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About Avignon

Graceful Avignon is a classic Provençal destination, perfect for history buffs and foodies alike. Perhaps best known for the nursery rhyme about the bridge, this sophisticated city was also the home of the papacy for 68 years in the 14th Century, and much of its impressive ecclesiastical architecture reflects this illustrious past. Avignon is also bursting with superb accommodation options, including simple guesthouses and luxurious hotels fit for a host of tastes and budgets. Our pick of the best places to stay in Avignon features both central properties and tranquil rural hideaways — ideal for active families and romantic couples.

Begin your explorations with a stroll around the centre of Avignon, where you’ll discover narrow alleyways opening onto expansive squares, charming little streets lined with cafés, and some seriously striking architecture. Expect marvellous galleries and museums, including the Musée Lapidaire, the Musée Calvet and the Collection Lambert — all well worth visiting. The Basilique St-Pierre and Eglise et Cloître des Carmes are also wonderful, but the real highlight is the immense Palais des Papes, one of the largest medieval Gothic buildings in the world. There are artistic treasures — notably Botticelli’s ‘Virgin and Child’ — to be seen at the Musée due Petit Palais, too, where the papal entourage lived whilst their palace was completed.

Intersperse your cultural discoveries with pauses in Avignon’s many cafés, bars and eateries to sample and savour delicious regional specialities. A gourmet food tour is also a fun way to experience the city. Whilst in town, do admire the crumbling medieval bridge which spans half the Rhône, and take a spin out on the river. There are some fabulous boat tours, as well as opportunities to kayak, cycle and hike in the surrounding countryside. Day trips to Orange, site of a Roman amphitheatre, are very popular.

Avignon is at its busiest in July, when the city hosts France’s largest arts festival. This is an exciting time to visit, but book your trip well in advance — the best places to stay in Avignon fill up fast!

The Best Places to Stay in Avignon

For a City B&B

  • Le Limas offers four airy bedrooms in a central location, with views of the Palais des Papes. Contemporary style fuses with period features to create a relaxed, welcoming feel. Great for couples, families or a group keen to book the whole place.
  • Hôtel de L’Horloge is a smart property right on Avignon's main square. Well-suited to business travellers or families, the hotel is comfortable and centrally-located, with 66 rooms and suites — some offering space for families or great city views. A convenient city hotel serving big breakfasts.
  • Maison Velvet is a charming three-bedroom B&B in an Art Nouveau building in the city centre. The real appeal is the artsy, creative feel. Think Persian rugs, bright tiles and original artwork, as well as a sunny terrace. For a couple, family or group.
  • L'Observance features bright guestrooms and a self-catering apartment for families near Avignon's many sights. The B&B includes a swimming pool, relaxing gardens and contemporary decor.

For Foodies

  • Hôtel d’Europe is undoubtedly one of the best places to stay in Avignon. The height of sophistication and luxury, the property is one of France's oldest hotels. Set metres from the Palais des Papes, Chef Pascal Auger's restaurant La Vieille Fontaine has a well-deserved Michelin star. A gourmet treat.
  • Le Prieuré is famed for its characterful, ivy-clad exterior and Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant. Once a 14th-century monastery, the hotel now offers smart guestrooms and a swimming pool in leafy gardens. A foodie favourite in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon.
  • La Mirande was previously a cardinal's palace, and is now an impeccably-decorated luxury hotel with 26 guestrooms. One for romantic couples and foodies, the property boasts a fantastic Michelin-starred restaurant where Chef Florent Pietravalle crafts delightful dishes from seasonal ingredients. The cookery school is a highlight for would-be chefs! The Palais des Papes is across the street.

For Romance

  • La Banasterie promises a romantic stay in a superb 16th-century property, just 50 metres from the Palais des Papes. An elegant B&B with grown-up rooms and suites, this spot also specialises in gourmet breakfasts. Delightful.
  • No. 15 is a chic guesthouse with just five rooms featuring big bathrooms and lush garden views. The outdoor pool and sun terrace are lovely for unwinding, and breakfasts are served in a pretty conservatory. A top B&B for tranquil couples.
  • La Divine Comédie boasts the largest private garden in Avignon. Tucked beneath leafy trees, a historic mansion offers five enchanting suites with antique furnishings and swish bathrooms. Kick back in the pool and mini-spa after exploring the city. Absolute luxury — perfect for a dream honeymoon.
  • Auberge de Cassagne is a beautiful Provençal farmhouse featuring 43 elegant rooms and suites within easy reach of Avignon. The outdoor pool, sumptuous spa and lavender-filled gardens are wonderful. Foodies will love Chef Philippe Boucher's creations. A five-star stay and a superb wedding venue.

For A Rural Escape

  • Le Mas de Capelou is a tranquil farmhouse B&B seven kilometres from the heart of Avignon. With rooms, suites and modern self-catering apartments, this is a restful choice for couples, groups or families. Little ones will love the pool, and there's stacks of space to unwind.
  • Auberge de Noves offers an indulgent rural escape, with sumptuous rooms and suites in expansive gardens. Great for active travellers, the property offers a swimming pool and tennis court, and there are cycle paths in the vicinity. Expect excellent regional fare in the restaurant. For families or couples.
  • Domaine de Rhodes features rooms, a studio, an apartment and little self-catering cottages tucked amidst beautiful gardens. Just ten minutes from the sights of Avignon, this is a restful rural retreat for quiet couples and families. The swimming pool will be a sure-fire hit! A soothing pick for nature lovers.

For Great Value

  • L’Atelier is a charming 16th-century residence in Villeneuve-lez-Avignon, with stone walls, exposed beams and comfortable furnishings. Family-run, this chic little hotel has a peaceful garden and roof terrace, and wonderful buffet breakfasts. A great-value choice for couples or families.
  • La Bastide des Anges promises a warm welcome on Ile de la Barthelasse, just alongside Avignon. The five spacious rooms are lovely, as are the extensive gardens and the outdoor pool. Tranquil & excellent value for families, couples or groups.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

Travel Information

  • Fly to Avignon-Provence Airport, just 8km from town, or to Marseille-Provence Airport, 80km away. The latter offers more regular international connections.
  • Alternatively, catch the Eurostar from London — you'll be in Avignon in under six hours.
  • Provence is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • In the path of the famous Mistral wind, Avignon is clear and sunny throughout much of the year. The heat hits its peak between June and September, averaging at around 30°C. This is a beautiful time to visit, with the lavender in bloom and arts and music festivals aplenty, but it can be very busy. Come during the spring for cooler weather and a quieter atmosphere.

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Best Hotels in Avignon

  • L'Atelier Avignon 22 rooms from £74

    City Style  -  Tres chic accommodation - with a fabulous roof terrace boasting urban views
    Families  -  Don't leave anyone behind - you can even bring the dog along!
    Value chic  -  Great value, central location - a no fail option!
    Local exploring  -  Occupying a central spot - perfect for exploring
    Air conditioningGardenPet friendly

    A delightful hotel set in a stunning 16th century house. L'Atelier fuses its rustic design with contemporary furnishings to produce comfortable, attractive rooms. After a day's exploring Avignon's papal history, relax in the garden with a glass of wine or take in city views from the roof terrace. See More

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  • Aux Augustins Avignon (Gard) 11 rooms from £87

    Local exploring  -  In the centre of the city, immerse yourself in local life with plenty of shops, restaurants and sights to discover close by
    Architectural  -  Reinvented into a hotel, the rooms feature the old monastery's exposed walls, low ceilings and wooden beams
    Charming  -  Pretty French style bedrooms, with classic decor and art works from emerging contemporary talent
    Families  -  Rooms can sleep up to 4 guests, with a variety of different sized apartments to choose from
    Air conditioningGardenDisabled accessParking

    A 13th century monastery converted into a selection of family friendly B&B rooms and self catering studios in the centre of Avignon. Interiors are typically French in style, with plenty of original features and elegant furnishings; there's the added bonus of a patio garden. Ideal for a short break. See More

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  • L'Observance Avignon 6 rooms from £87

    Local exploring  -  Located within the city’s old walls, this property is perfectly placed for exploring historic Avignon by foot
    Families  -  The two bedroom apartment, complete with a kitchen, is an easy base for families
    Less £  -  Despite the excellent location, rooms start at 100 Euros. A well-priced option
    Great walks  -  Wander around this beautiful historic city taking in its atmosphere
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    A charming B&B located in the heart of quaint Avignon. Boasting four lovely rooms as well as a two bedroom apartment which features a private entrance and a kitchenette. Spend days exploring the local historic sights before returning to unwind besides the pool. See More

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  • Le Limas Avignon 4 rooms from £90

    Chic  -  Interiors are fresh and modern with whitewashed walls and contemporary art yet original features still remain — a very chic stay
    Value chic  -  With plenty of style and a central location, this is a reasonably priced stay with rooms starting at 104 Euros
    Sights nearby  -  Bang in the centre of Avignon, close to the famous bridge and the Palais des Papes
    Historic  -  The hotel is set in a beautiful original 18th-century town house
    Air conditioningViewsNo pets

    Simple B&B in the centre of Avignon with views of Palais des Papes. Stylish bedrooms offer a chic blend of contemporary and antique with original parquet floors and fireplaces alongside furniture and lighting by Starck. There's a pleasant sun terrace & an unbeatable location for exploring the city. See More

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  • La Banasterie Avignon 6 rooms from £91

    Local exploring  -  Set in the heart of historic Avignon, right next to the Palace of the Popes, this couldn't be better placed for exploring
    Boutique  -  A historic building mixing original features such as exposed stone alongside simple modern design. Boutique perfection
    Sights nearby  -  Visit some of the city's most famed attractions such as the 14th-century Papal Palace and the Pont d’Avignon
    Self catering  -  For a more independent stay choose the apartment complete with a living area and kitchenette
    Air conditioningGarden

    A beautiful 16th-century residence just a few steps from the romantic Pont Saint-Bénézet and 50 metres from the historic Papal Palace. The rooms are simultaneously stylish, elegant and cosy. Enjoy the atmospheric stone walls and a private terrace or patio and even your own fountain! See More

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  • Domaine de Rhodes 84000 Avignon 8 rooms from £102

    Local exploring  -  Despite the remote feeling, the property is actually only three miles from Avignon meaning guests have the best of both worlds
    Families  -  The self-catering family apartment sleeps up to four — perfect for those looking for an independent stay
    Hotel Entertainment  -  In the gardens are ping-pong tables, a badminton court and pétanque
    Historic  -  An ancient 16th-century hunting lodge with a real sense of place
    Swimming PoolGardenParking

    Set in wooded farmland on a lush island in the Rhone, Domaine de Rhodes is a pastoral retreat only ten minutes from the sights of Avignon. Its peaceful gardens, shaded by tall plane trees, are perfect for lazy afternoons, and there's a pool. See More

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  • Maison Velvet Avignon 3 rooms from £113

    Local exploring  -  Set inside the ramparts of Avignon, the hotel is within walking distance of Avignon's main attractions of the city
    Groups  -  With just three rooms, this is a good option to rent out in its entirety with friends or family
    Short break  -  With everything a stroll away, this is a good choice for those on a quick cultural getaway
    Traditional  -  Elegant rooms feature large sash windows, traditional fabrics, Turkish rugs, and antiques
    Air conditioningParking

    A small intimate B&B in the centre of Avignon, just 10 minutes walk from the main sights. The three bedrooms are spacious with original painted floors, Perisan rugs, and one-off pieces of furniture. There's even a pretty terrace for sitting out. A charming spot for exploring this historic town. See More

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  • Hôtel de l'Horloge Avignon 66 rooms from £138

    Families  -  Family rooms sleep two adults and two children making this an easy choice for those travelling with young kids
    Local exploring  -  Set in the heart of historic Avignon, this is an ideal base for those who want to explore the city by foot
    Less £  -  With comfortable and quiet rooms in the centre of Avignon, this is a convenient and well-priced base
    Sights nearby  -  The Palais des Papes, Pont Saint-Bénezet and the Rhone are less than 500 yards away
    Pet friendly

    An elegant 19th-century Provençal building on the main square in Avignon. Wood, wrought iron, seagrass and wicker combine to create comfortable chic rooms with a lovely relaxed ambiance. Boasting great views of the picturesque town centre, this is a convenient and well-priced stay. See More

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  • Le Prieuré, Avignon Villeneuve lez Avignon 38 rooms from £174

    Restaurant  -  Michelin starred with gastronomic cuisine from Fabien Fage
    Foodies
    Sights nearby  -  A few minutes from Avignon, a UNESCO World Heritage site
    Tennis  -  Tennis courts on the grounds
    Air conditioningTennisRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendly
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Relais & Chateaux, Michelin Travel

    A wonderful blend of historic and contemporary. The 14th century ivy clad former monastery was renovated in 2007 creating rooms with character and unpretentious luxury. Relax by the pool, break a sweat on the tennis court, and visit the Michelin starred restaurant in the stunning gardens. See More

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  • No 15 Avignon 5 rooms from £178

    Local exploring  -  Well placed for exploring Avignon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site whose historic centre can be easily explored on foot
    Romantic Break  -  Charming rustic-chic bedrooms, pretty garden with pool, river boat trips and wine tasting in this lovely city
    Wine tasting  -  Avignon is the capital of the Côtes du Rhône. Group or private tours are available
    Boutique  -  Chic design mixes fresh contemporary style with the building's original features
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenNo pets

    A chic B&B in the heart of historic Avignon. Bedrooms have large white bathrooms, pale wood floors, exposed brick walls and garden views. There's a charming garden, an outdoor pool and a sun terrace. A romantic stay with excellent staff. See More

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  • Le Mas de Capelou Avignon 9 rooms from £180

    Chic  -  Period architecture of the original farmhouse remain but there is a fresh modern look now that makes this a very chic stay
    Families  -  Ideal for a family holiday exploring Provence. Family rooms and suites sleep up to four and there's a heated pool on site
    Local exploring  -  The B&B is just 5 miles from central Avignon meaning you have a peaceful setting but easy access to the sites
    Self catering to rent  -  Self catering apartments sleep upto six people and come with fully equipped kitchens
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    Just 7km from Avignon centre, Le Mas de Capelou offers five rooms and suites plus four apartments which sleep from 2 to 6. A period exterior makes way to modern, chic interiors. There's a large outdoor swimming pool and many peaceful outdoor seating areas. A quiet countryside spot close to Avignon. See More

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  • Auberge de Cassagne Avignon (Le pontet) 43 rooms from £190

    Foodies  -  Restaurant by chef Philippe Boucher, vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Gigondas, Vacqueyras, and wine festivals.
    Spa breaks  -  Features eucalyptus steam room, chromotherapy shower, twin massage rooms all situated in the peaceful gardens
    Sights nearby  -  Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Gordes, Les Baux-de-Provence
    Local markets  -  Antique market in Isle sur la Sorgue every Sunday
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled access
    Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels

    A charming 5* hotel in a typical Provencal house. Elegant rooms feature floral prints, soft colours and all the mod cons. An outdoor pool, fragrant gardens, and an extensive spa. Outstanding gourmet cuisine and a lovely bar area. Close to Avignon, ideal for a relaxing weekend of culinary treats. See More

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  • Auberge de Noves Provence 23 rooms from £203

    Total relaxation  -  Peace and tranquility in 20 acres of Provençal parkland — perfect for those who want a quiet break to read and eat well
    Foodies  -  The long popular restaurant serves delicious regional cuisine — a real highlight of any stay
    Luxury  -  Expect discreet service, gourmet dining, and very good amenities at this luxury stay
    Active Holiday  -  Make the most out of the outdoor pool, tennis courts and bikes for hire
    Air conditioningTennisRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessParking

    This beautiful guesthouse has stunning traditional decor and an air of grandeur. Rooms maintain plenty of original features: huge sash windows, exposed wooden beams and stonework, terracotta tiles and much more. Cycle through rural Provence and sample some of its delicacies in the restaurant. See More

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  • Hotel d'Europe Avignon 39 rooms from £252

    Local exploring  -  Well positioned to explore Avignon's main attractions such as the Palais des Papes and Le Pont d'Avignon
    Foodies  -  La Vieille Fontaine has been awarded one Michelin star and offers contemporary regional cuisine
    Historic  -  A 16th century house and former residence of the Marquis of Graveson — this is a grand stay
    Wine tasting  -  A few km takes you out to Chateauneuf-du-Pape and its famous red wine cellars
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    A grand old hotel tucked away in a serene square in the heart of Avignon. Rooms are furnished traditionally and elegantly, fit for a king of bygone days, but with all the modern touches expected in the 21st century. La Vieille Fontaine adds to the regal appeal. See More

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  • La Divine Comedie Avignon 5 rooms from £317

    Hideaway  -  Boasts the largest private garden in Avignon, an island of verdant tranquility, in the heart of the medieval city centre
    Great walks  -  The city centre is magnificent, so spend the day just wandering around with lots of cafés and bistros to fuel up along the way!
    Sights nearby  -  The Palace of the Popes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Pont Saint-Bénézet are both a must
    Local markets  -  Peruse Les Halles Market for an authentic and local experience
    Air conditioningSpaSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A restored ancient mansion boasting the largest private garden in Avignon, right in the historic centre. Elegant suites are decorated with a choice selection of artworks and antiques but the hues are a cool steely grey and bathrooms modern. Boasting a pool and a mini-spa. Prepare to be delighted! See More

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  • La Mirande Avignon 21 rooms from £399

    Historic  -  The 14th-century building was originally a cardinal's residence and the original grandeur still very much remains
    Foodies  -  The gourmet restaurant offers a five-course tasting menu which uses regional and seasonal produce
    Families  -  With painting and art classes arranged for children, this is a surprisingly family friendly stay
    Local exploring  -  Couldn't be better placed, right by Palais des Papes and 200 yards from the banks of the Rhone
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  I Escape, Frommers, Kiwi Collection

    An immaculately decorated and furnished former Cardinal's mansion in the city center. The suites will transport you back to another time with parquet floors, bold wallpapers, and sumptuous beds. Sit out in the sculpture filled courtyard enjoying the Michelin-starred cuisine. Chic and sophisticated. See More

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