Things to do in Vezelay

Activities, attractions and tours

Historic town of Vezelay with famous Abbey, Burgundy, France
Historic town of Vezelay with famous Abbey, Burgundy, France
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

Zervoz Museum

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

Zervoz Museum

Maison Jules Roy

You can learn about the history of Vezelay when you stop by Maison Jules Roy. Discover the area's countryside and cathedral.

Maison Jules Roy

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 Verger

While Le Verger isn't home to many top sights, Vezelay Abbey and Zervoz Museum are some notable places to visit nearby.

Le Verger
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Les Creuses

When in Les Creuses, you can plan a visit to Vezelay Abbey and Eternity's Hill, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Les Creuses
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Corbigny

While there might not be top attractions in Corbigny, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Vezelay Abbey and Zervoz Museum.

Corbigny
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Le Clos

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

Le Clos
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Le Cotat Berlin

While Le Cotat Berlin might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Zervoz Museum and Vezelay Abbey.

Le Cotat Berlin
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Le Poiron

Le Poiron might not have many top sights, but Vezelay Abbey and Zervoz Museum are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Le Poiron

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 travelers 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 neighborhoods on foot. Just 0.32 kilometers from central Vezelay is Le Clos and Les Creuses is 0.48 kilometers 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 traveling 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 neighborhoods, 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.