Is Pont Saint-Bénézet Worth Visiting in Avignon?
Pont Saint-Bénézet is a lesser known attraction in Avignon, and is known for its iconic status and historical significance as a medieval bridge.
Pont Saint-Bénézet is not as popular as other attractions in Avignon, so visit if you have extra days to spare. The crowds here are not as busy as with other attractions, but it still sees quite a few visitors. The crowds tend to get larger duing the peak travel season, too.
What is Pont Saint-Bénézet?
The Pont Saint-Bénézet, also known as the Pont d'Avignon, is a famous medieval bridge located in Avignon, France. Constructed in the 12th century, the bridge originally spanned the Rhône River but was partially destroyed by floods over the centuries. Today, only four arches of the bridge remain, ending abruptly in the middle of the river. Despite its partial collapse, the Pont Saint-Bénézet remains an iconic symbol of Avignon and attracts visitors from around the world. Visitors can stroll along the remaining sections of the bridge, admire the views of the river and the city, and learn about the bridge's history at the adjacent museum. The Pont Saint-Bénézet is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see attraction in Avignon.
Families with children will sometimes enjoy it, but it really depends on their level of interest. It's not particularly romantic for couples, but not bad either. Budget travelers and backpackers usually enjoy visiting the bridge, too.
Visiting Pont Saint-Bénézet
How much does Pont Saint-Bénézet cost?
Entry to Pont Saint-Bénézet costs €5, and combined tickets are available with entry to the palace which can save you money if you visit both.
Do I need a tour for Pont Saint-Bénézet?
You'll be exploring Pont Saint-Bénézet on your own.
Do I need to book in advance?
No, you don't need to book in advance. Just arrive when ready. Entry tickets cost €5, and combined tickets are available with entry to the palace which can save you money if you visit both. You can book ahead here: Website. Also, if you don't want to go inside, it's possible to see the bridge from the outside for free if you just want to walk by. In fact, many tours in Avignon will pass by the outside while giving you an overview.
How long does it take to visit Pont Saint-Bénézet?
Many people will spend around 1 hour during their visit. Also, this is mostly an outdoor attraction, so you might need to plan for the weather.
When is the best time to visit Pont Saint-Bénézet?
Pont Saint-Bénézet is the most crowded during spring and summer, so you may want to plan accordingly. During the high season, it's even more popular as this is when many tourists visit Avignon. So plan ahead for busy crowds and book activities ahead of time when possible. To avoid the crowds, try to arrive early or later in the day. Visit on weekdays, and avoid the high season if possible. While many visitors come during the day, it's also a great activity at night due to the lights and terrific atmosphere.
More things to do around Avignon
For even more trip ideas, check out these other articles about Avignon.
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