Founded in 1118 by Saint Bernard, l’Abbaye de Fontenay is one of the oldest Cistercian monasteries created in Europe. The Romanesque gothic architecture gives this 12th century building a coherence that has survived 8 centuries of history. After visiting the monastery, you can amble through the park and gardens. The Abbey was one of the very first French sites to be registered on the UNESCO world Heritage list in 1981.
Open every day of the year:
From 12 November 2025 to 2 April 2026: from 10am to 12pm and from 2pm to 5pm for self-guided tours (no booking required) or for private guided tours (booking required).
From 3 April 2026 to 1 November 2026: 10am to 6pm for self-guided tours and regular guided tours (without prior booking).
From 2 November 2026 to April 2027: 10am to 12pm and 2pm to 5pm for self-guided tours (without prior booking) or private guided tours (by prior booking only).
Spoken languages
Label
Abbayes et sites cisterciens d'Europe
Accueil Vélo
Patrimoine Mondial de l'UNESCO
Services
Shop
Activités
Specific theme activities
Conferences
Son et lumière
Rate
Base rate - full rate adult : 11.5€ - 11.5€ Guided tour: + € 3
Special rate : 9.5€ - 9.5€ Reduced rate for students, disabled people and jobseekers.
Guided tour: + €3
Child rate : 8.5€ - 8.5€ Free for children under 6.
Children aged 7 to 12
Guided tour: + €1
Free guided tour booklet for 7-12 year-olds.
Group rate : 9.7€ - 9.7€ Group rate for 15 people or more.
For a guided tour, please allow for a fixed guide fee:
2 to 4 people: €160
5 to 14 people: €145
+ More than 15 people: €135
Special rate : 7€ - 7€ Reduced rate for students and people with disabilities: €7.
For a guided tour, a guide package is required:
2 to 4 people: €160
5 to 14 people: €145
+ More than 15 people: €135
Children's group rate : 6.4€ - 6.4€ Free for children under 6.
Children aged 7 to 12.
For a guided tour, a guide package is required:
2 to 4 people: €160
5 to 14 people: €145
+ More than 15 people: €135
