Villeneuve Les Avignon

Just across the Rhône River from the bustling streets of Avignon lies a quieter, often overlooked gem: Villeneuve-lès-Avignon. Steeped in history, this peaceful town once played a vital role during the 14th century when the Papacy moved to Avignon. While the Pope established himself across the river, many cardinals built grand residences in Villeneuve, transforming the hillside village into a refined retreat of cloisters, gardens, and fortifications—some of which still dominate the skyline today.

Despite its rich past, Villeneuve-lès-Avignon remains off the radar for many tourists visiting Provence. But those in the know will tell you: it’s absolutely worth the short hop across the bridge for a half-day—or even better, a full day if you want to linger over a long lunch, sip an Aperol spritz in a sunlit square, and take in the unhurried charm of this southern French treasure.

Start your visit at the Office de Tourisme, housed in a welcoming stone building right at the center of town. The friendly staff will provide you with free walking maps that make it easy to navigate the village’s historic lanes and landmarks.

High on the list of must-sees is the Fort Saint-André, an imposing 14th-century fortress that towers over the village and offers panoramic views of the Rhône Valley and Avignon’s medieval skyline. Don’t miss the jardin du fort, a beautifully maintained private garden tucked within the walls—a peaceful, often solitary spot where roses and olive trees grow in quiet defiance of the stone battlements.

Nearby, climb the Tour Philippe-le-Bel, the medieval tower that once anchored the western end of the famous Pont d’Avignon. Its spiral stairs lead you to a rooftop view that explains in a glance why this village was so prized by medieval powerbrokers. Just a short walk away, the Chartreuse du Val de Bénédiction, a sprawling former monastery, is a labyrinth of serene cloisters, chapels, and walled gardens. It’s a place to lose yourself in thought and history alike.

But the true joy of Villeneuve-lès-Avignon lies not just in its monuments, but in its lived-in charm. The town is laced with quiet, cobbled streets and small squares framed by honey-colored stone buildings, shaded by plane trees. Spend time in one of several squares, where locals sip coffee, play pétanque, or gather for a glass of rosé in the early evening.

For dining, you’re spoiled for choice. At Bronzini, located in a former olive mill, you’ll find a young, energetic crowd and a menu of casual Provençal fare with a modern twist. For something more refined, L’Émulsion offers elegant, seasonal cuisine in a minimalist but warm setting. And for a true culinary experience, book a table at the Michelin-starred Restaurant Le Prieuré. On warm days, sit on the terrace overlooking the manicured garden and enjoy dishes that celebrate both tradition and innovation, served with polished grace.

Two outstanding boulangeries in town operate in tandem: one closes Mondays, the other Tuesdays, ensuring that Villeneuve’s residents are never without a fresh baguette or buttery croissant. It’s a small, charming example of local cooperation that underscores the village’s community spirit.

If you’re looking for a peaceful morning coffee or an afternoon apéritif, make your way to L’Heure Bleue, a tucked-away café-wine bar that feels like a local secret. Shaded and serene, it’s the kind of place where time slows down and the hum of conversation mingles with the rustling of leaves and clinking of glasses.

If your visit coincides with one of the town’s weekly markets, so much the better. The Thursday morning food market fills the central square with fragrant produce, cheeses, and spices. But the real standout is the Sunday antique and flea market, which draws treasure hunters from across Provence. Here you’ll find everything from vintage linens and old books to enamel signs and 19th-century pottery—a true browser’s paradise.

And then, just when you think you’ve taken it all in, the village offers one final, quirky surprise: the bridge that connects Villeneuve and Avignon bears two names. On the Avignon side, the sign reads Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, while on the Villeneuve side it says Villeneuve-lez-Avignon—a spelling difference no local seems able (or interested) to explain. It’s a perfect symbol for this quietly enchanting town: full of beauty, history, and just a touch of mystery.

For those who want to see Provence beyond the guidebook headlines, Villeneuve-lès-Avignon is a hidden gem worth discovering. Peaceful, elegant, and deeply authentic, it’s the kind of place that lingers in your memory long after the Rhône is behind you.