Where to Stay in Avignon, Provence 🇫🇷: 6 Best Places & Top Hotels

Choosing where to stay in Avignon can make or break your French adventure. I’ve spent countless hours exploring every corner of this medieval city to bring you the ultimate guide to its 6 most amazing neighborhoods.

From the bustling historic center  of Avignon near Palais des Papes to the peaceful island of La Barthelasse, each area offers something unique for different types of travelers. Whether you’re visiting for the famous summer festival, exploring ancient monuments, or simply soaking up Provençal charm, I’ll help you find your perfect base in this enchanting papal city.

Best Hotels in Avignon: 🏠

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: La Mirande
• ✨ 5-Star: D'Europe
• 🏨 4-Star: Avignon Grand Hotel
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Le Magnan
• 💸 Cheap: O'Cub Hotel
• 🏢 Apartment: Les Arcades - WIFI - Intra muros of Avignon - Balcony - 45m2
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Hotel Bristol Avignon
• 🏩 For Couples: De Cambis - BW Premier Collection

Quick Guide to Best Areas to Stay: 📋

• 🏛️ For First-Timers: Avignon City Centre
• 🌿 For Nature & Relaxation: La Barthelasse Island
• 🤫 For Quiet: Villeneuve-lès-Avignon
• 🌄 For Views & Serenity: Les Angles

1. City Centre of Avignon – Where to Stay for First-Timers

Walking Everywhere. You can literally walk to everything from the city center. The big palace (c) is right there, and you’ll find cute cafes and food markets just around the corner on every street. I always grab my morning coffee at Café de la Paix on Place de l’Horloge – they make perfect croissants for €1.80 and open early at 6:30 AM.

Avignon Old Town Vibes. I really love how the old stone walls circle around this part of town. You’ll see amazing old buildings everywhere, especially around Place de l’Horloge where everyone hangs out, and down Rue de la République where all the shops are. The weekly antique market happens every Saturday morning from 8 AM-1 PM at Place des Carmes – I found a beautiful vintage Provence poster there for €25.

Getting Around. From here, you can catch the shuttle bus to Avignon TGV station – it takes about 20 minutes and costs €2.10. The local buses start from Place Pie, so you can easily visit other Provence towns without renting a car. I always buy my bus tickets at the Tabac des Halles next to the covered market – they’re super helpful with route information.

Summer Festival Fun. When the theater festival happens in July, street artists perform everywhere and the whole city buzzes with energy. It gets pretty loud at night though, so bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper. The festival office on Rue de Mons sells last-minute tickets from 10 AM daily – I scored amazing seats for just €15 this way.

Food and Shopping. Here’s where I always go for daily stuff and great meals:

• Monoprix supermarket on Rue de la République (open until 9 PM Monday-Saturday)
• L’Épicerie du Palais for fresh bread and local cheese (7 AM-7 PM daily)
• Les Halles covered market for amazing local produce (Tuesday-Sunday 6 AM-1 PM)
• Restaurant La Fourchette on Rue Racine – incredible ratatouille for €14.50
• Pharmacie Centrale at Place Pie (stays open until 8 PM on weekdays)

Money Talk. For food, skip the touristy places around the palace and try Le Petit Bedon on Rue Joseph Vernet – their lunch menu is €16.50 and the food is amazing. I also love getting takeaway socca (chickpea pancake) from the vendor on Rue des Marchands for €3.50 – perfect quick lunch.

Best Avignon Hotels in City Centre

Luxury Hotels

• Hotel De Cambis Best Western Premier Collection – This elegant hotel in the heart of Avignon offers refined accommodations with modern amenities and is just steps away from the Palais des Papes.
• Hôtel Le Bristol – This boutique property combines classic French elegance with modern comfort, offering stylish rooms and personalized service in the heart of the historic city.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Kyriad Avignon - Palais des Papes – A comfortable mid-range hotel in the heart of the city offering good value accommodations with modern amenities, conveniently located near major attractions and shopping areas.
• Hôtel Le Médiéval Palais des Papes – This charming hotel features traditional décor and cozy rooms, providing an authentic Provençal experience at affordable rates within walking distance of historic sites.
• Hotel Le Magnan – A welcoming family-run property offering comfortable rooms with friendly service and excellent value for money, perfect for budget-conscious travelers exploring the city.

Best Hostels

• Maison Rascas - Centre historique – This historic guesthouse offers budget-friendly accommodations with air conditioning and WiFi in a beautifully restored building in the old town.
• Maison Jacob - Hyper centre – A charming historic house converted into affordable lodging, featuring modern amenities like air conditioning and free WiFi in a prime central location.
• Hotel Danieli – This budget-friendly property offers simple but comfortable rooms with essential amenities, providing excellent value for travelers wanting to stay in the city center.

2. Vernet – Where to Stay in Avignon for Arts & Culture

Art Scene Central. This neighborhood has the coolest galleries and artist studios I’ve found in Avignon. You’ll see local painters working in their workshops along Rue Joseph Vernet, and small galleries like Galerie Provençale Art show rotating exhibitions every month. The owner Claude always invites visitors for wine and cheese openings every first Friday at 6 PM.

Creative Cafes. I spend hours at Café des Artistes on Rue Victor Hugo – they serve amazing coffee for €2.50 and let you sit for ages while sketching or reading. The walls display local artwork that changes every few weeks, and the owner Marie always knows what’s happening in the art world. Their homemade quiche lunch special costs €8.90 and comes with a small salad.

Museum Distance. Everything cultural sits within walking distance here. Musée Calvet is just 3 minutes away on Rue Joseph Vernet, while Collection Lambert contemporary art museum takes 5 minutes on foot. Both museums cost €8 entry and stay open until 6 PM except Mondays. I always check their websites for free entry days – usually the first Sunday of each month.

Local Art Supplies and Food. When I need art materials or a good meal, I go to these spots:

• Papeterie Rougier on Rue Joseph Vernet (watercolors, canvases, brushes – open 9 AM-7 PM)
• Librairie Camili Books for art books and postcards (10 AM-7 PM daily, English section upstairs)
• Restaurant L’Atelier on Rue des Trois Faucons – fantastic bouillabaisse for €22
• Marché aux Puces flea market on weekends (vintage posters and old prints, Saturdays 8 AM-6 PM)
• Boulangerie Julien for the best pain aux raisins (€1.40, open 6:30 AM-7:30 PM except Sunday)

Street Art Hunting. The side streets around Rue des Lices have amazing street murals that most tourists never see. I found incredible graffiti behind the post office on Rue Agricol Perdiguier, and the tunnel under Rue de la République has rotating street art exhibitions. The local artists meet every Thursday evening at Bar des Artistes (Rue Thiers) around 7 PM if you want to chat about the scene.

Best Hotels in Vernet

Luxury Hotels

• Mercure Avignon Centre Palais des Papes – A sophisticated hotel featuring contemporary rooms with excellent service, perfectly positioned near the papal palace and city center attractions.
• Hôtel Cloitre Saint Louis Avignon – This luxury hotel is housed in a former 16th-century convent, offering elegant rooms with historic charm and modern comfort in a peaceful setting.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Hotel d'Angleterre – A comfortable mid-range hotel offering good value accommodations with traditional French hospitality and convenient access to historic sites.
• Maison Boussingault – This charming guesthouse provides cozy accommodations with a personal touch, offering excellent value in a quiet residential area within walking distance of attractions.
• L'Observance Bed & Breakfast – A welcoming B&B offering comfortable rooms with breakfast included, providing authentic local hospitality at affordable rates.

Best Hostels

• Apartment 40m2-Air conditioning-Elevator-Underground parking-Self checkin – This modern apartment offers budget-friendly accommodations with air conditioning, elevator access, and convenient underground parking with self check-in flexibility.
• Duplex-Ceiling height 1,9m-Free private parking-Self check in – A duplex apartment featuring air conditioning and free private parking, perfect for budget travelers wanting independence and convenience.
• Appartements Avignon Centre – These central apartments offer budget-friendly accommodations with terraces, providing a home-like experience in the heart of the historic city.

3. La Barthelasse – Where to Stay in Avignon for Nature & Relaxation

Island Life. This little island in the Rhône river feels like a different world from busy Avignon. You cross by the free Navette Fluviale boat that runs every 15 minutes from 7 AM to 8 PM, or walk across Pont Daladier in 10 minutes. The boat captain Jacques has been doing this route for 20 years and knows every family on the island.

Cycling Paradise. I rent bikes from Vélopop station near the ferry dock for €2 per hour and cycle the island’s quiet paths. The 8-kilometer loop takes about 45 minutes, passing farms, riverside picnic spots, and amazing views back to Avignon’s walls. Stop at the viewpoint near Camping Bagatelle – the sunset photos from there are incredible.

Local Farms and Restaurants. The island has working farms where you can buy fresh produce directly from farmers. Ferme de la Barthelasse sells amazing tomatoes, peaches, and local honey from 4 PM-7 PM on weekdays. Their peach season runs June through August. For dinner, try Auberge de Cassagne – their lamb with herbs costs €26 and the terrace overlooks the river.

River Activities and Practicalities. Here’s what you can do by the water:

• Swimming at the small beach near Pont Daladier (free, but no lifeguards)
• Kayak rental from Base Nautique (€15 for 2 hours, open April-October, 9 AM-6 PM)
• Fishing spots along the eastern shore (license required from tourist office for €35 daily)
• Picnic areas with tables under plane trees (bring your own supplies)
• Mini-market La Barthelasse for basics (8 AM-7 PM daily, closed Sunday afternoon)

Peace and Quiet. The island gets really peaceful after 6 PM when day visitors leave. I love walking the dirt paths at sunset, listening to birds and watching the Rhône flow past. No cars allowed except for residents, so it stays super calm. The small Chapel Saint-Michel has beautiful evening light for photos around 7 PM in summer.

Best Hotels in La Barthelasse

Luxury Hotels

• Bastide de Bellegarde – This elegant bastide offers luxurious accommodations in a historic setting on the peaceful island with beautiful gardens and refined amenities.
• Les Jardins du Soleil – A sophisticated property featuring spacious rooms with modern comfort, set in landscaped gardens offering tranquil island living.
• Le Mas des Cerisiers JACUZZI et SAUNA inclus – This luxury mas includes jacuzzi and sauna facilities for all accommodations, perfect for a relaxing retreat surrounded by nature.

Best Moderate Hotels

• Logis Hotel la Ferme – A charming farm-style hotel offering comfortable accommodations with traditional Provençal hospitality in a peaceful countryside setting.
• Mas de Capelou – This traditional mas provides authentic Provence experience with comfortable rooms and rural charm, ideal for exploring the island’s natural beauty.
• Villa Pauline – A welcoming villa offering personalized service and comfortable accommodations in a quiet island location with easy access to Avignon.

Best Budget Options

• Lodges & Nature - 71 – Budget-friendly mobile home accommodations surrounded by nature, perfect for travelers wanting affordable island living with outdoor activities.
• Lodges & Nature - 49 – Camping-style lodges offering economical stays in natural surroundings with basic amenities and proximity to the Rhône river.
• Chez Monique et Rémi – A cozy guesthouse providing affordable accommodations with personal hospitality, offering authentic local experience on the peaceful island.

4. Villeneuve-lès-Avignon – Best Place to Stay in Avignon for Quiet

Medieval Village. This separate town across the Rhône feels like stepping back in time. Fort Saint-André sits on the hilltop watching over everything, while narrow stone streets wind down to the river. Much quieter than Avignon but still connected. The tourist office on Place Jean Jaurès gives out free walking maps and stays open until 6 PM weekdays.

Hilltop Views and Restaurants. I climb up to Fort Saint-André every time I’m here – the entrance costs €7.50 and the views over Avignon are incredible. The fort opens 10 AM-6 PM daily except Mondays. The walk up takes 15 minutes from the village center. Stop for lunch at La Magnanarié halfway up – their terrace serves great salads for €12.50 and the view is amazing.

Connection to Avignon. Bus line 5 runs between Villeneuve and Avignon every 20 minutes during the day for €1.60. The ride takes 12 minutes to Place du Palais. You can also walk across Pont du Royaume in 25 minutes – great exercise with river views. I usually take the bus one way and walk back for the scenery.

Local Markets and Shopping. Thursday morning market on Place Jean Jaurès has the best local produce I’ve found. Vendors sell fresh lavender, goat cheese from nearby farms, and olives from Provence. The market runs 8 AM-1 PM and prices beat tourist areas. Marie at the lavender stand gives great advice about which products work best. There’s also a small Casino supermarket on Rue de la République for basics (8 AM-8 PM daily).

Historic Sites and Dining. Here’s what makes this village special:

• Chartreuse du Val de Bénédiction monastery (€8 entry, amazing cloisters, 9:30 AM-6:30 PM)
• Tour Philippe le Bel tower (€3.50, great photo spot, 10 AM-12:30 PM, 2 PM-6 PM)
• Saint-Pons Church with beautiful stained glass (free entry, open daylight hours)
• Restaurant Le Prieuré for fancy dinner – their tasting menu is €45
• Café des Arts for casual lunch – croque monsieur €6.50, great people-watching

Attraction	Price (EUR)	Hours	Best Photo Time
Fort Saint-André	€7.50	10 AM-6 PM (closed Mon)	Late afternoon
Chartreuse monastery	€8.00	9:30 AM-6:30 PM	Morning light
Tour Philippe le Bel	€3.50	10 AM-12:30 PM, 2 PM-6 PM	Sunset

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Best Hotels in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon

Based on the Booking.com hotel links for Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, here are accommodation options organized by category:

Luxury Hotels in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon

• Hôtel la Magnaneraie – This elegant Best Western property offers luxury accommodations in a historic setting with refined amenities and beautiful gardens overlooking the medieval village.
• Château de l'insolas – A magnificent château hotel providing the ultimate luxury experience with opulent rooms, historic architecture, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
• Hôtel La Suite – This boutique hotel features stylish suites with contemporary design and premium amenities in the heart of the charming medieval town.

Best Moderate Hotels

• Maison Orsini – A charming mid-range property offering comfortable accommodations with traditional Provençal character and personalized service in a historic building.
• O'Cub Hotel – This modern Logis hotel provides contemporary comfort with good value for money, featuring clean design and convenient amenities for exploring the area.
• Logis Hôtel - Restaurant Résidence Les Cèdres – A family-friendly hotel-restaurant combination offering comfortable rooms and excellent dining, perfect for experiencing local hospitality and cuisine.

Best Budget Options

• Zenao Appart'hôtels Villeneuve-lès-Avignon – Budget-friendly apartment-style accommodations with kitchenettes and modern amenities, ideal for longer stays and families wanting independence.
• Un petit coin de paradis avec piscine et parking – An economical private room option with en-suite bathroom and parking included, perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking basic comfort.

5. Saint-Ruf – Where to Stay in Avignon for History Lovers

Ancient Streets. This quiet neighborhood sits just outside the city walls and feels like a secret part of old Avignon. The streets here date back to medieval times, and you’ll find hidden courtyards and old stone houses that most tourists never see. I love wandering Rue Sainte-Catherine in the early morning when the light hits the old facades perfectly.

Religious Heritage. The area gets its name from the old Abbey of Saint-Ruf, and you can still see ruins scattered around. Church of Saint-Ruf on Rue Saint-Ruf holds mass at 9 AM on Sundays and the acoustics inside are incredible. The small museum next door opens Tuesday-Friday 2 PM-5 PM and costs €4 – perfect for history buffs.

Local Life and Dining. This feels like a real neighborhood where locals actually live. I always stop at Boulangerie Saint-Ruf on Rue des Carmes for their amazing fougasse bread (€2.80) – they bake it fresh twice daily at 8 AM and 3 PM. Restaurant Chez Mamie on Rue Sainte-Catherine serves traditional Provençal dishes – their daube de boeuf costs €18.50 and takes 4 hours to make.

Hidden Gems and Shopping. Here’s what makes Saint-Ruf special for exploring:

• Antique shop Brocante du Cloître with amazing old postcards and maps (10 AM-6 PM except Sunday)
• Small vineyard Cave Saint-Ruf for wine tasting (€8 for 5 wines, Thursday-Saturday 4 PM-7 PM)
• Covered passage Passage des Arts with local artisan workshops
• Mini-market Petit Casino for daily needs (7 AM-8 PM, closed Sunday afternoon)
• Traditional barber Coiffeur Provençal – haircut €15, been here 30 years

Peaceful Walks. The best thing about Saint-Ruf is how quiet it gets after 7 PM. I love walking the small streets and discovering hidden gardens behind old walls. Rue de l’Observance has beautiful old doorways, and the small park near Place Saint-Ruf is perfect for reading with a coffee from the nearby cafe.

Best Hotels in Saint-Ruf

Luxury Hotels in Saint-Ruf

• Maison de caractère avec jardin arboré en Avignon – This charming character house features a beautiful landscaped garden and offers luxurious accommodations in a peaceful setting perfect for relaxation.
• Altera Roma Hôtel – An elegant hotel providing premium comfort with sophisticated amenities and excellent service in the historic Saint-Ruf neighborhood.
• Avignon Grand Hotel – This grand hotel offers luxury accommodations with classic French elegance and modern conveniences, ideally positioned for exploring the area’s rich history.

Best Moderate Hotels

• Be Loft B&B Pool & Spa – A stylish bed and breakfast featuring a pool and spa facilities, providing excellent mid-range comfort with boutique touches and personalized service.
• New - Parking - Wifi - Jardin - Le Refuge D'Abel – This property offers comfortable accommodations with convenient parking, WiFi, and a lovely garden setting, perfect for a peaceful stay.
• Appartement La Splenzia SPA Jacuzzi wifi clim – A well-appointed apartment featuring spa amenities including jacuzzi, WiFi, and air conditioning for a comfortable mid-range experience.

Best Budget Options

• Anne de la Maison Blanche – A budget-friendly guesthouse offering simple but comfortable accommodations with authentic local hospitality in the quiet Saint-Ruf area.
• Appartement rue de Provence – An affordable apartment rental providing independence and value for money with essential amenities for budget-conscious travelers.
• Appartement neuf et très calme – This new and very quiet apartment located in Avignon offers excellent value with modern amenities perfect for restful stays.

6. Les Angles – One of the Best Places to Stay in Avignon for Views & Serenity

Panoramic Vistas. This hilltop area offers the most stunning views of Avignon I’ve ever seen. From the viewpoint near Place de la Mairie, you can see the entire papal city spread out below, with the Rhône winding through. The best photo time is definitely around 7 PM in summer – the light makes everything glow.

Residential Calm. Les Angles feels like a proper Provençal village, not a tourist area. Local families walk their dogs in the evening, kids play football in the small squares, and everyone says bonjour when you pass. It’s the real France that many visitors never experience.

Getting Around. You’ll definitely need a car or be ready for some uphill walking to stay here. Bus 11 connects to central Avignon every 30 minutes for €1.60, but the last bus up the hill runs at 8 PM. Taxi from city center costs about €12-15. I always keep the number for Taxi Les Angles (04 90 25 52 52) saved in my phone.

Local Services and Dining. Here’s what you’ll find in this peaceful village:

• Boulangerie des Angles for fresh croissants (€1.20, open 6:30 AM-7 PM except Monday)
• Small Spar supermarket for groceries (8 AM-8 PM daily, limited Sunday hours)
• Restaurant La Terrasse with incredible valley views – lunch menu €22, dinner €35
• Post office and small pharmacy on the main street (limited afternoon hours)
• Tennis club with public courts (€8 per hour, racquet rental €3)

Nature Activities. The area around Les Angles is perfect for outdoor lovers. Walking trails lead through olive groves and lavender fields – the GR4 hiking trail passes right through the village. In spring, wildflowers cover the hillsides and it’s absolutely beautiful. The small lake Lac des Angles (10 minutes by car) has picnic areas and fishing spots.

Evening Magic. What I love most about Les Angles is watching sunset over the valley while sipping wine at La Terrasse restaurant. The village gets incredibly peaceful after dark – just crickets chirping and distant lights twinkling from city of Avignon below. Perfect for couples or anyone wanting to escape the crowds.

Best Avignon Accommodation in Les Angles

Luxury Hotels in Les Angles

• Proche Avignon au calme – This peaceful hotel in Avignon provides luxury accommodations in a tranquil setting with stunning views and premium amenities, perfect for a serene escape near Avignon.
• Maison d'architecte avec vue sur les Alpilles – An architect-designed house featuring spectacular views of the Alpilles mountains, offering sophisticated luxury accommodations with contemporary design.
• Maison aux volets jaunes – This charming house with yellow shutters provides elegant accommodations in a picturesque setting, combining traditional Provençal charm with modern luxury.

Best Moderate Hotels

• Le Petit Manoir Logis – A delightful small manor house offering comfortable mid-range accommodations with traditional French hospitality and excellent value for money.
• HOTEL ERMITAGE – This hotel provides reliable comfort with good amenities and convenient access to both Les Angles village and Avignon attractions.
• Les Trois Chênes – Named after three oak trees, this property offers cozy accommodations with rustic charm and peaceful surroundings ideal for relaxation.

Best Budget Options

• T2 proche d'Avignon au calme – An affordable two-room apartment offering independence and tranquility near Avignon, perfect for budget-conscious travelers wanting quiet accommodation.
• Maison du Lac – This lakeside house provides budget-friendly accommodations with natural surroundings and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for nature lovers.
• Chambre d'hôtes dans une ancienne bergerie - La Bergerie du Monde – A unique bed and breakfast in a converted old sheepfold, offering authentic rural experience with affordable rates and personal hospitality.

FAQ about Visiting Avignon

Which are the best 4-star hotels for families?

Popular options include Hotel de L’Horloge in the city center, Novotel Avignon Centre with a pool, and Avignon Grand Hotel near the station. These provide perfect bases for exploring the historic center and major attractions within walking distance.

What luxury options exist near the Palace?

Hôtel La Mirande sits directly next to Palais des Papes in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hotel d’Europe offers luxurious accommodations with palace views and easy access to explore the city.

Are there popular hotels with breakfast included?

Auberge de Cassagne & Spa offers extensive breakfast buffets and ranks among the city’s best luxury accommodations. Hotel Central and Mercure Avignon Gare also provide breakfast options for comfortable stays.

Which hotels work best for exploring Provence?

The city serves as an excellent base due to its central location and train connections. Properties like Novotel Centre and Best Western offer easy access to south of France while keeping you close to historic sites.

What boutique options exist in the city?

La Divine Comédie is a highly-rated boutique B&B in the historic center with personalized service. Cloitre Saint-Louis offers accommodations in a converted 16th-century building with modern amenities and a pool.

Are there budget-friendly options near the station?

Ibis Budget and HotelF1 provide affordable accommodations close to the train station. Ibis Centre Gare offers mid-range pricing with convenient access to both the station and city walls.

Which 5-star properties offer the most luxury?

Hotel d’Europe stands as one of France’s oldest luxurious hotels, dating back to the 16th century with palace views. Auberge de Cassagne & Spa provides 5-star luxury just outside the city with spa facilities and gourmet dining.

What makes accommodation special during festivals?

Properties provide front-row access to the famous summer festival, with many offering walking distance to theater venues. The historic atmosphere combined with festival energy creates wonderful experiences for culture enthusiasts.

Are there properties with pools available?

Novotel Centre features a swimming pool with modern amenities in the city heart. Auberge de Cassagne & Spa offers luxury pool facilities in a castle setting, perfect for relaxing after exploring historic streets.

How do I find the best location?

The ideal location is within the city walls, particularly around Place de l’Horloge. Properties like Mercure Centre Palais Des Papes and those in the old town offer the most convenient access to historic attractions and the famous bridge.