Avignon Town
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Avignon - by MoreToTheShell from Pixabay





Description
Avignon is situated in the South of France and best known as the residence of seven successive Popes during the Avignon Papacy (1309-1377). It was under papal control until 1791 and the French Revolution. The historical center of the town is on the southern bank of the Rhone river and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It includes famous monuments such as the Palais des Papes, the Pont Saint-Bénézet (a.k.a. Pont d'Avignon), the cathedral and the medieval defensive walls. Other touristic highlights include the Hôtel des Monnaies (it was the papal mint), the Calvet Museum and the Abbey of Saint-Ruf.
Access & Transport
Avignon is 45km northeast of Nîmes (A9/N100), 100km northwest of Marseille on the A7 and 220km south of Lyon on the A7. There are also trains to those cities but the High-Speed train (TGV) station is 4km from the historic center of town.
Instructions & Recommendations
The Palais des Papes and Pont Saint-Bénézet have been reviewed separately and should be strong contenders for a visit when exploring Avignon.
Environmental & Social
The main activities in the city have a low carbon footprint. Tourism is a welcome injection of activity and revenues in the local economy and help preserve the town's architectural heritage.
Conclusion
Avignon is a worthy destination with a mix of top-tier sights, some culture and atmosphere. Food and wine are also a highlight of the town. The transport connectivity is good so it works quite well as a base to explore the surrounding region.
Key positive
A couple of stand-out attractions
Close to several other regional tourist attractions
Quality of regional food and cuisine
Key negative
None
Suitability
Mostly accessible for visitors with reduced mobility (notable exception being the Palais des Papes)
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h 15m
est. visit time:4h
Sunrise / early morningNo
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo