Well served by rail, Avignon is around 2 hours 40 minutes from Paris by TGV. Avignon can be explored on foot, through squares and lanes within the city walls. Monuments, museums and performances can fill several days. When choosing a B&B or holiday cottage, decide where to base your stay: near the centre to enjoy the city on foot, or in the surrounding area to alternate sightseeing and excursions.
The old town and its monuments
The Palais des Papes and its square provide a starting point for exploring the city. Old streets lead to Place de l’Horloge and Place Pie, then to Les Halles. The Petit Palais, Musée Calvet and Collection Lambert offer different visits to suit your interests. Towards the Rhône, the Pont Saint-Bénézet and Rocher des Doms extend your discovery of the city.
Barthelasse Island and the area around Avignon
Facing the city walls, the paths and riverbanks of Barthelasse Island lend themselves to walks or cycle rides, among orchards and views of the city. On the other bank, Villeneuve-lès-Avignon brings together lanes, the Chartreuse and Fort Saint-André.
The Côtes-du-Rhône vineyards, Luberon villages and Alpilles landscapes offer further excursions. Choose one area each day to leave time to enjoy the places rather than repeatedly travelling between neighbouring departments.
The Festival and cultural life
During the Festival d’Avignon and the Off, performances take place in the city’s theatres, courtyards and halls. Posters cover walls, café terraces become lively and evenings continue after the shows. During the rest of the year, museums, exhibitions and theatres also provide opportunities for a cultural stay.