Explore Avignon · Local food and wine · Activities and leisure · A different side of Avignon · Explore Provence
WELCOME TO PROVENCE
Avignon, in the heart of Provence
Known as the City of Popes, Avignon has a remarkable historic and cultural heritage. In the 14th century, the city became the seat of the papacy and one of the major centres of the Christian world. It retains outstanding monuments from that period, including the famous Palais des Papes, the Pont Saint-Bénézet and the episcopal complex, all part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing.
Within its city walls, Avignon is made for wandering. Take your time exploring the medieval lanes, churches, historic townhouses and shaded squares, or step inside one of the city’s many museums.
Throughout the year, Avignon comes alive with events: the Christmas market, theatre festivals including the Festival d’Avignon, dance events such as Les Hivernales, fairs including Cheval Passion and the Avignon Motor Festival, as well as Les Pontificales, a major medieval celebration.
Ideally situated between the Côtes du Rhône vineyards, the Luberon, the Alpilles and the Camargue, Avignon also makes an excellent base for exploring Provence.
From Hôtel Le Magnan, our boutique hotel in Avignon’s historic centre, discover the city and its surroundings at your own pace.
THE CITY OF POPES
Explore Avignon
Avignon is a city of art and history, whose architectural heritage reflects centuries of a particularly rich past.
A visit to Avignon would hardly be complete without the Palais des Papes, one of Europe’s largest Gothic palaces. This former papal residence opens a window onto the fascinating world of the 14th century. Just a short walk away, the celebrated Pont Saint-Bénézet, better known as the Pont d’Avignon, is another reminder of the city’s remarkable history.
But Avignon’s charm goes beyond its best-known monuments. As you explore, look out for the historic mansions once occupied by cardinals and prominent Avignon families, the many churches, narrow lanes that stay cool in summer and small shaded squares where it is tempting to linger.
Art lovers can continue their visit at the Musée Calvet, the Musée du Petit Palais or the Collection Lambert, dedicated to contemporary art.
And above all, remember to look up! Throughout the historic centre, niches shelter small statues of the Virgin Mary, quiet reminders of the city’s religious traditions. Spotting these easily overlooked details is part of the pleasure of exploring Avignon on foot.
Palais des Papes
Step into the 14th century at one of Europe’s largest Gothic fortified palaces.
Pont Saint-Bénézet
The famous Pont d’Avignon, a witness to the city’s history on the banks of the Rhône.
Rue des Teinturiers
A charming walk past waterways, waterwheels and historic façades.
Rue des Lices
Wander through small squares and historic streets, and enjoy a taste of Provençal life.
Saint-Pierre Basilica
A treasure of Avignon’s heritage, admired for its architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
LOCAL FOOD AND WINE
Food and wine in Provence
A land of vineyards, colourful markets and culinary traditions, Avignon is an inviting destination for discovering Provençal gastronomy. From Côtes du Rhône wine tastings to regional produce and welcoming restaurants, there are plenty of flavours to explore.
WINE AND VINEYARDS
Along the Côtes du Rhône wine route
In the heart of the Rhône Valley, Avignon is an excellent starting point for the Côtes du Rhône wine route and some of the region’s best-known vineyards.
Meet the winemakers of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, sample wines from Gigondas and Beaumes-de-Venise, or discover the celebrated rosés of Tavel. Along roads lined with vines, wineries open their doors to share their expertise and the distinctive character of their terroirs.
In August, Avignon traditionally celebrates the start of the grape harvest, an event honouring the area’s winegrowing heritage.
If you prefer to stay in town, Avignon’s many wine bars are another enjoyable way to discover Rhône Valley appellations.
MARKETS AND LOCAL PRODUCE
The flavours of Provence
To explore the flavours of Provence, visit Les Halles d’Avignon, the large covered market in the city centre. Seasonal fruit and vegetables, olives, cheeses, herbs and other regional specialities fill the stalls.
Around Avignon, continue your food discoveries at local farms and producers. Olive mills introduce visitors to Provençal olive varieties such as Aglandau and Picholine, while beekeepers share the varied flavours of Provençal honey.
These are wonderful opportunities to discover regional produce, local craftsmanship and the simple pleasures of Provençal cooking.
FOOD AND DRINK
Our restaurant suggestions
After a day of sightseeing, explore Avignon’s many restaurants to try Provençal specialities, share a relaxed meal or enjoy a gastronomic experience.
Here are some of the places we enjoy recommending to guests staying at Hôtel Le Magnan.
GET ACTIVE IN PROVENCE
Active holidays
Avignon is an easy city to explore on foot, but you can also discover its historic streets by bicycle or Segway for a more active visit.
In the surrounding area, adventure seekers can try aerial activities around Pujaut, via ferrata near Collias or Cavaillon, or rock climbing in the Dentelles de Montmirail.
For water sports enthusiasts, canoeing or kayaking along the Gardon beneath the impressive arches of the Pont du Gard is a memorable experience. The crystal-clear Sorgue is also ideal for a peaceful canoe or paddleboard trip.
Tennis enthusiasts can also enjoy sports facilities in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, among pine trees close to the papal city.
OFF THE BEATEN TRACK
A different side of Avignon
For a different perspective on Avignon, head up to the Rocher des Doms. This elevated garden offers sweeping views over the city, the Rhône, Villeneuve-lès-Avignon and Fort Saint-André.
Looking for an unusual way to explore? Discover the lanes and monuments of the City of Popes on a friendly guided tuk-tuk tour, by day or in the evening.
Antiques enthusiasts will also enjoy the flea market in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, traditionally held on Saturday mornings. Across the Rhône, browse antiques and vintage objects, then linger over a drink on a sunny terrace.
TREASURES OF THE REGION
Beyond Avignon
Just a few kilometres from Avignon, Provence reveals a remarkable variety of landscapes and historic sites. Hilltop villages in the Luberon, Côtes du Rhône vineyards, the Alpilles, Roman remains, garrigue and the wild expanses of the Camargue all offer rewarding days out.
Within roughly 20 to 100 km of the City of Popes, sometimes a little further, explore the region’s picturesque villages and celebrated landmarks.
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North of Avignon
To the north, discover Orange and its ancient theatre, Vaison-la-Romaine and its Roman remains, or the spectacular Ardèche gorges. Nature lovers can head to Mont Ventoux, Provence’s towering landmark, while wine lovers explore the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Gigondas and Beaumes-de-Venise.
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West of Avignon
To the west, explore the Gard side of Provence and its historic treasures: the famous Pont du Gard, Uzès and its Place aux Herbes, or Nîmes and its Roman amphitheatre. Continue to Anduze, La Roque-sur-Cèze and the Sautadet waterfalls, before discovering the walls of Aigues-Mortes and the wild landscapes of the Camargue.
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East of Avignon
To the east, browse the antique shops of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, discover the celebrated spring at Fontaine-de-Vaucluse and admire the lavender fields of the Sault plateau in season. Continue through the hilltop villages of the Luberon, from Gordes to Roussillon via Ménerbes, Bonnieux and Lacoste.
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South of Avignon
To the south, discover the Alpilles with their olive groves and characterful villages. Browse the Provençal market in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, admire Les Baux-de-Provence and explore the Roman heritage of Arles. Further afield, Aix-en-Provence, Marseille and the Calanques invite you to extend your journey to the Mediterranean.