Avignon and its Unesco heritage: Palace of the Popes
There’s much more to Avignon than its bridge and famous song. Much of this city in Provence is on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Avignon, known as the City of the Popes, offers a rich and well-preserved cultural heritage. Discover Avignon, one of the most beautiful cities in France and the Vaucluse.
Visit Avignon’s UNESCO-listed historic center
Avignon’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the ancient capital of Christianity and its rich cultural heritage.
The Palais des Papes in Avignon
First, discover the famous Palais des Papes, which dominates the square. The Palais des Papes was home to the royal papacy of Avignon until 1418, when it became the residence of papal representatives and French royalty. The city’s nickname, “City of the Popes”, was born of this past. Step back in time and discover the largest Gothic palace and its many lives: military, cultural and religious. Thanks to augmented reality, discover the Palais des Papes in its heyday.
Other Unesco sites in Avignon
In addition to the Palais des Papes, discover the other UNESCO World Heritage sites: Notre-Dame des Doms cathedral, the Petit Palais museum, the Pont d’Avignon and the city walls.
- Located near the Palais des Papes, the Basilica of Notre-Dame des Doms overlooks the Rhône from the Rocher des Doms. Its bell tower boasts a unique carillon of 35 bells.
- The former residence of the archbishops of Avignon, the Petit Palais became a museum in 1976, and today houses a rich collection of medieval paintings and sculptures.
- Built in the 12th century, the Pont d’Avignon, or Pont Saint-Bénézet, is another of the city’s landmarks. Built to link the northern and southern parts of Avignon, 4 of the 22 arches originally built to cope with the Rhone’s violent flooding remain.
- Finally, admire the surprisingly well-preserved ramparts that surround the historic center of the City of the Popes. In the 12th century, Pope Innocent VI decided to build this fortress, which is still accessible today.
Family activitiesin Avignon, Vaucluse
In Avignon, you can enjoy outdoor activities with the whole family in a beautiful setting in the Vaucluse region.
Did you know that Avignon is home to Europe’s largest river island?
To discover Barthelasse Island, take the free river shuttle from Avignon’s Quai de la Ligne.
While you’re there, admire the breathtaking view of the Pont d’Avignon.
This green island can be visited on foot or by bike.
A 13 km bike trail allows you to explore the island’s flora and fauna at your leisure.
Always on foot or by bike, explore the wide promenades around the city walls. This 4 km walk, accessible to all, allows you to admire this long, well-preserved wall.
Parc Chico Mendes is the city’s largest park. Covering 6 hectares, young and old alike can enjoy playgrounds, a fitness trail and footpaths for walking or running. The wooded setting offers pleasant shaded areas in summer.
For a unique experience, take part in an outdoor cultural escape game. Can you solve the 18 riddles of the Confrérie Noire d’Avignon? On an original walking trail, lasting around 2 hours 15 minutes, explore the city’s most beautiful districts in a treasure hunt accessible to all.
Camping near Avignon
Just 13 kilometers from the city of the Popes, the Avignon Parc campsite welcomes you to Vedène in the heart of Provence. This 4-star campsite in the Vaucluse is an ideal destination for discovering the region and taking advantage of the activities on the campsite and in the surrounding area.
Stay in a spacious, comfortable mobile home that makes you feel right at home.
Each vacation rental has a fully-equipped kitchen, a bathroom with separate toilet and a lovely terrace with garden furniture.
This friendly campsite has plenty of space for your tent, caravan or camper van.
The Avignon Parc campsite also features an aquatic area with covered, heated pools.
Relax in the jacuzzi, lagoon and deckchairs.
For the little ones, there are slides and a paddling pool area.
Finally, to keep you entertained during your stay, there areplenty of activities and entertainment on offer, to suit all tastes and desires!
(kids’ club, multisports activities and evening entertainment).
The city of Avignon captivates visitors with its rich heritage and warm, peaceful atmosphere. Take advantage of a stay in Vedène to explore the City of the Popes with your family. You’ll be amazed by all the treasures this exceptional city has to offer.