{"id":14014,"date":"2026-07-09T15:45:07","date_gmt":"2026-07-09T13:45:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/provencelovers.fr\/why-visit-avignon-reasons\/"},"modified":"2026-07-09T16:31:02","modified_gmt":"2026-07-09T14:31:02","slug":"why-visit-avignon-reasons","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/provencelovers.fr\/en\/why-visit-avignon-reasons\/","title":{"rendered":"Is Avignon worth visiting? Our 10 reasons (+ photos)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Avignon, a former papal city nestled on the banks of the Rh\u00f4ne, combines medieval history, a vibrant cultural scene, and the relaxed Proven\u00e7al way of life. We were captivated by the diversity of its cultural heritage, from the Palais des Papes to its museums and gardens perched on the Rocher des Doms. <\/p>\n\n

This town in the Vaucluse region appeals to history buffs and theater enthusiasts alike during the Avignon Festival.In this article, we share with you 10 reasons to visit this city.<\/p>\n\n

\"Why<\/figure>\n\n
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This guide is completely independent<\/strong>, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n

Is Avignon worth visiting?<\/h2>\n\n

Avignon is well worth a visit, if only for its Palais des Papes, one of the largest Gothic buildings in the world. We enjoyed the city’s rich cultural offerings, including museums, a theater festival, and lively side streets. <\/p>\n\n

You’ll also discover the Proven\u00e7al way of life, with markets, restaurants, and walks along the Rh\u00f4ne. We list the reasons in more detail below. You can also take a look at our selection of the city’s top attractions.<\/p>\n\n

Reason 1 – A UNESCO-listed architectural complex, located between the Palais des Papes and the Pont Saint-B\u00e9n\u00e9zet<\/h2>\n\n
\"Palace<\/figure>\n\n

The Palais des Papes has overlooked the city since the 14th century, a period during which the papacy left Rome to settle in Provence for nearly 70 years. We were struck by the size of the Old Palace and the New Palace, and by the frescoes by the painter Matteo Giovannetti that remain in the Saint-Martial Chapel.<\/p>\n\n

\"Avignon—A<\/figure>\n\n

Just a few steps away, the Saint-B\u00e9n\u00e9zet Bridge\u2014also built in the 12th century\u2014retains only four of its original twenty-two arches: a unique appearance that we find moving. You can book a combined ticket to visit both attractions without waiting in line. Book your combined ticket for the Palais des Papes and the Bridge here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n

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WHERE TO STAY IN Avignon<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Downtown Avignon, close to all the attractions La Divine Com\u00e9die <\/strong> Hotel \u2013 <\/strong><\/strong> check photos and availability<\/a>Cambis Hotel<\/strong> – Check photos and availability<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Villeneuve-l\u00e8s-Avignon, on the other side of the bridgeLe <\/strong>Prieur\u00e9 Hotel <\/strong>\u2013 check photos and availability<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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\"Cambis<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

See our selection of the best hotels in Avignon<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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See the top-rated accommodations in Avignon ><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n

Reason 2 – A historic district best explored on foot, from square to square<\/h2>\n\n
\"Historic<\/figure>\n\n

The historic center of Avignon, surrounded by ramparts, can easily be explored on foot in about an hour and a half. Rue des Teinturiers, lined with plane trees and bordered by a branch of the Sorgue River, is one of our favorite places, with its old waterwheels that remind us of the textile industry of days gone by. <\/p>\n\n

\"Avignon<\/figure>\n\n

Place Pie, bustling with its market and outdoor cafes, is a good starting point for exploring the narrow streets, while Place de l’Horloge is home to City Hall and the Op\u00e9ra Grand Avignon, surrounded by 19th-century facades. You can sit out on the patio there before continuing your exploration.<\/p>\n\n

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OUR TPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR IN \nProvence<\/span><\/h5>\n\n\n\n