The Cathedral of Saint-Pierre is famously unfinished; step inside to marvel at the world's highest Gothic choir.
Check local schedules for the Cathedral's Astronomical Clock, which features automated figures and usually chimes at specific afternoon times.
If arriving at Beauvais-Tillé airport, avoid the expensive Paris shuttle if you're staying locally; use the regular municipal bus to reach the city center.
The city has a rich textile history; the Galerie Nationale de la Tapisserie is right next to the cathedral and well worth a visit.
🍽 Food
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Ficelle Picarde
Try this savory baked crêpe rolled with ham and mushrooms, covered in cheese, available in traditional brasseries around Place Jeanne Hachette.
🍽
Maroilles Cheese Dishes
Look for local menus featuring this strong regional cheese, often baked into tarts or melted over potatoes.
🍽
Tuiles de Beauvais
Pick up these crispy almond and chocolate biscuits from traditional bakeries in the city center.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
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Place Jeanne Hachette
The central square is surrounded by boutiques and shops selling regional Picardy food products.
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Tapestry Souvenirs
Find artisanal crafts and textile souvenirs in the small shops near the Cathedral.
🧘
Plan d'Eau du Canada
A large, tranquil lake just northwest of the city, well-suited for a quiet walk or renting a pedalo in summer.
🧘
MUDO Garden
The courtyard garden of the former Bishop's Palace (now a museum) features a peaceful retreat right next to the cathedral.
Located in the Oise department, Beauvais is internationally recognized for its monumental Saint-Pierre Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The cathedral features the highest Gothic choir in the world, reaching a soaring height of 48.5 meters, although the building itself was never fully completed after structural collapses in the 13th and 16th centuries. Adjacent to the cathedral, the MUDO, Museum of the Oise, housed in the former episcopal palace with its distinctive 16th-century Renaissance towers, displays a rich collection of art and historical artifacts. Since 1664, the city has also been home to the National Tapestry Manufacture, which continues to produce exceptional woven works using traditional techniques. The historic center features several timber-framed houses that survived the heavy bombings of 1940, particularly around the Saint-Étienne Church, known for its magnificent Renaissance stained glass windows. Exploring the pedestrian streets provides a glimpse into the daily life of the Picardy region, where local markets provide fresh produce and regional specialties. The nearby plan d'eau du Canada, a 36-hectare artificial lake, provides an outdoor space for swimming, sailing, and walking during the warmer months.
Location: Hauts-de-France, France
Top sights: Saint-Pierre Cathedral · MUDO - Oise Museum · Le Quadrilatère
Nearby: Mouy (21 km)
Population: ~57.548
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
3
4
6
10
13
16
18
18
15
11
7
4
Rain mm
61
54
55
42
65
57
60
65
46
65
71
76
Live webcam – Beauvais
See what it looks like near Beauvais right now.
Beauvais: La Cathédrale Saint-Pierre · 0.5 km · Open webcam on Windy · Webcams provided by Windy.com
Geography
Population
53,393
Coordinates
49.43420, 2.08750
Facts
The cathedral choir stands 48.5 meters high.
The tapestry manufacture was founded in 1664.
Beauvais-Tillé airport serves millions of passengers.
Total city area is approximately 33.31 km².
MUDO museum is housed in the former Bishop's Palace.
Major European production site for Massey Ferguson.
Pick weather + travel mode, get a concrete day plan.
09:00→17:292 km walk8 places0/8
Day budget: ≈ 31–41 €Entries 36€ · Transport 0€
Start with a morning stroll from the historic station to the tapestry workshops.
At midday, relax at Place Jeanne Hachette before marveling at the towering Saint-Pierre Cathedral.
Spend your afternoon exploring the diverse art collections at MUDO and admiring Carolingian ruins.
Conclude the day at Le Quadrilatère, reflecting on modern art alongside ancient Roman city walls.
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09:10 · 11'
Beauvais Station
Start your journey at this historic 19th-century railway station, noting its classic provincial architecture before grabbing a coffee across the street.
Discover centuries of textile artistry at this national factory, where you should time your visit to catch a live weaving demonstration by skilled artisans.
The lively central square commemorates a local heroine, making it the well-suited spot to sit on a terrace and admire the surrounding historic facades.
Admire the grand classical facade of the City Hall built in 1752, and try to peek inside to see the elegant staircase and historical municipal artifacts.
Stand in awe beneath the highest Gothic choir vault in the world, but don't forget to look for the magnificent 19th-century astronomical clock tucked away inside.
This rare Carolingian survivor contrasts sharply with the soaring Gothic cathedral next door, offering a quiet, rustic atmosphere best photographed in the morning light.
Housed in the striking former episcopal palace, this museum features an impressive collection of European art, so be sure to check the upper floors for 19th-century landscapes.
Explore contemporary exhibitions set against Gallo-Roman walls in this modern art space, where asking the staff about the architectural history adds great value.
The morning in Beauvais begins with grey skies and steady rain that makes the cobblestones glisten. At noon, we seek shelter in the monumental cathedral while the rain beats against the high windows. In the afternoon, the city's museums offer a dry refuge from the damp wind. The day ends in the warm light of the station hall, away from the wet and dark streets of the city.
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09:10 · 11'
Beauvais Station
The station hall provides excellent protection from the initial rain; check your gear and open your umbrella as soon as you leave the building to avoid getting soaked.
This manufactory is a handy place to escape the dampness and explore textile art; the interior spaces are warm and completely protected from the rain outside.
The open square can be uncomfortable in the rain; use the surrounding arcades and shops to cross from one side to the other while staying as dry as possible.
A biting cold morning awaits you in Beauvais, where frost colors the historic roofs white. At noon, the low winter sun barely warms the main square, making the warm atmosphere of the cafes even more inviting. In the afternoon, temperatures drop further, so we seek the warmth of the cathedral and museums. After 5 PM, darkness quickly envelops the entire city.
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09:10 · 11'
Beauvais Station
The wind often blows through the platforms; put on your gloves and hat while still in the heated station hall before heading out into the biting cold.
Roll from the station into the heart of the city, absorbing the morning bustle of the central square.
Midday centers around the breathtaking Cathedral and the ornate ceramics of Maison Gréber.
Pedal into the afternoon green spaces of Parc Marcel Dassault and past the striking Elispace.
Your cycling day ends with a peaceful sunset ride and relaxation beside the sprawling Canada Lake.
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09:10 · 11'
Beauvais Station
Start your journey at this historic 19th-century railway station, noting its classic provincial architecture before grabbing a coffee across the street.
Stand in awe beneath the highest Gothic choir vault in the world, but don't forget to look for the magnificent 19th-century astronomical clock tucked away inside.
Admire the exquisite ceramic facades of this historic pottery house, looking closely at the detailed floral motifs that characterize Beauvais' rich artisanal heritage.
Relax in this sprawling green oasis featuring themed gardens and farm animals, bringing some bread for the ducks if you are traveling with young children.
Take a moment outside to appreciate the flying saucer-like modern architecture of this major event venue, which regularly hosts premier sports and cultural events.
End your afternoon with a stroll around this large, tranquil lake, renting a kayak if the weather permits to fully enjoy the scenic natural surroundings.
The day starts with rain, making the bike paths of Beauvais slippery. Caution is needed while cycling from the station towards the city. At noon, the cathedral's architecture offers a dry parking spot. In the afternoon, the route leads through wet parks to the lake, where mist hangs over the water. A rainy day that requires perseverance on two wheels.
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09:10 · 11'
Beauvais Station
Look for a covered bike rack to keep your saddle dry; check your brakes thoroughly, as they may react more slowly in wet conditions.
Icy wind blows in your face on the bike as you cycle through winter Beauvais. The clear air is refreshing but requires good layering. At noon, the cathedral with its massive walls acts as a shield against the frost. In the afternoon, we cycle through the quiet park to the lake before the early darkness forces our return. A cool but invigorating experience.
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09:10 · 11'
Beauvais Station
Watch out for icy patches near the bike racks; wear windproof gloves to keep your hands warm and agile while cycling in the cold air.
Begin outside the center with a morning exploration of the medieval Maladrerie Saint-Lazare.
Drive to the core for a midday journey through the Cathedral's Gothic heights and MUDO's treasures.
In the afternoon, cruise past Maison Gréber to enjoy the vast gardens of Parc Marcel Dassault.
Conclude with a short evening drive to Canada Lake, enjoying the waterside tranquility before dark.
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09:10 · 84'
Maladrerie Saint-Lazare
Step back into the 12th century at this remarkably preserved leper colony, making sure to walk through the medieval medicinal gardens for a serene experience.
Start your journey at this historic 19th-century railway station, noting its classic provincial architecture before grabbing a coffee across the street.
Stand in awe beneath the highest Gothic choir vault in the world, but don't forget to look for the magnificent 19th-century astronomical clock tucked away inside.
Housed in the striking former episcopal palace, this museum features an impressive collection of European art, so be sure to check the upper floors for 19th-century landscapes.
Admire the exquisite ceramic facades of this historic pottery house, looking closely at the detailed floral motifs that characterize Beauvais' rich artisanal heritage.
Relax in this sprawling green oasis featuring themed gardens and farm animals, bringing some bread for the ducks if you are traveling with young children.
End your afternoon with a stroll around this large, tranquil lake, renting a kayak if the weather permits to fully enjoy the scenic natural surroundings.
The wipers work tirelessly as we head towards the sights of Beauvais by car. It's a day for short walks from the parking lot to the entrance. At noon, the rain drums on the car roof as we drive to the cathedral. In the afternoon, we enjoy the museums while the storm rages outside. A comfortable way to explore the city despite the heavy wetness.
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09:10 · 84'
Maladrerie Saint-Lazare
Take advantage of the covered walkway near the old buildings; park as close to the entrance as possible to minimize time spent in the rain.
The frosty morning starts with scraping ice, but the warm heater makes the drive through Beauvais pleasant. At noon, the car is the perfect refuge between cultural stops from the cold. In the afternoon, temperatures drop rapidly at the lakeshore, making the return to the warm vehicle particularly valuable. A comfortable winter day with impressive views.
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09:10 · 84'
Maladrerie Saint-Lazare
The frost on the old stones provides an impressive backdrop in the morning; dress in thick layers, as the wind blows particularly cold here on the hill.
Home to the highest Gothic choir in the world, this architectural marvel features a 19th-century astronomical clock with 90,000 parts.
MUDO - Oise Museum🏛 museum
Located in the former episcopal palace, this museum showcases a diverse collection of fine arts, decorative arts, and local history.
Le Quadrilatère🎭 culture
A contemporary art space near the cathedral that explores the dialogue between historical heritage and modern artistic creation.
Maladrerie Saint-Lazare🏺 historical
A remarkably preserved 12th-century leper colony, now a cultural site featuring beautiful medieval-inspired gardens and event spaces.
Place Jeanne Hachette🏙 civic
The city's main square, dedicated to the local heroine who led the resistance against Charles the Bold's siege in 1472.
Boileau Tower🏺 historical
A historic tower that remains from the city's ancient ramparts, illustrating the medieval defensive system of Beauvais.
Canada Lake (Plan d'Eau du Canada)🌿 nature
A large park centered around a 36-hectare lake, offering water sports, cycling paths, and a beach for leisure and recreation.
Hôtel de Ville🏙 civic
Beauvais' 18th-century town hall is an elegant classical building overlooking the bustling main square of the city.
National Tapestry Manufactory🎭 culture
Continuing a 17th-century tradition, this workshop still produces high-quality tapestries using ancient horizontal loom techniques.
Notre-Dame-de-la-Basse-Œuvre⛪ religious
A rare 10th-century Carolingian church located right next to the cathedral, preserved despite being partially demolished.
Maison Gréber🏛 museum
A beautiful house decorated with ceramics by the Gréber family, reflecting the city's rich pottery tradition.
Parc Marcel Dassault🌿 nature
A large urban park featuring themed gardens, an animal park, and sports facilities, named after the famous aviator.
Gare de Beauvais
A historic railway station built in 1860, serving as a vital transport hub connecting the city to Paris.
Elispace🎭 culture
A modern multipurpose arena used for concerts, sports events, and trade fairs, located near the airport.
Pont de Paris🏙 civic
A significant bridge offering views of the Thérain river and connecting the city center to the western districts.
Mobikid's👨👩👧 family
A playground in Beauvais that is specifically tailored to the needs of children.
Piscine Langevin👨👩👧 family
Piscine Langevin in Beauvais, a swimming pool named after Langevin.
Fosse a Baillevent🌿 nature
A natural viewpoint offering scenic vistas over the Beauvais landscape.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Beauvais Cathedral so special?
It has the tallest Gothic choir in the world (48.5 m), but remained unfinished due to collapses.
How far is the airport from the city center?
Beauvais-Tillé airport is about 4 km northeast; buses and shuttles take about 15 minutes.
Can you see the famous tapestries?
Yes, at Le Quadrilatère there are exhibitions about the history of the Beauvais tapestry manufacture.
What is MUDO?
The Oise Museum is housed in the former episcopal palace and displays art from the Middle Ages to today.
Does the astronomical clock in the cathedral work?
Yes, this 19th-century precision clock is functional and often features animated demonstrations.
Beauvais: where is it located?
Beauvais is located in Hauts-de-France, France.
Beauvais: what is there to see?
Highlights include Saint-Pierre Cathedral, MUDO - Oise Museum, Le Quadrilatère.
Beauvais: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Beauvais: why is it worth visiting?
Located in the Oise department, Beauvais is internationally recognized for its monumental Saint-Pierre Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.