Avignon and the Papal Palace

For most of the fourteenth century the popes ruled not from Rome but from Avignon in Provence, and they built here the Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in Europe, a vast fortress of soaring stone halls. A UNESCO site, the walled city around it and the famous Pont d'Avignon, the half-bridge over the Rhone of the children's song, complete a remarkable ensemble.

What you actually see

• The Palais des Papes - the mighty Gothic fortress-palace of the popes.
• The Pont d'Avignon - the famous ruined half-bridge over the Rhone.
• The walled city - the ramparts and lanes of the old town.
• The Rocher des Doms - the garden hill with a view over the river.

When to go

Spring to autumn for mild weather; July brings the famous Avignon theatre festival, which fills the city. A clear day suits the river and ramparts.

Honest expectations

The vast palace is rather bare inside, a Gothic fortress more than a furnished home, so the scale and history are the draw. It is busy, especially during the July festival when rooms are scarce. The famous bridge is a short ruined stub, more song than span.

Nearby

The Pont du Gard is nearby; the wine villages and lavender of Provence spread around.