Attractions and Places To See around Beauvais - Top 20

Beauvais is rich in history. You can visit the impressive Beauvais Cathedral, known for its towering Gothic choir. Other significant sites include the Saint-Germer-de-Fly Abbey Church, a magnificent example of French Gothic art, and the well-preserved medieval hospital, Maladrerie Saint-Lazare de Voisinlieu. Don't miss the charming village of Gerberoy, classified among the most beautiful villages in France, with its historic Castle gate.

The most prominent example of Gothic architecture is the Beauvais Cathedral. Its choir soars to an astonishing 48 meters, making it the tallest Gothic choir in the world. Inside, you can admire superb stained-glass windows and a remarkable 19th-century astronomical clock. Another notable example is the Saint-Germer-de-Fly Abbey Church, considered the oldest abbey of French Gothic art.

Yes, Beauvais offers several medieval sites. The Maladrerie Saint-Lazare de Voisinlieu is a remarkably well-preserved medieval hospital from the 12th and 13th centuries, featuring a chapel and barn. You can also find remnants of Roman walls behind the National Tapestry Gallery and around the cathedral, as well as medieval ruins like the crypt of the 10th-century Collégiale de Saint-Barthélemy.

Beauvais boasts several cultural institutions. The MUDO - Musée de l'Oise, housed in the former bishop's palace, showcases art, archaeology, and historical artifacts from the Oise region. The Galerie Nationale de la Tapisserie celebrates Beauvais' rich heritage in tapestry production. Additionally, Le Quadrilatère serves as a vibrant space for contemporary art and exhibitions.

For natural escapes, Beauvais offers several parks and a large waterbody. Parc Marcel-Dassault features green spaces, an English garden, a rose garden, and a Japanese garden. Le Plan d'Eau du Canada is a popular lake and recreational area near the city center, ideal for leisure activities including swimming in summer. John Fitzgerald Kennedy Park provides a tranquil, forest-like environment with ponds and paths for walks.

Absolutely! The region around Beauvais is great for outdoor activities. You can find various cycling routes, including loops around Beauvais and Gerberoy, or longer rides to Saint-Germer-de-Fly. For runners, there are trails around the Canada Pond and in the village of Gerberoy. Explore more options in the Cycling around Beauvais and Running Trails around Beauvais guides.

Families visiting Beauvais have several options. Parc Saint-Paul, just west of the city, is an amusement park with over 40 rides, including roller coasters and carousels. Parc Marcel-Dassault offers green spaces, gardens, and an animal farm nearby. Le Plan d'Eau du Canada is also a great spot for families, offering swimming and other leisure activities during the summer.

For scenic views, the village of Gerberoy, particularly from its historic Castle gate, offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside. The sheer height of the Beauvais Cathedral itself provides a sense of grandeur and a unique perspective on Gothic architecture.

Visitors frequently express awe at the scale and beauty of the Beauvais Cathedral, particularly its towering choir. The charm and historical preservation of villages like Gerberoy, with its cobbled streets and gardens, are also highly appreciated. Many are surprised by the grandeur of sites like the Saint-Germer-de-Fly Abbey Church in such a small village.

Yes, Beauvais commemorates Jeanne Hachette, a local heroine from the 15th century. A statue of Jeanne Hachette stands in the city, and Place Jeanne Hachette, a lively pedestrian plaza, is named in her honor, recognizing her heroic actions in defending Beauvais from invaders.

Yes, you can visit Bresles Castle, which served as a former residence for the bishops of Beauvais and now functions as the town hall. Its gardens were historically appreciated by nobility, including Catherine de Medici. Additionally, the village of Gerberoy features a historic Castle gate, part of a 16th-century castle.

The best time to visit Beauvais for outdoor attractions is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September). This period offers pleasant weather for exploring parks, enjoying activities at Le Plan d'Eau du Canada, and walking through the historic villages. The annual Rose Festival in Gerberoy (late May - early June) is also a beautiful time to visit.