Only 11 km from the city center, located in the heart of Provence, between the Alpilles and the Durance, you are in Avignon and the wide variety of activities can begin. Make the most of your stay at the 3-star camping near Avignon to explore the city and its surroundings.
Where is Avignon located?
Avignon is one of the most important destinations in Provence, in the southeast of France. Located in the Vaucluse department, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, the city is also called the City of Popes, referring to the medieval period when several Catholic popes made it their home. Among the well-known destinations around Avignon, you’ll find Cavaillon (36 km), Beaucaire (25 km), as well as Remoulins (22 km) and Tavel (15.5 km).
Things to do and see in Avignon?
We have selected some of the must-see places in Avignon, also listed on this Avignon map:
- Palais des Papes: The Palais des Papes is one of the largest buildings from the Middle Ages. Dating back to the 14th century, the monument is said to be almost as large as four combined Gothic cathedrals.
- Pont d’Avignon: Dating back to the 12th century, this iconic bridge once connected France to the Papal territory.
- Cathédrale Notre-Dame-des-Doms: Also dating back to the 12th century, the cathedral is the largest Gothic ensemble from the Middle Ages.
- Musée du Petit Palais: The Petit Palais is easily recognizable by its fortress-like appearance. It was actually a true stronghold, built in the 14th century under the orders of Pope Julius II.
- Rocher des Doms: Located on a promontory on the left bank of the Rhône, the Rocher des Doms is now covered by a beautiful green space, well-known as the Jardin des Doms.
- Place de l’Horloge: The main square of Avignon is where you will find the town hall and the opera house.
- Fort Saint-André: This fortified enclosure on Mount Andaon offers a breathtaking view of Villeneuve-lès-Avignon.
Discover the Palais des Papes in Avignon
This must-visit site can be explored in an ‘academic’ way throughout the year or more intimately by discovering the behind-the-scenes of the Palais des Papes.
You can visit the private apartments of this historic fortress, its baths, wardrobes, chapels, hidden staircases, and gardens, all safely during a guided tour in French, followed by a refreshment. During the holiday weekends in Spring, on May 6, 7, 26, and 27 starting at 2:30 PM, as well as every Saturday in September and October from 10:30 AM, come discover the Palais des Papes in Avignon. A magical show at the heart of the Palais des Papes should not be missed from mid-August to the end of September: the Luminessences. A true 360° show, the performances are in French and English, depending on the schedule.
Recharge your batteries by heading to the heights of Rocher des Doms. Offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city of Avignon and the Rhône River, this lush green space is a true haven of peace. Perfect for a relaxing break, you can stroll through its garden, enjoy the stunning landscapes, and recharge amidst nature, all just steps away from the city’s iconic landmarks.
Une activité à Avignon qu’il ne faut pas louper, la visite du jardin public à l’anglaise sur les hauteurs du Rocher des Doms vous permettra d’admirer les paysages de la plaine du Rhône au Mont Ventoux.
L’entrée est libre. En plein été, c’est un véritable havre de fraîcheur avec son lac, où canards et cygnes se prélassent.
Vous pouvez accéder à ce jardin de trois manières :
Par l’escalier depuis la Place du Palais des Papes.
Par le chemin menant depuis la rue des Lices.
En longeant les remparts du Palais des Papes et en empruntant les allées du jardin.
- From the Place du Palais des Papes
- By the walkway from the Bridge
- By the Sainte Anne staircase, at the back of the Palais des Papes
- By the tourist train
The inevitable Pont d’Avignon
Unavoidable, you will need to visit the Saint-Bénézet Bridge, commonly known as the Pont d’Avignon, and dance if the mood strikes you.
Savoring your taste buds at the Halles of Avignon.
This gigantic covered Provençal market, with 40 merchants who are true ambassadors of taste, quality, and the freshness of local products, welcomes you every morning from Tuesday to Sunday.
Within this exceptional place of life and encounters, you can also let yourself be carried away by the aromas that will escape from the pots and spread through the aisles, with tastings on offer every Saturday from 11 a.m.!
Located at the heart of the Halles (South entrance), this demonstration kitchen, equipped with professional equipment, is there to show, in real life, what a skilled hand can bring out of the quality of the products sold at the Halles.
Note that these stoves are also available for anyone wishing to showcase their family recipes.
The Place de l’Horloge and the Pedestrian Quarter
Among the must-visit places in Avignon, a detour through the beautiful Place de l’Horloge and the Pedestrian Quarter is a must. It’s an essential shopping destination where many stores will allow you to refresh your wardrobe or buy small souvenirs. By taking a detour, you’ll also discover Rue Joseph Vernet, which features a large number of renowned fashion brands.
Visiting museums in Avignon
Finally, because Avignon is full of museums, you can indulge your artistic side by visiting:
- Prehistory at the MUSEE LAPIDAIRE
- Medieval Painting at the MUSEE DU PETIT PALAIS
- Fine Arts at the MUSEE CALVET
- Impressionists at the MUSEE ANGLADON
- Decorative arts at the MUSEE VOULAND
- Contemporary art at the COLLECTION LAMBERT
All eras and styles are represented to suit every taste!
