Often called the ‘City of Popes’, Avignon is a fascinating city in the heart of Provence, France. The city is world-renowned for its rich historical heritage, vibrant culture and central role in papal history. Every year, thousands of visitors come to explore its iconic monuments, take part in its famous theater festival in July and soak up the unique atmosphere of its medieval streets. This article takes you on a discovery tour of Avignon’s must-sees, close to your holiday home in Entraigues sur la Sorgue.
The Pont d’Avignon: dancing on the famous bridge
The Pont d’Avignon, officially called Pont Saint-Bénézet, is one of Avignon’s most famous monuments. Built in the 12th century, this emblematic bridge once spanned the Rhone River for 900 meters, but today only four of the original twenty-two arches remain. The bridge is world-famous thanks to the famous children’s song ‘Sur le pont d’Avignon – on y danse on y danse’. A visit to Avignon is not complete without a walk across the remains of this historic bridge, which offers breathtaking views over the river and the city.
The Palais des Papes : An impressive fortress
The Palais des Papes, an unforgettable landmark in Avignon, is one of the largest Gothic buildings in Europe. Built in the 14th century, it served as the residence of several popes and today is an impressive testament to medieval history. The palace is open to the public and offers guided tours of its beautiful rooms, chapels and gardens. Every year, the palace hosts exhibitions and cultural events, which add a contemporary dimension to this historic site.
The Avignon Festival: a major cultural event
Founded in 1947 by Jean Vilar, the Festival d’Avignon is one of the most important theater festivals in the world. Every summer, the city turns into a gigantic stage where hundreds of performances are presented, ranging from theater and dance to street performances and film. Attracting artists and spectators from all over the world, the festival turns tourism in Avignon into an unforgettable cultural experience. Visit the Avignon Festival and experience the artistic creativity and cultural vibrancy of the city of Avignon.
Historical monuments and places of interest
Avignon is bursting with historical monuments and sights. Walking through the city, you will certainly notice the imposing ramparts surrounding the city built in the 14th century to protect Avignon from invasions. These well-preserved fortifications are an impressive testament to medieval architecture and offer a fascinating insight into the city’s history.
One sight not to be missed is the Notre-Dame des Doms cathedral, located next to the Palais des Papes, a remarkable 12th-century religious edifice. It offers panoramic views of the city from its forecourt, allowing visitors to admire the beautiful city of Avignon from a different angle. A stone’s throw away is the Rocher des Doms, a public garden on a hill, another not-to-be-missed spot for a peaceful stroll with spectacular views over the Rhone and the surrounding area.
As you stroll through Avignon’s narrow streets, take time to explore rue de la république and square Agricol Perdiguier, not to mention rue des Teinturiers, a charming cobbled street lined with plane trees and criss-crossed by a canal, which used to be home to many dyeing workshops (powered by water mills). This picturesque street is ideal for a quiet stroll away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
The Musée du Petit Palais is another Avignon gem, housing an impressive collection of Italian and Provençal paintings and sculptures from the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Housed in a 14th-century episcopal palace, the museum offers a fascinating journey through art and history.For those looking to soak up the city’s lively atmosphere, the Place de l’Horloge is Avignon’s beating heart. Lined with cafés, restaurants and theaters, this square is the perfect place to sit and watch local life. From here, stroll through the pedestrianized shopping streets until you reach Place Pie, another popular spot famous for its Halles, where you can sample local produce and enjoy the characteristic atmosphere of this covered market. Outside the festival period, the covered market Halles d’Avignon is open every day except Monday, from 6.30am to 1.30pm. During the festival, the market is open every day from 6am to 2pm.
Our holiday rental with pool in Entraigues
If you are looking for a holiday home near Avignon, our Moulin de Souchières in Entraigues is the perfect place. Our charming holiday home has all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including a large garden with a private pool to relax in after a day’s outing, a shaded terrace where you can barbecue and a covered children’s play area.
Entraigues is strategically located just a few kilometers from Avignon, making it easy to reach the city’s main tourist attractions. Whether you want to visit the Pont d’Avignon or the Palais des Papes, take part in the Avignon Festival or explore the historical monuments of Avignon, our holiday home in Entraigues offers you an ideal base.
Moreover, Entraigues is surrounded by picturesque Provençal villages, perfect for day trips. After your day trip, you can enjoy the peace of the Provençal countryside and relax by the pool in your holiday home near Avignon. Our Moulin de Souchières holiday home is a central place for a wonderful holiday in Provence, whether you go on holiday with family, friends or couples.
Personal tips from Anca & Philippe
Avignon is a destination that combines history, culture and Provençal charm. A visit to the Palais des Papes is fun and interactive thanks to the histopad.
Your children will be delighted to use the histopad to see many of the rooms in the Palais (now empty) decorated as they were in the 14th century, and to open the secret hiding places in a vault to liven up the visit!
Don’t forget to climb to the top of the palace for stunning views over Avignon and the Pont d’Avignon.
By choosing the right holiday home in Provence, such as our holiday home with a private pool in Entraigues, you can make the most of your holiday and discover all that this exceptional region has to offer.
Le Moulin de Souchières, your holiday home near Avignon, will give you an unforgettable experience in the heart of Provence.
See you soon!
Anca & Philippe