MUST VISIT

Limoges, the capital of the Haute Vienne Department, offers many surprises. The half-timbered houses, its location on the river Vienne and the striking Gothic influences combine to create a unique atmosphere. Limoges is known for its beautiful 19th century covered market hall that remains in use today. The porcelain tiles in the market hall provide a hint to town’s past, and present, as a famous porcelain maker.

With 134,000 inhabitants, it’s just the right size for a lively, but not too busy atmosphere. Whether you are an architecture aficionado, a culinary enthusiast or you just like to wander around soaking in a typical French town, Limoges has it all!

The Central Halls of Limoges, the impressive market hall dating back to the 1800s, lies at the centre of town and has recently been completely restored. A promenade through its spacious interior is a walk through history and here you can buy all the regional specialities. It’s also a great spot to take a few photos inside and out with its steel arches, exposed stone and porcelain tiles.

Then shift a gear and take a stroll through the Quartier de la Boucherie, a distinctive and historic district populated with medieval buildings. It is wonderful to just potter about in this part of town with its antique shops, galleries, bookstores, cafes and restaurants. Here you will also find the Chapelle Saint-Aurélien; a small, richly decorated 15th-century chapel dedicated to the patron saint of butchers, that was acquired by the butchers' guild and maintained by them to this day.

Another must-visit within the town is the cathedral of Saint-Étienne, an imposing masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It took no less than 600 years to complete this dramatic structure. A further change of pace takes in a stroll through the botanical garden (Les Jardins de l'Evêché) along the banks of the river Vienne.

History at every turn

In the 18th century, fine clay was discovered in the region, which was then used to produce highly refined porcelain. This porcelain is of exceptional quality and is favoured around the world in luxury restaurants and hotels of distinction. The Adrien Dubouché National Museum is well worth a visit if you would like to learn a lot more about this specialist trade!
If you travel to the region by train you will certainly see the beautiful Limoges-Bénédictins station building. From here, you can reach Paris in just 3.5 hours by train. Even if arrived by other means, a visit to the station building is well worth a detour. It is one of the most beautiful station buildings in Europe, with a dome, sweeping arches and stained-glass decorations throughout.

Restaurant tip

La Table du Couvent is situated in a 12th-century Carmelite convent. The restaurant is one of the best known for Limousin beef. Steaks such as côte de bœuf, bavette and Limousin entrecote (dry - aged on site) are cooked on an open fire giving a delicious smoky taste. You can also follow cooking workshops at La Table du Couvent on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Make sure you check the options and schedule on the restaurant's website.