are typically minimal or non-existent for journeys between member countries. Random checks can occur. Full immigration procedures apply for non-Schengen travelers upon first entry.
Roads are generally well-maintained. Traffic is often heavy in and around major cities during peak hours. Be aware of cyclists. Speed cameras are common.
Gare Routière (bus station) is next to Avignon Centre train station, the main hub for regional and long-distance bus services.
The Rhône River flows past Avignon, but scheduled passenger services for arrival or departure are generally limited to tourist cruises offering scenic views rather than point-to-point transportation.
Avignon is an inland city, so direct ferry services or cruise ports are not applicable for arrival in Avignon itself. The nearest major cruise port is Marseille, situated on the Mediterranean coast, approximately an hour's drive away.
No specific exit fees or taxes exist on departing travelers from French airports. These costs usually exist within your airline ticket price.
Train stations also have specific timing recommendations for departure.
Most airports and train stations present a range of facilities including shops (duty-free for international flights), restaurants, cafes, and restrooms. Wi-Fi access is often available.
