Advice

Let’s take a quick break to highlight some other points of interest that didn’t fit into the itinerary. To round off your visit to Auxerre, I highly recommend exploring the city’s various museums, which have earned it the charming nickname of the cultural capital of Burgundy. Start with the Musée Saint-Germain, next to the abbey of the same name, which is a key part of the city’s historical heritage; the Muséum of Natural History, exploring the region's biodiversity past and present; and the Musée Leblanc–Duvernoy, housed in an 18th-century mansion, showcasing an impressive collection of tapestries and ceramics.

For a taste of the city’s culinary specialties, be sure to visit the local markets, held on different days at Place de l’Arquebuse, Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, and in the city center on Wednesday mornings. Auxerre is also renowned for its vineyards, famous for its wines, especially Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Aligoté, and Crémant de Bourgogne. If you’re driving, you can also explore Chablis and its vineyard, one of the oldest in France, just 25 minutes from Auxerre.

If you’re up for venturing beyond Auxerre, there are several remarkable regional sites worth the trip. The archaeological site of Escolives Sainte-Camille takes you back to Roman times, revealing an ancient city along the Roman road of Agrippa, one of the era’s largest roads. Roughly 20 kilometers away lies the Abbey of Pontigny, the world’s largest still-standing Cistercian abbey.

Built in the 12th century, it’s beautifully preserved, showcasing a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Consider visiting Joigny, a City of Art and History, on the banks of the Yonne. From there, head to Noyers-sur-Serein, ranked among France’s Most Beautiful Villages.

Nearby, don’t miss the Château d’Ancy-le-Franc, a Renaissance palace with the largest collection of murals from that period. While you’re in the area, visit the Château de Tanlay, a stunning Renaissance manor that once served as a meeting place for the Huguenots. If you head in the opposite direction from Auxerre, the Château de Guédelon offers a unique experience.

It’s an active medieval castle under construction for over 25 years using 13th-century methods and tools. Less than an hour’s drive away, you’ll also find Vézelay, a breathtaking medieval village listed among France’s Most Beautiful Villages. With so much to see, you’ll have plenty to explore if you decide to stay a little longer in the region!