One day to discover Avignon and Villeneuve-lès-Avignon

Right in the heart of the beautiful Provencal region lies the city of Avignon, small in size, but great with its majestic heritage, vibrant cultural life and beauty. A day may be enough to discover the essentials of Avignon, but in this case we advise you to organize yourself well beforehand. Avignon is a city that invites you to stroll, to stroll through its medieval streets, we like to take our time there, without forgetting to stop in certain specific places ...

The Pope Palace

The Palais des Papes is Avignon's greatest historical treasure and is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in 1335, it served as both a fortress and a residence for the popes. You should know that at that time Avignon was the capital of Christendom! The Palace of the Popes still stands hundreds of years later on the Rocher des Doms, overlooking the city it watches over.
25 rooms are open to the public, some once hosted feasts or ceremonies, others were the private apartments of former popes. The terrace is worth the detour, because you can discover one of the most beautiful panoramas over Avignon and the Rhône. The visit is as enjoyable for parents as it is for children, in particular thanks to the interactive virtual reality visit offered on a tablet.

The old town and its ramparts

The city center of Avignon is entirely surrounded by incredibly well preserved ramparts! They are a striking testimony of France in the Middle Ages where the need to protect oneself was at the heart of concerns. When you walk in the old town, you have the impression of going back in time and going back several centuries ago ... The alleys, the calades, the squares lined with terraces follow one another to create a village atmosphere where there is no doubt that life is sweet. Shopping enthusiasts will also find what they are looking for, whether by strolling through the Halles market or entering an original shop (sale of olive oil, lavender, chocolate, artists' collectives, etc.) nothing to envy of the big global brands.

A ride on the Rhône

The best way to discover Avignon in one day is to explore the city by walking. However, you have the option of boarding a river shuttle free of charge that will take you across the Rhône to explore the Ile de la Barthelasse. It is a peaceful place, ideal for taking beautiful walks, taking pictures of Avignon and its famous bridge, or for having lunch in a unique setting by the water.

The Chartreuse of Villeneuve-lès-Avignon

The surroundings of Avignon also deserve your attention! A former 14th-century monastery, the Chartreuse is today a cultural center dedicated to hosting artists in residence and presenting shows during the famous Avignon Festival. Passionate guides will be happy to tell you the story of this remarkable heritage site. Depending on the season, you can also take a gourmet break in a restaurant, enjoy exhibitions, sound installations or an outdoor reading ...

Take to the heights at Fort Saint-André in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon

Fort Saint-André is a walled enclosure established on Mount Andaon which offers a superb 360 ° view of the entire city of Avignon and particularly on the Palais des Papes, but also of Mont Ventoux. The Fort housed a court of justice and a prison which still retains graffiti of its former 18th and 19th century inmates. You can delve into its past by opting for a self-guided tour, a one-hour guided tour or a three-hour conference tour. Temporary exhibitions sometimes come to animate this historic place and produce an astonishing contrast between our contemporary world and that of past centuries. If you still have some time left, we recommend that you also explore the Abbey and its magnificent gardens.

Would you like to take the time to discover Avignon and Villeneuve-lès-Avignon? All of our holiday villa rentals with swimming pool are located not far from these two towns in the heart of bucolic Provence at the foot of Mont Ventoux.