Avignon is most famous (and rightfully so) as the historical home base for seven rebellious Popes who left Rome during the Babylonian Captivity. Those 39 years made Avignon a center for religion and politics in France, and its famous bridge provided one of the few passes of the river Rhone. A popular camping destination for French campers and historical buffs alike, the medieval alleys and architecture have still held up, making Avignon a city trapped in the 13th century. Its a totally doable daytrip to see everything and not leave feeling disappointed that you didn't see more, while still wondering what was over that little bridge or around that stone turret. Come here and you'll expect to hear tamborines and pipes in the background while you walk around, but it will actually just be the city's vibant bars and cafes with the occasional annoyance of a tourist tram or school group.
Flights: Aéroport Avignon Caumont, (☎ AVN; 04 90 81 51 51; www.avignon.aeroport.fr/fr), 8km from town. Air France flies to Paris Orly (4 per day), and Flybe goes to Southampton and Exeter ...more
The town of Avignon is surrounded by a giant wall, so there are only so many ways you can get lost in it. rue de la Republique, the main road from the train station, leads straight to the Palais des Papes ...more
When the theater troupes hit town, lodging is generally unavailable no matter how many euro you are willing to spend; reserve up to six months in advance for July and August. The tourist office lists organizations ...more
There’s a selection of creative restaurants on the chic rue des Teinturiers. The Vietnamese restaurants on side streets throughout the city are great budget options. A walk up rue Carnot and rue de la ...more
Palais des Papes, (☎ 04 90 27 50 00; www.avignon-tourisme.com), This giant Gothic palace was built at the height of the Catholic Church's power, when Pope Clement V decided the Vatican was too cramped ...more
When the festival rolls into town, Avignon explodes with activity and bars, shops, and restaurants stay open until early morning. Luckily, the rest of the year promises only slightly tamer nightlife. ...more
From October to June, opera, drama, and classical music performances take place in the Opéra Théâtre, 1 rue Racine (☎ 04 90 82 42 42). Rue des Teinturiers stays animated during shows in the Théâtre ...more
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For 52 years, we have published the world’s favorite budget travel guides, written entirely by students and updated every year. With pen and notebook in hand and a few changes of underwear stuffed in our backpacks, we spend months roaming the globe in search of travel bargains.
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