Moulins Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Locality

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the picturesque region of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes in France, the charming commune of Moulins offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its rich heritage, stunning architecture, and tranquil surroundings, Moulins is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travelers seeking an authentic French experience.

One of the highlights of Moulins is its magnificent historic center, which is home to a wealth of architectural treasures. The iconic Cathedral of Moulins, with its Gothic spires and intricate stained glass windows, is a sight to behold. Step inside to admire its grandeur and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Nearby, the Maison Mantin, a beautifully preserved mansion from the 19th century, offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the past.

For art enthusiasts, the Musée Anne de Beaujeu is a must-visit. Housed in a former palace, this museum showcases a remarkable collection of art and artifacts from various periods. From ancient sculptures to modern masterpieces, the exhibits offer a fascinating journey through time. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic.

Nature lovers will be enchanted by the tranquil beauty of the Allier River, which runs through Moulins. Take a leisurely boat ride along its calm waters and immerse yourself in the serenity of the surrounding countryside. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a bicycle and explore the scenic bike paths that wind through the picturesque landscapes of the region.

No visit to Moulins would be complete without savoring the local cuisine. Indulge in the region's gastronomic delights, from hearty dishes like pâté aux pommes de terre (potato pie) to delicate pastries like macarons. Visit the bustling farmers' markets to sample fresh produce and mingle with the friendly locals who take pride in their culinary traditions.

Alternative names: Population: 23.1 thous. (2019)Area: 3.32 mi²Elevation: 712 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 46°33'54"N, 3°19'55"E

Location

Auvergne-Rhône-AlpesFrance

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Moulins Top Attractions

Moulins Attractions - What to See and Explore

Moulins offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Maison Mantin, Centre National du Costume de Scene, Moulins Cathedral, Yzeure. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Museum • Historical place • History museum
Maison Mantin
The Maison Mantin is a late 19th-century French mansion located in the town of Moulins in the Allier department of central France. The mansion, shuttered for more than a century, opened its doors to the public in November 2010 as a museum.
Museum • Specialty museum • Arts and crafts
Centre National du Costume de Scene
Centre National du Costume de Scene, is a French museum dedicated to stage costumes and sets. It was inaugurated on 1 July 2006 in Moulins, Allier by Renaud Donnedieu de Vabres the Minister of Culture, Pierre-André Périssol the mayor of Moulins and Christian Lacroix, dressmaker and board chairman.
Church • Gothic architecture
Moulins Cathedral
Moulins Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church located in the town of Moulins, Allier, France. The cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of Moulins. It is a national monument. The cathedral contains two distinct building phases four centuries apart.

Area
Yzeure
Yzeure is a commune in the department of Allier in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of central France.
Museum • Art museum • History museum
musée Anne de Beaujeu
The Anne-de-Beaujeu Pavilion is a wing of the castle of the Dukes of Bourbon, located in Moulins in the French department of Allier and the Auvergne region.
46°34'1"N • 3°20'1"E
Musée de l'Illustration Jeunesse
Museum • Specialty museum • Art museum
Church
Church of the Sacred Heart
The Sacred Heart Church is a Catholic church located in Moulins, in France.
Restaurant
tour Jacquemart
The Jacquemart tower is a clock tower of about thirty meters high located in the center of Moulins, so called because of the jacquemart it bears. Built in the middle of the 15th century, it has been modified and restored after several fires.
Church
St. Peter's Church
The Saint-Pierre church is a Catholic church located in Moulins, France. Dedicated to Saint Peter, it depends for the worship of the diocese of Moulins.
46°33'43"N • 3°19'53"E
Moulins communauté
Library
Church
St. Peter's Church
The Saint-Pierre church is a Catholic church located in Yzeure, in France.

Day trips

Moulins – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Moulins, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Château d'Ainay-le-Vieil (Ainay-le-Vieil), Forest of Tronçais, Souvigny Priory (Souvigny).

38 milesW
Historical place, Forts and castles
Château d'Ainay-le-Vieil, Ainay-le-Vieil
Château d'Ainay-le-Vieil is a 14th-century castle built on the grounds of an earlier 12th century castle in Ainay-le-Vieil, Cher, France. After having bought the castle from Jacques Cœur, Charles de Bigny built a pre-Renaissance Louis XII style chateaux from 1500 to 1505.
29 milesW
Nature, Forest, Natural attraction
Forest of Tronçais
Nestled in the heart of France, the Forest of Tronçais is a majestic and ancient woodland that stands as a testament to the natural beauty and ecological significance of the French countryside. This sprawling forest covers approximately 10,600 hectares and is renowned...
6.9 miW
Sacred and religious sites, Monastery
Souvigny Priory, Souvigny
Souvigny Priory, in the commune of Souvigny, Allier, France, in the centre of the old province of the Bourbonnais, was formerly a Cluniac priory, of which the church remains in operation.
30 milesN
Forts and castles
Palais ducal de Nevers, Nevers
The Ducal Palace of Nevers is a residence castle of the 15th and 16th centuries that once belonged to the counts and dukes of Nevers. Located in Nevers, France, it is classified as a French monument historique in the list of historic monuments of 1840.
26 milesSE
Forts and castles, Museum, History museum
Château de La Palice, Lapalisse
The Château de La Palice is a castle, developed into a château, in the commune of Lapalisse in the Allier department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France.

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Best Time To Visit Moulins

Learn when is the best time to travel to Moulins weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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July is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Many people also choose to visit in June and August.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in February, March and April. Most of it rains in May, June and August.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Moulins?

The top attractions to visit in Moulins are:

What is the best time to visit Moulins?

July is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Many people also choose to visit in June and August. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.