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Why Avignon Should Be Your Next French Adventure
I’ll be honest, when I first heard about Avignon, I knew it mainly from that childhood song about the famous bridge (yes, even in Romania we learned “Sur le pont d’Avignon” in kindergarten!).
I was excited to visit the town because it looks incredible in pictures, especially since I love medieval towns!
The town’s fascinating history includes a period as “the second Rome,” where medieval popes once ruled from this courtyard.
I discovered a pretty quiet town, with impressive architecture, a lot of small hidden streets and some nice restaurants.
Whether you’re road-tripping through the South of France or planning a dedicated Provence adventure, one day in Avignon offers the perfect blend of papal history, cultural treasures, and that authentic French lifestyle we all dream about.
Trust me, by sunset you’ll understand why this UNESCO World Heritage site has enchanted visitors for centuries.
Should You Stay in Avignon or Make It a Day Trip?
Honestly?? — it’s complicated!
The good news? Prices here are definitely more budget-friendly compared to other Provençal hotspots like Saint-Paul-de-Vence or Gordes.
Plus, being a larger city means you’ll find plenty of accommodation options, from charming boutique hotels to modern chains.
The flip side? After dark, parts of the city can feel surprisingly empty, and honestly, a bit less welcoming than during the bustling daytime hours.
I stayed for 3 days during my visit, and while it was perfectly fine, I probably wouldn’t choose to base myself here again for multiple nights. I know recommend staying somewhere else, like Saint-Remy-de-Provence. Even though I still consider Avignon to be a good base to visit Provence without a car.
If you’re exploring multiple destinations in Provence, make Avignon a memorable day trip.
But if you prefer to unpack once and enjoy lower accommodation costs, staying here works too — just plan your evenings accordingly!
Living just three hours away in Toulouse, I often find myself exploring this beautiful corner of Provence, and Avignon has been on my list for a while.
So, during a weekend getaway dedicated to discovering more of this region, I finally spent a full day wandering through its papal history, lively markets, and charming medieval streets.
In just one day, we’ll walk through centuries of history at the Palais des Papes and Notre-Dame des Doms, enjoy the colors and flavors of Les Halles Market, stroll along the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet, and lose ourselves in the prettiest streets like Rue des Teinturiers and Rue Joseph Vernet.
Of course, there will be plenty of foodie stops, from Provençal bistros to perfect picnic spots, because you can’t visit Avignon without tasting its local specialties!
To make things easier for you, I’ve created a Google Map with all the pins in order—just save it, and you’ll have the perfect itinerary ready for your own trip.
How to spend one day in avignon: Morning walk through papal history
Start at the Remparts for Perfect Parking
Let’s start this day with the most important thing! Arriving in Avignon.
If you’re driving, park near the Remparts (city walls) rather than attempting to navigate Avignon’s narrow medieval streets with a rental car.
Trust me on this one! Plus, starting here gives you the perfect introduction to the city — those massive 14th-century walls are absolutely impressive and set the stage for everything you’re about to discover.
- Parking Remparts (free but hard to find a place)
- Parking just by the remparts, not free but cheap
- Parking inside the town (I’d avoid it as it is really hard to find it and even harder squize in + it’s very expensive)
Palais des Papes: Europe’s Largest Gothic Palace
Your first major stop absolutely has to be the Palais des Papes — and wow, what a way to begin your Avignon adventure!
This is Europe’s largest Gothic palace, and standing in its grand courtyard feels like stepping directly into a medieval movie set.
Always ask for the Histopads !! (interactive tablets) at the entrance.
Sometimes staff forget to offer them, but these digital guides completely transform the experience.
Without them, you’re looking at impressive but quite empty rooms. With them, you’re witnessing papal banquets, hearing medieval music, and watching history unfold around you!
The palace itself tells an incredible story. In the 14th century, French popes fled Rome’s political chaos and established their court right here in Avignon. For nearly 70 years, this was the center of Catholic Christianity — imagine the power and intrigue that played out within these walls!
Practical Info: Open 9 AM – 7 PM | €12 (or €14.50 with Pont d’Avignon combo ticket)
Tikets : Get Your Guide | Viator | Tiquets
Notre-Dame des Doms Cathedral: A Romanesque Gem
Right next door to the palace stands this stunning 12th-century cathedral, and it’s absolutely worth the short walk.
The golden statue of Mary crowning the bell tower catches the morning light beautifully, and inside you’ll find the tombs of several popes who chose Avignon as their eternal resting place.
Climb the steps behind the cathedral for some of the most breathtaking panoramic views over the Rhône River you’ll find anywhere in the city.
It’s one of those Instagram-worthy spots that also happens to be genuinely moving.
Practical Info: Entree is free!
Rocher des Doms Garden: A Peaceful Retreat (Currently Closed)
Normally, I’d tell you to spend some time in this lovely elevated garden with its fountains, peacocks, and postcard-perfect views over the city.
Unfortunately, it’s closed for renovations until March 2026.
But keep it on your list for future visits — it’s supposedly magical for a quiet coffee break with a view!
Planning your trip to Provence?
Here is everything to know : how to get there, where to stay, what and where to eat, the best things to see and to do!
How to spend one day in avignon: Midday Foodie Adventures and Local Markets
Les Halles Market: A Sensory Paradise
After all that history, it’s time to engage your other senses at Les Halles market!
This covered market is an absolute feast for food lovers, housed under an eye-catching facade of vertical greenery that’s pretty spectacular in itself.
It kind of reminds me of La Broqueria in Spain. (Shush, don’t tell them I said that!)
Inside, you’ll find everything that makes Provençal cuisine so special: artisanal cheeses that smell like heaven, fresh herbs that perfume the air, olives in every variety you can imagine, and local specialties you won’t find anywhere else.
The colors, aromas, and energy here perfectly capture the essence of southern French market culture.
Local tip: Do what the locals do and grab picnic ingredients here.
A bottle of rosé, some regional cheese, fresh bread, and maybe some of those incredible Provence tomatoes make for the perfect impromptu lunch!
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 6 AM – 2 PM (Closed Mondays)
Lunch: Three Fantastic Options
For a Unique Experience, take a cruise with Grands Bateaux de Provence!
I discovered this amazing boat restaurant that offers 3-course meals while you cruise along the Rhône with views of the city.
At 35 euros without drinks (or 55 with wine), it’s actually comparable to restaurant prices but with the added magic of dining on the water.
The 1.5-2 hour experience feels like a mini vacation within your day trip!
You can book it here : Tripadvisor | TheFork | Official website
If you book through TheFork, use my promo code 83CF8B85 for additional savings!
For Authentic French Atmosphere: Le Trinquet des Carmes became my absolute favorite during my stay. (on my Tiktok account I have a post only about them)
This cozy spot has that genuine French bistro vibe, incredible wine selection (which you can also buy to take home!), and a brilliant concept where you can order either tapas-style portions or full plates.
This means you can taste multiple dishes — and trust me, don’t miss their ribs! They’re phenomenal.
For Classic Provençal Cuisine: La Fourchette serves traditional regional dishes in a warm, welcoming setting that locals genuinely love.
Picnic : Square Agricol Perdiguier
This small green square is the perfect family-friendly spot to spread out a blanket and let the kids run around.
What makes this place special is its fascinating history – it was once a medieval Benedictine abbey cloister, then became a botanical garden in the early 1800s thanks to botanist Esprit Requien.
The shaded benches under grand old trees and open lawn make it ideal for an impromptu picnic, especially after exploring the busy palace and streets.
There’s a charming seasonal restaurant-buvette with a terrace serving homemade Provençal cuisine with local and organic ingredients if you prefer to grab something fresh and eat on-site.
Don’t miss the bright red British phone booth that was gifted by Colchester, Avignon’s twin city – it’s become a beloved quirky landmark that kids absolutely love posing with!
The playground here is something truly special – it’s designed as a “universal” play area where children with any type of disability can play together, with everything built around circular themes that evoke unity and inclusion.
How to spend one day in avignon: Afternoon it’s for Bridges, Art, and Hidden Streets
Pont Saint-Bénézet: The Famous Half-Bridge
You simply cannot visit Avignon without seeing the bridge that made the city famous worldwide!
Even if you learned the song “Sur le pont d’Avignon” as a child (like I did!), standing here in person feels surreal.
Now, I’ll be honest — the bridge itself isn’t the most spectacular structure you’ll ever see.
About half of it collapsed during floods in the 1600s and was never rebuilt.
But here’s what makes the €5 entrance fee totally worth it: the views from the far end of the bridge over the old town are absolutely stunning.
It’s one of those perspective shots that really shows you Avignon’s medieval grandeur from a completely different angle.
Fun historical fact: Despite the famous song, people never actually danced “on” the bridge — they danced “under” it on Barthelasse Island!
Ticket: €5 or included in combo ticket with Palais des Papes
Tikets : Get Your Guide | Tiquets
Petit Palais Museum: Renaissance Masterpieces
Here’s a hidden gem that many visitors miss, even I did during my first visit!
This small but incredible museum houses an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art, including works by Botticelli and Carpaccio.
And the best part? Entry is completely free!
The palace itself is gorgeous, and spending an hour here gives you a nice break from the afternoon heat while immersing yourself in some serious artistic treasures.
Hours: Wednesday–Monday, 10 AM – 1 PM / 2 PM – 6 PM (Closed Tuesdays)
Rue des Teinturiers: The Most Charming Street in Avignon
This canal-lined street is pure magic, especially in the afternoon when the plane trees provide welcome shade.
Historic water wheels still turn lazily along the canal, reminding you that this was once the heart of Avignon’s textile industry where cloth dyers worked their craft.
Today, you’ll find artisan workshops, quirky boutiques, and some of the most photogenic corners in the entire city.
It’s one of those places where you’ll want to walk slowly, peek into courtyards, and maybe grab a coffee at one of the tiny terraces
Place des Corps Saints: Avignon’s Hidden Artistic Heart
This vibrant little plaza feels like stumbling upon a secret that locals have been keeping to themselves.
The old church building has been transformed into bustling artists’ workshops, and you can often catch glimpses of painters and sculptors at work through the windows.
Cozy terraces spill out onto the square, creating the perfect spot to sip wine while watching the creative energy unfold around you.
There’s something magical about seeing sacred architecture given new life as a creative sanctuary – it’s exactly the kind of unexpected transformation that makes Avignon so captivating.
Evening: Golden Hour and Provençal Flavors
Shopping and Strolling: Rue Joseph Vernet & Place de l’Horloge
As the day starts to wind down, head to Rue Joseph Vernet for some serious shopping therapy.
This is where you’ll find handmade Provençal pottery, bottles of local Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine, lavender products, and all those French treasures you’ll want to take home.
Then make your way to Place de l’Horloge, Avignon’s main square, for that magical golden hour experience.
There’s usually a vintage carousel operating, street musicians playing, and that perfect French evening atmosphere we all love.
Secret spot: Near the opera house, look for the old clock tower with two small bronze figures that strike the hours with tiny hammers.
These characters have quite a story — they were designed to announce the arrival of kings and VIPs, call people to elections or town meetings, and most importantly, warn of fires!
While you are in this area, do not miss one of Fragonard’s perfume boutiques, if you haven’t already visited the factory in Grasse!
Also, make sure to enter one of the Viollette Bakeries. They make local Provençal specialties like fougasse, fragrant lavender-infused pastries, and buttery brioches that melt in your mouth. It’s the kind of place where you walk in for “just one croissant” and leave with a bag full of irresistible treats.
Dinner: From Casual to Elegant
For a Relaxed Evening: L’Épicerie offers that perfect bistro atmosphere with seasonal dishes and excellent wine selections. It’s where locals go for genuine, unpretentious dining.
For a Special Splurge: La Mirande provides elegant fine dining that makes for a memorable end to your Avignon adventure. Think refined Provençal cuisine in a sophisticated setting.
For Local Vibes: Find a wine bar with live music or grab a table on one of the terraces near Rue des Teinturiers.
Making the Most of Your Avignon Day Trip
Transportation Tips
- By Car: Park at the Remparts to avoid narrow street navigation
- By Train: Avignon has two stations — Avignon Centre gets you closest to the historic center
- Walking: The entire historic center is easily walkable in one day
Money-Saving Tips
- Get the combo ticket for Palais des Papes and Pont d’Avignon
- Visit Petit Palais Museum for free Renaissance art
- Buy picnic supplies at Les Halles market instead of restaurant lunches
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets
- Light layers (those medieval walls create cool shadows)
- Camera for incredible photo opportunities
- Reusable water bottle (there are public fountains around the city)
Beyond One Day: Why Avignon Deserves a Return Visit
One day in Avignon gives you a wonderful taste of this remarkable city, but honestly? It left me wanting more.
Maybe it’s watching locals do their morning shopping at Les Halles while tourists marvel at papal palaces.
Perhaps it’s that moment when you’re sipping wine on Rue des Teinturiers as the evening light filters through ancient plane trees.
Or it could be the realization that you’re walking streets where some of history’s most powerful figures once lived and ruled.
Whatever it is, Avignon manages to be both a magnificent historical monument and a living, breathing French city.
Whether you’re using Avignon as a gateway to explore more of Provence or savoring it as a standalone destination, one day here offers rich history, incredible culture, delicious food, and that ineffable French art de vivre that makes every moment feel a little more magical.
So pack your curiosity, bring your appetite, and get ready to fall under the spell of this remarkable papal city.
One day in Avignon is more than just a day trip; it’s the beginning of a love affair with one of France’s most enchanting destinations.
author page / EDITORIAL POLICY PAGE
Hi, I’m Ersilia
Toulouse, France
Originally from Romania
English & French Content
As a Romanian expat living in the heart of southern France, I guide English speakers to discover authentic French experiences without the language barrier. My unique perspective as both a local and an expat allows me to share insider tips, cultural insights, and practical advice that you won’t find in typical guidebooks.
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- French life and culture navigation
- Hidden gems across French regions
- Eastern vs Western European perspectives
- Local insights and practical travel tips
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