Things to do in Vezelay

Activities, attractions and tours

Vézelay Abbey or Abbaye Sainte-Marie-Madeleine de Vézelay is a Benedictine and Cluniac monastery in Vézelay in the Yonne department in northern Burgundy, France. The Benedictine abbey church, now the Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, with its complicated program of imagery in sculpted capitals and portals, is one of the outstanding masterpieces of Burgundian Romanesque art and architecture. Sacked by the Huguenots in 1569, the building suffered neglect in the 17th and the 18th centuries and some further damage during the period of the French Revolution. The church and hill at Vézelay were added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 1979.
Vézelay Abbey or Abbaye Sainte-Marie-Madeleine de Vézelay is a Benedictine and Cluniac monastery in Vézelay in the Yonne department in northern Burgundy, France. The Benedictine abbey church, now the Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, with its complicated program of imagery in sculpted capitals and portals, is one of the outstanding masterpieces of Burgundian Romanesque art and architecture. Sacked by the Huguenots in 1569, the building suffered neglect in the 17th and the 18th centuries and some further damage during the period of the French Revolution. The church and hill at Vézelay were added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 1979.
The famous tympanum of the basilica dates back to the 12th century. It represents the origins of the Church, with Christ who blesses the apostles and instructs them to convert the nations. (The basilica is Unesco World Heritage). #Culture #LocalSecrets #Trovember #History
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What to do in Vezelay

Popular places to visit

Vézelay Abbey or Abbaye Sainte-Marie-Madeleine de Vézelay is a Benedictine and Cluniac monastery in Vézelay in the Yonne department in northern Burgundy, France. The Benedictine abbey church, now the Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, with its complicated program of imagery in sculpted capitals and portals, is one of the outstanding masterpieces of Burgundian Romanesque art and architecture. Sacked by the Huguenots in 1569, the building suffered neglect in the 17th and the 18th centuries and some further damage during the period of the French Revolution. The church and hill at Vézelay were added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 1979.

Eternity's Hill

Find out about the history of Vezelay when you spend time at Eternity's Hill. Discover the area's art scene and cathedral.

Eternity's Hill

Maison Jules Roy

You can learn about the history of Vezelay with a visit to Maison Jules Roy. Discover the area's countryside and cathedral.

Maison Jules Roy

Zervoz Museum

You can study the exhibits at Zervoz Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Vezelay. Discover the area's countryside and cathedral.

Zervoz Museum

La Maison du Visiteur

Enjoy an outing to La Maison du Visiteur during your stay in Vezelay. Make time to visit the cathedral and monuments while you're in the area.

La Maison du Visiteur

Areas of Vezelay

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Le Clos

Travellers enjoy Le Clos for its monuments and historical sites. Consider checking out Eternity's Hill while you're in the area.

Le Clos
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Corbigny

Corbigny might not have many top sights, but Eternity's Hill and Vezelay Abbey are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Corbigny
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Le Cotat Berlin

While Le Cotat Berlin isn't home to many top sights, Maison Jules Roy and Eternity's Hill are some notable places to visit nearby.

Le Cotat Berlin
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Le Poiron

While there might not be top attractions in Le Poiron, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Eternity's Hill and Vezelay Abbey.

Le Poiron
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Le Verger

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Le Verger and surrounding area, you can visit Eternity's Hill and Vezelay Abbey.

Le Verger
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Les Creuses

While Les Creuses may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Eternity's Hill and Vezelay Abbey.

Les Creuses

Frequently asked questions

Is Vezelay worth visiting?
Vezelay has an interesting mix of culture, local charm and attractions. Whether you're into outdoor activities, history or regional cuisine, there's a lot here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in Vezelay?
After you've checked off top attractions like Château de Bazoches and Caves of Arcy-sur-Cure, spend the rest of your day experiencing Vezelay's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Vezelay?
The top tourist attraction in Vezelay is Château de Bazoches, so make sure to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Vezelay?
You can easily enjoy leading attractions like Domaine Maria Cluny, Zervoz Museum and Domaine La Croix Montjoie with a three-day stay in Vezelay. On average, many travellers book two days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so linger longer and venture to Auxerre.
Is Vezelay a walkable city?
Some top sights in Vezelay, including Domaine Maria Cluny and Zervoz Museum, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Just 0.32 kilometres from central Vezelay is Le Clos and Les Creuses is 0.48 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Vezelay with kids?
Planning what to do in Vezelay with kids has never been easier. Whether you're travelling with teenagers or little ones, there's no shortage of family-friendly sights and activities to keep everyone happy here.

What to do in Vezelay for adults?
Domaine Maria Cluny and Domaine La Croix Montjoie are just two of the things to do in Vezelay. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Vezelay?
From enjoying parks to wandering around exciting neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Vezelay. If you're in need of ideas, get some recommendations from a local tour guide. Zervoz Museum is a must for anyone looking to save on their sightseeing activities.