Welcome to Villeneuve lez Avignon, the city of cardinals, where history unfolds around every corner. Here, the legacy of the popes and centuries of history permeate every stone and alleyway, evoking the glorious past of a city deeply connected to its big sister, Avignon. An essential stop on your Gard vacation itinerary!
Nestled between the banks of the Rhône and the rolling hills, this royal city founded by Philip the Fair was the scene of monumental construction projects that gave rise to sumptuous cardinal palaces. Villeneuve lez Avignon boasts an exceptional cultural heritage and invites visitors to discover its architectural treasures and its Provençal art of living. We invite you to immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Villeneuve lez Avignon and let yourself be charmed by its timeless appeal.
Don't miss our most beautiful villages in Provence in Grand Avignon.
So BEAUTIFUL
Between leisurely strolls and cultural discoveries
Villeneuve lez Avignon has an impressive cultural heritage, which you can discover as you wander through its streets. Plan to spend at least two or three days to fully enjoy everything Villeneuve has to offer — and keep your eyes wide open!
01
Tour Philippe-le-Bel
To start your visit off right, we recommend the Philippe-le-Bel Tower. Just a few steps from the Rhône, it rises majestically. A dungeon of a medieval fortress, built between XNUMX and XNUMX, it stands as the guardian of the mysterious bridge that once connected both banks of the river.
02
Fort Saint-André
Dive into the past by discovering Fort Saint-André, an imposing fortress built in the XNUMXth century. Explore its historic ramparts, steeped in history, overlooking the town of Villeneuve lez Avignon.
03
Abbey Saint-André and its gardens
Nestled within the walls of Fort Saint-André, the Benedictine and Royal Abbey of Saint-André invites you to discover its sumptuous terraced gardens and its abbey palace.
04
La Chartreuse of Villeneuve
You can't miss the Chartreuse! Once a monastery of the Carthusian Order, it is now a cultural hotspot that hosts artist residencies and Avignon Festival performances.
05
Musée Pierre de Luxembourg
Dive into the story of a sumptuous private mansion from the 17th century, former palace of Cardinal Ceccano.
Admire The Coronation of the Virgin by Enguerrand Quarton and the famous Ivory Virgin from the 14th century.
And to make sure you don't miss anything, we suggest you download the discovery plan "Explorer Villeneuve lez Avignon'
See also
Hidden treasures
Many other hidden gems are waiting to be discovered in Villeneuve lez Avignon. Here are a few more suggestions to enrich your visit.
Good tips for visiting
Alone, as a couple or with family, go to theGrand Avignon Tourist Office to best prepare your excursion to Villeneuve lez Avignon.
5 Monument Ticket
Here are the keys to Villeneuve lez Avignon’s heritage — treat yourself to an unforgettable experience at an unbeatable price! You can purchase it directly at the ticket office of any of the five monuments, or at the Grand Avignon Tourist Office in Villeneuve. It’s valid for one year from the date of purchase! Here, we take the time to explore — that’s the art of living in Provence.
THE 5 AVAILABLE MONUMENTS
- The Abbey's gardens and exhibitions
- Fort Saint-André
- Chartreuse
- Tour Philippe-le-Bel
- The Pierre-de-Luxembourg Museum
Avignon City Pass
Whether you are on vacation for an extended getaway or just passing through for a weekend, theAvignon City Pass is your pass to discover all the hidden treasures of Villeneuve lez Avignon and Avignon in 24 or 48 hours.
Villeneuve with family
Pick up a quiz booklet to turn your visit into a fun and educational experience!
Young and old alike can explore the city's treasures while having fun answering questions and solve puzzles.
A fun and interactive way to discover the heritage and history of Villeneuve lez Avignon with family !
- free
- available at the Villeneuve Tourist Office
Organize your stay
Good addresses
Find everything you need to plan a comfortable stay. From gourmet restaurants to picturesque accommodations — hotels, holiday rentals, campsites, and guesthouses steeped in history — you're sure to find the perfect option to suit your preferences and make your stay in Villeneuve lez Avignon as pleasant as it is memorable.
Festivals
Things are happening in Villeneuve!
Villeneuve en scène
With its rich and diverse program, this Festival of Traveling Writings is not to be missed!
You will find shows there combining theatre et circus, music, dance et street artsWe love the original and sometimes offbeat programming that leaves plenty of room for emotion.
Festival du Polar
This festival is the opportunity to immerse yourself in this world of police intrigue and manipulation. make law: the Polar.
Come and meet these authors who take over the place for a thrilling weekend! All in a magnificent setting — the perfect opportunity to discover the Chartreuse in a whole new light!
Architecture en fête
As part of the National Architecture Days in October, the “Architecture en fête” event at the Chartreuse offers a rich program of workshops, exhibitions, talks, screenings, and performances — a special moment for artistic encounters and exchanges.
So Nature
Discovery activities
On foot, by bike, or even by boat, there are many options available for you to fully enjoy the wild spots from Villeneuve.
The walks
You want to discover the local flora and fauna? Enjoy the scenery Or simply take the time to enjoy the Provençal sun? You'll find what you're looking for HERE!
Find all the information on the tourist circuits in Villeneuve on your “Explorer” discovery plan.
Discovering the historic center
Explore the heart of Villeneuve and discover the façades of its must-see monuments — all in just one hour!
Panoramas of the Tower District
Set off from the Tourist Office and discover Mourgues Hill on foot — a scenic walk with stunning views all around!
Along the water
For the more adventurous, this nature-filled walk is a must. It can be done on foot or by bike, following the Rhône and crossing the Plaine de l’Abbaye along paths preserved from urban development.
Love at first sight
Enjoy a picnic on Mourgues Hill and take the time to soak in this peaceful corner of nature — complete with a breathtaking view!
The shade of this corner of nature is particularly appreciated in summer.
Want more walking?
The Cartoguide “The Côtes du Rhône Gardoises, between vineyards and heritage” is on sale at the Tourist Office (€5).
Explore more
Unusual activities
To visit Villeneuve lez Avignon in another way, here are some of our recommendations.
Bike tours
Whether you're stopping over during a cycling trip or heading out for a short ride, Villeneuve invites you to hop on your bike and take the small roads that wind through peaceful, scenic corners.
01
Véloroute des Chartreux-3055
Villeneuve lez Avignon
02
Balade de l’île de la Barthelasse – à vélo
03
La Rive droite du Rhône-balade à vélo-50
Villeneuve lez Avignon
Cruises
Fancy a stroll along the river? We invite you to discover the emblematic monuments of Villeneuve and Avignon from the view of the Rhône! The Company of the Great Boats of Provence invites you to go to walk from Avignon to discover Villeneuve, or even to continue until the cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape for a day trip!
Mobility
Arriving in Villeneuve
By train, by bike, by car, by tourist shuttle... discover all the options for getting to this town in the Gard region.
The ViaRhôna
What better way to explore the region than by bike? Luckily, the ViaRhôna cycle route crosses the Avignon and Villeneuve areas before heading towards the Mediterranean!
And if you want to see other bike rides available in the area, it's here.
event
Do not miss
Villeneuve is also its excitement on market days. Take the time to share the authentic daily life of the Provençals, and who knows, maybe do some good business.
The Thursday market
Whether you are looking for fresh to cook a delicious Provençal meal or simply to enjoy thehappy atmosphere who reigns there, the Thursday market is an event not to be missed during your stay at Villeneuve lez Avignon.
Saturday flea market
The flea market is an essential step For lovers of hidden treasures and antiques. Along the bustling aisles, each stall is brimming with unique finds, from rare antiques to unusual curiosities.
Food Truck Night
For a friendly and gourmet evening, find the food trucks on Place Charles David every Monday from 18 p.m. to 22 p.m..
So Good
Quality products
While Villeneuve is renowned for its impressive cultural heritage, it's also home to a wealth of quality producers. Don't hesitate to take the time to discover them and taste their specialties!
The Bronzini House
Since 2008, the year in which Philippe Bronzini took over the Moulin de la Chartreuse, the establishment has been modernized to become what it is today: a lively and welcoming place numerous events and exhibitions throughout the year. We will benefit as much from the restaurant only pâtisseries, from the cozy atmosphere of the tea Room that on the side chic bistro with its delicious tapas, or eventerrace area to enjoy the Provençal sun in the shade of the olive trees.
At the Moulin shop, you can have taste Extra Virgin Olive Oils made by the house and find a selection of regional products, decorative objects and cosmetics.
The 3-bottle cellar
If you love wine, you must stop here! La Cave Les 3 Bouteilles offers a varied range of wines, spirits and craft beers.
You will also find delicatessen products and wine accessories.
A space for living and sharing, this cellar offers tasting evenings, winegrower meetings, artist exhibitions, and the possibility of organizing private events.
See more...
The good places
Meet the artisans of taste !
Explore more!
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Come discover or rediscover our most beautiful villages in Provence Grand Avignon which each have their own specificities.
Villeneuve lez Avignon, where the historical imprint is felt on every street corner, has many assets. This city in the Gard, whose history is closely linked to that of Avignon, reveals a glorious past, as evidenced by the sumptuous residences of the Popes and cardinals. Villeneuve proudly displays its cultural heritage, inviting visitors to discover its architectural treasures and its Provençal art of living. Whether for its cultural and historical riches, its natural corners and activities, its producers and other taste pleasures to discover, there is always a good reason to discover or rediscover this city of France!
What you need to ride
Are you motivated to get started on your two-wheeler? Here everything you need to know to make your trip go as smoothly as possible.
Vélopop'
Explore Avignon and its surroundings by bike has never been so simple and enjoyable, thanks to infrastructure designed for cyclists.
In addition toan increasing number of cycle paths, you will have access to 30 Vélopop' stations for some 300 self-service bicycles.
This rental service offers 1 day pass and weekly pass.
The Bicycle House
Getting around the city by bike is completely natural! With the Maison du Vélo inaugurated this Wednesday, May 29, 2024, the Grand Avignon has a reception area, advice and resources within the Avignon Multimodal Exchange Hub.
The Bicycle House of Grand Avignon, It is :
- several information on the various bicycle services offered by the Grand Avignon (secure bicycle lockers, purchasing assistance, Vélopop' self-service bicycles, etc.).
- un support for discovering cycling and getting back in the saddle.
- several training modules for repairing your own bike (changing a wheel or repairing a headlight, for example), thus helping to keep residents' bicycles in good working order and encouraging their regular use.