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Avignon: Lavender Fields, Antiques, and the Palais des Papes

Jean-Marc Rosier (de/from http://www.cjrosier.com + http://www.gordes-immobilier.com), Avignon, Palais des Papes depuis Tour Philippe le Bel by JM Rosier, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Jean-Marc Rosier (de/from http://www.cjrosier.com + http://www.gordes-immobilier.com), Avignon, Palais des Papes depuis Tour Philippe le Bel by JM Rosier, CC BY-SA 3.0
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Hello and welcome to my website. My name is Thorsten. I'm a software engineer living in Germany and I love to travel. So I created a site for anyone starting to plan a trip.
What this site is about

✔ Are you planning a self-organized trip to Avignon? Then you've come to the right place. Here you will find information to help you plan your perfect stay in Avignon.

✔ The most important start information for a trip to South France, can be found on the overview page.

✔ And when it comes to the actual planning, you will find the perfect planner for your trip to South France here.
Attraction
Park / Garden

Culture and history, explore and discover

Avignon is a city rich in history and culture, offering visitors a glimpse into its medieval past and vibrant present. Known for its well-preserved architecture and historical significance, the city is a treasure trove for those interested in exploring the intersection of history and culture. With its charming streets, lively festivals, and a strong artistic presence, Avignon provides a unique cultural experience that reflects its storied past and dynamic present.

All sights sorted by distance from center
1. Palace of the Popes, Avignon, UNESCO World Heritage: ⭐ ⭐ A symbol of the church's influence in the western world during the 14th century. Its size and the beauty of its architecture are impressive. Distance in km: 0.28
2. Musée du Petit Palais: ⭐ This museum houses an exceptional collection of Italian paintings from the 13th to the 16th century, as well as a diverse range of sculptures and decorative arts. Distance in km: 0.45
3. Rocher des Doms: ⭐ Rocher des Doms is a beautiful park offering panoramic views of the city, the Rhône River, and the surrounding countryside, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying nature. Distance in km: 0.48
4. Pont d'Avignon: ⭐ The Pont d'Avignon, also known as Pont Saint-Bénézet, is a famous medieval bridge spanning the Rhône River, offering picturesque views and a glimpse into the city's past. Distance in km: 0.58
5. Pont du Gard, Nîmes, UNESCO World Heritage: ⭐ ⭐ An ancient Roman aqueduct bridge that crosses the Gardon River, showcasing the remarkable engineering skills of the Romans. Distance in km: 21.72
6. Les Baux-de-Provence: ⭐ A historic village located atop a rocky outcrop, renowned for its breathtaking views, medieval ruins, and the Château des Baux. Distance in km: 22.81
7. The Lavender Museum, Coustellet: Dedicated to the history of lavender farming in Provence, this museum offers insights into the cultivation, distillation, and uses of lavender. Distance in km: 28.67
8. Abbaye de Sénanque: A beautiful 12th-century Cistercian abbey, surrounded by fields of lavender, representing one of the purest examples of Romanesque architecture in Provence. Distance in km: 30.61
9. Luberon Villages: ⭐ Charming villages like Gordes, Roussillon, and Ménerbes, set in the picturesque Luberon valley, famous for their beauty, history, and cultural heritage. Distance in km: 37.6
10. Arena of Nîmes: ⭐ ⭐ One of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world, today it serves as a venue for concerts and traditional bullfights. Distance in km: 37.98
11. Château de Lacoste: Once the residence of the Marquis de Sade, this castle offers guided tours, cultural events, and stunning views of the Luberon countryside. Distance in km: 39.58
12. The Ochre Trail, Roussillon: A walking trail through the ochre lands of Roussillon, showcasing stunning landscapes of red and yellow cliffs in one of the most beautiful villages of France. Distance in km: 39.64
13. Salon-de-Provence: The hometown of Nostradamus, this picturesque town is known for its medieval and Renaissance architecture, and the Château de l'Empéri. Distance in km: 41.55

Parks, Gardens & Green Areas in the city, relax and enjoy

Avignon offers a serene escape with its blend of historical charm and natural beauty. Visitors can expect a peaceful atmosphere, where the winding streets and ancient architecture provide a backdrop for leisurely exploration. The city is known for its cultural richness and offers various spots for relaxation, from lush gardens to tranquil riverside walks.

1. Rocher des Doms: A beautiful public garden offering panoramic views of Avignon and the Rhône River.

Rocher des Doms is a picturesque public garden located on a hilltop in Avignon, providing stunning views of the city and the surrounding Rhône River. The garden is a perfect spot for relaxation and offers a peaceful environment with lush greenery, fountains, and sculptures. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the well-maintained paths, take in the scenic views, and explore the historical significance of the area.

Type: garden | Fee: free
2. Jardin des Plantes d'Avignon: A historic botanical garden featuring a wide variety of plant species.

Jardin des Plantes d'Avignon is a historic botanical garden that dates back to the 18th century. It houses an impressive collection of plant species, including both local and exotic varieties. The garden is a haven for nature lovers and botanists, offering educational opportunities and a tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy. The garden's layout includes winding paths, themed plant sections, and shaded areas perfect for picnics.

Type: garden | Fee: free
3. Île de la Barthelasse: One of Europe's largest river islands, offering a natural escape with recreational activities.

Île de la Barthelasse is a vast river island located in the Rhône River, accessible from Avignon. It is one of the largest river islands in Europe and provides a natural escape from the city. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as cycling, walking, and picnicking. The island is also home to farms and orchards, offering a glimpse into the local agricultural lifestyle. The scenic beauty and tranquility make it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts.

Type: green_area | Fee: free
4. Parc Chico Mendès: A family-friendly park with playgrounds, sports facilities, and picnic areas.

Parc Chico Mendès is a popular park in Avignon, known for its family-friendly atmosphere. The park features well-maintained playgrounds for children, sports facilities including basketball courts and soccer fields, and ample picnic areas. It is a great place for families to spend the day, offering activities for all ages. The park's lush greenery and open spaces provide a refreshing environment for relaxation and recreation.

Type: park | Fee: free
5. Parc du Clos de la Murette: A small, serene park perfect for leisurely strolls and quiet reflection.

Parc du Clos de la Murette is a lesser-known green space in Avignon, offering a serene and peaceful environment. The park is ideal for leisurely strolls, quiet reflection, and enjoying nature. It features well-kept lawns, shaded areas, and benches where visitors can sit and unwind. The park's intimate setting makes it a hidden gem for those seeking tranquility away from the busier tourist spots.

Type: park | Fee: free

Tourist Information Offices

Here you can find the main tourist information offices where you can get maps, brochures, and assistance with planning your visit.

1. Office de Tourisme d'Avignon

Tourist information center

Address: 41 Cr Jean Jaurès, 84000 Avignon, France
2. Office de Tourisme du Grand Avignon - Villeneuve lez Avignon

Tourist information center

Address: Pl. Charles David, 30400 Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, France

What's the best way to get around as a tourist in Avignon?

Avignon offers a variety of mobility options that cater to both locals and visitors. The city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making walking an enjoyable way to explore its historic streets and attractions. Public transportation is available, providing convenient access to different parts of the city and surrounding areas. Cycling is also a popular choice, with several paths and bike-friendly routes available.

In Avignon, the city center is largely pedestrianized, especially around the famous Palais des Papes and the Pont d'Avignon, making it ideal for walking tours. The local public transportation system, TCRA, operates buses that cover the city and its suburbs, with several lines converging at the central train station. While there is no metro, the bus network is extensive and reliable. For ride-sharing, services like Uber are available, providing an alternative to traditional taxis. Cycling enthusiasts can take advantage of the Vélopop' bike-sharing service, which offers rental stations throughout the city. Practical tips include purchasing a day pass for unlimited bus travel and using the TCRA app for real-time schedule updates. For cyclists, wearing a helmet and following local traffic rules is recommended for safety.