Things To Do
in Thiers

Thiers, located in the Auvergne region of France, is renowned for its rich history in cutlery manufacturing and stunning medieval architecture. The town is perched on a hill, offering picturesque views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore charming cobblestone streets and vibrant artisan shops that reflect the local craftsmanship.

Thiers is also a gateway to beautiful natural landscapes, making it a perfect destination for both history enthusiasts and outdoor lovers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Thiers
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Musée de la Coutellerie, where you can learn about the history of knife-making in Thiers. Afterward, stroll through the old town and admire the medieval architecture.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local bistro before heading to the Parc Naturel Régional Livradois-Forez for a hike. The park offers beautiful trails and stunning views of the region.

evening
:

Dinner at a traditional French restaurant followed by a relaxed evening walk along the scenic banks of the Durolle River.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then visit the Church of St. Genès and its impressive stained glass windows. Next, explore the local artisan shops for unique souvenirs.

afternoon
:

Take a picnic lunch to the nearby Parc des Puy des Vignes, where you can enjoy the outdoors and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Spend your afternoon wandering through the park's trails.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a visit to a local wine bar for tastings of regional wines and cheeses, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Thiers at night.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🏨Hotel Night$70
🍷Bottle of Wine$10
🚌Local Bus Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and culture focused on craftsmanship.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Charming, walkable town with friendly locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some services may have limited English-speaking staff.
  • Public transport options are not as extensive.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Où est…?" - Where is…?
  • "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
  • "L’addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Thiers

Visit one of these nice places.

Château de Thiers

An impressive castle offering stunning views of the town and the surrounding countryside, perfect for landscape photography.

Rue de la Coutellerie

A picturesque street lined with artisan shops and historical buildings, ideal for capturing the essence of Thiers.

Parc Naturel Régional Livradois-Forez

This natural park provides breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna, making it a great spot for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Thiers

Thiers offers a delightful range of local culinary experiences that reflect its rich heritage and regional ingredients.

Thiers Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Truffade

A hearty dish made with potatoes, cheese, and typically served with bacon or sausages.

Must-Try!

Pounti

A unique local dish made of pork and prunes, often served as a cold cut.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Thiers Market

Held every Saturday, this market features fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Thiers experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are warm and pleasant. Rain is relatively common throughout the year, so it's wise to carry an umbrella during your visit.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite greeting is essential; a simple 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants is expected.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to sit you and avoid starting your meal until everyone is served.

Personal Space

French culture values personal space; maintain a comfortable distance during conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Thiers is generally a safe town, but like any destination, it’s wise to be aware of your surroundings. Keep your belongings secure and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be contacted easily, and local hospitals provide good healthcare.

Tipping in Thiers

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common practice.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy mild weather and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the town.

Summer

Expect warm temperatures, perfect for hiking and enjoying outdoor dining; however, it can get crowded during peak tourist season.

Autumn

The foliage changes to vibrant colors, providing stunning landscape views and a great time for photography.

Winter

Colder temperatures, but a charming atmosphere with holiday decorations; some outdoor activities may be limited due to snow.

Nightlife Guide

Thiers at Night

Thiers has a relaxed nightlife scene with a few bars and restaurants that stay open late. The atmosphere is friendly, and you can enjoy live music in some venues. Wine bars showcasing local vintages are popular spots to unwind after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Thiers

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

GR 3 Trail

This long-distance trail offers stunning views and diverse landscapes, ideal for experienced hikers.

Les Gorges de la Durolle

A scenic hike through breathtaking gorges, perfect for nature lovers looking for a tranquil experience.

Airports

How to reach Thiers by plane.

Clermont-Ferrand Auvergne Airport

Located approximately 40 km from Thiers, this airport offers flights to various domestic and European destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Thiers is a compact town that is very walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance from each other. The cobbled streets and pedestrian-friendly areas encourage exploration on foot. Be prepared for some inclines due to the town's hilly terrain.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Artisans

A significant portion of the population is involved in traditional crafts, particularly knife-making, contributing to the town's cultural heritage.

Young Families

Thiers has a growing number of young families attracted by its quality of life, educational facilities, and recreational opportunities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is immensely popular in Thiers, with local clubs engaging the community and providing a source of pride.

Cycling

With its scenic routes and hilly terrain, cycling is a favored sport among locals, with various events held throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Thiers is generally light, and the town's layout makes it easy to navigate by foot or bicycle. Public transportation is available, but services may be limited, especially on weekends. Be prepared for narrow streets in the old town, which can be busy during peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Thiers.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-Free Choices

While gluten-free options may be limited, some eateries are accommodating if informed in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Thiers has accessible healthcare services, including a local hospital and several clinics. Emergency services are reliable, and pharmacies are plentiful throughout the town. For travelers from abroad, it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers health needs.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide