Things to do in Avignon

Activities, attractions and tours

A historic castle with a prominent tower and a statue on top, overlooking a river with a bridge and greenery in the foreground.
A medieval castle with a central courtyard, arched walkways, and a prominent tower.
Rows of purple lavender fields.
A narrow street lined with historic buildings, including a sign for 'John Mood' and 'Sola Longchamp'.
A historic stone bridge over a river, with tourists walking on it.

Things to do

Enchanting Historical Walking Tour in Avignon

Enchanting Historical Walking Tour in Avignon

RM116
per adult
Enchanting Historical Walking Tour in Avignon
From Avignon: Van Gogh's sites & Les Baux de Provence

From Avignon: Van Gogh's sites & Les Baux de Provence

RM372
per adult
From Avignon: Van Gogh's sites & Les Baux de Provence
Half Day Pont-du-Gard, Uzès, Nîmes Tour from Avignon

Half Day Pont-du-Gard, Uzès, Nîmes Tour from Avignon

RM372
per adult
Half Day Pont-du-Gard, Uzès, Nîmes Tour from Avignon
Avignon Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone

Avignon Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone

RM46
per adult
Avignon Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone
Gordes in Luberon Provence

Gordes, Roussillon(+ Ochre Trail) & Fontaine de Vaucluse

RM535
per adult
Gordes, Roussillon(+ Ochre Trail) & Fontaine de Vaucluse
Avignon: Luberon Valley - Gordes & Roussillon Half-Day Tour

Avignon: Luberon Valley - Gordes & Roussillon Half-Day Tour

RM373
per adult
Avignon: Luberon Valley - Gordes & Roussillon Half-Day Tour
Pont du Gard, Uzès & Nîmes: Half-Day Tour with Entry Fees

Pont du Gard, Uzès & Nîmes: Half-Day Tour with Entry Fees

RM372
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Pont du Gard, Uzès & Nîmes: Half-Day Tour with Entry Fees
Avignon: All About Avignon Tour

Avignon: All About Avignon Tour

RM102
per adult
Avignon: All About Avignon Tour
Half Day Hilltop Villages of Luberon Tour from Avignon

Half Day Villages of Luberon & lavanders Tour from Avignon

RM373
per adult
Half Day Villages of Luberon & lavanders Tour from Avignon
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Top places to visit

1. Palais des Papes

The monumental Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) served as a fortress, residence, administrative center and place of worship. Heavily fortified with its turrets, high towers and thick walls, the palace was the headquarters of the Catholic Church during the 14th century when Rome was torn by political infighting. Today the palace is one of the most visited monuments in France and is the much-loved cultural center of modern day Avignon.
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A historic stone castle with arched windows and a tall tower.

2. Parc des Expositions

Parc des Expositions is a state-of-the-art exhibition and convention center on the outskirts of Avignon. It hosts many large-scale events, including music concerts, sporting matches and hobbyist exhibitions such as car and motorbike shows. Come here to search for bargains at antique fairs, watch sporting teams play or admire works by local or international artists in an exhibition. Attend a trade fair to see what’s new in anything from motor sports to health food.
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A stone bridge over a river with people walking on it, surrounded by lush greenery and trees.

3. Avignon Cathedral

Built over the foundations of a 4th-century Catholic basilica, Avignon Cathedral rose in the 12th-century, but was soon overshadowed by the extravagant Palais des Papes which grew up beside it. Not to be outdone, additions were undertaken over the centuries including the 14th-century cupola, 17th-century choir and the 19th-century gilded statue of Mary. Today, the still-working cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Avignon and the fascinating resting place of French popes.
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An ornate church interior with high vaulted ceilings, arched windows, and intricate stone carvings.

4. Pont Saint-Bénézet

Pont Saint Bénézet or Pont d’Avignon as it is more commonly known, was immortalized in the nursery rhyme Sur le Pont d'Avignon (On the Bridge of Avignon). The ancient stone bridge is a condensed version of its former self. When the 12th-century structure was built it was 2, 952-feet (900-meters) long and spanned the Rhône River. Today it stops abruptly before reaching the other side, but still forms an important link back to Avignon’s early times.
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A stone bridge over a river with people walking on it.

5. Rocher des Doms

Rocher des Doms is an attractive seven-acre (2.8-hectare) park situated on a rocky outcrop above the Palais des Papes. Avignon’s citizens have been promenading here since the 17th century, and today locals and visitors continue to enjoy the tranquility of the park’s gardens, scenic terrace and pond.
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A bridge over a river with a castle in the background.

What to do in Avignon

Stay near popular Avignon attractions

A historic stone castle with arched windows and a tall tower.

Palais des Papes

9.2/10 (1,354 reviews)
This imposing medieval Gothic masterpiece served as the papal residence during the 14th century. Explore grand rooms with Matteo Giovannetti's frescoes and enjoy panoramic views of Avignon from the terraces.
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Where to stay in Avignon

Find the best Avignon areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A historic stone castle with arched windows and a tall tower.

Avignon City Centre

River views, historical sites and museums are some highlights of Avignon City Centre. Make a stop by Place de l'Horloge or Avignon Cathedral while you're exploring.

A historic cityscape with medieval architecture, including a prominent castle and cathedral.

Nord Rocade

While Nord Rocade may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Avignon Festival and City Walls.

A lake surrounded by trees and a distant mountain.

Barthelasse

When in Barthelasse, you can plan a visit to Fort St-Andre and Chartreuse du Val de Benediction, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

A courtyard with a large tree casting shadows, surrounded by a stone building with arched windows and balconies.
Photo by nick board
Open Photo by nick board

Quartier Ouest

While Quartier Ouest isn't home to many top sights, Avignon Festival and Place de l'Horloge are some notable places to visit nearby.

A historic castle with multiple towers and arched windows.

Quartier Nord

Quartier Nord might not have many top sights, but City Walls and Rue des Teinturiers are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

A stone bridge over a river, historic buildings, and a tall church spire.

Sorgues

A historic castle with a prominent tower and a large circular window, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional buildings.

Noves

A narrow street flanked by historic stone buildings with a pink flowering tree on the right.

Chateauneuf-de-Gadagne

Frequently asked questions

Is Avignon worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Avignon is visit Château de la Gardine. Tick this leading attraction off your to-do list, then experience more of the area's culture and history.
How do I spend a day in Avignon?
After you've visited leading attractions like Avignon Ferris Wheel and Château Mont Redon, spend some time exploring Avignon's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Avignon?
Don't go home without checking out Château de la Gardine, rated the top tourist attraction in Avignon.
Is three days enough to stay in Avignon?
Three days in Avignon is enough to enjoy the city's key attractions. Many guests spend three days on average. Avignon Ferris Wheel, Collection Lambert and Musée Louis Vouland are top-rated sights. Like to see more? Stick around a little longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Arles.
Is Avignon a walkable city?
Some major attractions in Avignon, including Avignon Ferris Wheel and Collection Lambert, are within walking distance. You can also explore several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Just 0.32 kilometres from the city centre of Avignon is Avignon City Centre and Piot is 0.97 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Avignon with kids?
If you're searching for sights and activities for all ages, have a look at these terrific ideas for what to do in Avignon with kids.

What to do in Avignon for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Avignon, with entertainment for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Château de la Gardine or Château la Nerthe.
Are there free things to do in Avignon?
In Avignon, Musée Louis Vouland is a must-see spot for anyone looking to experience the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, wander around the local parks and neighbourhoods, and ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. It's a top way to discover the best free things to do in Avignon.