Itinerary

Avignon is a charming city in the south of France, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Here’s a delightful 7-day itinerary that will let you soak in all the beauty and charm of Avignon and its surroundings. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Avignon

Morning:

• Arrive in Avignon and check into your accommodation. If you’re staying in the city center, you’ll be right in the heart of the action!
• Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Try a croissant or a pain au chocolat with a café au lait.

Afternoon:

• Head to the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), one of the largest Gothic palaces in the world. Take your time exploring its grand halls and chapels.
• Afterward, stroll through the Place de l'Horloge, where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere and maybe grab a light lunch at one of the nearby bistros.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a traditional Provençal restaurant. Try local specialties like ratatouille or bouillabaisse.
• If you’re up for it, take a leisurely evening walk along the Pont Saint-Bénézet (the famous bridge) and enjoy the sunset views.

## Day 2: Art and Culture

Morning:

• Visit the Musée du Petit Palais, which houses a fantastic collection of Renaissance paintings. It’s a hidden gem!
• Afterward, wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, admiring the medieval architecture.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at a local market, like the Les Halles d'Avignon, where you can sample fresh produce, cheeses, and charcuterie.
• Spend the afternoon at the Collection Lambert, a contemporary art museum that often features exciting exhibitions.

Evening:

• Dine at a restaurant with a terrace for a lovely view of the city. Try some local wines from the nearby vineyards!

## Day 3: Day Trip to Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Morning:

• Take a short trip to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, famous for its vineyards and wine production. You can either drive or take a guided tour.
• Start with a visit to the Château de Châteauneuf-du-Pape for stunning views and a bit of history.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a wine tasting at one of the local wineries. Many offer tours and tastings, so you can learn about the winemaking process.
• Have lunch at a local bistro, savoring some regional dishes paired with the local wines.

Evening:

• Return to Avignon and relax at your accommodation.
• For dinner, try a cozy restaurant in the city center, perhaps one that specializes in local cuisine.

## Day 4: Discovering the Surroundings

Morning:

• Take a trip to the Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Avignon.
• Spend some time exploring the site and taking in the stunning views.

Afternoon:

• Have a picnic lunch by the river or at one of the nearby cafés.
• After lunch, head to Nîmes to see the well-preserved Roman amphitheater and the Maison Carrée.

Evening:

• Return to Avignon and enjoy a casual dinner. Perhaps try a crêperie for something different!

## Day 5: Markets and Gardens

Morning:

• Visit the Avignon Market (if it’s a Thursday or Saturday) for a taste of local life. You’ll find everything from fresh produce to artisan goods.
• Grab breakfast at the market, sampling local cheeses and pastries.

Afternoon:

• Spend some time at the Rocher des Doms, a beautiful park with stunning views of the Rhône River and the city.
• Have lunch at a café nearby, enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Evening:

• Attend a performance at the Théâtre de l'Odéon or check out local events happening in the city.
• Enjoy dinner at a restaurant that offers a tasting menu to experience a variety of local flavors.

## Day 6: Avignon’s Hidden Gems

Morning:

• Explore the Rue des Teinturiers, a picturesque street lined with old waterwheels and charming shops.
• Visit the Musee Calvet, an art museum with a diverse collection, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at a café in the area, then take a leisurely stroll along the Rhône River.
• Visit the Cathedral of Notre-Dame des Doms, located next to the Palais des Papes, for some stunning views.

Evening:

• Enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant with a view of the Palais des Papes, soaking in the ambiance of Avignon at night.

## Day 7: Departure

Morning:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your favorite café, soaking in the last moments of Avignon.
• If time allows, do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs or local delicacies.

Afternoon:

• Check out of your accommodation and head to the train station or airport for your departure.

And there you have it! A week filled with history, culture, and delicious food in the beautiful city of Avignon. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! Bon voyage! 🌍✨