Wrapped in ancient walls, I was surprised to find that the old city of Avignon, France is a surprisingly busy metropolis in Provence, a region best known for its vineyards and sun-drenched fields of lavender.
But here in the rural heart of the South of France, Avignon provided me with a cultured escape, and a romantic, delicious trip back in time.
A trip by train or car, that is — no time machine required.