One Day in Auxerre
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One Day in Auxerre

Medieval Auxerre: Cathedrals, Abbey, and Burgundy wines

1 day • Easy difficulty • Est. €50

Day 1: Medieval Heritage and Gothic Splendor in Auxerre

A comprehensive day exploring Auxerre's rich history, starting with the Carolingian crypts and Gallo-Roman artifacts, followed by a leisurely lunch in the old town, and concluding with the architectural masterpiece of Saint-Étienne Cathedral.

  • 09:00

    Explore the Carolingian Crypts and Medieval Museum

    Start your day at the Caveaux de l'Abbaye Saint-Germain. Visit the 9th-century Carolingian crypts, which are among the oldest in France, and view the medieval museum housing significant archaeological finds. This site offers a deep dive into the city's early Christian and medieval history.

  • 11:15

    Visit Musée Saint-Germain

    Located within the same abbey complex, spend an hour exploring the Musée Saint-Germain. It houses an impressive collection of Gallo-Roman and medieval archaeology, providing context to the artifacts seen in the crypts. Note: Check opening hours as it may be closed on Tuesdays outside of summer months.

  • 12:30

    Lunch in the Historic Center

    Enjoy a traditional Burgundian lunch at a local bistro near the Place de la République or along the Yonne River. Recommended spots include L'Aspérule Auxerre for a cozy atmosphere or Mamma Giulia for Italian options if you prefer a change of pace. Sample local cheeses or charcuterie.

  • 14:30

    Stroll Through the Half-Timbered Old Town

    Take a relaxing walk through the medieval streets of Auxerre. Admire the well-preserved half-timbered houses, visit the Clock Tower (Tour de l'Horloge), and enjoy the riverside views along the Yonne. This is a great time for photography and soaking in the ambiance.

  • 15:45

    Discover Collégiale Saint-Étienne

    End your sightseeing with a visit to the Collégiale Saint-Étienne, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture known for having only one tower. Marvel at the 15th-century stained glass windows, intricate bas-reliefs, and the rare murals in the crypt. This is the highlight of Auxerre's architectural heritage.

  • 17:30

    Afternoon Coffee and Wine Tasting

    Unwind with a coffee or a glass of local Burgundy wine at a café near the Théâtre d'Auxerre. The 18th-century theatre is a nice backdrop for an evening stroll before departure or dinner.

Meals: Lunch at Historic Center / Near Place de la République

Where to stay: For a day trip from Paris, no accommodation is needed. If staying overnight, consider hotels near the Yonne River or the Train Station for easy access.

Getting around: The city center is highly walkable. If arriving from Paris, take the train to Auxerre-St-Gervais station, which is a 20-minute walk from the historic center. Local transport is not necessary for this itinerary.

Practical Information

Auxerre is best visited between May and October when the weather is mild and suitable for walking. The historic center is compact, making it ideal for exploring on foot. While the town is accessible year-round, summer months see higher tourist traffic, particularly around the Burgundy wine festivals. Winter visits offer a quieter atmosphere but require warmer clothing for potentially chilly evenings near the Yonne River. Getting to Auxerre is straightforward via train from Paris. The journey takes just under two hours, with stations located at Auxerre-St-Gervais, which is approximately a 20-minute walk from the city center. Once in Auxerre, the medieval core is highly walkable. For those wishing to explore the surrounding Burgundy wine region or nearby Chablis, renting a car or joining a guided tour is recommended, as public transport to these outlying areas is limited. For accommodation, staying within the historic center is practical for maximizing your one-day itinerary. Look for hotels or guesthouses near the Cathédrale Saint-Étienne or the Abbey of Saint-Germain to minimize transit time. Areas close to the Yonne River offer scenic views and easy access to riverside walks. Budget considerations should account for the cost of train tickets from Paris, which vary by booking time, and dining expenses. Auxerre offers a range of options, from budget-friendly bistros like L'Aspérule Auxerre to mid-range establishments like Mamma Giulia. Entry to major sites like the Abbey Museum may have fees, while walking the historic streets and viewing exterior architecture is free. Pack comfortable walking shoes, as the cobblestone streets in the medieval center can be uneven. Bring layers, as weather can shift quickly, and a light rain jacket is advisable. Don’t forget a camera for the Gothic architecture and half-timbered houses. Important tips include checking the opening hours of the Abbey of Saint-Germain and Saint-Etienne Cathedral in advance, as they may have specific closure days, such as Tuesdays from September to June. Arriving early helps avoid crowds and allows ample time to visit both the Abbey and the Cathedral, which are the primary highlights of the day.

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