Advice

Let’s take a short break in your visit to mention a few other points of interest that didn’t make it into the main itinerary. If you’ve got a bit of extra time in Clermont-Ferrand, why not head over to the Montferrand district? Once a town in its own right before being joined to Clermont, it still has the charm of a medieval city, with beautiful old homes and private mansions that reflect its former wealth.

If you're in the mood for greenery and a relaxing stroll, Montjuzet Park is the perfect choice. It’s the largest green space in the city, offering both a peaceful walk in nature and a fantastic view over Clermont-Ferrand. For those who want to go even higher, head to the Pierre Carrée viewpoint, located in Orcines, just 5 kilometers from the city center.

This scenic spot is known for offering one of the most stunning panoramas of the city. A must-see in Clermont is the Michelin Aventure, an immersive journey into the world of the Michelin brand, and a chance to meet the iconic Michelin Man known as 'Bibendum'. You'll then understand why Clermont-Ferrand is nicknamed 'The City of Tyres'.

If you're staying for a few days and you love the outdoors, the hiking trails around the Puy de Dôme are within easy reach. It’s the highest volcano in the Chaîne des Puys, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offers breathtaking views over the Auvergne volcanoes. For something flatter and closer to the water, head to Lac Chambon, about a 45-minute drive from Clermont-Ferrand.

You can walk all the way around it in about an hour, and the lake is set up for swimming, with two public beaches. Not far from there, the village of Murol is home to the remains of a powerful medieval fortress perched on a rocky outcrop. Just a short walk from the city center, the village of Royat is well worth a visit.

Known for its thermal spa, it has lovely little streets perfect for a quiet stroll. A bit farther out — about a 25-minute drive — you’ll find Vulcania, a one-of-a-kind theme park in the heart of the Auvergne volcanoes. It's both a scientific discovery center and an immersive adventure into the world of volcanoes.

If you’d like to explore another town, head to Riom, a beautiful “Town of Art and History” with remarkable architecture in its historic center. Another nearby site full of historical significance is the Gergovie Plateau, an important landmark from the time of ancient Gaul, with a magnificent panoramic view over the region. Clermont-Ferrand lies in the heart of the vast Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Park, so if you’re planning to stay in the area, there are plenty of places to discover.

If climbing the Puy de Dôme left you wanting more, you can take on Puy de Pariou, Puy de la Vache, or, for more experienced hikers, the Puy de Sancy. If hiking isn’t your thing but you’d still like to explore the cultural heritage of the park, don’t miss Saint-Nectaire, a picturesque town with plenty of charm, Volvic, known for its water and volcanic stone, or the medieval town of Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise, at the foot of the Super-Besse ski resort. While you’re in that area, take time to visit the stunning Lac Pavin, a dramatic volcanic lake.

If you head in the opposite direction from Clermont, you’ll enter the Livradois-Forez Regional Park, where the town of Billom boasts a remarkably well-preserved medieval center. Further south, near Issoire, make a stop in Montpeyroux, ranked among the Most Beautiful Villages of France. Finally, Clermont is also a great base for exploring the castles of the Puy-de-Dôme.

Most are located in the northern part of the region. You can visit the Châteaux of Randan, Effiat, Portabéraud, Denone, or Tournoël, to name just a few. So there you have it — plenty of ideas if you decide to spend a bit more time exploring the region!