Avignon France: Know Before You Go

Located in the Provence region in the South of France along the Rhône River, Avignon is a city renowned for its festivals and historical significance as the former residence of Popes and the iconic Avignon Bridge, also known as Pont Saint-Bénézet. If you are looking to venture beyond Paris and explore France, make sure to include Avignon in your itinerary! Continue reading to discover all the essential information for your trip to Avignon, France!

Kita the Explorer walking to Chez Mamie on Rue Carnot

Travel To Avignon

When traveling to France and arriving in cities like Paris or Nice, the most efficient mode of transportation to reach Avignon is by train. The train will conveniently bring you directly into the city. Avignon has two train stations: Gare d'Avignon Centre and Avignon TGV. Opting for the train not only saves time and money but also contributes to a more eco-friendly journey. Train tickets can be easily booked through SNCF.

Where To Stay In Avignon

Luckily for me, Avignon, France, was included in my itinerary during the river cruise with AmaWaterways, so I didn't have to worry about finding a place to stay. However, if you are considering spending the night in Avignon instead of continuing your journey, you can explore this selection of hotel options provided by Booking.com (not sponsored).

**Please make sure to conduct your own research on any hotel in Avignon. This list is merely a starting point and not a personal recommendation from me.

Things You Must Do in Avignon France

If you seek a destination that harmoniously blends history with modernity, Avignon offers the perfect fusion. Below are some essential activities to experience in Avignon:

Explore the Palace of the Popes (Palais des Papes). This grand Gothic palace, the largest in Europe, once served as the papal residence. In 1309, Clement V relocated the papal seat to Avignon, seeking refuge under the protection of the French monarchy amidst unrest in Rome. Over a span of 70 years, seven Popes resided in this palace before it returned to Rome.

Admire the Avignon Bridge (Pont Saint-Bénézet), also known as Pont d'Avignon, spanning the Rhône River. Originally constructed in the 12th century, the bridge suffered partial destruction due to floods, leaving only a fragment standing today. It holds the prestigious status of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Kita the Explorer on a bike tour in front of the Avignon Bridge

Capture lasting memories of your Avignon experience by posing in front of one of the city's iconic Avignon signs. One popular sign is located along the Rhône River on the walking path right off of 10 All. Antoine Pinay.

Avignon sign

And if you enjoy being outside, you might want to explore the countryside or tour Avignon by bike. I had the opportunity to bike through the countryside one afternoon while on my river cruise. We visited several historical sites and made a special stop at Manguin Distillery, known for its potent liquors and bottles with fruit growing inside. Here are some bike tours you can research to see if you are interested*.

*This is an affiliate link. If you purchase through this link, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

Where to Eat in Avignon France

While visiting Avignon on my river cruise, I didn't need to rely on dining in the city, but I did participate in a food tour during my stay! I highly recommend adding this experience to your itinerary as well. Here are some of the places we visited on our food tour:

• Make sure to book a table at Chez Mamie, a restaurant that offers tapas and traditional cuisine, along with a selection of wines.

• Visit La Fromagerie de Louise, a high-quality cheese shop.
  

• Stop by Le Comptoir de Mathilde for fine chocolates and other gourmet specialties.
  

• Don't miss Autrefois for delicious cookies and other delectable sweets.

If you are interested in taking a food tour, please check out this suggested list for your research here*. *This is an affiliate link. If you purchase through this link, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

See Inside Avignon France

If you would like a visual of Avignon France, check out this video from my travel to Avignon.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=99r4wbv-p6g