European Archaeology Days
Explore the mysteries of the past in Auxerre with special guided tours and archaeological demonstrations.
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Auxerre
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City
ℹ️Practical info — Auxerre
▾
🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- Cross the pedestrian footbridge (Passerelle) over the Yonne river at sunset for the most iconic photo of the town's skyline.
- The historic center is almost entirely cobbled; leave high heels at the hotel to walk comfortably.
- To see the famous Carolingian crypts at Saint-Germain Abbey, check the tourist office schedule as guided access is frequently required.
- Rent an electric boat or a bicycle to explore the peaceful, tree-lined Canal du Nivernais just outside town.
🍽 Food
🍽
Bœuf Bourguignon
Try this slow-cooked regional classic at a traditional brasserie in the waterside Quartier de la Marine.
🍽
Gougères
Pick up these savory cheese puffs from artisan bakeries in the historic center; they make a well-suited walking snack.
🍽
Chablis Wine
Taste the region's world-famous crisp white wine at cozy wine bars situated around Place Saint-Nicolas.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
🛍
Place de l'Hôtel de Ville Market
Visit the Tuesday or Friday markets to discover fine Burgundy cheeses and local truffle products.
🛍
Quartier de l'Horloge
Stroll the pedestrian streets around the clock tower to shop for local crafts and authentic Burgundy mustard.
🧘
Clos de la Chaînette
Walk past this historic inner-city vineyard for a surprisingly tranquil view right within the urban area.
🧘
Quai de la République
Enjoy a peaceful riverside walk along the Yonne, heading slightly away from the busiest bridges.
Water temperature…
Highlights of 2026
10
Digital Workshop Jacques-Lacarrière
Enhance your digital skills during this practical workshop held at the Jacques-Lacarrière media library.
Parblex! – A Unique Performance
Discover an original and entertaining show full of surprises and creative flair in Auxerre.
Show: The Tree is in its Leaves
A poetic and nature-inspired performance celebrating the beauty of trees and the environment in Auxerre.
Storytelling at the Library
A playful storytelling event for children at the Colette library, bringing tales to life in Auxerre.
Pierre Alechinsky Exhibition
Admire the remarkable works of the celebrated artist Pierre Alechinsky in this focused exhibition in Auxerre.
Flash Tour: The Sacred River
A quick and engaging guided tour exploring the river's history and its sacred role for the community.
Creative Writing Workshop
Unleash your imagination during this playful and inspiring writing workshop at the Colette library in Auxerre.
Escape Game: The Pharaoh's Tomb
Solve mysteries and escape from the Pharaoh's tomb in this immersive Jacques-Lacarrière experience.
Quiz Night
Test your knowledge and enjoy a fun-filled quiz competition with friends and family.
Auxerre is a magnificent city of art and history located in the heart of Burgundy, serving as the prefecture of the Yonne department. It rises elegantly above the Yonne river, presenting a skyline dominated by three grand religious monuments: the Gothic Saint-Étienne Cathedral, the Abbey of Saint-Germain, and the Church of Saint-Pierre. The cathedral is renowned for its 13th-century stained glass and rare frescoes found within its ancient crypts. The nearby Abbey of Saint-Germain is home to some of the oldest Carolingian crypts in France, dating back over a thousand years. The town's medieval core is exceptionally well-preserved, featuring winding streets lined with half-timbered houses and the iconic 15th-century Clock Tower (Tour de l'Horloge). Auxerre's history is deeply intertwined with the production and trade of Burgundy wine, notably the nearby Chablis vineyards. The city gained modern fame through its legendary football club, AJ Auxerre, and its long-time manager Guy Roux. Today, it remains a spirited cultural hub, offering a blend of river-side leisure, gastronomic excellence, and centuries of architectural heritage.
- Location: Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, France
- Top sights: Cathédrale Saint-Étienne · Abbaye Saint-Germain · Tour de l'Horloge
- Nearby: Migennes (19 km)
- Population: ~36.804
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 2 | 3 | 6 | 10 | 14 | 18 | 20 | 20 | 16 | 12 | 6 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 59 | 50 | 56 | 50 | 76 | 61 | 61 | 61 | 51 | 69 | 63 | 69 |
Live webcam – Auxerre
See what it looks like near Auxerre right now.
Auxerre: N6 PR83+500 · 2.5 km · Open webcam on Windy · Webcams provided by Windy.com
Geography
Facts
- Cathedral built between: 13th-16th centuries.
- Population: approx. 36,804.
- Area: 49.95 km².
- Abbey of Saint-Germain founded: 5th century.
- Half-timbered houses: approx. 500.
- Proximity to Chablis vineyards: approx. 20 km.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
A day in the city
Pick weather + travel mode, get a concrete day plan.
09:00→16:441.9 km walk6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 24–32 €Entries 28€ · Transport 0€
Start your morning at the iconic Clock Tower before diving into local art at the museum. Midday is perfect for admiring the Saint-Eusèbe church and the majestic Gothic cathedral. In the afternoon, cross the river bridge for stunning photos, and conclude your walking tour at the historic abbey.
← swipe for more places →
🏛️
09:10 · 80'
Tour de l'Horloge
Marvel at the 15th-century clock tower dominating the historic old town, and make sure to observe its unique astronomical dials before strolling the pedestrian zone.
🚶 11'0.42 km
🎨
10:41 · 100'
Musée Leblanc-Duvernoy
Explore this welcoming 18th-century mansion housing an exquisite collection of regional faience and tapestries, offering a glimpse into local aristocratic life.
🚶 9'0.28 km
⛪
12:30 · 50'
Église Saint-Eusèbe
Observe the seamless blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture in this historic church, and be sure to admire the memorable 16th-century stained glass windows.
🚶 16'0.63 km
⛪
13:36 · 50'
Cathédrale Saint-Étienne
Visit this striking Gothic cathedral renowned for its sculpted portals, and make sure to descend into the crypt to view the incredibly rare 11th-century frescoes.
🚶 7'0.2 km
📍
14:33 · 45'
Passerelle de l'Yonne
Walk across this modern pedestrian bridge to capture dramatic panoramic photos of the river, the historic old town, and the majestic cathedral skyline.
🚶 11'0.39 km
📍
15:29 · 45'
Abbaye Saint-Germain
Delve into the history of this Carolingian abbey, and book a guided tour of the crypts to witness the oldest surviving Christian frescoes in France.
09:00→16:441.9 km walk6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 24–32 €Entries 28€ · Transport 0€
Start your wet morning under your umbrella near the clock tower, then escape the rain in the museum. By noon, the churches offer dry, peaceful sanctuaries. In the afternoon, cross the river carefully on wet surfaces. End your day inside the ancient abbey walls.
← swipe for more places →
🏛️
09:10 · 80'
Tour de l'Horloge
Admire the intricate clock face from under your umbrella, but watch your step on the slick cobblestones below.
🚶 11'0.42 km
🎨
10:41 · 100'
Musée Leblanc-Duvernoy
Explore the beautiful tapestries and ceramics inside, providing an excellent, dry cultural escape from the steady rain.
🚶 9'0.28 km
⛪
12:30 · 50'
Église Saint-Eusèbe
Discover striking architecture and stained glass in this dry sanctuary, convenient for shaking off the rain for a quiet moment.
🚶 16'0.63 km
⛪
13:36 · 50'
Cathédrale Saint-Étienne
The majestic Gothic interior is a first-rate rainy-day refuge; watch how subdued light filters through damp stained glass.
🚶 7'0.2 km
📍
14:33 · 45'
Passerelle de l'Yonne
Take a quick photo of the misty river views, but hold onto the handrails tightly as the wet wooden planks get slippery.
🚶 11'0.39 km
📍
15:29 · 45'
Abbaye Saint-Germain
Delve into the fascinating crypts and indoor exhibitions, an excellent way to spend a wet afternoon entirely shielded.
09:00→16:441.9 km walk6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 24–32 €Entries 28€ · Transport 0€
Bundle up for a crisp winter morning at the clock tower before warming up in the museum. Midday brings a serene atmosphere to the unheated historic churches, so keep your coat on. As the sun sets early, enjoy a brisk afternoon walk over the river to the abbey.
← swipe for more places →
🏛️
09:10 · 80'
Tour de l'Horloge
Marvel at the golden astronomical clock against the grey winter sky; wear warm gloves for taking outdoor photos here.
🚶 11'0.42 km
🎨
10:41 · 100'
Musée Leblanc-Duvernoy
Enjoy the cozy, heated rooms showcasing fine porcelain and art, offering a welcome break from the freezing winter winds.
🚶 9'0.28 km
⛪
12:30 · 50'
Église Saint-Eusèbe
The stone floors are freezing in winter, so keep your heavy boots on while admiring the serene, dimly lit historic interior.
🚶 16'0.63 km
⛪
13:36 · 50'
Cathédrale Saint-Étienne
Marvel at the striking Gothic arches, but keep your winter coat zipped up as the vast stone cathedral can be very chilly.
🚶 7'0.2 km
📍
14:33 · 45'
Passerelle de l'Yonne
Enjoy the stark, frosty views over the river Yonne, but wrap your scarf tight to block the biting wind crossing the bridge.
🚶 11'0.39 km
📍
15:29 · 45'
Abbaye Saint-Germain
Explore the ancient crypts before the early sunset around 5 PM; the subterranean levels feel surprisingly insulated.
09:00→15:293.2 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 27–37 €Entries 20€ · Transport 12€
Your cycling adventure begins at the historic abbey and flows naturally toward the magnificent cathedral. Midday, pedal to the iconic Clock Tower and the nearby church. In the afternoon, cross the scenic river bridge to unwind in the expansive greenery of the L'Arbre-Sec park.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Abbaye Saint-Germain
Delve into the history of this Carolingian abbey, and book a guided tour of the crypts to witness the oldest surviving Christian frescoes in France.
🚲 5'0.29 km
⛪
10:00 · 50'
Cathédrale Saint-Étienne
Visit this remarkable Gothic cathedral renowned for its sculpted portals, and make sure to descend into the crypt to view the incredibly rare 11th-century frescoes.
🚲 5'0.39 km
🏛️
10:55 · 80'
Tour de l'Horloge
Marvel at the 15th-century clock tower dominating the historic old town, and make sure to observe its unique astronomical dials before strolling the pedestrian zone.
🚲 4'0.24 km
⛪
12:19 · 50'
Église Saint-Eusèbe
Observe the seamless blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture in this historic church, and be sure to admire the striking 16th-century stained glass windows.
🚲 8'0.76 km
📍
13:17 · 45'
Passerelle de l'Yonne
Walk across this modern pedestrian bridge to capture dramatic panoramic photos of the river, the historic old town, and the majestic cathedral skyline.
🚲 12'1.56 km
📍
14:14 · 45'
Aire de Jeux du stade nautique de l'Arbre-Sec
Let the children burn off some energy at this spacious riverside playground, and enjoy a relaxing family picnic under the trees to perfectly conclude your day.
09:00→15:293.2 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 27–37 €Entries 20€ · Transport 12€
Put on your rain gear for a wet morning ride to the abbey and cathedral. By midday, navigate the slippery historic center towards the clock tower and church. In the afternoon, carefully cross the slick pedestrian bridge and end at the park.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Abbaye Saint-Germain
Keep your bike locked securely and step inside the crypts to shelter from the heavy morning downpours.
🚲 5'0.29 km
⛪
10:00 · 50'
Cathédrale Saint-Étienne
Park your bike and dry off inside this massive Gothic structure; watch out for slippery wet steps at the entrance.
🚲 5'0.39 km
🏛️
10:55 · 80'
Tour de l'Horloge
Brake carefully on the slick cobblestones around the tower and enjoy the view safely under your rain hood.
🚲 4'0.24 km
⛪
12:19 · 50'
Église Saint-Eusèbe
A quiet, dry stop on your wet ride; wipe down your bike seat before continuing through the persistent rain.
🚲 8'0.76 km
📍
13:17 · 45'
Passerelle de l'Yonne
Dismount and walk your bike across this wooden bridge, as the wet planks are extremely slippery for tires.
🚲 12'1.56 km
📍
14:14 · 45'
Aire de Jeux du stade nautique de l'Arbre-Sec
The park trails might be muddy, so stick to the paved paths and wear your waterproof cycling gear here.
09:00→15:293.2 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 27–37 €Entries 20€ · Transport 12€
Wear thermal layers for a frosty morning ride to the majestic abbey and cathedral. Around noon, pedal through the crisp air to the clock tower. With the sun setting early, rush across the river in the freezing wind to finish before dark.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Abbaye Saint-Germain
Pedal briskly to the abbey to warm up; the ancient indoor crypts are surprisingly shielded from the winter frost.
🚲 5'0.29 km
⛪
10:00 · 50'
Cathédrale Saint-Étienne
The icy winds around the cathedral square are biting, so park quickly and seek shelter inside the stone walls.
🚲 5'0.39 km
🏛️
10:55 · 80'
Tour de l'Horloge
Snap a photo of the golden clock in the winter sun, but keep your cycling gloves on to prevent freezing fingers.
🚲 4'0.24 km
⛪
12:19 · 50'
Église Saint-Eusèbe
Step inside this unheated but peaceful church to escape the biting winter wind during your chilly bike tour.
🚲 8'0.76 km
📍
13:17 · 45'
Passerelle de l'Yonne
The frosty breeze off the river is freezing; cross quickly and carefully on your bike before the early sunset.
🚲 12'1.56 km
📍
14:14 · 45'
Aire de Jeux du stade nautique de l'Arbre-Sec
Finish your frosty ride before 5 PM to avoid cycling in the dark; the park is peaceful in the winter cold.
09:00→16:165.1 km drive6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 26–36 €Entries 30€ · Transport 1€
Begin the day with a fun pirate adventure perfect for families, then drive to the historic abbey and cathedral. Midday allows you to explore the Clock Tower and the museum in the city center. Late afternoon provides the perfect opportunity to relax at the large riverside playground.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Corsaires et Pirates
Kick off your morning at this exciting pirate-themed indoor playground, which provides fantastic, weather-proof entertainment that younger children will absolutely love.
🚗 8'1.57 km
📍
10:03 · 45'
Abbaye Saint-Germain
Delve into the history of this Carolingian abbey, and book a guided tour of the crypts to witness the oldest surviving Christian frescoes in France.
🚗 4'0.29 km
⛪
10:52 · 50'
Cathédrale Saint-Étienne
Visit this memorable Gothic cathedral renowned for its sculpted portals, and make sure to descend into the crypt to view the incredibly rare 11th-century frescoes.
🚗 4'0.39 km
🏛️
11:46 · 80'
Tour de l'Horloge
Marvel at the 15th-century clock tower dominating the historic old town, and make sure to observe its unique astronomical dials before strolling the pedestrian zone.
🚗 4'0.42 km
🎨
13:10 · 100'
Musée Leblanc-Duvernoy
Explore this characterful 18th-century mansion housing an exquisite collection of regional faience and tapestries, offering a glimpse into local aristocratic life.
🚗 11'2.38 km
📍
15:01 · 45'
Aire de Jeux du stade nautique de l'Arbre-Sec
Let the children burn off some energy at this spacious riverside playground, and enjoy a relaxing family picnic under the trees to perfectly conclude your day.
09:00→16:165.1 km drive6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 26–36 €Entries 30€ · Transport 1€
Drive through the rain for an indoor morning at the play park, then park near the abbey. By noon, dash between the cathedral and the clock tower under an umbrella. Spend a dry afternoon in the museum before a damp visit to the outdoor park.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Corsaires et Pirates
This indoor amusement center is the great rainy morning start, keeping the whole family dry and entertained.
🚗 8'1.57 km
📍
10:03 · 45'
Abbaye Saint-Germain
Park close by and rush inside the sheltered crypts to completely avoid the persistent morning rain showers.
🚗 4'0.29 km
⛪
10:52 · 50'
Cathédrale Saint-Étienne
Keep an umbrella handy for the short walk from your car to the cathedral's dry, magnificent Gothic interior.
🚗 4'0.39 km
🏛️
11:46 · 80'
Tour de l'Horloge
Drive slowly on the wet cobblestones nearby; admire the clock from the car if the rain is coming down too hard.
🚗 4'0.42 km
🎨
13:10 · 100'
Musée Leblanc-Duvernoy
A fantastic dry afternoon escape; park nearby and enjoy the elegant indoor art collections away from the puddles.
🚗 11'2.38 km
📍
15:01 · 45'
Aire de Jeux du stade nautique de l'Arbre-Sec
It might be muddy and wet, so just enjoy a quick look from the parking lot or wear your waterproof boots.
09:00→16:165.1 km drive6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 26–36 €Entries 30€ · Transport 1€
Warm up the car for a cozy morning drive to the family center and the abbey. At midday, braving the cold between the freezing cathedral and clock tower is easier with a nearby car. Enjoy the heated museum before the early winter sunset at the park.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Corsaires et Pirates
Start your winter day in this heated indoor play area, an excellent spot to warm up before heading out to the chilly city.
🚗 8'1.57 km
📍
10:03 · 45'
Abbaye Saint-Germain
The car heater is a blessing before exploring the cold, ancient crypts; dress in warm layers for the interior.
🚗 4'0.29 km
⛪
10:52 · 50'
Cathédrale Saint-Étienne
Though you arrived by car, the vast stone cathedral is very chilly inside, so keep your heavy coat zipped up.
🚗 4'0.39 km
🏛️
11:46 · 80'
Tour de l'Horloge
Pull over to admire the golden clock against the winter sky; the warm car provides a great refuge from the wind.
🚗 4'0.42 km
🎨
13:10 · 100'
Musée Leblanc-Duvernoy
Park close and step into the comfortably heated museum rooms, a great way to thaw out during your winter trip.
🚗 11'2.38 km
📍
15:01 · 45'
Aire de Jeux du stade nautique de l'Arbre-Sec
Arrive before the early 5 PM sunset; the winter sunset over the park is beautiful, but the air gets freezing.
Sights in the town Auxerre (8)
Frequently asked questions
What is the most important monument in Auxerre?
The Abbey of Saint-Germain with its 9th-century crypts and the Gothic Saint-Étienne Cathedral, famous for its magnificent stained glass.
Is there a historic old town?
Yes, the center is rich in half-timbered houses. A highlight is the 15th-century Clock Tower (Tour de l'Horloge) with its astronomical clock.
Which wine comes from the region?
Auxerre is in Burgundy, near Chablis. Try local white wines like Chablis or Saint-Bris, the only Sauvignon Blanc in Burgundy.
Can you do activities on the river?
The Yonne river features boat trips. You can also walk along the banks or explore the Canal du Nivernais by bicycle.
Is Auxerre famous for sports?
Yes, through the AJ Auxerre football club. The Stade de l'Abbé-Deschamps is located right on the riverbank and is a key site for the town's identity.
Auxerre: where is it located?
Auxerre is located in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, France.
Auxerre: what is there to see?
Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Étienne, Abbaye Saint-Germain, Tour de l'Horloge.
Auxerre: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Auxerre: why is it worth visiting?
Auxerre is a magnificent city of art and history located in the heart of Burgundy, serving as the prefecture of the Yonne department.
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