Avignon

Holiday home rentals in Avignon

The City of the Popes

Known as the “City of the Popes,” this historic city earned its nickname due to the succession of popes who resided there during the 14th century, living within the Palais des Papes in the Comtat Venaissin, which belonged to the Papal States until 1790. It is also famous for its annual theater festival, the Festival d’Avignon, which attracts artists and spectators from around the world. Rich in history, it boasts magnificent architecture and exudes a charming atmosphere.

To discover

in Avignon

5 Reasons to Visit Avignon

Palais des Papes

One of the largest and most magnificent Gothic palaces in Europe.

Saint-Bénezet bridge

Known as the "Pont d'Avignon" from the famous nursery rhyme.

Festival d'Avignon

A world-renowned theater event.

Avignon's Ramparts

Encircling the city center, they are superbly preserved.

Jardin des Doms

Adjacent to the Palais des Papes, offering a unique panoramic view of the surroundings.

On Vacation in the Heart of Provence

During your vacation, you’ll have countless activities to try and explore! The city is full of endless possibilities, with marvelous architecture around every corner, delicious cuisine, rich history, and cultural activities. From its weekly market to its many museums and theaters, it would be impossible to list them all.

Summer Holidays

The best time to visit is between July and August, during the “Festival d’Avignon.” For over three weeks, a thousand theatrical events take place all over the city, sometimes indoors, sometimes outdoors. This festival has a worldwide reputation, and many great names have participated or emerged from it. Between daytime performances and nighttime festivities, you won’t even think about going to bed!

Even though the exterior is beautiful, the Palais des Papes can also be explored inside: 25 rooms are open to visitors, giving you a glimpse of life during that era. Upon arrival, you’ll be given an “Histopad,” a tablet that enhances your visit with augmented reality. You’ll see the rooms come to life and the wall tapestries regain their colors right before your eyes!

 

"Avignon, City of Exception"

Your Holiday Home near Avignon

Built during the same era as the Palais des Papes, the "Petit Palais," named to differentiate it from the larger one, was intended to house cardinals and their retinues. Today, it serves as a museum, showcasing early Renaissance art from the 15th century. The collection of early Italian paintings and sculptures is one of the most important in Europe and the second largest in France, surpassed only by the Louvre’s collection! It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the region’s arts while the rain falls outside.

La collection de peintures et de statues primitives italiennes est l'une des plus importantes d'Europe, et la deuxième de France, seulement dépassée par la collection personnelle du Louvre ! Le moyen idéal de se plonger dans les arts de la région, tandis que la pluie tombe à l’extérieur.

Golf Courses Nearby

The golf courses in Provence offer unique settings. The one in Les Baux, nestled in the heart of the Alpilles, stands out for its spectacular views. In Mouriès, Servane captivates with its tranquility between mountains and pine trees. In Avignon, the course combines history and quality, while Pont Royal, designed by Seve Ballesteros, presents a challenging experience in the heart of the region. These locations are must-visits for golf enthusiasts in Provence.

 
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Places to Visit in Avignon

With its magnificent architecture, Avignon is a place where it’s delightful to get lost: stumbling upon a decorated façade or a flower-filled square is always a special moment!

Family Vacation

Space, the final frontier, the common thread that unites us all, young and old, as we dream about what lies beyond. Who hasn’t laid in the grass and gazed at the stars? If you resonate with these words, the Parc du Cosmos is for you! Located not far from Avignon, it’s a place where you can stargaze with a telescope, attend a planetarium session, or follow a guided tour of the park led by an experienced astronomer.

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Holiday home rentals in Avignon

Romantic Getaway

Les Halles are renowned for the quality and freshness of their products. The building is easily recognizable thanks to its green wall façade. Discover various local products, carefully crafted by passionate producers. Strolling hand in hand through its aisles while learning about the origins and significance of each item is the first step to truly understanding the charm of Avignon!

Vacation with Your Dog

The Île de la Barthelasse is a small piece of land surrounded by the Rhône, yet it constitutes Avignon’s 9th district. To reach this 1000-hectare expanse, you can cross a bridge or take a small boat: if the weather permits, the boat will take you across the river, where you can explore this piece of “countryside within the city.” With its partially cultivated but mostly wild environment, your four-legged friend will have a blast! However, be cautious: many small creatures live on the muddy banks of the island and may not appreciate being disturbed by your dog. Stick to the walking paths to avoid any issues!

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Getting to Avignon

The easiest way to reach the city by car is via the ring road, the N570.

To visit Provence, the airports in Marseille, Montpellier, and Nice are the most recommended.

Avignon has two train stations: Gare Centrale, which connects the city to the rest of Provence via TER, and the TGV station, offering high-speed connections to Marseille and Paris. Various shuttles and TER trains ensure seamless travel between the two stations.

Cycling is an integral part of Avignon’s lifestyle, and numerous paths have been created to cater to all levels and interests. No matter your cycling ability (or lack thereof), you’ll find a trail that suits your expectations.

 

Nearby Cities to Avignon

Holiday home rentals in Avignon

Time in Provence has selected the best restaurants in the region for you.

Avignon: History, Traditions, and Culture

The city was built by the Phocaeans in 539 BC under the name Avenio. In 121 AD, the Romans invaded and began expanding it, establishing commercial and economic ties with their neighbors. This growth, both in size and population, is documented in a second-century text stating that it “covers 25 hectares and has about 25,000 inhabitants.” The first Christians arrived outside the city walls around the 3rd century. Although it is impossible to know when the city converted to Christianity, the first recorded bishop, Monsignor Nextarius, dates back to 439.

Its most famous tradition is undoubtedly the Festival d’Avignon. Founded in 1947 by Jean Vilar with the help of Jean Rouvet, this festival began modestly with a single play performed in the Cour d’Honneur of the Palais des Papes: Shakespeare’s The Tragedy of King Richard II. Over the years, it grew to become the world’s largest theater and performing arts event in terms of productions and spectators.

Several venues host a variety of events and cultural activities, including the Palais des Papes, the Musée du Petit Palais, the Musée Calvet, the Musée Angladon, the Théâtre des Halles, and the Théâtre du Chêne Noir.

Holiday home rentals in Avignon

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