Founded by Jean Vilar in 1947 inside the monumental 14th-century Gothic courtyard of the Palais des Papes, the 81st Festival d’Avignon stages nocturnal world-premiere drama, choreography, and cloister theatre across medieval Avignon.
Direct 2h 40m SNCF TGV INOUI from Paris Gare de Lyon or 27-min TGV from Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) to Avignon TGV + 5-min Virgule rail shuttle into Avignon Centre.
Strict Vigipirate security bag checks apply at the Cour d’Honneur du Palais des Papes (no suitcases or large backpacks permitted inside the Papal Courtyard).
📍 Place du Palais, 84000 Avignon · 12 min walk from Gare d’Avignon Centre
🍽️ Pre-Show Dining: Restaurant Sevin (1★ Michelin · 1 min walk · 75m)
🏨 Recommended Hotel: Hôtel La Mirande 5★ (€540/night · 1 min walk)
📍 Place des Corps-Saints, 84000 Avignon · 4 min walk from Avignon Centre
🍽️ Pre-Show Dining: L’Agape & La Fourchette (1–8 min walk)
🏨 Recommended Hotel: Hôtel Cloître Saint-Louis 4★ (€245/night · 5 min walk)
📍 4 Rue Racine, Place de l’Horloge, 84000 Avignon
🍽️ Pre-Show Dining: Carré du Palais Wine Bar (3 min walk)
🏨 Recommended Hotel: Hôtel d’Europe Avignon 5★ (€395/night · 4 min walk)