Business Class Flights to Avignon, France

Most international flights to Avignon, France, arrive at Marseille Provence International Airport (MRS), located in the city of Marseille. Regional, direct flights to Avignon arrive at Avignon Provence Airport (AVN), located in Avignon.

Marseille Provence International Airport is located 65 miles from Avignon, or just over an hour’s drive by car. The airport is a hub for Air France, the country’s flag carrier, as well as for the low-cost Irish airline, Ryanair. In addition to Ryanair, cheap flights to Avignon may also be available on low-cost airlines Volotea, Sky Express, Vueling, and Twin Jet, all of which maintain operations at Marseille Provence International Airport.

Due to its long history, Avignon is home to more than 170 buildings and other sites that are listed as French national monuments. These include the Romanesque Notre Dame des Doms cathedral, built in the 12th century; the city’s medieval fortification walls, gates, and towers, built in the 14th century; and the Calvet Museum, which houses a large collection of artwork and a library containing more than 140,000 books.

The Palais des Papes, because of its historical significance, is easily one of the most popular visits in Avignon. Not only is it one of the largest medieval Gothic structures in France and Europe, but it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors come to take in the breathtaking and awe-inspiring structure, as well as explore its halls on a tour. Though many of the artifacts and decorations have been removed, tourists are given tablets on their tour, which allows them to see what certain rooms and areas may have looked like centuries ago.

For visitors who want to take in a classic look of Avignon, Place de l'Horloge is a great destination. This is Avignon’s main square and is the location of the city hall, the opera, and other buildings. It’s also right by the Palais des Papes. Surrounding this square are dozens of cafes and eateries, many of which offer outdoor seating, so tourists can grab a coffee or a bite to enjoy while taking in the architecture.

Located right along the river, the Musée du Petit Palais in Avignon is located in a former cardinal’s residence and is now home to a revered selection of artwork. Visitors can see pieces on display from the 13th century up through the 16th century. Many of these pieces are from the Italian Renaissance, and there are also medieval paintings and sculptures.

Visitors also fly to Avignon to attend the medieval University of Avignon, one of the oldest universities in Europe. The University of Avignon was founded in the early 1300s by Pope Boniface VIII. The university is perhaps best known for its law school.

Notable people with ties to Avignon include Renaissance painter Nicolas Dipre; Pierre-Esprit Radisson, an explorer in 17th century New France and one of the founders of the Hudson Bay Company; and novelist Pierre Boulle, author of Planet of the Apes and Bridge over the River Kwai.