Holiday in Avignon

What makes Avignon special as a destination?

Avignon, the "City of the Popes," was the seat of the papacy for seven decades in the 14th century and has preserved a monumental heritage from this glorious era. The Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in the world, majestically overlooks the old town and, along with the famous bridge Saint-Bénézet ("Sur le Pont d’Avignon"), is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The completely preserved medieval city wall encloses a vibrant old town with shady squares, street cafés, and elegant townhouses from the 17th and 18th centuries. The Place de l’Horloge is the pulsating center, while the narrow streets of Rue des Teinturiers, with their waterwheels and plane trees, exude a romantic atmosphere. The Rocher des Doms, the rock above the papal palace, offers a magnificent view over the Rhône and Mont Ventoux. Every July, the Festival d’Avignon transforms the city into the largest theater stage in the world: Over 1,500 performances at hundreds of venues make the festival, founded in 1947 by Jean Vilar, the most significant theater festival in Europe. Avignon is also an ideal starting point for excursions into Provence — the Pont du Gard (30 minutes), the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape (15 minutes), and the lavender fields of Luberon are in close proximity. The Provençal cuisine with Ratatouille, Tapenade, and Rosé wines rounds off the experience.