Auxerre

Cathédrale Saint-Étienne is Auxerre’s great Gothic landmark and dominates the skyline above the River Yonne.

The church is known for its elegant Gothic architecture, richly sculpted portals and stained glass from the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries.

Only one of the cathedral’s towers was completed, giving the façade its distinctive and instantly recognisable appearance.

The crypt and surrounding quarter make the cathedral a natural starting point for a walk through historic Auxerre.

The River Yonne gives Auxerre fine views, attractive promenades and a gentler pace than many other historic towns.

Place Saint-Nicolas and the Marine quarter lie below Abbaye Saint-Germain, surrounded by old houses, places to eat and moored boats.

From the eastern bank, you can enjoy the classic view towards the cathedral, abbey tower and rooftops of the old town.

The quays are especially attractive in the evening and can form part of a longer walk or cycle ride beside the water.

Abbaye Saint-Germain is one of Auxerre’s most important historic monuments, preserving traces of many different periods.

The complex includes a Romanesque bell tower, cloister, vaulted rooms, cellars and museum collections.

The Carolingian crypts are the great highlight, with exceptionally early frescoes and a rare connection to the abbey’s medieval history.

Allow time for both the buildings and the Marine quarter at the foot of the abbey.

Tour de l’Horloge stands in the middle of the old town and is linked to Auxerre’s early defensive walls.

The tower rests on foundations from the Gallo-Roman fortifications and later became part of the medieval town’s defences.

The astronomical clock displays more than the time and is one of the town’s most photographed details.

The surrounding streets are lined with half-timbered houses, shops and small lanes, making the area ideal for a leisurely walk.

The Cadet Roussel trail leads between Auxerre’s principal streets, monuments and historic quarters.

The trail is named after Claude Roussel, a historic Auxerre figure made famous by a French children’s song.

The markers make it easy to discover half-timbered houses, churches, squares and smaller details that are otherwise easy to miss.

It is an enjoyable activity for both first-time visitors and families looking for a more playful introduction to the town.

Auxerre lies close to Chablis and several smaller wine areas, making the town an excellent base for a wine-focused trip.

Chablis is known for Chardonnay grown on limestone-rich soils and a landscape of vineyards, cellars and small producers.

Irancy is especially associated with red wine, while Saint-Bris-le-Vineux is known for Sauvignon in a region dominated by Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Book tastings in advance, and arrange a driver, taxi or organised tour if everyone in your party wishes to taste the wines.