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Last updated: 28 May, 2023
Expert travel writer: Dana Facaros

When the popes abandoned tumultuous Rome in 1309, they came to Avignon. Seven reigned here until 1377, in a colourful period of greed and depravity that the poet Petrarch labelled the ‘Babylonian captivity’. They left behind nothing less than the biggest Gothic palace of all time, built for luxury as well as defence.

Although much of its decoration has been lost over time, it has lost none of its power to amaze. It’s a big site not really suited to younger children, though ‘Les Luminessences’ – an outdoor 3D show, held every evening from mid-August to late September – is good for all the family.

Don't miss

The palace’s Musée du Petit Palais houses an outstanding collection of medieval and early Renaissance art, including a lovely Botticelli Madonna and an altarpiece by Enguerrand Quarton.

Within the palace grounds, you’ll find an excellent wine shop selling 55 different Cotes du Rhone wines at vineyard prices.

Price from: £10
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

Guided tours are currently only in French (pre-COVID they used to have English tours too – check the website to see if they’re back). Even without a tour, the new multimedia installations recreating the sumptuous 14th century bring the palace and popes to life.

When to do it

The palace is open all year round, seven days a week. In summer, arrive at opening time to avoid queues. It’s more of a treat in the winter, when you practically have it to yourself.

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Avignon Walking Tour including Pope's Palace

Avignon

Avignon Walking Tour including Pope's Palace
Marvel at magnificent medieval architecture on this 3-hour walking tour of Avignon, including the Pope’s Palace. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage–listed city of Avignon, home to the Papacy and seat of western Christianity in the 14th century. Follow your guide along the historical city walls for breathtaking views over the Rhône River. Beat the queues and enjoy swift access to the chambers and chapels of the Pope’s Palace. Admire 19th-century architecture in the beautiful Place de l’Horloge and finish with a glass of Côtes du Rhône wine.

Price: €69

Min age: 4

Rating 4.35 / 5 [101 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Avignon & Luberon Experience

Avignon

Avignon & Luberon Experience
See the best of Provence with Avignon and Luberon on this day trip. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the city of Pope and visit the Popes' Palace. Enjoy a glass of Côtes du Rhône wine at the end of your walking tour. Travel into the heart of the Luberon region with your expert guide by comfortable minivan. Stroll in Roussillon and admire traditional architecture in the hilltop village of Gordes . Your group size is limited to eight, ensuring a small-group experience.

Price: €122

Min age: 4

Rating 4.55 / 5 [9 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Classic old town Avignon from the Romans to the Pope's - half day private tour

Avignon

Classic old town Avignon from the Romans to the Pope's - half day private tour
Tour summary - classic old town Avignon: - See the iconic sights of Avignon, historic city best known for the impressive Palais des Papes – one of the Avignon's best known. There are many landmarks to discover across the city, elegant squares to sit & watch the world go by. As well as history Avignon has a lively, modern feel with shops, bars, restaurants. The visit is a mix of it all including the renowned market hall. Finally, Pont Saint-Bénézet one of Avignon’s most iconic sites - the bridge, much was washed away in the 17th century - a nod to the history of the city Highlights: Wander & discover the old town of Avignon. Visit the gardens Palais des Papes overlooking the town with guided visit of Palais des Papes. Enjoy elegant surroundings of the towns squares, historic buildings,panoramic views. Visit the Pont Saint Bénézet the famous Pont d’Avignon. Experience the bustling vibe the busy local indoor food market. *this is not an in-depth historical guided tour of Palais des Papes

Price: €275

Min age: 6

Rating 4.84 / 5 [19 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Avignon & the Pont du Gard

Avignon

Avignon & the Pont du Gard
Meet your professional guide at the Marseille cruise terminal and climb aboard a comfortable minivan for a private excursion to discover Avignon and the Pont du Gard. As soon as you arrive in Avignon your guide will open the doors of the Palais de Papes to you and tell you all the secrets of the Popes during their stay in Avignon in the 14th century. After the visit of the Palais des Papes you can visit the cathedral and the gardens of the Popes and you will enjoy the visit in the city center classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site before joining your minivan on the way to the Pont du Gard. Your guide opens the doors of the Pont du Gard and the architectural secrets of this aqueduct built 2000 years ago.

Price: €440

Min age: 0

Rating 4.66 / 5 [9 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Avignon

Provence, France

Exterior photo of the Palace of the Popes lit up at night

A lively medieval town bursting with art and creativity, and centrally located for sightseeing in Provence. Host of the superb Avignon Festival.

Provence

Provence, France

Field of bright purple lavender in front of an old church

Gorgeous landscapes peppered with beautiful villages, sunflowers and lavender, art-filled towns, lively cultural festivals and exquisite food and wine. Provence is everything you imagined it would be.

Arles

Provence, France

front view of facade at sunset

Fascinating Roman, and medieval monuments and memories of Van Gogh, plus a winsome shabby-chic charm.

Round-ups that include this experience

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