Visit Avignon: Discover the treasures of the City of the Popes

Nestled in the heart of Provence, just 1h30 from Camping Les Mouettes, Avignon fascinates with its exceptional heritage and unique atmosphere. This former papal residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers visitors an extraordinary journey through history. From the majestic Palais des Papes to the legendary Pont Saint-Bénézet, the peaceful Pontifical Gardens and cruises on the Rhône, visiting Avignon promises an unforgettable experience. Discover why this Provencal city attracts thousands of visitors every year in search of art, history and beauty.

What to see in Avignon: must-sees in the City of the Popes

A visit to Avignon is first and foremost a plunge into eight centuries of fascinating history. The city is brimming with architectural and cultural treasures that bear witness to its prestigious papal past. And beyond its emblematic monuments, Avignon’s charm lies in its cobbled streets, shady squares and the distinctive Provencal light that bathes every stone. Art and history lovers will find an exceptional playground here. At the same time, families will appreciate the diversity of activities on offer.

Discover Avignon’s rich heritage on foot, with a contemplative stroll through the perfectly preserved historic center. Indeed, every street corner reveals a surprise: Renaissance facades, private mansions, Gothic churches… This exceptional concentration of historic monuments makes Avignon an unmissable destination. For anyone wishing to discover the art of Provencal living.

Visiting the Palais des Papes: opening hours, prices and tips

The Palais des Papes is without doubt the absolute jewel of Avignon. It is one of the most important Gothic buildings in the world. Erected in the 14th century, this palace-fortress bears witness to the temporal power of the popes. The popes lived in Avignon from 1309 to 1423. With its 15,000 m² and 50-metre-high walls, the monument impresses with its colossal dimensions and remarkable architecture.

A visit to the Palais des Papes reveals sumptuous ceremonial rooms. You’ll also discover chapels with exceptional frescoes and private papal apartments. The Histopad, a digital tablet provided at the entrance, enables total immersion thanks to augmented reality. It recreates period settings. Visitors discover the Grand Audience, the Papal Chamber, the Clementine Chapel and its frescoes by Matteo Giovanetti.

Please note: a complete visit to the Palais des Papes takes around 2h30. The monument is open from 9am to 7pm in high season (March to October). In winter, opening hours are from 9:30 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. The full price is €12, with reductions for students, senior citizens and groups.

Good deal: Combined admission to the Palais des Papes and Pont d’Avignon is available for €14.5. A great way to discover these two emblematic sites.

Discover the Pontifical Gardens of Avignon: complete guide

The gardens of the Palais des Papes offer a new dimension to visits to this historic monument listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This exceptional ensemble comprises three areas: the Verger Urbain V (open to the public since 2018), the Jardin du Palais (Jardin Benoît XII, 1,250 m²) and the Jardin du Pape (662 m²), the latter two being integrated into the monument’s visitor itinerary.

The Jardin du Palais takes its inspiration from the 14th-century hydraulic network, structuring its plantings with authentic Mediterranean species from medieval times: rockroses, bouillon blanc, reseda, immortelle, as well as lemon, pomegranate and artichoke trees. The more intimate Jardin du Pape regains its precious character with the reconstruction of the griffin fountain and a flower meadow, dominated by a monumental pergola evoking the ancient Roma.

Inspired by the dry gardens of Provence, these gardens are true places of meditation, providing a better understanding of the pontifical palace. Accessible from the terrace of La Roma, they offer an exceptional view of the monument. A botanical trail with explanatory labels guides visitors through this historic plant discovery, reviving the tradition of the Avignon popes, who considered the gardens an integral part of their residence.

Please note: Prices from €3 – Includes botanical trail and relaxation break.

Pont d’Avignon (Saint-Bénézet): history and visit to this emblematic monument

The Pont Saint-Bénézet, universally known as the “Pont d’Avignon”, embodies the poetic soul of the city. This 12th-century vestige, made famous by the popular nursery rhyme “Sur le pont d’Avignon”, fascinates with its exceptional history. Its romantic silhouette is reflected in the waters of the Rhône. Only four of the original arches remain today. They create an iconic image engraved in the collective memory.

The story of the Pont d’Avignon begins in the 12th century with Saint Bénézet, a young shepherd. According to legend, he received a divine vision ordering him to build a bridge over the Rhône. Initially 900 metres long and with 22 arches, the bridge was a remarkable feat of engineering for its time. Unfortunately, successive floods and the river’s evolution took their toll on this architectural feat. Leaving only these four arches to bear witness to a glorious past.

A visit to the Pont d’Avignon includes a tour of the Saint-Nicolas chapel, built on the bridge itself. You’ll also have access to the bridge’s gardens, which offer unique views of the Palais des Papes. The audioguide included in your ticket retraces the fascinating history of this legendary construction.

Practical information: The site is open from 9am to 7pm in summer and from 9:30am to 5:45pm in winter. Admission is €5.

Cruise on the Rhône in Avignon: terrace boat and panoramic views

Discovering Avignon from the Rhône offers a unique and particularly photogenic perspective of the Cité des Papes. Panoramic cruises on a terrace boat reveal Avignon’s architectural beauty from a unique angle. You can simultaneously admire the Palais des Papes, the Pont Saint-Bénézet and the medieval ramparts that encircle the historic city. This nautical experience is one of the most enjoyable ways to visit Avignon.

Several cruise packages are available to visitors. From a 45-minute discovery cruise to lunch or dinner cruises lasting several hours. The panoramic boats, with their open terraces and fitted decks, guarantee optimum visibility of the monuments. Multilingual audio commentaries enrich the discovery experience, recounting the history of Avignon and its architectural treasures.

Rates and reservations: The classic “Discovery of Avignon” cruise lasts about 1 hour and costs between €15 and €18 for an adult. Departures are from the pier near the Pont d’Avignon. There are more frequent departures in summer. Reservations are highly recommended, especially in July and August. This is when tourist numbers reach their peak. These cruises generally run from April to October, depending on weather conditions.

Île de la Barthelasse: visit Avignon’s green lung

Barthelasse Island, Europe’s largest river island at 700 hectares, is Avignon’s green lung. This exceptional nature destination is just a few minutes from the historic center. This oasis of greenery, accessible via the Daladier bridge or by river shuttle, offers a striking contrast to the urban bustle of the papal city. To remember : To visit Avignon without discovering Barthelasse is to miss out on an essential aspect of the city’s Rhône identity.

The island’s charm lies in its unspoilt natural landscapes, hiking trails and outdoor activities. In particular, families appreciate the shaded picnic areas, playgrounds and opportunities for a variety of activities. These include cycling, kayaking, fishing or simply taking a contemplative stroll along the banks of the Rhône. Barthelasse is also home to traditional farms. These continue the tradition of market gardening on the Rhône.

Activities and services: A number of service providers offer bike rentals for exploring the island on your own. Marked trails allow you to discover the local flora and fauna. In particular, the island’s remarkable birdlife is a delight for birdwatchers. In summer, temporary “guinguettes” set up on the island. They offer food and entertainment in a unique bucolic setting.

Advantage: Access to Barthelasse Island is free. This makes it an ideal destination for a cost-effective nature getaway.

Other tourist attractions in Avignon: museums and cultural sites

Beyond its emblematic monuments, Avignon is home to many cultural treasures. These make a visit to the city even more rewarding. Not to be missed: the Musée Calvet, housed in a magnificent 18th-century townhouse. It features remarkable collections of ancient and modern art, including works by Manet, Dufy and Soutine. Contemporary art lovers won’t want to miss the Collection Lambert. This internationally renowned museum of contemporary art is housed in two superbly restored townhouses.

Avignon’s religious history can also be discovered through its many churches and chapels. The Cathedral of Notre-Dame des Doms, adjacent to the Palais des Papes, impresses with its Provencal Romanesque architecture. It houses the Golden Virgin, who watches over the city. Also worth a visit is the Church of Saint-Pierre, with its remarkable flamboyant Gothic portal.

Avignon’s charm is also revealed in its lively squares and shopping streets. The Place de l’Horloge, a veritable open-air salon, is home to the Théâtre municipal and numerous café terraces. Don’t miss Les Halles d’Avignon, a century-old covered market. Here you can sample Provencal specialties such as tapenade, Ventoux goat’s cheese, candied fruit and Côtes du Rhône wines. This gastronomic immersion is an integral part of the art of visiting Avignon.

Avignon in a nutshell: what you need to know for your visit

To visit Avignon is to discover one of France’s most beautiful historic cities. It boasts an exceptional heritage bequeathed by the popes of the 14th century. The star attraction: the Palais des Papes, an impressive Gothic fortress. It is the main attraction, with its ceremonial halls and remarkable frescoes. The Papal Gardens offer a panoramic green setting. They are only accessible on guided tours from April to October.

The famous Pont d’Avignon (Saint-Bénézet) and its chapel allow you to relive the legend of this partially preserved architectural masterpiece. Price: €5, combined with the Palais: €15. For a unique perspective: Panoramic cruises on the Rhône River reveal the beauty of Avignon from an unprecedented angle. The Barthelasse island offers a free nature getaway just a few minutes from the city center.

This Provençal city has an exceptional concentration of historic monuments, top-quality museums and refined gastronomy. Added to this is the gentle Mediterranean lifestyle that is its eternal charm. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover or simply curious, Avignon promises a rewarding discovery. All in an exceptional architectural setting, listed as a World Heritage Site.