Avignon City Guide
Avignon is a beautiful medieval walled city, dominated by the Palais des Papes, where the 14th century Popes moved to from Rome. Visit Avignon to see charming buildings, old churches, and the splendour of the Papal Palace, and don't miss the city's gastronomic delights!
What to do and see in and around Avignon
Palais des Papes
The enormous Palais des Papes was home to the Pope from 1309 to 1417, and scene of an extravagant court where art and culture were encouraged. Much of the original furniture and decoration is no longer in place - but you can see some original decoration in the Chapels and Palais Neuf.
Place de L'Horloge
Place de L'Horloge is right at the heart of Avignon, surrounded by cafes, restaurants and bars. Look out for the Opéra, Hôtel de Ville, and the namesake of the square - the clock tower. Some of the buildings have painted windows with famous Avignon visitors looking out over the streets.
Musée Calvet
The Musée Calvet is based in one of the 18th century buildings in the southwest of the city. The museum has a large sculpture gallery, paintings including works by Manet and Brueghal, and a large silver collection.
Pont d'Avignon (Le Pont St Bénezet)
Pont d'Avignon was made famous by the song "Sur le pont d'Avignon". It's officially called Pont St Bénezet, and crosses the River Rhône to the northwest of the centre of Avignon. Only 4 of the arches crossing the river remain - so you can't cross all the way across the river from this bridge.
Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms
Set behind the Palais des Papes is the Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms which dates back to the 12th century. Many of the decorations are 19th century. Behind the Cathedral is the elegant Rocher des Doms park with views over the River Rhône.
Arles
20 minutes from Avignon by train
Take the train from Avignon Centre station to visit the nearby city of Arles. Arles was a Roman settlement, and has a vast and well preserved Roman Arena and Roman theatre. The artist Van Gogh lived in Arles, and some of his most famous paintings, including "Café de Nuit", depict the city.
Orange
20 minutes from Avignon by train
Orange was originally a Roman settlement, and also home to the infamous William of Orange. Watch the entertainment in the huge Roman theatre, visit the original Arc de Triomphe - built in around 20BC, and explore the tiny streets in the old town area.
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