Palais des Papes

Le Palais des Papes, or Palace of the Popes, is one of the largest and most important Gothic buildings in Europe. It was built in the 14th century as a residence for pope Clement V, who didn't want to live in Rome.

The palace is beautifully preserved and almost completely open to the public. Although the leaflet promises a lot more than you get (beautiful frescoes! cultural events!), a visit is very rewarding. The audioguide gives a good look into the history of the palace and Avignon as a papal city, and makes that you see a lot more than without one.

If you are interested in medieval architecture, history or a beautiful view over Avignon, the palace is a good place to visit.

Cost: €9,50 without reduction, €7,50 with reduction (students, elderly, holders of a validated Avignon Pass, etc.)

Le Pont Saint-Bénezet, better known as Pont d'Avignon, has achieved world fame by a children's song. The bridge was built in the 12th century and the remaining part has survived some catastrophic floodings and battles. The original bridge consisted of 22 arches, but today only four of them remain, so the Pont Saint-Bénezet ends in the middle of nowhere!
Although the bridge IS very beautiful, they charge you with €4,- (or more) just to walk over it. My advice: just look at it.