48 Hours in Avignon: History, Culture & Charm in the Heart of Provence

Written By Matthew Cogossi

Palais des Papes

Avignon is a magical blend of medieval charm, papal history, and Provençal ease. With its cobbled streets, sun-soaked squares, and dramatic architecture, it’s the perfect place to begin your southern France adventure—or enjoy a dreamy weekend escape. We spent two days in Avignon and used it as a base to visit the lavender fields in the area. Avignon is a great home base to start your own French Lavender road trip or to simply take in this beautiful city and explore its medieval streets and soak in its history. We especially enjoyed sitting out in the open squares with a coffee or glass of wine and taking in the old world charm of the city. Avignon is a city definitely worth exploring!

Why Visit Avignon?

Avignon has an energy all of its own. It’s walkable, welcoming, and bursting with history. The city’s skyline is crowned by the dramatic Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), and its charming old town is filled with art galleries, sunny cafés, hidden gardens, and markets.

Whether you're exploring its medieval ramparts, sipping wine riverside, or watching a street performance during the annual theater festival, Avignon delivers that quintessential southern France vibe: warm, lively, and unforgettable. Avignon also offers great day trips to other parts of Southern France, while also containing plenty of great restaurants and things to do.

A Brief History of Avignon

Avignon became the seat of the Catholic Church in the 14th century, when Pope Clement V moved the papacy from Rome to this Provençal city. For nearly 70 years, Avignon was the center of Western Christianity—an era that gave rise to the towering Palais des Papes, now one of the most important Gothic buildings in Europe.

After returning to French control post revolution, Avignon flourished as a cultural hub and remains one of France’s most atmospheric destinations today.

Top Things to Do in Avignon

  • Palais des Papes: Tour the massive palace and its panoramic rooftop terrace. If you do one thing in Avignon make it this one! The Papal history in Avignon is fascinating and seeing this amazing palace is worth a visit, even if you are not a history buff.

  • Pont d’Avignon (Pont Saint-Bénézet): Walk the historic half-bridge that even has a famous song written about it. This historic bridge is believed to be built starting in 1234. The Avignon Bridge has so much history and still (partially) spans the Rhone River. Today only 4 of the original 22 arches still remain, but this bridge truly shows the history of this important town.

  • Place de l’Horloge: The lively heart of the city, full of restaurants, cafés, and street performers. This is a great place to relax and grab lunch or dinner, or just to grab a coffee and enjoy the lively vibrancy of the city.

  • Les Halles Market: Covered Provençal market with food stalls and fresh local ingredients. This market is a great place to stock up on fresh produce and cheese, especially if you are staying in an AirBNB or VRBO and are looking to cook while visiting.

  • Rocher des Doms: Park with gardens and views over the Rhône River and Pont d’Avignon. This park is a great place to stroll, especially in the afternoon along the promenade. If you are looking for a relaxing place to enjoy nature within the city, this is a great place to visit.

  • Avignon Cathedral (Notre-Dame des Doms): 12th-century Romanesque cathedral next to the Palais des Papes.

  • Rue des Teinturiers: One of the prettiest streets in Avignon, lined with trees, water wheels, and boutiques. This is a great place to stroll and grab a coffee or beer.

  • Avignon Festival (July): France’s most famous performing arts festival right in the courtyard of the Palais des Papes, with over 1,000 performances.

Top Restaurants & Bars

  • La Fourchette: Elegant Provençal (French) cuisine in a cozy setting.

  • Le 46: Inventive Mediterranean and tapas dishes with a chic modern twist. Plus they have a great wine and champagne selection.

  • Le Violette: A lovely spot tucked inside a museum courtyard for lunch or afternoon coffee.

  • Carré du Palais Wine Bar: Extensive Rhône Valley wine list in a stunning historic building.

  • Baryum 56: Cool cocktail bar at really reasonable prices.

  • Le Café Tulipe: Charming coffee shop and brunch café with outdoor seating.

Crème brûlée

Hotel Recommendations

Favorite Day Tours from Avignon

Here are some top-rated day trips to book via Viator or GetYourGuide:

Lavender Fields near Aurel

Things to Know Before You Go

  • Language: French is spoken, but many locals speak English in tourist areas.

  • Currency: Euro (EUR)

  • Best Time to Visit: April to October. Lavender season peaks in July; the theatre festival takes place mid-July.

  • Getting There: Avignon has a TGV train station with direct connections to Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. You can also fly into Paris, Lyon, or Marseille.

  • Getting Around: The old town is walkable. Rent a car if you plan day trips to the countryside.

  • Be sure to download offline maps (we prefer Google maps!)

  • We recommend getting a local SIM card or buying an eSIM such as through Airalo (use code MATTHE6398 to get $3 off).

Skimmable 2-Day Itinerary for Avignon

Day 1

  • Morning: Walk along the castle ramparts and grab coffee at a café near Place de l’Horloge

  • Midday: Tour the Palais des Papes and climb to Rocher des Doms for panoramic views

  • Afternoon: Visit Avignon Cathedral, then stroll down Rue des Teinturiers

  • Evening: Dinner at La Fourchette or Le 46, followed by wine at Carré du Palais

Day 2

  • Morning: Shop and snack at Les Halles Market

  • Late morning: Walk to the Pont d’Avignon (Avignon Bridge)

  • Afternoon: Explore nearby museums or take a short day trip (wine tour, Roman ruins, or lavender fields)

  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Pollen (if you are looking for fine dining), Restaurant La Cour du Louvre (for more mid-priced options with a really cool art interior!) or grab drinks at a local wine bar

Avignon is a beautiful town to explore and surrounds you with medieval French vibes. Whether you're drawn by Avignon's papal past or its Provençal charm, these 48 hours will linger in your memory like the scent of lavender in the summer air. If you want to learn more about this area or are planning to take a road trip - see our French Lavender Fields road trip blog post. Happy Traveling!

Rocher des Doms:

Matthew Cogossi
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