Start your tour at Square Plaza
The Place du Square is a convenient starting point. Located in the heart of the city, it is home to shops, outdoor cafes, tree-lined areas, and entertainment. On market days or during cultural events, it becomes one of the liveliest areas in Aurillac.
Take a few minutes to admire the facades surrounding it and the architecture of City Hall. You can then easily make your way to the shopping streets or continue on to the historic district of Saint-Géraud.
Take a stroll through the streets of Old Aurillac
As you walk toward the old town, the scenery gradually changes. The streets grow narrower, revealing facades made of volcanic stone, half-timbered houses, unobtrusive passageways, and a few mullioned windows.
The old town developed around the abbey founded around the year 900 by Count Géraud. The circular shape of the original town center is still evident in the layout of today’s streets.
Don't just look for the major landmarks. Part of Aurillac's charm lies in its little details: an old door, a small courtyard, a handcrafted sign, or an unexpected view between two buildings.
Discover the square and the Abbey Church of Saint-Géraud
Place Saint-Géraud is a must-see heritage site on the tour. It features several artifacts from the city’s medieval past.
The Abbey Church of Saint-Géraud serves as a reminder of the importance of the former Benedictine monastery. Among those who frequented the monastery was Gerbert of Aurillac, who later became Sylvester II and is considered the first French pope. The current building combines various architectural styles due to its successive reconstructions.
Across from the church, take a look at the former abbey hospital, recognizable by its Romanesque arcades, as well as the green serpentine basin. A little further on, the Consular House bears witness to the political and commercial organization of the ancient city.
Walk along the banks of the Jordanne River
After exploring the historic streets, treat yourself to a break by the water. The Jordanne River flows through Aurillac and offers a pleasant walk right next to downtown.
From its banks, certain vantage points offer a view of the old ramparts and the Abbey Church of Saint-Géraud. It’s also a great place to take a break, go for a walk with the kids, or simply get away from the hustle and bustle of the shopping district for a few moments.
Visit the Museum of Art and Archaeology
Located at 37 Rue des Carmes, in the Pierre-Mendès-France Cultural Center, the Museum of Art and Archaeology offers visitors a deeper understanding of the history of the Cantal department. Its collections include, among other things, archaeological artifacts, works of art, sculptures, and artifacts from various periods.
The entrance is through the Jardin des Carmes, a pleasant space that serves as a natural extension of the walk through downtown.
During the summer, the posted hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday through Friday; the facility is closed on Saturdays. Since hours are subject to change, it’s best to check them before you go.
Head up to Saint-Étienne Castle
To end the day with a panoramic view, head toward Château Saint-Étienne. The climb takes a little effort, but it offers a chanceto admire the rooftops of Aurillac and the surrounding hills.
The castle itself is currently not open to the public. However, its garden remains open and is a pleasant place to take a stroll. The keep is the site’s main medieval remnant, while the rest of the building was rebuilt in the 19th century following a fire.
Take a gourmet break and discover local crafts
Before leaving the town center, take the opportunity to explore the local shops and discover Cantal specialties. Cheeses, cured meats, jams, and Auvergne dishes let you extend your visit to the dinner table. Truffade is, of course, an option that’s hard to pass up—unless you’ve planned a strenuous hike right afterward.
Aurillac is also known for its expertise in umbrella-making. In the summer, colorful installations suspended above certain streets pay homage to this tradition and give the downtown area a particularly photogenic atmosphere.
What's the best route to explore Aurillac on foot?
For a smooth exploration, plan this route:
Place du Square → Old Town → Place Saint-Géraud → banks of the Jordanne → Rue des Carmes and Jardin des Carmes → Museum of Art and Archaeology → Château Saint-Étienne.
Plan on half a day for a leisurely stroll, or a full day if you include the museum, lunch, and several breaks.
To plan your trip, you can book a flight right now on our scheduled service between Aurillac Marie Marvingt and Paris-Orly.
See also:
Staying in Aurillac? Here are the top 5 must-do activities
Aurillac: 3 Hikes You Won't Want to Miss
7 must-see experiences near Aurillac
Aurillac: 5 festivals to experience the Cantal region in a different way
Aurillac in Winter: Ski resorts accessible for snowy getaways