The enchanting villagesque city of Avignon is one of the most beloved places in southeastern France, attracting tourists in droves.

Often considered the gateway to Provence (yes, like the herbes de), Avignon is a historic and cultural treasure trove, renowned for its majestic medieval architecture and decades spent as Pope HQ before the Vatican.

But there’s more to Avignon than just these main sights! As a university town, Avignon is surprisingly vibrant, with a booming food scene, year-round festivals and trendy boutiques.

Though it’s small and many visitors just stop in for a half day trip, there’s actually a surprising number of things to do in Avignon if you know where to look… So, read on for a list of Avignon must-sees, from a swishy pope palace and musically famous bridge to lesser known hidden gems. I hope you find this helpful!

Though its stint as a papal residence spanned less than a century, hands down, the #1 thing to do in Avignon is a visit to its epic Palace of the Popes, a UNESCO World Heritage site that today encompasses magnificent halls, chapels, and stunning views.

Back in the 14th century, this would have been the center of the Catholic church, as seven successive Popes resided in Avignon when the chaotic political situation in Rome required a quick papal relocation.

And so, this magnificent palace symbolizes the height of ecclesiastical power and political influence that the Popes wielded during the 14th century. To this day it’s still the biggest Gothic palace in the whole world!

In 1377, Pope Gregory XI moved the Papacy back to Rome. However, the palace remained a papal possession and was later used by legates and vice-legates… before being seized and used as a military barracks and prison during the French Revolution.

Today, the Palais des Papes is one of the major tourist attractions in Avignon with guided tours, exhibitions, events and even festivals held within its grounds for visitors to enjoy… so make sure you come by for a look.

Another Avignon attraction connected to the Palais des Papes is the small, but tranquil Pontifical Palace Gardens, which opened to the public in 2018.

This oasis of tranquillity is where you can admire the medieval garden design and catch your breath after exploring the palace. There are benches and fountains located under the shade of the high palace walls, along with a recreation of garden beds with the same plants that were grown in the papal gardens in the 1300s.

Entry to the gardens is included in your ticket to the palace, but be aware that the gardens close an hour before the rest of the palace – so don’t get stuck in there!

Next on our list of Avignon must-dos is of course the beloved Pont d’Avignon, AKA Pont Saint-Bénézet, a medieval bridge that was built between 1177 and 1185 (according to legend) by a young shepherd named Bénézet who was divinely inspired to build it.

And build he did! Kind of. Eagle-eyed observers will notice that the bridge doesn’t look quite… finished. Well, while this picturesque pont did originally span the Rhône River (connecting Avignon to Villeneuve-lès-Avignon), it was frequently damaged by floods and then abandoned in the 17th century… hence its partial prowess today.

But hey, just as London Bridge is known the world over thanks to a silly song, this bridge is a beloved French landmark with its own melodic legacy, the famous French nursery rhyme “Sur le Pont d’Avignon” (On Avignon Bridge).

Trust me when I say that French people go wild over this song. My second visit to Avignon was when I worked on board a river cruise that brought a group of (mostly French) passengers here… so of course they blasted the song a few times as we arrived. I’ve never seen so many happy French people bop and sing in unison while praising a bridge. It was pretty cute.

Songs aside, today a visit to this bridge is one of the most popular things to do in Avignon. You can pay to enter the bridge for €5 (for adults) but make sure you check the website for opening times as they change throughout the year. Again, don’t expect to fully cross it – only four arches of the original bridge survive.

You can also bundle your entrance to Pont d’Avignon and the Palace of the Popes to save money!

Honestly though, if you’re short on time, just a look at it from above will do. One of the best places for this is at…

4. Rocher des Doms

If you’re looking for a more relaxing Avignon activity, be sure to stop by the Rocher des Doms, a charming park overlooking the city and the Rhône.

Here, you’ll find the best vantage point of the city’s famous bridge, along with lush gardens, fountains, and picturesque views. On a sunny day, this would be the perfect spot for a little picnic.

5. Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms (Avignon Cathedral)

Another main attraction to check out in Avignon is the city’s cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms, which offers a stunning example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

It’s located right next door to the Papal Palace and most recognisable for the gilded statue of Mary on the very top. The cathedral holds immense historical and religious significance thanks to its stint as the main church for the Popes during their stay in Avignon, becoming a symbol of their influence and authority.

Today, the Avignon Cathedral remains an active place of worship and a major tourist attraction. Visitors can see the tombs of several Popes, along with beautiful artworks, including frescoes and statues. The cathedral is open Monday to Saturdays during the day and on Sundays in the afternoon, but you can check the complete hours (which differ slightly during winter and summer) here.

6. Les Halles d’Avignon

With Provencal cuisine’s legendary status, no surprise that one of the best things to do in Avignon involves food… and lots of it!

Les Halles d’Avignon is a bustling indoor market offering fresh produce and local delicacies with more than 40 vendors inside a very cool building that has an impressive greenery wall on the outside. Okay, sure, the top floors of the building are parking but even the ground floor of the market space feels massive, especially as there’s so much on offer.

The market is open Tuesday to Sunday from 6am until 1:30pm on weekdays and 2pm on weekends, so it’s the perfect spot for a delicious breakfast or lunch.

Here, you can fill your gullet with a myriad of local treats, including baguettes, croissants, cakes, cheeses, sausages, seafood, patés, fruit, chocolate and more, with seating areas dotted throughout to sit down and appreciate the laid-back vibes. If you’re a foodie in search of fun Avignon activities, this one’s a must.

7. Musée du Petit Palais

And for culture lovers, one of the top must-sees in Avignon is the Musée du Petit Palais, which holds an impressive collection of medieval and Renaissance art…. all housed of course, in a palace.

This former bishop’s palace, dating back to the 14th century, is located right next door to the Papal Palace, so you can easily visit both places in one go. One of the museum’s highlights is its impressive collection of Italian primitive paintings, which includes works from the early Renaissance period. Here, you can marvel at masterpieces by artists like Botticelli and Carpaccio.

In addition to paintings, the Musée du Petit Palais features a selection of exquisite sculptures. Among them, you’ll find pieces by celebrated sculptors like Jean de Cambrai and Claus Sluter.

The museum is open every day except Tuesday, from 10am to 1pm and then from 2pm to 6pm. Best of all, it’s completely free to visit!

8. Musée Calvet

Another cultural gem to consider is Musée Calvet, where you’ll find a diverse collection of art, archaeology, and decorative arts housed in an elegant 18th-century mansion.

Named after Esprit Calvet, a local doctor and collector who donated his extensive collection to the city, this museum has something for everyone. As you wander through the galleries, you’ll find stunning paintings from the Renaissance to the 20th century, an incredible assortment of sculptures, an array of decorative arts and even a collection of archaeological finds.

Just like the Musée du Petit Palais, the Calvet Museum is open every day except Tuesday from 10am until 6pm (it closes for an hour between 1-2pm) and free to visit.

9. Musée Angladon

Just in case you hadn’t quite got your fill of impressive art, there’s also the Musée Angladon; another delightful museum that’s also housed in a charming 18th-century townhouse!

Founded by the descendants of the Parisian art collectors Jean and Paulette Angladon-Dubrujeaud, who donated their remarkable collection to the city, this intimate museum offers a unique glimpse into the world of fine arts, featuring works by some of the most renowned artists in history.

Here you can ogle paintings by some of the biggest names in art history, including Van Gogh, Picasso, Degas and Monet. In addition to paintings, the Musée Angladon boasts a fine selection of furniture, decorative arts, and Asian art. Highlights include some beautifully crafted furniture pieces from the Louis XV and Louis XVI periods, as well as exquisite Chinese and Japanese ceramics.

Musée Angladon is open Tuesday to Sunday from 1pm to 6pm and this one does actually cost money, about €8 for adults but there are concession prices. You can find more info here.

10. Collection Lambert

Of course, there’s a little something for contemporary art lovers too – the famous Collection Lambert.

Established by art dealer Yvon Lambert, the museum is housed in two elegant 18th-century mansions, providing a stunning backdrop for its cutting-edge exhibits. The collection is a vibrant celebration of contemporary art, featuring works from the 1960s to the present day, many of which are by major contemporary artists.

As you wander through the museum, you’ll encounter pieces by renowned names such as Jean-Michel Basquiat and Cy Twombly. The museum also features striking installations and sculptures by artists like Sol LeWitt and Donald Judd, pioneers of Minimalism.

In addition to these modern masterpieces, the Collection Lambert also hosts temporary exhibitions that continually refresh the museum’s offerings. Opening hours vary slightly throughout the year, so check the website for more information before your visit.

11. Rue des Teinturiers

Another unique thing to do in Avignon is a stroll along Rue des Teinturiers, a picturesque canal-side street dotted with water wheels, charming cafes, and historic buildings – a hidden gem offering a glimpse of Avignon’s past.

Once upon a time, this would have been the heart of Avignon’s textile industry, as the Sorgue River provided the necessary water supply for the dyers and weavers who set up their workshops along the street. Back then, this street would have been bustling with activity as craftsmen dyed fabrics in vibrant colors, which were sold throughout France and beyond.

These days, there’s not much to do here besides enjoy the vibe and views, but it’s probably one of the prettiest corners of Avignon to explore, so be sure to stop by.

12. Explore Avignon’s Street Art

Now, street art isn’t often what comes to mind when people think of Avignon, but there are nonetheless several hidden murals and colourful bits of graffiti that add a contemporary flair to the city’s historic streets.

Some highlights include…

• Window murals: There are many bricked up windows on buildings in Avignon, which were created to sidestep a French window tax from around 1798. Today, many of these windows have been transformed into very cool murals by the artist collective Pochy and Durand, often referencing famous productions from the Avignon Theatre Festival. One of the best streets to see these window murals is Rue Corneille and there are also some on the Rue des Teinturiers. Otherwise, just keep your eyes peeled as you wander around the city to spot more!
• MifaMosa: Along with paintings, another well-known street artist in the area is known as MifaMosa and he creates cute little mosaic pieces, usually next to street signs. Some of the notable pieces you can find in Avignon include a magpie on the Place Pie and a clock on Place de L’Horloge (which is next to Rue Corneille).
• Legal art wall: There’s also a legal art wall in a car park in Avignon (a bit outside the city centre) which has regularly changing murals to check out. It’s marked as Italien Parking on Google Maps.

13. Browse Avignon’s many boutiques

Of course, while you’re seeking out street art (or even if you’re not) Avignon is a wonderful spot for some shopping, whether you actually spend any money or prefer to just window shop!

The city centre is packed with charming boutiques, antique shops and often markets, but some highlights include:

• Beaucoup Store: There are actually two different stores on the same street, one for fashion and one for lifestyle – both packed with gorgeous items. Perfect for gifts or just some new clothes.
• Aline Géhant: Chocoholics will love this fancy chocolatier in Avignon, with special flavours like Provencal lavender ganache with thyme and lots of gorgeous gift boxes.
• Le Château du Bois: One of the best places to get lavender products from Provence, there’s also an educational/discovery area inside the shop if you want to learn more about the lavender industry in the region.
• L’Occitane en Provence: I mean, you’re literally IN Provence so it would be almost rude not to visit this iconic Provencal beauty brand’s shop while you’re in Avignon!

14. Get lost a little and explore

Cliché of clichés, one of the best ways to explore Avignon is to honestly just let yourself get lost within its walls.

With the city’s compact size, you’re never too far from the main sights, but there’s something undeniably charming about finding its quieter back streets… so don’t forget to schedule a little wistful wandering time.

15. Chartreuse de Villeneuve-lès-Avignon

Have a bit of extra time? If you don’t mind exploring beyond Avignon’s historical core, you can venture across the Rhône to visit the Chartreuse de Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, a former Carthusian monastery with tranquil cloisters and lush gardens.

The monastery (founded in 1356 by Pope Innocent VI) is a sprawling complex with beautifully preserved buildings and courtyards. One of the highlights is the Grand Cloister, a vast open space surrounded by arcaded walkways and ancient trees, perfect for a quiet stroll or contemplation. Art lovers will be delighted by the numerous frescoes and religious artworks that adorn the walls of the monastery.

The Chartreuse de Villeneuve-lès-Avignon is also a cultural hub, hosting various events, exhibitions, and artist residencies throughout the year. It’s located about a 15-minute drive from the Papal Palace, but if you don’t have a car you can also catch TCRA bus no5 Limbert/Villeneuve-Cigalières from Porte Limbert.

You also need to book timeslots to visit and tickets cost €8 for adults (with discounts available). Find out all the opening times info and book your tickets on the website here.

16. Attend a festival

Avignon’s cultural calendar is filled with various festivals year-round, so if you have more time to spend in the city, be sure to look into whether any of these festivals align with your visit!

• Summer: The most famous of Avignon festivals is, of course, Festival d’Avignon – one of the oldest and most famous theatre festivals in the world! Visit the city between the end of June and end of July to see all sorts of theatre performances. Other summer festivals include the Avignon Jazz Festival, the European Music Festival and a contemporary music festival called Resonance.
• Fall: As the leaves change color you can experience Avignon’s annual haying fair, a fall organ (music not body parts) festival, a science festival and even a tattoo festival.
• Winter: Warm up your winter with a comics festival, a massive horse fair complete with performances and the Avignon Geek Festival in February!
• Spring: At the end of February/beginning of March there’s a contemporary dance festival, as well as other spring festivals including a poetry festival, a film festival, a festival all about the paranormal and a festival for travel lovers.

Find out more information about all of Avignon’s festivals here.

17. Adventure onwards around Provence

Finally, as the gateway to Provence, one of the best things to do after you’ve enjoyed all that Avignon has to offer is to simply visit other beautiful places in the region!

Luckily, there are loads of them.

Here are some destinations to potentially explore, along with tours (for ease) that can bring you there:

• Lavender fields: Probably the most famous scene that Provence has to offer – usually in full bloom around late June/early July. Book a tour here
• Luberon: A charming area dotted with adorable hillside villages. Book a tour here
• Wineries: The Châteauneuf du Pape region is packed with excellent wineries for tastings. Book a tour here
• Camargue: A wild region famous for its white horses as well as bulls and birds. Book a tour here

Did I miss any of your favourite things to do in Avignon?

Let me know in the comments so I can add more of the best Avignon activities to the list. Happy and safe travels! 🙂