Clermont-Ferrand is a lively university city filled with historic architecture, café-lined squares and bubbling fountains. There are excellent museums to visit, covering everything from the Nazi occupation to natural history. Clermont-Ferrand is also a gateway to the Chaîne des Puys mountains, where you can explore scenic hiking trails and climb extinct volcanoes.
Things to do in Clermont-Ferrand
Strolling around the cobbled streets of the old town, you’ll notice many houses and churches built from charcoal-coloured volcanic stone. Twin-towered Cathédrale Notre Dame is one of the most beautiful and features a dramatic Gothic façade decorated with stone gargoyles. Climb the staircase up Tour de la Bayette for sweeping views over the city and the surrounding countryside.
Musée d'Art Roger Quilliot occupies a former convent and showcases a stellar line-up of European art. The collection covers several centuries and includes 17th-century oil paintings, medieval carvings and religious relics.
Cafes, bars and brasseries line Place de Jaude, a bustling square in the heart of Clermont-Ferrand. Try dishes like “truffade” potato pancakes cooked in goose fat, melted “Raclette de Savoie” cheese and wine bottled at local vineyards. Enjoy an alfreso meal and admire the enormous Statue of Vercingétorix, designed by the same French sculptor who conceived the Statue of Liberty.
Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d'Auvergne is an easy day trip from Clermont-Ferrand, with the option of exploring the park independently or joining a guided tour. Hike to the 1,465-metre-high summit of Puy de Dome to unlock 360-degree views over the surrounding mountains.
Getting around Clermont-Ferrand
Clermont-Ferrand is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot, while trams and buses are an efficient way to explore the city. Public rental bikes are an eco-friendly option. Clermont-Ferrand is a two-hour drive from Lyon and 4.5 hours from Paris and Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport is a two-hour drive away.