Avignon Adventure: 4 Days of Budget-Friendly Fun
Discover the charm of Avignon on a shoestring with affordable adventures in the heart of France.
29 August 2023
Raymonde Gagnon
France Travel Writer
Avignon, nestled in the picturesque Provence region of France, offers an incredible travel experience even for those on a limited budget. Explore the stunning historic attractions such as the Palais des Papes and Pont d'Avignon, which are free to admire from the outside. Indulge in affordable local cuisine at charming neighborhood restaurants, and take advantage of budget-friendly accommodation options like hostels or budget hotels. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and affordability, Avignon is an ideal destination for a memorable trip without breaking the bank.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information

- Wake up and grab a sweet, buttery croissant from a local bakery to start the day right.
- Wander through the medieval streets of the Old Town, stumbling upon charming squares and secret passageways.
- Don't miss the awe-inspiring Palais des Papes, a colossal Gothic palace that will make you feel like a medieval royal.
- Take a break at the peaceful Rocher des Doms gardens, where you can soak in panoramic views of the Rhône River and Mont Ventoux.
- Dive into Avignon's vibrant artsy scene with a visit to the Collection Lambert, an avant-garde contemporary art museum.
- Treat yourself to a mouthwatering Provençal dinner at La Fourchette, where local flavors dance on your taste buds.
- Fuel up with a rich cappuccino and freshly baked baguette at a cozy café before heading out of Avignon.
- Take a short bus ride to Pont du Gard, a Roman marvel and UNESCO World Heritage site that will leave you breathless.
- Unleash your inner explorer and hike along the riverbanks, or go for a refreshing dip in the emerald waters beneath the stone arches.
- Picnic like the French do by packing a baguette, local cheese, and a bottle of crisp Côtes du Rhône wine.
- Marvel at the fascinating museum showcasing the history of this ancient aqueduct before catching the bus back to Avignon.
- Satisfy your cravings with a decadent dinner at L'Agape, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving up contemporary French cuisine.
- Kick-start your day with a steaming café au lait and fluffy croissants at a timeless local café.
- Blend with the locals as you stroll through the bustling Les Halles market, tasting fragrant lavender honey and tangy goat cheese.
- Escape the city's hustle and bustle with a visit to the charming village of Gordes, perched high on the Luberon hills.
- Soak in the Provencal charm and wander through labyrinthine streets lined with art galleries and boutiques.
- Indulge in a leisurely lunch at La Trinquette, where the flavors of Provençal cuisine come alive in every delicious bite.
- Return to Avignon and experience a slice of the vibrant nightlife scene at L'Avignon Café, with live music and a buzzing atmosphere.
- Relish a delectable pain au chocolat and freshly brewed espresso as you plan your day ahead.
- Explore the majestic Musée Calvet, a treasure trove of fine arts ranging from classical sculpture to contemporary masterpieces.
- Meander along the Rhône River's banks, watching the world go by and admiring the picturesque Pont Saint-Bénézet.
- Unwind in the beautiful Jardin des Doms, where lush greenery and fragrant flowers transport you to a tranquil paradise.
- Dive into Avignon's rich history with a visit to the Musée du Petit Palais, showcasing exceptional religious artworks.
- End your delightful stay by savoring a traditional Provençal dinner at the charming Le Tinel, where rustic flavors take center stage.
Length of stay
Type of trip
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.