Avignon is a captivating destination that enchants visitors with its charm. Nestled along the Rhône River, this sunlit city serves as the entry point to the renowned Côtes du Rhône wine region. Avignon boasts vibrant traditional markets, innovative culinary experiences, and remarkable art museums, topped with one of the most stunning Gothic structures in existence. Whether your purpose is to visit the impressive UNESCO World Heritage site of the Palais des Papes—home to the papacy during the 14th century—savor exquisite southern French wines and delectable Provençal dishes, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll similar to the classic French tune about dancing on the Pont d’Avignon, this city offers an effortless getaway. Travel by train from the UK in roughly six hours, and you’ll find that most attractions lie within walking distance of the city’s nearly three miles of late-medieval walls. For ease of access to popular sites, consider acquiring the Avignon City Pass, which grants free entry to many of the city’s key attractions, including the Palais des Papes, Collection Lambert, and the Angladon Museum, available for a reasonable price.

Two-Day Itinerary for Avignon

Day One

• Morning: Start at Place des Carmes and check out Les Halles • Dining: Enjoy a meal at Cuisine Centr’Halles • Afternoon: Explore the Palais des Papes • Drinks: Relax at Café Roma • Evening: Visit Le Vin Devant Soi • Dinner: Dine at V&G

Day Two

• Morning: Visit the iconic Pont d’Avignon • Dining: Breakfast at La Fourchette • Afternoon: Discover Musée Angladon • Drinks: Stop by Baryum 56 • Evening: Admire Collection Lambert • Dinner: Eat at Le 17

Must-See Attractions

• On Saturdays, the outdoor market at Place des Carmes is bustling with locals shopping for their weekly groceries, providing a great opportunity to sample regional specialties like banon cheese (a goat’s cheese wrapped in chestnut leaves). Stroll over to Mimi Boulangerie nearby for a pastry, and enjoy a coffee at Mon Bar. Don’t miss Les Halles, the city’s main covered market, featuring an array of exquisite Provençal olives, wines, and cheeses.
• The Palais des Papes, recognized by UNESCO, represents the largest preserved Gothic palace worldwide. Once the center of Catholic power for seven popes from 1309 to 1376, this grand structure features austere stone architecture and richly decorated rooms, including works by the eminent artist Simone Martini. An informative digital guide is included with the entrance fee (£12).
• Le Vin Devant Soi is an exceptional wine shop showcasing over 400 southern French wines, with around 30 available for tasting. Don’t miss the chance to try a Côtes du Rhône white wine, which is a standout choice not commonly found elsewhere. The adjacent shop offers local gin tastings as well.
• Take a stroll across the historic Pont d’Avignon, the UNESCO-listed bridge with four remaining arches from its original 22. Dating back to the 13th century, the bridge extends into the Rhône near the ramparts of the Jardin des Doms, a public garden. The best views can be captured from the middle of Pont Édouard Daladier or from the terrace of Jardin des Doms.
• Musée Angladon, a small yet impressive museum, is home to a remarkable collection inherited from fashion designer Jacques Doucet by artists Jean Angladon and Paulette Martin. Here, you can view masterpieces by Van Gogh, Degas, Seurat, and Picasso in a calm environment.
• Collection Lambert features a distinguished private collection of contemporary art, including works by Jean-Michel Basquiat and Cy Twombly, showcased in beautiful 18th-century mansions.

Dining and Drinking in Avignon

Cuisine Centr’Halles

Renowned Californian chef Jonathan Chiri has been a key player in Provence’s culinary landscape for over two decades. His compact eatery located inside Les Halles features a menu that changes daily based on fresh ingredients. Expect dishes like lavender-marinated duck breast or brown butter-seared scallops. Space is limited, so reservations are advisable.

Café Roma

Located down a narrow alley next to the Popes’ Palace, this peaceful café offers a lovely terrace to enjoy coffee, drinks, or light bites amidst a tranquil atmosphere.

V&G

This exceptional vegetarian and pescatarian restaurant highlights local and seasonal ingredients with dishes like open ravioli featuring mushrooms or fish of the day paired with polenta soufflé.

La Fourchette

This family-run gem has been operating for three generations. Seasonal menus offer delightful dishes, including asparagus with pesto or slow-cooked beef stew prepared with wine and Provençal herbs.

Baryum 56

Located near the scenic Place des Corps Saints and Place Saint-Didier, Baryum 56 is a cozy cocktail bar featuring creative drinks often made with local ingredients.

Le 17

Le 17, described as a wine hub with a Provençal twist on tapas, offers excellent local wines and small plates to share in a relaxed setting. It’s conveniently located next to the Église des Célestins, an exhibition space.

Accommodation Options in Avignon

Hôtel de Cambis

This charming boutique hotel is conveniently situated near Rue de la République, just a short walk from the Palais des Papes. The spacious Grand Cru Junior Suites feature stylish decorations, high ceilings, and comfortable accommodations.

Hôtel de l’Horloge

Perfectly positioned near the Palais des Papes, this reasonably-priced hotel offers comfortable rooms, some with terraces, and a delightful breakfast area filled with lush plants.

La Mirande

Adjacent to the Popes’ Palace, La Mirande is a luxurious boutique hotel set in a historic 14th-century building, showcasing elegant rooms and a Michelin-starred dining experience.

Transportation and Accessibility

Reaching Avignon from the UK is straightforward via train—take the Eurostar from London to Paris (2 hours 20 minutes) and then continue to Avignon (2 hours 40 minutes). Alternatively, flights to Marseilles followed by a train or car ride will get you to Avignon within 90 minutes. The compact city center is pedestrian-friendly, with bike rentals available.

Explore Beyond Avignon

For those with additional time, consider a quick train ride to Carpentras to explore the impressive Musée Inguimbertine, set in a stunning 18th-century building that recently reopened. Beyond Avignon lies the picturesque Côtes du Rhône wine region and the striking landscapes of Mont Ventoux.