Visit Avignon: monuments, culture and gastronomy in Provence
To visit Avignon is to immerse yourself in the history of a charming city in the heart of the Vaucluse region. Known asthe “ City of the Popes“, it is particularly appreciated for its UNESCO-listed heritage, its Provencal atmosphere and its renowned festival.
But what is there to do in Avignon? Discover the Palais des Papes, walk on the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet, stroll through its lively streets… Between culture, gastronomy and walks, a stay in Avignon from a campsite in the Vaucluse is the ideal way to enjoy Provence to the full!

What you need to know about Avignon
- Avignon boasts a remarkable historical heritage, with the Palais des Papes, the Pont Saint-Bénézet and its medieval ramparts.
- This city offers a dynamic cultural life thanks to the Festival d’Avignon, as well as theaters and exhibitions throughout the year.
- Take a stroll through the historic center, its lively little streets and along the banks of the Rhône to discover its unique atmosphere.
- Savor Provencal gastronomy through markets, Côtes-du-Rhône wines, olive oil and Vaucluse culinary specialties.
- A stay at Le Garrigon campsite is an ideal base for visiting Avignon and the surrounding area.

The history of Avignon
Visiting Avignon also means understanding its past. The city took off in the Middle Ages thanks to its strategic position on the Rhône. In the XIVᵉ century, the City of the Popes was home to the papacy for almost 70 years. Nine popes succeeded each other, making it an influential religious capital. The Palais des Papes, still standing today, is its most visible legacy.
After the departure of the popes, Avignon retained an important role in the region. In 1791, it became part of France, having previously belonged to the Papal States. Its old town center and perfectly preserved ramparts are highly representative of this eventful history.
Discovering thehistory of Avignon will give meaning to your visit and help you better appreciate every monument in this city of Provence.
Must-see monuments in Avignon
When you’re wondering what to visit in Avignon, there are a few places you just can’t miss:
- The Palais des Papes: built in the XIVᵉ century, the Palais des Papes was at once the residence of the popes, a fortress and an administrative center. Today, it’s one of Europe’s largest Gothic buildings, open to visitors with classic or interactive tours.
- Pont Saint-Bénézet: better known as the Pont d’Avignon, it dates back to the XIIᵉ century. Only four arches remain, but its legend and the song that made it famous make it an iconic monument! Don’t forget to take a family photo: on the Pont d’Avignon, on y danse, on y danse!
- The ramparts: over 4 km long, they still encircle Avignon’s historic center. Well-preserved, they are a reminder of the city’s defensive role and make for a very pleasant stroll.
- The Petit Palais museum and Notre-Dame-des-Doms cathedral: located close to the Palais des Papes, they are the perfect complement to a day’s visit to the Cité des Papes. The former features collections of Italian and Provençal paintings, while the cathedral overlooks Avignon from its rock.
These monuments sum up the best sites to see in Avignon during a stay or a weekend!

Avignon, a cultural capital of Provence
It’s impossible to visit Avignon without mentioning its cultural life. Every summer, Avignon plays host to the Festival d’Avignon, created in 1947 by Jean Vilar. Today, this event is one of the world’s biggest theater and performing arts festivals. For several weeks, Avignon is transformed into an open-air stage with two complementary programs: the IN, in historic venues such as the Cour d’Honneur of the Palais des Papes, and the OFF, which brings together hundreds of companies throughout the city of Avignon.
But culture in Avignon isn’t limited to July. Throughout the year, theOpéra Grand Avignon, local theaters and numerous galleries offer concerts, exhibitions and contemporary plays.
Whether it’s a show, an exhibition or simply theatmosphere of the streets in summer, Avignon fully deserves its title as the cultural capital of Provence!
Avignon and its Provencal gastronomy
In addition to its monuments, a visit to Avignon also means a taste of Provencal cuisine.
Here are just a few to try:
- Aïoli: a traditional Provencal dish of vegetables, fish and garlic sauce.
- Anchoïade: a delicious paste made with anchovies, olive oil and capers.
- Tapenade: a typical local condiment made from olives, anchovies and capers.
- Daube avignonnaise: meat stew simmered in wine and herbs.
- La navette: a small dry cookie flavored with aniseed or orange blossom.
- Pistou soup: a soup rich in seasonal vegetables, with basil and olive oil.
As you can see, a visit to Avignon is all about immersing yourself in its history, enjoying its culture and savoring its Provencal gastronomy. For a successful stay, choose Le Garrigon campsite in the Vaucluse: a perfect starting point for discovering the City of the Popes and Provence in all simplicity!
