Auvergne, France Travel Guide

Explore Auvergne: Volcanic landscapes, medieval charm, and culinary delights in France's picturesque heartland.

Nestled in the heart of France, Auvergne is a region of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, Auvergne offers an array of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and skiing. The region's Puy de Dôme, a dormant volcano, provides breathtaking panoramic views and is a popular spot for paragliding and other adventure sports. The region is also home to charming medieval towns and villages, such as Le Puy-en-Velay and Salers, where cobblestone streets and historic architecture transport you back in time. Auvergne's rich culinary heritage is another highlight, with local specialties including cheeses like Saint-Nectaire and Bleu d'Auvergne, and hearty dishes such as truffade and aligot. Cultural enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Auvergne's numerous castles, churches, and museums. The region's spa towns, such as Vichy, offer relaxation and rejuvenation with their renowned thermal waters. Whether you're an adventurer, a history buff, or a foodie, Auvergne has something to offer every traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Auvergne.

Visit the Puy de Dôme early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views.
Try the local cheeses; they are some of the best in France.
Take a guided tour of Le Puy-en-Velay to fully appreciate its history and architecture.
If you enjoy hiking, explore the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Park.
Don’t miss the thermal baths in Vichy for a relaxing experience.

Top City Travel Guides in Auvergne

The cities of Auvergne, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Lyon

Limoges

Destinations in Auvergne

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Cévennes National Park

Auvergne Volcanoes

Dordogne Valley

Gorges du Tarn

Tarn Gorges

Explore Auvergne: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Auvergne

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Cascade du Déroc

Explore the enchanting Cascade du Déroc in Nasbinals, a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush landscapes and breathtaking views.

4.6

Parc naturel régional des volcans d'Auvergne

Discover France's volcanic heartland: Hike ancient peaks, explore charming villages, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d'Auvergne.

4.6

Rocher Saint-Michel d'Aiguilhe

Discover the Rocher Saint-Michel d'Aiguilhe, a stunning chapel perched atop a volcanic rock, offering breathtaking views and a journey through centuries of history and faith in the heart of France.

4.6

Vulcania

Explore the thrilling world of volcanoes and Earth science at Vulcania, France's premier amusement park, offering interactive exhibits, immersive experiences, and unforgettable adventures for all ages.

4.1

Best landmarks in Auvergne

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Rocher Saint-Michel d'Aiguilhe

Discover the breathtaking Rocher Saint-Michel d'Aiguilhe, a historic chapel with stunning views and rich cultural heritage in Aiguilhe, France.

4.6

Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park

Discover France's largest volcanic park: hike ancient trails, explore diverse landscapes, and immerse yourself in Auvergne's natural beauty.

4.6

Cathédrale Notre-Dame-du-Puy

Discover a UNESCO World Heritage site, a blend of architectural styles, and a centuries-old pilgrimage destination in Le Puy-en-Velay.

4.7

Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption

Discover Clermont-Ferrand's iconic Gothic cathedral, a striking masterpiece built from black lava stone with soaring spires and stunning stained glass.

4.6

Best restaurants in Auvergne

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Buron du Col de la Croix Morand

Discover authentic French flavors at Buron du Col de la Croix Morand, where culinary excellence meets breathtaking mountain scenery.

4.7

La Vieille Etable

Experience the charm of traditional French cuisine at La Vieille Etable in Mont-Dore - a culinary delight surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

4.2

Le Bistrot d'à Côté

Experience the best of modern French cuisine at Le Bistrot d'à Côté - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

4.7

Le Village Auvergnat

Savor authentic French cuisine in Orcines at Le Village Auvergnat – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

4.4

Best bars in Auvergne

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The Still Irish Bar

Discover the heart of Irish culture at The Still Irish Bar in Clermont-Ferrand, offering cozy ambiance, hearty meals, and an extensive drink selection.

4.4

Les BerThoM

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Clermont-Ferrand at Les BerThoM, a bar that combines charm, great drinks, and a lively atmosphere.

4.4

The Salvation Jane Pub

Discover the lively ambiance and unique craft beers at The Salvation Jane Pub in Clermont-Ferrand, a perfect spot for tourists seeking local culture.

4.7

Delirium Café

Discover Delirium Café in Clermont-Ferrand, a vibrant beer hall offering an extensive selection of brews in a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Auvergne

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Le them's

Dive into the vibrant nightlife at Le Them's, Clermont-Ferrand's must-visit disco club for an unforgettable party experience.

3.3

Bombshell

Discover Clermont-Ferrand's nightlife at Bombshell, an electrifying night club perfect for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.

3.7

Le Middle Night

Discover the electric nightlife of Clermont-Ferrand at Le Middle Night, the ultimate disco club for music lovers and party enthusiasts.

3.1

One o One 101

Dive into the heart of Clermont-Ferrand's nightlife at One o One 101, where dance, music, and unforgettable moments await.

3.4

Best shops in Auvergne

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Centre Jaude

Experience shopping, dining, and entertainment at Centre Jaude, the vibrant heart of Clermont-Ferrand's retail scene.

4.2

La Galerie Nacarat

Discover the vibrant shopping experience at La Galerie Nacarat in Clermont-Ferrand, where fashion meets convenience in a stunning mall setting.

4.0

Galeries Lafayette Clermont

Discover the charm of Galeries Lafayette Clermont, a shopping paradise offering fashion, beauty, and unique finds in the heart of Clermont-Ferrand.

4.0

Market Commentry

Discover the flavors of Commentry at Market Commentry, a vibrant supermarket offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and unique culinary experiences.

4.0

Explore Auvergne on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Auvergne, mapped for you.

Auvergne Essentials

Auvergne is located in the central part of France. The main gateway to Auvergne is Clermont-Ferrand Auvergne Airport (CFE), which connects to several major European cities. Alternatively, you can take a train from Paris, which takes about 3 to 4 hours. The region is also accessible by car via the A71 and A75 highways.
Public transportation in Auvergne includes buses and trains that connect major towns and cities. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the scenic countryside and remote villages. Biking is also popular, with numerous trails available for cycling enthusiasts. Taxis and ridesharing services are available in larger towns like Clermont-Ferrand.
The official currency in France is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. It's advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting rural areas and smaller establishments. ATMs are readily available in towns and cities across Auvergne.
Auvergne is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Clermont-Ferrand and other larger towns have relatively low crime rates, but it's always best to stay vigilant.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Clermont-Ferrand has several hospitals and medical facilities, including CHU Clermont-Ferrand. Pharmacies are available in most towns for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Don't wear overly casual clothing when dining in fine restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trains and buses. Don't speak loudly on public transportation. Greetings: Do greet people with a polite 'Bonjour' and a handshake. Don't use first names until invited to do so. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Auvergne cheese and truffade. Don't rush through meals; dining is a leisurely experience in France.
To experience Auvergne like a local, visit the weekly markets in towns like Issoire and Le Puy-en-Velay, where you can buy fresh produce and local crafts. Try to learn a few basic French phrases to communicate with locals. Don't miss exploring the volcanic landscapes of the Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d'Auvergne. For a unique experience, take a ride on the Panoramique des Dômes train to the summit of Puy de Dôme for stunning views.

When is the best time to visit Auvergne?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Auvergne

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Auvergne. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloSalut
  [[sa.ly]]
- GoodbyeAu revoir
  [[o ʁə.vwaʁ]]
- YesOui
  [[wi]]
- NoNon
  [[nɔ̃]]
- Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît
  [[sil vu plɛ]]
- Thank youMerci
  [[mɛʁ.si]]
- Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi
  [[ɛk.sky.ze mwa]]
- How are you?Comment ça va?
  [[kɔ.mɑ̃ sa va]]
- Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [[bjɛ̃ e vu]]
- Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [[paʁ.le vu ɑ̃.ɡlɛ]]
- I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [[ʒə nə kɔ̃.pʁɑ̃ pa]]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
  [[ʒə vu.dʁɛ vwaʁ lə mə.ny sil vu plɛ]]
- I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [[ʒə nə mɑ̃ʒ pa də vjɑ̃d]]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [[sɑ̃.te]]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [[ʒə vu.dʁɛ pe.je sil vu plɛ]]
- Help!Au secours!
  [[o sə.kur]]
- Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [[a.le vu zɑ̃]]
- Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [[a.pe.le la pɔ.lis]]
- Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [[a.pe.le ɛ̃ mɛ.dɛ.sɛ̃]]
- I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [[ʒə sɥi pɛʁ.dy]]
- I'm illJe suis malade
  [[ʒə sɥi ma.lad]]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [[ʒə vu.dʁɛ aʃ.te]]
- I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [[ʒə ʁə.ɡaʁd ʒyst]]
- How much is it?C'est combien?
  [[sɛ kɔ̃.bjɛ̃]]
- That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [[sɛ tʁo ʃɛʁ]]
- Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [[pu.ve vu be.se lə pʁi]]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [[kɛl œʁ ɛ.til]]
- It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [[il ɛ y.nœʁ]]
- Half past (10)Dix heures et demie
  [[dis œʁ e də.mi]]
- MorningMatin
  [[ma.tɛ̃]]
- AfternoonAprès-midi
  [[a.pʁɛ.mi.di]]
- EveningSoir
  [[swaʁ]]
- YesterdayHier
  [[jɛʁ]]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [[o.ʒuʁ.dɥi]]
- TomorrowDemain
  [[də.mɛ̃]]
- 1Un
  [[œ̃]]
- 2Deux
  [[dø]]
- 3Trois
  [[tʁwa]]
- 4Quatre
  [[katʁ]]
- 5Cinq
  [[sɛ̃k]]
- 6Six
  [[sis]]
- 7Sept
  [[sɛt]]
- 8Huit
  [[ɥit]]
- 9Neuf
  [[nœf]]
- 10Dix
  [[dis]]
- Where's a/the...?Où est un/une...?
  [[u ɛ ɛ̃/yn]]
- What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [[kɛl ɛ l.a.dʁɛs]]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [[pu.ve vu mə mɔ̃.tʁe syʁ la kaʁt]]
- When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [[kɑ̃ ɛ lə pʁo.ʃɛ̃ bys]]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)
  [[œ̃ bi.jɛ puʁ]]

History of Auvergne

The history of Auvergne traces back to ancient times when the region was inhabited by the Arverni, a powerful Gallic tribe. The Arverni were formidable opponents to the Roman Empire, particularly under the leadership of Vercingetorix, who famously united the Gauls in a rebellion against Julius Caesar in 52 BCE. The Battle of Gergovia, in which Vercingetorix managed to defeat Caesar's forces, is a significant historical event that took place in the heart of Auvergne.
Following the ultimate defeat of Vercingetorix and the Arverni, Auvergne became part of the Roman Empire. The Romans left a lasting mark on the region, establishing cities, roads, and thermal baths. The city of Clermont-Ferrand, known as Augustonemetum in Roman times, was a significant center of Roman culture and administration. Remnants of Roman architecture and infrastructure can still be seen throughout the region.
During the Middle Ages, Auvergne was a patchwork of feudal territories ruled by local lords. The region saw the construction of numerous castles and fortifications, many of which still stand today. The Château de Murol and Château de Tournoël are prime examples of medieval fortresses that reflect the turbulent history of feudal Auvergne. The region's strategic location made it a frequent battleground during conflicts such as the Hundred Years' War.
Auvergne has a rich religious heritage, marked by the construction of many Romanesque churches and abbeys. The basilica of Notre-Dame-du-Port in Clermont-Ferrand and the Abbey Church of Saint-Austremoine in Issoire are exemplary Romanesque structures that highlight the region's religious importance during the medieval period. These sacred sites not only served as places of worship but also as centers of learning and pilgrimage.
The Renaissance brought cultural and architectural transformation to Auvergne. The region experienced an influx of Renaissance art and ideas, which is evident in the architecture of towns such as Le Puy-en-Velay. The Wars of Religion between Catholics and Huguenots also left their mark on the region, leading to periods of conflict and reconstruction. The Edict of Nantes in 1598, which granted religious tolerance to Protestants, was a significant turning point for Auvergne.
The 19th century saw significant industrial development in Auvergne. The region, rich in natural resources, became an important center for the textile and metal industries. The development of the railway network further spurred economic growth, connecting Auvergne to major French cities. Clermont-Ferrand emerged as an industrial hub, particularly with the establishment of the Michelin tire company in 1889, which had a profound impact on the region's economy and global reputation.
In the 20th century, Auvergne continued to evolve, balancing industrial growth with the preservation of its natural and cultural heritage. The region played a role in both World Wars, with resistance movements active during the German occupation in World War II. Post-war, Auvergne embraced modernization while maintaining its unique identity. Today, Auvergne is celebrated for its stunning landscapes, thermal spas, and rich cultural traditions, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.