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Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

Provence, France

Iconic Landmarks

Avignon's history is in its iconic structures.

These sites are central to the city's identity and offer deep historical understanding.

Landmarks to Visit

  • Palais des Papes (Pope's Palace): UNESCO World Heritage site, Europe's largest Gothic palace. Residence of Popes in the 14th century. An adult ticket is about €14.50. Audio guide is included. Book online ahead to save time. Give 2-3 hours for a full visit. Histopad (interactive tablet) makes the visit better with augmented reality. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • Pont Saint-Bénézet (Pont d'Avignon): UNESCO World Heritage site, famous from the nursery rhyme. Only four arches remain of the 12th-century bridge. An adult ticket is about €5.50. Audio guide included. A combined ticket with Palais des Papes is about €17.50. Walk on the arches for an unique view. Views of Avignon's skyline are great photo spots.
  • Rocher des Doms: Public park above Palais des Papes. Natural elevated position for panoramic views of the Palais, Rhône River, Pont d'Avignon, and distant hills. Free entry, open during daylight hours. Good for sunsets. Has a cafe and playground. Access by stairs or tourist train/elevator.
  • For tickets and tours, visit GetYourGuide.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

Art & History

  • Musée du Petit Palais: In a 14th-century cardinal's palace. Has Avignon School paintings from Middle Ages and Renaissance, plus Italian Renaissance works (Botticelli). Free entry. Closed Tuesdays.
  • Collection Lambert en Avignon: Contemporary art museum with works from Yvon Lambert's private collection. Works by major contemporary artists from the 1960s to today. Entrance fee about €10-€12. Closed Mondays.
  • Musée Calvet: Fine arts museum in an 18th-century mansion. Collections from archaeological artifacts (Egyptian, Greek, Roman) to European paintings and sculptures (16th-20th centuries). Entrance fee about €6. Closed Tuesdays.
  • Musée Lapidaire: In a former Jesuit church. Displays ancient Roman and Gallo-Roman sculptures, mosaics, and artifacts found in Avignon. Entrance fee about €2-€3. Closed Tuesdays.
  • Opéra Grand Avignon: Hosts opera, classical concerts, theatrical performances. Check schedule for shows.
  • Théâtre du Chêne Noir: Historic theatre venue with plays and performances.

Performance & Festivals

  • During Festival d'Avignon (July): The entire city becomes a performance space. Many pop-up venues and performances happen in July, an arts experience.
  • Check official museum websites for current schedules and fees.
  • Some museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of the month.
  • Consider a detailed guidebook to fully understand Avignon's art and history.

Avignon has many museums, from medieval art to contemporary works.

Historical Sites

  • Les Halles d'Avignon: The site served as a market for centuries, showing Avignon's long commercial tradition. It gives a look into local life.
  • City Walls (Remparts d'Avignon): Well-preserved medieval ramparts from the 14th century, surrounding the historic city. A UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk on certain sections for unique views of city rooftops and the moat. Free access in most areas.
  • Place de l'Horloge: The main central square of Avignon, always busy. Has the City Hall with its clock tower and the opera house. Lined with cafes and restaurants, a popular gathering spot. Free to access.
  • Synagogue d'Avignon: Rebuilt in the 19th century, on a 13th-century synagogue site in the former Jewish quarter. It represents the history of one of France's oldest Jewish communities.

Additional Historic Details

  • Beyond Landmarks:

    Avignon's history goes beyond its papal palace, with other sites showing its past. Explore the narrow side streets within the city walls for hidden historical details.

  • Archaeological Riches:

    The Musée Lapidaire focuses on ancient Roman and Gallo-Roman artifacts found locally.

  • Cultural Significance:

    The Opéra Grand Avignon and Théâtre du Chêne Noir both carry significant cultural weight and host various performances.

  • Religious Heritage:

    The city's past as a papal seat is seen in its churches and religious buildings beyond the main palace.

  • Architectural Marvels:

    The well-preserved medieval city walls are a significant architectural feature and an UNESCO site.

Natural Attractions

Avignon has natural beauty inside and just outside its walls, with green spaces and views.

Explore Avignon's Green Spaces

  • Rocher des Doms

    This park atop a rocky outcrop has the best panoramic views of the city and river. Also known as Jardin des Doms. Free entry, open during daylight hours. Good for sunsets. Has a cafe and playground. Access by stairs or tourist train/elevator.

  • Île de la Barthelasse

    A large island in the Rhône River, opposite Avignon's city center. It has green spaces, walking and cycling paths, and great views back to the city skyline. Avignon's green lung. Free access. Reach by free ferry or Pont Daladier.

  • Rhône River

    The river itself is a natural attraction. It has short river cruises, a relaxing way to experience the city's riverside charm and views of the historic bridge.

  • Green Escapes

    These natural areas offer a peaceful break from the city bustle, with opportunities for gentle strolls and enjoying the Provençal landscape.

  • Photo Opportunities

    The views from Rocher des Doms and Île de la Barthelasse are perfect for capturing Avignon's iconic skyline.

  • Family-Friendly

    Rocher des Doms has a playground for children, making it a good spot for families.

Musée Angladon

A private museum with works from Jacques Doucet's private collection, including a rare Van Gogh painting. An intimate museum experience.

Rue des Teinturiers

A picturesque street with plane trees, charming cafes, and historic waterwheels of the Sorgue River. A tranquil escape and look into the city's industrial past.

Les Carmes Church and Cloister

A beautiful Gothic church and its peaceful adjacent cloister, offering a quiet retreat from the city's crowds. The cloister's serene garden is a calm space for reflection.

Hidden Gems

Beyond the main tourist circuit, Avignon hides charming spots and lesser-known attractions that offer unique experiences and a connection to the city.

  • Musée Angladon: A private museum in an elegant mansion. Shows works from Jacques Doucet's private collection, including a rare Van Gogh painting. Entrance fee about €8. Limited opening hours.
  • Rue des Teinturiers: A picturesque street with plane trees, charming cafes, and historic waterwheels. Once the heart of Avignon's textile industry. A tranquil escape and look into the city's industrial past.
  • Les Carmes Church and Cloister: A beautiful Gothic church and its peaceful adjacent cloister, offering a quiet retreat. The cloister's serene garden is a calm space for reflection.

Beyond the City

While in Avignon, consider exploring areas nearby for additional attractions.

These locations are reachable for day trips and give varied experiences.

Day Trips for Art & History

Explore artistic and historical sites just a short journey from Avignon.

Hôtel de Caumont – Centre d'Art Aix-en-Provence

  • Located in Aix-en-Provence, it is a worthwhile day trip for art lovers.
  • Housed in a stunning 18th-century mansion.
  • Hosts high-quality temporary art exhibitions. A good alternative for a different artistic focus.

Natural Escapes Nearby

Discover the natural beauty surrounding Avignon, from rivers to islands.

Île de la Barthelasse

  • A large island in the Rhône River, opposite Avignon's city center.
  • Offers extensive green spaces, walking and cycling paths.
  • Provides excellent views back to the city skyline, including the Palais des Papes.

Exploring the Rhône

The Rhône River itself is a significant natural attraction.

Rhône River Activities

  • Offers opportunities for short river cruises.
  • A relaxing way to experience the city's riverside charm and views of the historic bridge.
  • The Véloroute ViaRhôna cycling path runs along the river.
  • Campsites are located along the river just outside Avignon.

General Exploration Tips

Make the most of your sightseeing with these practical tips.

Practical Advice

  • Walking is the best way to explore the historic city center and discover hidden gems.
  • Public transport (buses, tram) connect the city center with outer districts and nearby areas.
  • Consider renting a car for exploring the wider Provence region and more distant attractions.

Day Trip Highlights

Art and Culture Beyond Avignon

  • Hôtel de Caumont – Centre d'Art in Aix-en-Provence for art exhibitions.
  • A beautiful 18th-century mansion hosts varied artistic focus.
  • A good option for art lovers seeking more intimate experiences.

Natural Beauty Surrounding Avignon

  • Luberon Regional Natural Park for picturesque villages and hiking.
  • Les Alpilles Regional Natural Park for limestone hills and olive groves.
  • Fontaine-de-Vaucluse for kayaking on the Sorgue River.

Hidden Gems

Beyond the main tourist circuit, Avignon hides charming spots and lesser-known attractions.

Musée Angladon

A private museum in an elegant mansion. Shows works from Jacques Doucet's private collection, including a rare Van Gogh painting ("The Wagons"). An intimate museum experience.

Rue des Teinturiers

A picturesque street with plane trees, charming cafes, and historic waterwheels of the Sorgue River. Once the heart of Avignon's textile industry. A tranquil escape and look into the city's industrial past.

Les Carmes Church and Cloister

A beautiful Gothic church and its peaceful adjacent cloister, offering a quiet retreat from the city's crowds. The cloister's serene garden is a calm space for reflection.

Exploring Avignon's Character

Intimate Museum

Musée Angladon offers a more personal art experience compared to larger institutions.

Find Tickets

Historic Walk

Rue des Teinturiers is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with cafes and artisan shops.

Explore More

Peaceful Sanctuary

Les Carmes Church and Cloister provides a tranquil escape within the city walls.

Plan Visit

Art Day Trip

Hôtel de Caumont – Centre d'Art in Aix-en-Provence for a different art scene.

Discover Exhibitions

Beyond Avignon - Cultural

Explore artistic and historical sites just a short journey from Avignon.

Hôtel de Caumont – Centre d'Art

  • Located in Aix-en-Provence, it is a worthwhile day trip for art lovers.
  • Housed in a stunning 18th-century mansion.
  • Hosts high-quality temporary art exhibitions, a good alternative for a different artistic focus.

Beyond Avignon - Natural

Discover the natural beauty surrounding Avignon, from rivers to islands.

Île de la Barthelasse

  • A large island in the Rhône River, opposite Avignon's city center.
  • Offers extensive green spaces, walking and cycling paths.
  • Provides excellent views back to the city skyline, including the Palais des Papes.
  • It functions as Avignon's green lung, perfect for outdoor activities.

Exploring Tips

These spots offer unique experiences and a deep link to Avignon.

Walking is the best way to uncover these lesser-known treasures.

Planning Your Sightseeing

Booking Ahead

Book tickets for major attractions like Palais des Papes online to save time and secure entry, especially during peak season.

Timing Your Visit

Visit popular sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds and have a more peaceful experience.

Walking Friendly

Many of Avignon's attractions are within walking distance of each other within the city walls.

Additional Sightseeing Tips

Combined Tickets

Consider a combined ticket for the Palais des Papes and Pont d'Avignon for a slight discount.

Check Combined Offers

Interactive Guides

The Histopad at Palais des Papes greatly improves the visit with augmented reality reconstructions.

Learn More

Views from Rocher des Doms

Ideal for sunset photos, offering golden light over the city and river.

See Tours with Views

River Cruises

Short cruises on the Rhône are a relaxing way to see the city's riverside charm and historic bridge.

Book a Cruise

Explore Markets

Les Halles d'Avignon is a covered market, great for seeing local life and grabbing a bite.

Market Tours

Historic Significance

Avignon's history extends beyond its papal palace, with many other sites showing layers of its past.

Historical Dives

  • The well-preserved medieval city walls encircle the entire historic city, built for protection.
  • Place de l'Horloge, the main central square, is home to the City Hall and opera house, a lively gathering spot.
  • The Synagogue d'Avignon represents the history of one of France's oldest Jewish communities.

Natural Retreats

Avignon offers natural beauty within and just outside its walls, providing green spaces and scenic views.

Nature's Best

  • Rocher des Doms (Jardin des Doms) has breathtaking panoramic views of the Palais, Rhône, and distant hills.
  • Île de la Barthelasse, a large island in the Rhône, has extensive green spaces and walking paths.
  • The Rhône River itself offers opportunities for short river cruises.
  • These spaces provide a peaceful escape from the city's bustle.

Final Tip for Attractions

Consider a comprehensive tour that combines the main landmarks with some hidden gems for a fuller experience.

For convenience and guided insights, check GetYourGuide for available tours.

Hidden Gems & Day Trip Ideas

Beyond the main tourist circuit, Avignon hides charming spots and less-known attractions, and nearby areas are great for day trips.

Avignon's Secret Spots

Discover the quieter, artistic, and historical corners of Avignon.

Explore Quiet Beauty

  • Musée Angladon: A private museum with a rare Van Gogh painting. Intimate and special.
  • Rue des Teinturiers: Picturesque street with waterwheels, cafes, and artisan shops.
  • Les Carmes Church and Cloister: A peaceful Gothic church and cloister for quiet reflection.

Art & History Day Trips

Expand your cultural journey with a trip to nearby artistic centers.

Hôtel de Caumont – Centre d'Art

  • Located in Aix-en-Provence, a worthwhile day trip for art lovers.
  • Housed in a stunning 18th-century mansion, hosts high-quality temporary art exhibitions.
  • A good option for a slightly different artistic focus within easy reach.

Nature's Playground

The diverse landscapes around Avignon are good for various outdoor activities.

Outdoor Adventures

  • Hiking trails in Mont Ventoux, Luberon, and Les Alpilles.
  • Kayaking on the Sorgue River near Fontaine-de-Vaucluse.
  • Cycling on the Véloroute ViaRhôna or through local vineyards.

These activities are great for experiencing the Provençal landscape.

Wildlife Exploration

Discover unique ecosystems and wildlife a short drive from the city.

Camargue Regional Natural Park

  • A unique wetland area famous for diverse birdlife, including pink flamingos.
  • Home to distinctive white horses and black bulls.

Guided tours or self-driving routes are good for wildlife viewing.

Adrenaline & Thrills

For more intense adventures, venture a bit further from Avignon.

Verdon Gorge

  • Approximately a 2-hour drive east from Avignon.
  • Offers a range of thrill-seeking activities like whitewater rafting.
  • Canyoning is also a popular activity in this stunning natural gorge.

A perfect destination for high-adrenaline experiences.

Day Trip Planning Tips

Transportation

Consider renting a car for trips outside the city to reach regional parks and distant attractions.

Time Allocation

Allocate a full day for trips to places like Mont Ventoux or the Camargue, considering travel time.

Local Guides

For truffle hunting or specific wildlife tours, consider booking with a local guide for the best experience.

More Day Trip Ideas

For a wide range of tours and day trip options from Avignon, check GetYourGuide.