AVIGNON
The city has existed for more than 2, 000 years, and is rightfully named a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nestled in Provence alongside the Rhône River, the city is built on Medieval undertones. Now known for its quaint architectural charm, Avignon is the gateway to the food and wine region of southeastern France.
Arriving
From Paris, the train from Gare Lyon Station took just under three hours to arrive at Avignon station, where you will need to arrange a car or jump in a taxi as the town is around a 10-15 minute drive. To really experience Provence, hiring a car can reap great benefits in travelling around to various vineyards and towns.
Alternatively, the Avignon-Caumont Airport is an international airport just a few kilometres from the city centre.
Things to Do
There can be a bit to cover given that Avignon, the city of Popes, has been on the map for more than 2, 000 years. Beyond its historical mark, it is the door to Provence, pinning the city as a cultural epicentre.
Two to three days allows enough time to see Avignon if you’re passing through to the next destination, and the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) is going to be on the list of things to do. A medieval palace, it served as a residence of the Popes during the 14th century near the historic Place des Corps Saints square in the city centre. As one of the largest Gothic architectural buildings in Europe, the Palace is listed as a World Heritage Site by Unesco, features a range of exhibitions, and makes for a fascinating historical visit centred around the 9 popes.
Afterward, take a walk along the Avignon City Walls and see the Saint-Bénézet Bridge, a bridge spanning the Rhône River, also known as the Pont d'Avignon. Musée Calvet is a museum of fine arts and archaeology worth a visit, as is the Gothic-style Avignon Cathedral.
For those visiting in July, The Festival d’Avignon is an annual arts festival held in the courtyard of Palais des Papes and other locations around the city. Beginning in 1947, picture various shows, exhibitions, films, and readings throughout the architectural backdrops of Avignon from global artists.
Extras: visit the Brotte Wine Museum with 5 wine tastings included, or experience the vineyards of Chateauneuf du Pape from Avignon.
Dining
For an unsuspecting dinner in a medieval courtyard, L’Essential ticked all the boxes for a quiet ambiance, incredible food, and a quintessential French evening. Like most small restaurants in the region, the menu centres around a food and wine pairing menu. Expect traditional indulgent fare such as ravioli with seasonal mushrooms, truffle oil, parsley shitake, and cream of Vermouth.
Innovative and intimate, Le Goût du Jour plays on modern French cuisine and was rightfully awarded a Michelin star. With a regularly rotating menu, dishes may include a filet of perch with butternut squash, Campari, and kiwi, to a citrus dessert with tarragon, and meringue.
Indulge in a chic feed on the outdoor terrace at Restaurant Maison de la Tour, located near Théâtre du Rempart. Using locally sourced produce, Chef Pascal Barnouin prepares seasonal dishes daily, where you can also participate in a cooking class on site to perfect your own French technique.
Bars
It is easy to walk the cobblestoned streets and find a quaint wine bar, and Tapas Rouge is one of those. A cellar and wine bar, pair a grand crus wine or champagne with a specialty cheese or fish to compliment.
For views over the palace and a vast range of Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée wines, Le Carré du Palais is the go-to spot to sample the best drops from the Rhône Valley. With an onsite sommelier, the bar rotates through monthly selections of 32 wines by the glass and 450 recommendations by the bottle.
Where to Stay
You’re in Provence. A stay with views over opulent gardens and an outdoor swimming pool for the summer months is going to be a non-negotiable!
With an approach of luxury and hospitality, Bastide De Bellegarde opened its doors in 2020 for a stay marked with elegance. Set on private property, the earthy tones mirror Avignon’s surroundings in the wine region of Provence. Choose from one of the many suites available, with a daily wine by the fireplace or on one of the pool loungers.
For a stay with just that little bit extra, La Mirande hosts its own cooking school to recreate the gastronomical experiences well after a visit to Avignon (we all love a macaroon on hand). Find artistic masterpieces dating back to the 18th century scattered around the hotel, with each of the 26 bedrooms individually decorated. Enjoy a meal on one of the two terraces nestled amongst the perfectly manicured gardens, from the Michelin Starred kitchen.
Set in the centre of Avignon, Hotel de Cambis is a contemporary and modern stay within a historical heritage. On Fridays, head downstairs to the Orsan wine bar for a tasting amongst the Côtes du Rhône after a day exploring the City of Popes.
Be sure to stay in one of the spacious apartments, offering views over the city centre of Avignon before popping out to one of the many restaurants.
Departing
From Avignon, I travelled south to Villefranche-sur-Mer via train which in total, was around 3 hours. Or, catch a flight to neighbouring Switzerland from Avignon airport!