The Hôtel d'Europe is one of the great old addresses of Avignon. It occupies a magnificent sixteenth-century house at 12 place Crillon, in the quarter between the Palais des Papes and the Rhône, close to the river and the Pont Saint-Bénézet. The house was once the residence of noble families, and in 1799 it was bought and turned into a travellers' inn, which is when its hotel life began. It still feels like a mansion: a central courtyard, a shaded terrace, stone staircases and rooms with plenty of character, each one different. There are about forty-four rooms and suites, ranging from comfortable doubles to large suites with period furnishings, and the hotel offers air conditioning and a lift, which is not always the case in buildings of this age. The restaurant, La Vieille Fontaine, serves a gastronomic menu built on local products, with tables in the dining room or out in the courtyard when the weather allows. Guests also have the use of a closed, covered garage with valet service, which is a real convenience in a city of narrow streets.
Getting around from here
Place Crillon is on the western side of the old town, so the palace is a walk of about ten minutes and the bridge is a few minutes closer. The shops and cafes of the Place de l'Horloge are a short stroll, and the ramparts and the river are right outside.
The Avignon Centre railway station is roughly fifteen to twenty minutes away on foot, or a few minutes by taxi, and the valet garage makes driving in simple. The streets in this part of town are quiet in the evening, which makes for good sleep.
The rooms and what is good to know: because the hotel occupies a historic building, rooms vary in size, outlook and layout, so describe your priorities when you book, whether a quiet courtyard room, a view or extra space. Rates start at a moderate level for a hotel of this character but climb sharply at peak times, particularly in July during the festival and in the sunny months, and breakfast is charged separately. Expect period charm rather than modern minimalism, and ask about any maintenance work before you confirm dates in autumn or winter.
Who it suits
Couples and travellers marking an occasion, food lovers who want a gastronomic dinner at the door, and anyone who values a calm base with parking. It is less suited to travellers who want a swimming pool or a lively bar scene on site. The staff can book palace tickets, arrange a driver for Provence day trips and recommend restaurants within walking distance. Book early for the festival and spring weekends, when the city fills quickly, and consider a midweek stay in winter for the best rates and a quiet city.
Why stay here
- ✓Sixteenth-century mansion
- ✓Gastronomic restaurant La Vieille Fontaine
- ✓Courtyard and shaded terrace
- ✓Covered garage with valet service
- ✓Air conditioning
- ✓Lift
- ✓About 44 rooms and suites
- ✓Walk to palace and bridge
Good questions
Where is the Hôtel d’Europe?+
It is at 12 place Crillon, between the Palais des Papes and the Rhône. The palace and the Pont Saint-Bénézet are both within a short walk.
Does the hotel have parking?+
Yes, it has a closed, covered garage with valet service, which is helpful in Avignon's narrow streets. Confirm availability and any fee when you book.
Is there a restaurant?+
Yes, La Vieille Fontaine serves a gastronomic menu based on local products, in the dining room or the courtyard. Check opening days before you plan a dinner.
