Avignon: City Walking Tour With Popes Palace Entry

Avignon’s rich history and architectural splendor come alive on this captivating city walking tour. Visitors can enjoy the historic center, strolling through cobbled streets and discovering iconic landmarks. The highlight, though, is the majestic Palais des Papes – the largest Gothic palace in Europe. As guests explore its opulent halls, they’ll uncover the captivating story of the Papacy’s time in Avignon. But the tour doesn’t end there. A delightful wine tasting showcases the local Côtes du Rhône, providing a fitting finale to this enchanting Provençal experience.

Key Points

• This 3.5-hour walking tour allows visitors to explore Avignon’s historic center, including the Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• The tour includes a 1-hour leisurely stroll through Avignon’s charming cobbled streets, showcasing key landmarks like the Place de l’Horloge and Avignon Theater.
• Visitors can enjoy a 2-hour guided exploration of the Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in Europe and the former seat of the Papacy in the 14th century.
• The tour concludes with a glass of Côtes du Rhône wine, providing a delightful opportunity to experience the local culture and cuisine of Provence.
• Participants should wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection, and be aware of age and mobility restrictions, as well as prohibited items on the tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour is an activity labeled as an "Avignon City Walking Tour with Popes Palace Entry" that lasts approximately 3.5 hours.

It’s priced from $75.04 per person and is likely to sell out, so checking availability for start times is recommended.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour is conducted in English by a live guide.

It starts at Provence Reservation in Avignon and includes a 1-hour walk through the historic center, a 2-hour guided tour of the Palais des Papes, and ends with a glass of Côtes du Rhône wine.

Historic Center Exploration

After exploring the grandeur of the Palais des Papes, the walking tour shifts its focus to the historic center of Avignon.

Over the next hour, the guide leads the group on a leisurely stroll through the city’s cobbled streets, showcasing its significant landmarks:

1. The iconic Place de l’Horloge, the bustling town square surrounded by colorful buildings and cafes.

2. The grand Avignon Town Hall, a neoclassical masterpiece that serves as the city’s civic center.

3. The historic Avignon Theater, a 19th-century venue that has hosted countless performances over the centuries.

4. The winding alleyways and charming boutiques that embody Avignon’s timeless character.

Palais Des Papes: the Papal Palace

Dominating the city skyline, the Palais des Papes stands as the largest Gothic palace in Europe.

This iconic landmark was once the seat of the Papacy in the 14th century when the Catholic Church relocated from Rome to Avignon.

On the tour, visitors spend two hours exploring the grand halls, chapels, and intricate architectural details of this historic palace.

They’ll learn about the opulent lifestyle of the Avignon Popes and the political power struggles that unfolded within these walls.

The guided tour provides an in-depth look at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering insights into Avignon’s captivating past.

Cobbled Streets and Landmarks

Following the walking tour‘s start at Provence Reservation, the group embarks on a 1-hour stroll through Avignon’s historic city center.

During this immersive experience, visitors:

1. Wander the cobbled streets, admiring the charming architecture and quaint atmosphere.

2. Explore the bustling Place de l’Horloge, the city’s central square featuring the town hall and Théâtre Municipal.

3. Admire the ornate façade of the Palais de Justice, the former seat of the Papal court.

4. Marvel at the impressive Pont d’Avignon, the iconic bridge immortalized in the traditional French song.

The tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Avignon’s rich history and iconic landmarks.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Côtes Du Rhône Wine Tasting

As the walking tour through Avignon’s historic center comes to a close, visitors get the chance to savor a glass of Côtes du Rhône wine.

This local red wine, produced in the Rhône Valley, is the perfect accompaniment to the tour’s conclusion. Guests can sip and savor the full-bodied, fruit-forward flavors while reflecting on the rich history they’ve just explored.

The wine tasting provides a delightful way to end the experience, allowing travelers to appreciate the local culture and cuisine of the Provence region.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The Avignon Walking Tour includes several key features to enhance the overall experience. The tour is led by a knowledgeable live guide who provides valuable insights into the city’s rich history.

The Avignon Walking Tour is led by a knowledgeable live guide who provides valuable insights into the city’s rich history.

Included in the tour is entry to the Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in Europe. Guests will also enjoy a complimentary glass of the renowned Côtes du Rhône wine at the end of the tour.

However, the tour doesn’t include:

1. Hotel pickup or drop-off

2. Meals or personal expenses

3. Accommodations

4. Transportation to the starting location

Important Considerations

When considering the Avignon Walking Tour, there are several important factors to keep in mind.

First, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 4 or individuals with mobility issues. Participants should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a water bottle.

To ensure an enjoyable experience, certain items aren’t allowed, like pets, oversized luggage, smoking, large bags, and open-toed shoes.

Lastly, this popular tour is likely to sell out, so it’s best to check availability and book in advance.

Traveler Feedback and Ratings

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Avignon Walking Tour, with an impressive 4.7 out of 5 rating based on 131 reviews.

Highlights include:

1. Guides’ knowledge and passion, earning a 4.2/5 rating.

2. Excellent value for money, with a 4.5/5 rating.

3. Detailed explanations on the Papacy’s move to Avignon.

4. Commendations for guides’ thoroughness and expertise on Avignon and Provence.

Reviewers from Canada, the USA, and France consistently praised the tour’s engaging and informative nature, cementing its reputation as a must-do activity for visitors to the historic city of Avignon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code, but comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and sun protection are recommended. Open-toed shoes are not allowed for safety reasons. Travelers should dress appropriately for the weather and walking.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

The tour guidelines do not permit bringing your own food or drinks. Personal items like water, snacks, and meals are not allowed during the walking tour and visit to the Popes Palace. You’ll have to purchase any refreshments separately.

Do I Need to Book in Advance or Can I Join on the Day?

The tour is likely to sell out, so it’s recommended to book in advance to secure a spot. You can check availability for starting times and purchase tickets prior to the tour date.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as the itinerary involves extensive walking through cobbled streets and stairs. Wheelchair access is not provided for this tour.

Can I Take Photos Inside the Palais Des Papes?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the Palais des Papes, subject to any specific rules or restrictions that may be in place at the time of the visit. However, flash photography may not be permitted.

Recap

The Avignon City Walking Tour with Popes Palace Entry offers visitors an immersive experience in the historic heart of Avignon. Guests will explore the city’s iconic landmarks, marvel at the grandeur of the Palais des Papes, and savor the local flavors of Provence with a Côtes du Rhône wine tasting. This comprehensive tour provides an engaging and insightful glimpse into Avignon’s rich cultural heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: