Auxerre
Between wine and water

With its winding streets and rich heritage, Auxerre is a delightful town of historical and artistic interest, just a few kilometres from the Chablis vineyards. A place to explore and savour to the full...

Living art and history

Auxerre was involved in river trade from the 1st century. In the Middle Ages increasing numbers of pilgrims came to worship the relics of Bishop Saint Germain.

• The cathedral of St Etienne was built on the foundations of several Gallo-Roman buildings.
• The crypt of the Abbey of Saint Germain is adorned with some of the oldest wall paintings in France.

Come by river

Near the marina is the departure point for the canal du Nivernais with its 116 locks. Two of Auxerre's oldest districts are close to the marina.

• La Marine district has retained its narrow winding streets and half-timbered houses.
• Old Auxerre, with its pedestrianized streets, is grouped around the Tour de l'Horloge. Nearby was the home of Cadet Roussel, a famous figure of French nursery rhyme.

The Gothic chevet of the cathedral stands serenely above the banks of the Yonne. The town has examples of many different architectural styles, medieval, Renaissance and... Art Deco.

Music and flowers of the vine

In May a wine and local produce festival, called "Fleurs de vigne", takes place at the same time as water-based events for all the family.

On summer evenings the pavement cafés resound to a range of musical styles, all part of the "Garçon, la note!" festival.

Thrill seekers may care to watch an AJ Auxerre football match. Since 1905 this local team has played in more than 1,000 First Division matches and 100 European Cup matches.

Practical information

The Voyageur offers fun eco-friendly tours of the town in an electric family-sized vehicle. Details are available at the Auxerrois Tourist Information office, open all year, 7 days a week!

Address details

Office de tourisme de l'Auxerrois
1 et 2 quai de la République
89000 Auxerre
Tel. : +33 (0)3 86 52 06 19
E-mail : info@ot-auxerre.fr
http://www.ot-auxerre

Opening times

15th June to 15th September:
 - Monday to Saturday, 9am-1pm & 2-7pm
 -Sunday and bank holidays, 9.30am to 1pm & 3-6.30pm

16th September to 14th June:
 - Monday to Friday, 9.30am-12.30pm & 2-6.30pm
 - Saturday, 9.30am-12 noon & 2.30-6.30pm
 - Sunday, 10am-1pm

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