perouges france tourist information

Perouges travel guide

Visit Perouges (Auvergne Rhône-Alpes, France)

Pérouges is a medieval walled town on a small hill overlooking the Ain river valley, 30 kilometres north of Lyon in the Rhone Alps. It developed in the 14th-15th centuries based around the local wine and weaving industries.

Explore Perouges

France This Way review: Perouges is a ' most beautiful village of France ' and it really is one of the best of these. We have visited most of France's classified most beautiful villages and this is one of our favourites.

The historic village falls between its two medieval gates - the 'high gate' and the 'low gate'. This part of Perouges contains lots of interesting buildings, including a fortified church and the house of the Princes of Savoy (open to the public) with a recreation of a 13th century garden.

The attractive cobbled streets around the village (these are uneven so wear sensible shoes!) lead past lots of beautiful old stone houses - truly there is something interesting to discover around every corner, with a great deal remaining from its medieval heyday.

A tour of Perouges begins at the upper gate. This stone gateway is made of large stones and the wall is part of the church. The church is fortified as are many built at this time (the 15th century). The church was originally built before 1423 but during a siege of the village in 1468 the church was destroyed by the inhabitants of the village in order to repair and improve their remparts. They managed to withstand the attack and one year later started rebuilding the church which was completed in 1479.

The main street of Perouges is the 'Rue des Rondes' and this runs in a circle around the centre of the village. At one part there is a narrow strip, by the houses, which is higher than the rest and was reserved for the wealthy residents of the village. Below this is the lower part of the lane which would have been frequently covered in mud and rubbish and was for the poor people!

As you follow the Rue des Rondes you will pass the 33 meter deep well and the Maison du Sergent de Justice with its round tower.

The lower gate was largely destroyed by the 1468 siege and now bears a witty inscription telling how the Dauphiné scoundrels couldn't take the town but made off with the doors, hinges and locks - "let the devil take them"!

The Place du Tilleul is the centre of Pérouges, with its 200 year old tree of liberty planted soon after the French revolution. Around the square you can see some beautiful buildings, it's a great place to sit and have a beer and watch the world go by. As well as the fabulous buildings look out for the sundial and also take a look in the Saint-Georges church at the wooden Saint George on the altar.

There is also a small museum to commemorate the weaving industry that was once so important in the village.

The Rue des Princes leading into the square was the main merchant street and the houses have wide bay windows where the merchants would display their goods.

The authenticity of the village has led to various historical films being made there - most notable perhaps being The Three Musketeers in 1973 (with Michael York).

Attractions nearby

After visiting Pérouges you can explore the Dombes region of lakes and birds to the north of Perouges. Be sure to also allow time to visit Lyon , one of the largest and most interesting cities in France at 30 kilometres south-west of Perouges.

You can find more travel ideas in the Ain guide and the Rhone-Alpes guide .

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Map of perouges and places nearby, visit near perouges with france this way reviews.

The Dombes, with thousands of small lakes, is perfect for fishing and bird-watching

With some of the most extensive medieval ramparts in France, Cremieu also has an interesting historic centre

Lyon Presqu'ile

The Presqu'ile region of Lyon is characterised by 19th century architecture and upmarket shops

Lyon has all the impressive buildings and monuments, museums, shops and restaurants that you would expect from one of the most important towns in France.

Lyon Old Town

In Vieux Lyon there are numerous impressive townhouses of the 16th century, a cathedral, and picturesque paved streets to explore

The quiet town of Trevoux in Ain has several historical monuments paying testament to its past importance

... or see ALL recommended places to visit in Ain

Tourist classifications for Perouges

Perouges is classified as a one of the most beautiful village in France (plus beau villages)

Address: Pérouges, Meximieux, Bourg-en-Bresse, Rhone-Alpes, 1800, France || GPS coordinates: latitude 45.903, longitude 5.1781

Plan your visit to Perouges, Ain

Sightseeing & tourist attractions to visit nearby.

• Saint-Vulbas: ville fleurie 4* (12 km)
• Cremieu : recommended detour (21 km)
• Grand parc de Miribel-Jonage: site of natural beauty (21 km)
• Laboratoire d’écologie des hydrosystèmes naturels et anthropisés: site of natural beauty (28 km)
• Parc de la Tête d'Or: remarkable garden (29 km)
• Jardin zoologique de la ville de Lyon: zoo or wildlife park (29 km)
• Chatillon-sur-Chalaronne: recommended detour (30 km)
• Lyon : secteur sauvegarde (30 km)
• Eglise Saint-Jean-Baptiste (Lyon): religious monument (31 km)
• Parc de Gerland: remarkable garden (31 km)
• Historic Lyon : heritage site (31 km)
• Trevoux : recommended detour (31 km)

The French version of this page is at Perouges (Francais)

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Tourism, holidays & weekends guide in the Ain

Overlooking the Dombes Plateau from the top of its hill, the medieval town of Pérouges, listed among the most beautiful villages of France, boasts an exceptional built heritage, a reminder of a rich past linked to hemp growing and weaving. This superb fortified village, incredibly well-preserved from the ravages of time, is a real enchantment for lovers of old buildings, and has been a set for several films, such as "The Three Musketeers" and "Monsieur Vincent".

Once you pass through the gates of En Haut, you'll be amazed to discover its cobbled side streets lined with old facades, and its 15th-century church resembling a fortress. Here, medieval timber-framed houses with corbels and Renaissance residences dotted with mullioned windows will take you on a journey through time!

The wonderfully picturesque Place du Tilleul square at the heart of the village is enchanting to look at, with its 13th-century inn, Old St. George House, Tree of Liberty planted in 1792, and Museum of Old Pérouges. The latter, based in the House of Princes, the former home of the Dukes of Savoy, tells visitors all about the town's history, through collections of paintings, engravings, furniture, objects, tools, ceramics and musical instruments. A Hortulus, a charming medieval garden, as well as a beautiful view of Pérouges and the surrounding area from the watchtower, complete the visit.

Local food to try: Pérouges cake, a local speciality made of brioche pastry with sugar and butter, which you can enjoy warm, on its own or with cream and fruit coulis, all accompanied by a glass of Cerdon wine or a hot drink! A real treat...

Every year, the village hosts two big events, the Printemps de Pérouges music festival in May-June, and the big medieval festival in June.

Additional information Pérouges

Located south east of Dombes , one of the four countries of Ain, 40 km from Lyon , the city of Pérouges dominates part of the plain of Ain, from the top of the plateau.

The former 12th century fortress was transformed into a city at the end of the 14th century thanks to a franchise charter. Pérouges amazes with its rounded shape, pebble and brick walls and untouched charm.

You will be won over by this stroll through the flavors of time!

Things to see and do

• The medieval city: do not miss the fortress church almost unique in France, the Porte d'En-Haut, the last vestige of the 12th century castle and the Place de la Halle in the heart of the city.
• The Museum of Old Pérouges: you will discover in this former castellan house various elements relating to daily life in Savoyard Bresse . Kitchen objects, documents, 19th century tools, weapons, weaver's workshop, medieval garden and panoramic view from the watchtower. A small museum version cabinet of curiosities with undeniable charm! Open from Easter to November 11.
• On the town: marked walking paths will allow you to change your point of view on the city and discover the nature of Pérouges. Trails between 40 minutes and 2h30. Departure from the medieval city.

Leisure activities

Places of interest, events and festivities.

• Venetian Parade: the 1st weekend of April.
• Pérouges Spring Music Festival: concerts in June/July.
• Family visit "the lady of Pérouges": from April to October according to the agenda.
• Guided tour "Let the story of Pérouges tell you": from April to October according to schedule.
• Medieval Festival: 2nd weekend in June (outside town events on Saturday).
• Summer market: one Sunday at the end of July.
• Theatrical nocturnal guided tours: according to programming (in summer and at the end of October).
• Heritage Days: the 3rd weekend of September.
• Christmas market: the 2nd weekend of December.

Visits, leisure and activities nearby

• Circuits of the Dombes lakes road (to be done by bike or by car).
• Investigation in game kit over one day (teenagers/adults) in Meximieux and Pérouges (5 minutes from Pérouges - start of the game in the medieval town).
• Nature discovery trail in Versailleux (15 minutes from Pérouges).
• The bird park in Villars-les-Dombes (20 minutes from Pérouges).
• Audio tour of the village of Saint-Sorlin-en-Bugey with the free Izi application. Travel, to download (20 min from Pérouges).
• Sound visit in the form of a quest in Vaux-en-Bugey with the free Izi application. Travel, to download (20 min from Pérouges).
• ViaRhôna, cycle greenway between Lyon and Geneva (20 km from Pérouges).
• Ambronay Abbey (25 minutes from Pérouges).
• The Balme caves in northern Isère (25 minutes from Pérouges).
• The Briska farm (educational farm with entertainment for children) (30 minutes from Pérouges - Chavanoz ).
• The medieval town of Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne (30 minutes from Pérouges).
• The Bonnet Silk Museum in Jujurieux (30 minutes from Pérouges).
• The blue valley and its fun and aquatic activities (30 minutes from Pérouges in Montalieu).
• The basilica of Ars and its wax museum (35 minutes from Pérouges).
• The historic city of Trévoux (35 minutes from Pérouges).
• The medieval town of Crémieu in northern Isère (35 minutes from Pérouges).
• The heritage museum of Hières-sur-Amby and the archaeological site of Larina (35 minutes from Pérouges).
• Aquatic activities with the Nauticlub at the green point ( Serrières de Briord 40 minutes from Pérouges).
• The Château des Allymes, a 14th century military fortress (40 minutes from Pérouges).
• The royal monastery of Brou in Bourg-en-Bresse (40 minutes from Pérouges).
• The caves of Cerdon (45 minutes from Pérouges).
• Canyoning or aquatic hike accompanied by a guide in Chaley (45 minutes from Pérouges).
• Via ferrata Tenay /Hostiaz (45 minutes from Pérouges).

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My Itchy Travel Feet

The Baby Boomer's Guide To Travel

Exploring the French Medieval Village of Perouges

This article may contain referral links. Read our DISCLOSURE

Simply put, France is a stunning country. Exploring its profound history, diverse cuisine and incredible landscape makes for the perfect baby boomer travel adventure.

Of course, for anyone planning a trip through France , exploring the picturesque countryside and off-the-beaten-path villages is a must. And we’ve introduced you to plenty of French finds.

But we believe the best travel moments are the unplanned ones. Guest writer Jan Ross, from Wanderlust Wonder , tells us how pure and simple serendipity led to her exploring the little-known medieval village of Perouges. Viking River Cruises provided this experience.

Exploring Perouges, France on an unexpected cruise itinerary change

Visiting Perouges was actually an unexpected surprise on our recent trip to France. My husband and I were on a cruise of southern France with Viking River Cruises .

Because the Rhone was overfilled with the run-off from melted snow in the Alps, our beautiful Viking Delling longship had to berth in Lyon.  We were then bussed to locations we would have normally cruised to.

Perouges is not usually on this itinerary but, because we had been so inconvenienced by not having the cruise experience we had planned, along with going out of their way to make sure we enjoyed the experience we were having instead, Viking added a visit to this medieval walled city. We were delighted with the addition.

Perouges is a tiny village northeast of Lyon which is perched on a small hill overlooking the plain of the Ain River. Considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, it has quite a lovely view of the surrounding area.

Probably founded in the early 1100’s by a Gallic colony, the town has always been inhabited by craftsmen, mainly farmers, linen weavers, and wine makers. Perouges officially became French in 1601.

The textile industry boomed until the early 19 th century when roads and railroads were re-routed. This bypassed the town resulting in a population drop from well over 1,000 to 90.

In the early 1900’s, the town was restored to its medieval appearance, houses and other residences were saved, and Perouges became a popular tourist destination. Because of this authentic, medieval appearance, it’s often used in movie sets for historical epics like The Three Musketeers .

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A guided walking tour in Perouges

We had already been to several French towns by the time we made it to Perouges, but from the moment we saw the entrance gate, we knew this place was totally unique.

After strolling through the upper gate, Porte d’en Haut , our group walked along the cobblestone lanes to see centuries old, medieval homes lining the narrow way.

The guide pointed out the difference between the homes that had been built and owned by linen merchants and those of wine makers. The wine making homes all had lower levels to store wine and were easy to pick out.

We were surprised when a door to an ancient and charming home opened, allowing us a quick peek inside to see modern furnishings, complete with a large, flat-screen television!

The homeowner also explained the sealed up windows and doors on many of the homes—ghosts were expected to leave via those exits, then they were sealed up so they couldn’t return!

Although Perouges only has about 100 inhabitants, there are numerous artisans with shops as well as several restaurants and hotels in the town and surrounding areas. From handmade paper to a fresh bakery, you can purchase several items to take home.

Guided tours of Perouges are a good idea to help you understand the history of the area.

After our tour, we ended up in the large, central square, La Place de la Halle , where there are several small shops and restaurants with the requisite open-air dining so popular in France. Situated close by,  Hostellerie du Vieux Perouges , one of the oldest inns in France, looked like a wonderful place to stay when visiting.

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A delicious Perouge surprise: Galette Perugienne

We were tired after navigating the narrow, cobblestone streets so our group divided, each finding shady, comfortable seating at one of the restaurants where we all ordered cool drinks. Mia, our Viking River Cruises program director, brought us all a very special treat.

Galette Perugienne a la Crème (literally, “pancake of Perouges) looks like a simple cheese pizza until you inspect closer to realize that’s not cheese but butter, sugar, and lemon. It was the perfect, delicious, and unique snack to end our visit to this fascinating village in France.

Disclosure: Jan’s trip was provided by Viking River Cruises.

How to visit Perouges if you’re not on a cruise excursion

Perouge is an easy day trip by train or car from Lyon. It’s a 20-minute walk from the train station to the historic city center so wear comfortable walking shoes .

If possible, avoid summer when the cobblestone streets are crowded with tourists.  Booking a private tour from Lyon is another option.

Geneva, Switzerland, is only a 90-minute drive away. So consider including Perouges as a one or two-night stop on a road trip through the Rhone-Alpes region. Be sure to read our tips for planning a European road trip !

If you enjoyed this look at medieval Perouges, click through to read about a weekend in charming Avignon or an off-season Provence road trip .

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Visit medieval Pérouges – one of France’s official “Most Beautiful Villages”

Once you get to Lyon, the gravitational pull of that great city can make you want to settle in for a while – but let me encourage you to save a day for the 40-minute drive out of town to Pérouges.  This medieval gem may already be familiar to you from movies you’ve seen, but it’s worth exploring on its own as one of France’s official “most beautiful villages.”

Sleeping in the Duke’s Bedroom

I’ll admit that the timing for our first trip to Pérouges  18 years ago was not the most sensible: we went in February.  The temperature had dropped to around -100 C (14 F), and our breath hung in clouds of ice crystals as we wrestled our suitcases into the hotel room.  Our tour of the little town was perfunctory – after 20 minutes we were so cold we had to take refuge inside for hot tea and cocoa.

The trip was still memorable, though, because we had booked our stay through the Hostellerie de Pérouges – a collection of fine hotel rooms s cattered through four of the town’s medieval building.  Our 9-year-old son was with us at the time, so we booked the Duke’s Bedroom, a warm and inviting chambre with rustic wood beams and a great canopied bed for the grown-ups.  It made a great base for dashes out to the car, across the square to the Hostellerie’s restaurant, or an occasional foray back into the streets for 10 minutes more of sight-seeing.

The Hostellerie still the best way to enjoy a weekend in Pérouges.  The hotel’s main building is a house constructed for a rich 15 th -century merchant; since 1912, it’s passed through four generations of the same family and welcomed guests as famous as Pierre Cardin and U.S. President Bill Clinton.  And it’s a great place to enjoy examples of the best cuisine of this part of France – on the coldest night of our visit, we had the Bresse chicken accompanied by gratin dauphinois and counted ourselves warm and well-fed next to a crackling fire.

Return to Pérouges

Earlier this year, though, Karen and I went back to Pérouges, this time on a hot summer’s day, and although heat radiated everywhere from the cobblestoned streets we had a chance to discover all the sights that make this a “Most Beautiful Village of France.”  Here are the main things to check out during your visit:

The Upper Gate

People have lived in this area for thousands of years, but the first documented mentions of Pérouges come from the 12 th century C.E.  It was a fortress town from the very beginning, perched on a hill and providing refuge from marauding troops in the region.  (It didn’t become part of the kingdom of France until 1601.) That function became even more important in the 14 th and 15 th centuries, when the whole city was surrounded by walls, of which the Upper Gate is the last remaining vestige.

The Fortress Church

Built around 1440 C.E. (the era of Joan of Arc), it has all the obvious necessities for a church, but you’ll start to notice some surprising “enhancements”:  thick walls and narrow slitted windows, structures obviously built for defense.  The people of Pérouges took refuge here when the town was under attack.

  The Street of Princes (Rue des Princes) The House of Princes (Masion des Princes) The Tower of Guet (Tour de Guet)

The Rue des Princes is the town’s medieval highlight.  Here you can imagine how people lived and worked in the 1400s.  Family apartments are built on the floors above shop fronts with counters that fold out into the street.  The Maison des Princes itself was home to the town’s feudal lords (the Dukes of Savoie); today, it’s an interesting brocanterie of a museum dedicated to the history of Pérouges.  (While we were there they had a fine temporary exposition of Chagall paintings.)  And through the Maison, you can climb up into the Tower of Guet for a fine view of the surrounding countryside in every direction; on a clear day, they say, you can see Mont Blanc in the Alps off to the east of Lyon.

The Place des Tilleuls (Lime Tree Square)

This is the historic center of town – the market square and gathering place for more than six centuries.  It’s here you’ll find the main office of the Hostellerie de Pérouges and its restaurant, as well as a bar/snack place and several fine medieval houses.  But the highlight – the feature that gives the square its name – is a fine lime tree planted (according to local lore) just before the French Revolution in the late 1700s.

A remarkable restoration story

Pérouges is not the only medieval town in France preserved in such a perfect state – think of other "most beautiful villages" like Sarlat in the Dordogne , Charroux in the Auvergne , or Collonges-la-Rouge in the département of Corrèze .  But those other places mostly got the impulse to save and restore their ancient architecture through the loi Malraux , a law promulgated in 1962 at the urging of Culture Ministre Andre Malraux.  That project created “sectors to be saved” in areas that were losing ground to urban blight in the 1950s and 1960s, and the law provided money and tax incentives to support the work.

For Pérouges, though, the urgency – and the vision of a restored city – came much earlier.  When railroads came to this corner of France in the 19 th -century, they were routed around Pérouges; cut off from transportation, its textile industry fell apart and the town’s population dropped from 1,500 to around 90 in 1911.  (The town’s own website says that by the end of the 19 th century “only one family was living in the medieval city.”)

A core group of “old families of Pérouges” banded together in 1912 and created the Comité de Défense et de Conservation du Vieux Pérouges , dedicated to preserving the town’s history and architecture.  They got help from the mayor of Lyon for their project; they took over the old Maison des Princes and turned it into an eclectic museum full of furniture, tools, textiles, documents, and other curiosities salvaged from family collections to show how life used to be in the village.  They established the Hostellerie to provide accommodations for tourists, and they laid the groundwork for a different kind of future.

Pérouges – star of the silver screen

The efforts of the Comité de Défense paid off, early and often.  Long before the loi Malraux , Pérouges became known as a place in the deep heart of France where you could see an authentic medieval town, with the whole ensemble of the village’s buildings preserved as they might have looked in the 1500s.  It was, in fact, a perfect place to set a movie, and directors and their crews started coming here as early as 1921, when Henri Diamant-Berger filmed his version of The Three Musketeers in the streets of Pérouges.

Other filmmakers came, too  – two more versions of The Three Musketeers incorporated scenes from Pérouges over the decades that followed, and other historical adventures found appropriate settings in the town’s ancient cobblestoned streets.  With an explosion in tourism and the distinction of being named one of the official “Most Beautiful Villages” in France, the town’s population came back, too, growing to 1,206 in the most recent census.

It is in fact a beautiful, interesting village and a great base for a holiday stay.  From here, it’s an easy drive into Lyon, but you could also go north and find yourself within minutes in the Beaujolais wine region.  Those who prefer something less frenetic can enjoy the rustic ambiance of the Hostellerie’s rooms and its fine restaurant.  But whichever option you enjoy, you can take a moment to step back into another time and place in the medieval streets of Pérouges.

Do you have a favorite among the “most beautiful villages of France”?  Or a place you think should be added to the list?  Please share your experience in the comments section below – and take a second to share this post with someone else who loves traveling in France.  Thanks for reading!

4 thoughts on “ Visit medieval Pérouges – one of France’s official “Most Beautiful Villages” ”

Belles photos de Perouges que j’ai visité il y a bien longtemps quand j’habitais à Lyon, ma ville natale. J’ai eu grand plaisir à revoir ce village grâce à vos photos et commentaires. Un grand merci. Elisabeth

Merci, Elisabeth – avec nos meilleurs vœux pour ce nouvel an !

Another really interesting post. I particularly appreciate your atmospheric photos here, Richard. Bonne annee!

And happy New Year to you, too — thanks for your kind comment!

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Pérouges: The Prettiest Medieval City in France

By: Author Guest Contributor

Perched high on a hill with the French Alps draped as a fairy tale backdrop, the medieval village of Pérouges persists. A timeless town. A perfectly preserved gothic treasure. It’s like walking through the pages of a story from the Middle Ages when chivalrous knights and fair maidens ruled the day.

Even today it remains an iconic enclave hiding behind massive fortress walls built of impenetrable stone. Uneven cobblestone streets wind through the narrow alleys, streets, and byways. Today, the town of Pérouges is not only one of the most beautiful, but also one of the best preserved in France.

Pérouges, France

I came to Pérouges by way of an optional tour while onboard Viking’s “France’s Finest” river cruise, a 15-day ultimate journey through France from Paris to Normandy and Burgundy to Provence. However, there are other ways to discover this ancient city. Only 25 miles north east of Lyon , it’s an easy day excursion by train or auto. A friend pointed out to me that the town is easily accessible from Geneva , Switzerland as it’s only a 90- minute drive.

Once there, you can only enter the village through two different entrances, doors that are called “Porte d’en Bas” (bottom door) and “Porte d’en Haut ”  (upper door). Once through either of these ancient gates, you are magically transported to a time where medieval architecture and towering walls enclosed half-timbered facades and paths built of rounded pebbles and stone.

Both entrances bring you to the village’s main square – La Place de la Halle. The main square is also the site of a majestic linden tree planted during the French Revolution. The year was 1792. Defiant to the ravages of time, the audacious arbor still stands prominently. Because of this, the plaza is also known as the liberty tree – La Place du Tilleul. Within this same square lies the Hostellerie du Vieux Perouges, one of the oldest inns in France.

  It’s all about the doors

  As you traverse the cobbly streets, be sure to notice the difference in windows and houses. Our guide explains that the homes of linen merchants and wine makers were noticeably different in medieval times. It all had to do with functionality since wine-maker’s homes needed lower levels to facilitate storage. Linen-makers wanted natural light streaming through their windows to assist with their delicate weaving so windows were placed higher to catch the sun’s rays.

Also, the low door entrances inside the homes, many no taller than 5 feet, look as if built for petite people. This again is a functionality of time in that during the Middle Ages, most people were shorter than they are today owing to nutritionally-challenged diets, disease, and periodic episodes of starvation.

Look around and you will also notice many of the homes have what appears to be old windows and doors that have been sealed over. It’s as if they couldn’t make up their mind whether or not they wanted a window or door. This time the answer lies in the superstitions of the time: departed spirits and ghosts were expected to leave from those exits. They were then sealed so that return access was denied to the unwanted specters.

Stuck in time

With about 100 inhabitants who call the double-walled village home, Pérouges has several restaurants, gift stores and craft artisan shops, wineries, as well as places to stay that cater to the visitor. From handmade paper and fresh bakery items to wine tastings at Caveau de Saint Vincent, there’s plenty to keep you engaged. However, be forewarned come nightfall as our guide cautioned about the lack of night life within the walls.

Though stuck in time, the location of photogenic Pérouges has easily been recognized through the years as a set for authentic period films such as: “The Three Musketeers” (1961), “Monsieur Vincent” (1947) and “The Advocate” (1993).

  Medieval past

While the past may be a bit muddled, it is thought the town was originally founded in the early 1100’s by a Gallic colony returning from Perugia, Italy resulting in the French name of “Pérouges.” By the late 14 th and 15 th centuries, the town was transformed into an autonomous city and primarily inhabited by craftsmen, primarily wine-makers, linen weavers, and farmers. In 1601, the town officially became French, ushering in a period of prosperity for the local craftsmen and merchants on the road between Lyon and Geneva.

By the end of the 18 th century, there were nearly 1,500 residents in town and the specialty was now hemp weave. Unfortunately, the booming textile industry came to an abrupt halt by the early 19 th century when railroads and roads bypassed the town, resulting in a precipitous population drop to just 90 people.

  Road to Preservation

The industrial revolution had taken its toll on Pérouges in the early 1900’s, with most inhabitants having left to find jobs in textile factories close to the train. Only one family lived in the once flourishing medieval town.

In 1909, the town was sadly slated for demolition. Stalled only by a courageous mayor and eventually preserved by the French government, the town of Pérouges was eventually restored to its medieval glory.

Today, you can still stroll the streets and easily feel transported back in time. Plan on spending the day and tasting Galette de Pérouges at one of the restaurants – a local specialty best described as a warm sugar pizza. And be sure to wear sturdy shoes to negotiate the uneven cobbled streets.

 Written by and photos by Guest Contributor Karin Leperi. 

As an award-winning writer and photographer, Karin embraces the natural world but also savors the spirit of people and place. Her specialties range from aviation, culture, cuisine, and cruising to luxury, lifestyle, photography, nature, and wildlife. For more of Leperi’s photography, visit www.travelprism.com

Remember to book some fun activities and tours for your trip to France in advance!

bill marsano

Saturday 29th of October 2016

Nice work. Congratulations!

Julie H. Ferguson

I haven't been here, but it is now on my list. Thanks for the tip!

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Perouges, the medieval village they almost razed

Published 22 May 2023 by Leyla Alyanak

This is the story of Perouges – a stunning medieval village which came close to being destroyed

Walk the streets of the medieval village of Perouges and if it’s early in the morning, before visitors arrive, you might actually think you’ve slipped back a few centuries.

Barely 100 years ago, no one could have predicted the stunning revival story of a village whose end had come.

After centuries of commercial growth, the village began to decay (for reasons we’ll read about below). 

Houses were sold to builders who dismantled them to use the stone in construction elsewhere, or to recover the occasional stairway or chimney. Businesses had shuttered, and walls crumbled, threatening the occasional pedestrian. Houses were demolished faster than they could be counted and the village was well on its way to being razed.

Horrified at the prospect of destruction, in 1911 a group of concerned citizens – including Edouard Herriot, then mayor of Lyon – decided to save the village and formed an association.

Each member was asked to buy a house in Perouges and to rebuild it.

And so, house by house, the village was reborn. Modern conveniences were added, and curious tourists began dropping by what was fast becoming a medieval village – again.

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Things to do in Perouges, France

Visit the village’s artisans, sample a “galette de perouges”, look closely at the houses, go to church, visit the museum of arts and popular traditions, explore the place du tilleul, take part in the medieval festival perouges, a bit of perouges history, where to eat in perouges, where to stay: hotels in perouges, france, perouges map, how to get to perouges from lyon, a few final thoughts about medieval perouges.

Today, Perouges is on the list of the most beautiful villages in France, and receives some 360,000 visitors a day. It looks and feels as it might have 500 years ago, and buildings still in disrepair are being rebuilt.

Search as you might, you won’t find an antenna or water counter anywhere. Given its status as a historical monument, all modern signs must be hidden. Several people have swimming pools, but you wouldn’t know it. And if you see small wooden trap doors on some façades, they are sure to be hiding a water or electricity counter.

Like most medieval villages, the enjoyment comes from strolling around the ancient streets. I live just over an hour from Perouges so it’s a great visit with friends, involving a pleasant drive, an exploration of the ramparts, and lunch al fresco. If you’re in either Lyon or Geneva and looking for the perfect day trip to a medieval town in France, Perouges is ideal.

Despite its restoration, it remains tiny, with 80 or so inhabitants (although 1300 are scattered outside the walls) and fewer than a dozen “main” streets. One such street circles the ramparts from the inside, the Rue des Rondes, while most other streets converge on the Place du Tilleul (lime tree).

It may be diminutive, but there’s plenty to do.

The streets are dotted with artisan’s shops, but these are discreet, with none of the glaring souvenir-pushing so evident in other touristic villages.

And there are few of them, under a dozen, with such specialties as ceramics, woodwork and painting.

This is a large round sugar pie, and several bakeries sell it in the village. It won’t be hard to find – just let your nose guide you.

The galette’s trademark is registered, so you won’t find it under that name anywhere else, but if you’re curious about local cuisine, the Tarte Bressane is not dissimilar, although it has a far thicker crust. 

The galette was created a century ago during the village’s renovation. After all, if one wanted to attract the riche Lyonnais for an afternoon, one had better feed them.

The architecture of the village is compelling, the refurbished stone houses rebuilt according to centuries-old traditions. But on your list of what to do in Perouges should be to take a closer look.

The lower floors with large windows were the weavers’ workshops, with sunlight streaming in. Come sunset, no work was allowed. Without light, candles would have been needed, a lethal combination for interiors made of wood and filled with cloth.

Upstairs were living quarters, with the entire family sleeping in a single bed, as was common then. The downstairs windows were protected by unusual shutters. While most shutters in France are vertical, these were horizontal, folding down into a table when opened, a great place for artisans to show off their wares.

Saint Marie Madeleine de Pérouges isn’t used for services anymore, but you can still attend weddings (and funerals) here.

Today, its rather somber decor is less than attractive but if you peer around the back of one of the columns on the left, you’ll catch a glimpse of what the colorful church might have been in medieval times. It is believed the church ceiling might have once been blue, studded with little stars…

What is unusual is its architecture. Its left wall is built right into the ramparts, and its stained glass windows are tall and thin, more military in shape than religious. The belfry is barely a century old, the French Revolution having destroyed most belfries in France.

The museum is a tiny showcase, reached from the top of a creaky set of wooden stairs. Its several rooms contain an eclectic collection of items from Perouges’ past: a loom once used by local weavers, chimneys and cooking utensils, old photographs, and even a small suit of armor.

From the top floor, gaze out onto the main square for a bird’s eye view of the village’s comings and goings.

As I searched fruitlessly for the exit, I eventually found out you leave the way you came in. You’ve been warned.

This is where the action is!

On any given day in Perouges, things happen when groups decide to use the picturesque site as a backdrop to their activities. Today, those events are innocuous gatherings of World War II vehicles or certain breeds of dog.

Back then, this was the site of executions, and attendance was compulsory as of the age of seven.

A VIOLENT TIME

Punishment was swift for transgressions in the Perouges of the Middle Ages.

There are documented cases of fines – for making faces at the duke or committing adultery – but these were relatively minor offences. For major crimes requiring the death penalty, an executioner was brought in from the local capital, Bourg-en-Bresse. The population would be alerted by the baker, who placed a loaf of bread upside down to announce the arrival. To this day in France, you’ll see people surreptitiously turn their bread right side up if it happens to have been wrongly positioned on their table.

Once the executioner’s job was done, he would receive a new pair of gloves and be allowed to sell the criminal’s possessions and keep the money.

Try to imagine what the square might have looked like back when it housed the local market square. The café of the Hostellerie de Perouges was a thriving exchange for local weavers, while foodstuffs were sold inside the “halles”, the covered market which burned down in 1839, and never rebuilt.

On the other side of the square from the Hostellerie, there’s a tiny statue embedded in a building: just raise your eyes and you’ll see St Georges (the French spelling for St George), one of the many saints watching over the village. In this case, there’s a dragon involved, and a slaying, and a knight in shining armor.

In fact, St Georges, the dragon slayer, had a particular significance for women: when they were ready for a partner, they would parade on the square on his day, usually 23 April.

Another notable was St Martin, whose feast is celebrated on 11 November – the 4th-century saint was of Hungarian origin who eventually became bishop of Tours. It’s a holiday still celebrated in many parts of France, mostly near the German border, but not only. My own village not too far from  Annecy  has a major fair each year on this day.

In the middle of the square stands a lime tree, weathered by the years and propped up by large wooden beams. It is one of France’s few remaining Freedom Trees, planted to celebrate the French Revolution and its new republic. Many were felled when the Bourbon dynasty was restored, replanted when the monarchy was ousted, and so on, dependent on the whims of politics. Few of these trees are left, although more are occasionally planted. You can find their symbol on France’s €1 and €2 coins.

If you’re partial to medieval re-creations and jousts, early June is the time to visit the 

“cité de pérouges”, as it is known in French. For more information get in touch with the village’s tourist office .

WHAT'S IN A NAME?

The origin of the name Perouges is cloaked in history. Some documents suggest it could come from "pierres rouges", a stone used for sacrifices, hence the "rouge", or red, drenched in blood. Others believe the name comes from the Italian city of Perugia, and that the town was founded by Gauls returning from Perugia. We simply don't know.

The village of Perouges was first mentioned by name around 1100-1200, so its history plunges back centuries. It started life as a fortress and dungeon, surrounded by ramparts.

Throughout the Renaissance, the village flourished, an important textile center filled with weavers, mostly of hemp. It was also located strategically on the road from Lyon to Geneva, a resting place for those making the week-long journey and at the heart of dynastic battles between the houses of Dauphiné and Savoy.

Those battles would eventually end when Perouges became part of France in 1601 but the village’s fortunes wouldn’t dwindle until the 18th century, when Louis XV built a new road through Meximieux, below Perouges. Traffic began bypassing the village, inconveniently located uphill.

More “bad” news followed. The invention of huge jacquard looms by the silk weavers of Croix-Rousse in Lyon made business in Perouges increasingly difficult. The new looms were too large for the town’s workshops, and many weavers had to close up shop. Like the road, the new train line bypassed Perouges, stopping just down the hill in Meximieux. Reasons to visit Perouges began to decrease, and soon people were leaving.

At its height, it had a population of 1000 or so. By 1900, no more than 10 or 20 people remained. There was talk of razing the village, and that might well have happened without the foresight of those concerned citizens who banded together to save it.

In Perouges food is not hard to find. There are several restaurants, and you can’t really miss them, the village is that small. However, a word of warning: they fill up very quickly so either show up early, or drop by after 11am but before noon to reserve a table. Some have outside terraces, a pleasant experience on a warm, sunny day.

Most restaurants are similar in price (a little expensive) but each has its own specialty menu. Walk around and choose what appeals. For faster food, there’s a pizzeria across from the tourist office and another in town, several places you can buy crêpes (French pancakes), and bakeries for bread or the famed Galette de Pérouges.

Like many medieval villages that are full of tourists by day, by night they are nearly empty, and a delight for strollers. So if you can, spend the night!

There aren’t many Perouges hotels but the selection of Perouges accommodation is more than adequate. There are few places to stay, but there is little competition, especially outside weekends.

I say Lyon because Perouges is a perfect day trip from Lyon, which is where most visitors come from. Perouges is also not too far from Geneva, and perfectly doable on a day trip.

There are basically four ways to visit Perouges medieval village:

• You can take the Lyon-Perouges train . It runs frequently but leaves you in Meximieux, at the bottom of the hill, so you'll have to walk up.
• You can drive – Lyon to Perouges is half an hour, or an hour-and-a-half from Geneva.  Perouges parking is relatively plentiful if you get there early, but you still have to walk uphill (though less than with the train). Make sure you reserve your rental car if you haven't done so yet.
• Take the Lyon-Perouges bus − it's very infrequent, takes twice as long as the train, and you’ll still have to walk up the hill.
• Take a day trip from Lyon that has already been organized, like this  private guided tour  or this small group tour combining Perouges and the Beaujolais – Perouges is small and you do have time to do something else on the same day.

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Perouges may be quaint and its streets filled with rounded cobblestones, but beware: they are extremely difficult to walk on, and near impossible in a wheelchair, with a cane or with a stroller.

There’s a reason for this. The original cobblestones were flat on top (more navigable) but were ripped up to lay cables and pipes for electricity and water. When time came to repave, it seemed easier (and not unattractive) to leave the pebbles whole. Tourists occasionally “took” a pebble home with them, undermining the streets. So the stones were cemented. As a result, the cobblestones cannot subside, and will forever remain lumpy and bumpy. Wear good shoes.

That said, the village is not completely inaccessible. By making arrangements through the tourist offices, permission can be granted to drive into the village to drop someone off for a few hours of leisure on the Place du Tilleul.

As I mentioned, there are a few automobiles in the village for residents. Visitors do glance at them sideways but unfairly, since people do have to shop and bring their groceries home, even if they live in a picturesque historical monument. I remember living in Yvoire, a beautiful medieval village on the shores of Lake Geneva, and getting nasty looks from visitors as I tried to maneuver into my tiny gated parking space. If you’re headed that way, I’ve included Yvoire in a Lake Geneva itinerary if you happen to be in Geneva.

Given the physical beauty of the village and its history, it’s not surprising that cinema crews regularly use it for filming, perhaps not quite on the scale of the film “Chocolat” in Flavigny-sur-Ozerain  in Burgundy, but for period shows like the Three Musketeers. As you walk along the streets, you’ll understand the draw.

A final word: In case you’re wondering… P é rouges is spelled with an accent over the first “e”. But as is the case when writing for an English audience, accents are often removed to make it easier for Google to find the story and show it to you. So yes, there IS an accent on the first “e” in P é rouges, and yes, I’ve left it out on purpose…

Did you enjoy this article? I'd love if you shared it!

Bonjour! I’m Leyla! I was born in Paris and now live in the bucolic mountain foothills of Eastern France between Lyon and Annecy. 

I'm rediscovering my own back yard after years of living abroad in Canada, Spain and Switzerland as a journalist and a diplomat － and I'm loving every minute.

Passionate about history and culture, I’ve created Offbeat France to seek out my country’s mysteries and legends, less-traveled destinations, along with plenty of food stops and many castles － I am French, after all!

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Top Things to Do in Perouges, France - Perouges Must-See Attractions

Things to do in perouges, explore popular experiences, tours in and around perouges.

Beaujolais & Pérouges Wine & Food Tasting Private Day Tour from Lyon

Beaujolais & Perouges Medieval Town (9:00 am to 5:15 pm - Small Group Tour Lyon

Private Tour to Royal Monastery of Brou and Pérouges

Pérouges Medieval Village Private Trip with Tasting from Lyon

Pérouges & Annecy Private Day Trip with Food Tasting from Lyon

Secret Food Tours Lyon w/ Private Tour Option

Guided tour and wine tasting Northern Rhône Valley

Northern Rhône Valley Day Tour with Wine Tasting from Lyon

Beaujolais Wine Tasting Day Tour from Lyon

Lyon Highlights & Secrets Walking Guided Tour (small group) including Funicular

Wine tastings.

Top Attractions in Perouges

Other Top Attractions around Perouges

Tours & Sightseeing

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What travellers are saying.

• 1 Understand
• 3 Get around

Pérouges is in Rhône-Alpes .

Understand [ edit ]

Pérouges is a preserved medieval village, built on a hill and surrounded by ramparts. It contains many stone buildings bordering narrow, stone-paved streets.

Get in [ edit ]

The village is located 35 km north-east of Lyon and is easily accessible by the A42 motorway or by train from Lyon (30 min). The railway station (Gare de Meximieux Pérouges) is 1¼ km from Pérouges. The town of Meximieux is between Pérouges and the railway station and makes an easy side-trip for those coming by rail.

Get around [ edit ]

The village is for pedestrians only. Cars should park in a parking lot at the foot of the hill.

See [ edit ]

• The Tree of Liberty ( arbre de la Liberté ) planted in 1792, during the French Revolution.
• A fortified church.
• Watch tower.
• Artists and artisans.
• Very quaint Shops.

Do [ edit ]

Walk around the narrow, medieval streets.

Buy [ edit ]

• Local crafts
• Baked goods

Eat [ edit ]

• The Hostellerie du Vieux Pérouges is one of the oldest inns in France. Its specialty is the galette of Pérouges. Waitresses are in local costume.

Sleep [ edit ]

• Ostellerie du Vieux Pérouges: 28 rooms 3 and 4 stars, located among 4 houses within the village.

Go next [ edit ]

The neighbouring town of Meximieux has 3 streets you may wish to walk:

• Rue de Lyon: attractive street with shops, restaurants and a hotel/restaurant (Le Lion d'Or).
• Rue de Genève: attractive street with more shops.
• Rue de l'Église: a quaint, narrow street that leads to a small public square with a church.

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Cité médiévale de Pérouges

Top ways to experience Cité médiévale de Pérouges and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Cité médiévale de Pérouges - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

3 Best Things to Do in Perouges France

In this article:

My Favorite Tourist Attractions in Perouges France

The medieval Fortress contains  almost all attractions in Perouges.

• Walk to the main village square and enjoy the sights, sounds and smells
• Walk through the rest of the small and narrow streets.  Take your time and walk slowly.  The village is very small and you can visit  it in about three hours.
• Have some wine and cheese at the Caveau De Saint Vincent
• Walk along the outside fortress walls and take in the views of the old buildings and the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside

1. Walk Through the Medieval Village

Walking from the parking lot through the green grass and small wooden staircase coming up to the old wall and tower of the old city fortress is just a delightful way to start your visit.

The imposing tower from the entrance makes you go back to medieval times when knights and fair maidens were walking through these walls and narrow streets. Inside the village walls, I found beautiful stone buildings built all together in one long and circular wall. Flowers and grape vines were around all the windows and doors, giving Perouges a fairy-tale look.

Making my way slowly towards the main square I stopped at one of the small “ galette ” bakeries that sell the traditional pizza-like sweet crust . It was crunchy and sweet and would have worked very well with coffee.

As the main square opened up before me I stopped in order to take in the sights and smells that were coming from the few small restaurants. You can easily see why walking around the old fortress comes first on my list of things to do in Perouges.

2. Taste Local Wine & Meats

3. Enjoy the Gorgeous Countryside Views

Last but not least on my list of favorite things to do in Perouges come the beautiful countryside views surrounding the medieval Fortress. Once I completed my slow tour of all the streets and alleys and took lots of travel photos I worked my way outside of the old fortress walls .

Plan Your Trip to Perouges France

Search my list of hotels in the Rhone-Alpes area of France . If you are headed to Perouges, consider staying at The Resid for Calixte right in Perouges.

Driving directions to Perouges France. Perouges is about 1.5 hours driving distance from Geneva, Switzerland and about 30 minutes drive from Lyon, France. I drove from Geneva, and the road is beautiful, going through the Jura mountains.

Find a great deal on a rental car in France . Being a small place, Perouges is best reached by car. Save up to 30% by comparing all major rental car companies and picking the best deal for you.

Find a private tour of Perouges . If you are in Lyon, you can easily find a day tour of Perouges.

Is it Worth Visiting Perouges France?

Perouges was such a great place to visit! It is a delight for your tourist eyes especially if you are looking for medieval villages. The stone buildings all inside a medieval wall give Perouges a definite “old” charm and the place immediately transports you into a different time in history. Now that you have a good idea about the best things to do in Perouges, you can plan your trip there next time you visit Geneva or Lyon.

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Is Perouges France Worth Visiting?

Having lived in Lyon for many years, I am very familiar with places to visit in the surrounding area. Perouges is an easy day trip from Lyon and is worth a visit if you are staying in the Rhône area of France.

The charming village of Perouges France is worth visiting as it is one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France .  Perouges France is a place where time stands still. This sleepy medieval walled village will transport you back in history and its tranquil setting makes for a memorable experience.

This article will give you a feel for Perouges France. It includes a video guide to Perouges France and suggests things to see and do to help you plan your visit.

What to Do in Perouges France?

To discover the charm of Perouges, you will probably only need to spend 1-2 hours here.  However, if you stop to have lunch, you could easily spend half a day soaking up the timeless atmosphere of Perouges, exploring its cobbled streets and visiting its small museums.

Here are some ideas of what to do in Perouges followed by a useful list of what to see in Perouges.

1. Visit the Tourist Office of Perouges France

The first thing you should do on your arrival in Perouges is to visit the Tourist Office.  This is located directly opposite the entrance to Perouges which is via the Rue de la Porte d’en Haut .

Although Perouges is a small village, the Tourist Office can provide you with a map of the village and some information about its history.

2. Wander and Explore Perouges France

Perouges is an enchanting and well-preserved medieval village, so one of the best things to do in Perouges is to take time to roam the cobbled streets and enjoy its peaceful atmosphere.

The village is full of picturesque half-timbered and stone buildings covered with hanging vines and displays of brightly coloured flowers.  Fortunately, the buildings of Perouges were restored in the early 1900s.  This is because the village fell into decline owing to the construction of new roads and railroads which bypassed the once flourishing village.

To explore Perouges, you could follow the Rue des Rondes which is a circular route around the village or explore the quaint side streets at your leisure.  Make sure you wear comfortable shoes to help you navigate the cobblestones!

Perouges France Video Guide

3. Browse the Artisan Craft Shops

Despite being a relatively popular tourist spot, Perouges is completely unspoilt.  It still has a timeless feel as there are no tacky souvenir shops.  Instead, the historic buildings are home to a handful of artisan craft shops which complement the village’s history of craftmanship. 

If you want to support the local community, take time to browse the small shops.  Perhaps you will find an interesting souvenir to remind you of your visit to Perouges!

4. Enjoy Local Food in Perouges France

Given the small size of Perouges, there is a fairly limited choice of restaurants in the village.  The oldest and perhaps most well-known inn is the Hostellerie du Vieux Perouges .

In fact, the Hostellerie du Vieux Perouges is one of the oldest inns in France.  It is situated on the village’s main square called the Place du Tilleul.  The inn serves regional dishes and also offers comfortable accommodation.

What to Eat in Perouges France?

Whilst you are in Perouges, make sure you try some of the local specialities.  These include the Galette de Perouges or Galette Pérougienne which is a sweet flat cake.  There is a small shop selling these on the Rue des Rondes , so you can take them away to try.

Other local specialities include morel mushrooms, crayfish, lake and pond fish, Bresse poultry, Hypocras wine from the Middle Ages and the Bugey wines of today.

If you would prefer to take a guided tour of Perouges France, click on the banner below for more information.

What to See in Perouges France?

The medieval walled village of Perouges has a rural setting and offers great photo opportunities for visitors.  It is lovely to walk around this picturesque village and be immersed in its authentic medieval houses and narrow cobblestone streets.  Here are some of things you will see in Perouges:

1. La Porte d’en Haut, Perouges France (The Upper Gate)

The main entrance to Perouges is through the ancient stone gate called La Porte d’en Haut .  The ancient Upper Gate towers over your head at more than 15 m high and forms part of the fortified ramparts.  The tower was built in the 13 th century and is classed as a French Historical Monument.

Before you enter the Upper Gate, you will walk under the outer defence of the walled village, the Barbacane (barbican).

2. La Porte d’En Bas, Perouges France (The Lower Gate)

It is also possible to enter Perouges via the Porte d’en Bas (The Lower Gate).  This gate is also known as the Langlois’ Gate .

3. Église-Forteresse or Église Sainte Marie Madeleine, Perouges (Fortress Church or Church of Saint Mary Magdalene Church)

The Fortress Church in Perouges is a fortified Catholic church which dates back to the 15 th century.  The church is situated immediately to the left of the Upper Gate and is another French Historical Monument.

The church played an important role in defending access to the medieval village of Perouges.  It forms part of the village’s defensive walls and has narrow stained-glass windows and loopholes.

4. Rue des Princes, Perouges France

The Rue des Princes was once one of the main thoroughfares in the village.  The Maison des Princes (House of Princes) is found here and today houses the Musée du Vieux Perouges.

5. Place du Tilleul (Place de la Halle), Perouges France

The Place du Tilleul is the main square at the heart of Perouges.  Originally, the square was called Place de la Halle until its covered market burnt down in 1839. 

Today, the square is named after the Lime tree which has stood in the centre of the square since 1792.  The tree was planted during the French Revolution so is also known as the Liberty Tree.

The Place du Tilleul is extremely picturesque and is the location of many of the village’s restaurants and hotels including the Hostellerie du Vieux Perouges.

6. Musée du Vieux Perouges France (Museum of Old Perouges)

The Musée du Vieux Perouges is located on the Rue des Princes and has 3 parts:

La Maison des Princes, Perouges France (The House of Princes)

The House of Princes used to belong to the Dukes of Savoy and dates back to the 14 th and 15 th centuries.  This French Historical Monument has 4 exhibition rooms which display famous contemporary art.

La Tour de Guet, Perouges France (The Watch Tower)

The Watch Tower offers amazing panoramic views over the roof tiles of Perouges and beyond.  On a clear day, you can enjoy views over the Dombes plateau, the plain of the River Ain and even Mont Blanc!

Under the top of the tower, there is also an exhibition of a traditional weaver’s workshop with authentic equipment and tools.

L’Hortulus, Perouges France (The Hortulus Garden)

The Hortulus is an authentic reproduction of a medieval garden which is only accessible via the museum.  Its geometric form includes a love square, a medicinal square and a vegetable square.

Where to Park in Perouges France?

Hopefully, we have persuaded you to spend a few hours discovering beautiful Perouges!  When you visit, you will need to park before you reach Perouges as the medieval village is pedestrianised.  However, the car parks are clearly signposted, and it is relatively easy to park when you visit Perouges. 

We recently visited Perouges on our way to Lyon from Strasbourg.  As we approached the village, we managed to find a free parking space on the roadside as we turned off the D4.

However, the main parking area for visitors to Perouges is the Parking des Combes de la Cité de Perouges on the Route de la Cité.  The cost of this car park is 2 Euros and there is a short 10-minute walk uphill to Perouges.  If you are lucky, you may find a space in another car park which is closer.

Where is Perouges France?

Perouges is a small commune in the Ain department in eastern France.  This picturesque medieval walled village is situated on the edge of the Dombes plateau on a small hill overlooking the plain of the River Ain.

Perouges is easily accessible from nearby Lyon.  The village is located 36 km north east of the city which is approximately 30 minutes by car.  It is also possible to reach Perouges by public transport from Lyon (see below for further information).

How to Get to Perouges from Lyon

Perouges is easily accessible from Lyon by car or by public transport.

Perouges from Lyon By Car:

Travelling to Perouges by car is the easiest and most convenient way to enjoy this medieval village.  The village is situated off the A42 and is a 30-minute journey by car from the city of Lyon.  Parking is available just outside the medieval village as outlined above.

Perouges from Lyon By Train:

If you don’t have a car, you can still enjoy discovering Perouges during your stay in Lyon.  Trains run between Lyon Part-Dieu station and Meximieux-Perouges.  The journey time is also approximately 30 minutes by train.

However, Meximieux is a small town 1.5 km east of Perouges.  It takes about 20 minutes to walk from the station to the medieval village of Perouges.  It is worth knowing that some of the walk is uphill.

Perouges from Lyon By Bus:

Alternatively, you can visit Perouges from Lyon by bus.  You need to take bus line 132 which is the Lyon-Bourg en Bresse line. 

This bus line starts in central Lyon.  Stops in Lyon include Pont de la Guillotière, Cordeliers, Hôtel de Ville – Louis Pradel and Pont de Lattre.  The bus journey from Lyon to Perouges lasts about 1 hour 10 minutes.

The bus stop for Perouges is the Gendarmerie – Route de Perouges.  From the bus stop, it is a 17-minute walk uphill to the medieval village.

Others Article you may like:

• Lyon Walking Tour
• Is Lyon Worth It?
• Lyon Day Trip

Sarah de Winne

Sarah De Winne creates and edits content for the Off the Tourist Treadmill and Enjoy Retirement Life blogging websites and YouTube channels.  She has a professional background in education and is passionate about sharing quality and engaging information.  Sarah currently lives in the south-east of England in the UK.

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Things to Do in Perouges

464km (288 miles) SE of Paris; 35km (22 miles) NE of Lyon

Photogenic Pérouges sits on a hilltop throne northeast of Lyon. Ever since “The Three Musketeers” film put medieval Pérouges on the international map in 1961, this thousand-person village has attracted tourists and movie crews. Tourism has caused excessive prices in local restaurants so consider taking a picnic instead. You may also want to bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes; the cobblestone streets are slippery when it rains and from the train station, it is a 20-min. walk into central Pérouges.

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Home » Travel Guides » France » 15 Best Things to Do in Périgueux (France)

15 Best Things to Do in Périgueux (France)

On the right bank of the Isle River, Périgueux is a gorgeous city with not one but two historic centres: The Cité district is a cultured quarter of 19th century boulevards and is strewn with little hints left behind by its ancient Roman residents.

The best of these is the Vesunna Museum, where the ground floor of a Roman villa is revealed inside a modern glass building. Then you have the Renaissance and medieval Saint-Front quarter, set around the emblematic domed cathedral and laced with tight streets and alleys. The beloved Dordogne region is your backyard here, and waiting for river trips and days out at castles or outlandish cave networks.

Lets explore the best things to do in Périgueux :

1. Vesunna Gallo-Roman Museum

In  1959 while laying the foundations for apartment buildings workers dug up the vestiges of a resplendent Roman domus.

The extent of what has survived is amazing, and in 2003 the site was covered with a glass building created by the acclaimed architect Jean Nouvel.

You’ll traverse the ground floor of the domus with the help of raised walkways, looking down at painted plasterwork and mosaics and getting insights from information panels and LCD screens.

There are also display cases all around with pieces gathered at other local Roman sites, as well as others unearthed right here, including amphorae and plates.

2. Tour de Vésone

In the museum grounds are the ruins of a Roman temple to the goddess Vesunna that date to the turn of the 2nd century.

What remains is a circular tower almost 25 metres in height, with a nine-metre hole in its side.

At first glance the building might seem pretty nondescript, but apart from its great age the tower is also valuable for the way it merges Celtic architecture with a traditional Roman temple design.

The ruins are also steeped in local folklore, and the story goes that the tower’s large breach was caused by Périgueux’s patron Saint Front chasing demons out of the building.

3. Cathédrale Saint-Front

With a Greek cross floor-plan and Romanesque-Byzantine design, the 12th-century Saint-Front Cathedral doesn’t have many parallels in France but was modelled on St Mark’s Basilica in Venice.

It’s an astonishing building with big dimensions, and the five symmetrical domes and bell-tower that form its skyline are famous across the country.

The cathedral was almost destroyed during the French Wars of Religion in the 16th century, but was restored in a sympathetic way in the 1800s by Paul Abadie, the same man who worked on the Notre-Dame in Paris.

The perfect time to come is when the organ is playing or there’s a choral performance because the acoustics are out of this world.

4. Rue Limogeanne

Right in the middle of medieval Périgueux’s pedestrian zone, Rue Limogeanne is a long ravine-like street that you’ll find yourself on if you’re shopping.

Go slowly to appreciate the lovely stone-built Renaissance architecture that closes in from both sides.

Maison Lapeyre at no.1 and Maison Estignard at no.5 are beautiful examples.

For a curious detail check out the stonework next to the doorway at Maison Courtois at no.7, where the initials “AC” are etched.

This was made by Antoine Courtois, whose partridge paté won him great renown across Europe in the 1700s.

5. Tour Mataguerre

The Tour Mataguerre on Rue de la Bride was once joined to 27 other towers and 12 gates as part of a mighty defensive system that enclosed the medieval town.

The structure is from the 1200s and was updated  a little later when it was given its circular outline.

For a couple of hundred years up to 1831 the tower was a gunpowder magazine, and today you’re free to have a look inside where there’s a little display of medieval weapons.

Go up to the roof for a photogenic view of the town and cathedral, aided by an information board to tell you what you’re looking at.

6. Saint-Front Quarter

Périgueux’s medieval district is north and west of the cathedral and almost totally pedestrianised.

All you need is two feet and an inquisitive eye for a little journey through time.

The town has also put a lot of effort into rejuvenating its awesome Renaissance architecture, and there’s something worth stopping for at almost every street.

The 16th-century Hôtel de Mèredieu d’Ambois on Rue de la Nation is a private property but needs to be seen for its moulded windows and sculpted porch.

Place de la Clautre in front of the cathedral is the scene of a big market on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

7. Jardin des Arènes

If you weren’t already aware, the elliptical shape of this delightful garden will tell you a lot about what used to be here.

This is right where Périgueux’s former Roman amphitheatre once stood.

In amongst the spruces, chestnut trees, fountains and lawns are a few isolated pillars, walls and arches from the original structure, while the rest of the stone was plundered to build medieval Périgueux.

These evocative ruins blend beautifully with the garden, which complement the nearby Vesunna Gallo-Roman Museum neatly.

8. Voie Verte des Berges de l’Isle

Used by locals as much as tourists is a 15-kilometre greenway that crosses the Périgueux “agglo” from east to west.

For the full length of the route the path never leaves the banks of the River Isle and so promises restorative nature and unbeatable vistas of sights like the Saint-Front Cathedral.

How you do it is your choice as can hire a bike in the town and make your way on two wheels or ease along the parallel trail on foot.

This path puts you in touch with a whole network of trails all devised to let you discover the area without using your car.

9. Voie Bleue des Berges de l’Isle

A canoe trip on the smooth waters of the Isle is yet another way of seeing the best of Périgueux.

The “Blueway” is 24 kilometres of placid, child-friendly river, from Trelissac in the east to Marsac in the west.

Everything has been planned to make your little voyage as hassle-free as possible: There are 12 special launch points, as well as four canoe stations, with information, loos, drinking water and anything else a family of adventurers could need.

The canoe clubs in Périgueux, Telissac and Marsac can also set you up with paddle boards if you want to be trendy!

10. Cité District

The Vesunna Museum, Vésone tower and amphitheatre are in a neighbourhood known as the Cité, named after the Vésone Roman Citadel.

This Roman part of the town has a few other vestiges from Roman times, like the 2,000-year-old gate, Porte Normande at RueTurenne and  crumbling stone curtains frim the citadel’s ancient ramparts.

These ruins are interspersed with regal boulevards that were cleared during the rule of Napoleon III in the mid-1800s.

Boulevard de Vésone is one such thoroughfare, flanked by splendid stone townhouses with wrought iron balconies and mansard roofs.

11. Musée d’Art et d’Archéologie du Périgord

In a marvellous converted Augustinian convent you can indulge your curiosity about the ancient history and prehistory of Périgord as well as other regions of the world.

The museum is a bit of a miscellany of things from all sorts of times and places.

So there are ethnographic pieces from Oceania and Africa together with exquisite medieval art like an enamel statue of the Virgin Mary from the 1200s and stained glass windows recovered from a nearby 14th century church.

There’s also a Roman lapidary collection and Neanderthal fossils discovered in caves near the famous system at Lascaux.

12. Château Barrière

In a small park on Rue Turenne are the breathtaking ruins of a medieval castle that was founded on top of the Vésone Citadel’s Gallo-Roman wall.

Looking at the base on the west side of this building structure you can easily identify the larger stones that have ancient origins, but the entirety of this decaying building is magnificent.

The castle was completed in the 1100s and updated over time, but was torn down by the Huguenots in the French Wars of Religion in 1575. Late-medieval fittings like the mullioned windows, flamboyant gothic portal and renaissance stairway in great condition after almost half a millennium exposed to the elements.

13. Musée Militaire du Périgord

Along with the two other museums on this list, Périgueux’s Military Museum has earned the prestigious “Museum of France” label.

This attraction investigates more a 1,000 years of warfare in the region and covering the international conflicts that Périgord’s citizens fought in.

With some 12,000 weapons (cannon, muskets, daggers), armour, uniforms, flags and day-to-day equipment on show you’ll be wiser about Périgord’s role in history’s defining conflicts.

The marquee exhibit is a large canvas of the 1872 Battle of Solferino by the military painter Jean-Adolphe Beaucé but there’s a whole load of interesting memorabilia for a military enthusiast to get through.

14. Days Out

You won’t run out of things to see in Périgueux, but for a change of scenery there are some top-notch sights and attraction an easy drive from the town.

The Château de Puyguilhem is a quintessential French renaissance château, constructed in the 1500s with architecture as sublime as almost any you’ll find in the Loire Valley.

To go underground the Grotte de Tourtoirac can be reached in about half an hour on the D5: This cave system has only been on the map in the last couple of decades, having been discovered by cave-divers in 1995. The great thing about this is that the attraction has modern faculties like escalators, providing access for people with mobility issues.

15. Cuisine

The black truffle is unearthed all across the Périgord in autumn and winter and can fetch unbelievable prices.

But you’ll know what all the fuss is about when you taste some of the local delicacies with this treasured tuber.

Périgueux pâté has foie gras and black truffle and has been made in the town since at least the 1400s, while Périgueux sauce consists of roux, red white and chopped truffle and is divine with anything from omelettes to roasted duck or quail.

Walnuts in Périgord have an AOC  label and are produced in a huge quantities by the orchards around the city and are in season around late-summer.

15 Best Things to Do in Périgueux (France):

• Vesunna Gallo-Roman Museum
• Tour de Vésone
• Cathédrale Saint-Front
• Rue Limogeanne
• Tour Mataguerre
• Saint-Front Quarter
• Jardin des Arènes
• Voie Verte des Berges de l'Isle
• Voie Bleue des Berges de l'Isle
• Cité District
• Musée d'Art et d'Archéologie du Périgord
• Château Barrière
• Musée Militaire du Périgord