As the setting for Louis Vuitton’s Cruise 2026 show, there’s much to enjoy in this historic walled city …
Avignon is one of the most culturally rich cities in the south of France, so it’s no wonder that designer Nicolas Ghesquiere chose the city as the setting for Louis Vuitton’s Cruise Show 2026, with the Palais des Papes as the impressive backdrop to the catwalk show. This gothic landmark, synonymous with the city, was originally built by Pope Clement V who made the city the centre of the Roman Catholic world for decades.
It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of many interesting architectural gems within the walled city. Louis Vuitton is known for its support of local heritage and community projects, and the fashion house is contributing to the funding of a lighting project for the Palais that involves illuminating the facades of the buildings facing the square including the cathedral, the Petit Palace, the Hotel des Monnaies and the Hotel Calvet de la Palin.
In addition to its history, Avignon has an arty reputation owing to its annual Avignon Theatre Festival in July that celebrates dance, music and theatre. Less formal is the Festival Off, during which performances spill out into the streets, adding to the buzz.
Having seen the famous bridge, le Pont d’Avignon and main square, the Place de l’Horloge, I’d also recommend the Place Pie and les Halles – a covered market with a hanging garden. Not far from there is the Place des Carmen that has popular flower and farmers’ markets on Saturday mornings, and a flea market on Sundays.
I love people watching from one of the cafés along the pretty Rue des Teinturiers, lined with majestic sycamore trees, which runs parallel to the Sorgue river (it has four waterwheels from which the street gets its name). This street has a boho vibe, making it popular with artists and musicians.
As a tip, the city has numerous pedestrian zones and one-way streets, so driving and parking can be problematic. If visiting or staying, it’s best to park outside the ramparts – for example, Parking des Italiens or on the Ile Piot – that have shuttle services during the summer.
This posh five star hotel is one of the oldest in Europe and is located in a former 16th-century house. It’s elegant without being pompous. The location is outstanding close to the Palais des Papes, and for food tourists its fine dining restaurant La Vieille Fontaine is creative and charming, spilling out onto a discreet courtyard. Don’t miss a stroll around the Doms Garden.
While the hotel overlooks the Palais des Papes and is close to all the major attractions, the location of La Mirande is much quieter than you might imagine. Set in a 14th-century former cardinal’s residence, it’s serene and stylish. Rooms are individually decorated in gorgeous prints and there are plenty of inspiring nooks and a garden in which to relax. In-house dining options include a Michelin-starred restaurant.
History buffs will love this hotel, set in a 17th-century former Jesuit seminary with a shady courtyard and rooftop pool. It has spacious, functional rooms and a cultural centre, which hosts regular activities. There’s also a restaurant and on-site parking – a rarity in the city. It also has a sister hotel, the Avignon Grand.
Having worked in Avignon, I know it can get crowded and very hot in summer. If you prefer a more tranquil base outside the city walls, try this beautifully renovated, laidback hotel is in the pretty village of Villeneuve-les-Avignon. As a family-owned hotel, service is friendly and there are plenty of charming rooms, as well as a lovely garden. Make sure to visit L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, especially if you love antiquing, for which the village is famous.
Set on a hillside, this hamlet-style hotel (previously a farm) just outside Avignon is surrounded by vineyards. It’s a great base from which to explore the Luberon and its national park or visit the region’s Lavender Museum. Rooms ace rustic minimalism, while the spa is a series of ‘pods’ set among trees where organic French brand On the Wild Side are used in treatments. Wellness is a key component of any stay here, so bring your activewear. A must-visit is the hillside village of Gordes where the views and restaurants are sublime.
For a quick overnight stay in Avignon, this boutique hotel punches above its three-star rating thanks to its location and affordability.
SEE MORE: An Insider’s Guide To Bordeaux In France
