In the center with its streets bathed in coolness and light, one discovers the wealth of its history. There is the Porte d'Orange, ruins of the old fortress, the episcopal palace, St. Siffrein Cathedral, the Hôtel Dieu and its superb18th c. pharmacy.

Take particular notice of the façades that you see for some are 17th and 18th c. private mansions bearing remarkable doors and balconies restored in the true Provençal tradition.

Since Antiquitiy, Carpentras has been a city of commerce with the Greeks and the Phocaeans coming to the market here for honey, wheat, and sheep.

It has kept this tradition and every Friday morning the colorful market attracts people from all over the region, It must not be missed!

The St. Siffrein Fair is also a great moment in the life of Carpentras, it begins on the 27th of November and coincides with the equally famous black truffle market. Excellent candied fruit, strawberries, melon, bonbons "berlingots" and grapes ( used for the wine Cotes de Ventoux) are all specialities claimed by the city of Carpentras.

On the outskirts of the city there are numerous marked trails where one can walk and admire the local fauna and flora. The Tourist Office will be happy to provide you with a map showing 5 different excursions in the area, one of which is a wine circuit-wine lovers take notice!