Avignon in half a day

You simply cannot miss it: the Palais des Papes is the beating heart of Avignon!
A place steeped in history, this monumental residence of the popes – a symbol of the Church’s influence across the Christian West in the 14th century – is the largest Gothic palace in the world! Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is one of the 10 most visited monuments in France.

The Cour d’Honneur is one of the iconic venues of the Avignon Festival. Every year in July, after dark – and has been since 1947 – performances are staged there. A magical experience!

Situated right next to the Palais des Papes, Notre-Dame des Doms forms part of Avignon’s incredible ensemble of monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 12th century, it is a magnificent example of Provençal Romanesque architecture. Its bell tower is crowned by an imposing, gilded statue of the Virgin Mary.

⚠️ Work in progress

This English-style garden, set on the rock overlooking the Palais des Papes, rises 30 metres above the River Rhône and offers a magnificent panoramic view of the old town, the monuments and the landscapes of the Rhône valley stretching as far as Mont Ventoux.

A true haven of coolness with its lake where ducks and swans paddle about, it is the ideal spot for a peaceful break. It is also a children’s paradise, with two play areas (slides, swings, etc.) and little wooden horses.

Avignon’s other gem! Yes, yes, it really is the bridge from the world-famous nursery rhyme ‘Sur le Pont d’Avignon’!
Built in the 12th century, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It originally had 22 arches spanning the River Rhône. Over time and as a result of various floods, the bridge has suffered extensive damage.

To reach Barthelasse, Europe’s largest river island, opposite the Pont d’Avignon, take the free river shuttle. Crossing the Rhône by boat is a quick and convenient way to reach the opposite bank, where you can continue your stroll along the towpath on foot or by bike and relax on the lawns whilst enjoying breathtaking views of the historic centre and its monuments.