City Breaks in Avignon - Enjoy a Charming Medieval City Full of Surprises
The city of Avignon is the capital of Vaucluse département in the South of France and sits on the left bank of the River Rhône. It has long been a popular short break destination due to its wonderful historic monuments and good range of public amenities. Its most enduring images are the Pont St Bénezet - the 13th century bridge that spans the river and the Palais des Papes, the sumptuous 14th century papal residence and fortress during Avignon's brief tenure as the home of Christianity. The city is compact and easy to navigate and strolling around its maze of medieval streets will encounter a cluster of interesting little museums, cafes, vibrant market stalls and eccentric little medieval chapels.

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Avignon City Breaks - Spectacular Historic Monuments To Discover
The very regal Palais des Papes marks the city skyline with a series of elegant and ornate spires and was amazingly carved out of solid rock. It is an extremely well preserved structure that will be a highlight of any city break in Avignon and houses many colourful frescoes and tapestries. Standing adjacent and almost dwarfed by the Palais des Papes is the Notre Dame des Doms, the city cathedral which is even older and makes an inspiring visit for anyone interested in history. Its most prominent feature is a wonderful gilded statue of the Virgin Mary and houses the mausoleum of Pope John XXII. Other impressive historic sites include the 16th century Hôtel des Monnaies and the Opera House, both situated in the vibrant Place de l'Horloge.

City Breaks in Avignon - A City of Vibrant Cultural Events
A short break in Avignon during the summer will see the city come alive with the celebrated Avignon Festival featuring mainstream and fringe theatre, music, opera, film and cultural events spanning every conceivable genre. The city also has 30 theatres and cinemas, a renowned Opera House and vibrant nightly entertainment. Shopping is always a pleasure with everything from designer boutiques and open air markets and the number of museums and galleries per capita is one of the highest of any city in France affording it a rich cultural diversity.