a large medieval building in Avignon Provence

Avignon is one of most photographed places in the world

Ranked 140th in the world and 4th most popular in the PACA region

featured in News & reviews Author Ellie Mahoney, Provence Editor Updated 5 September 2017

It may not be a big surprise to some to hear that the Avignon, the jewel in Provence's crown, is one of the most popular places in the world to be photographed.

With its beautiful and historic architecture, bridges, castles, Roman ruins, gourmet markets and cafe-lined streets, it's no surprise that Avignon has been highlighted by the sightsmap website as a veritable hotspot for photographers.

Nearby on the French Riviera, Monte-Carlo, the playground of the rich and famous, ranks an impressive 7th in the world. The neighbouring city of Nice just behind in second position and the equally glamorous yachting destination of Saint Tropez in third, making the entire PACA region a prime place for photographic opportunities.

The Palais des Papes is the most photographed place in Avignon, as you'd probably expect, with its impressive ramparts which you can explore day and night. It's home to Les Luminessences, a spectacular light and sound show that draws huge crowds every summer.

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The Pont d'Avignon, or Pont St Benezet as it's also known, is Avignon's second most popular place to grab a picture. the half bridge spanning the Rhone river can be accessed for a small fee, or you can simply take photos from the riverside.

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The beautiful ornamental gardens of the Rocher des Doms are third on the list. It's free to enter and you'll not only enjoy wandering around the ornamental ponds and raised flower beds, but you can get a great panorama of the city from here too.

At the heart of the city, Place de l'Horloge is the central square where you'll find the 19th century city hall, plenty of cafes and restaurants and during the summer, it's one of the main venues for the Festival d'Avignon.

The imposing Romanesque facades of the Cathédrale Nôtre-Dame des Doms takes fifth place. Come here to hear the bells ring or to see the two large organs housed within. Various reliquaries and vestments can also be viewed here.