Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape or just want to take in some history, culture and art – Avignon is sure to leave an impression on you.
Hidden away in the south of France is the stunning city of Avignon. With its impressive fortified walls, vibrant culture, and intricate web of narrow cobbled streets, it’s no wonder that Avignon has become a popular destination for tourists. Join us as we explore this beautiful city and discover all the sights, sounds and culture that make Avignon a special place to visit.
Avignon is a city in the south of France, located on the eastern bank of the Rhône River. It was once the capital of Catholic Europe and features several grand monuments representative of this period. Avignon has many religious buildings, including a 14th century palace belonging to the Pope, as well as dozens of churches spanning from early Romanesque to Gothic styles. The Palais des Papes, one of the largest Renaissance palaces in all of Europe, is among its most famous attractions.
The city itself is woven with winding cobblestone streets and lined with old houses whose brick façades are painted shades ranging from ocher to aubergine. Avignon is also known for its rich culture that includes many festivals and events throughout the year such as Jazz à Vienne, Theatre du Champs-Elysées and Les Artisañeaux.
Top Things to Do in Avignon
There are plenty of things to keep you busy in Avignon; from its vibrant nightlife and fabulous restaurants, to its many historical landmarks and cultural attractions. Here are our top things to do in Avignon:
1. Join the throngs at Place de l’Horloge – this is the heart of Avignon, a large public square bordered by grandiose buildings, including the Palais des Papes. It’s great for people watching, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of this beautiful city.
2. Admire the architecture of the Palais des Papes – this spectacular 14th century palace was once the home of the Pope, and is now one of Avignon’s most popular tourist attractions. Make sure you take a tour inside to see some of the incredible frescoes adorning its walls.
3. Cross the famous Pont d’Avignon – this medieval bridge spans the River Rhône, and has been immortalized in song (the ‘Sur le pont d’Avignon’ nursery rhyme). It’s a lovely spot for a photo opportunity, or just to enjoy views of the river.
4. Explore Avignon’s Old Town – with its winding streets and quaint shops, Avignon’s Old Town is a joy to explore. Make sure you pop into some of the churches and art galleries
Hotel Recommendations
The hotel scene in Avignon is quite varied, from quaint B&Bs to luxurious 5-star hotels. No matter what your budget is, there’s sure to be a perfect place for you to stay during your visit.
For those on a tight budget, the ibis Styles Avignon Centre Gare Sud is a great option. This 3-star hotel offers comfortable rooms at an affordable rate, and it’s conveniently located near the train station.
If you’re looking for something a bit more luxurious, the Hotel d’Europe is a great choice. This 5-star hotel is situated in the heart of the city, and it features upscale amenities like an on-site spa and Michelin-starred restaurant.
For those traveling with families or groups, the Best Western Plus Le Paradou Avignon – South Hotel & Spa is a great option. This 4-star hotel offers spacious rooms and suites as well as a heated outdoor pool, making it perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
Day Trips Nearby
There are plenty of day trips you can take from Avignon! Here are some of our favorites:
• Head to the nearby city of Arles, made famous by Vincent van Gogh. Stroll around the atmospheric old town and visit the UNESCO-listed Roman amphitheater.
• For a truly memorable experience, take a hot air balloon ride over the stunning Provence countryside.
• Or explore the beautiful L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, known for its canals and antique markets. Wander through the charming streets and stop for a bite to eat in one of the many pavement cafes.
Overview of Badaling Great Wall
Badaling Great Wall is one of the most popular sections of the Great Wall of China. It is located in the mountains northwest of Beijing and is about 60 kilometers from the city center.
The section of the Great Wall at Badaling was built in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and is the best preserved section of the wall. It is 8 meters high and 5-6 meters wide. There are watchtowers and barracks every few hundred meters along the wall.
Badaling Great Wall is also one of the busiest sections of the wall, with over 10,000 visitors per day during peak season. Many tour groups from Beijing come to Badaling to hike or take photos.
There are several ways to get to Badaling Great Wall from Beijing. You can take a bus, take a train, or drive yourself. The journey takes about 1-2 hours depending on which mode of transportation you choose.
Avignon is a city full of fantastic sights, sounds and experiences. From the historic Pope’s Palace to the cobblestone streets of Le Villeneuve, there are endless opportunities to explore and appreciate all that Avignon has to offer. So whether you are looking for an authentic cultural experience or just want a weekend getaway, we hope this Avignon travel guide has given you some practical tips and inspiration on how best to spend your visit in this beautiful corner of France.
