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

Unveil the charm of Avignon, where history and beauty intertwine.

29 August 2023

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.

Travel plan

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Day 1

The Papal Palace and Picassos

  • Start your day with a visit to the majestic Papal Palace, a fortress of history and scandalous tales. Walk amongst ancient walls and feel the weight of power and intrigue that once filled these halls.
  • Indulge your artistic senses at the Collection Lambert, where the contemporary art scene collides with Avignon's rich past. Prepare to have your mind bent and twisted in the most delightful way imaginable.
  • Reward yourself with a panoramic view of the city from Rocher des Doms. Feel as though you’re standing on the edge of the universe, or at least on the edge of the Rhône River.
  • Dive into Provençal flavors at Lou Mistrau, a charming restaurant housed in a former fisherman’s cottage. Savor the mouthwatering bouillabaisse, and let the Mediterranean essence transport you to a simpler, more delicious time.
  • Toast to the first day of your Avignon adventure with a glass of fine wine at Le Palace. The rich reds and smooth whites will dance on your palate, leaving you yearning for a never-ending journey through the vineyards of France.
Day 2

The Charms of Les Halles

  • Start your morning with the enticing aromas of fresh produce and baked goods at Les Halles, Avignon's bustling food market. Let the scents guide you through a maze of local delicacies.
  • Immerse yourself in the artistic world of Vincent van Gogh at the Collection Lambert, where his masterpieces intertwine with Avignon's avant-garde spirit. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and maybe a little bit starstruck.
  • Take a leisurely walk along the Rhône River, where the whispers of centuries past hang in the air. Let your imagination run wild as you stroll, and marvel at the bridges that have connected people for generations.
  • Savor the flavors of Provence at La Table du Meunier, a cozy bistro nestled in a charming alley. Let the exquisite combinations of local ingredients dance on your taste buds, leaving you craving for more.
  • End your day with a theatrical performance at the historic Théâtre des Halles. Lose yourself in the magic of live performance, as actors transport you to another world. Laughter, tears, and unforgettable memories await.
Day 3

Time Travel in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon

  • Embark on a short boat ride across the Rhône River to Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, where time has stood still. Lose yourself in the narrow medieval streets and imagine the tales hidden within these ancient walls.
  • Discover the secrets of the Chartreuse de Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, an imposing Carthusian monastery. Let the silence and grandeur consume you as you explore the echoing halls and lush gardens.
  • Ascend to the Tour Philippe le Bel and gaze upon a panoramic view that stretches even beyond the reach of your imagination. Inhale deeply and feel as though you’re inhaling the essence of history itself.
  • Recharge your senses and enjoy a leisurely lunch at Les Vents d'Anges, a charming restaurant with a stunning garden terrace. Savor the fusion of timeless flavors and admire the beauty of nature.
  • Wander through the majestic Fort Saint-André, a medieval fortress sitting proudly atop a hill. Let the atmosphere whisk you away to a bygone era, and revel in the tranquility that comes with being kings and queens of your own castle.
Day 4

Discovering Avignon's Gardens

  • Begin your day with a visit to the Jardin des Doms, a lush oasis perched high above the city. Allow the soft murmur of fountains and the aromatic scents of flowers to transport you to a state of pure bliss.
  • Explore the Parc Rocher des Doms, where art meets nature in perfect harmony. Admire sculptures dotting the landscape, and let the gentle breeze whisper stories into your ears.
  • Uncover hidden treasures at the Calvet Museum, where art and history intertwine to create a symphony of curiosity. Lose yourself in the depths of each exhibit, and let your imagination get carried away.
  • Delight your taste buds with the flavors of Provence at Restaurant Christian Etienne, a gastronomic haven housed in a 16th-century mansion. Let award-winning cuisine and exquisite wines take you on a whirlwind culinary adventure.
  • Bid adieu to Avignon with a sunset boat cruise along the Rhône River. Let the golden hues of the sky reflect in your eyes, and let your heart be filled with memories of a city that will forever hold a piece of your soul.

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.

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