Best things to do in Valence

Valence Must-Sees

Valence's historic center is defined by a blend of Romanesque and Renaissance architecture. Key sites include the 11th-century Cathédrale Saint-Apollinaire and the Maison des Têtes, a 16th-century residence known for its intricate facade of sculpted figures. The city's religious history is preserved in the former Abbey of Saint-Ruf and the 1548 Pendentif funerary monument. Cultural highlights include the Musée d'Art et d'Archéologie, housed in a former episcopal palace, and the iconic 1862 Kiosque Peynet music pavilion.

Valence Must-Sees — Map

A

Maison des Têtes

An early 16th-century residence featuring a facade decorated with numerous sculpted heads. It represents the transition from Flamboyant Gothic to Renaissance architectural styles.

B

Valence Cathedral

Valence Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church in Valence, Drôme, France. The cathedral is in the Romanesque architectural tradition.

C

Église Saint-jean-Baptiste de Valence

Historic Catholic church located in the old town's Place Saint-Jean. It serves as a central landmark in the medieval quarter with significant regional heritage status.

D

Ancienne Abbaye Notre-Dame de Soyons

A former Benedictine abbey for women, this site is a key component of the city's regional religious heritage.

E

Musée d'Art et d'Archéologie de Valence

Housed in the former episcopal palace, this museum features extensive collections spanning art, archaeology, and natural history, offering views over the Rhône Valley.

F

Kiosque Peynet

An 1862 bandstand located in Champ de Mars. It gained fame after inspiring artist Raymond Peynet’s famous 'Les Amoureux' illustrations in 1942.

G

Le Pendentif

A unique Renaissance funerary monument built in 1548 for Canon Mistral, located within the former cloister of the cathedral.

H

Maison Dupré-Latour

A former private mansion on Rue Pérollerie, notable for its 16th-century architectural details and its well-preserved courtyard.

I

Ancien Hôtel de Pampelonne

A designated regional heritage site and historic private mansion in the heart of the city.

J

Ancienne Abbaye de Saint-Ruf "le Haut"

A former religious complex in the Saint-Jean district, reflecting the city's medieval monastic history and the influence of the Saint-Ruf order.

K

Temple Saint-Ruf de Valence

A Protestant place of worship occupying the former church of the Saint-Ruf Abbey, featuring historic architectural elements from its monastic past.

Other Lists

Valence Heritage Trail Valence Religious Heritage Parks and Recreational Areas