Avignon: Around The Palace Tour

About this tour

Since the beginning of 2021, Les Noctambules d’Avignon has been broadening the horizons of daytime tours. Covering most of the medieval city center with the 3 Noctambules d’Avignon, they now invite you to explore the untouched part, the Rocher des Doms, with the “Around the Palace” tour. This unique experience offers a different perspective on the papal city, focusing on Avignon’s most emblematic monument, the Palais des Papes, known as the largest Gothic palace in the world. Commencing at Place de l’Amirande, in front of the Roman ruins, you’ll delve into the treasures left by the Popes and cardinals. Explore the gardens crafted by Avignon’s sixth pope, witnessing the different evolutions seen on the walls of monuments since the Middle Ages. A stop in front of the Utopia reveals the darker side of Avignon’s history. Ascend to the garden of Rocher des Doms, where the history of the region and an unusual tale of Avignon unfold. Throughout the tour, discover the secrets behind the Avignon Festival and Jean Vilar, and delve into the famous song about the emblematic Pont d’Avignon. On the descent to Place du Palais, explore Notre Dame des Doms Cathedral and the secrets it conceals. The journey concludes in front of the Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, unveiling the reasons the Popes chose Avignon in the 14th century. This two-hour tour serves as a captivating introduction to the city’s history, the impact of King Philip the Fair of France, and an opportunity to discover the largest green space in downtown Avignon, the garden of Rocher des Doms.