Here’s a complete itinerary for exploring Avignon in 3 days or 5 days, covering the top attractions, cultural highlights, local food experiences, and nearby day trips to help you make the most of your visit:
Avignon Itinerary – 3 Days
Day 1: Discover Avignon’s Historic Heart
Morning:
- Start with the Palais des Papes — explore its grand Gothic architecture and papal history.
- Visit the nearby Avignon Cathedral (Notre-Dame des Doms).
Afternoon:
Evening:
Day 2: Art, Culture & Local Flavors
Morning:
- Visit the Musée du Petit Palais to admire Renaissance masterpieces.
- Explore the Collection Lambert for contemporary art.
Afternoon:
Head to Les Halles Market for a local food experience — taste cheeses, wines, and Provençal specialties.
Wander along Rue des Teinturiers, one of Avignon’s most picturesque streets.
Evening:
Day 3: Explore Beyond the City Walls
Morning & Afternoon:
- Take a short trip to Villeneuve-lès-Avignon to visit Fort Saint-André and the Chartreuse Monastery.
- Alternatively, relax along the Rhône riverbanks or cycle around the Île de la Barthelasse for scenic views.
Evening:
Avignon Itinerary – 5 Days
If you have 5 days, you can enjoy a slower pace and include day trips to nearby Provençal gems.
Day 4: Day Trip to Pont du Gard & Nîmes
- Visit the Pont du Gard, a UNESCO-listed Roman aqueduct just 30 minutes away.
- Continue to Nîmes to explore the Arena of Nîmes, Maison Carrée, and Roman ruins.
- Return to Avignon in the evening for dinner.
Day 5: Wine, Villages & Provençal Charm
- Take a day trip to Châteauneuf-du-Pape for wine tasting at world-famous vineyards.
- Alternatively, explore the Luberon villages such as Gordes and Roussillon for breathtaking views and colorful streets.
- Return to Avignon to enjoy a farewell dinner at a cozy Provençal bistro.
Tips for Your Trip
- Best time to visit: April to June or September to October for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Stay central: Booking accommodation inside the city walls makes exploring easier on foot.
- Car-free travel: Walking, buses, trams, and free electric shuttles make getting around simple.