Avignon City Breaks

A guide to Avignon

Avignon is one of the most important and prestigious cities in the south of France, and therefore a popular choice for a visit. The city streets are sprinkled with a collection of ancient facades, elegant mansions and bright new buildings, and visitors to Avignon can explore a wealth of fine museums and churches, especially in the vicinity of bustling Place du Palais. All roads lead to Avignon during the summer, as the world famous Theatre Festival kicks off in July - a three week extravaganza of open air street theatre, cultured classical drama and a vibrant carnival atmosphere.

Spectacular and historic fortified city

The city is an endearing mix of continental chic and enchanting medieval splendour, and has a typically languid continental pace of life, perfect for sightseeing. Imposing city walls still surround the city, which is famed as the medieval seat of a succession of Popes. The most prominent attraction here is the monumental Palais des Papes, a stunning fortified palace, and the iconic bridge, Pont d’Avignon, a crumbling structure that exudes a magical charm.

Fine dining and a laid-back cafe culture

Those with a little time to spare should venture out into the glorious Provence countryside and explore enchanting Roman history in Arles, Nimes or a visit to the spectacular Roman aquaduct of Le Pont du Gard, all of which are easily accessible from Avignon. Wine connoisseurs can indulge their passion at the famous Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyards, and yet more epicurian delights can be found in bustling Place de l’Horlage, scene of the city’s vibrant café culture and home to some of the finest dining establishments in the South of France. Visitors can really soak up a riveting social atmosphere on warm summery nights, to the sounds of clinking wine glasses, animated chat and mellow jazz musicians.