Things to do in Avignon: Our Selection of Exceptional Experiences

Between its monumental historical heritage and the richness of the Provençal landscapes that surround it, the City of the Popes has plenty to offer you. Start with the essentials: Palais des Papes and Pont Avignon, but if you’re looking for a truly unique experience, trust Le Collectionist. In this guide, our experts will tell you what things to do in Provence and Avignon, for a luxury vacation off the beaten path.

things to do in Avignon: for art and history lovers

More than 700 years ago, the walls of Avignon housed the Catholic popes. Sufficed to say that the fascination over this Provençal city is nothing new, and strolling through the cobbled streets of the city centre will take you back in time. Avignon has kept the ambience of old stone and extraordinary architectural heritage which earned its historic centre the classification of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

So, where to start? What should you do in Avignon to explore its history? Here is a selection of experiences as exceptional as they are unmissable:

• Visit the Palais des Papes : This impressive gothic building, halfway between the fortress and the palace, was home to the Catholic popes in the 14th century. Today, it has become an essential visit for any stay in Avignon. For an original experience, explore the “dark side” of the palace, and be guided from room to room by the historic plots, theatrical twists and legends that animate the stone walls of the castle. Continue with a private tour of the rooftops, the Great Chapel and the majestic Conclave Hall, normally closed to the public.
  
  
• Fly Over Pont d’Avignon: Take off in a helicopter and discover Avignon from above. Fly over the historic centre and the stunning Pont d’Avignon. Free from crowds, your pilot will take you over the vineyards of Côtes-du-Rhône, outside the city walls. Ask him to extend your flight to Pont du Gard, about twenty kilometres away.
  
  

• Explore the Museums : Don’t know what to do in Avignon? Explore some of the city's many museums! From the chapels of Greek statues at the Lapidary Museum to the emblematic works of Cézanne and Van Gogh adorning the walls of the Angladon Museum, art lovers are sure to find what they are looking for. You can also visit the Natural History Museum of Avignon, which brings together a large number of plant and animal species in a magnificent mansion dating back to the 18th century.

things to do in avignon: with children

Avignon is the ideal destination for a family holiday. In addition to its many historical monuments, which offer guided tours or treasure hunts for children, Avignon is a sunny oasis in the heart of Provence. Take advantage of the nice weather to escape for a weekend, and discover the gentle rhythm of Provençal life with our selection of activities to do with the family in Avignon:

• Sailing on the Rhône: Discover the Pont d'Avignon in a different way, during a stroll along the Rhône. Rent canoes and follow the flow of the river. Not afraid to get wet? Try the giant paddle board! Standing on the board, paddle to the mythical Pont Saint-Bénezet. Back on dry land, explore the island of Barthelasse, the largest river island in France, and sit in the shade for a picnic with local produce from the market.
  
  
• Awaken the Senses: Ten minutes from the centre of Avignon, the Epicurium is a fun and unique place, halfway between a museum and a botanical garden! Awaken your senses in the orchard, greenhouse or vegetable garden, where dozens of varieties of fruits and vegetables grow. The Epicurium also regularly organizes meetings with local farmers, making it the perfect opportunity to educate young people about ecology and the importance of eating well!
  
  
• Kick Off Your Shoes at the Gates of the City: During your family stay in Avignon, unwind in an exceptional residence, available exclusively in Le Collectionist's catalogue. Mas du Rempart leans over the banks of the Rhône, a stone's throw from the historic centre. You can come back for lunch in the calm of the courtyard after a morning exploring the old town of Avignon. Continue with a few laps in the indoor swimming pool or read a good book while lounging in the sun. The real spirit of the Mas du Rempart is, of course, its colourful, artistic decoration, which will awaken the creativity of anyone who stays there.

things to do in avignon: for foodies

Speaking of eating well, Avignon has a very rich food scene! Whether the farmer's markets, the sun-drenched vineyards or simply the restaurants, this Provençal town is a paradise for food lovers. The question is not what to do in Avignon, but rather what to eat! Here is our selection of the best gastronomic experiences in Avignon:

• Taste the Regional Wine: When summer heats the streets of the historic centre, follow the example of the Popes and sojourn to the countryside. On the other side of the walls, a few kilometres from Avignon, the Provençal village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape is perched on a hill. From the top of the ruins of its castle, you can see the silhouette of the Palais des Papes looming in the distance. But it is not for the view, as sublime as it is, that one comes here. Châteauneuf-du-Pape is renowned for its unique, full-bodied wine. Open the doors to the cellar and taste this delicious drink, which draws its character from the limestone soils of the Provençal hills.
  
  
• Dine Under the Stars: After a day wandering the streets of Avignon or the surrounding vineyards, head to one of the city's many exceptional restaurants. Avignon has half a dozen gourmet or Michelin-starred restaurants to choose from, like the historic house: La Vieille Fontaine. In this elegant, Michelin-starred restaurant located a stone's throw from the Palais des Papes and Saint-Pierre Basilica, chef Pascal Auger revisits the great classics of southern cuisine such as monkfish tail or Mediterranean mussels. The adventurous type will opt for the surprise menu of chef Mathieu Desmarest, at the Pollen restaurant. 

Hopefully, you now know what things to do in Avignon to make your luxury holiday in Provence unforgettable. Explore all of our exceptional villa rentals in Avignon and choose your favourite! Contact our Tailors to organise personalised experiences for you and your loved ones.