Avignon: what to do, what to see...

More than just its famous Saint Bénezet Bridge and Palais des Papes, the city of Avignon sits at the very heart of Provence and epitomises this region’s art de vivre. The International Theatre Festival brings the summer to life in the medieval city, which is a pleasure to explore at any time on foot or with a cruise along the Rhone, whilst Provençale wines and produce are best enjoyed at the local restaurants and markets.

WHAT TO SEE

• Palais des Papes, residence of the popes in the 14th Century
• The mansions, cardinal houses and typical streets of the old town
• The Saint Bénezet bridge viewed from Doms Gardens or Barthelasse Island
• The Lambert contemporary art collection housed in two 18th Century mansions
• Angladon Museum with masterpieces by Van Gogh, Degas, Sisley, Picasso

WHAT TO DO

• Meet the locals at "Les Halles" covered market
• Shop at "Les Fabricateurs" local textile, home decor, jewels, galleries and designers stores
• Stroll on Barthelasse Island, the biggest river island on the Rhône
• Have a glass of wine at brand new Carré du Palais bistro and wine bar
• The July theatre festival or one of the other festivals happening all year round

WHAT TO TASTE

• Côtes du Rhônes wine, Avignon is its capital
• Provençal cuisine in one of the many restaurants listed in the Michelin or Gault & Millau guide
• Papalines chocolates with pink sugar and oregano liqueur
• Provençal fruits and vegetables at local restaurants or from the market
• Chocolates by Aline Géhant made with thyme or lavender

WHAT TO BRING BACK

• Côtes du Rhône wines, available in shops, at Les Halles or from a winery
• Lavender products like perfume, soaps, pillows or fine lavender
• Olive oil from a mill, such as Maison Bronzini in Villeneuve les Avignon
• A unique piece of local handicraft from Les Fabricateurs
• Liqueurs from Manguin Distillery on Barthelasse island

Getting to Avignon