AVIGNON
AVIGNON
(44 minutes from Salon de Provence)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city of Avignon is known for having hosted the popes between 1309 and 1423, alongside the Roman popes. It changed its face during the 18th century with more modern developments and the disappearance of many narrow medieval streets. Today, Avignon is best known for its architectural heritage, as well as for its cultural influence throughout the world.
The town is one of the few French cities to have preserved its ramparts and its historic centre, which attract many tourists every year.
​Palace of the Popes
Located in the centre of Avignon on the Rocher des Doms, the Palais des Papes is the largest building of its time. It was the scene of 6 conclaves between 1335 and 1394.
Thanks to the technology of virtual reality, you can visit the palace and its history through high quality reconstructions. You will be immersed in the atmosphere of the past, a journey back to the Middle Ages.
The exit will be to the Rocher des Doms park. The park is very pleasant to walk around in, with its shade and flowers, especially in the summer when it is hot, as there is always some fresh air. There are facilities for children, pretty duck ponds and a refreshment bar.
The monument also offers visitors regular cultural events throughout the year. The Festival d'Avignon takes place in July in the Cour d'Honneur of the Palais. A majestic and imposing place, the Palais des Papes is one of the 10 most visited monuments in France.
Opening hours: From 19/05 to 31/12/2021, every day from 10am to 5pm. The ticket office closes 1 hour before and the gardens 30 minutes before.
More info: Click here
Pont d'Avignon (The Saint Bénézet bridge)
The Saint Bénézet bridge, more famous under the name of Pont d'Avignon, is the symbol of the city. Of the original 22 arches, only 4 remain today. As a result of wars and floodings of the Rhône, the bridge has been damaged several times.
Classified as a Unesco World Heritage Site, a visit to the bridge allows you to immerse yourself in the history of the city. Closely linked to the pontifical life of the Middle Ages, it was a place of passage for pilgrims between Spain and Italy, of control of river traffic, a tollbooth... until its final demolition in the 17th century...
From 01/07 to 31/12/2021, every day from 10am to 5pm.
Ticket office closes 30 minutes before. Free for children under 8 years old. FAMILY rate for the "Palace + Bridge" ticket / 2 adults + 1 child.
More info: Click here
To go further...
The Avignon Festival
The Notre-Dame des Doms Cathedral in Avignon
The Pie square
The Saint-André fort
Le pont d’Avignon (le pont saint Bénezet)