Auxerre

Auxerre is a charming town in Burgundy, France, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delightful wine. Here’s a lovely 3-day itinerary for you and your partner to explore this beautiful area. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Discovering the Heart of Auxerre

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a cozy breakfast at a local café. Try a buttery croissant and a café au lait to fuel your adventures.
• Stroll through the Old Town: After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town. Don’t miss the stunning Saint-Germain Abbey with its beautiful Romanesque architecture.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Bistro: Enjoy a traditional French lunch at a bistro. Try some coq au vin or a fresh salad with local cheeses.
• Visit the Auxerre Cathedral: After lunch, head to the Saint-Étienne Cathedral. The stained glass windows are breathtaking, and the architecture is a perfect blend of Gothic and Romanesque styles.

Evening:

• Dinner by the Yonne River: For dinner, find a restaurant along the Yonne River. Enjoy a romantic meal with a view of the water. Pair your meal with a glass of Burgundy wine, of course!
• Evening Walk: After dinner, take a stroll along the riverbanks. The reflections of the lights on the water create a magical atmosphere.

Day 2: Wine and Culture

Morning:

• Breakfast at the Hotel or Local Bakery: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, perhaps with some fresh pastries from a local bakery.
• Wine Tasting Tour: Book a morning wine tasting tour in the nearby Chablis region. Explore vineyards and learn about the winemaking process while sampling some exquisite wines.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Chablis: After your wine tasting, have lunch in Chablis. Look for a restaurant that offers local specialties paired with their famous wines.
• Explore Chablis: Spend some time wandering around Chablis. Visit the Chablis Wine Museum to learn more about the region’s viticulture.

Evening:

• Return to Auxerre: Head back to Auxerre and freshen up.
• Dinner at a Michelin-Starred Restaurant: Treat yourselves to a special dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Auxerre. Savor a multi-course meal that showcases the best of Burgundy’s culinary delights.

Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a relaxed breakfast. Maybe try a tartine (bread with butter and jam) this time!
• Visit the Parc de l'Arbre Sec: Spend your morning in the Parc de l'Arbre Sec, a lovely park perfect for a romantic stroll. Enjoy the greenery and perhaps have a little picnic if the weather is nice.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Crêperie: Grab a casual lunch at a crêperie. Enjoy savory galettes and sweet crêpes for dessert.
• Explore the Abbey of Saint-Germain: After lunch, visit the Abbey of Saint-Germain if you haven’t already. The crypt is particularly fascinating and gives a glimpse into the town’s history.

Evening:

• Relax at a Wine Bar: Wind down your trip at a cozy wine bar. Sample a few more local wines and share your favorite moments from the trip.
• Farewell Dinner: For your last dinner, choose a restaurant that offers a cozy atmosphere. Reflect on your adventures over a delicious meal, perhaps with a dessert to share.

Tips:

• Transportation: Auxerre is quite walkable, but you might want to rent bikes for a fun way to explore the area.
• Reservations: Make reservations for the wine tasting and the Michelin-starred restaurant in advance to ensure you have a spot.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Auxerre! Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🍷✨