Things To Do
in Auray
Auray is a charming town located in the Brittany region of France. It is known for its picturesque medieval architecture and cobbled streets. One of the main attractions in Auray is the historic port of St. Goustan, lined with colorful houses and lively cafes.
Visitors can also explore the nearby megalithic sites and beautiful countryside surrounding the town.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Auray, stopping at local bakeries for fresh pastries. Visit the beautiful Saint-Goustan harbor for stunning views.
Enjoy lunch in one of the quaint restaurants along the harbor, then explore the historic Maison de l'Histoire et de la Mer. Take a leisurely walk along the river to appreciate the local scenery.
End your day with a peaceful dinner at a riverside restaurant, savoring the local seafood. Take a calming evening stroll along the waterfront as the sun sets.
Visit the Basilique Saint-Ann d'Auray and marvel at its impressive architecture. Spend some quiet time in the church, soaking in the historic atmosphere.
Head to the local market to sample regional products, then enjoy a picnic in a nearby park. Explore the local shops for unique souvenirs to take home.
Dine at an authentic crĂȘperie and indulge in delicious Breton galettes. Later, take a night walk to see the town beautifully illuminated.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical architecture and museums.
- Quaint and picturesque town with beautiful surroundings.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
- Friendly community with local events and markets.
- Proximity to the beautiful coastline and beaches.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Potentially fewer job opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Can be quite quiet, especially in the off-season.
- Weather can be unpredictable with wet winters.
- Higher cost of living compared to other rural areas in France.
Best Activities in Auray
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a boat trip or kayak through the stunning Gulf of Morbihan, known for its beautiful islands and rich biodiversity.
Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the famous Vélodyssée route, which offers picturesque views of the coastline and countryside.
Hike along the rugged coastline of the Quiberon Peninsula, taking in dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches.
Stroll through the local market held in Auray, where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and regional specialties.
Try your hand at fishing in the River Auray, a peaceful spot with plenty of opportunities for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Wander through the picturesque streets of Auray, visiting its charming shops, cafés, and historical sites.
Relax on the sandy shores of Plage de Kerhillio, a family-friendly beach perfect for swimming and picnicking.
Tours
Uncover the best of Auray with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Auray
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque harbor featuring charming old houses and stone bridges, providing stunning views of the river and the boats.
This chapel offers a serene setting with beautiful landscapes surrounding it, perfect for capturing both architecture and nature.
The impressive architecture of this church combined with its location makes for a captivating photo opportunity, especially at sunset.
A scenic walkway along the water's edge, ideal for taking photos of the vibrant harbor life and coastal scenery.
The ramparts of Auray provide elevated views of the town and surrounding area, perfect for sweeping landscape shots.
Just a short drive from Auray, this wild coastline features rugged cliffs and crashing waves, amazing for dramatic photos.
This central square is lined with typical Breton buildings and offers a lively atmosphere, great for capturing daily life and architecture.
A nearby viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the entire region, providing a breathtaking backdrop for photography.
Food in Auray
Auray Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A buttery, flaky pastry with caramelized sugar, perfect for a sweet treat. Best enjoyed at Maison Larnicol.
Must-Try!
A savory buckwheat crepe typically filled with ham, cheese, and egg. Sample this classic dish at CrĂȘperie Saint-Sauveur.
A dry or sweet apple cider, a staple in Brittany's beverage culture. Try the regional variations at Cidrerie-Distillerie Fisselier.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Auray better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market offers an array of fresh seafood, artisanal cheese, local fruits and vegetables, as well as ready-to-eat delicacies such as oysters and crĂȘpes.
Indulge in freshly caught seafood at the port's stalls, where you can savor an assortment of oysters, mussels, and fish prepared in traditional Breton styles.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Auray, it is customary to greet people with a friendly 'Bonjour' during the day and 'Bonsoir' in the evening. Always greet shopkeepers and people you interact with; it's a sign of politeness.
When dining, it's important to keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows). Wait for everyone to be served before starting your meal, and remember to say 'Bon appétit' before you start eating.
The French typically dress well, and a casual yet neat appearance is appreciated in public spaces. Avoid overly casual clothing like gym wear when visiting restaurants or shops in Auray.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Auray with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Auray
Ensure a smooth experience
In Auray, as in much of France, tipping is not obligatory as service charges are typically included in the bill. However, if the service is exceptional, it is common to leave a small gratuity, usually rounding up the total or leaving coins as a gesture of appreciation.
Payment methods in Auray include cash, credit, and debit cards. Most establishments accept major credit cards, but it's always wise to have some cash on hand for smaller shops or markets. Additionally, contactless payments and mobile payment apps are increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Auray.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Auray (March to May) offers mild weather with blooming flowers and vibrant landscapes. Temperatures range from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F). Expect fewer tourists, making it ideal for exploring the town's historic sites and enjoying outdoor activities.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Auray. The weather is warm, with temperatures averaging between 18°C and 25°C (64°F to 77°F). Expect vibrant festivals, bustling markets, and opportunities for water sports and beach activities nearby. Be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.
Autumn (September to November) features cooler temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The landscape is painted with stunning fall colors. Itâs a great time for peaceful exploration and enjoying local harvest festivals. Expect fewer tourists and a quieter atmosphere.
Winter (December to February) in Auray is generally mild but can be rainy and chilly, with temperatures between 2°C and 10°C (36°F to 50°F). While tourist numbers dwindle, visitors can experience a cozy ambiance, festive decorations, and local holiday traditions. Some attractions may have reduced hours.
Auray at Night
Hiking in Auray
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning coastal path that offers breathtaking views of the ocean, rocky cliffs, and the local flora and fauna. This trail is part of the GR34 long-distance footpath and is popular among hikers.
A serene area with well-marked trails, this park features a variety of landscapes, including woodlands, fields, and a peaceful lake. Ideal for leisurely hikes and nature walks.
A wild and rugged section of coastline located near Quiberon, famous for its dramatic cliffs and crashing waves. The hiking trails here provide stunning ocean views and opportunities for photography.
A beautiful forest with multiple walking trails, perfect for hiking and exploring the diversity of trees and wildlife in the area. Offers a peaceful retreat from urban life.
While primarily known for its historical significance, the area around the ChĂąteau has scenic paths that allow visitors to hike while enjoying views of the surrounding landscapes and the Gulf of Morbihan.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Auray through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Auray by plane.
The largest airport in the region, located approximately 115 kilometers from Auray, providing a range of international flights.
Located about 140 kilometers from Auray, this airport offers several international connections and serves as a key gateway to Brittany.
Located around 170 kilometers from Auray, this airport serves both domestic and some international flights.
Situated approximately 60 kilometers from Auray, this airport offers limited international flights, primarily to the UK.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Distribution of the population by various age categories, including children, working-age adults, and seniors.
Proportion of males to females within the population.
Diversity of ethnic backgrounds among residents, including French nationals and expatriates.
Assessment of the highest level of education attained by the population.
Breakdown of the population based on employment, unemployment, and industries of employment.
Variety of living arrangements including singles, families, and multi-generational households.
Distribution of income brackets among the residents.
The Soul of Auray
Discover the essence of Auray through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football, known as soccer in some countries, is one of the most popular sports in Auray, with various clubs and a strong local following.
Rugby is also highly regarded in Auray, with local teams competing in regional leagues and a passionate fan base.
Cycling is a popular activity in Auray, both as a competitive sport and a recreational pastime, taking advantage of the scenic routes in the region.
Given Auray's proximity to the coast, sailing is a popular sport among locals, with activities often held in the nearby waterways.
Basketball has a growing presence in Auray, with clubs for different age groups and a vibrant community supporting the sport.
Running is widely practiced in Auray, with organized events and a community that frequently participates in local races.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Auray.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many establishments in Auray provide vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, with options like buckwheat galettes filled with cheese, spinach, and mushrooms, or fresh vegetable platters.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy the local cuisine with options such as gluten-free galettes and seafood dishes without sauces containing gluten.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Auray with these cultural adventures.
