City Guide for: Avallon, France

Food & Cuisine

Avallon, nestled in the heart of Burgundy, is a culinary delight, deeply rooted in the region's rich, traditional French cuisine. Prepare for hearty and flavourful dishes like the iconic Boeuf Bourguignon, Coq au Vin, and an array of local cheeses, including the famously pungent Époisses. Escargots, often prepared with aromatic garlic and parsley butter, are a regional specialty you absolutely shouldn't miss. The town typically hosts weekly markets where you can find an abundance of fresh local produce, artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and regional wines directly from producers. While specific renowned restaurants might vary, seek out charming traditional auberges and local bistros that pride themselves on using seasonal ingredients and time-honored Burgundian recipes. Be sure to try a Kir, a classic aperitif made with local white wine and crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur).

Nightlife

Avallon's nightlife is, as one might expect for a tranquil medieval town, quite subdued and focused on relaxation rather than revelry. You won't find bustling nightclubs or dedicated late-night entertainment districts here. Evenings are typically spent enjoying a leisurely dinner at one of the town's welcoming restaurants, perhaps followed by a quiet drink at one of the few traditional local bars. The emphasis is on savoring good food and wine in a peaceful setting, making it perfect for those seeking a calm and authentic French evening experience rather than a vibrant party scene.

Best Time to Visit

The most enchanting times to visit Avallon are during the spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October). In spring, the surrounding countryside bursts into bloom, and the weather is pleasantly mild, creating ideal conditions for exploring the historic town on foot and venturing into the Morvan. Early autumn brings stunning fall foliage, particularly within the natural park, and coincides with the grape harvest season, adding a unique charm to the region, all under comfortable temperatures for sightseeing. While summer (July-August) is also popular, it can be hotter and attract more visitors, especially to the region's major attractions.

Transportation

Avallon is a relatively small town, and as such, public transportation options are quite limited. There are no tram or subway systems. Local bus services exist but are infrequent and primarily serve the immediate town area and very close surroundings. The Avallon train station (Gare d'Avallon) offers regional TER train connections, mainly to Laroche-Migennes, where you can then connect to major lines, including those to Paris. For comprehensive exploration of the Morvan Regional Natural Park and the wider Burgundy region, renting a car is by far the most practical and recommended option, offering much greater flexibility.

Airport

Avallon does not have its own international airport. The closest major international airports are Paris-Orly (ORY) and Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG), both located approximately 200-250 kilometers (125-155 miles) north of Avallon. From these airports, visitors typically take a train to a regional hub like Laroche-Migennes or Montbard (TGV trains from Paris Gare de Lyon to Montbard are faster) and then either connect by regional train to Avallon or, more conveniently, pick up a rental car. A rental car is highly recommended for the journey to Avallon and for exploring the picturesque Burgundy region and the Morvan Natural Park at your own pace.

Attractions

Day Trips