What to See in One Day in Avignon France

Avignon makes for a great home base to explore more of the off-the-beaten-path places in the south of France. Popular Avignon day trips include:

• Pont du Gard: an ancient Roman aqueduct designated a UNESCO World Heritage site is nothing short of impressive! Visit the museum to learn its fascinating history, and explore the surrounding park where you can hike, swim or go kayaking on the Gargon river
• Arles: a charming town famous for its Roman ruins, including the Amphitheatre and the Alyscamps. It’s where Vincent Van Gogh lived and was inspired to create some of his greatest works
• Nimes: an impressive Roman town home to some of the best-preserved Roman buildings in France, including the Arena, the Maison Carree, and the Tour Magne
• Rhone Valley: Avignon is located in the heart of the Rhone Valley, one of France’s premier wine regions. There are many vineyards and wineries nearby that offer tastings and tours

Inside is a maze of galleries, chambers and chapels. It’s a bit overwhelming actually. But of all the things to see in Avignon, this is it!

• 📍Pl. du Palais
• 🕤Open daily from 9 am to 8 pm
• Adult/child €12/10
• Avignon sightseeing tip: Be sure to include a tour of the Avignon Cathedral – a 12th-century cathedral, with the tombs of Avignon popes on your Avignon things to do list

Be sure to check out these two Avignon sights found in Old Town:

• Clock Square or Place de l’Horloge is a pretty square right in the heart of Old Town where a 14th-century historic clock tower sits
• Opéra Grand Avignon is an opera house that has been operating since the early 19th century. Even though spending one day in Avignon won’t be enough time to catch a live performance, you’ll still want to admire the architecture of this building

If you like to seek out those secret places that are a bit off the beaten path and under the radar from most travellers head to rue des Teinturiers.

This charming street is one of my favourite finds on the edge of Old Town. It’s a tree-lined street with a pretty canal on one side and buildings on the other.

Another hidden gem found on this street is Chapelle des Pénitents Gris, a small chapel featuring 17th-century frescos.

Spend your mid-afternoon visiting the most popular museum – the Little Palace Museum or Musée du Petit Palais. This museum features an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art from the 13th to 16th centuries, including works by Botticelli, Carpaccio, and Bellini.

• 📍Palais des Archevêques, Pl. du Palais
• 🕤Open daily except closed Tuesdays. November to February 10 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm, March to May and October 10 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 6 pm, June to September 10 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 7 pm
• €8

Or, pop into any of these FREE museums recommended to me by Avignon Tourism Board:

• Musée Calvet: this art museum is located in a historic mansion and features an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the 15th to the 20th century (📍65 Rue Joseph Vernet)
• Musée Requien: a natural history museum that features a collection of over 2,500 specimens of plants, insects, and fossils from the region. This is a popular museum for families. (📍67 Rue Joseph Vernet)
• Musée Lapidaire: This museum is dedicated to the ancient art of lapidary and showcases a collection of Roman, Greek, and Egyptian sculptures and inscriptions (📍27 Rue de la République)

Not only is this a beautiful park where the former popes used to stroll, but it also offers the city’s best view. Meander your way to the viewing platform for a panoramic view of the Rhone River.

It also is the most scenic way to get to the last thing to see in Avignon.

Fun fact: most have heard about Pont d’Avignon from the popular children’s song “Sur le pont d’Avignon”. Growing up in Canada, this was a song taught to every French class in school.

• 📍 Rhone River
• 🕤 Open daily: January 10 am to 5 pm, February 10 am to 6 pm, March to October 9 am to 7 pm, November to December 10 am to 5 pm
• €5
• Insider’s tip: there is a walking path along the Rhone River where you can take a photo of this Avignon bridge if you want to save time and the entry cost

Visiting Avignon, you’ll be treated to its vibrant food and drink scene, with many excellent restaurants and cafes to choose from. Here are a few suggestions, and if you are staying nearby like I did you might be tempted to return to try more on this list:

1. La Mirande: This Michelin-starred restaurant is located in a beautiful 18th-century mansion and features a gourmet menu that changes with the seasons. The setting is elegant and refined, and the food is a true culinary experience.
2. L’Agape: This cozy restaurant is tucked away in the heart of the old town and features a menu of creative, modern French cuisine. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming.
3. L’Epicerie: This charming cafe is located in the old town and features a menu of fresh, simple dishes made with local ingredients. It’s a great place to stop for a light lunch or a coffee and a pastry.
4. La Cuisine du Dimanche: This casual restaurant is located just outside the old town and features a rotating menu of home-style French cooking. The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back, and the food is hearty and delicious.
5. Le Goût du Jour: This Michelin-starred restaurant focuses on simplicity. Both the plating of food and ingredients mirror the same ambience in the all-white, modern decor. Let the food stand on its own.

Whether you’re looking for gourmet cuisine or simple, home-style cooking, there’s something for everyone in Avignon.