Exploring Avignon

Known for its beautiful historic buildings and museums, Avignon is a delightful destination to visit on private tours of France. 

Enjoy the charming Provençal atmosphere exploring the town’s old streets and picturesque squares. The imposing Palais des Papes is a great place to start you tour of Avignon. Europe’s largest Gothic palace, dominates the town with its spires and towers reminding of the unlimited power of the Papacy in the Middle Ages. 25 rooms are open to the public where you can see old frescoes, paintings, Gothic tapestries, imagine grand feasts that were held in the huge Banqueting Hall. 

Palais des Papes

The Place du Palais is spacious cobbled square flanked by beautiful historic buildings. Pop in to the Petit Palais, a former archbishop's palace with a stunning arcaded courtyard, to see an excellent collection of Italian Renaissance painting.

Although only a fifth of the 800-year-old Pont St-Benezet has survive to modern days, the bridge is still an iconic symbol of Avignon. Check it out for a few snapshots and great views of the city. 

Another spot to admire the panoramic views of Avignon is the gardens of Rocher des Doms that overlook the city’s main landmarks, the mighty Rhône river and surrounding countryside. 

Pont St-Benezet

The beautiful square of Place de l'Horloge is a perfect place to chill out in a café and people watch. 

While sipping your coffee admire the local theater and the pretty Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall) with a 14th-century clock that strikes the hours. To rub shoulders with locals head to the lively indoor market Les Halles where you can sample the best of local delicacies.

Avignon is famous for a variety of festivals that take place throughout the year: the International Jazz Festival in August, Epicurean Festival in summer, Blues Festival as well as a vibrant Christmas market in December.  

For a traditional tasty meal check out the elegant the bistrot L'Épicerie to devour hearty Provençal dishes and excellent foie gras washed down by local wines.

Photos via Flickr by: Guillén Pérez, Stephen Colebourne.