Drive from Calais to Avignon to explore the historic, walled city in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. The journey by car is packed with quintessential Provence landscapes, including the beautiful Rhône Valley, lavender fields and vineyards.
Driving to Avignon is easy with LeShuttle:
- Our service departs up to four times every hour, 365 days a year
- Your journey with LeShuttle lasts just 35 minutes
- There are no baggage restrictions, so you can pack as much as you like
Why visit Avignon?
Top reasons to visit Avignon include:
- Discover the Palais des Papes: One of the largest Gothic palaces in Europe.
- Stroll along the Pont d’Avignon: The remains of a medieval bridge stretching across the Rhône.
- Explore the Place de l’Horloge: The main square in Avignon, lined with shops, restaurants and historic monuments.
- Visit Avignon Cathedral: A stunning Romanesque cathedral near the Pope’s Palace (the Palais des Papes)
- Relax in the Jardin du Rocher des Doms: A beautiful, ornamental garden with sculptures, swans and a pond.
- Enjoy the Festival d’Avignon: An annual performing arts festival in the city.How long does it take to drive from Calais to Avignon?
Wander down the historic streets in Avignon and soak up the atmosphere.
How long does it take to drive from Calais to Avignon?
The drive from Calais to Avignon is around 9 hours and 25 minutes.
How far is Avignon from Calais by car?
The trip by car from Calais to Avignon is about 984 km, depending on which route you take.
What is the best route to drive from Calais to Avignon by car?
The best route to Avignon depends on whether you want to reach the ‘City of Popes’ quickly or take the time to explore France along the way.
The quick route
The fastest way to drive from Calais to Avignon is via the A26. This toll route takes around 9 hours and 25 minutes. From Calais, take the A16 south, then merge onto the A26, which passes by Reims. Continue on the A5 toward Dijon, then follow the A6 and A7 autoroutes south. Lastly, follow the signs into the city.
The scenic route via the A26 autoroute
With the journey taking just under 10 hours, you’ll probably want to break it up. Why not take the opportunity to explore some of France’s cities along the way
Arras
Around 1 hour and 20 minutes from Calais, Arras is an ideal stop en route to Avignon. Famous for its Baroque-style squares, Belfry, and historic architecture, this charming city in northern France is a great way to whet your appetite for more French history and culture. Plus, its compact size means you can explore the main sights in just a day – making it perfect for a fly-by visit!
Admire the historic architecture in Arras
Reims
Architecture fans will want to stop in Reims, where the city’s Gothic buildings will give you a taste of the style you’ll see later in Avignon. Two hours from Arras, the city is home to Reims Cathedral, the Palace of Tau, and the Saint-Remi Basilica, as well as attractions such as the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Fort de la Pompelle. Of course, Reims is also the perfect place for a tipple, with some of France’s largest and most famous champagne houses here.
Dijon
Just 3 hours down the road from Reims, Dijon has a lot more to offer than its mustard! Known as both the ‘City of Gastronomy and Wine’ and the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’, Dijon is perfect for savouring fine food and fantastic views. Stop here to admire the architecture while enjoying a local dish like beef bourguignon. Or why not try Époisses cheese with Dijon mustard?
Stop in Dijon for delicious dishes surrounded by unforgettable scenery.
The scenic route via the A6 autoroute
Take the A6 to explore Amiens, Paris and Lyon.
Amiens
Amiens is just under 2 hours from Calais – making it a perfect first stop en route to Avignon. The capital of the Somme department in the Hauts-de-France region, the city has everything, from art and history to waterside views and gardens. Explore its Gothic cathedral, visit the Musée de Picardie, wander down its picturesque canal, or stroll along the floating gardens of the Hortillonnages.
Paris
Another two-hour drive will take you to Paris. The French capital, the city is packed with unforgettable attractions and highlights. Check out landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, and Notre Dame Cathedral or explore the city’s lesser-known spots for a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
Why not explore Paris for hidden gems?
Lyon
With around 5 hours’ drive from Paris to Lyon, you’ll no doubt be ready to eat by the time you arrive. Luckily, Lyon is not only the food capital of France, but also of the world. Discover everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to traditional bouchons – cosy, family-run eateries serving hearty Lyonnaise dishes – as well as vibrant indoor markets and casual dining spots.
The scenic route via the A71 autoroute
Take the A71 autoroute to explore the historic city of Orléans before driving on to Avignon.
Orléans
Famous for its connection to Joan of Arc, Orléans is bursting with history and culture. Visit Orléans Cathedral, the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Maison de Jeanne d'Arc, or simply sit in the Place du Martroi. The square lined with cafés and restaurants and watched over by a bronze equestrian statue of Joan, is the perfect place soak in the lively atmosphere.
Discover the Joan of Arc monument in Orléans.
Driving in Avignon
Drive in Avignon with confidence by planning ahead, familiarising yourself with the city’s layout, parking options, and local rules before your visit.
Drive to Avignon with LeShuttle
Ready to drive to Avignon? With LeShuttle, you can cross the channel in just 35 minutes.
Book your trip today.
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