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The Pont d'Avignon, also known as the Pont d'Avignon and the Pont Saint-Bénézet , is a famous bridge in southern France built in 1177. It gained worldwide fame thanks to a famous ballad. Originally 900 meters long, it consisted of 22 arched piers, spanning two tributaries of the Rhône River. However, repeated flooding of the Rhône destroyed most of the piers, reducing the original 900 meters and 22 arched piers to its current four piers, and it is now in a broken state.
Climate: Mediterranean. Hot and dry summers, mild and rainy winters.
Best time to travel: June to September
Recommended attractions: Papal Palace
Recommended play time: half a day
4.5 euros, discounted price 3.5 euros
Every November to March 9:30-17:45
April to November 9:00-19:00
9:00-21:00 during the July Drama Festival
The Pont Saint-Bénézet, also known as the Avignon Bridge, was originally built in the 12th century and is famous for its association with the French folk song "Sur le pont d'Avignon." It once spanned the Rhône River, connecting Avignon with Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, but only a few arches remain today due to floods and structural decay. It is an iconic symbol of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Avignon Bridge is located just outside the historical center of Avignon. It is easily accessible by foot from the town's main attractions, such as the Palais des Papes. The closest bus stop is "Pont Saint-Bénézet," and taxis are available in the city center. There is no metro service in Avignon.
The Avignon Bridge is open to visitors year-round. The museum on the bridge is typically open from 9:30 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.
The entrance fee to visit the Avignon Bridge and its museum is typically around €5-€8. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through the official Avignon tourism website for convenience.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (May to September) to avoid waiting in long lines.
Exploring the Avignon Bridge and the museum typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. If you plan to take a boat ride or enjoy the surrounding areas, you may want to allocate additional time.
Guided tours are available in French and English. Audio guides are also offered in several languages, including English, French, Spanish, and Italian. These can be rented at the entrance.
Start by walking across the bridge and visiting the museum located at the end. Then, enjoy the scenic views of the Rhône River and surrounding landscapes. If you have extra time, take a boat ride along the river for a different perspective.
There are no night visits or light shows specifically on the bridge. However, special cultural events or concerts may occasionally be held around the bridge or the adjacent square in the summer months.
The bridge can be crowded, especially in the summer months. For a more peaceful visit, try to visit early in the morning or during weekdays, avoiding weekends and public holidays.
There are toilets at the entrance to the bridge. While there are no food stalls directly on the bridge, you will find plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby. There are also souvenir shops in the area.
The Avignon Bridge itself has some uneven surfaces and stairs, which may be challenging for those with limited mobility. However, the nearby museum and areas around the bridge are generally accessible for elderly and disabled visitors.
Both cash and cards are accepted at the ticket counters and souvenir shops around the bridge. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also available at most locations.
Yes, many of the restaurants in the Avignon area offer vegetarian and vegan options. Halal food options are also available at certain local eateries.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the Avignon Bridge and throughout the city. Popular souvenirs include Provençal textiles, lavender products, local wines, and handcrafted ceramics.
