Avignon, with its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and renowned culinary scene, is the perfect destination for a quick getaway. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or a culture enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to see and do in this captivating city. Here’s how to make the most of your 48 hours in Avignon.
Day 1: Exploring the Historic Heart of Avignon

Morning: Discover the Palais des Papes & Surroundings
Start your day with a visit to Palais des Papes, the iconic medieval palace that was the residence of the popes in the 14th century. This stunning Gothic structure is one of the largest and most important medieval buildings in Europe. Take your time to explore its grand halls, chapels, and gardens, learning about its fascinating history.
Tip: Don’t miss the panoramic views from the top of the Palais des Papes, where you can take in the beauty of the city and the surrounding Rhône River.
Late Morning: Stroll Around Place de l'Horloge & Les Halles Market
After touring the palace, take a stroll around the Place de l'Horloge, the lively square in front of the City Hall. Here, you’ll find a mix of cafés, shops, and street performers. It’s the perfect place to stop for a coffee and people-watch.
Next, head to Les Halles d’Avignon, a bustling covered market where locals buy their fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and pastries. Grab a snack from one of the food stalls or pick up some delicious local specialties like fougasse or Banon cheese to take with you.
Lunch: Enjoy Provençal Delights
For lunch, head to a local bistro and enjoy traditional Provençal dishes like ratatouille, papeton d’aubergine (eggplant flan), or a cheese and charcuterie platter. Try La Cuisine du Dimanche for a cozy, authentic experience or Le Vintage Café for a more casual vibe with fresh, seasonal dishes.
Afternoon: Explore the Surroundings & Local Sights
Visit the Rocher des Doms Gardens
After lunch, take a peaceful walk to the Rocher des Doms, a beautiful garden atop a hill offering stunning views of Avignon, the Pont Saint-Bénézet (the famous bridge), and the surrounding landscape. This is a great place to relax and take photos.
Discover the Pont Saint-Bénézet (Pont d’Avignon)
Next, walk to the Pont Saint-Bénézet, the bridge made famous by the song "Sur le Pont d’Avignon". Only a portion of the bridge remains, but it’s still an iconic landmark of the city. Spend some time here, taking in the views of the Rhône River and the surrounding area.
Late Afternoon: Wine Tasting
Avignon is located in the heart of the Rhône wine region, so don’t miss the chance to sample some local wines. Head to Cave du Palais des Papes for a wine tasting experience. Here, you can try a selection of Côtes du Rhône and Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines while learning about the region’s winemaking history.
Evening: Dinner & Nighttime Stroll
For dinner, enjoy a leisurely meal at one of Avignon’s renowned restaurants. Try L’Agape for a modern twist on Provençal cuisine or Le Petit Gourmand for a more traditional experience. Make sure to pair your meal with some local wine.
After dinner, take a quiet stroll along the Rhône River and through the charming streets of Avignon’s historic center. The city is especially magical at night, with its illuminated landmarks and peaceful atmosphere.
Day 2: Delve Deeper into Avignon & Surroundings

Morning: Visit the Avignon Museum & Art Galleries
Start your second day by exploring Musée Angladon, a small but impressive museum housing works by artists like Van Gogh, Cézanne, and Degas. The museum is less crowded than others, so you can take your time to appreciate the art.
Afterward, visit Musée du Petit Palais, another gem in the city with a collection of Renaissance artwork, including pieces by Raphael and Botticelli.
Mid-Morning: Explore Villeneuve-lès-Avignon
Take a short detour to Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, a small village just across the river from Avignon. This peaceful area offers beautiful medieval architecture and is home to the stunning Fort Saint-André, where you can explore the fortress and enjoy panoramic views of Avignon and the surrounding landscape.
Tip: Don’t miss the Chartreuse de Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, a 14th-century Carthusian monastery surrounded by tranquil gardens.
Lunch: Provençal Picnic in the Countryside
Grab some fresh baguettes, cheeses, olives, and wine from Les Halles d’Avignon and head out for a picnic in the countryside. If the weather is nice, you can enjoy a picnic by the Île de la Barthelasse, a peaceful island in the Rhône River, or in the scenic Parc des Libertés, a park located near the city center.
Afternoon: Wine Tour or Lavender Fields
For your final afternoon in Avignon, choose between two great options:
Option 1: Wine Tour – Avignon is surrounded by famous vineyards, such as Châteauneuf-du-Pape, which is only a short drive away. Book a half-day wine tour and visit several wineries, learning about the region’s winemaking traditions while tasting some of the best wines in France.
Option 2: Lavender Fields (Seasonal) – If visiting in summer, head to the nearby Luberon Valley to explore the lavender fields that make the Provence region famous. These purple fields bloom from June to August and are a sight to behold.
Evening: Farewell Dinner & Sunset Views
End your visit with a sunset dinner overlooking the Rhône River. Book a table at La Table d’Uzès, a fine-dining restaurant with fantastic views of the river and the city. Enjoy one last meal of Provençal cuisine, such as bouillabaisse (a traditional fish stew) or a simple tarte tatin for dessert.
Before heading to the airport or train station, take a final stroll through Avignon’s historic streets to soak in the atmosphere one last time.