last edited May 14, 2020
What to See in Central France
Location Map of Central France
Central France
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UNESCO World Heritage Sites
The region has five sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list:
Burgundy:
Fontenay Abbey (1981)
Built in the 12th century, this is the oldest Cistercian abbey still standing. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for this reason.
Built in the 12th century, this is the oldest Cistercian abbey still standing. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for this reason.
Vézelay Basilica (1979)
This Romanesque structure, dating from the 12th century, is a major pilgrimage site on the Way of St. James. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
This Romanesque structure, dating from the 12th century, is a major pilgrimage site on the Way of St. James. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Centre-Val de Loire:
Bourges Cathedral (1992)
Built in the 12th and 13th centuries in the Gothic style, Bourges Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Built in the 12th and 13th centuries in the Gothic style, Bourges Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Chartres Cathedral (1979)
Built in the 12th and 13th centuries in the Gothic style, Notre-Dame Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Built in the 12th and 13th centuries in the Gothic style, Notre-Dame Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Loire Valley (2000)
Across four departments (37, 41, 45, 49), the Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its towns, villages, and especially its châteaux between Sully-sur-Loire (45) and Chalonnes (49).
Across four departments (37, 41, 45, 49), the Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its towns, villages, and especially its châteaux between Sully-sur-Loire (45) and Chalonnes (49).
Cher (18)
Noirlac Abbey
A stunning 12th-century Cistercian abbey in Bruère-Allichamps, in the south of the department. It is one of the best-preserved abbeys in France in its category.
A stunning 12th-century Cistercian abbey in Bruère-Allichamps, in the south of the department. It is one of the best-preserved abbeys in France in its category.
Apremont-sur-Allier
On the border with Nièvre, Apremont is one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France", with its charming château enhanced by gardens and a floral park.
On the border with Nièvre, Apremont is one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France", with its charming château enhanced by gardens and a floral park.
Bourges
Though first known for its "Printemps," the prefecture of Cher also boasts a charming old town with half-timbered houses and a stunning UNESCO-listed cathedral.
Though first known for its "Printemps," the prefecture of Cher also boasts a charming old town with half-timbered houses and a stunning UNESCO-listed cathedral.
La Chapelle d'Angillon
This is the village of Alain Fournier and *Le Grand Meaulnes*. You can visit his birthplace and a museum dedicated to him, as well as the Albanian Royal Foundation.
This is the village of Alain Fournier and *Le Grand Meaulnes*. You can visit his birthplace and a museum dedicated to him, as well as the Albanian Royal Foundation.
Orsan Priory
Located in Maisonnais, this 12th-century building features beautiful medieval-inspired gardens.
Located in Maisonnais, this 12th-century building features beautiful medieval-inspired gardens.
Jacques Coeur Route
This itinerary, primarily in the Cher department, aims to showcase its historical heritage. Castles, museums, and small villages feature across its twenty or so stages.
This itinerary, primarily in the Cher department, aims to showcase its historical heritage. Castles, museums, and small villages feature across its twenty or so stages.
Saint-Amand-Montrond
A sub-prefecture with a charming old town centre and the remains of what was once one of France’s largest medieval fortresses.
A sub-prefecture with a charming old town centre and the remains of what was once one of France’s largest medieval fortresses.
Natural Heritage
Sologne
A game-rich area of forests, marshes, and ponds covering part of the Centre region. Great for hiking.
A game-rich area of forests, marshes, and ponds covering part of the Centre region. Great for hiking.
Côte-d'Or (21)
Fontenay Abbey
Built in the 12th century, this is the oldest Cistercian abbey still standing. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for this reason.
Built in the 12th century, this is the oldest Cistercian abbey still standing. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for this reason.
Alésia
This is the site of the famous battle between the Romans and Gauls, located in the present-day village of Alise-Sainte-Reine. Since 2012, a museum, the MuséoParc Alésia, has been added to the site.
This is the site of the famous battle between the Romans and Gauls, located in the present-day village of Alise-Sainte-Reine. Since 2012, a museum, the MuséoParc Alésia, has been added to the site.
Beaune
The capital of Burgundy wines and a major tourist destination in the region. Visitors come especially for the famous Hospices de Beaune, both a museum and a stunning 15th-century building where the annual auction of local vineyard production takes place.
The capital of Burgundy wines and a major tourist destination in the region. Visitors come especially for the famous Hospices de Beaune, both a museum and a stunning 15th-century building where the annual auction of local vineyard production takes place.
Bussy-Rabutin Castle
A charming 12th-century castle with a 34-hectare park located northwest of Dijon.
A charming 12th-century castle with a 34-hectare park located northwest of Dijon.
Châteauneuf Castle
It is a Burgundian military fortress dating from the 15th century, built on a hill.
It is a Burgundian military fortress dating from the 15th century, built on a hill.
La Rochepot Castle
A charming 12th-century hilltop fortress surrounded by woods. With its pointed roofs, the building resembles a "Bavarian castle".
A charming 12th-century hilltop fortress surrounded by woods. With its pointed roofs, the building resembles a "Bavarian castle".
Flavigny-sur-Ozerain
This old village northwest of Dijon is listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
This old village northwest of Dijon is listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
Grand Crus Route
This scenic route of about 60 km winds through Burgundy’s vineyards (a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2015), including some of the most prestigious.
This scenic route of about 60 km winds through Burgundy’s vineyards (a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2015), including some of the most prestigious.
Semur-en-Auxois
A charming medieval town between Auxerre and Beaune, with its towers, ramparts, and old half-timbered houses.
A charming medieval town between Auxerre and Beaune, with its towers, ramparts, and old half-timbered houses.
Natural Heritage
Burgundy Canal
Stretching 240 km, it connects the Yonne to the Saône, crossing the Yonne and Côte d'Or departments. Like many canals, its purpose is now primarily tourist-focused, offering walks and river cruises.
Stretching 240 km, it connects the Yonne to the Saône, crossing the Yonne and Côte d'Or departments. Like many canals, its purpose is now primarily tourist-focused, offering walks and river cruises.
Cirque du Bout du Monde
A small valley surrounded by limestone cliffs over 500 metres high. You can hike and go climbing here.
A small valley surrounded by limestone cliffs over 500 metres high. You can hike and go climbing here.
Morvan Regional Nature Park
This park of forests, hedgerows, and rivers spans the four departments of Burgundy. You can hike through some beautiful landscapes here.
This park of forests, hedgerows, and rivers spans the four departments of Burgundy. You can hike through some beautiful landscapes here.
Eure-et-Loir (28)
Chartres
The prefecture of the department offers a charming town centre and, above all, one of France’s most beautiful cathedrals, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The prefecture of the department offers a charming town centre and, above all, one of France’s most beautiful cathedrals, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Château de Maintenon
Along with its grounds, this is a very beautiful château that began construction in the 12th century and was completed during the Renaissance in the town of the same name.
Along with its grounds, this is a very beautiful château that began construction in the 12th century and was completed during the Renaissance in the town of the same name.
Châteaudun
A few kilometres west of Orléans, Châteaudun offers its château and a few historic quarters to visit.
A few kilometres west of Orléans, Châteaudun offers its château and a few historic quarters to visit.
Natural Heritage
Perche Regional Nature Park
This is a protected area spanning Orne and Eure-et-Loir. It is home to the Senonches forest, one of the largest in France.
This is a protected area spanning Orne and Eure-et-Loir. It is home to the Senonches forest, one of the largest in France.
Indre (36)
Sarzay Castle
This medieval fortress-style castle was built in the 15th century in the southern part of the Indre department.
This medieval fortress-style castle was built in the 15th century in the southern part of the Indre department.
Valençay Castle
This magnificent castle is stylistically part of the Loire Valley Châteaux. It is located north of the Indre in the commune of Valençay.
This magnificent castle is stylistically part of the Loire Valley Châteaux. It is located north of the Indre in the commune of Valençay.
Châteauroux
It's the prefecture of Indre at the heart of the department. It's not really a tourist stop.
It's the prefecture of Indre at the heart of the department. It's not really a tourist stop.
Gargilesse-Dampierre
A charming village in the south of Indre, with its castle, churches, and old houses. You can visit the home of George Sand, who spent part of her youth a few kilometers away in Nohant-Vic.
A charming village in the south of Indre, with its castle, churches, and old houses. You can visit the home of George Sand, who spent part of her youth a few kilometers away in Nohant-Vic.
Issoudun
The town, a sub-prefecture, boasts several 15th-century old houses, as well as a medieval tower and belfry.
The town, a sub-prefecture, boasts several 15th-century old houses, as well as a medieval tower and belfry.
Saint-Benoît-du-Sault
This is a small medieval village surrounded by ramparts, featuring a priory and a belfry. The town is labeled one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France.".
This is a small medieval village surrounded by ramparts, featuring a priory and a belfry. The town is labeled one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France.".
Natural Heritage
Indre-et-Loire (37)
Candes-Saint-Martin
With its small châteaux, fortified church, and old houses, the village is one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
With its small châteaux, fortified church, and old houses, the village is one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
Château d'Amboise
Overlooking the Loire and the town of Amboise, this royal Renaissance-style edifice is one of the Châteaux of the Loire. Around it, you can still see beautiful half-timbered houses.
Overlooking the Loire and the town of Amboise, this royal Renaissance-style edifice is one of the Châteaux of the Loire. Around it, you can still see beautiful half-timbered houses.
Azay-le-Rideau Castle
One of the most beautiful and best-known of all the Loire Valley castles listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Built in the early 16th century, it is located in the town of the same name between Tours and Chinon.
One of the most beautiful and best-known of all the Loire Valley castles listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Built in the early 16th century, it is located in the town of the same name between Tours and Chinon.
Chenonceau Castle
One of the must-see attractions among the Loire Valley castles. It is also the most visited private monument in France.
One of the must-see attractions among the Loire Valley castles. It is also the most visited private monument in France.
Château de Gizeux
A blend of medieval and Renaissance styles for this Loire Valley château on the border of Maine-et-Loire.
A blend of medieval and Renaissance styles for this Loire Valley château on the border of Maine-et-Loire.
Langeais Castle
It's an ancient medieval fortress overlooking the Loire in the heart of the small town of the same name.
It's an ancient medieval fortress overlooking the Loire in the heart of the small town of the same name.
Château du Rivau
A mid-15th-century fortified castle located in Lémeré, in the southern part of the Indre-et-Loire department.
A mid-15th-century fortified castle located in Lémeré, in the southern part of the Indre-et-Loire department.
Château de Villandry
A Renaissance château best known for its magnificent gardens near Tours. It is one of the Châteaux of the Loire.
A Renaissance château best known for its magnificent gardens near Tours. It is one of the Châteaux of the Loire.
Chinon
It's a departmental sub-prefecture with an old castle, towers, a rather pretty centre, and several museums.
It's a departmental sub-prefecture with an old castle, towers, a rather pretty centre, and several museums.
Crissay-sur-Manse
A village listed among the "most beautiful in France", with its 15th- and 16th-century houses and the ruins of its castle overlooking the village.
A village listed among the "most beautiful in France", with its 15th- and 16th-century houses and the ruins of its castle overlooking the village.
Tours
The capital of Indre-et-Loire lies at the heart of the Loire Valley and its châteaux. It’s a great base for exploring the surrounding area. The city also boasts several beautiful buildings and a few historic districts.
The capital of Indre-et-Loire lies at the heart of the Loire Valley and its châteaux. It’s a great base for exploring the surrounding area. The city also boasts several beautiful buildings and a few historic districts.
Loire Valley
Across four departments (37, 41, 45, 49), the Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its towns, villages, and especially its châteaux between Sully-sur-Loire (45) and Chalonnes (49).
Across four departments (37, 41, 45, 49), the Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its towns, villages, and especially its châteaux between Sully-sur-Loire (45) and Chalonnes (49).
Vouvray
This commune, renowned for its wine, boasts a charming château, troglodytic dwellings, and wine cellars.
This commune, renowned for its wine, boasts a charming château, troglodytic dwellings, and wine cellars.
Natural Heritage
Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Nature Park
Spanning both Indre-et-Loire and Maine-et-Loire, this vast park along the Loire River is a prime hiking area and home to numerous châteaux.
Spanning both Indre-et-Loire and Maine-et-Loire, this vast park along the Loire River is a prime hiking area and home to numerous châteaux.
Loir-et-Cher (41)
Blois
The city, a prefecture, is known for its beautiful château and the more or less historic districts of its center that stretch around it.
The city, a prefecture, is known for its beautiful château and the more or less historic districts of its center that stretch around it.
Bourré
A partly troglodytic village on the banks of the Cher, better known for its name than its underground dwellings.
A partly troglodytic village on the banks of the Cher, better known for its name than its underground dwellings.
Cellettes
This small commune of 2,500 inhabitants near Blois boasts no fewer than 18 châteaux within its boundaries, the main one being the Château de Beauregard.
This small commune of 2,500 inhabitants near Blois boasts no fewer than 18 châteaux within its boundaries, the main one being the Château de Beauregard.
Chambord Castle
It is one of the most famous and most visited Loire Valley castles, with its park and forest.
It is one of the most famous and most visited Loire Valley castles, with its park and forest.
Chaumont-sur-Loire Castle
It is one of the Loire Valley castles classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is located between Amboise and Blois.
It is one of the Loire Valley castles classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is located between Amboise and Blois.
Cheverny Castle
This is a stunning Loire Valley château that inspired Hergé for his Moulinsart. It is located in the commune of Cheverny, which is also home to another 15th-century château (Troussay).
This is a stunning Loire Valley château that inspired Hergé for his Moulinsart. It is located in the commune of Cheverny, which is also home to another 15th-century château (Troussay).
Fougères-sur-Bièvre Castle
A medieval fortress rebuilt in the 15th century in the town of the same name.
A medieval fortress rebuilt in the 15th century in the town of the same name.
Château du Moulin
The building is a charming fortified château surrounded by its moat, built in the village of Lassay-sur-Croisne.
The building is a charming fortified château surrounded by its moat, built in the village of Lassay-sur-Croisne.
Villesavin Castle
A beautiful Renaissance castle located in Tour-en-Sologne, between Chambord and Cheverny.
A beautiful Renaissance castle located in Tour-en-Sologne, between Chambord and Cheverny.
Arville Commandery
Built in the 12th century, this is a Knights Templar commandery located in the village of Arville.
Built in the 12th century, this is a Knights Templar commandery located in the village of Arville.
Lavardin
The village is listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France" with the remains of its medieval castle, its Romanesque church, and its old houses.
The village is listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France" with the remains of its medieval castle, its Romanesque church, and its old houses.
Saint-Aignan
A small medieval town on the banks of the Cher River. It is also home to the Beauval Zoo, one of France’s top zoos.
A small medieval town on the banks of the Cher River. It is also home to the Beauval Zoo, one of France’s top zoos.
Trôo
This is an ancient troglodytic settlement north of Tours. Its layout, featuring terraced levels, caves, pathways, and staircases, is highly distinctive.
This is an ancient troglodytic settlement north of Tours. Its layout, featuring terraced levels, caves, pathways, and staircases, is highly distinctive.
Loire Valley
Across four departments (37, 41, 45, 49), the Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its towns, villages, and especially its châteaux between Sully-sur-Loire (45) and Chalonnes (49).
Across four departments (37, 41, 45, 49), the Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its towns, villages, and especially its châteaux between Sully-sur-Loire (45) and Chalonnes (49).
Vendôme
A departmental sub-prefecture with notable religious heritage and many half-timbered houses in its centre.
A departmental sub-prefecture with notable religious heritage and many half-timbered houses in its centre.
Natural Heritage
Sologne
A game-rich area of forests, marshes, and ponds covering part of the Centre region. Great for hiking.
A game-rich area of forests, marshes, and ponds covering part of the Centre region. Great for hiking.
Loiret (45)
Basilica of Notre-Dame de Cléry Saint-André
This is a 14th-century Gothic basilica located in the town of the same name.
This is a 14th-century Gothic basilica located in the town of the same name.
La Bussière Castle
A small 16th-century castle with its formal French garden, located in the village of the same name.
A small 16th-century castle with its formal French garden, located in the village of the same name.
Château de La Ferté Saint-Aubin
This is one of the châteaux of the Loire, located in La Ferté Saint-Aubin, about twenty kilometres from Orléans.
This is one of the châteaux of the Loire, located in La Ferté Saint-Aubin, about twenty kilometres from Orléans.
Sully-sur-Loire Castle
A charming Renaissance castle surrounded by moats, officially part of the Loire Valley Châteaux and thus UNESCO-listed in that context.
A charming Renaissance castle surrounded by moats, officially part of the Loire Valley Châteaux and thus UNESCO-listed in that context.
Gien
A canton capital on the banks of the Loire, Gien is known for its 15th-century castle and its faience pottery, for which there is also a museum in the town.
A canton capital on the banks of the Loire, Gien is known for its 15th-century castle and its faience pottery, for which there is also a museum in the town.
Montargis
This sub-prefecture of the Loiret department, which sees relatively few tourists, is its second-largest urban area.
This sub-prefecture of the Loiret department, which sees relatively few tourists, is its second-largest urban area.
Orléans
It’s a departmental and regional prefecture with a rather pretty city centre, a cathedral, and a much-visited floral park.
It’s a departmental and regional prefecture with a rather pretty city centre, a cathedral, and a much-visited floral park.
Briare Canal Bridge
This bridge, which includes a navigable canal, crosses the Loire at Briare. It is a fine example of late 19th-century engineering.
This bridge, which includes a navigable canal, crosses the Loire at Briare. It is a fine example of late 19th-century engineering.
Loire Valley
Across four departments (37, 41, 45, 49), the Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its towns, villages, and especially its châteaux between Sully-sur-Loire (45) and Chalonnes (49).
Across four departments (37, 41, 45, 49), the Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its towns, villages, and especially its châteaux between Sully-sur-Loire (45) and Chalonnes (49).
Yèvre-la-Ville
One of the "most beautiful villages in France", with its churches and the remains of its fortified castle in the Yèvre-le-Châtel area.
One of the "most beautiful villages in France", with its churches and the remains of its fortified castle in the Yèvre-le-Châtel area.
Natural Heritage
Saint-Pryvé-Saint-Mesmin Nature Reserve
On the outskirts of Orléans, a small protected area in the middle of the Loire, home to various bird species.
On the outskirts of Orléans, a small protected area in the middle of the Loire, home to various bird species.
Sologne
A game-rich area of forests, marshes, and ponds covering part of the Centre region. Great for hiking.
A game-rich area of forests, marshes, and ponds covering part of the Centre region. Great for hiking.
Nièvre (58)
Bibracte
A Celtic archaeological site (and its museum) in the heart of Burgundy, on Mont Beuvray and its 820 m. It straddles the departments of Nièvre and Saône-et-Loire.
A Celtic archaeological site (and its museum) in the heart of Burgundy, on Mont Beuvray and its 820 m. It straddles the departments of Nièvre and Saône-et-Loire.
Bazoches Castle
A charming medieval castle in the northern part of the Nièvre department, once owned by Vauban.
A charming medieval castle in the northern part of the Nièvre department, once owned by Vauban.
Château-Chinon
This small town, where François Mitterrand served as mayor for 22 years, is also the sub-prefecture of the Nièvre department.
This small town, where François Mitterrand served as mayor for 22 years, is also the sub-prefecture of the Nièvre department.
La Charité-sur-Loire
Touristically, this small town offers its abbey church, ramparts, and old town for visitors to explore.
Touristically, this small town offers its abbey church, ramparts, and old town for visitors to explore.
Nevers
The capital of the Nièvre department has an old town centre with a beautiful cathedral and a ducal palace.
The capital of the Nièvre department has an old town centre with a beautiful cathedral and a ducal palace.
Natural Heritage
Nivernais Canal
This canal in the Yonne and Nièvre regions, linking the Seine to the Loire, can be explored much like the Canal du Midi, whether on a river cruise or a walking or cycling trip.
This canal in the Yonne and Nièvre regions, linking the Seine to the Loire, can be explored much like the Canal du Midi, whether on a river cruise or a walking or cycling trip.
Morvan Regional Nature Park
This park of forests, hedgerows, and rivers spans the four departments of Burgundy. You can hike through some beautiful landscapes here.
This park of forests, hedgerows, and rivers spans the four departments of Burgundy. You can hike through some beautiful landscapes here.
Saône-et-Loire (71)
Cluny Abbey
Built in the 10th century, this Cistercian abbey was once one of the largest and most powerful in Europe.
Built in the 10th century, this Cistercian abbey was once one of the largest and most powerful in Europe.
Autun
This sub-prefecture still offers several remnants of its Roman past (temple, gate, theatre) and medieval era, along with a beautiful cathedral and a few other monuments.
This sub-prefecture still offers several remnants of its Roman past (temple, gate, theatre) and medieval era, along with a beautiful cathedral and a few other monuments.
Bibracte
A Celtic archaeological site (and its museum) in the heart of Burgundy, on Mont Beuvray and its 820 m. It straddles the departments of Nièvre and Saône-et-Loire.
A Celtic archaeological site (and its museum) in the heart of Burgundy, on Mont Beuvray and its 820 m. It straddles the departments of Nièvre and Saône-et-Loire.
Chalon-sur-Saône
It is the largest city in Saône-et-Loire, with a few historic buildings and the status of sub-prefecture.
It is the largest city in Saône-et-Loire, with a few historic buildings and the status of sub-prefecture.
Cormatin Castle
A stunning Renaissance-style castle with gardens, built in the village of the same name in the 17th century.
A stunning Renaissance-style castle with gardens, built in the village of the same name in the 17th century.
Pierre-de-Bresse Castle-Museum
A stunning 17th-century Renaissance castle that now also houses the Bresse Ecomuseum.
A stunning 17th-century Renaissance castle that now also houses the Bresse Ecomuseum.
Le Creusot
This city, with its enduring industrial tradition, is the third-largest in Saône-et-Loire.
This city, with its enduring industrial tradition, is the third-largest in Saône-et-Loire.
Mâcon
The prefecture of the department boasts a beautiful centre. It’s also, and above all, a great base for exploring the various wine cellars and estates of Burgundy and Beaujolais.
The prefecture of the department boasts a beautiful centre. It’s also, and above all, a great base for exploring the various wine cellars and estates of Burgundy and Beaujolais.
Paray-le-Monial
This small town in the Charolais region has an interesting centre with numerous religious buildings, starting with its Basilica of the Sacred Heart, which is a pilgrimage site.
This small town in the Charolais region has an interesting centre with numerous religious buildings, starting with its Basilica of the Sacred Heart, which is a pilgrimage site.
Semur-en-Brionnais
With the remains of its castle and its collegiate church, the village is part of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
With the remains of its castle and its collegiate church, the village is part of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
Natural Heritage
Morvan Regional Nature Park
This park of forests, hedgerows, and rivers spans the four departments of Burgundy. You can hike through some beautiful landscapes here.
This park of forests, hedgerows, and rivers spans the four departments of Burgundy. You can hike through some beautiful landscapes here.
Solutré Rock
Near Mâcon, this nearly 500 m cliff, which first held prehistoric significance, has also become a more or less popular hiking spot over time.
Near Mâcon, this nearly 500 m cliff, which first held prehistoric significance, has also become a more or less popular hiking spot over time.
Yonne (89)
Pontigny Abbey
This is a former Cistercian abbey near Auxerre, and the largest intact Cistercian building from the Middle Ages still standing today.
This is a former Cistercian abbey near Auxerre, and the largest intact Cistercian building from the Middle Ages still standing today.
Auxerre
The prefecture of Yonne boasts a charming centre with many half-timbered medieval houses and several medieval churches. Just nearby, you can also visit the famous Chablis vineyards.
The prefecture of Yonne boasts a charming centre with many half-timbered medieval houses and several medieval churches. Just nearby, you can also visit the famous Chablis vineyards.
Ancy-le-Franc Castle
Ancy-le-Franc Castle is a stunning Renaissance palace on the lands of the Dukes of Burgundy. It is located in the town of the same name.
Ancy-le-Franc Castle is a stunning Renaissance palace on the lands of the Dukes of Burgundy. It is located in the town of the same name.
Druyes Castle
Druyes is a 13th-century fortress, a key medieval site in Burgundy. Built by the Counts of Nevers, it is located in the village of Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines.
Druyes is a 13th-century fortress, a key medieval site in Burgundy. Built by the Counts of Nevers, it is located in the village of Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines.
Saint-Point Castle
A castle known for having been owned by Lamartine, which is why it is often also called Lamartine Castle.
A castle known for having been owned by Lamartine, which is why it is often also called Lamartine Castle.
Guédelon Castle Construction Site
Building a medieval castle using period techniques, this project started on this site in 1997 and is set to last 25 years.
Building a medieval castle using period techniques, this project started on this site in 1997 and is set to last 25 years.
Salt Springs
An archaeological site (Neolithic and Celtic periods) located within the perimeter of the Morvan Natural Park.
An archaeological site (Neolithic and Celtic periods) located within the perimeter of the Morvan Natural Park.
Rogny-les-Seven-Locks
This small village, as its name suggests, features a series of successive locks on the Briare Canal dating back to the late 19th century.
This small village, as its name suggests, features a series of successive locks on the Briare Canal dating back to the late 19th century.
Sens
A sub-prefecture and the second-largest city in the Yonne department, Sens is famous for its cathedral, which is believed to be the first Gothic-style cathedral ever built, in 1135.
A sub-prefecture and the second-largest city in the Yonne department, Sens is famous for its cathedral, which is believed to be the first Gothic-style cathedral ever built, in 1135.
Vézelay
This village with its ramparts and historic houses is renowned for its UNESCO-listed basilica, which attracts around a million visitors each year. Vézelay is also the starting point for one of the main pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela.
This village with its ramparts and historic houses is renowned for its UNESCO-listed basilica, which attracts around a million visitors each year. Vézelay is also the starting point for one of the main pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela.
Natural Heritage
Burgundy Canal
Stretching 240 km, it connects the Yonne to the Saône, crossing the Yonne and Côte d'Or departments. Like many canals, its purpose is now primarily tourist-focused, offering walks and river cruises.
Stretching 240 km, it connects the Yonne to the Saône, crossing the Yonne and Côte d'Or departments. Like many canals, its purpose is now primarily tourist-focused, offering walks and river cruises.
Nivernais Canal
This canal in the Yonne and Nièvre regions, linking the Seine to the Loire, can be explored much like the Canal du Midi, whether on a river cruise or a walking or cycling trip.
This canal in the Yonne and Nièvre regions, linking the Seine to the Loire, can be explored much like the Canal du Midi, whether on a river cruise or a walking or cycling trip.
Lake Bourdon
A large artificial lake for tourism (swimming, boating, hiking) located not far from Auxerre.
A large artificial lake for tourism (swimming, boating, hiking) located not far from Auxerre.
Morvan Regional Nature Park
This park of forests, hedgerows, and rivers spans the four departments of Burgundy. You can hike through some beautiful landscapes here.
This park of forests, hedgerows, and rivers spans the four departments of Burgundy. You can hike through some beautiful landscapes here.
Must-see & highly recommended
Azay-le-Rideau Castle
★★★★ One of the most beautiful and best-known of all the Loire Valley castles listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Built in the early 16th…
Chambord Castle
★★★★ It is one of the most famous and most visited Loire Valley castles, with its park and forest.
Chenonceau Castle
★★★★ One of the must-see attractions among the Loire Valley castles. It is also the most visited private monument in France.
Loire Valley
★★★★ Across four departments (37, 41, 45, 49), the Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its towns, villages, and especially its…
Recommended
Fontenay Abbey
★★★ Built in the 12th century, this is the oldest Cistercian abbey still standing. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for this reason.
Château d'Amboise
★★★ Overlooking the Loire and the town of Amboise, this royal Renaissance-style edifice is one of the Châteaux of the Loire. Around it, you can…
Ussé Castle
★★★ A beautiful castle with its formal French garden, part of the Loire Valley châteaux.
Chaumont-sur-Loire Castle
★★★ It is one of the Loire Valley castles classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is located between Amboise and Blois.
Cheverny Castle
★★★ This is a stunning Loire Valley château that inspired Hergé for his Moulinsart. It is located in the commune of Cheverny, which is also…
Cormatin Castle
★★★ A stunning Renaissance-style castle with gardens, built in the village of the same name in the 17th century.
Langeais Castle
★★★ It's an ancient medieval fortress overlooking the Loire in the heart of the small town of the same name.
Château de Maintenon
★★★ Along with its grounds, this is a very beautiful château that began construction in the 12th century and was completed during the…
Tanlay Castle
★★★ A stunning Renaissance landmark set in extensive grounds.
Valençay Castle
★★★ This magnificent castle is stylistically part of the Loire Valley Châteaux. It is located north of the Indre in the commune of Valençay.
Château de Villandry
★★★ A Renaissance château best known for its magnificent gardens near Tours. It is one of the Châteaux of the Loire.
Worth a look / Other
Cluny Abbey
★★ Built in the 10th century, this Cistercian abbey was once one of the largest and most powerful in Europe.
Noirlac Abbey
★★ A stunning 12th-century Cistercian abbey in Bruère-Allichamps, in the south of the department. It is one of the best-preserved abbeys in…
Apremont-sur-Allier
★★ On the border with Nièvre, Apremont is one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France", with its charming château enhanced by gardens and a…
Autun
★★ This sub-prefecture still offers several remnants of its Roman past (temple, gate, theatre) and medieval era, along with a beautiful…
Vézelay Basilica
★★ This Romanesque structure, dating from the 12th century, is a major pilgrimage site on the Way of St. James. It is a UNESCO World Heritage…
Beaune
★★ The capital of Burgundy wines and a major tourist destination in the region. Visitors come especially for the famous Hospices de Beaune…
Bibracte
★★ A Celtic archaeological site (and its museum) in the heart of Burgundy, on Mont Beuvray and its 820 m. It straddles the departments of…
Blois
★★ The city, a prefecture, is known for its beautiful château and the more or less historic districts of its center that stretch around it.
Bourges
★★ Though first known for its "Printemps," the prefecture of Cher also boasts a charming old town with half-timbered houses and a stunning…
Burgundy Canal
★★ Stretching 240 km, it connects the Yonne to the Saône, crossing the Yonne and Côte d'Or departments. Like many canals, its purpose is now…
Nivernais Canal
★★ This canal in the Yonne and Nièvre regions, linking the Seine to the Loire, can be explored much like the Canal du Midi, whether on a river…
Candes-Saint-Martin
★★ With its small châteaux, fortified church, and old houses, the village is one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
Bourges Cathedral
★★ Built in the 12th and 13th centuries in the Gothic style, Bourges Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Chartres Cathedral
★★ Built in the 12th and 13th centuries in the Gothic style, Notre-Dame Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Chartres
★★ The prefecture of the department offers a charming town centre and, above all, one of France’s most beautiful cathedrals, a UNESCO…
Ancy-le-Franc Castle
★★ Ancy-le-Franc Castle is a stunning Renaissance palace on the lands of the Dukes of Burgundy. It is located in the town of the same name.
Anet Castle
★★ A lovely Renaissance castle located near Dreux.
Bazoches Castle
★★ A charming medieval castle in the northern part of the Nièvre department, once owned by Vauban.
Bussy-Rabutin Castle
★★ A charming 12th-century castle with a 34-hectare park located northwest of Dijon.
Chamerolles Castle
★★ A 16th-century castle and its vast park built in Chilleurs-aux-Bois.
Chastellux Castle
★★ This is a well-preserved medieval fortress near Avallon.
Château de Gizeux
★★ A blend of medieval and Renaissance styles for this Loire Valley château on the border of Maine-et-Loire.
La Bussière Castle
★★ A small 16th-century castle with its formal French garden, located in the village of the same name.
Château de La Ferté Saint-Aubin
★★ This is one of the châteaux of the Loire, located in La Ferté Saint-Aubin, about twenty kilometres from Orléans.
La Rochepot Castle
★★ A charming 12th-century hilltop fortress surrounded by woods. With its pointed roofs, the building resembles a "Bavarian castle".
Saint-Fargeau Castle
★★ This is a castle rebuilt in the mid-15th century in the town of the same name.
Sully-sur-Loire Castle
★★ A charming Renaissance castle surrounded by moats, officially part of the Loire Valley Châteaux and thus UNESCO-listed in that context.
Château du Moulin
★★ The building is a charming fortified château surrounded by its moat, built in the village of Lassay-sur-Croisne.
Guédelon Castle Construction Site
★★ Building a medieval castle using period techniques, this project started on this site in 1997 and is set to last 25 years.
Pierre-de-Bresse Castle-Museum
★★ A stunning 17th-century Renaissance castle that now also houses the Bresse Ecomuseum.
Chinon
★★ It's a departmental sub-prefecture with an old castle, towers, a rather pretty centre, and several museums.
Flavigny-sur-Ozerain
★★ This old village northwest of Dijon is listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
Gargilesse-Dampierre
★★ A charming village in the south of Indre, with its castle, churches, and old houses. You can visit the home of George Sand, who spent part…
Montréal (89)
★★ A charming fortified village perched atop a hill near Avallon.
Montrésor
★★ A charming little riverside village with a castle and a medieval fortress.
Noyers
★★ A stunning medieval town, classified as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
Orléans
★★ It’s a departmental and regional prefecture with a rather pretty city centre, a cathedral, and a much-visited floral park.
Morvan Regional Nature Park
★★ This park of forests, hedgerows, and rivers spans the four departments of Burgundy. You can hike through some beautiful landscapes here.
Briare Canal Bridge
★★ This bridge, which includes a navigable canal, crosses the Loire at Briare. It is a fine example of late 19th-century engineering.
Solutré Rock
★★ Near Mâcon, this nearly 500 m cliff, which first held prehistoric significance, has also become a more or less popular hiking spot over…
Grand Crus Route
★★ This scenic route of about 60 km winds through Burgundy’s vineyards (a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2015), including some of the…
Saint-Benoît-du-Sault
★★ This is a small medieval village surrounded by ramparts, featuring a priory and a belfry. The town is labeled one of the "Most Beautiful…
Semur-en-Auxois
★★ A charming medieval town between Auxerre and Beaune, with its towers, ramparts, and old half-timbered houses.
Sologne
★★ A game-rich area of forests, marshes, and ponds covering part of the Centre region. Great for hiking.
Tours
★★ The capital of Indre-et-Loire lies at the heart of the Loire Valley and its châteaux. It’s a great base for exploring the surrounding…
Trôo
★★ This is an ancient troglodytic settlement north of Tours. Its layout, featuring terraced levels, caves, pathways, and staircases, is highly…
Vézelay
★★ This village with its ramparts and historic houses is renowned for its UNESCO-listed basilica, which attracts around a million visitors…
Vouvray
★★ This commune, renowned for its wine, boasts a charming château, troglodytic dwellings, and wine cellars.
Cîteaux Abbey
★ This is a Cistercian abbey located near Dijon.
Pontigny Abbey
★ This is a former Cistercian abbey near Auxerre, and the largest intact Cistercian building from the Middle Ages still standing today.
Thiron-Gardais Abbey
★ This is a 12th-century abbey located in the heart of the Perche region.
Alésia
★ This is the site of the famous battle between the Romans and Gauls, located in the present-day village of Alise-Sainte-Reine. Since 2012, a…
Auxerre
★ The prefecture of Yonne boasts a charming centre with many half-timbered medieval houses and several medieval churches. Just nearby, you…
Auxonne
★ A small town with various remnants of its military past (gates, ramparts, towers).
Avallon
★ Avallon is a large town southeast of Auxerre with an old town centre.
Basilica of Notre-Dame de Cléry Saint-André
★ This is a 14th-century Gothic basilica located in the town of the same name.
Bonneval
★ Bonneval is a charming fortified village in the Beauce region, an hour from Paris.
Bourré
★ A partly troglodytic village on the banks of the Cher, better known for its name than its underground dwellings.
Cellettes
★ This small commune of 2,500 inhabitants near Blois boasts no fewer than 18 châteaux within its boundaries, the main one being the Château…
Chalon-sur-Saône
★ It is the largest city in Saône-et-Loire, with a few historic buildings and the status of sub-prefecture.
Argy Castle
★ A Renaissance castle with English-style gardens in the village of the same name.
Châteauneuf Castle
★ It is a Burgundian military fortress dating from the 15th century, built on a hill.
Druyes Castle
★ Druyes is a 13th-century fortress, a key medieval site in Burgundy. Built by the Counts of Nevers, it is located in the village of…
Fougères-sur-Bièvre Castle
★ A medieval fortress rebuilt in the 15th century in the town of the same name.
Château de La Ferté Vidame
★ Although only a ruin of its façade remains, it is still impressive.
Maulnes Castle
★ This is a castle with a distinctive architecture dating from the mid-16th century.
Montpoupon Castle
★ This is a castle located near Tours.
Saint-Point Castle
★ A castle known for having been owned by Lamartine, which is why it is often also called Lamartine Castle.
Sarzay Castle
★ This medieval fortress-style castle was built in the 15th century in the southern part of the Indre department.
Talcy Castle
★ This is a Renaissance-style castle located in the commune of Talcy.
Villesavin Castle
★ A beautiful Renaissance castle located in Tour-en-Sologne, between Chambord and Cheverny.
Château du Rivau
★ A mid-15th-century fortified castle located in Lémeré, in the southern part of the Indre-et-Loire department.
Château-Chinon
★ This small town, where François Mitterrand served as mayor for 22 years, is also the sub-prefecture of the Nièvre department.
Châteaudun
★ A few kilometres west of Orléans, Châteaudun offers its château and a few historic quarters to visit.
Châteauroux
★ It's the prefecture of Indre at the heart of the department. It's not really a tourist stop.
Cirque du Bout du Monde
★ A small valley surrounded by limestone cliffs over 500 metres high. You can hike and go climbing here.
Arville Commandery
★ Built in the 12th century, this is a Knights Templar commandery located in the village of Arville.
Crissay-sur-Manse
★ A village listed among the "most beautiful in France", with its 15th- and 16th-century houses and the ruins of its castle overlooking the…
Dijon
★ The city of the Dukes of Burgundy has a rather pretty urban centre.
Dreux
★ The second-largest city in Eure-et-Loir and also a sub-prefecture, it is not very touristy.
Salt Springs
★ An archaeological site (Neolithic and Celtic periods) located within the perimeter of the Morvan Natural Park.
Gien
★ A canton capital on the banks of the Loire, Gien is known for its 15th-century castle and its faience pottery, for which there is also a…
Arcy-sur-Cure Caves
★ This is a group of caves, some of which are adorned with prehistoric paintings.
Issoudun
★ The town, a sub-prefecture, boasts several 15th-century old houses, as well as a medieval tower and belfry.
Joigny
★ A small town known for its castle and its typical half-timbered houses.
La Chapelle d'Angillon
★ This is the village of Alain Fournier and *Le Grand Meaulnes*. You can visit his birthplace and a museum dedicated to him, as well as the…
Charité-sur-Loire
★ Touristically, this small town offers its abbey church, ramparts, and old town for visitors to explore.
Lake Bourdon
★ A large artificial lake for tourism (swimming, boating, hiking) located not far from Auxerre.
Lavardin
★ The village is listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France" with the remains of its medieval castle, its Romanesque church, and its…
Le Creusot
★ This city, with its enduring industrial tradition, is the third-largest in Saône-et-Loire.
Loches
★ A historic town and a castle to visit in this other sub-prefecture of Indre-et-Loire.
Mâcon
★ The prefecture of the department boasts a beautiful centre. It’s also, and above all, a great base for exploring the various wine…
Montargis
★ This sub-prefecture of the Loiret department, which sees relatively few tourists, is its second-largest urban area.
Nevers
★ The capital of the Nièvre department has an old town centre with a beautiful cathedral and a ducal palace.
Paray-le-Monial
★ This small town in the Charolais region has an interesting centre with numerous religious buildings, starting with its Basilica of the…
Brenne Regional Nature Park
★ This is a vast area of marshes and ponds near Châteauroux.
Perche Regional Nature Park
★ This is a protected area spanning Orne and Eure-et-Loir. It is home to the Senonches forest, one of the largest in France.
Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Nature Park
★ Spanning both Indre-et-Loire and Maine-et-Loire, this vast park along the Loire River is a prime hiking area and home to numerous châteaux.
Orsan Priory
★ Located in Maisonnais, this 12th-century building features beautiful medieval-inspired gardens.
Saint-Pryvé-Saint-Mesmin Nature Reserve
★ On the outskirts of Orléans, a small protected area in the middle of the Loire, home to various bird species.
Rogny-les-Seven-Locks
★ This small village, as its name suggests, features a series of successive locks on the Briare Canal dating back to the late 19th century.
Jacques Coeur Route
★ This itinerary, primarily in the Cher department, aims to showcase its historical heritage. Castles, museums, and small villages feature…
Saint-Aignan
★ A small medieval town on the banks of the Cher River. It is also home to the Beauval Zoo, one of France’s top zoos.
Saint-Amand-Montrond
★ A sub-prefecture with a charming old town centre and the remains of what was once one of France’s largest medieval fortresses.
Semur-en-Brionnais
★ With the remains of its castle and its collegiate church, the village is part of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
Sens
★ A sub-prefecture and the second-largest city in the Yonne department, Sens is famous for its cathedral, which is believed to be the first…
Vix Burial Mound
★ A 5th-century BC Celtic burial site and its museum, located in the commune of Vix.
Tonnerre
★ East of Auxerre, the small town has a rather pretty urban centre.
Vendôme
★ A departmental sub-prefecture with notable religious heritage and many half-timbered houses in its centre.
Vierzon
★ One of the two sub-prefectures of the Cher department, not particularly touristy.
Yèvre-la-Ville
★ One of the "most beautiful villages in France", with its churches and the remains of its fortified castle in the Yèvre-le-Châtel area.