Autun - Discovering France

Travelling to Autun

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Autun, a pretty good destination in France (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Autun and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Autun, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through France, here's everything to know about Autun for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Autun

Autun is a small town located in the Burgundy region of France. It is famous for its rich history, medieval architecture and beautiful countryside. The town was founded during the Roman Empire and has many ancient sites, including a well-preserved amphitheater and temple. The town also boasts a Gothic cathedral and many other historic churches. The surrounding countryside is perfect for hiking and cycling, and the town is a popular stop for those visiting the nearby vineyards and wineries. Autun is also known for its gastronomy, which includes traditional Burgundian dishes like escargots de Bourgogne and Boeuf Bourguignon.

What to visit in Autun

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Autun, France: 1. Cathédrale Saint-Lazare: This is a beautiful Romanesque cathedral that took almost 100 years to build. Its portals and sculptures are particularly impressive. It also houses a museum with a large collection of religious art.
2. Musée Rolin: This museum is located in an old Renaissance mansion and displays a variety of art, artifacts, and archaeological finds from the Gallo-Roman period.
3. Porte d'Arroux: This well-preserved ancient gate dates back to the 1st century AD and is one of the most important and impressive archaeological sites in Autun.
4. Temple de Janus: This is a rare example of a Roman temple still standing in France. It dates back to the 1st century and is dedicated to Janus, the god of beginnings and endings.
5. Lac des Settons: This scenic lake is located a short drive from Autun and is a popular spot for water sports, hiking and biking.
6. Mont Beuvray: Located just outside Autun, this is a popular hiking destination with stunning views from the top. It was once the site of a major Gallic settlement and now has a museum and archaeological site.
7. Les Bibractes: Another major archaeological site just outside of Autun, Les Bibractes was a major Gallic city that was destroyed by the Romans. It's now an important site for archaeologists and history buffs.
These are just a few of the many attractions in and around Autun. Each offers a unique insight into the history and culture of this charming French town.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in France, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Autun.

When to go on holiday to Autun

The best time to visit Autun in France is during the summer months of June, July, and August when the weather is warm and sunny. However, it is also worth considering visiting during the shoulder season, which is in May and September, as the weather is still pleasant but there are fewer crowds and cheaper prices. It's important to note that Autun is a popular destination for tourists, so it's best to book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during the peak season.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Autun

There are several ways to get to Autun, France depending on your starting point.
By plane: - The nearest airport is Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, which is approximately 2 hours by car from Autun. From the airport, you can take a train or bus to Autun.
By train: - Autun is connected to major French cities through the SNCF train network. You can take a train to Autun from Paris, Dijon or Lyon.
By car: - Autun is located about 300 km southeast of Paris, and can be easily reached by car. Take the A6 motorway towards Lyon and exit at either Chalon-sur-Saône or Beaune, then follow the signs to Autun.
By bus: - There are several bus companies that offer transportation to Autun from nearby cities such as Dijon and Chalon-sur-Saône.
By bike: - Autun is also a popular destination for cyclists. There are several biking routes that connect Autun to other nearby cities.
Overall, the most convenient mode of transportation to get to Autun will depend on your starting point and individual preferences.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Autun, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Autun

Autun is a small yet charming town located in the Burgundy region of France, renowned for its fresh and flavorful cuisine. Here are some of the typical foods you should try out when visiting Autun: 1. Beef Bourguignon: A classic French stew made with tender chunks of beef, simmered in red wine and flavored with bacon, onions, and aromatic vegetables.
2. Escargots de Bourgogne: A popular dish in the Burgundy region. These snails are typically served in a rich garlic and herb butter sauce.
3. Coq au Vin: Another classic French dish that originated in Burgundy. This slow-cooked chicken dish is made with red wine, mushrooms, garlic, and bacon.
4. Jambon Persillé: A traditional ham and parsley terrine that is commonly served as an appetizer or starter in Burgundy.
5. Charolais Beef: One of the most popular types of beef in the Burgundy region. This meat is known for being tender, flavorful, and highly prized by local chefs.
6. Pain d'épices: A type of French gingerbread that is made with honey, cinnamon, and other spices. This bread is often served as a dessert or with cheese.
7. Kir: A popular French cocktail made with white wine and Crème de Cassis (blackcurrant liqueur). This drink is named after a former mayor of Dijon in Burgundy, Felix Kir.
Overall, Burgundy cuisine relies heavily on seasonal, fresh ingredients and flavors that reflect the region's rich agricultural and viticultural heritage.
You can find general info about typical foods in France here.

Is Autun an expensive destination for tourists?

Autun, France can be considered a moderately expensive destination for tourists. The cost of food, accommodations, and activities can be higher than some other locations in the region.
However, the cost of your trip will depend on your travel style and preferences. There are affordable accommodations and dining options available, as well as free or low-cost activities to enjoy.
It is always recommended to plan ahead, research your options, and create a budget that works for you to make the most of your trip to Autun, France.

Where to find accomodation in Autun

The best areas to find accommodation in Autun are typically near the historic city center, such as around the Place du Champ de Mars or the Rue Aux Raz. Additionally, there are some great options near the Porte d'Arroux, which is a major landmark in Autun. Ultimately, it depends on your preferences and budget, but staying near the city center will typically provide the most convenient access to Autun's main attractions.
You can check hotel prices at Autun here:
Booking.com

Is Autun a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Autun, France is generally a safe place for tourists. Like any other place, travelers need to exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially when wandering alone at night. However, violent crimes or serious incidents against tourists are rare.
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing or theft, can occur in tourist areas, so it is recommended to take precautions like keeping your belongings close to you and avoiding displaying valuable items such as expensive jewelry or electronics. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid walking alone in quieter areas, especially after sunset.
Overall, by taking basic safety measures, visitors to Autun should have a safe and enjoyable time.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in France here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Autun.

What type of travelers will enjoy Autun the most?

Autun, located in the Burgundy region of France, offers something for everyone. It is a perfect destination for history enthusiasts, art lovers, nature lovers, and those who love to explore new places. Couples will enjoy the romantic atmosphere of Autun, walking hand in hand in the historic town center, exploring the Romanesque architecture, and indulging in the regional cuisine.
Young people looking for fun will enjoy the vibrant nightlife, with various bars and clubs, especially during the summer season.
Families can enjoy the outdoor activities, like hiking and cycling, as well as exploring the museums, such as the Musee Rolin and the Ecomusee du Creusot-Montceau.
Overall, Autun is a great destination for all types of travelers, as it has something for everyone.

How to get around Autun

The easiest way to move around Autun is by walking, as many of the major attractions are located within the town center and are easily accessible by foot. You can also rent a bike to explore the town and its surroundings. The local bus service, called TADAO, operates in Autun and can take you around different parts of the town. Taxis are also available for hire if you need to travel to a specific location outside of the town center.

What to see around Autun

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Autun: 1. Beaune - Known for its wine, this picturesque town has a lovely medieval center and beautiful vineyards to explore.
2. Dijon - The capital of Burgundy is renowned for its architecture, mustard, and wine. You can tour the historic city center and sample some of the region's famous culinary delights.
3. Cluny - This historic town is home to one of the largest medieval abbeys in Europe, the Cluny Abbey. Visitors can explore the ruins and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
4. Chateau de Cormatin - This beautiful 17th century castle is located in the charming village of Cormatin. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle and its gardens or enjoy a picnic on the grounds.
5. Chateau de Sully - Another stunning castle located in the charming village of Sully, visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the castle and its lovely gardens.
6. Bibracte - This ancient Gaulish settlement was one of the most important in the region during Roman times. Visitors can learn about the history of the area through guided tours and interactive exhibits.
7. La Roche de Solutre - A must-visit for geology enthusiasts, this limestone spur offers stunning views over the surrounding landscape and is a site of great archeological importance.
I hope this helps!
For every travel information about France you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel and this page was partly created with the help of AI: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.