Musée de Valence

Lyon & the Rhône Valley


This great museum adjoining the cathedral offers a comprehensive and well-organised collection of art and archaeology from the Rhône Valley. Of particular interest are the superb mosaics and artefacts dating from the Roman era, as well as the series of red chalk sketches and paintings by Hubert Robert (1733–1808). There is also a lovely vaulted gallery. For knockout views of the city and the Rhône Valley, head to the top floor, which has a belvédère (viewpoint).


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Lyon & the Rhône Valley attractions

1. Cathédrale St-Apollinaire

0.03 MILES

A major landmark in the old town, this impressive cathedral dates from the late 11th century but was largely destroyed in the Wars of Religion before…

2. Maison des Têtes

0.09 MILES

Tucked along a winding lane in the historic centre, the extraordinary façade of this building blends Flamboyant Gothic and Renaissance elements from 1530…

3. Parc Jouvet

0.12 MILES

Just south of the old town, Parc Jouvet makes a pleasant setting for a stroll, with grassy lawns, tree-lined paths and water features. Kids will enjoy the…

4. Cité du Chocolat Valrhona

9.69 MILES

Death by chocolate! On the main road in Tain l'Hermitage, the Cité du Chocolat is a chocoholic's dream come true. This vast complex run by famous…

5. Parc Naturel Régional du Vercors

22.17 MILES

Mountains, limestone cliffs and dense forests create a high-drama landscape within this 2062-sq-km preserve, a few kilometres southwest of Grenoble. The…

6. Château des Adhémar

26.54 MILES

High above the old town, this 14th-century castle was built by the powerful Adhémar family. It's now used for art exhibitions as well as occasional hands…

7. Grotte de la Luire

26.63 MILES

Filled with karst springs and enormous, spectacularly lit chambers, the Grotte de la Luire was used as an emergency hospital during WWII. When it's open,…

8. Arnaud Soubeyran

28.5 MILES

Though it's located 3km south of the centre, Arnaud Soubeyran is the best place to discover the Montélimar nougat connection. An intriguing multimedia…