Limoges is located about 30 minutes away by car, and can be reached either via the A20 or on the longer scenic route taking in Magnac Laval and Chateauponsac. On the drive into the city, be sure to pass the stunning Limoges station, with its monumental clock tower. There are pretty ornamental gardens and fountains near the station. Limoges has medieval pockets scattered throughout and you can stumble upon the most amazing lopsided medieval buildings anywhere and spot the tell-tale wooden beaming everywhere. There are 13th century bridges, and river walks. There is a tourist “train” that departs from the Tourist Office from which you can take in some of the sights.

 

There are plenty of very good restaurants, including some by the river, and lots where you can eat al fresco. There is a good selection of informal and formal dining available, particularly in the butcher’s quarter which is now a popular area for eating and drinking (see Local cuisine and restaurants on this website).  

 

In the centre, there is underground parking either in the Place de Motte or the Place de Republic, as well as street parking.  Much of the shopping in Limoges is pedestrianised, and runs uphill along pretty cobbled roads towards the Place de Motte, where there is also the covered market (open from 8am – 2pm) which is a lovely place to browse and try different cheeses and saucissons, as well as having a stunning selection of fish, meats, fruit and vegetables. On a Saturday, the market has a great buzz, and the traders are always happy to talk about their produce.

 

Limoges has a fantastic selection of chocolate shops, and you can often arrange a visit to where the chocolate is made (with tastings!!). There are also plenty of boutiques as well as two large department stores for the fashion conscious. If you wish to invest in some of the famous Limoges porcelain, there are dozens and dozens of specialist shops, some with ornate designs, and others with simpler styles. However, if you want to buy a large amount of porcelain, making a visit to some of the factory shops is worthwhile. There is an indoor shopping centre outside the main part of Limoges that has a good selection of shops.

 

There are plenty of “trocs” and brocante shops in and around Limoges, as well as specialist antique dealers and galleries. There is of course the monthly brocante market near the Cathedral, which also sells food, and has a great atmosphere. There are plenty of restaurants to suit every taste, and in the summer you can usually dine al fresco. 

 

Limoges has an impressive selection of cultural activities on offer, including the Opera and Theatre in the centre of town. There are also lots of art exhibitions in local galleries that are enjoyable for browsing. The “Arts of Fire” porcelain, glass, enamel and stained glass, are still important to the city, and the traditional methods are supported. There are museums exhibiting these arts, and many of the famous names, such as Havilland, show works and have demonstrations.

 

The Musée Municipal de l’Evêché (once an Episcopalian palace) near the Cathedral, has an eclectic collection, and is proud of its Renoir’s, especially since the painter was born in Limoges in 1841. There is also an excellent Egyptian archaeology collection and there are also changing exhibitions. There is also a Resistance Museum nearby.

 

The Evêché Gardens are spread over several hectares, on different levels, and set out on terraces, and include an Orangerie. There is a maze set out on grass (without hedges) that is fun for children, but children seem to like the segmented style of the gardens generally. Looking down from the terraces you can see the river, and the medieval Pont St Etienne, which is very pretty (and has a good restaurant right next to it of the same name).

 

The Cathedral is very impressive, and is thought to be built on the ruins of the Roman temple. At present, there is an excavation going on in the near vicinity of the cathedral.  Its construction began in 1273, and its gothic style is marvellous. The interior has stunning frescoes (and the design of the Château’s chapel ceiling is based on one of the designs ). The stained glass is breathtaking.  It is currently undergoing restoration, which is now nearly complete.  The smaller church, near the Place de Motte, has lovely stained glass, and is also worth wandering into. If you are near the covered market, or the Rue Boucherie, you must look at the breathtaking Chapelle St-Aurélien there. It is tiny, but has a huge and intricate cross outside and was built in the 14 Century. It has a wonderful air of mystery, and transports you to an entirely different time.

 

The Musée des Distilleries Limougeaudes, will be of interest to many, and shows the making of the many local traditional spirits. It is very small, but you can taste the liquors, now made by the son of the wine merchant who took over the business many years ago. The wine vaults hold an impressive collection, but are not for public viewing, although the wine merchant’s main showroom is well worth a visit and is one of the best in south west France. They are always happy to chat about their wines, and tastings can be arranged.

 

The Hotel de Ville is an imposing building that speaks of the city’s wealth, and is artfully lit at night. It often hosts exhibitions, and the little garden and enamelled fountain is lovely.

 

As you drive or walk around Limoges, you will catch glimpses of some of the ancient parts of the city, such as the Boucherie (the butcher’s quarter), and on the river there is the charming medieval bridge.  There are lovely river walks, and several play areas for younger visitors.