Avignon Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour

Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Ensemble which is well preserved inside the formidable walls of Avignon, the charming medieval town nestling on the rock hills on the left bank of the majestic river Rhône, including the atmospheric Clock Square which hosts the July Avignon festival - one of the world's largest carnivals for performing arts, the 14th-century Saint Peter Basilica – an outstanding example of the unique Provencal Gothic style, the Palace of the Popes - the biggest Gothic palace worldwide and also the largest medieval fortress in Europe, the engineering gem of the 12th-century Saint-Bénezet Bridge - one of the most important pilgrimage routes between Italy and Spain in the Middle Ages, and last but not least the spectacular Garden of the Doms high above the city providing breathtaking panoramic vistas.

1. 1

   Place de l'Horloge

   15 min

   At the start of the tour, get a feel of Avignon’s vibrant culture at its busy hub of activity, the Clock Square. Taking its name from the 15th-century clock tower, the atmospheric square that hosts the July Avignon festival, one of the world's largest festivals, is an attractive blend between the majestic 19th-century architecture of Opéra Grand Theater and City Hall and the dynamic ambiance of delightful arcade cafes and restaurants.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   10 min

   Continue to pass by the 14th-century Saint Peter Basilica, Avignon’s most beautiful church, to marvel at its intricate façade in the unique Provencal Gothic style, characterized by ornate details in the shape of flames.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   30 min

   The next destination is the Palace of the Popes, one of the most emblematic icons of the city giving a precious glimpse into the eventful history of the Roman Catholic papacy. The seat of Western Christianity where 9 popes resided during the 14th century is the biggest Gothic palace worldwide, and also the largest medieval fortress in Europe with formidable crenellated walls and towers.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   25 min

   Right next to the palace is the 12th-century Cathedral of Our Lady of Doms. Built in the simplistic Romanesque style, the church whose most prominent feature is a gilded statue of the Virgin Mary atop its looming bell tower creates an interesting contrast to the majestic adjacent fortress.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   Pass by

   Proceed to walk through Rhone Gate, one of the most beautiful entrances of Avignon walls which leads you to the beautiful Saint-Bénezet Bridge, resting peacefully on the Rhône River outside the city walls. The 5-kilometer ramparts used to be equipped with moats, drawbridge towers, and iron-studded wooden gates to protect the city from not only armed intrusions but regular floods.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   15 min

   The 12th-century bridge once linking the two banks of the vast Rhône River was a true feat of engineering and one of the most important pilgrimage routes between Italy and Spain in the Middle Ages. Devastated many times by nature and men, only four of its twenty-two arches and the antique tiny Saint-Nicolas Chapel still stand proudly today as a moving testimony to the rich history of Avignon.

7. 7

   Stop 7

   25 min

   At the end of the tour, follow the rock staircase built into the splendid Rock Tower of the walls, ascending to the top of the highest rock in the city, where the well-shading Garden of the Doms stands and overlooks the Rhone plains and Mount Ventoux. Numerous lush trees, exquisite sculptures, fountains, and fish pools frequented by swans and ducks make the breezy green space an ideal spot for pleasant strolls, refreshing breaks in lovely cafes, and savoring breathtaking panoramic views.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.