Things To Do
in Carpentras
Carpentras is a historic town in the Vaucluse department of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, set among vineyards and rolling hills. Its maze-like old town features sun-bleached façades, arcaded passages, and monuments dating back to Roman and medieval times. The Sunday market is a beloved ritual, drawing locals and visitors with fresh produce, textiles, and Provençal treats.
Surrounded by the Dentelles de Montmirail and Mont Ventoux, Carpentras serves as a convenient base for vineyard tastings and scenic hikes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh croissants and coffee while enjoying the ambiance of the town square. After breakfast, stroll through the narrow, cobbled streets of Carpentras, taking in the stunning architecture of the historic buildings. Don’t miss the iconic Carpentras Cathedral, where you can admire its impressive façade and intricate stained glass windows.
After lunch at a charming bistro, visit the Palais des Evêques, a former bishop's palace, to explore its rich history and fascinating exhibitions. Take a leisurely walk through the bustling market streets, where you can browse local artisanal products and fresh produce. As the afternoon sun begins to set, visit the nearby ancient Roman ruins that echo the town's storied past.
Dine at a local restaurant known for its Provençal cuisine, where you can indulge in dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. After dinner, take a peaceful evening stroll along the town's tree-lined avenues, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere as locals gather in the squares. Finish your day with a glass of local wine at a cozy wine bar, sharing stories about your adventures with fellow travelers.
Set out early to visit the stunning lavender fields surrounding Carpentras, which are especially vibrant during the summer months. Capture the breathtaking views with your camera as you wander through the vibrant purple rows and breathe in the soothing scent of lavender. Enjoy a picnic breakfast amidst the fields, surrounded by the enchanting landscape.
After exploring the lavender fields, head to a nearby distillery to learn about the process of lavender oil extraction, and maybe even participate in a sampling session. Spend your afternoon visiting the quaint village of Gordes, known for its beautiful stone architecture and panoramic views of the Luberon Valley. Take time to enjoy the local shops and art galleries that showcase the work of talented regional artists.
Return to Carpentras in the evening and enjoy a traditional Provençal dinner at a local restaurant, where seasonal dishes highlight the flavors of the region. After dinner, unwind at a nearby café, sipping on herbal tea or a glass of local liqueur while enjoying the lively atmosphere. If you’re lucky, you might catch a local music performance or festival happening in the town square.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $70-130 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-6 |
| 🍷Bottle of local wine | $8-25 |
| 🛍️Souvenir/shopping | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic charm and central Provence location
- Vibrant markets and easy access to vineyards and mountains
- Walkable historic center with photogenic streets
- Relaxed, friendly Provençal atmosphere
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Summer heat can be intense and markets crowded on market days
- Some attractions require short drives or tours from Carpentras
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is... ?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does this cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît." - The check, please.
- "Je suis végétarien/végétarienne." - I am vegetarian.
- "Pouvez-vous m'aider ?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Carpentras
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic-Romanesque façade and interior with light filtering through stained glass; a strong subject for architecture and detail shots.
Vibrant square with colorful façades and shaded arcades; ideal for street photography and candid market scenes.
Interior market hall with geometric stalls, produce displays, and characterful light from skylights.
Narrow lanes, stone walls, and steps around the historic core provide atmospheric, texture-rich compositions.
Food in Carpentras
Carpentras Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Garlic mayonnaise served with boiled eggs, potatoes, vegetables, and cod or fish; a staple at Provencal tables.
Must-Try!
Classic Provencal stew of peppers, zucchini, eggplant, tomatoes, and herbs, perfect with crusty bread or as a side.
A basil-pesto flavored vegetable soup with pasta, a comforting spring-to-autumn dish in the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Renowned weekly market showcasing fresh produce, cheeses, olives, and local specialties; a great place to sample street-food snacks and mingle with locals.
A traditional covered market hall where vendors sell meat, seafood, cheeses, and prepared Provencal bites—ideal for a quick lunch or picnic supplies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Bonjour' (morning) or 'Bonsoir' (evening). A courteous tone goes a long way in shops and cafes.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak quietly and avoid loud behavior inside sacred spaces.
Smiles and friendliness are common; in markets, queue politely and keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas.
Safety
Tipping in Carpentras
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is often included in higher-end restaurants; additional tipping of 5-10% is appreciated for good service in cafés and smaller restaurants.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for markets and small vendors; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming gardens make it ideal for walking and photography; markets begin to fill with fresh produce and herbs.
Hot, dry days require sun protection and hydration; evenings are lively with cafe terraces and outdoor events.
Harvest season brings rich harvest colors and wine-tasting opportunities; pleasant temperatures for long strolls.
Cooler, with occasional rain; the town is quieter but festive around holidays; great for museum visits and cozy dining.
Carpentras at Night
Hiking in Carpentras
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic high-mountain routes with panoramic views; suitable for experienced hikers and ambitious day trips.
Spectacular ridge formations with moderate-to-classic hiking trails through wine country near Gigondas and Vacqueyras.
Gentler trails and scenic countryside close to Carpentras for easier day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Carpentras by plane.
Closest major airport with regional and some international connections; handy for quick arrivals to the area.
Larger international hub about 100-120 km away; good for longer international trips and onward travel.
Regional airport within reach for domestic and some European flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, retirees, and local professionals, with a growing number of visitors in peak seasons.
Seasonal visitors, especially on Sundays for the market and during wine-testival periods and hiking seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A beloved local pursuit, with routes through vineyards and up toward Ventoux and Dentelles de Montmirail.
A common pastime in local clubs and parks; matches can be enjoyed in town during season.
A traditional boules game played in plazas and courtyards across Provence.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Carpentras.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Provencal dishes are vegetable-forward; look for ratatouille, pistou soups, and vegetable-based entrées. When ordering, ask for sans viande or sans poisson and confirm with the server.