The home of exquisite porcelain

Limoges is an attractive city in southwest France. Museums, parks and a wide sweeping river make Limoges a place of interest for many UK holidaymakers each year. Discover ancient buildings, streets and monuments and tour several sites of historical significance. See the 10th century Crypt of Saint Martial, wander around the ruins of the Gallo-Roman amphitheatre and climb the Gothic spiral of St Etienne’s Cathedral. Take a guided tour of the 17th century Château de La Borie and peruse the art work of the Musée Municipal de l'Eveche. The Oradour sur Glane is a small village located 25km (15 miles) from Limoges. Untouched since a massacre by German forces in 1944, it remains a memorial to their lives. Spend an afternoon in the Jardin Botanique de l'Evêché and the Jardin Botanique Alpin, two of the city’s best botanical gardens, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Why Go?

For a traditional approach to life in France, plan a short break in Limoges. The quaint city is a beautiful display of historic buildings, fine art, interesting exhibitions, ancient churches and arts and crafts. Tour the parks and garden or stroll along the banks of the Vienne River.

When to Go?

An Oceanic climate features in Limoges as it does throughout France. High winds during autumn and winter are frequent with average temperatures of 7°C. The summer months of June-September are hot and dry; temperatures can reach up to 28°C making it a particularly favoured time to visit. Occasional heavy rainfall appears during the summer, formed from thunderstorms over the Bay of Biscay but these are fast and infrequent.

How to Get There?

Limoges is served by Limoges Airport (LIG) located 15 minutes’ drive from the city centre. Direct flights from the UK are available including Southampton, London and Liverpool. Domestic routes are used frequently by those travelling within France such as Lyon and Paris. There is no public bus service but a taxi rank is positioned outside the terminal building. Alternatively you can book a private hire at the desk within reception.

Must See

Kaolin, a rock used for making porcelain, was discovered at Saint-Yrieix-la-Perche in 1768. From that moment Limoges became a vast producer of porcelain artwork. To this day over half of French porcelain comes from Limoges. Take a tour of Le Pavillon de la Porcelain and watch the craftsmen at work; the exquisite material takes many forms including sculptures and ornaments. Stop by the gift shop to pick up a keepsake of your trip.