Avignon travel guide

Photo of Avignon, France by Gilles Lagnel
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Introduction to Avignon

Avignon is a destination known for attractions like Palais des Papes, Jardin des Doms, and Collection Lambert Avignon. Travelers who visit this commune in Vaucluse, France are often fascinated by the rich history and interesting culture it offers. We recommend taking the time to explore this city in France on foot and walk alongside the over 91.1 thousand locals who live in Avignon. You’ll quickly discover you’re surrounded by endless numbers of things to see and do.

Easily accessible from Avignon – Provence airport, Avignon is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in France any time of the year.

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Avignon as you explore this spectacular city.

Traveling to Avignon is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Avignon below!

History of Avignon

Avignon, often referred to as the 'City of Popes,' boasts a rich history that stretches back to the Neolithic period.

Situated on the left bank of the Rhône river, Avignon became a Roman colony in the 1st century BC. Its strategic location made it an important trade and communication hub.

During the Middle Ages, Avignon's significance rose dramatically when it was chosen as the seat of the papacy. From 1309 to 1377, seven successive popes resided in Avignon, marking a period known as the Avignon Papacy.

The city's historic centre, encompassing the Pope's Palace, the cathedral, and the Pont d'Avignon, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995, testifying to its historical importance.

Today, Avignon remains a symbol of medieval grandeur, attracting travellers from around the world who wish to soak in its rich cultural heritage.

Local culture and customs in Avignon

Avignon is a city steeped in history and culture, with a tangible air of Provencal charm. The locals, known as 'Avignonnais', are proud of their heritage and often express this through art, music, and theatre. The city is renowned for its annual Avignon Theatre Festival, which attracts performers and spectators from around the world, turning the city into a vibrant cultural hub.

French is the primary language, but don't be surprised to hear the melodic tones of the local Provençal dialect. A simple 'Bonjour' when entering a shop or restaurant is an appreciated local custom. The city's cuisine is heavily influenced by the Mediterranean, with local dishes often featuring olives, tomatoes, and local herbs. Try the region's signature dish, 'daube provençale', a slow-cooked beef stew with red wine.

Religion plays a significant role in the city's customs, with the historic Popes' Palace standing as a testament to its religious past. When visiting churches or religious events, appropriate attire is expected. Don't forget to explore the local markets to immerse in the city's culture and meet the locals. Remember, it's polite to exchange pleasantries before diving into transactions.

Currency information for travelers in Avignon

The local currency in Avignon, like the rest of France, is the Euro (€). Banknotes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500, while coins come in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cent and 1, 2 Euro denominations.

Credit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard, are widely accepted in most shops, restaurants, and hotels. Note that American Express is less commonly accepted. ATMs are easy to find, and they offer a convenient way to access cash. Remember to notify your home bank about your travel plans to avoid card suspensions.

It's also worth noting that tipping is not a common practice in Avignon as service charge is typically included in the bill. However, it is customary to leave small change for good service. Budget wisely, keeping in mind the average cost of meals and transportation in the city.

Language tips for travelers in Avignon

When traveling in Avignon, you'll find that French is the main language spoken, with regional variants and accents. It's recommended to learn a few basic French phrases, like 'Bonjour' (Good day), 'Merci' (Thank you), and 'Où est...?' (Where is...?). English is understood by many, especially in tourist areas, but not everyone is fluent, so having a translation app on hand can be helpful. Remember, it's considered polite to start any conversation with 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' (Good evening), even when entering shops. Lastly, the French appreciate efforts to speak their language, so don't be shy to try out your French, even if it's not perfect.

Best time to visit Avignon

The best time to explore Avignon, France is during the late spring (May and June) and early autumn (September and October). These periods offer mild, pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing, while avoiding the peak summer crowds of July and August. The city is particularly vibrant in July when the annual Avignon Festival, a renowned arts event, takes place. However, it also attracts large numbers of visitors, so advanced booking is recommended for this time. If you prefer a quieter visit, consider the gentle warmth of May or the mellow autumn in September. Both periods promise lower tourist numbers, making it easier to appreciate Avignon's historic charm and cultural richness. Whether you are wandering through the Palais des Papes, basking in the beauty of the Pont Saint-Bénezet, or strolling through the local markets, choosing the right season will enhance your Avignon experience.

Weather in Avignon

Avignon enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The average temperature in summer, from June to August, ranges from 20°C to 30°C. However, heatwaves exceeding 35°C are not uncommon. Winter, running from December to February, sees temperatures typically between 3°C and 12°C.

Spring, between March and May, and autumn, from September to November, are transitional seasons with mild and generally pleasant weather. Rain is more frequent during spring and autumn but typically light and brief. Avignon can experience the Mistral, a strong, cold wind coming from the north, especially during the winter and spring. It can be particularly intense and chilly, so it's recommended to pack some warm and windproof clothing if you're visiting in these seasons. Despite this, Avignon boasts 2800 hours of sunshine a year, making it a bright and inviting destination most of the time.

Local tip for visiting Avignon

One insider tip for visiting Avignon is to explore the city's vibrant markets. While most tourists know about the famous Les Halles market, locals recommend the smaller, lesser-known Marché de la Place Pie. It's a charming outdoor market that operates every Tuesday through Sunday from early morning until 1:30 pm. Here, you'll find a variety of local products including fresh produce, bread, cheese, and meats. In addition to food, there are also vendors selling flowers, local crafts, and antiques. It's an authentic experience that allows you to enjoy Avignon like a local. Plus, it's an ideal place to pick up picnic provisions if you plan to enjoy a day out in the Provençal countryside. Remember, the key to a successful visit is to arrive early before it gets too crowded, just like the locals do.

Top services in Avignon

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Avignon, France. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 23 airlines that fly to France. Browse the 55 top-rated tours available to you in Avignon. Compare the rates and services of the 5 types of places to stay in Avignon and the 8 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Avignon.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Avignon, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Avignon on your vacation in France.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Avignon from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Avignon!

Learn more about France

There are many reasons to visit the city of Avignon, but a trip to France needs no explanation.

Exploring France, which spans 643,801 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. France offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Palais des Papes, Jardin des Doms, and the Collection Lambert Avignon, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in France.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about France.

What to see in Avignon

Photo of Avignon, France by Gilles Lagnel

Avignon has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Avignon.

Top attractions in Avignon

Home to plenty of top attractions, Avignon is more than just a wonderful city in France. Avignon is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of France.

One fascinating sight in Avignon is the unforgettable Palais des Papes. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Avignon. This remarkable attraction is located at Pl. Du Palais, 84000 Avignon, France and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 10:00-17:00.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in France, check out our list of top attractions in Avignon below. Discover the best places to visit in Avignon, including the fascinating Palais des Papes, Jardin des Doms, Collection Lambert Avignon, Musée Calvet, and Musée Lapidaire.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Avignon.

Things to do in Avignon

Photo of Avignon, France by Marcel Dominic

Enrich your travel experience in Avignon by joining tours and activities. Avignon offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Avignon below.

Most popular experiences in Avignon

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Avignon.

Avignon offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Bus Tours, Private Day Trips, and Guided Day Trips are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in France.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Avignon by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Avignon

Travelers in Avignon can choose from 18 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. If you're curious about what the most frequently recommended experiences in the city are, Tours by vehicle is the answer.

The most popular tour in Avignon is the fantastic Luberon Small-Group Day Trip from Avignon. By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Avignon one of the best travel destinations in France.

Avignon also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Wine tasting in Sablet is the cheapest tour in the city. This experience costs around 3 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Avignon. Around 3 travelers have given this activity an average rating of 5 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Avignon and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Avignon below.

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Search for things to do in Avignon

Discover the best things to do in Avignon. Choose from 55 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Avignon. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Avignon

Embark on a culinary journey in Avignon, a city known for its rich cuisine and fine dining culture. The best places to eat in Avignon range from bustling food markets, such as Les Halles, to high-end restaurants like La Mirande. In these establishments, traditional Provencal dishes, such as Daube Provençale (a red wine stew) and Ratatouille (a vegetable medley) are a must-try. Street food, like the iconic French crepes and fougasse (a type of bread), are also a testament to Avignon's gastronomic diversity. For a more refined experience, head to Rue des Teinturiers, a dining district renowned for its upscale restaurants offering delicacies like truffles and foie gras. Don't miss out on Avignon's sweet treats either, particularly the papalines, a local chocolate delicacy. Pair your meals with the region’s famous Côtes du Rhône wine for a truly authentic Avignon dining experience. No matter your culinary preferences, Avignon's vibrant food scene promises an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.

Best shopping in Avignon

Shopping enthusiasts will delight in Avignon, known for its delightful blend of historic charm and contemporary chic. Rue de la République, the city's main shopping artery, is the best place to go shopping in Avignon. Here, you'll find a variety of shops, from high-street fashion brands to quaint boutiques offering unique finds.

Don't miss the Les Halles market, a food lover’s paradise filled with fresh, local produce and gourmet treats. For an authentic shopping experience, explore the smaller streets around Place de l’Horloge, where artisans sell handmade jewelry, ceramics, and textiles, reflecting Avignon's rich cultural heritage.

Avignon's distinct fashion scene is a blend of classic French elegance and Provencal charm. Look for locally designed clothing, lavender-scented soaps, and crafted souvenirs to take a piece of Avignon back home.

Most stores open around 10 am and close by 7 pm, with a break between 12 and 2 pm. Remember to carry cash as some smaller shops do not accept cards. Shopping in Avignon is not just about buying, it’s about immersing yourself in the city's unique artistry and craftsmanship.

Best Free Things to Do in Avignon

Immerse yourself in the charm and history of Avignon without spending a dime. One of the best free things to do in Avignon is to stroll through the Place de l'Horloge, the city's bustling main square, where you can enjoy the vibrant café culture and street performers. Don't miss the Rocher des Doms, a beautiful park offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Rhone river and the famous Pont d'Avignon. Explore the medieval walls that encircle the old city, taking you back to the 14th century when Avignon was the seat of the Catholic papacy. The Petit Palais Museum offers free admission on the first Sunday of the month, showcasing an impressive collection of Renaissance paintings and sculptures. Lastly, immerse yourself in local culture by visiting the Les Halles market; while not technically free, as you might be tempted by the mouthwatering local produce and foodstuffs, it provides a rich sensory experience that's well worth it. Avignon's rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning views can all be enjoyed without reaching for your wallet.

Vacation packages in Avignon

Photo of Avignon, France by Hans Braxmeier

The best and easiest way to visit Avignon is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in France.

Booking a vacation package to Avignon means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Avignon to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Avignon is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find unique vacation packages to Avignon, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Avignon.

Find vacation packages in Avignon

Discover and compare vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Avignon.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Avignon get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in France. Your customized holiday package to Avignon is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Avignon

To get to the city of Avignon the fastest way possible, travelers from outside France can travel by plane. Some airlines that operate flights to Avignon – Provence airport are Turkish Airlines, Royal Air Maroc, Egyptair, Kenya Airways, and Air New Zealand. Go to this page to compare all flights to Avignon.

To reach the city of Avignon, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Avignon – Provence airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Avignon, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Avignon – Provence airport and Avignon below.

Find cheap flights to Avignon

Photo of Avignon France, by Hans Braxmeier-papal palace

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Avignon, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in France. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Avignon, France, in July.

The cheapest one-way flight to Avignon costs around 168 EUR and is offered by the airline LoganAir LM.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Avignon cost approximately 857 EUR in total. The flight time is around 24 hours per way.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to France and the city of Avignon from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Avignon

Travelers visiting Avignon in France can fly to Avignon – Provence airport directly from 38 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Avignon – Provence airport and the city of Avignon in France depart from Cadjehoun airport in Cotonou, Benin, Svalbard , Longyear airport in Longyearbyen, Svalbard & Jan Mayen, and Kangerlussuaq airport in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland.

Travelers can fly to France by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Cotonou; from 1 weekly flight(s) from Longyearbyen; and from 1 weekly flight(s) from Kangerlussuaq.

The airline that operates most flights to France is SAS. SAS offers 1 scheduled flight routes to France.

Discover the most popular flights to Avignon below. Click to view flights to Avignon, France from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Avignon

Photo of Avignon France, by Marcel Dominic-provence

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Avignon is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Avignon usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Avignon offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Avignon and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Avignon planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Avignon, you'll find 5 different types of places to stay catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in France can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Avignon. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Avignon.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Avignon in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Avignon

A trip to the fascinating Avignon, France, means opportunities to relax at any of the 5 different types of places to stay in the city. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 298 vacation rental apartments, 187 hotels, 38 cottages, 6 bed & breakfasts and 2 guesthouses. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Avignon provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all these choices available in the city, Hotel Bristol Avignon is one of the top picks of travelers in Avignon.

The hotel is located at 44 Cours Jean Jaures, and boasts many great utilities, including 24-hour front desk, Air conditioning, and Bar.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Avignon. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Avignon, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose City Residence Avignon. For approximately 40 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Unknown at this popular hotel.

Below is a list of all 5 different types of places to stay in Avignon. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Avignon

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Avignon for the unique experience they provide. So if you're the kind of traveler who prefers staying at hotels, you'll be glad to know that the city is home to around 531 hotels.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Avignon provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Avignon are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Avignon.

La Mirande Hotel offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Avignon. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Hotel Bristol Avignon, the top 4-star hotel in the city. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Avignon, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, BEST WESTERN Hotel Paradou, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Avignon. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Search for accommodation in Avignon

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Avignon on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Avignon that match the information provided.

Transportation in Avignon

Avignon, a city in southeastern France, offers a range of transportation options. The city's public transit system, operated by Orizo, includes bus lines that serve the city and its suburbs. It is a cost-effective and efficient way to explore the city. There's also a free shuttle, the Baladine, that operates in the city center.

For those who prefer a more private mode of transportation, taxis are readily available. You can hail one on the street or book one in advance. There are also several car rental companies located in the city, offering a variety of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets. This gives visitors the freedom to explore Avignon and its surroundings at their own pace.

For a unique local transportation experience, consider renting a bike. Avignon is a bike-friendly city with numerous cycle paths and routes. Another unique mode of transportation is the river shuttle, which operates between Avignon and Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, offering a scenic way to travel across the Rhone river.

Car rental in Avignon

Photo of Avignon France, by Marcel Dominic-fort saint andré

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Avignon. Avignon has 8 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Avignon start from 37.8 EUR per day or 264.59 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Vw T-Roc Aut.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Avignon, starting from 20.99 EUR per day or 146.96 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat 500.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Avignon, France, below.

Popular types of car rental in Avignon

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Avignon to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Avignon can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore France at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Avignon is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Avignon is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Avignon.

Check out all options available in Avignon and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in France below.

Search for car rental in Avignon

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Avignon. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Avignon, France, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Avignon

Photo of Avignon, France by Siggy Nowak

The city of Avignon is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in France. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that France has it all.

France is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in France that are as magical as the city of Avignon. The most popular travel destinations in France are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in France

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in France. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Avignon

Photo of Avignon France, by Hans Braxmeier-pont saint-bénézet

A taste of France through a visit to Avignon can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Avignon to another remarkable destination in France.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Avignon to other spectacular locations in France, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Search domestic flights from Avignon

Traveling to another city or region in France? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Avignon to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in France on the selected dates.

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