Limoges is the capital of porcelain. For more than two centuries, its name has been synonymous with fine white tableware, and the city is still full of workshops, showrooms and museums. Add a medieval quarter, riverside gardens and a spectacular railway station, and Limoges makes a rewarding stop in the heart of France.
Why visit Limoges
Limoges offers arts and crafts, history and green spaces at a relaxed pace. It is also a gateway to the lakes and countryside of the Limousin.
Top things to do in Limoges
The Adrien Dubouché National Museum
The Musée national Adrien Dubouché has one of the world’s largest collections of porcelain and ceramics, from ancient pottery to contemporary design.
Enamels and the Museum of Fine Arts
Limoges is also famous for its enamels. The Musée des Beaux-Arts, in the former bishop’s palace, displays a remarkable collection, with the Jardins de l’Évêché overlooking the River Vienne.
The butchers’ quarter
The Quartier de la Boucherie is a lane of half-timbered houses where butchers once worked, with the tiny Chapel of Saint-Aurélien.
Saint-Étienne Cathedral
The Gothic Cathedral of Saint-Étienne took centuries to complete and has a remarkable rood screen.
The Bénédictins railway station
Limoges-Bénédictins station, with its clock tower and dome, is often called one of the most beautiful stations in France.
Oradour-sur-Glane
About 25 km away, the ruined village of Oradour-sur-Glane, preserved as it was after the massacre of 10 June 1944, is a moving memorial.
Best time to visit
May to September is ideal for the city and the surrounding countryside. Winters are cool and damp.
Getting there and around
Limoges-Bellegarde airport has a few European flights. Trains from Paris-Austerlitz take around 3 hours. The centre is easy to explore on foot, with buses and trolleybuses for longer trips.
What to eat
Limousin beef, pâté de pommes de terre, clafoutis (born in the Limousin), chestnuts and cep mushrooms.
Travel tips
- Visit a porcelain workshop or factory outlet.
- Allow time for Oradour-sur-Glane – it is an emotional visit.
Limoges FAQ
What is Limoges famous for?
Porcelain, enamels and its beautiful railway station.
How many days do you need?
One or two days, plus half a day for Oradour-sur-Glane.
