France Day 1
After arriving in Paris in the morning, we boarded a TGV high-speed train to Avignon, the historic heart of Provence. Upon arrival, we stored our luggage at the Avignon Grand Hotel, a comfortable 4-star property conveniently located just steps from the historic city center and landmarks like the Palais des Papes. The hotel offered excellent service and a great breakfast, making it a perfect base for exploring the region.
Then we explored the impressive Palais des Papes, wandering through its grand halls and taking in the panoramic views from the rooftop. Built in the 14th century, the Palais des Papes served as the seat of the Roman Catholic papacy during a period known as the Avignon Papacy, when seven successive popes resided in the city instead of Rome. As one of the largest and most important Gothic buildings in Europe, the palace reflects both the spiritual authority and political power of the Church at the time. Walking through its vast chambers and fortified towers, we could sense the weight of centuries of religious history and the grandeur that once dominated medieval Christendom.
We walked along the famous Pont d’Avignon, officially known as the Pont Saint-Bénézet, a 12th-century bridge steeped in legend and history. Originally spanning the Rhône River with 22 arches, the bridge was a vital medieval crossing and a marvel of engineering for its time, though much of it was eventually swept away by floods—today, only four arches remain. According to local legend, it was built by a young shepherd named Bénézet who claimed he was divinely inspired to construct it. We spent the rest of the day wandering the charming old town, browsing local markets, and sampling Provençal cuisine at a cozy café. To cap off the day, we enjoyed a glass of Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine while watching the sunset over this beautiful medieval city.
Le Vintage is a popular bistronomic restaurant located in the heart of Avignon, just steps from the Palais des Papes. With a 4.5-star rating on Tripadvisor and a central location at 10 Rue Galante, it’s a favorite among both locals and tourists seeking a refined yet relaxed dining experience.
The Festival d’Avignon, held every July, is one of Europe’s top theater festivals, turning the historic city into a giant stage with performances in iconic venues like the Palais des Papes. Alongside the official program, the Festival OFF fills the streets with hundreds of independent shows, street performances, and a vibrant, creative atmosphere.