Autun is a fairytale town surrounded by ancient city walls. Stroll along narrow streets lined with half-timbered houses and visit Roman monuments, including one of the largest amphitheatres in the world. Venture into the Burgundy countryside to discover picturesque forests and visit a postcard-perfect chateau.
Things to do in Autun
Cathédrale St-Lazare towers over Autun and features a magnificent Romanesque façade. Stop to admire intricate, zodiac-inspired carvings as you pass through the main doorway and into the nave. They were carved in the 12th century by celebrated French sculptor, Gislebertus.
Théâtre Romain is carved into a grass-covered hillside and once held 20,000 spectators. The amphitheatre is one of the most important Roman monuments in France and dates to around 70 AD. Today, the multitiered stone seats are covered with emerald-green grass and colourful wildflowers.
Château de Sully is a popular day trip from Autun and boasts a picturesque setting in the Burgundy countryside. English-style gardens surround the Renaissance château, which features lavish rooms decorated with French art and antiques. Enjoy a picnic in the gardens or sample local wine and cheese at the café.
Climb Mont-Beuvray and enjoy sweeping views over the Morvan mountains and surrounding countryside. Other trails wind around the base of the peak and through Mont-Beuvray Forest, where you can see centuries-old beech trees covered with moss. Within the forest is Bibracte, an ancient Gallic settlement that fascinates archaeologists from around the world. Learn more about the settlement at the modern museum within the park.
Getting around Autun
Autun is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The town is in Burgundy, two hours from Lyon by car or train. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit Autun and explore Burgundy at your own pace. Charles de Gaulle Airport is a four-hour drive away.