Beauvais
· FR

Beauvais

Beauvais, Hauts-de-France, France

Beauvais, located in the Hauts-de-France region of France, is a charming and historically rich destination that offers a delightful mix of cultural attractions and picturesque landscapes. One of the main attractions in B…

#Beauvais#Hauts-de-France#France#Historic city#Cathedral
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Beauvais.

Top Hotels in Beauvais

Top Flights to Beauvais

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Beauvais.

Tours

Beauvais Cathedral Exploration

Visit the stunning Beauvais Cathedral, known for its magnificent Gothic architecture and the tallest choir ever built.

Beauvais Old Town Walk

Stroll through the charming Old Town of Beauvais featuring historic buildings and quaint cafes.

Troissereux Castle Visit

Visit the picturesque Troissereux Castle and its elegant gardens, perfect for a relaxing day out.

Shopping

Beauvais Market Day

Explore the vibrant local market at Beauvais city center offering fresh produce, crafts, and more.

Outdoor

Lake Canada Adventure

Enjoy outdoor activities at Lake Canada including kayaking, fishing, and hiking around the scenic trails.

Location videos

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

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Beauvais.

Currency
€ | EUR | Euro
Population
56,000
Languages
French, French
Average weather
Beauvais
Jan
cold
6°1°
Feb
cold
7°1°
Mar
cloud
11°3°
Apr
rain
14°5°
May
cloud
18°9°
Jun
sun
21°12°
Jul
clear
24°14°
Aug
sun
24°14°
Sep
cloud
20°11°
Oct
rain
15°8°
Nov
cloud
10°4°
Dec
cold
7°2°

Local guide

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

What people love

Beauvais, located in the Hauts-de-France region of France, offers several pros for travelers:

  1. Cultural Heritage: Beauvais boasts a rich cultural heritage with its stunning Gothic cathedral, Saint Peter's Cathedral, which features beautiful architecture and impressive stained glass windows.

  2. Historic Charm: The town of Beauvais is filled with historic buildings, quaint streets, and picturesque squares that offer a glimpse into its medieval past.

  3. Local Cuisine: Travelers can enjoy delicious French cuisine in Beauvais, including regional specialties like Picardy rabbit stew, duck confit, and apple tart.

  4. Proximity to Paris: Beauvais is conveniently located just over an hour's drive from Paris, making it a great option for a day trip or a short getaway from the bustling city.

  5. Outdoor Activities: The surrounding countryside of Beauvais offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring the scenic Oise River.

Overall, Beauvais provides a charming and historic destination with cultural attractions, delicious food, and easy access to Paris, making it a worthwhile travel destination.

What to know

Traveling to Beauvais in Hauts-de-France, France, can be a charming experience, but there are some potential drawbacks to consider:

  1. Limited Attractions: Beauvais itself is not as well-known as other French cities for its tourist attractions. While it does boast the impressive Beauvais Cathedral and a few museums, the range of attractions is more limited compared to cities like Paris or Lyon.

  2. Transport Connectivity: Although Beauvais has an airport, it primarily serves budget airlines, which might mean fewer flight options and destinations compared to larger airports like Charles de Gaulle or Orly in Paris. Additionally, while there are train services to Paris, they might not be as frequent or fast as those from other cities closer to the capital.

  3. Language Barrier: Like many smaller French towns, English may not be as widely spoken as in larger cities. Visitors who do not speak French might find it more challenging to communicate, although this is gradually improving with more tourists visiting the area.

  4. Weather: Beauvais experiences a temperate climate with significant rainfall, even in its driest months. The weather can be unpredictable, which might affect travel plans, especially for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities.

  5. Limited Nightlife and Dining Options: Compared to larger cities, Beauvais offers fewer options for nightlife and dining. While there are certainly local restaurants and bars, the variety and international cuisine options might be limited.

  6. Crowds at the Airport: Beauvais-Tillé Airport can get quite crowded, especially with the influx of budget travelers. This can lead to longer wait times and a more hectic experience, particularly during peak travel seasons.

  7. Accommodation Choices: While there are hotels and other accommodations available, the range might not be as extensive or luxurious as in bigger cities. This could be a consideration for travelers looking for specific amenities or high-end lodging.

Overall, while Beauvais has its own unique charm and history, travelers should weigh these considerations based on their interests and travel preferences.

Beauvais, located in the Hauts-de-France region of northern France, is a city rich in history and cultural significance. Here is a detailed history of Beauvais, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History

  • Roman Era: Originally known as Caesaromagus, Beauvais was an important settlement in Roman times. It was the capital of the Belgic tribe of the Bellovaci.
  • Medieval Period: During the early Middle Ages, Beauvais became an important ecclesiastical center. The town was the seat of the Bishopric of Beauvais, established in the 4th century.

Significant Events

  • Hugh Capet's Coronation: In the late 10th century, Hugh Capet, who became the first King of the Franks, was crowned in nearby Noyon, and Beauvais played a role in the political landscape of the region.
  • Hundred Years' War: The city suffered during the Hundred Years' War, particularly during the siege by Charles the Bold, Duke of Burgundy, in 1472. The citizens, led by Jeanne Hachette, famously defended the city, and her bravery is celebrated annually on June 27th with the Fête Jeanne Hachette.
  • French Wars of Religion: Beauvais was involved in the religious conflicts that engulfed France in the late 16th century.

Landmarks

  • Beauvais Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Pierre): This Gothic cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in Beauvais. It boasts the highest Gothic choir in the world, at 48 meters. Construction began in the 13th century, but the cathedral was never completed as planned. The cathedral is also known for its astronomical clock and stained glass windows.
  • Bishop's Palace: Adjacent to the cathedral, this historical building now serves as the Musée de l'Oise, showcasing regional art and history.
  • Church of Saint-Étienne: Another important church in Beauvais, known for its Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
  • Galeries Lafayette Building: A fine example of early 20th-century commercial architecture.

Historical Figures

  • Jeanne Hachette: A legendary figure in Beauvais history, known for her role in defending the city against the Burgundian siege in 1472.
  • Jean Racine: The famous playwright was educated in Beauvais.

Modern History

  • World War I and II: Beauvais was affected by both World Wars, suffering damage, particularly during World War II. The city was liberated by Allied forces in 1944.
  • Post-war Reconstruction: Like many French cities, Beauvais underwent significant reconstruction and development in the post-war period.

Contemporary Beauvais

Today, Beauvais is a vibrant city known for its historical architecture, cultural events, and as a transportation hub due to the Beauvais-Tillé Airport, which serves as a gateway to Paris and the Picardy region.

This history provides an overview of Beauvais's rich past and its role in French history.