Choosing to travel by car from Nice to Avignon is convenient, safe, and cost-efficient. The trip covers around 155 miles (250 kilometers) and usually takes approximately 2.5 to three hours, depending on the traffic conditions.
Aside from what you will see at your destination, you can stop by several renowned landmarks along the way, beginning with Cannes. Many people around the world associate this French city with the venue of the Cannes Film Festival but you can also find beautiful beaches there.
Then you can also stop by Aix-en-Provence, another city famous for its colorful markets and traditional Provençal cuisine, such as bouillabaisse, ratatouille, and tapenade. You might also want to visit the quaint town of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, known for its artistic heritage and Roman ruins.
Driving through these remarkable locations in southern France at your own pace will allow you to create memories you want to remember.
About Avignon
Set on the Rhône River, Avignon may not be as famous as Paris or Cannes, but it has a rich history dating back about 5,000. It had been a stronghold of the Cavares’ Gallic tribe until it asserted its independence during the 1300s, with its trade industry flourishing. But this was short-lived; King Louis VIII occupied Avignon soon after.
Avignon’s heyday happened in the 14th century when it became the capital of the papacy from 1309 to 1377. The pope during that time moved the papacy from Italy as he feared it was too dangerous for the church there. Also, he believed the papacy would be more secure under the support of a French king.
In 1995, Avignon was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its papal legacy, offering memorable experiences to several visitors until today, filled with cafés, shops, and squares perfect for taking photographs and people-watching. As you spend your day in Avignon, you can head over and discover its notable attractions. These include:
Palais des Papes (Popes’ Palace of Avignon)
Jardin des Doms (Doms Garden)
Pont Saint-Bénézet, also known as Pont d'Avignon
Les Halles d'Avignon, Avignon’s indoor market
Calvet Museum
Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct bridge
* Avignon Cathedral
From Nice to Avignon: travel tips
Traveling from Nice to Avignon requires planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Pack light
You won’t be traveling between distant locations, but it’s easier to navigate with less luggage. Busy stations and cobbled streets are no fun with heavy bags. Of course, if you ride with Daytrip, you'll travel door-to-door so you can pack as much as you want!
### Keep essentials with you
A tumbler of water and some snacks make traveling so much more pleasant. It’s difficult to enjoy places when you're parched and hangry.
### Be aware of the local customs
Though most French people are well-versed in English, learning basic French phrases will still be helpful and be appreciated by the locals. Also, keep some cash as some establishments may not accept credit cards.
How to get from Nice to Avignon
There are several ways to travel from Nice to Avignon. These include riding the train, hopping on a bus, renting a car, and booking a private shuttle service like Daytrip. Take note, though, that these modes of transportation between those cities vary depending on convenience, speed, and price, so choose what’s best for you.
### Nice to Avignon by train
Taking the train is a convenient option with the train ride taking approximately three hours. The average ticket price is $61 (56 euros). However, unlike in other cities, there are certain days when there are a limited number of trains to Avignon. If you don’t want the long waits, it is recommended that you take a look at other options.
### Nice to Avignon by bus
Riding the bus is the cheapest and most economical option, with fares costing around $59 (54 euros) on average. But you might need to keep a book in your bag or watch pre-downloaded movies on your phone as the bus trip can take up to 4.5 hours, the longest among the other modes of transportation.
### Nice to Avignon by rental car
Renting a car can provide more flexibility and the opportunity to explore at your own pace. Rental prices vary but expect to pay around $50 (46 euros) per day. Keep in mind that parking in Avignon can be challenging and expensive.
### Nice to Avignon with Daytrip
For a more personalized experience without the stress of driving the car yourself, choose Daytrip, a private transfer service that will bring you door-to-door from Nice to your accommodation in Avignon.
You can book in advance and set your exact pick-up time and address, as well as your exact drop-off address. You have complete control over your trip and can look forward to your English-speaking driver ensuring a perfect journey from the get-go.
And did we mention the sightseeing stops? Who'd want to pass up the chance to explore charming Aix-en-Provence or the stately Chateau de la Barben?
Things to do when you get to Avignon
Right as you get from Nice to Avignon, you can feast your eyes on the architecture and enjoy several activities. Whether you are visiting the city during the day or night, it will provide you with experiences you will never forget. Here are some of the best things to do when you reach Avignon.
### Tour the city
Avignon is a city steeped in history, so be sure to stop by the most important landmarks around. First, there’s the Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the pope resided during the 14th century. Then you have Rocher des Doms nearby, a beautiful garden treating you to views of the Rhône River and the surrounding areas.
### Immerse into the culture
For those who wish to learn and immerse into the culture of Avignon, some of the best venues are the Musée du Petit Palais, the Collection Lambert, and the Calvet Museum. The Musée du Petit Palais houses Medieval art and artifacts, including more than 300 Italian primitives and sculptures from the 1100s to the 1500s.
Meanwhile, Collection Lambert is a contemporary art museum in 18th-century mansions in the heart of the city. Calvet Museum has a civic collection of artworks from the 1700s to the 1800s, including French paintings and ancient Egyptian artifacts.
### Shop and dine
Avignon is not just a melting pot of history and culture, but it has also become so modern that it’s an ideal destination for shopping and food. Experience Provençal cuisine at a local bistro. Some of the best restaurants that serve these delights are Avenio, L’atelier, and Maison de la Tour.
The city is also a shopper’s paradise. Don’t miss the chance to visit Les Halles d'Avignon, an indoor market offering a variety of local produce and specialties. Avignon Antiquites Antiquae, Brocante de Avignon-Place Pie, and L'élémentaire are also great places to shop while you’re there.
When is the best time to visit Avignon
Know the best time to visit to make sure your trip from Nice to Avignon will be rewarding. Actually, this depends on your preferences. The summer months, from June to August, are peak tourist season. Aside from the hot weather, with temperatures averaging around 86°F (30°C), it can be very crowded.
We say spring (from April to June) and autumn (from September to October) are the best time to visit Avignon. The shoulder seasons offer milder weather, fewer tourists, and a more relaxed atmosphere, making these seasons ideal for a visit. The Les Hivernales dance festival and the Résonance electro-music festival are some of the events you can attend.
"Iulian was prompt; the car was very nice. We have just enough time in Aix. Overall very good experience.
"
Kathleen L.
United States
2024年5月30日
", our driver Virgil, and the van were wonderful. We had a great trip and enjoyed Virgil’s suggestions"
Eileen B.
United States
2023年11月2日
"It sure did! They were exceptional, punctual, polite and very knowledgeable in telling us where and what not to miss!! Like I said before there’s no way I can add extensions to our tours without the ease of mind that DayTrip provides!
"
sophie p.
Canada
2023年11月2日
"It sure did! They were exceptional, punctual, polite and very knowledgeable in telling us where and what not to miss!! Like I said before there’s no way I can add extensions to our tours without the ease of mind that DayTrip provides!
"
sophie p.
Canada
2023年7月22日
"We are very much satisfied with your arrangement and our overall experience is very good. Our driver was nice, spoke enough English, and took care of our needs.
"
Jian H.
People's Republic of China
2023年6月6日
"Met with Guy outside my hotel and he loaded my luggage into his care and we were on our way. We stopped at small towns in between Nice and Avignon, which added to my sightseeing of the French countryside. I saw many picturesque vineyards as well as olive orchards that I would have missed if I went on a train. Thoroughly enjoyed my Daytrip experience as well as my conversations with Guy! "
Leonardo C.
United States
2023年5月9日
"Andranik picked us up right on time. Very good driver. Courteous and made sure we were comfortable. Unfortunately we had to stop because there was a nail in the front tire. He bought a repair kit but was unable to fix the tire so he called a friend who lived nearby for help. His friend was there in no time and we switched cars and arrived safely at our destination. Andranik was very concerned for our safety and apologized several times for something that was not his fault. He is a very good driver and an asset to your company. Would use your service again and would recommend. Five stars!"
Lena M.
United States
2022年10月26日
"Very pleased with your Daytrip! Virgilius N. Was right on time-the car was clean and comfortable. The drive was such a pleasure. We plan to use and recommend your service any time we can.
Your response to our initial email was immediate and removed any concern we had about getting to Avignon from Nice. Virgilius was terrific-excellent driver and very pleasant! "
Andrew U.
United States
2022年6月2日
"Our driver Guy was a most pleasant fellow and excellent driver. He shared stories and local’s information that made the trip enjoyable and educational.
I would definitely engage the services of Guy and Daytrip in future travels. "
Jerry G.
United States
2022年5月26日
"Our trip with Virgilius was awesome! He arrived early and notified by text, the car was clean, he had water for us and helped us find a place for lunch. We arrived on time and he escorted us inside the train station. Overall an excellent trip! I would highly recommend him.
"
Karen M.
United States
2021年7月25日
"There didn't appear to be a link to this email so hopefully direct responses are read.
Madalin was super. He was very excited to have us and planned a personal itinerary that lasted much, much longer than the one we chose originally and exposed us to sites we would otherwise have missed. I don't think he got back home until 0200 or so the next day. You should choose Madalin first for anything looking to use your service in the Cote d'Azur area.
This is the second time we have used Daytrip and we think it's a great idea. I hope that you will be able to really take off now that travel restrictions are lifted. I'm sure it's been a tough 18 months for you"
Frederick J.
United States
2019年11月14日
"We found the service excellent. Madalin greeted us at the Airport on arrival with a smile and carried our luggage to his vehicle. The car was roomy and very comfortable and he offered water and snacks for our journey to Avignon. The drive was most enjoyable and Madalin narrated highlights along the way. On arrival he assisted us into the hotel during heavy rain. A big thank you to Madalin."
Kevin B.
Australia
2019年5月29日
"The experience was absolutely perfect! Our driver was flawless and could not have been more gracious. "
Christina D.
United States
2019年5月24日
"Ilie (MD as we called him) was a very pleasant and engaging young man. The conversations we have had with your drivers really turn out to be the highlight of our transfers. Ilie was prompt and had apt suggestions for our stop in Aix-en-Provence. His vehicle was spotless and very comfortable and he is a very capable driver. We would not hesitate to travel with him and Daytrip when we have need again."
Brian W.
United States
关于从 尼斯 到 阿维尼翁 旅行的问答
The best stops along the way include Aix-en-Provence, Camp des Milles, and Chateau de la Barben. Aix-en-Provence is not only a historical landmark but a shopper’s paradise. Camp des Milles is an insightful former internment camp that's now one of UNESCO's headquarters, and Chateau de la Barben is a stunning, private manor.
Yes, visiting Avignon is definitely worth it. It may not be as popular and trendy as other French cities like Paris, but Avignon is the perfect destination for history geeks. Points of interest include the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Palais des Papes and the Pont Saint-Bénézet.
Definitely. The drive along the coast offers views of the Mediterranean, and inland routes pass through Provençal towns and the countryside. Using Daytrip can further enhance this experience, as you can include sightseeing stops with local insights from your driver to your door-to-door car transfer.
Taking the train is convenient. The average train ticket price is $61 (56 euros). Be sure to book your tickets in advance to secure the best prices and availability. But, unlike in other cities, there are days when trains are limited.
The fastest way is by train, which takes only about three hours. This option is convenient and allows you to avoid traffic. But that doesn’t make it your best choice. A road trip with Daytrip takes about the same amount of time, but you can enrich your travel experience by exploring the French countryside at your own pace.
You can take a train, which is fast and convenient. Alternatively, you can ride a bus, but the trip can take up to around 4.5 hours. Renting a car is another option, giving you more flexibility. Or, you can book a private car transfer with Daytrip and enjoy a door-to-door ride in about 3 hours. Or turn your ride into an adventure with enriching sightseeing stops!
沿途参观这些景点
穆金博物馆的女性艺术家
Dedicated to masterworks from The Levett Collection by female artists, this private collection is featured in a stunning remodelled medieval residence. A Lasting Impact
圣玛丽·玛格丽特大教堂
Designed to capitalise the Summer Solstice, this Medieval basilica is an open, airy space that’s has had its ups and downs. Mary and Bright
艾克斯-普罗旺斯
The leafy boulevards, Romantic mansions, and plethora of fountains give a chic air to the former Provencal capital. A Provencal Fountain of Chic
米尔工厂
This former factory served as an internment camp during World War II, and is now a memorial spreading the message of acceptance. Looking Back, Looking Forward
拉巴本城堡
This still-lived in castle transports visitors back in time through its fully furnished interior, serene garden, and costumed guides. A Private Fantasy
普罗旺斯的沙龙
The final home of Nostradamus, this medieval city’s historic core houses a massive castle, serene churches, and a unique fountain. The Bishop’s Lounge
