Choose from 19 Fun Things to Do in Avignon
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Espace Van Gogh
The Provençal town of Arles sits on the banks of the River Rhône southwest of Avignon and is placed firmly on the tourist trail for its UNESCO-listed Roman ruins, Romanesque cathedral, one of the biggest Saturday produce markets in France and for being the latter-day home of tortured artist Vincent Van Gogh. He arrived in Arles in February 1888 and fell in love with both the town and its rural environs, painting its historic center and spectacular landscapes repeatedly. Some of his most famous works were among the 180 he produced during this time, including Starry Night, several versions of The Sunflowers and The Café Terrace on the Place du Forum, Arles, at Night. Sadly this prolific period did not continue and he soon succumbed to mental illness; following a fracas with his fellow artist Paul Gauguin on Dec. 24, 1888, Van Gogh lopped off his ear and was hospitalized in the 16th-century Hôtel-Dieu-Saint-Espirit. By May 1889, he was recuperating in the Monastère St Paul-de-Mausole in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, before he eventually died in Auvers-sur-Oise in July 1890.
During his time at the Hôtel-Dieu-Saint-Espirit, Van Gogh painted its beautiful courtyard twice; it has now been restored to match the layout seen in his masterly Garden of the Hospital in Arles and is a place of quiet contemplation for visitors. Although there are no original Van Goghs displayed here, there are frequent art exhibitions in the cloisters and a souvenir shop selling his prints. The gardens form part of a Van Gogh-themed walking tour of Arles, which links all the places he made famous in his paintings.
Practical Info
Place du Docteur Félix Rey, Arles. Admission free at any time. Arles is 45 minutes’ drive southwest of Avignon.
Address: Place du Docteur Félix Rey, Arles, France
From $ 45
Abbey of Montmajour
Provence’s oldest abbey was founded in the 10th century by Benedictine monks and built on what was then a swampy island in the middle of the River Rhône north-east of the UNESCO-listed city of Arles.
The monks of Montmajour enjoyed several centuries of wealth, with the abbey thriving thanks to pilgrims who visited to see a fragment of the True Cross displayed in the Chapel of the Holy Cross. By the end of the 14th century, plague and the Hundred Years War affected the fortunes of the monastery; a defensive watchtower and fortified walls were added but it fell into disrepute. In 1639 its fortunes were briefly revived by an influx of new monks but the French Revolution in the 1790s saw Montmajour abandoned and derelict.
Today the restored ruins include the medieval monastery and its neo-classical counterpart, built in the 17th century; art exhibitions are occasionally held in the enormous, barn-like church. St Peter’s Chapel is flanked by the monk’s cemetery, where medieval graves were carved directly into the rock. The 12th-century Chapel of the Holy Cross stands in a field just outside the monastery walls and there are panoramic views across the rolling Provençal countryside from the top of the defence tower; at 30 m (98.5 ft) high, it is possible to see the foothills of the Alps – sometime Arles resident Vincent van Gogh visited Montmajour often to enjoy this view.
Practical Info
Route de Fontvieille, Arles. Open Apr–June daily 9.30am–6pm; Jul–Sept daily 10am–6.30pm; Oct–Mar Tue–Sun 10am–5pm. Admission adults €7.50, concessions students €6, free for under 18s and the first Sunday from January to March plus November and December. Montmajour is five km (three miles) north of Arles.
Address: Route de Fontvieille, Arles 13200, France
Hours: Daily April-June 9:30am-6pm, Daily Jul-Sept 10am-6:30pm, Tue-Sun Oct-March 10am-5pm
Admission: Adults €7.50, Students €6, 17 & Younger Free
From $ 7
Roussillon
While Provence is more a state of mind than a place – you can't actually point to Provence on a map – the hilltop village of Roussillon is exactly what visitors think of when they say they want to visit Provence. Picturesque, compact, colorful and with astounding views of the countryside, this village in the Vaucluse couldn't be more charmingly Provençal if it tried.
The almost candy-like colors of the buildings come from the surrounding earth; Roussillon lies on one of the largest ocre deposits in the world and has prehistoric origins. After a stroll around the village, take the Giants' Causeway (Sentier des Ocres), a cliffside trail loop that features the bright orange sands and plenty of forest to explore.
Practical Info
Roussillon is in the Vaucluse départment of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur Region, about an hour east of Avignon. Its hilltop location means there are no trains that arrive there; cars are best. There is parking outside the village, which is pedestrian-friendly. The Giants' Causeway trail costs 2 euro per person to enter.
Address: Roussillon, France
From $ 45
Nimes
Although Nimes is in the Languedoc Region, its close proximity to Provence's Avignon make it a natural day trip destination – particularly if you're following the trail of Roman history that is so prevalent in the South of France. And what a history it has!
It's a history that stretches back to pre-Roman times, with various evidence of Bronze Age settlements. But with the Romans came more permanent colonization; soldiers were often given tracts of land in the area as payment for battles. The original Roman gates are still there, as is the Colosseum-style arena. Check the city's entertainment schedule before visiting, and catch a concert inside – something you can't do in Rome!
Throughout the city are various ruins that have been preserved as best as possible, but the jewel of Nimes is without a doubt the temple Maison Carrée. Built just before the turn of the millennium, its near-perfect condition makes it one of the finest examples of Roman architecture found anywhere in the world. Thomas Jefferson was so taken with it, in fact, that he has the statehouse in Virginia built in its likeness!
Today Nimes is a fairly large and bustling city, with great restaurants and gorgeous parks and other public green spaces. It's only about 45 minutes from Avignon, and on the way you can stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pont du Gard, to soak in even more Roman architecture and history!
Address: Nimes, France
From $ 45
Uzes
If you're traveling through western Provence, no doubt you're going to visit the Pont du Gard, a Roman-era aqueduct that is truly worth seeing. But many see it as simply a monument to Roman times, and lose its context. And that's where a visit to Uzès can help. Uzès, located in the eastern part of Languedoc, was the starting point of the original aqueduct, and carried water via the Pont du Gard to nearby Nimes!
But Uzès is not only a remnant of the Roman era. It also had a major role in royal French history, with the Duke of Uzès being one of the most important titles in the land. In fact, most of the medieval sites and architecture in Uzès is built atop their Roman predecessors, including a first-century temple – showing that when it came the Uzès, they weren't kidding about their display of power.
Today the main draw of Uzès, at least as far as locals are concerned, is its fantastic Saturday market at the Place aux Herbes. After strolling through and browsing vendors' wares, you can take a load off at one of the many cafes along the square – even in inclement weather, as its ancient archways now cover dozens of tables for hungry and thirsty patrons.
But even if you can't be in Uzès on Saturday, there's still a ton of shopping to be had. From truffles to clothing to gifts, it's where to pick up your treats to bring back home. And if you're traveling with the family, your kids will flip out at the HARIBO Museum, known in French as the “Musée du Bonbon.” Just don't blame us for the ensuing sugar rush!
Address: Uzes, France
From $ 45
Senanque Abbey
The 12th-century Sénanque Abbey, which to this day is the home and worshiping place of Cistercian monks, has no great history. There are no iconic frescoes or statues to see, and while pretty, it isn't especially notable architecturally. So why is it on every visitor's must-see list when visiting Provence?
One word: lavender. The monks here grow, harvest and process lavender from the surrounding fields, which means that come June visitors have a front-row seat to one of the most gorgeous photo ops of all time. Whether passing by in a car or stopping to smell the flowers, the Sénanque Abbey, near Gordes, is a summertime treat.
Practical Info
Because Sénanque is a working abbey, there are strict requirements for entry. Knees and shoulders must be covered, and once inside, silence is mandatory. Visiting times are only from 9:45 to 11 a.m., but not in winter, on Sundays or on religious holidays. Entrance is also barred during the many services throughout the day. However, the bookshop is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday from 2 to 6 p.m., also in winter and on religious holidays.
Address: Gordes, France
Hours: 9:45-11 a.m.; closed in winter, on Sundays, during services and on religious holidays
From $ 64
Tavel
Just as Champagne is the king of France’s sparkling wines, Tavel is the birthplace of French rosés; located just northwest of Avignon alongside the River Rhône, the village has been producing dry rosé wines for centuries. At their best when drunk chilled and accompanying food, the wines of Tavel are best enjoyed when young but the best vintages also age reasonably well.
The Grenache, Picpoul, Syrah and Clairette grapes that go into Tavel’s rosé production thrive in the hot, sunny and dry climate as well as the sandy soils of the region; of late prices have soared as the wine has grown in popularity. Wines have been produced around Tavel since the fifth century BC, when the Greeks planted the first vines; in the 14th century, the rosés were a particular favorite of Pope Innocent VI and the region was awarded AOC (appellation d’origine controlee) status in 1937. Today the village of Tavel is a pretty, sandstone village sprawling downhill from its half-ruined chateau, surrounded by vines planted in neat rows leading off to the horizon. Easy to explore on foot, it has many quiet corners filled with fountains and monuments as well as laid-back bars in which to taste the local wines.
Practical Info
Tavel is 20 minutes northwest of Avignon and is best accessed by taxi or car. A visit to the rosé wineries of Tavel can easily be combined with tastings at the great red-producing vignerons of Châteauneuf-du-Pape on the opposite side of the Rhône.
Address: Tavel, France
From $ 45
Gordes
When you stand at the precipice of the precariously perched Gordes in Provence and look into the valley below, you'll see a road leading away towards Apt. See it? That road is thousands of years old, built by the Romans. So in case the town itself doesn't knock your socks off – and if it doesn't, check your pulse – then the sight of that road should make you realize just how much history there is in this area of France.
And the history of Gordes doesn't stop with the Romans; from fortifications against Arabs in the first millennium to the 12th century Sénanque Abbey surrounded by lavender to its eventual addition as a French royal provence in the Middle Ages and a Resistance stronghold during WWII, this is not your run-of-the-mill charming village.
Today Gordes is one of those “hidden gem” towns, often overlooked for the more popular Avignon nearby. But between Peter Mayle's mention of it in his books as well as being a popular location for films, it's coming into its own and welcomes visitors with open arms. Helping with its hospitality is the fact that it holds the official classification of being one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France; its residents are justly proud of the title, and much care has been taken to accommodate visitors without destroying what makes it so special.
With so much to see and do in the area, it's an easy visit up to Gordes (as long as you aren't squeamish on winding roads). It shouldn't take you any longer than 45 minutes to get there from Avignon; then you can head back down to Cavaillon to taste the famous local melon that bears its name!
Address: Gordes, France
From $ 45
St Benezet Bridge (Pont d'Avignon)
The St. Benezet Bridge - known as the Pont d’Avignon - is a famous bridge located in Avignon. The 12th century bridge originally spanned 900 m (2,950ft) across the Rhône River. The bridge collapsed frequently and was reconstructed multiple times. Today, only 4 of the original 22 arches remain complete.
The inception of the St. Benezet Bridge centers around a local shepherd boy of the same name who was told by an angel to construct the bridge. He proved his divine inspiration to the town and wealthy benefactors by lifting a large stone block. The bridge also served as a place of worship for Rhône boatmen until it became so unsteady it was deemed dangerous. The bridge is also historically significant in that was an important strategic river crossing.
Come visit the Pont d'Avignon on that now spans less than half the Rhône River to get a taste of medieval France. It is a popular vantage point to admire Avignon and the river.
Address: Rue Ferruce, Avignon 84000, France
Hours: 9am-9pm Jul, 9:00-8pm Aug-Sep; 9am-7pm mid-Mar-Jun & Oct, 9.30am-5.45pm Nov-mid-Mar
From $ 45
Eglise St-Trophime
The Eglise St-Trophime is a masterpiece of 12th-century Romanesque architecture in the Provençal city of Arles, which is located on the banks of the River Rhône and on the doorstep of the wild, marshy Camargue. Along with the city’s many Roman remains, the church was UNESCO World Heritage-listed in 1981; it was constructed from pale-hued stone in the 11th and 12th centuries and dedicated to Trophime, who was an early bishop of Arles and later its patron saint.
Its magnificent, colonnaded Romanesque portal was restored in the late 20th century; its carvings depict the Last Judgment, with Christ overseeing anguished sinners being dragged down into Hell and the righteous ascending to Heaven. Statues of lions, the Apostles and other saints guard the entrance to the church, which is austere and symmetrical on the inside. The adjoining cloisters surround a tranquil garden and are a combination of Romanesque and late- Gothic architecture, with ornate columns and pillars covered with sculptures of biblical scenes and figures of saints.
The church’s chapter house has a long medieval hall with a vaulted ceiling and displays some Gobelin tapestries alongside occasional temporary exhibitions.
Practical Info
12 rue du Cloître, Arles. Church open daily 8.30am–6.30pm. Cloister: Nov–Feb daily 10am–5pm; Mar–Apr, Oct: daily 9am–6pm; May-Sept 9am–7pm. Admission is free.
Address: 12 Rue du Cloître, Arles 13200, France
Hours: Daily 8:30am-6:30pm
From $ 127
Triumphal Arch
Ranking among France’s most impressive Roman monuments, the grand Triumphal Arch of Orange forms the centerpiece of the ancient city, standing alongside the equally magnificent Roman Theatre. Part of the Orange UNESCO World Heritage site, the arch was built on the Via Agrippa trade road, between A.D. 10 and 25, and dedicated to Emperor Tiberius in celebration of his Rhineland victories.
The grand monument towers over 20-meters high and is renowned for its elaborate reliefs and triple arches. Painstakingly restored in 2009, the arch now serves not only as one of Orange’s most popular tourist attractions and navigational landmarks, but as one of the oldest and largest monuments of its kind from the Gallo-Roman period.
Practical Info
The Triumphal Arch is located close to the Roman Theatre in Orange.
Address: Avenue de l'Arc de Triomphe, Orange 84100, France
From $ 79
Pont de Gau Ornithological Park (Parc Ornithologique du Pont de Gau)
Known as one of the best spots to birdwatch in France, the Pont de Gau Ornithological Park is home to a variety of bird species including hundreds of pink flamingos. Spread out across 150 acres, a four-mile trail through its salt marshes, lakes, and ponds allows for countless opportunities to see birds in their natural habitat.
The park also cares for sick and injured birds and promotes conservation. Hundreds of herons, storks, egrets, and others are nursed and then released back into the wild. The area lagoons are scenic, especially in the summer and winter when the flocks of flamingos particularly active. Trails wind through the Camargue wilderness, allowing for closeups of the area's landscape as well as wildlife. There’s also a shorter path loop that is suitable for children. Pont de Gau is an easy day trip from neighboring Avignon.
Practical Info
The Pont de Gau park is located just inland from Saintes Maries de la Mer in Provence. The grounds can be explored either with a guide or on your own. Trail maps are available at the visitors center.
Address: RD 570 Lieu dit Pont de Gau, Les Saintes-Marie de la Mer, Provence, France
Hours: 10AM–6PM
Admission: €7.50
From $ 93
Aigues-Mortes
In the Petite Camargue region in southern France, the best way to see the medieval town of Aigues-Mortes is from its medieval ramparts. On a wander atop the city walls, you can see right across the ancient town, once filled with knights and crusaders during the 12th-century reign of Louis IX. Saint Louis ordered the ramparts so that his French kingdom could have a Mediterranean marina that would give them passage to the Middle East. Make sure to check out the famous Constance Tower while you’re in town. Built under the orders of Louis in 1242, it’s the most impressive of the 20 imposing towers dotted around the city walls.
Down at street level, a stroll along Aigues-Mortes' lively medieval streets is a popular pastime. While you’re here, try the local Fougasse pastry, which can be savory or sweetened with sugar and orange blossom. If you walk 15 minutes away from town, you'll run into the local salt works, a major part of the town's history, and their pink salt lakes.
Practical Info
The train journey from Nimes to Aigues-Mortes is about an hour long. Admission to the Constance Tower is 10 euros, and inside there is an exhibition about the history of the tower as well as regular temporary exhibitions.
Address: Aigues-Mortes, France
From $ 127
Baux de Provence
Les Baux-de-Provence is a charming town in the Provence region, and whose name refers to its location: in Provençal, a baou is a rocky spur. Baux-de-Provence has a fantastic position amidst the Alpilles mountains, and is considered to be one of the most beautiful villages in France.
The stunning location is set atop a rocky formation complete with a ruined vast fortress. Baux-de-Provence has a rich history: in the middle ages, Cardinal Richelieu ordered the demolition of the castle because the village housed protestant rebels. The village is also the site where the aluminium ore Bauxite which was first discovered in 1821 by geologist Pierre Berthier, and as such the ore bears its name.
Practical info
Nowadays, Baux-de-Provence is mostly a tourist town. However, do not let that detract you from paying the village a visit. It truly is one of the most picturesque locations in Europe. Located about 48 kilometers (30 miles) south of Avignon, this is a-40 minute car trip.
Address: Baux-de-Provence 13520, France
From $ 168
Les Saintes Maries de la Mer
Surrounded by golden beaches in the spot where the Rhône River meets the Mediterranean Sea sits the whitewashed town of Saintes Maries de la Mer. As the capital of the Camargue region in the south of France, Saintes-Maries is a popular summertime destination made famous by the imposing Church of the Saintes Maries de la Mer. Built as both fortress and refuge between the ninth and 12th century, its grand Romanesque steeple can be seen from miles away.
A 20th-century literary and artistic haven beloved by the likes of Hemingway and Picasso, Saintes-Maries has seen everyone from the Romans to the Vikings, Van Gogh to Bob Dylan. Today its narrow, winding streets and lively French restaurants bustle with summertime action.
Saintes-Maries is also a popular visit among pilgrims. Why? It’s all in the name. French for “Saint Maries of the Sea,” this is said to be where the Virgin Mary’s sister, Marie-Jacobe, and John the Baptist’s mother, Marie-Salone, washed up with their servant Sarah when they all fled from the Holy Land in a rudderless boat. In celebration, every May there is a lively Roma procession dedicated to Sarah, patron saint of the gypsies, and in October the two Maries get their own parade.
Practical Info
To get to Saintes-Marie you can take the 30-minute bus ride from Arles, 24 miles (38 km) north.
Address: Les Saintes Maries de la Mer, France
From $ 81
Rhône River
The Rhône River starts in the Swiss Alps, ends in the Mediterranean, and for most of the 500 miles in between there is a wealth of commerce, agriculture and activities that make southeastern France so notable. First are the historic cities on its banks–Lyon, Avignon and Arles are just a few. Also along the banks of the Rhône, or the “Cotes du Rhône” as the French say, is the eponymous wine that oenophiles swoon over.
In fact, it is the Rhône that gives the surrounding valley the proper terroir for wine; the first vines were grown here in Greek and Roman times and the tradition continues today. The vineyards of the region are visited by those looking for fair weather in addition to a unique wine experience.
Practical Info
The Rhône River stretches for 505 miles from Switzerland all the way down through southeastern France and out to the Mediterranean Sea.
Address: France
From $ 79
Palace of the Popes (Palais des Papes)
The largest Gothic palace in the world, Avignon’s Palace of the Popes (Palais des Papes) was home to the heads of the Roman Catholic Church in the 14th century. Visitors can tour the grand rooms, landscaped gardens, and secret passages used by members of the clergy, and see special exhibitions and concerts held at the palace.
The Basics
The seat of the Roman Catholic Church moved from Rome to Avignon in the South of France in 1305, under the orders of Pope Clement V. Some 30 years later, construction of a huge papal palace began under Pope Benedict XII, on the site of the former Bishop’s Palace. The enormous scale of the fortified building can only really be appreciated in person. The interiors were equally grand, decorated with rich tapestries, frescoes, and carved wooden ceilings.
In later years, the palace served as a military barracks for Napoleon’s army, a prison, and even used as stables. It was restored as a museum in 1906. Highlights of the construction include the 170-foot-long (52 meter) Grand Chapel, and the central courtyard, which now plays host to theater and music performances. The palace draws visitors from all over the world who come to see the palace, often as part of a guided tour. Tours often combine the museum with visits to the nearby Chateauneuf-du-Pape winery and Provence.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entry to the palace is via paid ticket.
- Children under 8 enter for free.
- An interactive Histopad guide device is included in the admission price.
- Prebook a guided tour to skip the entry line.
- The palace is not suitable for wheelchair users.
- Visitors can stop for a drink at the rooftop cafe.
How to Get There
The palace is located in central Avignon and is accessible on foot or as part of a walking tour from other central locations, including the St. Benezet bridge. Guided tours with transport included depart from towns including Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, and Paris.
When to Get There
The Palais des Papes is open every day of the year. Most people spend around two hours exploring the museum. Opening hours are seasonal: From April to June, it is open 9am–7pm. In July, 9am–8pm. In August, 9am–8:30pm. From September to February, 9:30am–5:45pm. In March, from 9am–6:30pm. Last entry is one hour before closing.
Experience the Avignon Jazz Festival
For one week every summer, the town of Avignon comes alive to the sound of jazz music. The Avignon Jazz Festival has operated since 1992 and welcomes some of the top names in jazz music to the Provencal city. Restaurants and cafes fill with music enthusiasts and there’s a celebratory atmosphere that all visitors will enjoy.
Address: 6, rue Pente Rapide, Avignon 84000, France
Admission: Varies
From $ 64
Pont du Gard
Reaching a height of almost 160 feet (49 meters), the three-tiered Pont du Gard bridge was part of a 31-mile (50-kilometer) Roman aqueduct network that carried water from a source at Eure to bathhouses, fountains, and patrician villas in Nîmes. Constructed in the first century, the ancient engineering marvel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Basics
Visitors can prebook an admission ticket to the Pont du Gard site. Tickets gives access to the first level of the bridge; a museum; the family-oriented Ludo Children’s Center; the open-air Mémoires de Garrigue trail, which covers local agricultural history; and a cinema that screens a short film on the Pont du Gard. Upgrade with the Pass Aqueduct to join a guided tour of the top level of the bridge too.
Many travelers come to the bridge during guided day tours from Avignon, Arles, Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, and even Paris. Day tours typically combine a visit to the Pont du Gard with stops at Avignon, Uzès, or Nîmes, or at picturesque Provence villages such as Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Les Baux-de-Provence, Gordes, and Roussillon. Some day tours to Pont du Gard include wine-tasting sessions in Côtes du Rhône or Provence.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Pont du Gard is a must for history enthusiasts.
- Wear comfortable shoes; you’ll spend a lot of time on your feet as you explore the site.
- Bring a swimsuit so you can paddle, sunbathe, and even canoe in the Gardon river.
- With flat paths and adapted buildings, much of the Pont du Gard complex is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Pont du Gard is situated between Remoulins and Vers-Pont-du-Gard, about 13.5 miles (22 kilometers) from Nîmes and 15.5 miles (25 kilometers) from Avignon. High-speed TGV trains connect Paris to both Nîmes and Avignon in less than 3 hours. From Avignon, take the A15 bus to the Pont du Gard site. From Nîmes, take the B21 bus.
When to Get There
June, July, and August are usually the driest months, making them a good time to visit the site, much of which is in the open air. On select evenings in June, the bridge is the setting for the Les Féeries du Pont sound and light show. The summer months are also peak visitor season. Tourist numbers begin to wane in September.
Best Views of the Pont du Gard
While you will have excellent views of the river from the bridge, the best views of the Pont du Gard itself are from the banks and the hillsides surrounding the river. Follow the 2.1-mile (3.5-kilometer) Aqueduct Trail for some of the best lookouts and photo opportunities.
Address: France
From $ 69
Camargue
Located in southwest Provence, the Camargue is one of France’s wildest and most scenic landscapes. Protected as a regional natural park, the expanse of wetlands, beaches, salt pans, and rice paddies is known for its herds of white Camargue horses and Camargue bulls, all tended to by local gardians (cowboys).
The Basics
Most visitors choose to explore the Camargue on a day trip from towns like Aix-en-Provence or Avignon, or on a shore excursion from the Mediterranean port of Marseille. A Camargue tour typically takes in regional highlights such as the Camargue capital of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, the medieval port town of Aigues Mortes, the seaside resort of Le Grau-du-Roi, and the Provencal village of Arles, known for its connections with Van Gogh. The UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and visitors can also enjoy a cruise along the Petit Rhône river, a canoeing excursion around the marshes, or an off-road jeep tour along the coast.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring mosquito repellent—the Camargue wetlands are known for their mosquitoes, especially during in summer and fall.
- Tourist information offices in Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and Aigues-Mortes provide detailed maps of the Parc Naturel de Camargue.
- Much of the Camargue is only accessible by 4WD vehicle or on horseback.
How to Get There
The Camargue is located along France’s Mediterranean coast between Montpellier and Marseille. Public transport to the Camargue is limited, and most visitors opt to explore the region either by private vehicle or as part of a guided tour. It’s about a one-hour drive from Avignon to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, and the closest international airport is in Nîmes.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit the Camargue is between March and October, the season of the jeu taurin (non-violent bullfighting), when many area villages host traditional festivals and races. During peak summer season (July and August), temperatures can reach over 86°F (30°C) and mosquitoes can be a pain, so plan outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon, when it’s cooler.
Wildlife Watching in the Camargue
In addition to the famous white horses and black bulls, the Camargue is home to some of France’s most diverse bird life, with more than 400 different species. At Pont de Gau Ornithological Park, a top destination for bird watching, you might also spot egrets, ibises, kingfishers, goldcrests, and birds of prey, as well as ducks, swans, and some of the region’s 10,000-plus flamingos.
Address: Provence, France
From $ 81