Things To Do
in Thiers
Thiers is a historic town in central France renowned for its knife-making heritage. It sits along the Durolle river in the heart of the Auvergne region, giving the town a compact, walkable center with cobbled streets. The town blends centuries-old craft with a lively food scene and easy access to the countryside.
Expect welcoming locals, artisanal shops, and views of the surrounding hills as you wander.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Thiers and settle into your charming accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque town center, admiring the historical buildings and local shops. Enjoy a coffee at a cozy café as you soak in the ambiance of this quaint French town.
Visit the renowned cutlery museum, where you can learn about Thiers' long-standing tradition of knife-making. Explore the various exhibits showcasing the craftsmanship and history of this unique trade. Don’t forget to browse the museum's gift shop for a locally made knife to take home.
Savor a traditional French dinner at a local bistro. Try regional specialties such as poulet aux écrevisses or some homemade tartiflette. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the river, enjoying the evening glow over the landscape.
Start the day by visiting the beautiful Saint-Genès church, an architectural marvel that dates back to the 12th century. Feel the weight of history as you admire the intricate stained glass windows and unique stonework. Spend some time reflecting in the nearby gardens.
Head to the bustling local market, where you can sample fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and homemade pastries. Engage with the friendly vendors and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. Take the opportunity to stock up on picnic supplies for a later adventure.
Enjoy a picnic dinner at Parc De La Basse, surrounded by the serene beauty of nature. Spread your blanket, indulge in your market finds, and relax as the sun sets. As night falls, take a moment to appreciate the starry sky away from the town's lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🧀Local cheese and wine | $8-15 |
| 🚆Public transportation single ride | $2-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich knife-making heritage and museums
- Charming historic center with scenic river views
- Pleasant dining with local Auvergne dishes
- Limited nightlife
- Small-town feel with fewer big-city amenities
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est…?" - Where is...?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Thiers
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic riverside landscape with historic water mills and lush greenery, especially photogenic at sunrise.
Cobbled streets and colorful façades around the central square provide classic street photography scenes.
Bridges and river reflections offer compositions with the town’s skyline.
Gothic details and elevated vantage points for cityscape shots.
Food in Thiers
Thiers Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting potato and cheese dish, typically made with tome fraîche or cantal-laden cheese and often served with sausage.
Must-Try!
A runny, warm cheese spread made from cantal cheese with garlic or onions, usually served with bread.
A robust pot-au-feu-style stew with pork, potatoes, cabbage, and vegetables.
Soft, fruity cheese typical of the region, enjoyed with bread or melted in dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, sausages, bread, and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with bonjour/bonsior; say goodbye when leaving; politeness goes a long way.
Keep hands visible, use utensils properly, and avoid raising voices in quiet spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Thiers
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included in many bills; rounding up or leaving 5-10% is customary if you’re pleased.
Cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for smaller shops; contactless is common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming landscapes; great for city walks and garden photography; rain possible.
Warm and dry days with lively markets and outdoor dining; late sunsets.
Cool to cold conditions; foggy mornings and crisp skies; good for moody landscape shots.
Thiers at Night
Hiking in Thiers
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged gorge with mills; scenic river views and forested sections.
Rolling hills with forests and scenic lookouts for day hikes.
Extensive network of trails through diverse landscapes and villages.
Airports
How to reach Thiers by plane.
Main regional airport, about an hour by car; connections to major French and some European destinations.
Major international hub about 2 hours by road/train; broad international connections.
Smaller regional airport serving select destinations; suitable for nearby travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families with schools and parks enjoy the town's family-friendly atmosphere.
A significant retiree population values the slower pace and cultural life.
Nearby training centers and a small student population support a lively, intimate cultural scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular pastime with local clubs and community leagues.
Hilly countryside ideal for road cycling and training routes.
Rural trails and equestrian centers in the surrounding countryside.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Thiers.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian options; look for dishes based on seasonal vegetables, eggs, cheeses, and legumes.