Avignon

Bordered by the waters of the Rhône, the prefecture of the Vaucluse area has kept its picturesque former charm, what with its battlements and medieval stone buildings. The little streets of the town, which is on a site where humans have lived since prehistory are still imprinted with the past.
As a Papal city in the 14th Century, the Palais des Papes (Papal Palace) remains the must-see monument, together with the Pont Saint-Bénezet (Saint-Bénezet Bridge), the subject of a French nursery rhyme. The relaxed rhythm of Provençal life and its theatre festival contribute just as much to its success.

4 walks (the Promenade des Doms, the Promenade Joseph Vernet, the Promenade des Teinturiers and the Promenade de la Carreterie). These walks allow you to discover the city through its churches, chapels, old streets and townhouses.

The Pont d'Avignon and the Palais des Papes, a symbol of the influence of the Church on Western Christianity in the 14th century and the largest Gothic palace in the world.

The Avignon Festival in July, one of the largest theatrical events in the world. This festival was founded by Jean Vilar in 1947 and attracts fans of the theatre (more than 130,000 on average). On this occasion, the city is transformed into an open-air theatre with various performance venues. Another festival not to be missed is the Hivernales (winter festival) in February, which brings together contemporary choreographers and dancers from around the world.

Taking a cruise on the Rhone aboard one of the many boats to get an idea of the city and the region from the river. It is free to cross the Rhône from the dock at the foot of the Pont d'Avignon to the towpath on the island of Barthelasse.

Visiting the city in summer: the heat is stifling and difficult to bear.

Avignon is the capital of the Côtes du Rhône region and Provençal cuisine. Every year, traditional events are held celebrating wine, such as the 'Ban des Vendanges' (Announcement of the Harvest) in the first weekend of September, the 'Arrivée du Vin Primeur' (Arrival of the Nouveau Wine) on the third Thursday in November, and the 'Fête de la Vigne et du Vin' (Vineyard and Wine Festival) in May.

A box of Papalines d'Avignon, sweets that resemble prickly pink thistles with a fine chocolate and Origan liqueur filling.