Vierzon is a town of the Berry where the Yèvre flows into the Cher. The Canal de Berry runs through it, and for more than a century its factories made porcelain, farm machinery and tractors. Today it is a relaxed stop at the crossroads of the Loire valley, the Sologne and the Berry.
Why stay in Vierzon
It is a handy base on the main road and rail lines between Paris and the south, close to the forests and ponds of the Sologne, the city of Bourges and the vineyards of Quincy and Reuilly.
Things to see in and around Vierzon
The belfry and the old town
The belfry, a gate tower of the medieval walls, stands over the narrow streets of the old town, next to the Notre-Dame church and the gardens of the former abbey.
The Cher and the Canal de Berry
Paths follow the river Cher and the towpath of the Canal de Berry, good for easy walks and bike rides.
The Sologne
North of the town begin the forests, heathland and ponds of the Sologne, a land of hunting lodges, mushrooms and wildlife.
Bourges and the vineyards
Bourges, with its UNESCO-listed Gothic cathedral, is about 35 km away; the white-wine villages of Quincy and Reuilly are even closer.
Best time to visit
April to October for walks and cycling by the river and the canal; autumn for the colours, mushrooms and game of the Sologne.
Getting there
Vierzon is a rail junction on the Paris–Orléans–Limoges–Toulouse line and the Tours–Bourges line, with direct trains to Paris-Austerlitz. The A20 and A71 motorways meet near the town. The nearest airports are Tours and Paris-Orly.
What to eat
Berry and Sologne flavours: pâté de Pâques (Easter pie with eggs), game and mushrooms from the Sologne, goat’s cheeses such as Valençay and crottin de Chavignol, and white wines from Quincy and Reuilly.
FAQ
What is Vierzon known for?
Its industrial heritage – porcelain and the famous Vierzon tractors – and its position at the gateway to the Sologne.
How far is Vierzon from Bourges?
About 35 km, around half an hour by car or train.
