Avignon, France Trip Plans & Vacation Ideas

A city made famous by the Great Western Schism -- when 14th-century French cardinals challenged Rome by appointing their own Pope -- Avignon is a city rich in history. History buffs will have plenty to see wandering the medieval cobblestone streets below the world's largest gothic palace, but the city also offers contemporary culinary and cultural wonders, along with a tranquil town atmosphere that is sure to satisfy even the most seasoned European travelers. International visitors can fly into Paris and then continue to one of the airports near Avignon, which include Nimes, Marseille and Montpellier, drive for between six and seven hours, or travel by high-speed train and arrive in just under three hours.

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.

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Girls Weekend Vacation Ideas

Go as far as your mind will take you when planning a weekend away with the girls. Seventy-five percent of women travel, be it culturally, in nature, or for adventure. Whether you decide to plan a lavish vacation, or a leisurely getaway, try to plan a weekend that maximizes your together time with the girls.

Camping

• Spend your girl's weekend chumming with Mother Nature. Rent a campsite or cabin at the closest natural location, keeping in mind that the hot spots may require reservations far in advance. If you're going to be near water, consider renting a boat or jet skis. To keep the camp food exciting, have each woman, or team up into pairs, plan, cook and clean up their favorite meal. After working hard to make one meal, you get the rest of the weekend off.

Shopping Trip

• Pick the nearest hot spot for great shopping in your region--whether it be South Florida, New York or the Mall of America. Go in on a hotel room with the ladies; keep in mind that you might be able to get a more fabulous room by booking with an online travel company. Research the area's best times for sales and then spend the weekend hunting for bargains. Show off the new clothes by making a reservation at the area's top-rated restaurant.

RV Rental

• Spend your weekend on the go, in close company with your girlfriends, rent a recreational vehicle for those bonding moments. Having your own RV for the weekend gives you all the benefits of a hotel, with the ability to go anywhere. RVs are available to rent from many different companies, including CruiseAmerica, United RV Rentals and USA RV Rentals. Pick a popular tourist spot a few hours' drive from home and hit the road. Just don't forget the snacks and the tunes.

Spa Getaway

• With the manicures and pedicures, followed by massages and facials, visiting the spa is the classic relaxing way to spend the weekend. So why not do it with the girls? In most areas, getaway spas are fairly easy to find. While usually not cheap, spending the weekend at a spa can often be worth the expense. Overnight spas typically serve delicious, healthy fare, and put you up in clean, relaxing rooms, so they're also a great way to get back on a healthier path.

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