Things to do in Avignon

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Palais des Papes showing heritage architecture and a castle

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Avignon must see attractions

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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Palais des Papes which includes heritage elements and heritage architecture

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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Parc des Expositions showing a river or creek and a small town or village

3. 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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Pont d\'Avignon which includes a river or creek, a bridge and heritage elements

4. 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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Avignon Cathedral featuring interior views, heritage architecture and a church or cathedral

5. City Walls

The walled city of Avignon has been encircled by defensive walls since as far as Roman times, though the current city walls only date back to the 14th century. Wander around the perimeter of the old city, which is delineated by the historic walls, and venture up on the ramparts to admire views over the city and the River Rhone.
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Avignon featuring heritage elements

Discover the most popular places to visit in Avignon

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Palais des Papes

4.5/5(125 reviews)

Built to house and protect France’s 14th-century popes, one of Europe’s largest Gothic palaces dominates Avignon’s skyline and cultural life.

Palais des Papes
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Parc des Expositions

4.5/5(9 reviews)

Attend a concert, sporting event, art exhibition or even a circis at this stunning center just outside Avignon.

Parc des Expositions
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Pont Saint-Bénézet

4.5/5(69 reviews)

One of Avignon’s most iconic landmarks is a bridge that literally goes nowhere, yet continues to draw travelers from all over the globe.

Pont Saint-Bénézet
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Avignon Cathedral

4.5/5(44 reviews)

Celebrate mass in this resting place of 14th-century popes, or simply visit to enjoy the spiritual and artistic treasures within this beautiful Romanesque cathedral.

Avignon Cathedral
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Rue de la Republique

You can learn about the history of Avignon with a stop at Rue de la Republique. Discover the festivals and cathedral in this walkable area.

Rue de la Republique
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City Walls

Running for a length of more than 2 miles, these medieval fortifications draw a boundary around the historic core of Avignon.

City Walls
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Rue des Teinturiers

You can learn about the history of Avignon with a trip to Rue des Teinturiers. Discover the festivals and cathedral in this walkable area.

Rue des Teinturiers
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Eglise Saint Pierre

You can find out about the history of Avignon when you stop by Eglise Saint Pierre. Stroll along the area's riverfront or simply enjoy its local cheese shops.

Eglise Saint Pierre
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Avignon Festival

3/5(1 review)

Enjoy a show at Avignon Festival, a theater with a story to tell in Avignon. Stroll along the riverfront or experience the area's festivals.

Avignon Festival

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Avignon

Palais des Papes which includes heritage elements and heritage architecture

Avignon City Centre

4.5/5(173 area reviews)

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

Avignon City Centre

Popular day trips from Avignon

Photo "Chateaurenard" by PJMarriott (CC BY) / Cropped from original
Photo by PJMarriott (CC BY)

Chateaurenard