Car Rental Avignon

Location guide for Avignon

Car Rental Avignon

Introduction

The well-know Rhone river flows past the center of Avignon. The bridge over the Rhone has made the city famous. It is the bridge of a very popular song: "Sur le pont d'Avignon". The center is surrounded by a four kilometers long medieval wall. The walled city is synonymous with the arts festival that is held every years in the last three weeks of July. There is also the Palais des Papes (Papal palace). During the French revolution, attempts were made to demolish this palace. It withstood all the attempts to break it down and is used during the annual festival for important theatre productions.

Population

Avignon has about 90,000 inhabitants. Due to the large number of students (9,000) the population of Avignon is relatively young. From the 14th to the 18th century, various popes lived in Avignon. In 1791, during the French revolution, the city was incorporated into the (Republic of) France.

Location

Avignon is situated in the south-east of France, at about 100 kilometers from the Mediterranean. To the left of Avignon lies the Central Massif, and to the right of the city are the outskirts of the Alps. What is most unique about the location of Avignon is the fact that the Rhone virtually cuts through the city.

Economy

The economy of Avignon depends very much on tourism. Every year, many tourists come to the Provence, where Avignon is located. The Provence offers beautiful scenery: lovely and rugged, much history and art. Few people skip Avignon. Tourists come to Avignon for its walled city, the Palais des Papes, etc. It is also possible to take a trip up the Rhone, which meanders through the city. Another important source of income is the annual arts festival. Yet another important element of the city's economy are its universities, which attract young people and create jobs.

Airports

Avignon has one airport, Aeroport Avignon-Caumont, which is located at 8 kilometers to the south-east of the city.

Public transport

From the airport it is not possible to reach Avignon by public transport. You can either rent a car or catch a taxi. A one-way trip by taxi costs about € 15. From Avignon's bus terminal you can go to, for instance, Nice and Paris. You can also take the Euroliner to various other cities (in Europe). Avignon's main train station is located in the city center. Right outside the city is a train station that can receive TGV's, for instance to and from Paris. For two euros you can take the shuttle bus that will take you to and from the station. To move around the city, you can use the buses provided by TCRA. Tickets can be bought on the bus. A one-way ticket costs a little over one euro and ten-trip cards are € 8.

Traffic and Parking

Parking and traffic in Avignon are unlikely to cause you any trouble, unless you decide to visit the city during the arts festival. If that is the case, the city will be very busy, and there is little chance you will be able to find a place to park. Also, driving in Avignon will prove a much more chaotic experience.

Hotels

During the arts festival it is impossible to get a room if you haven't booked months in advance. At other times, it is also best to book ahead, unless you visit Avignon during the off-season.

External Sources

For more information about Avignon, we recommend Google, and the following external sources:

• Wikipedia, Avignon
• Tourism Office
(English and French)
• Official Website Avignon
• Annual arts festival