A Perfect Day in Avignon, France
“I had come to the conclusion that I must really be French, only no one had ever informed me of this fact. I loved the people, the food, the lay of the land, the civilized atmosphere, and the generous pace of life.” -Julia Child
Temple Saint-Martial
For me, dreaming of summer always consists of cobblestone streets, lively town squares, glistening fountains, and of course… plenty of gelato. One destination that always comes to mind when these dreams of summer come to me is Provence-Alpes-Cote-D’Azur. As I’ve explained in my first ever blog post, Sibley’s Guide to: Provence, Avignon is about as perfect of a home base as you can get in this region.
If you only happen upon the opportunity to spend one day in Avignon, my recommendation for a day in the city are as follows!
Palais des Papes
Start your day at the Palais des Papes
The gem of Avignon, the Palais des Papes, towers over the main square of Avignon. A 15 minute walk from Avignon’s central train station takes you through the city’s main drag, almost directly to the palais. I recommend getting there as early as possible to beat the crowds as the Palais is the number one tourist attraction! You can tour the fortified palace year round, but be sure to purchase a ticket in advance if you are working with a tight schedule since all ticket reservations are timed! Upon a tour, you will find that the interior is just as grand and beautiful as the exterior. Allow yourself to be transported not only through time but also space by the incroyable frescoes depicting scenes of angels, woodland creatures, and religious icons. You can glance out over the city through stained glass windows, as I liked to imagine the nine popes who resided in the palace had often done.
I think the history of the palace, and therefore Avignon, is fascinating. Although the Palais des Papes is the largest Gothic Palace in the world, I’ve found that many people don’t know this fact or much of why the palace exists at all. Here are the sparknotes… In the 14th century Pope Clement V wished to move the seat of the Catholic Papacy to France. At the time the move was justified as a means of protecting the Pope from the anger and chaos in Rome regarding his election. Avignon then became the home of the next seven popes, all of whom were also French. In 1378, Pope Gregory XI left Avignon for Rome, and the following two Popes of Avignon governed in opposition to the legitimate Pope of Rome. By 1403, the papacy had been expelled from Avignon. The museum of the Palais des Papes has artifacts from this time period, also know as The Great Schism of 1378, including letters of correspondence between Avignon and Rome.
Just next door, the Avignon Cathedral, officially Notre Dame des Doms d’Avignon, is the final resting place of the Popes of Avignon and should also be visited on your trek through the city. The cathedral was built in the 12th century but was partially reconstructed in 1405 after the original bell tower collapsed.
Notre Dame des Doms d’Avignon
Pont d’Avignon
The walkway on the north side of Notre Dame des Doms will take you to the Jardin des Doms, or the Doms’ Garden. The gardens are filled with fountains, duck ponds, grottoes, statues, a cafe and even a vineyard! As you reach the far side of the park you’ll be met with the breathtaking view over the Rhone and Provence beyond! The Point de Vue direction Pont d'Avignon, an observation deck that offers the perfect view of the Pont d’Avignon, is a great place to sit for a moment while you take in the sights.
From the observation deck, head to the Porte du Rocher Tower where you can make the descent back to street level inside the fortified tower! Once on street level, you can make your way through the old city gate and towards the Pont d’Avignon.
The Pont d’Avignon, really the Pont Saint-Bénézet, is what remains of a medieval bridge that once reached the opposite banks of the Rhone. The four surviving arches have become a symbol of Avignon, making appearances on post cards, magnets, t-shirts and more. If you wish to meander across what is left of the stone bridge you will need to pay an entrance fee of €5. There is an option to combine your Pont d’Avignon admission with your Palais des Papes ticket for €17!
Place de l'Horloge Carousel shot on 35mm
Place de l'Horloge and Les Halles
After you head back through the city walls, make your way to the Place de l’Horloge. This lively part of town is home to a plethora of delicious restaurants, all with outdoor seating so you can take in the ambience around you! The Church of Saint-Agricol or Eglise Saint-Agricol and the Basilique Saint-Pierre are also in this neighborhood and are worthy of a visit.
A five minute walk from Place de l’Horloge you can explore Les Halles d’Avignon, Avignon’s indoor market. Peruse more than 40 stalls filled with Provencal goodies from produce and fish to wine, cheese and pastries! Here you can gather treats to snack on for the journey back to your accommodation.
Day Trip Map of Avignon
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