Avignon-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Place to Go: Palais des Papes (Pope’s Palace)
    • A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest Gothic palace complexes in Europe.
  • Activity: Guided Tour
    • Learn about the history of the palace and its significance as a major seat of Catholic power during the Middle Ages.
  • Where to Eat: La Fourchette (French cuisine) at 15 Rue de la Republique
    • Try their traditional Provençal dishes like ratatouille or bouillabaisse.
  • Where to Stay: Hotel Le Colbert (3-star hotel)
    • A charming hotel located in the heart of Avignon, within walking distance to the Palais des Papes and other major attractions.
  • Things to Know:
    • The city has a reputation for being quite crowded during peak season, so be prepared for large groups of tourists.
    • Be sure to explore the surrounding streets and alleys for unique shopping experiences and local cuisine.
  • Transportation: From Avignon TGV Station (high-speed train station), take a taxi or bus to your accommodations. Alternatively, walk from the train station to the city center (about 10-15 minutes).
  • Tips:
    • Try to visit early in the morning to avoid large crowds and heat.
    • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets.

Day 2: Avignon’s Historic Center

  • Place to Go: Les Halles (Medieval Market)
    • Explore this ancient market square, which now hosts various shops, cafes, and street performers.
  • Activity: Visit the nearby Saint-Benezet Bridge
    • A medieval bridge that spans the Rhône River, offering beautiful views of the surrounding area.
  • Where to Eat: Le Clos des Sens (French cuisine) at 9 Rue du Limonier
    • Enjoy their elegant take on classic dishes like foie gras or roasted duck breast.
  • Where to Stay: Same as Day 1 (Hotel Le Colbert)
  • Things to Know:
    • Be mindful of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas.
    • Don’t miss the evening street performers at Les Halles.
  • Transportation: Walking is recommended for exploring Avignon’s historic center. Alternatively, take a bus or taxi from your accommodations.
  • Tips:
    • Visit the market vendors to sample local delicacies and cheeses.
    • Be sure to visit the nearby Saint-Pierre Cathedral (free admission).

Day 3: Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wine Region

  • Place to Go: Château la Nerthe (wine estate)
    • A beautiful vineyard with stunning views of the surrounding countryside, offering wine tastings and tours.
  • Activity: Visit the nearby village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape
    • Explore this charming medieval village, famous for its red wines.
  • Where to Eat: Le Relais de la Bourgade (French cuisine) at 2 Place du Marché
    • Savor their wine-pairing dishes and enjoy the cozy atmosphere of this small restaurant.
  • Where to Stay: Same as Day 1 (Hotel Le Colbert)
  • Things to Know:
    • Wine tastings often involve tasting a range of wines, so pace yourself!
    • Don’t forget to explore the nearby village for its unique shops and architecture.
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bus from Avignon to Châteauneuf-du-Pape (about 30-40 minutes). Alternatively, drive there from your accommodations (parking available).
  • Tips:
    • Visit during the week if possible, as weekends can be busy with wine tourists.
    • Be prepared for some walking and uneven terrain.

Day 4: Villeneuve-lès-Avignon

  • Place to Go: Château d’Avignon (Cathedral of Villeneuve)
    • A stunning cathedral and former royal residence, now a museum with beautiful gardens.
  • Activity: Explore the charming town center
    • Visit the nearby shops, cafes, and historic buildings, including the 17th-century Saint-Martin church.
  • Where to Eat: La Table de Maman (French cuisine) at 15 Rue du Faubourg
    • Try their modern take on classic dishes like roasted lamb or vegetable tartines.
  • Where to Stay: Same as Day 1 (Hotel Le Colbert)
  • Things to Know:
    • Be sure to visit the nearby Rhône River for scenic views and boat tours.
    • Don’t miss the evening events at the château, such as concerts or outdoor movie screenings.
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bus from Avignon to Villeneuve-lès-Avignon (about 10-15 minutes). Alternatively, walk there from your accommodations.
  • Tips:
    • Visit during the week if possible, as weekends can be busy with tourists.
    • Be prepared for some walking and uneven terrain.

Day 5: Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

  • Place to Go: Les Baux Village (historic village)
    • Explore this picturesque medieval village perched on a hilltop, famous for its stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Activity: Visit the nearby Carrières de Lumières
    • Marvel at the breathtaking light show projected onto the limestone quarry walls.
  • Where to Eat: Le Petit Nice (French cuisine) at 1 Rue des Martyrs
    • Enjoy their elegant take on classic dishes like roasted chicken or vegetable soup.
  • Where to Stay: Same as Day 1 (Hotel Le Colbert)
  • Things to Know:
    • Don’t miss the stunning views of the surrounding countryside from the village’s many viewpoints.
    • Visit during the week if possible, as weekends can be busy with tourists.
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bus from Avignon to Les Baux Village (about 30-40 minutes). Alternatively, drive there from your accommodations (parking available).
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for some walking and uneven terrain.
    • Don’t forget to explore the nearby village for its unique shops and architecture.

Day 6: Departure

  • Place to Go: Avignon TGV Station (high-speed train station)
    • Catch your return high-speed train to Paris or other destinations in France.
  • Activity: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing
    • Explore the surrounding streets for unique shopping experiences and local cuisine.
  • Where to Eat: Same as Day 1 (La Fourchette) at 15 Rue de la Republique
  • Where to Stay: Same as Day 1 (Hotel Le Colbert)
  • Things to Know:
    • Be sure to leave some time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
    • Don’t forget to exchange your currency and check out of your accommodations before departing.
  • Transportation: Take a taxi from your accommodations to Avignon TGV Station. Alternatively, walk there (about 10-15 minutes).
  • Tips:
    • Visit early in the morning if possible, as crowds tend to be smaller then.
    • Don’t forget to pack everything and check out of your hotel before departing.