Sisteron
Last update on
Sep 18, 2026
185 km from Nice, 135 Km from Marseille and 130 km from Avignon. A51 road Aix-Sisteron or RN 85 road or RN 100 from Forcalquier.
Discover Sisteron, a marvel of the Alpes de Haute Provence
Known as “the pearl of Haute Provence,” Sisteron is a historic town that has seen both glory and misery throughout its history. Today, it is one of the leading towns in the Alpes de Haute Provence.
Where to stay
It enjoys Mediterranean sunshine in a setting that already hints at the high mountains of the Alps. The richness of its extraordinary historical heritage, combined with its exceptional natural environment, is sure to charm you.
What to see in Sisteron?
Here are the monuments and neighborhoods we think you shouldn't miss during your visit to Sisteron.
The Citadel-Fortress
The Citadel-Fortress, which crowns the town on its rock and dominates the Durance River, is an architectural ensemble from various periods (12th, 14th, 16th, 17th, and 19th centuries) that now houses the Notre-Dame du Château chapel and two museums. It is the city's most famous monument. Perched on its rock, it is the symbol of the city.
The old town
At its feet, the old town with its old tiled roofs borders the steep riverbank. You will love its small squares planted with trees or featuring a fountain, which open up here and there at the bend of a small alleyway.
The Rocher de la Baume
The Rocher de la Baume faces Sisteron with its vertical limestone strata. It is a geological curiosity that gives the town of Sisteron its charm. This natural formation also offers magnificent panoramic views across the valley.
Small beaches on the river
The terraces of the Citadel offer the best view of the old town and the riverbanks. Small beaches have been created at the water's edge, much to the delight of young and old alike on hot summer days.
What to do in Sisteron?
Here are a few ideas for activities in the town:
Tree climbing at the foot of the Citadel
Adventure lovers will find what they are looking for at Sisteron Aventures, a tree climbing park located at the foot of the citadel with courses suitable for all ages from 3 years old. The site also offers packages for birthdays and group outings.
Hiking
The hike to the Rocher de la Baume offers a magnificent view of Sisteron and the surrounding valleys. The Trou d'Argent is the most spectacular hike with a 680-meter elevation gain and a cave crossing in the cliff.
Climbing and free flying for adventurers
You can go climbing in Orpierre, free flying in Chabre, caving or canoeing on the Durance and Buëch rivers. The Grande Fistoire via ferrata in La Motte-du-Caire offers the longest via ferrata footbridge in Europe at 60 meters.
Good restaurants and markets for food lovers
The local cuisine can be discovered in the many restaurants in the town center. The Wednesday and Saturday morning markets on the Place de l'Horloge are the perfect place to sample Sisteron Label Rouge lamb and Provençal specialties.
Events in Sisteron
Sisteron is a cultural hub with many events and activities:
The Citadel Nights Festival
The Citadel Nights Festival is the major cultural event of the summer. This historic event celebrates its 70th anniversary in 2025 with a program running from July 18 to August 13. The program includes the Junior Ballet of the Paris Opera, Nemanja Radulovic, and Natalie Dessay in the magnificent setting of the Citadel Theater.
The Lamb Festival
The Lamb Festival takes place every spring with an exceptional program. It features a transhumance through the city, shearing demonstrations, a large farmers' market, and spit-roasted lamb meals. The 2025 edition will celebrate 30 years of the Sisteron Lamb Label Rouge.
The Passage du Fort
Le Passage du Fort brings the town to life every two years in August. This medieval festival transforms the historic center with a craft market, torchlight parades, and shows in the citadel. The next edition will take place on August 18 and 19, 2026.
Sist'en Rires
For several years now, Sist'en Rires has been hosting a comedy festival in March. This festival presents joint performances by three comedians at the Alcazar theater.
Exhibitions and art galleries
Exhibitions are held throughout the year at the Citadel and in art galleries in the city center. The local calendar also features concerts, dances, fairs, and sporting events in all the villages in the area.
What to see
Citadel. Notre Dame du Chateau Chapel.
Notre Dame des Pommiers Cathedral (1200).
St. Dominique Convent (1248,1620). St. Marcel Church (12thc.).
City towers (1370), old city, ruins of the Cordeliers Convent.
Things to do
Hiking on marked trails. Botanical trails. Fishing. Guarded swimming.
Tennis. Swimming pool. Minigolf, Climbing, Horseback riding.
Gliding. Paragliding. ULM. Excursions. Guided tours of the city.
Slide show. Exhibitions. Festival of classical music. Cinemas.
Night Club. Scout Museum.
Hotels
Rooms, suites, and family rooms for 4 people
Traditional restaurant, bar, terrace with a panoramic view
In the city center, at the foot of the citadel, a 5-minute walk from the lake
99€ - 150€
Airbnb
Discover our selection of houses, villas and apartments on Airbnb for an authentic stay in this Provençal village. You will love your vacation here.
Accommodation
Hotels.
Bed and breakfast.
Vacation rentals.
Campsite.
Your questions about Sisteron
You have sent us several questions about Sisteron. Here are our answers to your most frequently asked questions.
What is the weather like in Sisteron through the seasons?
Plan your stay around the season. Temperatures range from 30°F to 84°F, with a very sunny stretch from May to September. July and August are the best bet: an average of 68°F and only 1.6 inches of rain. Sisteron gets more than 2,800 hours of sunshine a year. For the best weather, aim for the April to October window.
How do you get to Sisteron?
Pick your route based on where you're coming from. From the south, take the A51 freeway and exit at Sisteron-Sud (handier for the center) or Sisteron-Nord. From the north, follow the Route Napoléon (RN85) for a scenic drive. By public transportation, use the SNCF stations at Sisteron or Laragne-Montéglin. If you're flying in, Marseille-Provence is the most convenient airport, with access via the A51.
Why is Sisteron lamb so well known?
Sisteron lamb has carried the Label Rouge since 1995 and a European PGI since 2007. Its reputation goes back to the 1920s, when meat wholesalers picked out the best lambs for prestigious tables. Raised for 70 to 150 days by ewes of hardy Provençal breeds, it yields pale, tender and flavorful meat. It was served to Queen Elizabeth II at the Élysée Palace in 2014. It's the signature dish of the town's restaurants.
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