Transportation
Getting to Avignon by Train
Avignon is highly accessible by train, with two main stations: Avignon TGV (high-speed lines, 5 minutes from the center via “La Virgule” shuttle train) and Avignon Centre (regional trains). It’s perfect for coming from France, but connections also exist from some European countries :
- From the UK, Belgium, The Netherlands and Germany: Eurostar to Paris Gare du Nord, then TGV from Paris Gare de Lyon to Avignon TGV (~6 hours total).
- From Switzerland : Direct TGV Lyria to Avignon TGV (~3 hours 15 mins).
- From Spain : Direct high-speed train connections (AVE/TGV) to Avignon TGV (~4 hours).
Getting to Avignon by Air
Via Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) – Best for long-haul flights
- Flight: Fly into Paris CDG.
- Train: Take a direct TGV high-speed train right from the airport station (Terminal 2) to Avignon TGV.
- Travel time: ~3 hours by train.
Via Marseille Provence (MRS) – Best for European & regional flights
- Flight: Fly into Marseille (MRS).
- Train: Take the 5-minute free shuttle from the terminal to Vitrolles-Aéroport station, then take a direct regional train (TER) to Avignon Centre.
- Travel time: ~1 hour by train.
Getting to Avignon by Car
Avignon is connected via the A7 and A9 highways. Driving inside the historic city walls is heavily restricted; using park-and-ride options outside the center is strongly recommended.
You can park for free outside the city walls and take a free shuttle to the center, or use secured 24/7 underground paid parking inside the city walls (approx. €20/24h)
Please prioritize carpooling if you can !
Visa information
To come to France, you may need a visa. The Visa Assistant tool, offered by the French government, can help you check if you need one.
If so, the tool details the application procedure and all the necessary documents. IYNC2026 may be able to provide you with a letter to facilitate visa formalities.
Accomodations
To attend a conference at the Palais des Papes, staying inside the city walls (Intra-Muros) is highly recommended. Everything is within walking distance, eliminating the need for local transport.
Hotels (Within walking distance)
These mid-range options are commonly used for events due to their reliability, central location, and reasonable pricing:
- Kyriad Avignon – Palais des Papes (3★): Located directly on Place de l’Horloge, just a 2-minute walk from the conference venue.
- Regina Hotel Avignon (3★): Situated on the main Rue de la République, offering a straightforward, budget-friendly stay less than 10 minutes away on foot.
- Hôtel Mercure Avignon Centre Palais des Papes (4★): Right next to the venue, offering higher standards while remaining competitively priced for business events.
- Avignon Grand Hôtel (4★): Located near the main train station (Avignon Centre), a 15-minute walk to the Palais des Papes through the main shopping streets.
Alternative Options
- Apart hotels & Airbnbs: Numerous short-term rental apartments are available inside the city walls, which can be cost-effective for longer stays or groups.
- Budget options outside the walls: Hotels near the Avignon TGV station or outside the ramparts (like Ibis Budget) offer lower rates, but require taking the 5-minute shuttle train (“La Virgule”) or a bus to reach the center.
