Gothic architecture, medieval collections and contemporary art offer different cultural perspectives on Avignon. In July, the Festival d’Avignon adds another dimension. When planning your stay, you can therefore focus on architectural landmarks, museums or the seasonal theatre programme. The surrounding landscape is also part of the picture: from Parc du Rocher des Doms, panoramic views stretch across the old town and its monuments to the Rhône plain and Mont Ventoux.

Gothic architecture and medieval art

The Palais des Papes is one of the most magnificent Gothic buildings of the 14th century. Its intricately painted interior, also dating from that period, reflects the splendour and artistic ambitions of the papal court. The building brings together Gothic architecture and an elaborately decorated interior.

Four of the Pont Saint-Bénézet’s original 22 arches remain. The number makes the difference between the structure as it stands today and its original scale immediately clear.

The Musée du Petit Palais displays medieval art from Avignon and Provence. A particular highlight is its extensive collection of 14th-century funerary sculptures, which includes the tomb of Cardinal Jean de Lagrange. The museum thus offers a tangible introduction to medieval funerary art. It is accessible to everyone and free of charge; check the latest visitor information before your visit.

The Musée Calvet offers a broader perspective on collections. Its encyclopaedic holdings include French, Italian, Flemish and modern painting, as well as sculpture, decorative arts, ethnology, faience and porcelain. The museum is housed in the Hôtel de Villeneuve-Martignan, a notable example of a Provençal mansion. The collection and the building thus give visitors two distinct points of interest.

From antiquity and natural history to the present day

The Musée Lapidaire preserves ancient works in the former chapel of the Jesuit college. The focus shifts to natural history at the Muséum Requien, whose collections cover geology, zoology and botany. A permanent exhibition also explores the geological history of the Vaucluse and its surroundings. The Muséum is open Tuesday to Saturday and is free of charge. Check the current opening times before your visit.

The Collection Lambert is a contemporary art museum in Avignon. Its holdings include works of Minimal and Conceptual art, painting from the 1980s, photography and video. It also presents ambitious exhibitions and a varied cultural and educational programme. If you want to plan your visit around particular exhibitions or events, check the latest dates.

The Maison Jean Vilar is dedicated to preserving the memory of, sharing and further developing the work of Jean Vilar and popular theatre. Its regular programme includes talks, exhibitions, readings and workshops for all audiences. It is also worth checking the schedule if you would like to plan your stay around a particular event.

Festival, park and routes through the old town

Founded by Jean Vilar in 1947, the Festival d’Avignon turns Avignon into a theatre city every July. The programme includes performances, readings, exhibitions, films and debates. It brings together different forms of culture; if the festival is a deciding factor in your trip, check the dates for the year you plan to visit.

As a counterpoint to museums and theatre, Parc du Rocher des Doms offers a place to stroll and relax. Its features include a lake and centuries-old trees. Panoramic views take in the old town, its monuments and the landscapes of the Rhône plain as far as Mont Ventoux. Avignon’s historic centre is compact and easy to explore on foot or by bicycle.

Discover more destinations: Cavaillon, Villars, Menerbes, Lauris, Orange, Le Pontet, Gargas, Sainte-Cécile-Les-Vignes.

For the broader travel overview: Vaucluse.