Les Remparts d'Avignon
Explore the 14th-century fortress-like walls of Avignon, offering stunning views of the Rhone River and a glimpse into medieval history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Golden hour light is magical
Les Remparts d'Avignon
Best Time
Golden hour light is magical
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the 14th-century fortress-like walls of Avignon, offering stunning views of the Rhone River and a glimpse into medieval history.
"Impressive stroll around the old walls! It looks even beautiful right before sunset."
🚶♀️ Walk the Full Circuit
The 4.3 km ramparts offer a fantastic walking tour. Wear comfortable shoes!
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The walls are especially beautiful right before sunset. Don't miss the views!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Scale of the Walls
Circumference of the historic center
Marvel at the sheer size and preservation of these 14th-century fortress-like stone walls, a testament to medieval engineering.
Sunset Views Over the Rhone
Along the western sections of the ramparts
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Rhone River as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with color.

The 39 Defensive Towers
Visible along the entire length of the ramparts
Admire the imposing presence of the 39 towers, each a crucial element of the historical defense system of Avignon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Les Remparts
Understanding the Ramparts' History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
France trip Avignon attractions?
🚶♀️ Walk the Full Circuit
The 4.3 km ramparts offer a fantastic walking tour. Wear comfortable shoes!
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The walls are especially beautiful right before sunset. Don't miss the views!
Visiting around Avignon?
Visiting Avignon for the first time : Need Advice ?
📸 Photo Opportunities
Plenty of great spots for photos, especially along the river.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially in summer, carry water as you explore the extensive walls.
Is it worth visiting Avignon and Nice?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Full Circuit
The 4.3 km ramparts offer a fantastic walking tour. Wear comfortable shoes!
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The walls are especially beautiful right before sunset. Don't miss the views!
📸 Photo Opportunities
Plenty of great spots for photos, especially along the river.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially in summer, carry water as you explore the extensive walls.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the immense scale and historical significance of Les Remparts d'Avignon, often highlighting the beautiful sunset views over the Rhone River. While the free access is a major plus, some note that certain sections can be uneven or less maintained, requiring comfortable footwear for the full circuit.
"The length and size of the rampart is amazing. The rampart was constructed to protect the Papal palace inside"
Adie Klein
"The city walls were constructed during the period when the city served as the seat of the papacy (1309–1377), a time known as the Avignon Papacy. With the arrival of the popes, Avignon was transformed into a fortified stronghold. The walls extend for approximately 4.3 kilometers, forming a near-complete loop around the historic center. The fortifications include 39 towers and 7 major gates, making them one of the best-preserved examples of medieval urban ramparts in France."
Seokjin Ham
"Impressive stroll around the old walls !!!"
Tony B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Les Remparts d'Avignon encircle the historic city center. You can easily reach them by walking from most central accommodations in Avignon. If arriving by train at Avignon TGV station, take a local bus or taxi to the city center. Parking is available in various garages around the old town, from where you can access the ramparts.
While there isn't specific public transport along the ramparts, local buses will take you to various points around the historic center, allowing you to start your walk from different gates. The entire circuit is walkable from the city center.
Driving directly along the ramparts is not possible as they are pedestrian areas. However, several paid parking garages are located just outside the walls, such as Parking des Halles or Parking Palais des Papes, providing convenient access to start your exploration.
The ramparts are integrated with the city center. You can access them from any of the main gates, such as Porte de la Ligne, Porte Saint-Lazare, or Porte du Rhône. Simply walk towards the edge of the old town, and you'll find pathways leading up to the walls.
Yes, guided tours focusing on the history and architecture of the ramparts are often available through local tourist offices or private tour operators. These can offer deeper insights into their construction and significance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking along the top of Les Remparts d'Avignon is generally free and accessible to the public. You can explore the walls and enjoy the views without purchasing a ticket.
The ramparts are open 24/7 as they are part of the city's landscape. However, access to certain sections or towers might be restricted during specific hours for maintenance or events. It's always best to check local advisories if you plan to visit very early or late.
There is no entrance fee to walk on the ramparts themselves. They are a public space integrated into the city.
Most of the ramparts are accessible for walking. However, some sections might be closed for restoration or due to safety reasons. The main circuit is generally well-maintained and open.
No, there are no specific tickets or passes required for the ramparts. They are a free public amenity. If you are visiting other attractions like the Palais des Papes, consider a combined city pass if available, though it won't be specifically for the ramparts.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can walk along the 4.3 km of well-preserved medieval walls, enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Rhone River, and admire the 39 defensive towers. It's a great way to get a sense of Avignon's historical scale and strategic importance.
Walking the entire 4.3 km circuit can take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours at a leisurely pace, allowing time for photos and enjoying the views. You can also choose to walk shorter sections.
Access to the top of the ramparts can be challenging for those with mobility issues, as there are stairs and uneven surfaces in some areas. However, you can still appreciate their grandeur from ground level and certain accessible viewpoints.
The western sections offer particularly beautiful views of the Rhone River, especially during sunset. Many of the towers also provide elevated perspectives of the surrounding landscape and the historic city.
Yes, the ramparts are generally safe for walking. They are well-maintained, and the pathways are clear. However, always be mindful of your surroundings, especially in less crowded areas, and wear appropriate footwear.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours, just after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographing the ramparts. The warm light enhances the texture of the stone and provides stunning views of the Rhone River.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the entire wall, detailed photos of the towers and battlements, scenic views of the Rhone River, and picturesque street scenes from the top of the ramparts. The contrast between the ancient stone and the modern city is also a great subject.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require special permits. Always be respectful of other visitors.
A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the scale of the walls. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the towers. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light photography during sunset or sunrise.
Look for vantage points that showcase the full length of the walls, especially where they meet the river. The areas near the Palais des Papes also offer great perspectives, integrating the ramparts with other historic landmarks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and water, especially during warmer months, as there are limited facilities directly on the ramparts. While the entire circuit is long, you can choose to walk shorter sections if little legs get tired. The views of the Rhone River can also be a point of interest for younger explorers. It’s a free and engaging activity that provides both exercise and a history lesson.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Combine your walk with a picnic lunch overlooking the Rhone River for an even more economical and enjoyable experience. The ramparts provide a beautiful backdrop for a simple meal. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the city's atmosphere and history without incurring significant costs.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full scale of the walls and a telephoto lens to focus on architectural details of the towers. Consider a tripod for low-light shots. The contrast between the medieval fortifications and the modern city, as well as the natural beauty of the river, provides a diverse range of photographic subjects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of Les Remparts
The ramparts feature 39 imposing towers and 7 major gates, each designed for defense and control. Walking along them today offers a unique perspective on the strategic thinking of the era. You can almost imagine the sentries patrolling, guarding against potential threats. The sheer scale of the construction underscores Avignon's importance as a papal residence and a major European center during the 14th century. It’s a history lesson etched in stone, providing context for the grandeur of the nearby Palais des Papes.
Modern visitors can still appreciate the architectural ingenuity and the historical weight of these fortifications. They serve as a constant reminder of Avignon's past glory and its role in shaping European history. The preservation efforts have ensured that these walls remain a prominent and awe-inspiring feature of the city, inviting exploration and reflection on centuries gone by.
Exploring the Ramparts: A Walking Experience
Many travelers recommend dedicating at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully appreciate the walk, allowing ample time for photography and soaking in the atmosphere. You can start your journey from various points around the historic center, with popular access points near the Palais des Papes or along the riverbanks. The 39 towers offer numerous vantage points, and each gate provides a different perspective as you traverse the circumference. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair bit of walking!
For an even more memorable experience, consider timing your walk for the golden hours – shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The soft, warm light casts a beautiful glow on the ancient stones and creates breathtaking scenes over the Rhone. This is when many visitors find the ramparts particularly enchanting and photogenic.
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