Vierzon is a town of contrasting faces with a longstanding industrial heritage coupled with modern design and excellent food.
Uncover decades of iron, china and agricultural industries memorialized by statues and museums in Vierzon. Enjoy an evening at one of the many superb restaurants in the town.
Immerse yourself in the history of Vierzon with a walk through the old quarter at the western end of town. Wander past ghostly iron structures and factories that were once at the heart of the region’s economy.
Visit the Museum of Vierzon for further insight. See displays of agricultural machinery and antique steam trains, along with examples of the glass and stoneware that was once produced in the community. The exhibit of 19th- and 20th-century photos will transport you back in time onto the factory floor.
From the museum, head southeast through the bustling streets and markets to the Lucien-Beaufrère Public Gardens created around the town square during the 1920s and 1930s. Carved sandstone motifs portray the area’s traditional local trades. A memorial honors local soldiers. Stay here a while to admire the charming Yèvre River overlooked by clumps of thick, leafy trees or go north to see the elegant town hall.
The town is blessed with a vast assortment of excellent restaurants. The highest concentration is located close to the museum. Find delicious pizza and crêpes at casual spots or seek out up-scale restaurants serving fresh fish and beef. Hotels and guesthouses cater to all budgets, with many enjoying idyllic river views.
Vierzon is in the Loire Valley, a 40-minute drive northwest of Bourges, the department capital, and 2 hours south of Paris. Come during July and August for the Les Estivales du Canal, a festive celebration of music with live concerts and shows spanning a variety of genres. Go up in a hot air balloon to get a spectacular view of the town and the pastoral surroundings.
Rich in history, Vierzon offers beauty and fascinating culture in equal measure.
