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Avignon
A city of history and sights, Avignon, also called “The City of Popes”, leaves an impression on those who visit it. A strategic capital of the Rhône valley, the city has world famous treasures such as the Pope’s Palace, the majestic “fortress palace” or the Avignon Bridge, symbol of the city that inspired the famous song. But Avignon is also the live show capital with its theatre festival that attracts a huge crowd every year. Well sheltered behind the superbly preserved ramparts, the charm of the ancient alleyways, little squares or the gardens of this very elegant city leave you with an unforgettable memory…
To discover, to understand, to wonder, and enjoy oneself, to marvel…So many entertaining opportunities to be enjoyed by the WHOLE FAMILY and which can be reached from your hotel in Avignon.
Novotel Avignon Nord
Novotel Avignon Sud
4
Destroyed and reconstructed several times before being swept away by the Rhône flood in 1660, today there are only four of the twenty-two arches left of the famous Avignon Bridge. Originally it was over 900 m.
1947
Every month in July the Avignon Festival takes place, invented over fifty years ago by Jean Vilar. An imperative and magical visit for all theatre lovers.
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The number of sovereigns who have inherited and enriched, over time, the magnificent Pope’s Palace, a grandiose architectural work that dominates the Rhône valley.
Museums & Exhibitions
Saint Bénezet Bridge
A family walk on the bridge is imperative when you visit Avignon. As well as the legend behind its construction, its history, its role in the Rhône and on the economic rapid development of the city, a large part is devoted to the bridge song. This area, which is particularly interactive, will please both young and old. And thanks to an original special effects based attraction, budding singers can start singing the famous melody at a beat of their choice, video clip style. Sur le Pont d’Avignon, they sing it there too!
6, rue Pente Rapide, Charles Ansidei, Avignon– Tel. : (+33) 4 90 27 51 16
Every day from 9.30 to 5.45 pm (October to March), 6.30 (April to July) and 8.00 pm (August and September).
Saint-André Fort
Proudly sitting on the other side of the Rhône, opposite Avignon and the Pope’s Palace, Saint-André fort is an imposing medieval fortress. By climbing to the top of the towers and following the route of the surrounding walls, children can pretend to be knights. A unique place which is also an opportunity to have an unbelievable view of Avignon, the Rhône valley and the Ventoux.
Fort Saint-André, Villeneuve-lès-Avignon – Tel. : (+33) 4 90 25 45 35
Every day from 10.00 to 12.30 and from 2.00 to 6.00 pm (April to September) and from 10.00 to 12.00 and from 2.00 to 5.00 pm (October to March).
Santon and Provence Traditions Museum
This museum is an opportunity for the whole family to re-discover one of the numerous Provencal traditions: the famous figures. With close to 2000 items, this collection is the most significant that is devoted to these small colourful figures. Cribs, villages, animated scenes of old Provencal professions and homage to Marcel Pagnol, it is an enchanting world that children will not easily forget. Star attraction of the visit: the smallest crib in the world with its 39 figures…. in a nutshell!
Place de la colonne, Fontaine de Vaucluse – Tel. : (+33) 4 90 20 20 83
Every day from 10.00 to 6.00 pm.
Zoos, aquariums, parks and gardens
Crocodile Farm
Unique in Europe, this is an opportunity for the whole family to observe almost 400 crocodiles. In a real tropical atmosphere, alligators, caymans, crocodiles and gavials will no longer be a secret for children thanks to several educational areas. And after the unbelievable glass tunnel that goes under impressive reptiles, young and old can admire the huge turtles in the park, the multicoloured birds and even the plants… carnivores! A visit not to be missed in a world that is truly apart.
Les Blachettes, Pierrelatte – Tel. : (+33) 4 75 04 33 73
Every day from 9.30 to 7.00 pm (March to September) and from 9.30 to 5.00 pm (October to February).
Le Rocher des Doms (Doms Rock)
An imperative walk in Avignon, the Rocher des Doms, a huge limestone rock, seems to come right out of the Rhône. It is opposite Villeneuve-lès-Avignon and Fort Saint André. Walk in the shade of the trees, enjoy the freshness of the water, feed the ducks, geese and swans in the lake or admire the wild peacocks, Rocher des Doms is a little paradise. And there are also games areas for children with slides and a merry-go-round. At the top, there is a terrace with a unique view of the city of popes and its surrounds.
Every day from 7.30.
Les Aigles de Baucaire (Baucaire eagles)
Presented by falconers dressed in period costume, this bird of prey show will have memories for children. With admiration and strong sensations, they will see birds of prey, vultures and eagles brushing their heads! The colourful ballet of these majestic birds, between the towers of the Beaucaire castle, is a chance for a real communion with nature. A great experience!
11, Rue du Courrier, Beaucaire – Tel. : (+33) 4 66 59 26 72
Every day except Wednesday from 2.00 pm.
Kids’voyage’s special treats
La Grotte de Thouzon (Thouzon cave)
Travel to the centre of the Earth! This cave, also nicknamed the Fairy Cave, is the only natural cave that can be visited in the Vaucluse. It is a chance for children and parents to learn about geology and to finally know the difference between stalactites and stalagmites. Younger ones will have the impression of a stone forest descending from the ceiling. A real network whose pieces can be up to 2 m high and 3 mm wide. An unbelievable natural tour!
2083, route d'orange, Le Thor – Tel. : (+33) 4 90 33 93 65
Everyday from 10.00 to 12.00 and from 2.00 to 6.00 pm.
Sweet Museum
A magical place for children and those fond of food! A visit to the Sweet Museum is in four stages with the theme of “enjoyment”. Understand and discover the manufacturing secrets of sweets, be they fruity, sweet or acid drops, a complete programme for the family. Several games, including the machine to make sachets, also await young and old for a real return to childhood. Learn whilst having fun, this is an unforgettable museum to enjoy … without moderation!
Pont des Charettes, Uzes – Tel. : (+33) 4 90 66 22 74 39
From Tuesday to Sunday from 10.00 to 1.00 and from 2.00 to 6.00 pm and every day from 10.00 to 7.00 pm in summer.
Walks on the Rhône
The Rhône is closely linked to the history of Avignon and there are numerous walks on the river to get to know it better. These mini-cruises, a great relaxation, allow the whole family to admire, for example, the two rival cities, Avignon and Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, to see the Saint Bénezet bridge up close or to visit Châteauneuf-du-Pape with its locks. A shuttle also goes to Barthelasse Island, a real green forest in the city.
Allées de l’Oulle, Avignon – Tel. : (+33) 4 90 85 62 25
More information on times of cruises by calling the pier.
Some good places for a family meal
Restaurant Piedoie
Named after its owners, this place has numerous seasonal dishes for the whole family. A charming place with traditional cuisine.
26, Rue Trois Faucons, Avignon – Tel. : (+33) 4 90 86 51 53
Every day except Wednesday lunchtime and evening.
Le Miréio
A lunch and a cruise around Avignon, this is what is on offer! An excellent memory for the whole family and there is a “Mousse menu” for children.
Allées de l’Oulle, Avignon – Tel. : (+33) 4 90 85 62 25
Every day (more information by calling the pier).
A 2 pas du potager
All the fruit and vegetables on your plate come from the kitchen in this restaurant that is both original and friendly. There is a menu especially for children.
46, Rue Edmond Delteil, Avignon – Tel. : (+33) 4 90 85 46 41
From Tuesday evening to Sunday lunchtime.
KIDS' VOYAGE travel guides and NOVOTEL hotels in Avignon wish you an excellent stay.