Avignon: Holiday Apartments and Houses

The Palais des Papes contains an elaborate painted interior from the 14th century that reflects the splendour and artistic ambitions of the papal court. At the same time, the Palais des Papes is considered one of the most magnificent Gothic buildings of the 14th century. Four of the Pont Saint-Bénézet's original 22 arches have been preserved.

Those planning a stay in Avignon can make a point of renting a holiday apartment.

Culture

The Musée du Petit Palais displays medieval art from Avignon and Provence. Its particularly extensive collection of 14th-century funerary sculptures includes, among other works, the tomb of Cardinal Jean de Lagrange. The Musée du Petit Palais is open to everyone and admission is free.

The Musée Lapidaire preserves ancient works in the former chapel of the Jesuit college.

The Musée Calvet houses an encyclopaedic collection of French, Italian, Flemish and modern paintings, as well as sculptures, decorative art, ethnology, faience and porcelain. It is housed in the Villeneuve-Martignan building, a remarkable example of a Provençal mansion, and is open to everyone with free admission.

The Maison Jean Vilar is a place dedicated to commemorating, communicating and further developing the work of Jean Vilar and popular theatre. It regularly offers meetings, exhibitions, readings and workshops for all audiences.

Nature

The Parc du Rocher des Doms offers panoramic views of Avignon's old town, its architectural monuments and the landscapes of the Rhône plain as far as Mont Ventoux. With its lake and centuries-old trees, it is a place for walking and relaxation.

Avignon's historic centre is easy to explore on foot or by bicycle due to its manageable size.

Collections

The Muséum Requien preserves natural history collections in the fields of geology, zoology and botany and presents a permanent exhibition on the geological history of Vaucluse and its surroundings. It is open from Tuesday to Saturday and admission is free for everyone.

The Collection Lambert is a contemporary art museum in Avignon. It presents ambitious exhibitions as well as a varied cultural and educational programme. Its holdings include remarkable works of Minimal Art and conceptual art, 1980s painting, photography and video.

Events

The Festival d'Avignon was founded by Jean Vilar in 1947 and transforms Avignon into a theatre city every July. Its programme includes performances, readings, exhibitions, films and debates.

Other destinations: Gigondas, Sorgues, Villars, Oppède-Le-Vieux, Blauvac, Lauris, Entraigues-Sur-La-Sorgue, Beaumont-De-Pertuis

To the higher-level travel overview: Vaucluse.