Barbi

This magnificent city with a population of 90 000 and a famous bridge is one of the few in France to have retained its ramparts. It is famous for its festival in July, many museums, university and opera house.

The Palais des Papes, part of the UNESCO World Heritage, was begun in 1335, and took less than 20 years to complete. The palace was home to just five popes over a period of 70 years. It contains 15,000 square metres of living space. Every year, more than 560,000 people visit the Palace which is among the 10 most frequently-visited monuments in France.

During the Festival d’Avignon, created by Jean Vilar in 1947, performances are given in the Palace Honour Courtyard throughout the month of July. Tasters of the festival performances are to be had in many streets during the first three weeks of July.

The Pont Saint Bénézet (known from the song 'Sous le pont d'Avignon') was built in the 12th century but was often damaged by the flood waters of the Rhone. It was abandoned in the 17th century (four arches remain) and is now part of the UNESCO world heritage. 4,50€ is charged to visit the remains.

The independent cinema Utopia shows a selection of films, always in original, undubbed versions, in two locations in Avignon.

Avignon is about 15 minutes drive from the house. Go to the info page for a map of how to get there.

For more information about the city of Avignon, visit the tourist information website.

Naka
Japonese restaurant, very classy but not too expensive

4 place de la Principale
84000 Avignon
04 90 82 15 70

For more info, visit Naka on tripadvisor

Les Baguettes d’Or
A very cheap and cheerful Asian restaurant, you can eat for as little as 4€

41 rue Saraillerie
84000 Avignon
04 90 86 33 79

For more info, visit Les Baguettes d'Or on tripadvisor

La Princière
Lovely little café with beautiful, handmade ice creams and sorbets

Place des Corps Saints
84000 Avignon
09 80 37 58 06

For more info, visit La Princière on tripadvisor