Avignon

Home to the impressive Palais des Papes (Papal Palace) and surrounded by 14th-century ramparts, Avignon is a historic gateway to Provence filled with medieval charm. The city's cultural heritage, vibrant squares, and strategic location make it essential for understanding the region's history.

Things to do

• Palais des Papes — Tour the sprawling 14th-century papal palace, one of the largest Gothic buildings in Europe, and explore its ornate chambers and frescoed halls.
• Ramparts Walk — Stroll along the complete 14th-century defensive walls that encircle the old town, offering views of the Rhône River and surrounding Provence.
• Pont d'Avignon — Visit the famous broken bridge (Pont Saint-Bénézet) that extends partially into the Rhône, immortalized in the French nursery rhyme.
• Place de l'Horloge — Relax in Avignon's main square lined with cafés, restaurants, and the ornate Town Hall, perfect for people-watching and soaking up local life.
• Musée du Palais des Papes — Discover medieval art, tapestries, and frescoes within the palace itself, showcasing the artistic treasures accumulated during papal rule.
• Collection Lambert — Explore contemporary art in a beautifully renovated 18th-century mansion, featuring rotating exhibitions of modern and contemporary works.

Food to try

• Pepes — Savor these small square-shaped pastries filled with meat or vegetables, a traditional Avignon specialty sold in local bakeries and street markets.
• Brandade de Morue — Try this creamy Provençal dish of salt cod purée blended with olive oil and garlic, often served on toasted bread as an appetizer.
• Daube Provençale — Sample this slow-braised beef stew flavored with red wine, tomatoes, and herbs from the Provence region, perfect comfort food in local bistros.
• Melons from Cavaillon — Taste the legendary sweet cantaloupes grown in nearby Cavaillon, available fresh at Avignon's Saturday market from summer through early autumn.
• Local Rosé Wine — Enjoy the crisp, dry rosé wines produced throughout the Provence region surrounding Avignon, served chilled in cafés throughout the city.

Local customs & good to know

• Festival d'Avignon Timing — Visit in July for the world-renowned theater festival that transforms the city with performances, though expect larger crowds and higher prices.
• Siesta Culture — Many shops close between noon and 2 pm for lunch, so plan activities accordingly and embrace the local rhythm of dining leisurely rather than rushing.
• Saturday Market Tradition — Arrive early at the Saturday morning market to experience authentic Provençal food culture and shop for fresh produce, cheeses, and local specialties alongside locals.
• Respect the Papal History — Remember Avignon's significance as the papal seat from 1309-1377 when exploring churches and religious sites, and dress modestly when entering sacred spaces.