· FR

Avignon

Avignon, Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur, France

Step Back in Time in Avignon, the City of Popes Avignon, a captivating city in the heart of Provence, whispers tales of medieval grandeur and artistic passion. Once home to seven popes in the 14th century, Avignon's leg…

#Historic city#Papal Palace#Medieval architecture#Cultural heritage#Festival city

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Avignon.

Top Hotels in Avignon

Top Flights to Avignon

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Avignon.

Tours

Palais des Papes Visit

Explore one of Avignon's most iconic landmarks, the Palais des Papes, with its stunning architecture and rich history from the 14th century when it was home to several popes.

Pont Saint-Bénézet Walk

Take a leisurely walk on the renowned medieval bridge, the Pont Saint-Bénézet, while enjoying scenic views of the Rhône River and the city of Avignon.

Outdoor

Wine Tasting Tour in Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Explore the renowned vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Enjoy guided tastings and learn about the history and production of these famous wines.

Evening Stroll at Rocher des Doms

Enjoy a serene walk in the beautiful Rocher des Doms garden, offering panoramic views of the Rhône river and a peaceful escape in the heart of Avignon.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Avignon.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

As of the most recent estimates, the approximate total population of Avignon is around 92,000.

Average weather

Avignon

Jan

9°1°

Feb

11°2°

Mar

15°4°

Apr

18°7°

May

22°11°

Jun

27°15°

Jul

30°18°

Aug

30°18°

Sep

26°15°

Oct

20°10°

Nov

13°5°

Dec

9°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Avignon.

What people love

Avignon, located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of France, is a beautiful and historic city with plenty of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Some of the pros of traveling to Avignon include:

Rich history: Avignon is known for its historical significance, particularly as the seat of the papacy in the 14th century. Visitors can explore the impressive Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) and the Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Cultural events: Avignon is famous for its annual theatre festival, the Festival d'Avignon, which takes place in July and attracts performers and spectators from around the world. The city also hosts various cultural events, art exhibitions, and concerts throughout the year.
Charming old town: Avignon's old town is a maze of narrow streets, historic buildings, and lively squares. Visitors can wander through the picturesque cobblestone streets, visit charming cafes and boutiques, and soak in the atmosphere of this medieval city.
Gastronomy: Provence is known for its delicious cuisine, and Avignon is no exception. Visitors can sample local specialties such as ratatouille, bouillabaisse, and lavender-infused dishes at the city's many restaurants and cafes.
Proximity to other attractions: Avignon is a great base for exploring the Provence region, with its picturesque villages, vineyards, and lavender fields. Nearby attractions include the Pont du Gard Roman aqueduct, the Luberon Valley, and the charming town of Arles.

Overall, Avignon offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes it a popular destination for travelers seeking an authentic Provencal experience.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Avignon, France, include:

Limited public transportation options: Avignon is a relatively small city, and while it does have a public transportation system, it may not be as extensive or convenient as in larger cities. This could make getting around the city and its surrounding areas a bit more challenging.
Crowds and tourist congestion: Avignon is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months when the famous Avignon Festival takes place. This could lead to crowded streets, long lines at tourist attractions, and difficulty finding accommodations.
Language barrier: While many people in Avignon, especially those working in the tourism industry, may speak English, the primary language spoken in the region is French. Travelers who do not speak French may encounter some challenges communicating with locals.
High prices: Like many tourist destinations in Europe, prices in Avignon can be higher than in other parts of France. Travelers may find that accommodations, dining, and attractions are more expensive than they expected.
Limited nightlife: While Avignon has a vibrant cultural scene, including theaters, museums, and art galleries, the city may not offer as bustling a nightlife as larger cities like Paris or Marseille. Travelers looking for a lively nightlife scene may be disappointed.

Overall, these potential cons should be taken into consideration when planning a trip to Avignon.

Avignon, located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of southeastern France, boasts a rich and varied history. The city is most renowned for its period as the seat of the papacy in the 14th century, but its significance stretches back much further.

Early History

Avignon's origins can be traced back to the Neolithic period, with evidence of a Celtic-Ligurian settlement known as Avenio. It later became a Roman city in the 1st century BC, serving as a vital center due to its strategic position on the Rhône River.

Medieval Era

In the Middle Ages, Avignon was part of the Kingdom of Arles before becoming a free city in the 12th century. Its strategic location made it a site of interest for various French and papal forces.

Papal Residency (1309-1377)

The most pivotal period in Avignon's history began in 1309 when Pope Clement V moved the Papal Curia to the city, initiating the Avignon Papacy. For nearly 70 years, Avignon served as the seat of the Roman Catholic Church, with seven popes residing there. The residency of the popes led to the construction of the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), a massive Gothic fortress and symbol of the papal authority. This period ended in 1377 when Pope Gregory XI returned the papacy to Rome.

Western Schism (1378-1417)

After the papacy returned to Rome, the Western Schism ensued, with antipopes residing in Avignon, further complicating the city’s religious and political landscape.

Integration into France

In 1791, during the French Revolution, Avignon was incorporated into France following a referendum. This marked the end of its status as a papal territory.

19th and 20th Centuries

The 19th century saw Avignon develop as a commercial and agricultural center. During World War II, the city suffered damage, but many of its historic structures remained intact.

Modern Avignon

Today, Avignon is famed for its annual Festival d'Avignon, a major arts festival established in 1947. It attracts numerous visitors each year, contributing to the city's vibrant cultural life.

Significant Landmarks

Palais des Papes: A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe.
Pont Saint-Bénézet (Pont d’Avignon): Famous for the nursery rhyme “Sur le pont d’Avignon,” the bridge is a significant historical monument, though only a few arches remain today.
Avignon Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms d'Avignon): A Romanesque cathedral dating back to the 12th century with later Gothic additions.
Ramparts of Avignon: The city walls, largely intact, were built in the 14th century to protect the city during the turbulent times of the papacy.

Conclusion

Avignon's history is deeply intertwined with its religious importance and its strategic location in France. Its rich cultural heritage is reflected in its architecture, festivals, and ongoing significance as a center for the arts and history.