Attractions and Places To See around Auxerre - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Auxerre include historical landmarks and natural features. Auxerre is a town in Burgundy, France, recognized for its medieval heritage and architecture. The River Yonne flows through the city, and the surrounding region features vineyards and hilly landscapes. Visitors can explore a variety of sites reflecting the area's history and natural environment.
Best attractions and places to see around Auxerre
- The most popular attractions is The Saussois Rocks, a cliff popular with climbing enthusiasts. This area features imposing rocks and offers a shady rest area.
- Another must-see spot is Place Surugue and Cadet Roussel Fountain, a man-made monument and historical square. It is known for its half-timbered houses and a fountain commemorating the French folk song "Cadet Roussel".
- Visitors also love Guédelon Castle, a castle and historical site. This is an experimental archaeology project where a 13th-century castle is being built using authentic period methods.
- Auxerre is known for its historical buildings, cultural sites, and natural landscapes. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient abbeys to river views and vineyards.
- The attractions around Auxerre are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 170 upvotes and 60 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
The Saussois Rocks
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Rogny – The Seven Locks
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Paul Bert Bridge
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Place Surugue and Cadet Roussel Fountain
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There is a fountain in the square that is reminiscent of the famous French folk song "Cadet Roussel".
The role model for the main character and namesake was allegedly the bailiff Guillaume Roussel from Auxerre. (1743 - 1807)
More on Wikipedia:
de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cadet_Rousselle
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Saint-Étienne Cathedral of Auxerre
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You can visit the cathedral for free, which you should definitely do. The sight of these incredibly high Gothic vaults is a lasting experience.
If you want to visit the crypt, you have to pay an entrance fee of 3.50 euros.
The crypt was built between 1023 and 1035 and dates from the Romanesque cathedral, which was destroyed in 1215.
The current cathedral was built on the site of the old Romanesque cathedral. The different construction phases stretched from the 13th century to the 16th century.
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Abbaye Saint-Germain
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An interesting church, with excavations in the basement and temporary exhibitions inside the church.
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Guédelon Castle
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You must leave the site by 6 p.m. at the latest.
Attention: the water mill, which is particularly popular with children, is only open between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Why build a castle from the early 13th century in the 21st century?
Many questions about castle construction, the use of materials and the use of construction workers are still unanswered. By using the old tools and experimenting with the materials available on site, they hope to rediscover lost knowledge.
Guédelon is perhaps the most important construction site for experimental archaeology, but certainly the best known.
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Saint Nicholas Square
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Belombre Castle
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Saint-Martin Collegiate Church
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Built in 1160, rebuilt from 1220. Apart from the tower, all the walls date from the Middle Ages. The paintings from the 13th century and the horseshoes on the side gate identify the building as a stage on the St. James pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. The various restorations have not changed the building, with the exception of the tower, which was added in 1852.
moulindelacoudre.fr/de/2017/02/11/die-stiftskirche-saint-martin
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful church in Chablis currently being renovated
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Spectacular and original. A must-see.
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Impressive remains from a time when river transport was essential. This gigantic work of art, designed by Henri IV and the Duke of Sully around 1597, in order to connect the Mediterranean to the Ocean and the Channel by bringing together the Loire and Seine rivers using a canal. The work, led by engineer Hugues Cosnier, lasted 38 years and required 6,000 workers to overcome the 24-metre drop in altitude of the hill.
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Simply a great idea that is being put into practice here. Come by before the construction work is finished. In addition to the normal day-to-day construction work, there are also always interesting special offers. The bread baked here is pretty tasty and is sold.
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Vestige of a work which ultimately had very little use (I invite you to read the panels at the bottom, very informative)
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Price 2024 €16 adult €15 students - a must do, unforgettable experience.
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An unmissable experience is visiting this castle, the construction of which began in 1999 using medieval techniques. You visit a construction site (now well advanced), chat with the workers from the different trades who explain everything to you, visit the vegetable garden, the basket maker, the baker, the potter, the herbalist, etc… I highly recommend visiting this castle !
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I walked past without seeing it 😂😂
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit in Auxerre?
Auxerre is rich in history. You can explore the magnificent Saint-Étienne Cathedral of Auxerre, a Gothic masterpiece with stunning stained-glass windows and a Romanesque crypt. Another significant site is the Abbaye Saint-Germain, a monastic complex with 9th-century Carolingian crypts containing ancient mural paintings. Don't miss the iconic Clock Tower, built on Gallo-Roman foundations, or the charming Old Town with its half-timbered houses.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in and around Auxerre?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Guédelon Castle offers a unique experience where a 13th-century castle is being built using authentic medieval methods, providing an engaging educational outing. The Rogny – The Seven Locks is an impressive historical site that can be fascinating for all ages. Additionally, Parc de l'Arbre Sec features a children's garden and plenty of green space for play.
Where can I find outdoor activities like hiking or cycling near Auxerre?
The region around Auxerre offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. You can find various hiking trails, including moderate routes like 'On the banks of the Yonne' from Auxerre. For easier walks, consider the easy hikes around Auxerre, such as the 'Around Auxerre' loop. The Yonne River banks are also popular for strolls, jogging, and cycling. For climbing enthusiasts, The Saussois Rocks offer challenging limestone walls.
What are some natural features or scenic viewpoints to visit?
Auxerre is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. The Yonne River, which flows through the city, provides scenic views and opportunities for riverside walks. The Paul Bert Bridge offers panoramic views of Auxerre's skyline, including the cathedral and abbey reflected in the water. You can also explore the Auxerrois Vineyards, known for their Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, or relax in the expansive Parc de l'Arbre Sec.
Are there any attractions in Auxerre that are wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Place Surugue and Cadet Roussel Fountain is noted as wheelchair accessible. This historical square features beautiful half-timbered houses and a fountain commemorating a famous French folk song, making it an enjoyable and accessible spot to visit in the city center.
What is the best time of year to visit Auxerre attractions?
Auxerre is charming throughout the year, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant experiences. In May, you might catch the Fleurs de Vigne festival in the vineyards. Autumn brings beautiful foliage as the leaves change color in the vineyards and parks, making it ideal for scenic walks and wine tourism. Summer is also popular for river activities and exploring the city's outdoor spaces.
Where can I experience the local wine culture near Auxerre?
The Auxerrois region is renowned for its vineyards. Just 20 minutes away is the famous Chablis Wine Region, known worldwide for its Chardonnay wines. You can also visit the Auxerrois Vineyards (Clos de la Chaînette), considered the oldest in Burgundy, to admire the landscape and learn about local winemaking traditions. Many picturesque villages in the area offer wine tasting opportunities.
What unique historical projects can I find near Auxerre?
A truly unique historical project is Guédelon Castle. This experimental archaeology site is building a 13th-century castle from scratch using only period-appropriate tools and techniques. It offers a fascinating insight into medieval construction and craftsmanship, allowing visitors to see history being made.
Are there any specific places to enjoy views of the Yonne River in Auxerre?
The Quays of the Yonne River are perfect for enjoying views of the city and the river. You can stroll, jog, or cycle along the banks, taking in picturesque scenes of the cathedral, abbey, and colorful townhouses. The Paul Bert Bridge also provides excellent vantage points for capturing the iconic Auxerre skyline reflected in the water.
What are some lesser-known historical churches or religious buildings to visit?
Beyond the main cathedral and abbey, Auxerre and its surroundings host several other notable religious sites. Consider visiting Saint-Eusèbe Church, known for its Romanesque bell tower and stained-glass windows. The Saint-Martin Collegiate Church and the Church of Saints Peter and Paul in Cravant also offer glimpses into the region's rich architectural and religious heritage.
What kind of museums are available in Auxerre?
Auxerre offers a couple of interesting museums. The Natural History Museum, located at 5 Bd Vauban, showcases the region's biodiversity with a vast collection of natural history specimens, fossils, and stuffed animals. For art and history enthusiasts, the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire, housed in a Renaissance-style mansion, features exhibits ranging from Gallo-Roman artifacts to fine art and Burgundy's winemaking traditions.
Most popular routes around Auxerre
Most popular attractions around Auxerre
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