Ah, the City of the Popes! Certainly one of the most beautiful cities in the south of France, nestled in the heart of the Vaucluse region. The famous "Pont d'Avignon" from the song, as well as the Avignon Festival, have made its reputation, as has the Palais des Papes, famous for having housed numerous pontiffs. Magnificent in any season, the city is a mix of exciting sightseeing and strolling. Discover with Petit Futé the best things to do in Avignon over a weekend.
Day 1: What to do in Avignon over the weekend? Palais des Papes and religious buildings
As soon as you cross the ramparts, you're in the heart of a city rich in history. With its historic past and southern French charm, Avignon is a great place to stroll!
Morning: Popes' Palace and Notre-Dame des Doms Cathedral
Your first stop is the Palace of the Popesone of Avignon's must-see attractions. The residence of the popes in the 14th century, this UNESCO-listed building is the largest Gothic palace in the world. During your visit, you'll admire splendid rooms and frescoes by Matteo Giovannetti.
After this 1-hour visit, discover the Petit Palais museum right next door to the Palais des Papes. Open since 1976, it exhibits fine collections of medieval Italian and Provençal paintings.
Good to know admission to the Petit Palais, located in the former archbishop's palace, is free!
Stay a little longer to discover the Cathedral of Notre-Dame des Doms, also next door to the Palais des Papes. Built in the 12th century, it is a shining example of Provençal Romanesque architecture. From its gilded organ to its stained glass windows and the golden Virgin crowning its bell tower, it's full of splendors to be admired.
Petit Futé Tip: there are many ways to visit the Palais des Papes and other must-see sites for less. For example, you can enjoy a guided walking tour of Avignon's historic center, including entrance to the Palais des Papesand a glass of Côtes du Rhône wine by booking here.
Afternoon: Basilique Saint-Pierre, rue des Teinturiers and collection Lambert in Avignon
To book: Book a guided walking tour of Avignon's historic center here. Wander through hidden alleyways and discover the city's rich history.
Lovers of religious buildings can start the first afternoon of this weekend in Avignon at Basilique Saint-Pierre, located (also!) near the Palais des Papes. From there, head for the rue des Teinturiersa famous street in Avignon. Lined with plane trees, this cobbled street, as bucolic as it is authentic, was once the nerve center of the city's textile industry.
Finally, the day ends at the Collection Lambert, a contemporary art gallery housed in two 18th-century townhouses. The stage is set! Here, you can admire over 2,000 works from the 1960s to the present day. Not to be missed!
Read the article: Avignon, theatrical City of the Popes
Day 2: What can you do in Avignon over a weekend? Pont Saint-Bénezet, Rocher des Doms and Musée Calvet
The song has been playing in your head since you arrived, so go ahead: head for the Pont d'Avignon, whose real name is "Pont Saint-Bénezet".
Morning: Pont d'Avignon: above... and below!
This second morning begins with a visit to the Pont Saint-Bénezetthe famous "Pont d'Avignon" from the children's nursery rhyme. Built in the 12th century, this emblematic Avignon bridge is still a UNESCO World Heritage site, although it is incomplete due to damage sustained over the centuries. You'll have to pay to cross it, but you'll have a breathtaking view of the ramparts, the Palais des Papes and the Petit Palais.
What about discovering the Pont d'Avignon from below? Just a hundred meters from the bridge, a canoe rental company offers a range of options, some of which are ideal for impatient young children. You can navigate the Rhône at your own pace, passing under the bridge as often as you like. An original and refreshing experience for the whole family!
Did you know? In the past, the Pont Saint-Bénezet facilitated trade between Avignon and the Gard region.
Afternoon: Rocher des Doms and Musée Calvet
In the afternoon, we return to terra firma for a walk around Rocher des Doms. This historic site, which dates back to prehistoric times, offers spectacular views from the Jardin des Domsof Villeneuve-lez-Avignon and the Rhône valley. Don't forget your cameras! The garden hides an ancient water reservoir, and is even home to works such as the Venus aux Hirondelles. The Rocher des Doms is also a great place for children to relax, thanks to its play areas. The ducks and peacocks strolling around the lake are sure to keep them entertained!
Good to know: in summer, a free river shuttle takes you across the Rhône to Barthelasse Island.
Not tempted right away? We'll save that visit for later! Instead, stick around for a visit to the Musée Calvet, housed in the Hôtel de Villeneuve-Martignan, a lovely 18th-century building. Here you can admire a varied collection, ranging from painting to sculpture and decorative arts. Manet himself is on display, but that's not all! A superb collection of modern art, including drawings by Cézanne and Modigliani, completes the exhibition.
Day 3: What to do in Avignon over the weekend? Avignon Festival and surrounding area
If you're lucky enough to visit Avignon during its festival in July, take your third day to make the most of it! Visiting the City of the Popes at another time? Follow our guide to the best things to do around Avignon!
The article to read: Le Festival d'Avignon 2024: the guide for a first-time visitor
Morning: What to do in Avignon over the weekend? Visit the Île de la Barthelasse
On this last morning of the Festival, it's time for a little green. Head for île de la Barthelassea place as calm as it is unspoilt. Mainly dedicated to agriculture and protected from urbanization, it boasts many quiet spots to stroll along, such as the towpath. Perfect for a stroll or a jog for the more courageous, it offers a magnificent view of the Pont d'Avignon, the Rocher des Doms and the Palais des Papes. Stroll or picnic in the shade of the poplars: it's easy to lose track of time here.
The island is also home to a rich flora, classified as a Zone Naturelle d'Intérêt Ecologique, Faunistique et Floristique. With forests of white poplars, willows and elms, it's a veritable plant paradise. For birdwatchers, it's also an important nesting site for many birds, including sparrow hawks and herons.
Good to know: you can explore the island by canoe or kayak if you enjoy this type of activity. You'll be able to follow the Rhône River, enjoying the beautiful and varied scenery along the way.
There are plenty of cycle paths on Île de la Barthelasse, so it's also possible to organize a family outing by bike.
The perfect activity for gourmets: Would you like to discover the city while enjoying its rich gastronomy? Book this guided tour of the historic district, including wine tasting and local specialties.
Afternoon: Villeneuve-lez-Avignon, Rochefort-du-Gard
It's time to get out of Avignon for a while and visit the beautiful surrounding villages. Among them: Villeneuve-lez-Avignon and its not-to-be-missed Fort Saint-Andrébuilt on Mont Andaon. This superbly preserved 14th-century national monument offers a total immersion in French military history. From the Notre-Dame chapel to the sentry walk, it's a fascinating visit. The icing on the cake: from its summit, you can enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the Rhône valley, Avignon, Mont Ventoux and the Alpilles mountains!
Got a little time left? Then don't hesitate to visit Rochefort-du-Gard, a village rich in heritage. The Romanesque church of Le Castelas and the Sanctuaire de Notre-Dame de Grâce are prime examples! The latter, a former Benedictine priory dating from the 8th century, houses an exceptional chapel and a museum of ex-votos. We also invite you to follow the "sacro monte", a meditative Way of the Cross that leads you through one of the region's most beautiful sites.
Another option for this third day embark on a half-day driving tour from Avignon to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Enjoy a photo stop at the ruins of the pope's summer residence, then visit two wineries for delicious tastings by booking here.
The article to read: Top 11 hikes in Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur in 2025
Where to stay in Avignon for a weekend? Our selection of the best hotels
Avignon's city center offers comfortable rooms at great prices. Don't hesitate!
- The most comfortable
The modern decor of the Hotel Le Lavarin creates a cosy atmosphere for your stay. The swimming pool and garden are an added bonus! Book your room to book your room.
- The best location
Right next to the Palais des Papes and the festivities during the Avignon Festival, theHôtel de l'Horloge promises a wooded setting that's 100% welcoming. Book your room here.
- Family-friendly
TheAvignon Grand Hôtel 's larger rooms can accommodate large families. Ideally located, this beautiful hotel also boasts a swimming pool and a pleasant garden. Click here to book your room.
You'll also find below a list of the hottest things to do in Avignon:
Avignon may be the best-known city in the Vaucluse region, but the wonders of nature are everywhere. Discover the must-sees in Vaucluse to find your next visit, like the Ochres du Lubéron, a real favorite! In fact, the whole Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur region, with its national parks and picturesque villages, is waiting to be discovered.
