If you’re looking for an amazing and diverse European vacation spot, look no further than Provence in southern France. Here you can explore the beautiful city of Avignon, as well as the stunning countryside of Vaucluse.
With plenty to see and do, plus a great food and wine culture, Provence is a must-visit destination.
Explore Avignon and Vaucluse in Provence
Avignon and Vaucluse are two of the most popular tourist destinations in Provence. Located in the southeast of France, they offer a rich history and culture, as well as plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
Avignon was once the capital of Christendom, and its vast Palais des Papes is one of the most impressive Gothic buildings in Europe. The city is also home to the world-famous Pont d’Avignon, a medieval stone bridge that spans the River Rhone. Visitors can take a boat ride along the river, or explore the many shops and cafes that line the streets.
Vaucluse is a picturesque region of vineyards, olive groves, and Roman ruins. The town of Orange is particularly worth a visit, with its well-preserved Roman amphitheater and Triumphal Arch. Active visitors can enjoy hiking and cycling in the nearby Luberon Regional Park.
Whether you’re interested in history or nature, Avignon and Vaucluse make for an enjoyable and educational holiday destination.
What To See In Avignon
Avignon is a beautiful city in southern France with plenty of historical landmarks and cultural attractions. The most famous site in Avignon is the Palais des Papes, a 14th-century palace that was once the home of the Pope.
Other notable landmarks include the Pont Saint-Benezet, a bridge spanning the Rhône River, and the Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms, a Gothic cathedral with stunning views of the city.
Avignon is also home to numerous museums and art galleries, as well as a lively theatre scene. And of course, no visit to Avignon would be complete without sampling some of the local cuisine, which includes dishes such as ratatouille and bouillabaisse.
With so much to see and do, Avignon is sure to please visitors of all ages.
What To See In Vaucluse
Vaucluse is a department in southeastern France. It is named after the Vaucluse spring which forms the Sorgues River. The motto of Vaucluse is “I am eternal”. The area of Vaucluse includes several well-known tourist destinations such as Avignon, Orange, and Aix-en-Provence.
Vaucluse is home to many historical landmarks. The Palace of the Popes in Avignon was once the residence of the Pope during the 14th century. The Pont du Gard is a 2000-year-old aqueduct that spans over 50 kilometers.
It is one of the best preserved Roman engineering feats in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Orange is home to two Roman landmarks: the Triumphal Arch and the theatre. The Triumphal Arch was built in honor of three emperors and is one of the best preserved Roman arches in Europe.
The theatre is one of the best preserved Roman theatres in existence and can still be used for performances today.
Aix-en-Provence was once the capital of Provence and is a university town with a lively student population. Its Old Town features many fountains and cultural landmarks such as Saint-Sauveur Cathedral.
There are also several museums worth visiting such as the Granet Museum which has an extensive collection of paintings by local artist Paul Cezanne.
Vaucluse is a beautiful department with much to see and do. its landscape, history, and culture make it a perfect destination for any tourist looking to experience everything that France has to offer.
How To Get Around
Avignon and the surrounding Vaucluse region offer visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the charm of Provence. The best way to explore Avignon is on foot, as the city is relatively small and pedestrian-friendly.
Start at Place de l’Horloge, the central square, and wander the narrow streets lined with shops and cafes. Be sure to visit Palais des Papes, the massive 14th-century palace that was once home to the popes of Avignon.
Just outside of the city, you can explore the ruins of the Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct bridge. Or take a day trip to one of the nearby villages, such as Gordes or Roussillon.
For breathtaking views, take a hike up to the top of Mont Ventoux. Whatever you do, make sure to savor the delicious food and wine of Provence – you’ll find that it’s unlike anything else in the world!
Where To Stay
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most impressive Roman engineering feats still in existence. Vaucluse is another popular tourist destination in Provence.
Whether you’re looking to explore Avignon’s rich history or relax in the idyllic countryside, there are plenty of great places to stay in Provence.
Here are just a few of our favorites:
Hôtel d’Europe
The Hôtel d’Europe is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Avignon. The hotel has been welcoming guests since 1799, and it offers an ideal base for exploring all that Avignon has to offer.
The rooms are spacious and elegantly appointed, and the hotel has its own restaurant where you can enjoy regional specialties like truffle risotto and baked lamb with rosemary.
Address: 12 Pl. Crillon, 84000 Avignon, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
La Maison sur la Sorgue
For something a bit more intimate, La Maison Sur la Sorgue is a charming bed and breakfast located in a 16th-century townhouse overlooking the river Sorgue.
The eight guest rooms are all decorated differently, but they all feature antique furniture and exposed stone walls. Breakfast is served in the dining room each morning, or you can enjoy it on the terrace when the weather permits.
Address: 6 Rue Rose Goudard, 84800 L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
Les Bories & Spa
Les Bories & Spa is a luxury hotel located just outside of Avignon in Le Barroux. Surrounded by lavender fields and vineyards, this hotel offers breathtaking views of Mont Ventoux and the Dentelles de Montmirail mountain range.
The rooms are spacious and elegant, and they offer all of the modern amenities you would expect from a five-star hotel. In addition to its rooms, Les Bories & Spa also has its own spa where you can enjoy treatments like massages and facials.
Address: Rte de Senanque, 84220 Gordes, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
Whether you’re looking for luxury or something more intimate, there’s sure to be somewhere that’s perfect for you in Avignon or Vaucluse. Bon, voyage!
What To Eat And Drink
Avignon and the Vaucluse region of France offer a wide variety of dining options, from Michelin-starred restaurants to more casual cafes.
Here are some of the best places to eat and drink in Avignon and the Vaucluse:
Le Bistro des Arts
This charming bistro is located in the heart of Avignon’s historic center. The menu features classic French dishes with a modern twist, and the wine list includes selections from across the country.
Address: 8 Pl. de l’Horloge, 84000 Avignon, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
Le Jardin des Domes
This Michelin-starred restaurant is set within a beautiful glass conservatory. The menu features seasonal ingredients from the Vaucluse region, and the wine list includes rare and vintage wines.
Address: 8 rue des Teinturiers, 84000, Avignon France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
La Maison du Tea
This atmospheric tea house is located in an old silk factory. The menu features a wide variety of teas, as well as sandwiches, salads, and pastries.
Address: 12 Pl. du change, 84000 Avignon, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
Le Petit Jardin
This intimate restaurant is hidden away in a courtyard off one of Avignon’s main streets. The menu offers creative takes on traditional Provencal dishes, and the wine list includes local wines from the Rhone Valley.
Address: 6 boulevard Limbert 84000 Avignon France
Tips For Your Trip
If you’re planning a trip to Avignon and Vaucluse, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First, Avignon is a pedestrian-friendly city, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Second, the city is home to many historical monuments, so it’s a good idea to purchase a guidebook or map before you go.
Third, Avignon is known for its excellent restaurants, so be sure to save room for meals. And finally, Vaucluse is home to many beautiful vineyards, so be sure to include a wine-tasting tour in your itinerary.
With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have an enjoyable and memorable trip to Avignon and Vaucluse.
In conclusion
Avignon and the Vaucluse region of France offer a wealth of things to see and do, from Michelin-starred restaurants to historical monuments. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful area, be sure to keep these tips in mind. You’re sure to have an enjoyable and memorable trip!
