
Montmajour Abbey
Explore the grand ruins of a fortified medieval abbey, offering panoramic views and a journey into Provence's rich history.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Montmajour Abbey
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the grand ruins of a fortified medieval abbey, offering panoramic views and a journey into Provence's rich history.
"Magical and spiritual, a great starting point to discover the history of Provence."

🗣️ English Information Available
Don't worry if you don't speak French; tour leaflets and exhibit labels often have English translations.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be exploring ruins and climbing towers, so wear comfortable shoes for a better experience.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Tower Views
Top of the tower
Climb the tower for breathtaking, unforgettable views of the surrounding Provençal countryside.

12th-Century Crypt
Crypt
Explore the ancient 12th-century crypt, a fascinating glimpse into the abbey's deep historical roots.

Impressive Medieval Architecture
Abbey grounds
Wander through powerful towers, massive walls, and ancient buildings of this well-maintained medieval caste.

Spiritual and Magical Atmosphere
Chapel and grounds
Experience the magical and spiritual ambiance of this former island abbey, a truly unique setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: Plan Your Journey
Free Entry for Under 18s
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗣️ English Information Available
Don't worry if you don't speak French; tour leaflets and exhibit labels often have English translations.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be exploring ruins and climbing towers, so wear comfortable shoes for a better experience.
Combine with Nearby Sites
Consider visiting Montmajour Abbey alongside Les Baux-de-Provence for a fuller day trip.
Free Entry for Under 18s
Take advantage of free admission for children and teenagers to make it a budget-friendly family outing.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗣️ English Information Available
Don't worry if you don't speak French; tour leaflets and exhibit labels often have English translations.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be exploring ruins and climbing towers, so wear comfortable shoes for a better experience.
Combine with Nearby Sites
Consider visiting Montmajour Abbey alongside Les Baux-de-Provence for a fuller day trip.
Free Entry for Under 18s
Take advantage of free admission for children and teenagers to make it a budget-friendly family outing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Montmajour Abbey for its impressive medieval architecture, stunning panoramic views from the tower, and the fascinating historical insights it offers. The well-maintained grounds and the spiritual atmosphere are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some note that while English information is available, it's not exhaustive, and accessibility can be a concern due to the historic nature of the site.
"Visited today with my daughter who was under 18, so she got free entry!
The staff are wonderful and very friendly. I'm not french and they explained everything perfectly! Even have the tour leaflet in English, also alot of the exhibits have some English at the bottom.
We went almost there hours walking around and had an amazing time!!
Very clean and well maintained, lots to see
Highly recommend for everyone to visit"
Thomas Adams
"Very impressing medieval caste with powerful towers and massive walls. It’s a engaging journey into history. There are many corridors, halls and ancient buildings which may well impress. I think it’s well maintained."
Kirill Maksimkin
"Very peaceful, beautiful views."
Aleksandra
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Public transport options include bus line 702 from Arles, which stops at the Abbey. For a more direct route or if traveling from other nearby towns, consider a taxi or ride-sharing service. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring the region.
Yes, it's feasible. Bus line 707 can connect Montmajour Abbey to Les Baux-de-Provence. Planning your transport connections in advance is key to maximizing your time.
Driving is a convenient option. The Abbey has parking facilities available for visitors. The drive from Arles is relatively short and straightforward.
While direct shuttle services might be limited, local bus lines connect Arles to the Abbey. It's advisable to check the latest bus schedules as they can vary seasonally.
Walking is possible but quite a distance, approximately 5-6 kilometers (3-4 miles) one way. It's a scenic route but may not be practical for all visitors, especially in warmer weather.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees apply, but visitors under 18 often receive free entry. It's always best to check the official website for the most current pricing and any special offers or discounts.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance can save time, especially during peak tourist seasons. Check the official ticketing portal for availability and options.
Opening hours can vary depending on the season. Typically, the Abbey is open daily, but it's crucial to verify the current schedule on their official website before your visit.
Guided tours may be offered, providing deeper insights into the history and architecture. Information on tour availability and booking can usually be found on the Abbey's official website.
Accessibility can be challenging due to the historic nature of the site, with uneven terrain and stairs. Some areas may be difficult to access. It's recommended to contact the Abbey directly for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the impressive medieval architecture, climb the tower for panoramic views, visit the 12th-century crypt, and wander through the ancient buildings and corridors. The site offers a journey into history and a peaceful atmosphere.
Most visitors spend around 2-3 hours exploring the abbey and its grounds. If you plan to climb the tower and thoroughly explore each section, you might want to allocate a bit more time.
Restroom facilities are generally available. While there might not be a full-service cafe, there could be vending machines or a small shop selling refreshments. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks.
Photography is usually permitted for personal use, but check for any specific restrictions in certain areas, like the crypt or during special exhibitions.
Montmajour Abbey is a significant historical site, built over an ancient Roman necropolis. It was a powerful medieval abbey and offers insights into the history of Provence and monastic life.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the top of the tower are a must-capture. The abbey's imposing architecture, ancient crypt, and the chapel also offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical and cultural sites to preserve the atmosphere and protect the structures. Always check local regulations and the Abbey's specific policies before flying a drone.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light that enhances the stone architecture. Early mornings can offer softer light and fewer people, allowing for more unobstructed shots.
While general photography is usually allowed, flash photography might be prohibited in certain sensitive areas like the crypt to protect ancient artifacts.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide architectural shots and details. A wide-angle lens is great for the tower views and interior spaces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone, as there's a lot of ground to cover and stairs to climb. Pack water and snacks, as facilities might be limited. The English translations available for leaflets and exhibits will also help keep younger visitors engaged and informed.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To save further, consider utilizing public transport like bus line 702 from Arles if schedules align with your plans. Packing your own lunch and water is also a smart way to manage expenses, as on-site dining options might be limited or pricier.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through History: The Abbey's Past
Visitors can explore the remnants of its grand past, from the imposing towers and massive walls to the intricate details within the 12th-century crypt. The site has undergone improvements by a foundation, leading to better preservation and renovation of buildings, making the historical narrative more accessible.
Walking through Montmajour is like stepping back in time, offering a tangible connection to the monks who once inhabited this island sanctuary. The spiritual and magical atmosphere is palpable, making it a profound experience for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Navigating Montmajour: Transport and Accessibility
For those with a car, driving offers the most straightforward access, with parking available on-site. The journey from Arles is short and generally easy. However, the historic nature of the abbey means accessibility can be a challenge. Uneven terrain, stairs, and the general layout of ruins may pose difficulties for visitors with mobility issues.
It's always recommended to contact the Abbey directly for the most up-to-date information on transport schedules and specific accessibility details before your visit.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit