Things To Do
in Auch
Auch is a charming town located in southwestern France, known for its rich history and picturesque architecture. The town is dominated by the stunning Auch Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Visitors can wander the winding streets lined with half-timbered houses and quaint shops, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of this small French town.
Auch also offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, with rolling hills and vineyards stretching into the distance.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $20 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the impressive Sainte-Marie Cathedral, known for its stunning stained glass windows. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of the town afterward.
Head to the Musée des Amériques to learn about the region's rich history and diverse culture. Don't forget to take a break in the nearby Parc de la Garonne to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Dine at a local bistro to savor traditional Gascon cuisine. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the riverbank as the sun sets.
Visit the historic ChĂąteau d'Auch, where you can admire the medieval architecture and impressive views of the city. Engage in a guided tour to learn more about its rich history.
Explore the beautiful Place de la République, perfect for a relaxing lunch at a café with outdoor seating. Spend the rest of the afternoon browsing local shops and artisan boutiques.
Enjoy a delightful dinner at a restaurant that features regional dishes. Afterward, catch a live performance at the local theater or music venue.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful historical architecture, including the Cathedral of Auch and the old town.
- Rich cultural heritage with festivals and local traditions.
- Scenic countryside and proximity to the Pyrenees mountains.
- Pleasant climate with mild winters and warm summers.
- Vibrant local markets featuring fresh produce and regional products.
- Limited job opportunities, particularly for younger populations.
- Public transport options may be less frequent compared to larger cities.
- Potential language barrier for non-French speakers.
- Smaller entertainment and dining options compared to larger urban areas.
- Rural setting may limit access to certain amenities and services.
Best Activities in Auch
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic adventure on the water with canoeing or kayaking along the Gers River, surrounded by picturesque countryside.
Explore the beautiful landscapes of Auch and its surrounding areas by cycling the Voie Verte, a network of greenways providing excellent biking opportunities.
Immerse yourself in nature by taking a hike through the stunning Escaladieu Forest, which offers lush greenery, peaceful surroundings, and well-marked trails for all levels of hikers.
Places to Visit in Auch
Visit one of these nice places.
The Tour d'Armagnac is a medieval tower offering panoramic views of Auch and the surrounding countryside, making it a great spot for photos and breathtaking vistas.
The Cathédrale Sainte-Marie d'Auch, with its imposing architecture and elevated location, provides stunning views of Auch and the Gers region, creating ideal photo opportunities.
The Escalier Monumental is a monumental staircase leading to the upper town of Auch, offering picturesque views of the city and its historic landmarks, perfect for capturing memorable moments.
Food in Auch
Auch Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Indulge in the decadent and renowned local delicacy, foie gras, served in various forms such as terrine, pùté, or simply seared. Sample this at Le Petit Gascon, a popular restaurant known for its exquisite foie gras dishes.
Must-Try!
Don't miss trying the hearty cassoulet, a comforting slow-cooked casserole comprising white beans, duck, and, sometimes, Toulouse sausage. For an authentic taste, head to La Table d'Oste, a cozy restaurant offering an exceptional cassoulet experience.
Experience the unique flavors of dishes infused with locally produced Armagnac brandy. Visit Restaurant ChĂąteau Bellevue for a memorable dining experience featuring delectable Armagnac-infused specialties.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Immerse yourself in the vibrant Auch Market to explore a plethora of fresh produce, local cheeses, charcuterie, and regional specialties. While strolling through the market, relish in street food delights like flaky pastries and freshly made crepes.
Savor the laid-back ambiance of CafĂ© en Plein Air, a charming spot nestled in a picturesque square, offering an array of street foods such as artisanal sandwiches, crĂȘpes, and local delicacies, perfect for a casual gastronomic experience in the heart of the city.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Auch, France, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, a kiss on the cheek, or a simple 'Bonjour' (hello) when entering a room. Politeness and formality are important, so addressing people with 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' followed by their surname is considered respectful.
When dining in Auch, it's important to observe proper table manners and etiquette. Wait until everyone is seated before starting the meal, and maintain good posture while dining. Additionally, it's polite to compliment the host on the meal and to keep hands visible on the table.
Auch has a rich cultural heritage, so it's essential to respect local customs and traditions. Visitors should be aware of local festivals, religious practices, and historical sites, and show reverence towards them. It's also polite to attempt to speak some basic French as a sign of respect for the local language.
Safety
Tipping in Auch
Ensure a smooth experience
In Auch, France, it is common to leave a small tip of about 5-10% in restaurants if the service was exceptional. However, tipping is not obligatory and is not expected in all establishments.
In Auch, France, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payment. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or outdoor markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Auch is in spring, from April to June, when the weather is mild and the countryside is blooming with vibrant flowers. Expect pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making it ideal for exploring the historic sites and enjoying outdoor activities.
During the summer months of July and August, Auch experiences warm and sunny weather, making it a popular time for tourists to visit. Expect lively festivals, outdoor markets, and a bustling atmosphere. This is a great time to enjoy outdoor dining and leisurely strolls along the riverbank.
Autumn, particularly in September and October, brings cooler temperatures and the vibrant colors of fall foliage to Auch. It's a quieter time to visit, with the advantage of beautiful scenery and local harvest festivals. Expect comfortable weather for sightseeing and fewer tourists.
Winter in Auch, from November to February, can be chilly and rainy with occasional snowfall. Expect the city to have a quieter and more subdued atmosphere, but this time of year offers the opportunity to experience Christmas markets, delicious seasonal cuisine, and the festive spirit of the holidays.
Auch at Night
Hiking in Auch
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that takes you around beautiful lakes, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
A vast forest with numerous hiking paths, ideal for both casual walkers and serious hikers.
Wine country trails that combine beautiful landscapes with opportunities to explore local vineyards.
A regional park with a variety of hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging hikes, featuring diverse wildlife and flora.
Part of the historic pilgrimage route, this trail offers a mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Aiports
How to reach Auch by plane.
Located approximately 102 kilometers southeast of Auch, Toulouse-Blagnac Airport is the main international airport serving the Toulouse region and connects to various destinations worldwide.
Situated around 192 kilometers west of Auch, Bordeaux-MĂ©rignac Airport offers numerous international flights and is a key airport for the Aquitaine region of France.
Approximately 114 kilometers southwest of Auch, Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées Airport serves the Hautes-Pyrénées region and provides both domestic and limited international flights.
Located around 155 kilometers to the east of Auch, Carcassonne Airport is a smaller airport serving regional and some international routes, popular for tourism.
About 150 kilometers to the southwest of Auch, Pau Pyrénées Airport mainly serves domestic flights with some international destinations, offering access to the Béarn region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group, primarily composed of those with French ancestry and cultural heritage.
A significant demographic group, largely due to historical ties between France and Algeria.
An ethnic group originating from North Africa, some of whom reside in Auch, often alongside the Algerian community.
A community with origins from Spain, particularly those who migrated during the 20th century.
An established demographic stemming from migration patterns, notably during the post-World War II era.
Includes various small communities from other European countries, contributing to the multicultural fabric of Auch.
Refers to recent immigrants from various African nations beyond Algeria, adding to the city's diversity.
A smaller group with origins from countries in Asia, contributing to the multiculturalism of the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is a popular sport in Auch, with a strong local club culture and a tradition of competitive play.
Football is widely played and followed in Auch, with many local teams competing at various levels.
Basketball is also a popular sport in Auch, with several clubs providing opportunities for youth and adults.
Cycling is a favored activity in Auch, thanks to the scenic routes and the region's favorable terrain.
Athletics, including running, jumping, and throwing events, has a strong following in Auch with local athletics clubs.
Handball has a dedicated community in Auch with teams representing the town in regional competitions.
Swimming is a popular recreational and competitive sport in Auch, supported by local facilities and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Auch.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Auch's culinary scene predominantly features meat-based specialties, many restaurants offer flavorful vegetarian and vegan options, such as delectable vegetable tarts, salads bursting with local produce, and savory vegan crepes.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can savor gluten-free adaptations of traditional dishes, including cassoulet made with gluten-free grains, and discover gluten-free pastries and baked goods at select patisseries and bakeries in Auch.