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December in Avignon - what will be open?

My family is spending the week of Christmas in Avignon. We are renting a house and will have a car. I'd appreciate any advice about Provence at this time of year, in terms of what will be open and what will be closed. I keep getting excited about sights I find in guidebooks, only to find that some museums, etc, close for the winter months. I do realize that it will be slow season, and not the time most tourists are visiting the area.

Do you have any sights that you recommend, that would be open year round?
Are any of the wineries likely to be open, and doing tastings? Do we need to worry about restaurants and grocery stores being closed on Christmas eve and Christmas day?

Thanks!

Posted by
10632 posts

Yes, you do need to make arrangements for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in advance. Grocery stores and most restaurants will be closed. Be sure to do your shopping early in the day on the 24th. If you want to eat in a restaurant, you should find one open via the Michelin guide, or viamichelin.com, or you can ask the person renting to you for help finding a restaurant.

Posted by
3 posts

Bets: Thanks so much for the info! I've been caught without food options in other places in Europe - though usually only on Sundays. I want to be prepared this time.

Posted by
233 posts

I got a kebab for Christmas dinner in Avignon in 2008 :)