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If you have done the things to do in France, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Vezelay.
Nestled amidst hills that roll like a symphony, Vezelay beckons travelers to step back in time and wander the cobbled streets and medieval buildings that cling to the hillside.
With an abundance of cultural and natural attractions, Vezelay offers a treasure trove of experiences that are guaranteed to leave an indelible mark on any visitor.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Vezelay:
1. Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine
A Romanesque church in the town of Vezelay, France, built in the 12th century.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful architecture and intricate carvings that adorn the exterior and interior of the Basilica. Attend a Mass or religious service inside the church.
Don’t miss: The relic of Saint Mary Magdalene, which is said to be housed in the Basilica. The views from the hill on which the Basilica sits are also stunning.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season. Take a guided tour of the Basilica to learn more about its history and significance.
2. Maison Jules Roy
A museum dedicated to the life and works of the French writer Jules Roy.
What to see or do: Explore the various rooms of the house where Roy lived and worked, and admire the many books, letters, paintings, and photographs on display that illustrate his life and legacy.
Learn about his experiences as a soldier, explorer, journalist, and author, and discover his passion for the Arab world and his love of nature and spirituality.
Don’t miss: The peaceful garden at the back of the house, which offers a delightful spot for reading and contemplation. Also, be sure to check out the temporary exhibitions, literary events, and workshops organized throughout the year.
Insider travel tips: Pick up a guidebook at the entrance to help you navigate the various rooms and objects. If you speak French, consider attending one of the guided tours or talks offered by the friendly staff.
Also, don’t forget to visit the nearby Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which towers majestically over the hilltop town of Vezelay.
3. Tour de l’Horloge
A clock tower located in the charming medieval village of Vezelay, France.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets of Vezelay, and admire the impressive Tour de l’Horloge. The tower boasts stunning views of the surrounding countryside and offers a glimpse into the rich history of the village.
Don’t miss: The picturesque views from the top of the tower, which overlook the Basilica of Sainte-Madeleine and the rolling hills of Burgundy.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or towards the end of the day to avoid the crowds.
Take your time to explore the village and stop by one of the local restaurants for a delicious meal paired with a glass of Burgundy wine.
4. La Porte Neuve
La Porte Neuve is a historic gate in Vezelay, France that was built in the 14th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the intricate stonework of the gate. It also provides access to the medieval town of Vezelay, which boasts other ancient architectural wonders.
Don’t miss: Take a walk on the ramparts of the gate and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and hills.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or in the evening to avoid the crowds. Consider hiring a local guide to get a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the town.
Additionally, be sure to explore the narrow streets and hidden alleys of Vezelay for a true taste of the local lifestyle.
5. Fôret de Vézelay
A beautiful forest located in the central region of France near the village of Vezelay.
What to see or do: Enjoy a peaceful walk through the lush green forest surrounded by an abundance of wildlife.
Marvel at the ancient trees that have stood the test of time and soak in the tranquil atmosphere that permeates throughout the forest.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the surrounding countryside from the top of the hill where the famous Vezelay Basilica is located. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the Basilica and reflect on the history that surrounds this sacred site.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it at one of the many picnic spots that are dotted throughout the forest. Also, don’t forget to bring insect repellent as the forest can be quite buggy during the summer months.
Finally, make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes as some of the trails can be quite challenging.
6. Le Moulin
Le Moulin is a charming bed and breakfast in Vézelay, a small medieval village located in the Burgundy region of France.
What to see or do: Le Moulin offers a peaceful retreat where you can relax and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the area.
Take a stroll through the picturesque village and admire the Romanesque architecture of the Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine or explore the beautiful countryside with its rolling hills, vineyards, and forests.
Don’t miss: While staying at Le Moulin, don’t miss the opportunity to taste some of the delicious local wines and cuisine.
The region is known for its exquisite Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines, and there are plenty of small restaurants and cafés in the area where you can try them.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to book your accommodation in advance, as Le Moulin is a popular choice among visitors to Vézelay. When exploring the village, wear comfortable shoes as the streets and sidewalks can be uneven.
Finally, don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with the locals – they are friendly and always happy to share their knowledge of the area.
7. La Maison du Visiteur
La Maison du Visiteur is a cultural center located in the heart of the medieval town of Vezelay, France.
What to see or do: As a cultural center, La Maison du Visiteur offers a variety of exhibits and interactive experiences that showcase the history and cultural heritage of Vezelay.
Visitors can explore the center’s many rooms and exhibits, which include multimedia displays, historical artifacts, and art installations.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of a visit to La Maison du Visiteur is the interactive virtual reality exhibit that transports visitors back in time to experience the sights and sounds of medieval Vezelay.
Visitors can also take advantage of guided tours of the town and surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the center’s schedule for special events and performances, such as concerts and theater productions.
The center also offers workshops and classes on various topics related to Vezelay’s history and culture, so be sure to inquire about these opportunities during your visit.
8. Atelier Galerie Yves Millecamps
Atelier Galerie Yves Millecamps is an art gallery and workshop located in Vezelay, a charming medieval town in Burgundy, France.
What to see or do: The gallery features a diverse collection of contemporary paintings, sculptures, and drawings by Yves Millecamps, a Belgian artist who has been living and working in Vezelay for over 30 years.
Visitors can browse through the colorful and expressive artworks or watch in awe as Yves creates new pieces in his studio.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out Yves’ signature “Tree” series, which features intricate and whimsical depictions of trees in various seasons and moods.
The gallery also hosts occasional exhibitions by guest artists, so be sure to check their website for upcoming events.
Insider travel tips: – The gallery is open Wednesday through Sunday from 2 pm to 7 pm, but it’s always a good idea to check their website or call ahead to confirm hours.
9. Galerie Remp’Arts
A contemporary art gallery located in the historic town of Vezelay, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can view various exhibits showcasing works by local and international artists, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed media pieces. The gallery also hosts special events, such as artist talks and book signings.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the unique architecture of the building, which features a spiral staircase and vaulted ceilings. Additionally, the gallery is just a short walk from the famous Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Insider travel tips: The gallery is open daily during peak tourist season (April to November) and on weekends during the off-season (December to March).
Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. Parking can be limited in the town of Vezelay, so plan accordingly.
10. Le Chemin de Compostelle
Le Chemin de Compostelle, also known as the Camino de Santiago, is an ancient pilgrimage route that leads to the tomb of St.
James in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. One of the popular starting points for the route is the Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene in Vezelay, France.
What to see or do: The walk along Le Chemin de Compostelle is filled with stunning scenery, charming towns, and historic landmarks. Along the way, pilgrims can visit beautiful churches, monasteries, and abbeys that date back to the Middle Ages.
The route also passes through the wine regions of Burgundy and Rioja, offering plenty of opportunities to sample local wines and cuisine.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the route is the Cruz de Ferro, a 20-foot-tall iron cross located in the mountains of Leon.
Pilgrims traditionally leave a stone at the base of the cross to symbolize leaving behind a burden or sin. Another must-see is the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, where pilgrims arrive after their long journey.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to pack light and comfortable shoes for the journey. Accommodations along the route range from pilgrim hostels to bed and breakfasts, so plan your stops accordingly.
Additionally, aim to walk during the quieter months of the year, like May or September, to avoid large crowds on the route.
Finally, take time to soak in the culture and history of the cities and towns you pass through along the way.
11. La Salle de L’Excommunication
An impressive medieval room located in the Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene in Vezelay, France.
What to see or do: Admire the intricate frescoes that cover the walls of the room, depicting scenes of the Last Judgment and the excommunication of Emperor Frederick Barbarossa by Pope Alexander III in 1167.
Don’t miss: The central pillar of the room, which shows a devil swallowing souls and being defeated by the archangel Michael.
Insider travel tips: Visit the room early in the morning to avoid crowds and get a more peaceful experience.
Also, make sure to explore the rest of the basilica, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important Romanesque churches in France.
12. Espace d’Expositions des Muriers
Espace d’Expositions des Muriers is an art gallery located in the scenic town of Vezelay in Burgundy, France.
What to see or do: The gallery features a rotating collection of contemporary art from both established and up-and-coming artists. Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, and installation art.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the charming town of Vezelay while you’re there.
Known for its historic abbey and stunning views of the surrounding countryside, Vezelay is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience the beauty of rural France.
Insider travel tips: If you’re planning to visit Espace d’Expositions des Muriers, make sure to check the gallery’s website in advance to see what exhibitions are currently on display.
You may also want to book accommodation in Vezelay ahead of time, as the town can be quite busy during peak tourist season.
Additionally, be sure to take some time to explore the local restaurants and cafes for a taste of Burgundy’s famous cuisine.
13. La boutique de la basilique
A charming gift shop located in the village of Vezelay, France, at the foot of the famous Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine.
What to see or do: The boutique offers a wide range of religious and locally made souvenirs, including beautiful icons, rosaries, pottery, candles, and sweets.
Visitors can also admire the lovely selection of books about the history and art of the basilica and the pilgrims who have traveled there for centuries.
Don’t miss: The locally produced honey and jams, as well as the handmade soaps and perfumes. These unique products make perfect gifts for friends and family members back home.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to stroll around the picturesque village and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
If you happen to visit Vezelay in July or August, you may be lucky enough to attend one of the many concerts or festivals that take place in the basilica and the nearby streets.
14. Le Viewpoint
Le Viewpoint is a stunning panoramic viewpoint located in Vezelay, France.
What to see or do: From the top of Le Viewpoint, visitors can take in breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, including the Morvan Regional Natural Park and the Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine.
Don’t miss: Be sure to bring your camera to capture the beautiful scenery and the iconic Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Insider travel tips: To best experience Le Viewpoint, come during the morning or late afternoon when the lighting is perfect for photography. It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes as the climb to the viewpoint can be steep.
Additionally, nearby Vezelay Abbey is a must-see attraction for history enthusiasts.
15. Église Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul de Vézelay
Église Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul de Vézelay is a Romanesque church located in the town of Vézelay, France.
What to see or do: The church is renowned for its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and beautiful stained glass windows.
Visitors can take a tour of the church to learn more about its history, as it played an important role in the history of France during the Middle Ages.
Don’t miss: One of the most prominent features of the Église Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul de Vézelay is the tympanum on the west portal, which depicts the Last Judgment.
The intricate sculptures on this tympanum are considered some of the finest examples of Romanesque art in existence.
Insider travel tips: If you can, visit the church early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Guided tours are available in several languages, and it’s worth taking one to fully appreciate the significance of the church.
Also, be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the floors can be uneven.