Top 5 things to do in Bourges

If you’re fascinated by history and architecture, Bourges is a city that will meet your expectations. Its rich heritage makes it a city that should be visited. You’ll find Gallo-Roman remains such as the ramparts, which can be seen near the town hall. Bourges’ reputation is also partly due to its magnificent Cathédrale Saint-Etienne. This architectural gem leaves no one indifferent. If Bourges doesn’t get the recognition it deserves, it’s simply because of its geographical position. Bourges is located in the Cher department, in the centre of France. So, unlike other towns, you don’t have access to the sea or a mountain range. But don’t worry, you’ll always find something to visit!

1- Discover the Palais Jacques Cœur

Category : Cultural

Description: A must-see in the city of Bourges, the Palais Jacques Cœur is a magnificent building dating back to the Middle Ages. Built in 1443, the palace belonged to a powerful merchant, adventurer and even treasurer to King Charles VII. The Palais Jacques Cœur is an architectural gem, making it one of the most sumptuous civil buildings in the flamboyant Gothic style. Each room in the palace is decorated differently. The Palais Jacques Cœur has been listed as a historic monument since 1840.

2- Discover a château less than an hour from Bourges

Category: Gastronomic / Cultural

Description: As mentioned earlier, Bourges and the surrounding area have a rich historical heritage. A number of buildings bear witness to the various periods in our country’s history, including the Château de Buranlure. Located just under an hour from Bourges, this medieval castle is authentic. Its architecture and decoration have remained virtually unchanged since 1769, when it came into the hands of the Vogüé family. Restorations were carried out after the Second World War, while ensuring that the spirit of the building was preserved. Now listed as a historic monument, a visit to the château is enhanced by a tasting of carefully selected wines.

3- Take a boat trip

Category : Unusual

Description: Bourges has a veritable green lung, just a stone’s throw from the town centre. With 135 hectares of cultivated gardens, you can spend some quality time in a relaxing setting. In the past, the marshes were a natural defence, protecting Bourges. It wasn’t until the 17th century that parcels of land were shared between private individuals to create small gardens. A number of canals run alongside the marshes, offering the chance to take a boat trip.

NB: this activity is only available from May to the end of August.

4- Admire Saint-Etienne Cathedral

Category : Cultural

Description: It goes without saying that Saint-Etienne’s Cathedral is THE monument not to be missed when you visit Bourges. There’s no excuse for missing out on this imposing UNESCO World Heritage site. Situated in the historic centre of Bourges, this cathedral, founded in 1230, demonstrates the importance of religion, particularly Christianity, in medieval France.

5- Have a good time at Printemps de Bourges

Category : Unusual / Cultural

Description: Let’s leave the medieval side of Bourges for a moment and move on to the cultural side. The Printemps de Bourges is a well-known music festival in France. Created in 1977, it now attracts over 90,000 visitors every year. It’s a five-day festival featuring no fewer than 80 artists of all genres. You can listen to everything from rock and R&B to electro and contemporary music. Among the famous artists who have performed here are Stromae, Aya Nakumura and the legendary French group Justice, with their spellbinding electro music.