Things to do in Avignon : What is this town known for
Avignon is one of France’s most historically significant cities, best known as the “City of the Popes.” During the 14th century, it served as the seat of the Catholic Church, when seven successive popes ruled from Avignon instead of Rome between 1309 and 1377. This period transformed the city into one of Europe’s most important political, religious and cultural capitals.
Today, Avignon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its magnificent medieval architecture, remarkably preserved city walls and vibrant Provençal atmosphere. Visitors come to admire the immense Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), Europe’s largest Gothic palace, stroll through charming cobbled streets, and visit the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet (Pont d’Avignon) made famous by the French song Sur le Pont d’Avignon.
Beyond its history, Avignon is also celebrated for its lively cafés, bustling markets, excellent restaurants and the internationally renowned Festival d’Avignon, one of the world’s largest performing arts festivals held every July.
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The Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes)
The Palais des Papes is the most famous landmark in Avignon and one of the largest and best-preserved Gothic palaces in Europe. Built between 1335 and 1352, it served as the residence of the Popes during the period when the papacy moved from Rome to Avignon. For almost 70 years, seven successive popes ruled the Catholic Church from this magnificent fortress-palace, making Avignon one of the most influential cities in medieval Europe.
Covering more than 15,000 square metres, the palace combines the strength of a military fortress with the elegance of a royal residence. Visitors can explore grand ceremonial halls, richly decorated chapels, papal apartments, audience chambers, kitchens, cloisters, and defensive towers. Many rooms still feature remarkable 14th-century frescoes painted by the Italian artist Matteo Giovannetti, offering a rare glimpse into medieval court life.
Today, the Palais des Papes is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. It is also one of the main venues during the world-famous Festival d’Avignon, where its impressive Cour d’Honneur courtyard becomes an open-air theatre.
Visiting with a private guide helps bring the palace’s fascinating history to life, revealing stories of powerful popes, political intrigue, religious conflicts, and medieval architecture that are easily missed when exploring independently.
Place de l'Horloge
Place de l’Horloge is the vibrant heart of Avignon and one of the city’s most popular gathering places. Surrounded by elegant historic buildings, bustling cafés, restaurants, and leafy plane trees, the square has been the social centre of Avignon for centuries. Its name comes from the medieval clock tower that still dominates the square alongside the magnificent Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall).
Throughout the day, Place de l’Horloge buzzes with life as locals and visitors relax on café terraces, browse nearby shops, or simply enjoy the lively Provençal atmosphere. Street performers, musicians, and artists often entertain crowds, especially during the famous Festival d’Avignon, when the square transforms into an open-air stage filled with performers, theatre companies, and festival-goers from around the world.
The square is also an excellent starting point for exploring Avignon’s narrow medieval streets, with many of the city’s main attractions—including the Palais des Papes—just a short walk away. Historic façades, charming architecture, and shaded terraces make it one of the best places to pause and experience everyday life in the city.
Pont Saint-Bénézet (Pont d'Avignon)
The Pont Saint-Bénézet, better known as the Pont d’Avignon, is one of France’s most iconic landmarks and a symbol of the city. Built in the 12th century, the bridge originally stretched nearly 900 metres across the Rhône River with 22 arches, linking Avignon to Villeneuve-lès-Avignon. However, repeated floods damaged the structure over the centuries, leaving just four arches standing today.
The bridge is closely associated with the famous French song “Sur le Pont d’Avignon,” known around the world. Visitors can walk along the preserved section while enjoying spectacular views of the Rhône River, the Palais des Papes, and the city skyline. Halfway across stands the beautiful Chapel of Saint Nicholas, dedicated to the patron saint of boatmen and fishermen.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pont Saint-Bénézet offers far more than a photo opportunity. It tells the story of medieval engineering, trade, and the importance of the Rhône as one of Europe’s major transport routes. Interactive displays explain its remarkable history and the legend of the shepherd Bénézet, who is said to have been divinely inspired to build the bridge.
Les Halles Market
Les Halles d’Avignon is the city’s premier covered food market and one of the best places to experience authentic Provençal cuisine and local culture. Located just a few minutes from the Palais des Papes, the market is home to around 40 specialist traders selling the finest regional produce, including fresh fruit and vegetables, artisan cheeses, cured meats, seafood, olives, herbs, pastries, wines, and traditional Provençal delicacies.
One of the market’s most striking features is its spectacular vertical garden, a living wall covered with hundreds of plants that has become an architectural landmark in its own right. Inside, visitors are greeted by colourful displays, tempting aromas, and passionate local producers eager to share their knowledge and products.
Les Halles is much more than a place to shop. It is a celebration of Provençal gastronomy, where chefs, residents, and visitors come together to discover seasonal ingredients and regional specialities. Throughout the year, the market also hosts cooking demonstrations, tastings, and culinary events showcasing the rich food traditions of southern France.
Visiting with a private guide allows you to meet trusted local vendors, learn about regional products, sample authentic flavours, and discover hidden culinary gems you might otherwise miss. For food lovers, Les Halles offers one of the most memorable and delicious experiences in Avignon.
