Carpentras Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Locality

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, Carpentras is a commune that exudes charm and history. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and idyllic countryside, this hidden gem offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

One of the highlights of Carpentras is its well-preserved medieval old town. Wander through its narrow, winding streets and discover centuries-old buildings adorned with colorful shutters and flower-filled balconies. The town's main square, Place Maurice Charretier, is a bustling hub where locals gather to enjoy a cup of coffee or indulge in delicious Provençal cuisine at one of the charming cafés and restaurants.

History buffs will be delighted by the numerous historical landmarks that dot the cityscape. Visit the magnificent Saint Siffrein Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture dating back to the 15th century. Admire its intricate stained glass windows and marvel at the grandeur of its bell tower. Don't miss the Hôtel-Dieu, a former hospital turned museum that showcases Carpentras' rich past through a collection of artifacts and exhibits.

Carpentras is also renowned for its vibrant market scene. Every Friday, the town comes alive with the colorful sights and sounds of the weekly market. Stroll through the bustling stalls and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as locals sell their fresh produce, aromatic herbs, and handmade crafts. Indulge in some local delicacies like truffles, olives, and lavender-infused products, and experience the true flavors of Provence.

Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the beautiful surroundings of Carpentras. The nearby Mont Ventoux, known as the Giant of Provence, offers breathtaking panoramic views and is a popular destination for hikers and cyclists. Explore the stunning vineyards that carpet the rolling hills, producing some of the finest wines in the region.

Alternative names: Population: 29.7 thous. (2019)Area: 14.64 mi²Elevation: 354 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 44°3'17"N, 5°2'52"E

Location

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'AzurFrance

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Carpentras Top Attractions

Carpentras Attractions - What to See and Explore

Carpentras offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Carpentras Cathedral, Arch of Carpentras, Bibliothèque Inguimbertine, Graineterie Roux. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Sacred and religious sites • Church • Gothic architecture
Carpentras Cathedral
Carpentras Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church and former cathedral in Carpentras, Provence, France. The church was built in the 15th century by the order of Benedict XIII. The site used to be a Roman cathedral.
Arch
Arch of Carpentras
The Arch of Carpentras is a Roman triumphal arch from the beginning of the first century AD, located at Carpentras in the French department of Vaucluse. It has a single fornix, framed by fluted lesenes and decorated with an archivolt of vine tendrils. At the outer corners there are engaged columns.
Library
Bibliothèque Inguimbertine
The Bibliothèque Inguimbertine is a scholarly library located in Carpentras. It was established by Joseph-Dominique d'Inguimbert, the Bishop of Carpentras from 1735 to 1754. It has been called "the oldest of our municipal libraries" by current chief librarian Jean-François Delmas. It currently contains about 220,000 books.

44°3'3"N • 5°2'34"E
Graineterie Roux
The Roux Graineterie of Carpentras, seed company founded in 1907, at 34 rue Bel Air Carpentras in Vaucluse, France is an outstanding example of this industry, which now has five such institutions in France of which only two are classified as historical monuments. Since the order of September 9, 2005 the building is listed as monument.
City gate
Porte d'Orange
The Porte d'Orange is located in the commune of Carpentras, north of the city center.
44°2'60"N • 5°3'0"E
Ancient Diocese of Carpentras
Carpentras was a diocese of the Roman Catholic Church in the Provence region, from the later Roman Empire until 1801. It was part of the ecclesiastical province under the Metropolitan, the Archbishop of Arles.
Memorial
Chapelle du Collège
The Carpentras Boys' College is a former educational institution, run by the Jesuits, now used as an association house and cultural space.
44°3'17"N • 5°2'57"E
Sous-préfecture
The Hôtel de Camaret is a mansion dating from the 18th century located in Carpentras, France.
44°3'44"N • 5°3'31"E
Aqueduc
The aqueduct of Carpentras is an architectural element that overhangs the river Auzon, north of Carpentras.
44°3'16"N • 5°2'50"E
Tribunal de Grande Instance
The Episcopal Palace of Carpentras, is a Building in Carpentras, in the department of Vaucluse, seat of the former bishopric, currently used as a courthouse.

Day trips

Carpentras – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Carpentras, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Palais des Papes (Avignon), Walls of Avignon (Avignon), Pont Saint-Bénézet (Avignon).

14 milesSW
14th-century papal palace with frescoes
Palais des Papes, Avignon
The Palais des Papes stands as a monumental symbol of medieval Europe and the significant role Avignon played in religious history. This fortress-like palace, located in the heart of Avignon, France, is one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in...
14 milesSW
City wall, Historical place
Walls of Avignon, Avignon
The Walls of Avignon stand as a formidable medieval fortress surrounding the historic city center of Avignon, France. Constructed primarily in the 14th century, these ramparts are a testament to Avignon's past when it was the seat of the Catholic popes and later the...
14 milesSW
Historic remains of 12th-century bridge
Pont Saint-Bénézet, Avignon
Pont Saint-Bénézet, often simply referred to as the Pont d'Avignon, is a famed medieval arch bridge that spans the Rhône River at Avignon, France. This partially ruined bridge is a significant historical landmark and offers a glimpse into the architectural prowess...
13 milesNW
, Concerts and shows, Theater
Roman Theatre of Orange, Orange
Nestled in the heart of the city of Orange, France, the Roman Theatre of Orange is a spectacular cultural landmark that offers a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Roman architecture and entertainment. This exceptionally well-preserved theater, built during the reign...
12 milesSE
Ruins, Museum, History museum
Village des Bories, Gordes
Nestled in the picturesque landscape near the renowned hilltop village of Gordes in France lies the enchanting Village des Bories, a remarkable open-air museum that transports visitors back in time. This unique historical site is famed for its collection of ancient dry...