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 Often referred to as the “Gateway to Provence” and located on the banks of the Rhône, Avignon is a truly fascinating city. Once within the shadows of the impressive ramparts which surround the city, you will be transported to another world, an enchanting historic centre dominated by the magnificent Palais des Papes and cathedral complex.
Avignon developed as a Papal capital during the fourteenth century and many of the city’s monuments and sights date back to this time. The Palais des Papes was constructed as a residence for Pope Benoît XII and was further developed by his successor Clement VI. During the French Revolution the palace was converted to a barracks before being restored and opened to the public. A visit to the palace is a must as it provides a valuable insight into Avignon’s unique past and with temperatures soaring to in excess of 30ºC the central courtyard of the palace provides an oasis of cool in the heat of the day. The city ramparts date back to 1355 when Pope Innocent IV ordered their construction to defend the flourishing city.
The spacious Place de l’Horloge is at the heart of the old town and is the place to see and be seen on a sunny day. The shady pavement cafés and restaurants spill out into the square itself and street performers provide a colourful, carnival atmosphere during the summer. There is no better place to watch the world go by, whilst sipping a refreshing Pastis, the local aniseed-flavoured aperitif and savouring some local olives.
The Place de l’Horloge is surrounded by quiet squares and pedestrian streets lined with individual boutiques and traditional restaurants serving regional delicacies. Provence is renowned for its luscious, sun-ripened fruit and vegetables and the finest olive oil. Traditional recipes are cooked simply to ensure a fusion of colour and flavour, just the thing for a balmy summer’s evening. Add a bottle of Côtes du Rhône and life doesn’t get any better…
No visit to Avignon would be complete without a stroll along its famous bridge. Le Pont d’Avignon was constructed between 1177 and 1185 as the first bridge over the lower Rhône Valley. There is no doubt that the bridge was fundamental to the development of Avignon as a commercial centre. After recurrent damage by floods and war the bridge was restored several times but was finally abandoned in the 17th century. The bridge now stops forlornly in the middle of the river with only 4 of the original 22 arches intact. Nevertheless the bridge still attracts thousands of visitors every year, all anxious to discover the inspiration for the song “Sur le Pont d’Avignon”.
Every July, Avignon welcomes actors, musicians and street performers from across the world to its annual festival. Almost every public building in the city is transformed into a theatre or concert hall for the duration of the festival and visitors flock from all over France and Europe to marvel at some of the very best dramatic performances. A word of warning though, accommodation in Avignon during the festival books up months in advance so make sure you have secured hotel rooms if you plan to visit during July.
With so much to offer it’s easy to see why Avignon is such a popular city-break destination. But, why not take a few days to explore the beautiful region of Provence. You’ll be hard-pushed to find another region which offers such colourful contrasts: from bright yellow sunflowers to hazy purple lavender; from the golden and terracotta hues of the houses to the unparalleled deep blue of the provençal sky.
If you’re keen to sample more of Provence and the surrounding area then there’s no better way than by train. From the tree-lined boulevards and colourful markets of Aix-en-Provence to the majestic Roman towns of Orange and Arles, the TGV Méditerranée will put you on the fast track to all things Provençal.
How to get there:
Getting to Avignon couldn’t be easier thanks to a range of great rail travel options:
TGV fares from Paris or Lille to Avignon start from as little as £19pp single in standard class*.
Travel from London Waterloo on Eurostar and TGV from as little as £109pp return in standard class or £189pp return in first class.
* Terms & conditions apply.
Events:
July : Avignon Theatre Festival
www.festival-avignon.com
18 November: Côtes du Rhône Wine Festival
4 – 31 December: Traditional Christmas Market
For details of other forthcoming events visit www.avignon-tourisme.com
Useful links:
Tourist information www.avignon-tourisme.com
Hotels
www.f-t-s.co.uk
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