· FR

Autun

Autun, Bourgogne-Franche-Comte, France

Autun, located in the picturesque region of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, France, is a charming and historically rich destination that offers a delightful mix of cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and natural beauty. T…

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Autun.

Top Hotels in Autun

Top Flights to Autun

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Autun.

Tours

Discover the Ancient Roman Theatre

Explore one of the largest and best-preserved Roman theatres in France, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history.

Stroll through the Autun Cathedral

Visit the stunning Cathedral of Saint Lazarus, an exquisite piece of Romanesque architecture.

Shopping

Shopping in Autun's Old Town

Browse unique boutiques and local markets in the charming streets of Autun's historic center.

Outdoor

Nature Escape in Morvan Regional Park

Experience the natural beauty of the Morvan Regional Park with trails, hiking, and outdoor activities.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Autun.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

Information not available.

Languages

French, French

Average weather

Autun

Jan

5°0°

Feb

7°0°

Mar

12°2°

Apr

15°5°

May

19°9°

Jun

23°12°

Jul

26°14°

Aug

25°14°

Sep

21°11°

Oct

15°7°

Nov

9°3°

Dec

6°1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Autun.

What people love

Autun, located in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, France, offers a unique and charming travel destination with several pros for visitors. Here are some detailed reasons why traveling to Autun can be a rewarding experience:

Historical Sites: Autun is known for its rich history dating back to Roman times. Visitors can explore well-preserved Roman ruins such as the ancient gates, the Roman theater, and the Temple of Janus. The Cathedral of Saint Lazare, with its impressive architecture and intricate sculptures, is also a must-visit for history buffs.
Scenic Beauty: Autun is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, vineyards, and lush forests. The town itself boasts charming medieval streets, squares, and gardens, providing plenty of opportunities for leisurely strolls and scenic views.
Culinary Delights: Bourgogne-Franche-Comté is renowned for its gastronomy, and Autun is no exception. Visitors can indulge in local specialties such as Burgundy wines, cheeses, charcuterie, and traditional dishes like Boeuf Bourguignon. The town also has a vibrant market where visitors can sample and purchase fresh produce.
Cultural Events: Autun hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, art exhibitions, and theater performances. These events provide a glimpse into the local arts and culture scene, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant community.
Outdoor Activities: The natural surroundings of Autun offer a wide range of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, horseback riding, and even hot air balloon rides to take in the stunning views of the countryside.

Overall, traveling to Autun provides a perfect blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and gastronomic delights, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a unique and enriching travel experience.

What to know

Autun, located in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, France, is a charming town with a rich history and beautiful architecture. However, like any destination, there are some potential drawbacks to consider when traveling there:

Limited public transportation: Autun is a relatively small town, and public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities. This could make it more challenging to get around if you don't have access to a car.
Language barrier: While many people in Autun may speak some English, the primary language spoken is French. If you don't speak French, you may encounter some communication challenges during your stay.
Limited nightlife: Autun is not known for its bustling nightlife scene. If you're looking for a lively party atmosphere, you may be disappointed by the more subdued evening entertainment options in town.
Seasonal considerations: Autun experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters and warm summers. Depending on your preferences, you may want to plan your visit during a specific time of year to ensure you can enjoy the activities and weather you prefer.
Limited tourist amenities: As a smaller town, Autun may not have as many tourist amenities and services as larger tourist destinations. This could mean fewer accommodation options, restaurants, and attractions to choose from.

Overall, while Autun offers a unique and historical experience for travelers, it's essential to consider these potential drawbacks when planning your trip.

Autun, located in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of France, is a town with a rich historical heritage dating back to Roman times. Here's a detailed look at its history, significant events, historical figures, and landmarks:

Ancient History

Foundation: Autun, originally known as Augustodunum, was founded during the reign of the Roman Emperor Augustus around 15 BC. It served as the capital of the Aedui, a Gallic tribe that had allied with Rome.
Significance: The city was designed to be a center of Roman culture and education in Gaul, featuring impressive public buildings, temples, and a theater.

Roman Period

Landmarks: Notable Roman structures that still exist include the Temple of Janus, the Roman Theater, and the remnants of the ancient city walls.
Siege of Autun (269 AD): Augustodunum was besieged and captured by a faction of the Gallic Empire, a breakaway part of the Roman Empire. The city was later reclaimed by the central Roman authorities.

Medieval Period

Christianization: Autun became an important center for Christianity in the region. The city was home to significant religious figures such as Saint Lazarus, the first bishop of Marseille, who is traditionally associated with the region.
Cathedral of Saint-Lazare: Constructed in the 12th century, this Romanesque cathedral is famous for its detailed sculptures, particularly the tympanum depicting the Last Judgment by Gislebertus.

Renaissance to Modern Era

French Revolution: The city, like much of France, experienced significant upheaval during the Revolution. Many religious and royal symbols were targeted.
19th Century: The arrival of the railway brought economic development, linking Autun more closely with the rest of France.

Historical Figures

Gislebertus: A master sculptor known for his work on the Cathedral of Saint-Lazare.
Talleyrand: Charles-Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord, a notable diplomat and statesman, was educated at the seminary in Autun.

Modern Landmarks

Rolin Museum: Named after Nicolas Rolin, a chancellor for the Duke of Burgundy, it houses a collection of art and artifacts from various periods of Autun's history.
Porte Saint-André and Porte d'Arroux: These are two well-preserved Roman gates that were part of the city's original fortifications.

Autun’s combination of ancient Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and modern museums makes it a significant site for understanding the historical layers of France.