Avignon Adventure: A 5-Day Journey Through Provence
Uncover the Provençal charm of Avignon, where history, culture, and natural beauty collide.
29 August 2023
Raymonde Gagnon
France Travel Writer
Avignon, located in the heart of Provence, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Exploring the charming medieval city, be sure to visit the iconic Palais des Papes, one of Europe's largest Gothic palaces. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets, savor mouthwatering Provençal cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene, with the annual Avignon Theatre Festival being a highlight for theater enthusiasts.
Travel plan
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- Check into the charming Hôtel de Garlande, a 16th-century townhouse nestled in the heart of the city.
- Wander through Les Halles, the vibrant covered market, where sensational smells and colorful produce will tempt every foodie's senses.
- Unleash your inner art lover at the Musée du Petit Palais, home to an impressive collection of medieval and Renaissance masterpieces.
- Savor a slice of heaven at Pâtisserie Vernet, where delicate macarons and flaky croissants will transport your taste buds to cloud nine.
- Lace up your walking shoes and explore Avignon's impressive city walls, offering panoramic views of the city's architectural wonders.
- Begin your day by visiting the mind-blowing Palais des Papes, looming over Avignon with its awe-inspiring grandeur. Get lost in its labyrinthine halls and imagine the extravagant lives of papal history.
- Take a leisurely stroll across Saint-Bénézet Bridge, better known as Pont d'Avignon, and let yourself be carried away by the enchanting Rhône River.
- Indulge your taste buds with a culinary journey at La Mirande, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering divine Provençal cuisine.
- Immerse yourself in history at the Collection Lambert, a contemporary art museum housed in a private mansion, where works by Picasso, Warhol, and more will ignite your imagination.
- End your day with a leisurely evening walk along the Rhône, as the golden sunset paints the sky in hues that would make Monet jealous.
- Embark on a day trip to the charming village of Gordes, perched on a hilltop like a fairytale diorama. Lose yourself in its enchanting winding streets and soak in the breathtaking Provencal landscapes.
- Visit the Abbey of Sénanque, a centuries-old Cistercian jewel tucked away in a lavender-filled valley.
- Delight your palate with a leisurely lunch at Mas Tourteron, a rustic farmhouse restaurant offering farm-to-table delicacies.
- Continue your journey to Roussillon, with its ochre cliffs radiating earthy hues fit for an artist's palette. Stroll through its vibrant streets and discover the secrets of its artistic heritage.
- Return to Avignon and treat yourself to a "Fromage and Wine" tasting experience at La Part des Anges, a cozy bar offering an exquisite selection of local cheeses and wines.
- Embark on a wine tasting adventure to the neighboring Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyards, where centuries of winemaking tradition have created liquid masterpieces.
- Visit the iconic Château de la Gardine, where you'll learn about the secrets of winemaking and indulge in the rich flavors of their renowned vintages.
- Discover the Côtes du Rhône wine region at Domaine de la Janasse, known for its exceptional reds and whites. Sip, savor, and let the wine transport you to vinous nirvana.
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Le Châteaubriand, a hidden gem offering delectable Provençal cuisine paired with local wines.
- Return to Avignon and embrace the lively atmosphere of Place de l'Horloge, where you can unwind with a glass of wine while reveling in the vibrant street performances.
- Explore the tranquil Rocher des Doms, a picturesque hill crowned by beautiful gardens. Take in the breathtaking views of the city and the Rhône River.
- Dive into Avignon's natural wonders at the Jardin des Doms, where lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and hidden corners await to be discovered.
- Indulge in a leisurely picnic lunch by the river, savoring the flavors of local delicacies and the soothing sounds of the flowing Rhône.
- Take a boat cruise along the river and let the gentle breeze carry you past the mesmerizing landscapes of Provence.
- Bid farewell to Avignon with a splendid dinner at La Fourchette, a cozy restaurant where modern creativity meets traditional Provençal cuisine.
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.