In Avignon for the 25th anniversary of European Capital of Culture

It will be a cultural season to remember in Avignon, with a whole programme of festivals and popular and artistic events accessible to all, to worthily celebrate the 25th anniversary of Avignon as European Capital of Culture. It starts with a major exhibition at the Palais des Papes, where the great chapel has hosted major contemporary art exhibitions every year since the monument was opened to the public. This year Othoniel Cosmo or 'The Ghosts of Love' is on stage from 28 June until 4 January 2026. 220 works are planned, 160 of which are completely new. A project that will be accompanied by a documentary film, the publication of a dedicated book and a multidisciplinary performance to be discovered at the end of the next edition of the Avignon Festival, scheduled in the court of honour of the Palais des Papes from 5 to 26 July.

Don't miss a visit to the Bains Pommer, classified as a historical monument since 1992 and dating back to the Belle Epoque, an atypical and unique place in France. They are due to reopen on 30 June (subject to change) and the visit traces the development of these public baths over almost a century. For a taste stop, there is Kouk, a neighbourhood 'wine cellar' at No. 1 rue Henri Fabre open all day to enjoy a homemade cake, a carefully prepared selected matcha, a gourmet dish of the day, various dishes with veg and gluten-free options in a cosy atmosphere. Another address is Le Quai des Saveurs, opened last December on the square opposite the central station, it is a true showcase of the Avignon hotel school and offers a hybrid concept, open all day. The best way to discover Avignon is by bicycle and among the itineraries to follow is the cultural one, the 'tour of the ramparts', which takes about 45 minutes, or the Ile Barthelasse, a relaxing walk in a treasure chest of greenery near the old town, about 13 km to cover in an hour and a half.