Cathedral de Notre Dame des Doms

Avignon was the papal residency from 1309 to 1377 and the Palais des Papes is a highlight of a visit to this lovely city—if only to stand on the main square and look up at the long, soft-yellow stone structure that dominates the city skyline, stretching the length of the square and towering against the blue skies of Provence.

Devote the majority of your time to visiting this feudal structure, but don’t miss the two lovely churches, Cathédral de Notre Dame des Doms and L’Église Saint Didier. Just off the Rue Joseph Vernet is the Musée Calvet, . named for the doctor who bequeathed his personal collection of art and funds to launch it. The museum displays a rich collection of work from artists of the French and Avignon schools of painting and sculpture: Delacroix, Corot, and Manet are some of the impressive masters represented. (Closed 1 to 2 pm and all day Tues.)