Avignon

CityProvence-Alpes-Cote-d'Azur, France

Avignon is a CITY in Provence-Alpes-Cote-d'Azur, France.

Avignon, the 'City of Popes,' enchants with its medieval ramparts, the monumental Palais des Papes, and the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet. Stroll through cobblestone streets in the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where lively cafés, Provençal markets, and art galleries abound. The Rhône River adds a serene backdrop, while the famous Avignon Festival in July transforms the city into a vibrant stage for theater and performance. Beyond the walls, the lavender fields and vineyards of Provence beckon for day trips. With its rich history, warm Mediterranean climate, and authentic French charm, Avignon offers a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and scenic beauty.

Best time to visit Avignon

The best time is April to June and September to October for pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. July offers the famous Festival d'Avignon but brings peak crowds and higher costs. Summer (June-August) is hot but lively; spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Mild 11-20°C

Travel notes

Crowds
Low
Prices
Low

Autumn colors, fewer tourists

Know before you go

Getting there

AVN

Avignon-Provence Airport

Domestic/International

8 km away

MRS

Marseille Provence Airport

International

90 km away

NCE

Nice Côte d'Azur Airport

International

220 km away

Getting around

"Avignon is walkable, especially the historic center within the ramparts. The local bus network (TCRA) covers the city and suburbs; a single ticket costs around €1. The Avignon TGV station connects to major cities, and a shuttle bus links to the city center. Biking is popular with rental options available. Taxis and ride-sharing are also accessible."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in city centre, cafés, and hotels

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport or shops from €5

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Petty crime exists; stay vigilant in tourist spots.

Night safety

7/10

Petty crime exists; stay vigilant in tourist spots.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Avignon is generally safe for tourists, but be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas like train stations and markets. Avoid poorly lit streets at night, especially near the train station. Keep valuables secure and be aware of common scams targeting tourists. The city center is well-policed, and emergency services are responsive."

Entry and health

Health information

"Avignon has excellent healthcare with hospitals like Centre Hospitalier d'Avignon. EU citizens should bring a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC); others need comprehensive travel insurance. Tap water is safe to drink. Pharmacies are widely available and can provide basic medical advice. In summer, stay hydrated and use sun protection due to high temperatures."

Culture

Local customs

"Greet with 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants. Dress smart-casual; avoid overly beachwear in town. Dining etiquette includes keeping hands on the table and saying 'Merci' after service. Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up the bill is appreciated. Respect quiet hours, especially in residential areas."
French (official)OccitanGermanArabicPortugueseFrench

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$15 | a mid-range meal costs ~$15-25

Hotels

$80-120 | budget hotels range $80-120/night

Local transport

$1.30 | local bus ride ~$1.30

Cost notes

Prices higher during July festival.

Timezone

Europe/Paris
Local time 15:54

More facts

Population

89,769

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: AVN, Abinion, Avennio, Avignon, Avignone, Avignuni, Avin'jon, Avin'on, Avinhao, Avinhon, Avinhão, Avinjonas, Avinjono, Avinon, Avinona, Avinyo, Avinyon, Avinyó, Avinyón, Aviñón, Aviņona, Awinion, abinyong, afynywn, avhiyom, avinioni, avuinyon, awynywn, xa wiyng, ya wei nong, Αβινιόν, Авиньон, Авињон, Авіньйон, Авіньён, Ավինյոն, אביניון, آوینیون, أفينيون, اوینیون, ایوگناں, आव्हियों, อาวีญง, ཨ་ཝི་ཉོང་།, ავინიონი, アヴィニョン, 亞維農, 아비뇽, अविगनोन, 阿维尼翁

Major HubHistoricCulturalFood & WineFamily-FriendlyArt & Architecture