If you are fascinated by history and architecture, Bourges is a city that will meet your expectations. Its rich heritage makes it a city worth visiting. You will find vestiges from the Gallo-Roman era such as ramparts, which are visible near the town hall. Bourges' reputation also stems partly from its magnificent Saint-Etienne Cathedral. This architectural jewel leaves no one indifferent. If Bourges is not recognized at its true value, it is simply due to its geographical position. Bourges is located in the Cher department, in the center of France. You therefore have no access to the sea or a mountain range unlike other cities. But don't worry, you will always find something to visit!

1- Discover the Jacques Cœur Palace

Category: Cultural

Description: As a must-see in the city of Bourges, witnessing the medieval period, the Jacques Cœur Palace is a magnificent building. Built in 1443, the palace belonged to a powerful merchant, adventurer and even treasurer of King Charles VII. The Jacques Cœur Palace is an architectural jewel, which earns it consideration as one of the most sumptuous civil buildings in flamboyant Gothic style. All the rooms in this palace have different decorations. Since 1840, the Jacques Cœur Palace has been classified as a historical monument.

2- Discover a castle less than an hour from Bourges

Category: Gastronomic / Cultural

Description: As announced earlier, Bourges and its surroundings possess a strong historical heritage. Several buildings witness the various periods of our country's history, like the castle of Buranlure. Located less than an hour from Bourges, the medieval castle aims to be authentic. Its architecture and decoration have been substantially the same since 1769, since it has belonged to the Vogüé family. Restorations took place after World War II while ensuring to keep this spirit. Today classified as a historical monument, your castle visit will be topped off by a tasting of carefully selected wines.

3- Take a boat ride

Category: Unusual

Description: Bourges has a true green lung located just steps from the city center. A space of 135 hectares of cultivated gardens allows you to have a good time in a restful setting. In the past, the marshes were a natural defense, protecting Bourges. It was only in the 17th century that plots of land were shared among individuals to make small gardens. Several canals border the space, offering the possibility of beautiful boat rides.

Note: the activity is only available from May until the end of August.

4- Admire the Saint-Etienne Cathedral

Category: Cultural

Description: Obviously, the Saint-Étienne Cathedral is THE monument not to be missed during your visit to Bourges. No excuse is valid, you cannot miss this more than imposing building classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the historic center of Bourges, this cathedral founded in 1230 shows all the importance of religion and especially Christianity in medieval France.

5- Have a great time at the Printemps de Bourges

Category: Unusual / Cultural

Description: Let's leave the medieval side of Bourges for a moment to join the cultural side. The Printemps de Bourges is a music festival known throughout France. Created in 1977, it now attracts more than 90,000 visitors each year. It's a festival that takes place over five days, where no less than 80 artists of all kinds perform. You can listen to rock as well as R&B, through electro and contemporary music. Among the renowned artists who have performed there, we can mention Stromae, Aya Nakumura or the legendary French group Justice, and its captivating electro music.