2 Best Performing Arts in Provence, France

Founded in 1947, this is the oldest theater festival in France and one of the biggest in the world. It takes place over three weeks in July and features more than 1,500 performances held in venues throughout the city. The Off Festival ( www.festivaloffavignon.com), which is held simultaneously, is less formal and highlights productions by smaller, more experimental companies.

This hip cultural complex, on a picturesque cobbled street just behind the Palais des Papes, includes the Utopia–La Manutention movie theater, a well-regarded restaurant, the AJMI jazz club, and a relaxed bar that's popular even with those not seeing a show. Its location in front of the Avignon School of the Arts and its eclectic style—a mix of antique and contemporary touches—make it a big draw for the town's artsy crowd.