Avignon Hotels

Cloitre St Louis is based around a converted 16th-century cloister of pale stone. Most of the sophisticated, contemporary rooms are in the modern wing, but try to bag one in the original monks' cells, which have a bit more character. The swimming pool is a blessing in summer.

An elegant converted palace, the centrally located Hotel d'Europe is the oldest hotel in town and the preferred place to stay for many celebrities. Pleasing touches include a roof terrace, a sense of space and refined décor of cool, pale colours. There's also a Michelin-starred restaurant and a courtyard garden.

Opposite the Palais des Papes, this former cardinal's palace from the 14th-century is all sophistication and attention to detail. The rooms are delightful, and the hotel's restaurant is one of the best in town. The sumptuous décor has been chosen with flair and imagination. Expensive, but this is luxury with charm and personality.

Well placed on the main square, this handsome old 4-star hotel is in the midst of all the life of the town. Noise is not usually a problem, but if you're concerned, ask for one of the quieter rooms at the side. Rooms are small but comfortable and attractively decorated.

Located in a quiet part of town, the Mercure Pont d'Avignon has the comfortable, well-equipped rooms that typify this chain. It's a short walk from the Pont St Bénezet and the Palais des Papes. One of its useful facilities is direct access to a public basement garage. It also has a small garden.

Well positioned just outside the gateway into the walled city, the Novotel has easy road and rail access, an underground car park, a decent restaurant, swimming pool and spa, as well as bright, spacious, comfortable bedrooms. And it is only 10 minutes' walk to all the attractions of the city.

The Colbert's arty style, with bright decor, pictures on the walls and unusual breakfast plates, are all the product of the creative and generous spirit of hosts Patrice and Annie. Rooms are tiny but adequately equipped. Access is very convenient, and all the sights and city centre are just minutes away.

The Splendid offers six simple, well-kept, brightly decorated little rooms. It occupies an ordinary terraced house in a quiet residential street within the city walls, opposite the garden of an old cloister. It's well placed for anyone arriving by train, as it's just a few minutes' walk up the street from the station.