Historical Avignon
- The architectural treasures inside the medieval walls of Avignon are among the finest in Europe. The city's landmark is the huge gothic Palais des Papes, the fortified palace where Avignon's own rival Pope briefly claimed the throne of St. Peter. The large palace is open to visitors and self-guided tours with an English audio device are available. The frescoes of the Chapelle St-Jean are worth the visit in themselves. For a low-key view of the city's history, take a walk across the Rhone River on the Pont d'Avignon, stroll through the bookshops and historical buildings on the Rue des Teinturiers or stop for a coffee under the ornate clock tower of the Place de l'Horloge.
Artistic Avignon
- Art enthusiasts should head to Avignon in July for the Festival d'Avignon. The month-long festival attracts artists from all over France and the world for performances, expositions and debates. The festival includes musical, theatrical and literary performances in addition to visual arts exhibits -- all held in stunning and diverse venues, such as Romanesque chapels or the massive Cour d'Honneur inside the Palais des Papes. Advance tickets can -- and should -- be booked online for popular one-time performances.
- Nightlife and Entertainment
- If you thought things died down in Avignon sometime around the 15th century, a quick stroll through the city center will quickly introduce you to Avignon's cosmopolitan contemporary side. While the nightlife options can't compete with cities like Paris, Avignon has a vibrant local arts and entertainment scene. Place de l'Horloge -- surrounded by bars and cafes -- is the heart of Avignon's nightlife and a good place to start for a drink and conversation. Opera enthusiasts can head to the 19th-century Opera Theatre for a show, while film buffs head to the Utopia Manutention -- in a nook below the Palais des Papes -- for art-house cinema.
Relaxing in Avignon
- When your mind needs a rest from gothic cathedrals and contemporary art, head to the Rocher des Domes. These tranquil gardens at the top of the hill over Avignon offer spectacular views over the river and the city, along with meticulously landscaped parks, comfortable benches and a swan lake. For some real relaxation, head back to town for one of those afternoon-long lunches that make Provence famous. Walk into any brasserie on the central Place de l'Horloge or head to Hiély Lucullus on Rue de la Republique for dishes such as beef with truffles and locally-produced wines. Foodies can head to the covered market in Les Halles on Saturday morning for cooking lessons with the city's finest chefs.
