Avignon: A Family Adventure in History, Culture, and Fun!

Discover Avignon, where history, culture, and family adventure intertwine.

29 August 2023

Avignon, France offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. The city's famous Palais des Papes and the Pont d'Avignon bridge provide a fascinating insight into medieval times, while the charming Old Town with its narrow streets and lively squares is ideal for exploring. Additionally, families can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Rhône River or visit the nearby picturesque villages of Les Baux-de-Provence and Gordes for a memorable day trip.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Avignon's Historic Treasures

  • Start your adventure by visiting the impressive Palais des Papes, a majestic Gothic palace that will transport you to medieval times.
  • Stroll through the charming streets of Avignon's old town, taking in the picturesque squares and admiring the beautifully preserved architecture.
  • Don't miss the chance to visit the famous Pont d'Avignon, a bridge that stops halfway across the river, allowing your imagination to run wild with legends of its incomplete construction.
  • Indulge your taste buds with traditional Provençal cuisine at La Mirande, renowned for its mouthwatering dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
  • End the day with a relaxing walk along the Rhône River, enjoying the enchanting views of the city as the sun sets.
Day 2

A Cultural Extravaganza

  • Immerse yourself in art at the Musée du Petit Palais, where a vast collection of paintings and sculptures from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance awaits.
  • Visit the renowned Festival d'Avignon, the city's annual theater festival, for a dose of creativity, avant-garde performances, and a chance to rub shoulders with artists from around the world.
  • Discover the eclectic collection of contemporary art at Collection Lambert, housed in a 17th-century mansion, where bold and thought-provoking works will leave you inspired.
  • Treat yourself to a Michelin-starred feast at Christian Etienne, an elegant restaurant offering a unique blend of traditional Provençal flavors with a modern twist.
  • Enjoy an evening stroll through Avignon's streets, where buskers and street performers add an eccentric touch to the vibrant atmosphere.
Day 3

Journey to Vineyard Heaven

  • Embark on a wine-tasting adventure in the nearby Châteauneuf-du-Pape region, where vineyards span as far as the eye can see.
  • Visit family-owned Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe, known for its exceptional red wines, and let the knowledgeable vintners guide you through a tasting that will captivate your senses.
  • Explore the charming village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, with its quaint cobblestone streets and lovely boutiques, ideal for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
  • Indulge in a long lunch at La Table du Comtat, a cozy restaurant where hearty Provençal specialties perfectly complement the robust flavors of the local wines.
  • Complete the experience by purchasing a bottle (or two!) of your favorite wine to savor back in Avignon.
Day 4

Serenity in Nature's Embrace

  • Escape the city's hustle and bustle for an idyllic day trip to the nearby Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct set amidst stunning natural surroundings.
  • Take a refreshing swim in the clear, aquamarine waters of the river just below the majestic aqueduct, letting the coolness wash away any remnants of city stress.
  • Pack a picnic filled with local delicacies and bask in the serenity of the Pont du Gard, soaking in the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Hike the nearby trails, meandering through fragrant pine forests and discovering hidden viewpoints that offer breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding countryside.
  • As the day draws to a close, revel in a farewell dinner at L'Agape, a charming restaurant serving dishes bursting with Provençal flavors, bidding adieu to Avignon with a satisfied belly.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Avignon by plane is to fly to Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) and then take a direct train from Marseille to Avignon. The train journey takes approximately 30 minutes.

Car

Driving to Avignon is also an option. You can take the A7 highway from Lyon or the A9 highway from Montpellier. Avignon is well-connected by road and has several parking options available.

Train

To reach Avignon by train, you can take a high-speed train (TGV) from Paris-Gare de Lyon station directly to Avignon TGV station. The journey takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes.

Boat

Unfortunately, Avignon is not accessible by boat as it is an inland city. It is situated on the banks of the Rhône River, but there are no direct routes to Avignon by boat.

Bus

If you prefer to travel by bus, you can take a FlixBus from Paris to Avignon. The bus journey usually takes approximately 7 to 8 hours depending on traffic conditions.

More travel plans

A Taste of Avignon: 4 Days of History, Art, and Delight

Avignon is a captivating city located in the south of France and is famous for its rich history and stunning architecture. As a tourist, you can explore the majestic Palais des Papes, an enormous medieval fortress and the seat of the Catholic Popes in the 14th century. Stroll through the charming narrow streets, visit the famous Pont d'Avignon, and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene, filled with art galleries, museums, and lively street performances.

Avignon Unveiled: A Budget-Friendly 3-Day Adventure

Explore the charming city of Avignon, France on a limited budget with its affordable accommodations and dining options. Immerse yourself in history and culture by visiting the stunning Palais des Papes and Pont d'Avignon, both offering discounted admission for budget travelers. Take advantage of the free walking tours and beautiful public gardens to fully experience the beauty and heritage of this picturesque city without breaking the bank.

2 Days in Avignon: Unleashing History, Art, and Delight

Experience the rich historical and cultural heritage of Avignon, France. Marvel at the majestic Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in Europe, and wander through the charming streets of the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene, taste exquisite Provencal cuisine, and explore the nearby picturesque villages of the Rhône Valley for an unforgettable trip.

Avignon: Unleash Your Inner Medieval Explorer

Avignon, located in southeastern France, offers a mesmerizing blend of history and art. With its famous Palais des Papes, a magnificent medieval palace, and the iconic Pont d'Avignon, a bridge shrouded in legends, history enthusiasts will be delighted. Art lovers can explore the renowned Avignon Festival, an annual cultural extravaganza showcasing theater and performing arts from around the world.