Things to do in  Avignon

Avignon is often visited as a day trip during longer excursions through Provence. But it also makes a great base for exploring surrounding towns and villages, including Arles (where Van Gogh created many of his paintings) and the salt marshes of the Camargue, famous for its wild horses and pink flamingoes.

A full day is just enough time to visit the 14th-century Palais des Papes, or Papal Palace, once the seat of Christianity before the Vatican; stroll down or photograph the remains of the medieval-era Pont de l’Avignon (Avignon Bridge); and explore the winding, café-and-boutique-filled streets of the historic center.

The Festival d'Avignon, or Avignon Festival, has been an annual showcase for contemporary European theater, dance, and art since 1947, when it was founded by French actor Jean Vilar. Held for several weeks each July, the festival uses iconic sites like the Palais des Papes (Papal Palace) for its stages.

Yes. With its sunny, southern climate, unique medieval heritage, charming historic center, and enviable transport links (it’s reachable in under three hours by TGV from Paris), Avignon is a destination well-worth spending one or several days. Have any longer, and you can explore the surrounding countryside as well.

“Avignon” is a French place name with origins in ancient Greek and Latin, a testament to the city’s millennia-long heritage. The famous pont de l’Avignon remains especially iconic owing to a popular French song dating back to the 16th century, “Sur the pont de l’Avignon” (“On Avignon Bridge”).

No, Avignon, like the rest of Provence, is one of the safest parts of France. Keep in mind, though, that it’s still a city, albeit a very small one. Minor thefts and pickpocketing can still occur, so carry only a photocopy of your passport and consider keeping valuables in your hotel safe.