Ah, Avignon in January. It’s not exactly the time of year when tourists flock to its cobblestone streets and ancient charm, but that’s precisely what made it magical. With bitter cold nipping at our noses, blue skies stretching endlessly above us, and the rare luxury of being almost the only visitors, it felt like the city had rolled out a private welcome for us.

Wrapped in layers upon layers (think Michelin man, but chic), we wandered through the nearly empty streets, marvelling at how peaceful everything felt. The usual hustle and bustle of summer crowds was replaced with the occasional bird song and the satisfying crunch of our footsteps on frost-kissed stones. We had the Pont d’Avignon practically to ourselves—not a soul to share it with, save for the icy mistral wind trying its best to knock us off our feet.

But the real highlight of the day? Lunch at Le Goût du Jour. Not just because stepping inside meant escaping the freezing air (though trust me, that was a major factor), but because the experience was unforgettable. From the moment we were greeted, it felt like visiting old friends who just happened to be Michelin-level chefs. The food? Oh, let me tell you, it was the kind of meal that makes you sigh and smile at the same time. Fresh ingredients, innovative dishes, and flavours so divine they could warm even the chilliest of toes.

And the service—well, let’s just say that if everyone in France were as friendly as the team at Le Goût du Jour, the country might lose its reputation for being a tad aloof. Their warmth and humour turned a great meal into a perfect one.

By the time we stepped outside again, stomachs full and spirits lifted, the cold didn’t seem quite so bitter. Avignon had charmed us, one frostbitten moment at a time. It’s not every day you find yourself feeling like the only tourists in one of France’s most beautiful cities. Perhaps winter in Provence isn’t so unusual after all—just wonderfully underrated.

TravelTips:

• Don’t skip Le Goût du Jour. It’s worth braving the cold for.

• Bring layers. Lots of layers.

• Relish the quiet—it’s a rare treasure in a city this beloved.