Fernweh
    ExploreTravel GuidesMy Trips
    de|en
    About FernwehImprintFAQPrivacy Policy
    ExploreTravel GuidesMy Trips
    Avignon

    Avignon

    CityCulture
    1. Home
    3. Destinations
    5. France
    7. Provence
    9. Avignon
    Historical Avignon in Provence is inextricably linked to its time as a papal seat in the 14th century. Its imposing city walls enclose an Old Town that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will be particularly impressed by the Palais des Papes, Europe's largest Gothic palace, and the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge, known as the Pont d'Avignon. Stroll through the narrow streets and bustling squares to experience the city's authentic flair. From the Rocher des Doms rock, you can also enjoy a wide view over the city and the Rhône. For a more relaxed experience, a visit in spring or autumn is recommended to avoid the summer heat and peak tourist crowds.
    • Neighborhoods & highlights
    • Walking tours
    • Eat & drink
    • Culture
    • Nightlife
    • Getting around
    • Accommodation
    • Plan trip
    • Nearby
    • Neighborhoods & highlights
    • Walking tours
    • Eat & drink
    • Culture
    • Nightlife
    • Getting around
    • Accommodation
    • Plan trip
    • Nearby

    Overview

    Avignon, a city in Provence, is inextricably linked to its 14th-century history as a papal seat. Its well-preserved city walls enclose an Old Town that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You'll discover the imposing Palais des Papes, Europe's largest Gothic palace, and the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet, also known as Pont d'Avignon, as key attractions. Stroll through the narrow streets and lively squares to experience the city's authentic flair. From the Rocher des Doms rock, you'll enjoy panoramic views over the city and the Rhône. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting in spring or autumn to avoid the summer heat and peak tourist crowds, and to explore the local markets at leisure.

    Places in Avignon

    Discover the most important sights and attractions

    Sights in Avignon

    1Basilique Saint-Pierre

    Basilika von 1358 im Stil der provenzalischen Gotik mit aus Walnussholz geschnitzten Türen und Kunstwerken im Innenraum.
    Open in Google Maps

    2Papstpalast

    Papstpalast, einst in Konkurrenz zum Vatikan stehend, mit 25 offenen Räumen, Fresken & Kulturveranstaltungen.
    Open in Google Maps

    3Musée Calvet

    Esprit Calvets Sammlung mit ägyptischen, griechischen und römischen Artefakten, archäologischen Funden und europäischen Gemälden.
    Open in Google Maps

    4Musée Lapidaire

    Kleines Museum in einer Kirche aus dem 17. Jh. mit griechischen, römischen und etruskischen Skulpturen, Vasen und Glasobjekten.
    Open in Google Maps

    5The Hill of Mourgues

    Der Rocher des Doms, oft als 'The Hill of Mourgues' bezeichnet, ist der historische Ursprung Avignons und thront strategisch über der Rhône. Hier findest du nicht nur den imposanten Papstpalast und die Kathedrale Notre-Dame des Doms, sondern auch den wunderschönen Jardin des Doms. Dieser Landschaftsgarten bietet dir nach dem Aufstieg eine grüne Oase der Ruhe und unvergleichliche Panoramablicke. Von den Aussichtspunkten siehst du den Pont Saint-Bénézet, die Rhône und die umliegende Landschaft bis nach Villeneuve-lès-Avignon. Der Hügel war bereits in der Antike besiedelt und ist somit der Gründungsort der Stadt. Unser Tipp: Besuche den Rocher des Doms am späten Nachmittag, um das goldene Licht auf den historischen Gebäuden einzufangen und den Sonnenuntergang über dem Fluss zu erleben. Für das beste Fotomotiv des Pont d'Avignon mit dem Papstpalast im Hintergrund positioniere dich am südwestlichen Aussichtspunkt des Gartens.
    Open in Google Maps

    6Papstpalast

    Bestauge in Avignon den gewaltigen Papstpalast, das größte gotische Bauwerk Europas und Zeugnis einer reichen Geschichte.
    Open in Google Maps

    City walks in Avignon

    Curated walking tours through the city's highlights — handpicked by experienced travel journalists.

    Avignon en Scène: Eine Reise durch die Theaterstadt und Kunstviertel

    Entdecken Sie Avignons lebendige Kunst- und Theaterszene abseits der Papstmauern. Dieser Spaziergang führt Sie zu historischen Spielstätten, renommierten Museen und versteckten Gassen, die die Stadt während des berühmten Festival d'Avignon und darüber hinaus mit kulturellem Leben erfüllen. Erleben Sie das moderne und künstlerische Herz der Stadt.

    ~2 Std. 30 Min.
    In Google Maps öffnen
    Stopps (8)

    Food & Drink

    Avignon: Culture, Art & History

    Avignon is deeply rooted in the history of Provence and closely linked to the era of the Papacy in the 14th century. This period profoundly shaped the city and led to the construction of imposing structures that still dominate its skyline today.Avignon's architectural masterpiece is undoubtedly the Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This Gothic palace, once the residence of the Popes, combines a fortress with a luxurious palace and testifies to the political and religious power of that era. Equally iconic is the Pont Saint-Bénézet, known as Pont d'Avignon, whose only remaining arches reach the riverbank and are surrounded by their own legend.Beyond these historical monuments, Avignon is also renowned for its vibrant culture. The annual Festival d'Avignon, one of the oldest and largest theatre festivals in the world, transforms the city every summer into a stage for performing arts from around the globe. It underscores Avignon's role as a center for contemporary art and tradition, while the Provençal way of life remains tangible through local markets and regional cuisine.

    Nightlife

    Avignon's nights are just as charming as its days, offering a delightful blend of relaxed wine bars, lively pubs, and vibrant dance clubs. Most nightlife venues are concentrated in the historic old town, where visitors can find everything from intimate jazz sessions to exuberant parties.

    Getting Around Locally

    Avignon is best explored on foot, especially the charming Old Town with its many historic alleys. For longer distances or trips to the TGV station, the efficient Orizo network of buses and a tram line offers a convenient alternative. Bicycles are also a popular way to actively discover the city and its surrounding areas.

    Accommodations in Avignon

    Accommodations in Avignon

    Find perfect stay in Avignon

    Booking.com
    Search Hotels
    Agoda
    Search Hotels
    Airbnb
    Vacation Rentals
    Hotels.com
    Hotels Worldwide
    Hostelworld
    Hostels

    Campgrounds in Avignon

    Find perfect campground in Avignon

    Search via Google Maps
    Campgrounds nearby (15km)
    Camping.info
    Find Campgrounds
    Park4Night
    RV Parks & Camping

    Plan your trip to Avignon

    Save places, build a route and plan your city trip — all in one place.

    Save places

    Bookmark sights, restaurants and neighborhoods you're interested in.

    Build your route

    Turn your bookmarks into a route — define order, days and budget.

    Refine with AI

    Let Mein Fernweh suggest experiences and put together a tailored daily plan.

    Start trip planningOpen bookmarks

    Locations nearby

    These places are nearby — perfect for additional days or a day trip.

    Provence

    Provence

    The Provence is a region in southeastern France that captivates visitors with its unique blend of Roman history, medieval charm, and breathtaking natural landscapes. From its famous lavender fields to vibrant cities and picturesque coastal towns, Provence offers a wealth of experiences that perfectly combine culture, cuisine, and relaxation.
    Pont du Gard

    Pont du Gard

    The Pont du Gard is an outstanding testament to Roman engineering and ranks among the best-preserved ancient aqueducts worldwide. This impressive structure spans the Gardon River and was once part of a 50-kilometer-long aqueduct system that supplied the city of Nîmes with fresh water. You can extensively explore its three superimposed rows of arches, appreciating the impressive scale of this over 2000-year-old construction. The accompanying museum and visitor center offers you deep insights into the aqueduct's construction and history. For an undisturbed experience, a late afternoon visit is recommended to enjoy the golden hour and fewer visitors. In summer, the Gardon below the Pont du Gard invites you to swim and relax. A walk along the riverbank also reveals additional picturesque views of the monument.
    Gordes

    Gordes

    Welcome to Gordes, one of France's most beautiful villages! This village, majestically perched on a rocky spur in the heart of the Luberon, will enchant you with its terraced stone houses that seem to rise organically from the rock. Stroll through the labyrinthine streets, enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view of the valley, and let yourself be captivated by the golden light of Provence in this iconic postcard setting.
    Arles

    Arles

    Arles is a city with a deep-rooted history, shaped by its Roman heritage and the artistic presence of Vincent van Gogh. Here, you can explore impressive Roman structures such as the well-preserved amphitheater Arènes d'Arles and the ancient theater, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Roman cryptoporticus and the Alyscamps burial ground also bear witness to the city's former importance. The city significantly inspired Vincent van Gogh, whose traces can be found at places like Café la Nuit or in the garden of the Hôtel-Dieu. The Fondation Vincent van Gogh Arles presents his work in the context of contemporary art. For an authentic experience, a visit to the lively Saturday market is worthwhile. The best time to visit is spring or autumn, to enjoy the city with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
    Saint-Gilles

    Saint-Gilles

    Discover Saint-Gilles, a charming town in the heart of the Petite Camargue, where history meets Southern French lifestyle. You stand before the impressive UNESCO World Heritage Abbey Church, its detailed Romanesque facade transporting you to a bygone era. Be enchanted by the authentic ambiance of this place, welcoming you amidst historic streets and the flavors of local cuisine.