Two hours from Paris by train, Bourges lies in the very heart of France. Perched on the River Yèvre, this gorgeous historic city brims with cultural attractions, perfect for keen history buffs and Loire Valley explorers. Our selection of accommodation options includes intimate townhouses and opulent restored residences, well-suited to romantic couples or fun-loving families. To top things off, the best places to stay in Bourges are never far from the main sights, so you can discover the historic city centre on foot or bicycle with ease.

Close to the site of the Roman city of Avaricum, Bourges once boasted an enormous gate, aqueducts, thermal baths and an amphitheatre. You’ll find more about this ancient past at the Musée du Berry, or by strolling along the remnants of the 4th-century ramparts. Architectural highlights of the old city include the Gothic Cathedral of Saint Etienne, built between 1195 and 1270, as well as the Jacques Coeur Palace and the Hôtel Dieu. Don’t miss the Museum of Decorative Arts, housed in the Hôtel Lallemant, or the Natural History Museum. Relaxed strolls yield half-timbered houses, buzzy cafés and hip bars, ideal for relaxed summer evenings.

Foodies will adore the three weekly markets, whilst birdwatchers and outdoor enthusiasts will find the 135 hectares of fertile marshland (the Jardins des Marais de Bourges) fascinating. Go cycling, hiking, kayaking or horse riding in the area, and visit the Loire Valley’s many châteaux and wineries over the course of your trip. A busy year-round destination, the best places to stay in Bourges fill up particularly fast during the summer months. Book your holiday well in advance!

The Best Places to Stay in Bourges

For Couples

• Villa C is a chic, ten bedroom boutique hotel in the centre of town. An ideal romantic base for couples, the hotel has elegant interiors with large marble bathrooms and private terraces. Close to all the attractions. Intimate and couples-focused.

For Families or Groups

• Hotel de Panette is a beautifully restored residence close to the cathedral. Pick this place for the self-catering apartments, which are brilliant for families or groups of friends travelling together. Expect sumptuous interiors, a lovely garden for little ones, and bikes for hire.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, and catch the train from Paris to Bourges. The journey should take 2 hours.
• The Loire Valley is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• You can expect the warmest weather between June and September, with temperatures averaging at around 24°C. For a quieter trip and great hotel deals, come in the spring (April - May).

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Chenonceaux.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Loire Valley.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.