Overview
Auxerre is a historic city in the Yonne department of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté with an attractive medieval core and picturesque location on the Yonne River. In 2020 it was home to 34,000 people, making it a manageable size for backpackers.
Architecture · Budget Travel · Day Trips · History · Museums
Before you go
Accommodation
Budget hotels line the ring road (National Route 151/Boulevard Vauban) within walking distance of the old city. Camping Municipal d'Auxerre is open April 1st to October 15th, 2 km from centre.
Connectivity
5G coverage available from all French carriers as of June 2022. Check international roaming arrangements with your home provider.
Food
Local boulangeries, fromageries, and caves à vin offer authentic French products. Le Schaeffer serves affordable croque monsieur sandwiches. Leclerc supermarket at 14 Avenue Jean Jaurès covers self-catering needs.
Money
France uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for small shops, markets, and cafés. Wine purchases from local caves à vin offer good value in this major wine-producing region.
Safety
Auxerre is a quiet, manageable city with typical European urban safety. Standard precautions apply in crowded areas and at night.
Transport
Gare d'Auxerre-Saint-Gervais is the main train station with hourly trains to Dijon and Paris. The city is compact enough to explore on foot, with bike rental available at "la maison du vélo".