Things To Do
in Auch

Auch is a charming city located in the Gers department of southwest France, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. The city is famous for its impressive Cathedral of Saint Mary, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can enjoy the scenic banks of the Gers River and explore the picturesque old town filled with half-timbered houses.

Auch also serves as a gateway to the stunning landscapes of the Gascony region, famous for its gastronomy and wine culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Auch
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Cathedral of Saint Mary. Take a stroll through the medieval streets of Auch and admire the beautiful half-timbered houses.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café before heading to the Tour d'Armagnac for panoramic views of the city. Visit the Musée des Jacobins to learn about the region's history and culture.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Gascon restaurant and try local specialties. End the day with a leisurely walk along the banks of the Gers River.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your morning with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and fresh produce. Afterward, explore the Parc de la Garonne, a beautiful park ideal for a relaxing stroll.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a nearby bistro and then head to the nearby village of Flaran to visit the Abbey of Flaran, with its stunning architecture and art.

evening
:

Return to Auch for dinner at a cozy restaurant. Enjoy the nightlife by visiting a local bar for some traditional music or a glass of Armagnac.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🥖Baguette$1
🍷Glass of Local Wine$4
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🚍Bus Ticket$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious local cuisine and wines.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some attractions may have limited opening hours.
  • Public transportation options can be limited.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Où est ... ?" - Where is ... ?
  • "S’il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Je ne comprends pas" - I do not understand

Places to Visit in Auch

Visit one of these nice places.

Cathedral of Saint Mary

Capture the stunning façade and intricate details of this UNESCO World Heritage site, especially during golden hour.

Tour d'Armagnac

A great spot for panoramic shots of Auch and the surrounding landscapes, particularly beautiful at sunset.

Parc de la Garonne

A picturesque park with lush greenery and scenic river views, perfect for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Auch

Auch offers a delightful culinary experience, deeply rooted in Gascon traditions, featuring rich flavors and local ingredients.

Auch Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Confit de Canard

A traditional dish of duck leg that is slow-cooked in its own fat until tender and served with potatoes.

Must-Try!

Garlic Soup

A comforting soup made from garlic, bread, and sometimes egg, perfect for warming up on chilly evenings.

Armagnac

A distinctive brandy produced in the region, known for its rich and complex flavors.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché d'Auch

A vibrant market held in the city center every Saturday, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, and pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Auch experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 4°C (39°F) in winter to 28°C (82°F) in summer. Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months from April to June. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful natural scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Always greet shopkeepers and servers with a friendly 'Bonjour' when entering establishments.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal and keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) during dining.

Dress Code

Dress smartly when dining out, as casual attire may not be well-received in more upscale restaurants.

Safety Guide

Safety

Auch is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. It's advisable to keep your belongings secure and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Tipping in Auch

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A service charge is usually included in your bill, but rounding up or leaving small change for excellent service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a perfect time for outdoor festivals and exploring parks.

Summer

Warm and sunny weather, ideal for enjoying outdoor cafes and summer events, but also be prepared for occasional heatwaves.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage; a great time for wine tasting and local harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold weather with occasional frost; enjoy cozy indoor dining and the festive atmosphere during the holiday season.

Nightlife Guide

Auch at Night

Auch has a laid-back nightlife scene primarily centered around local bars and cafes. You can experience traditional music and dance in some venues, especially during local festivals. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place for both locals and visitors to mingle. For a more vibrant experience, you can head to larger nearby cities like Toulouse, which offers a wider range of clubs and entertainment options.

Hiking in Auch

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Coteaux

This hiking trail offers stunning views of the Gers countryside and is suitable for all levels of hikers, with a mix of challenging and easy sections.

Chemin de Saint-Jacques

Part of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, this trail provides a scenic walk through vineyards and historic sites, ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Auch by plane.

Toulouse-Blagnac Airport

Located approximately 85 km from Auch, this international airport offers flights to major cities across Europe and beyond, making it the nearest major airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Auch is highly walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance from each other in the city center. The cobbled streets and pedestrian-friendly areas make it easy to explore on foot. However, some hilly areas may require a bit more effort, but the scenic views are worth it.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Auch's population consists of local residents, who are friendly and welcoming to visitors and often engaged in agriculture and local businesses.

Tourists

A growing number of tourists visit Auch, particularly those interested in history, culture, and gastronomy, contributing to the local economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rugby

Rugby is a popular sport in the region, with local teams and matches often drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Cycling

Cycling is widely enjoyed in Auch, with many scenic routes available for both recreational and competitive cycling.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Auch is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include local buses that connect various parts of the city, but services may be limited outside peak hours. Cycling is also a popular mode of transport due to the city's bike-friendly infrastructure.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Auch.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with the chef for specific dietary needs.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are available in some restaurants, but it's recommended to inform the staff about your dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Auch is accessible, with several clinics and a hospital providing various medical services. Pharmacies are also available throughout the city for minor health issues. EU citizens should carry their EHIC card for healthcare access, while travelers from outside the EU are recommended to have travel insurance.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide