04-Sep-12 Sunny (Avignon -> Paris)
This morning, we had breakfast at a bakery near the Place de l'Horloge. After that, we headed to the Pont d'Avignon side first. Our train was at noon, so we had plenty of time to explore both the bridge and the Palais des Papes. We also bought a combo ticket for 12 euros, which allowed us to visit both attractions.
The weather was great today, though the wind was a bit strong, but it didn’t affect the scenery around the bridge. Actually, there’s not much to see on the bridge itself—it’s mainly about the story of a shepherd who heard the voice of God telling him to build a bridge, and he overcame all odds to construct it. As someone without a religious background, I didn’t find it particularly moving, so I wouldn’t recommend paying to go up. Instead, I think it’s more enjoyable to admire the bridge from both sides of the river and take a romantic stroll with your loved one along the water.
(Pont d'Avignon)
(Scenery on the bridge)
We then walked to the Palais des Papes. It felt like a medieval castle—less opulent than a royal palace, but with a rustic and solemn atmosphere. It’s worth mentioning that Avignon still has well-preserved 4-meter-high city walls, which are quite unique.
(Palais des Papes)
(Inside the Palais des Papes)
After finishing the Palais des Papes, it was almost time to leave Avignon. We passed by the clock square on our way back to the hotel to pick up our luggage.
(Clock Square snapshots)
(Clock Square snapshots)
(Clock Square snapshots)
We arrived at the train station before noon. It was a fairly new station, but not very lively, and the signage wasn’t very clear. We had plenty of time originally, but I misread the schedule and missed my train, so I ended up taking the next one to Paris.
(Next post: Paris...)