At the Musée de l’Industrie textile in Vienne, visitors can follow a specific production process, from raw wool to finished textiles. The museum also explores the history of cloth and many aspects of workers’ lives. Those interested in textile production will encounter both the product and the worlds of those whose lives were connected with this work.
The Musées de Vienne are spread across four locations and trace the city’s history from the Neolithic period to the 20th century. The Salle du Patrimoine has a specific focus: since 1999, it has presented a permanent exhibition on Vienne’s urban development from prehistory to the present day. The four locations provide the setting for a long history of the city, while the permanent exhibition focuses on its development.
Roman heritage and historic architecture
The Temple of Augustus and Livia was built around 20–10 BC and dedicated to the cult of Rome and Augustus. In the archaeological garden of Cybèle, visitors can see the remains of the forum in the institutional district of a Gallo-Roman city. Saint-Maurice Cathedral features the Flamboyant Gothic style—a different architectural approach from that of the ancient remains.
The cloister of Saint-André-le-Bas displays exceptional collections of inscribed tombstones dating from the 5th to the 12th or 14th century. Temporary exhibitions are also held there throughout the year; their dates may change. Check the current exhibition schedule before your visit.
Marked walking routes through Vienne
The Chemins du patrimoine is a 3.5-kilometre walking route. Nails set into the ground and decorated with an elm tree mark the way. Information panels and a free smartphone app explain Vienne’s architecture and history. The ground markers show the route, while the panels and app provide further information. As the route markers may change and the app’s availability and content may vary, check the latest information in advance.
The orientation trail in the Vallée de Gère has twelve stops with explanations along the route. The route described runs from the social centre to the Musée de la Draperie, then along the banks of the Gère. Unlike the 3.5-kilometre Chemins du patrimoine route, the stops and the route described here serve as the specific points of reference. Route details may change, so check the latest information in advance.
Saturday market in the city centre
Vienne’s market takes place every Saturday in the city centre and stretches for six kilometres of market stalls. It offers delicacies, as well as local products and goods from other regions. If the market is part of your travel plans, you can factor Saturday into your itinerary.
Discover more destinations: Chantelouve, Montferrat, Crémieu, Roussillon En Isere, Chavanoz, Septème, Chonas-L'amballan, Salaise-Sur-Sanne.
For the broader travel overview: Isere.
