Fodor's Expert Review Hôtel de la Mirande

A romantic's dream of a hotel, this petit palais enables you to step into 18th-century Avignon—complete with painted coffered ceilings, precious antiques, extraordinary handmade wall coverings, and beautiful Asian rugs. Guest rooms, most with views of the palace, are both gorgeous and comfy, with extraordinary marble baths. Six stunning rooms in a separate garden building are lavishly decorated in the Empire style. The central lounge is a skylighted and jazz-warmed haven, while the costume-drama dining room is the perfect setting for the restaurant's sophisticated Michelin-starred cuisine, the best in Avignon under chef Florent Pietravalle. If you have the time, take advantage of the hotel's cooking classes conducted in its well-stocked, 18th-century, vaulted kitchens, or partake one of the classical music nights, with chamber music and gourmet delights.