Discover Beauvais: History, Charm, and Travel Guide

• Country: France

Planning Your Trip to Beauvais

General Information: Beauvais Travel Essentials

• Country: France
• Timezone: GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time)
• Languages spoken: French
• Currency: Euro (€)

Beauvais Weather and Climate: Best Time to Visit

Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures, occasional rain. Average temperatures: 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Ideal for sightseeing with fewer crowds.

Summer (June-August): Warm and sunny. Average temperatures: 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Perfect for outdoor activities.

Autumn (September-November): Cooler temperatures, colorful foliage. Average temperatures: 7°C to 17°C (45°F to 63°F). A picturesque time to visit.

Winter (December-February): Cold and often wet. Average temperatures: 1°C to 7°C (34°F to 45°F). Snow is possible, offering a different perspective.

Beauvais City Overview: A Blend of History and Modernity

Beauvais, nestled in the Oise department of France, is a captivating city where historical grandeur meets contemporary charm. This city is best known for the Beauvais Cathedral, one of the tallest in the world, Beauvais is a must-see for architecture and history lovers. The easily navigated center reveals picturesque streets dotted with half-timbered houses and lively market squares.

Beyond the architecture, Beauvais boasts green parks and gardens, perfect for escaping city life. The friendly locals and relaxed atmosphere make for an inviting experience. Its strategic location makes it a perfect base for exploring Picardy. Rich in history, Beauvais has played important roles in historical events and conflicts of France.

Beauvais is full of diverse cultural experiences, from museums with local art and history to lively festivals. Whether you’re after architecture, historical insights, or a peaceful getaway, Beauvais promises an enriching and memorable experience. Consider booking a guided tour to maximize your experience (affiliate link to tour operator).

Best Time to Visit Beauvais: Seasonal Travel Guide

Seasonal pros and cons:

• Spring (April-May): Pleasant weather, fewer crowds. Chance of rain.
• Summer (June-August): Warmest weather, ideal for outdoor activities. Peak tourist season.
• Autumn (September-October): Beautiful foliage, mild temperatures. Some attractions may have reduced hours.
• Winter (November-March): Fewer tourists, lower prices. Coldest weather, some attractions may be closed. Consider visiting during the Christmas Market (affiliate link to event details).

How to Get to Beauvais: Transportation and Visa Information

Flights: Beauvais-Tillé Airport (BVA) is a budget-friendly airport serving many European destinations. Check flight deals and book your flight (affiliate link to flight booking website).

Trains: Beauvais has a train station with connections to Paris Gare du Nord. Travel time is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes. Book train tickets in advance (affiliate link to train booking website).

Visa details: Check visa requirements based on your nationality. France is part of the Schengen Area. Apply for your visa well in advance of your trip.

Airport transfers: Airport buses and taxis are available to reach the city center. Consider pre-booking your airport transfer for convenience (affiliate link to airport transfer service).

Beauvais: Historical and Cultural Insights

Fun/Historical Fact: The Unfinished Beauvais Cathedral

The Beauvais Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of Saint Peter of Beauvais, was intended to be the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. Despite the choir reaching unparalleled height, the nave was never completed, leading to structural challenges and collapses. This unfinished masterpiece is a testament to the ambition and limitations of medieval architecture. Learn more on a historical walking tour (affiliate link).

Famous Personalities from Beauvais

• Vincent Voiture: (1597-1648) Poet and writer.

Beauvais Attractions: Top Things to See and Do

Top 10 Attractions in Beauvais

1. Beauvais Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Beauvais): An unfinished Gothic masterpiece with the tallest choir in the world.
   • Address: Rue Saint-Pierre, 60000 Beauvais, France
2. Oise Departmental Museum (Musée Départemental de l’Oise): Housed in the former bishop’s palace, showcasing art and history of the region.
   • Address: 1 Rue du Musée, 60000 Beauvais, France
3. Saint Etienne Church (Église Saint-Étienne): A Romanesque and Gothic church known for its stained glass windows.
   • Address: Place Saint-Étienne, 60000 Beauvais, France
4. National Tapestry Gallery (Galerie Nationale de la Tapisserie): Featuring collections of tapestries.
   • Address: 22 Rue Saint-Pierre, 60000 Beauvais, France
5. Plan d’Eau du Canada: A beautiful lake and park offering walking trails and recreational activities.
   • Address: Allée du Canada, 60000 Beauvais, France
6. MUDO – Musée de l’Oise: Fine arts museum in a historic building.
   • Address: 1 Rue du Musée, 60000 Beauvais, France
7. Place Jeanne Hachette: The main square in Beauvais, named after a local heroine.
   • Address: Place Jeanne Hachette, 60000 Beauvais, France
8. Maladrerie Saint-Lazare: A historic leper colony turned cultural center.
   • Address: 203 Rue de Paris, 60000 Beauvais, France
9. Parc Marcel Dassault: A spacious park with playgrounds and green spaces.
   • Address: Rue Henri Brisson, 60000 Beauvais, France
10. Beauvais City Hall (Hôtel de Ville): Impressive architecture in the heart of the city.
    • Address: 1 Place de l’Hôtel de ville, 60000 Beauvais, France

Hidden Gems of Beauvais: Off the Beaten Path

• The Clock Museum (Musée de l’Horlogerie): A small museum showcasing antique clocks and watches, often overlooked by tourists.
  • Address: 5 Rue du Musée, 60000 Beauvais, France (Check opening hours beforehand)
• Secret Gardens of Beauvais: Explore the hidden courtyards and small gardens scattered throughout the old town. Discover unexpected green spaces and charming architectural details.
  • Address: Varies throughout the old town, explore side streets off Rue Saint-Pierre.

Local Festivals & Events in Beauvais

• Les Photaumnales: An annual photography festival held in the Oise region, often featuring exhibitions in Beauvais. Check dates and purchase tickets (affiliate link).
• Beauvais Plage: A summer event transforming a section of the city into a beach-like atmosphere with activities and entertainment.

Day Trips from Beauvais: Exploring the Region

• Compiègne: Explore the historic palace and gardens (30-minute drive).
• Chantilly: Visit the Château de Chantilly and its equestrian grounds (45-minute drive). Book tickets in advance (affiliate link).
• Amiens: Discover the Amiens Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1-hour drive).

Beauvais Photography Spots: Insta-Worthy Places

• Beauvais Cathedral: Capture the grandeur of the cathedral from different angles, especially during sunrise or sunset.
• Half-Timbered Houses: Explore the historic center and photograph the picturesque half-timbered houses.
• Plan d’Eau du Canada: Get stunning reflections of the surrounding landscape in the lake.

Beauvais Accommodation and Transportation

Recommended Stay Duration in Beauvais

2-3 days

Top Places to Stay in Beauvais

Budget Hotels in Beauvais

• B&B HOTEL Beauvais:
  • Address: Rue Pierre et Marie Curie, ZAC de Ther, 60000 Beauvais, France
• Premiere Classe Beauvais:
  • Address: Rue de Clermont ZAC de Ther, 60000 Beauvais, France
• ibis budget Beauvais Aeroport:
  • Address: Rue Pierre et Marie Curie Zac de Ther, 60000 Beauvais, France

Mid-Range Hotels in Beauvais

• Hotel Mercure Beauvais Centre Cathédrale:
  • Address: 1 Rue Jean Merket, 60000 Beauvais, France
• O Logis:
  • Address: 3 Rue de l’Abbé Pierre Caron, 60000 Beauvais, France
• Ibis Beauvais Aéroport:
  • Address: Rue du Pré Martinet, 60000 Beauvais, France

Luxury Hotels near Beauvais

Luxury options within Beauvais are limited. Consider staying in nearby cities like Chantilly or Compiègne for more upscale accommodations.

• Auberge du Jeu de Paume (Chantilly):
  • Address: 4 Rue du Connétable, 60500 Chantilly, France
• Hôtel Mercure Compiègne Sud (Compiègne):
  • Address: ZAC de Mercières Rue Ferdinand de Lesseps, 60200 Compiègne, France

Getting Around Beauvais: Transportation Options

• Public transport: Beauvais has a bus network (Corolis).
• Taxis: Taxis are available, especially near the train station and airport.
• Walking: The city center is compact and easily walkable.
• Bikes: Bike rentals may be available. Explore rental options (affiliate link).

Practical Information for Your Beauvais Trip

What to Pack for Beauvais

• Comfortable walking shoes.
• Layers of clothing for variable weather.
• Rain gear (especially during spring and autumn).
• Universal adapter for electronics.

Useful Travel Apps for Beauvais

• Google Maps: For navigation.
• Citymapper: For public transport (if available).
• Google Translate: For language assistance.

Local Safety Tips & Cultural Etiquette in Beauvais

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Learn a few basic French phrases (Bonjour, Merci, Au revoir).
• Dress respectfully when visiting religious sites.
• Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service.

Beauvais Food and Entertainment

Top Restaurants in Beauvais

• Le Comptoir des Halles: Traditional French cuisine in a cozy setting.
  • Address: 4 Place des Halles, 60000 Beauvais, France
• La Grange: Regional dishes with a modern twist.
  • Address: 7 Rue de l’École, 60000 Beauvais, France
• Restaurant Le Saint Pierre: Fine dining experience near the cathedral.
  • Address: 1 Rue Saint-Pierre, 60000 Beauvais, France

Must-Try Dishes in Beauvais

• Flamiche aux poireaux: A savory leek tart.
• Crème brûlée: A classic French dessert.
• Local cheeses from the Picardy region.

Nightlife & Entertainment in Beauvais

• Le QG: Popular bar with a lively atmosphere.
  • Address: 2 Rue Pierre Jacoby, 60000 Beauvais, France
• Le Bureau: Bar and restaurant.
  • Address: 15 Rue de Gesvres, 60000 Beauvais, France

Souvenirs and Markets in Beauvais

• Local products from the Picardy region at the market on Place des Halles (Saturday mornings).
  • Address: Place des Halles, 60000 Beauvais, France
• Cathedral-themed souvenirs from shops near Beauvais Cathedral.