Things To Do
in Aurillac
Aurillac sits in the volcanic heartland of the Massif Central and serves as the capital of the Cantal department. Its historic center unfurls along narrow streets and stone façades, offering a glimpse into medieval and later eras. The town thrives on a vibrant market life, outdoor culture, and Auvergne flavors rooted in pastoral traditions.
Surrounded by rolling hills and river valleys, Aurillac blends heritage with nature and a friendly, village-like atmosphere year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Aurillac, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the Place de l'Hôtel de Ville. Stop by a local café for a traditional French breakfast of croissants and café au lait while soaking in the morning atmosphere. As the town awakens, visit the Saint-Géraud Church, which showcases magnificent Romanesque architecture and intricate stained glass windows.
After lunch at a bistro specializing in regional cuisine, head to the Museum of Aurillac, which offers a glimpse into the history and art of the region. Explore the quaint streets lined with charming shops and boutiques, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs and local crafts. Don't miss the chance to relax in the Parc des Capucins, where you can enjoy a peaceful moment surrounded by nature.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in a classic French dish like aligot or truffade. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the streets illuminated by soft lights, allowing the ambiance of Aurillac to envelop you. End your day at a local bar, where you can mingle with locals and enjoy a glass of Auvergne wine.
Start your day at the vibrant Aurillac market, held every Wednesday and Saturday, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture. Stroll through the colorful stalls filled with fresh produce, handmade goods, and local delicacies while chatting with friendly vendors. Take the opportunity to sample some regional cheeses and pastries as you enjoy the lively atmosphere.
After exploring the market, enjoy a picnic lunch in the nearby Parc de la Victoire, where you can relax under the shade of the trees. In the afternoon, visit the local artisan workshops to see how traditional crafts such as pottery and weaving are made, and perhaps even participate in a hands-on workshop. This is a great way to connect with the artistic spirit of the region.
For dinner, choose a restaurant that offers a tasting menu featuring local specialties, allowing you to savor the flavors of the Auvergne region. After your meal, take a guided evening walking tour that reveals the hidden gems and stories of Aurillac’s past. Enjoy the enchanting ambiance of the city as it transitions from day to night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-5 |
| 🚎One-way public transport ticket | $2-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-140 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming historic center with authentic Auvergne cuisine
- Easy access to nature and scenic viewpoints
- Relaxed pace of life with welcoming locals
- Strong market culture and regional cheeses and dishes
- Smaller nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Limited public transit outside the town center
- Weather can be unpredictable in the mountains
- Some traditional eateries may have limited vegetarian/vegan options
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est… ?" - Where is…?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Je voudrais…" - I would like...
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un plat local ?" - Could you recommend a local dish?
- "Je suis perdu" - I am lost
Places to Visit in Aurillac
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic river bridge with arches and reflections, ideal for sunrise or blue-hour shots.
Soft light falling on market stalls and colorful produce creates dynamic textures for street photography.
Narrow, stone-paved lanes with timber-framed facades and charming doorways provide intimate compositions.
A prominent silhouette against the skyline, offering dramatic angles and architectural details.
Food in Aurillac
Aurillac Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy mash of potatoes blended with cantal cheese, butter, and cream; a filling accompaniment or main dish.
Must-Try!
Potatoes melted with cantal cheese and sometimes lardons; a beloved Auvergne comfort dish.
A savory herb loaf with pork, prunes, and sometimes chestnuts, often served warm.
A pork sausage with a distinctive flavor, typically grilled or sautéed and enjoyed with mustard or herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic covered market where you can taste cheeses, charcuterie, honey, vegetables, and freshly baked bread.
A traditional market offering local produce, cheeses, pastries, and baked goods on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say 'Bonjour' (or 'Bonsoir') when entering shops or cafés; a brief polite interaction is appreciated.
Keep hands visible, use utensils properly, and avoid rushing hosts; meals are social occasions in Auvergne.
Respect quiet residential areas in evenings; take the time to thank service staff and guides.
Safety
Tipping in Aurillac
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included; rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is common but not required.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common, especially in shops and cafes. ATMs are plentiful in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days with blooming trees; great for walking tours and outdoor markets. Pack a light layer for cool mornings.
Warm days with long daylight hours; occasional thunderstorms; outdoor festivals and terrace dining are common.
Harvest vibes and colorful hills; pleasant temperatures for hiking and photography, with variable rainfall.
Cold with possible snow; charming lights and markets in the town center; layers and waterproof footwear recommended.
Aurillac at Night
Hiking in Aurillac
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside walk with shaded paths, bridges, and viewpoints along the Jordanne.
Longer alpine-like routes offering expansive panoramas over volcanic landscapes.
Open pastures and scattered villages with easy to moderate trails and striking vistas.
Airports
How to reach Aurillac by plane.
Local regional airport serving domestic and shorter international routes, about 20 minutes from central Aurillac by car.
Major airport hub for the region with connections to Paris and beyond, roughly 2 hours by car.
Regional airport offering several domestic links, about 1.5 hours by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A stable community with good schools and family-friendly activities.
Youth and education-focused residents supported by local colleges and cultural programs.
A rural economy with agricultural periods and seasonal labor needs.
Visitors drawn to markets, cuisine, and outdoor scenery, especially during festivals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and matches are common; a popular pastime in town.
A regional favorite with local teams and community support.
Road and mountain biking opportunities amid rolling hills and plateaus.
Nearby slopes in the Massif Central provide seasonal activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aurillac.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most courses can be adapted; look for veggie galettes, mushroom dishes, or roasted vegetables; ask to substitute lardons or meat with extra cheese or eggs.
Options may be limited in traditional eateries; opt for vegetable-focused plates, salads, and bread with olive oil; request plant-based preparations when possible.