Ponts and palaces: The best things to do in Avignon, France ontheluce.com

Discover the best things to do in Avignon, the historic city in the South of France which was once the home of the Popes, from boat trips and bridges on the Rhône to historic palaces and wine tasting.

Set on the banks of the Rhône and surrounded by medieval stone ramparts, Avignon is one of Provence’s biggest cities. So I was expecting it to be, well, more like a big city. But instead I found a place with a relaxed, small-town feel. It comes with a fascinating history, and its time as home of the Popes means there’s some impressive art and architecture.

But Avignon isn’t just looking towards to the past – there’s a big student population with new bars and restaurants springing up all the time. It’s a good place to while away a day or two eating, drinking and sightseeing, not to mention exploring the gorgeous Provençal countryside on its doorstep. So here’s my pick of the best things to do in Avignon.