Bourges in 24 Hours
If you’re looking for a city in France that offers a rich history, stunning architecture, and a slower pace, Bourges might just be the perfect destination. I recently spent a day wandering through this lesser-known gem, and while 24 hours barely scratches the surface, it was enough to fall in love with its medieval charm and fascinating history.
A Walk Through Time: Bourges' History
Bourges is a city with deep roots. It was once the capital of the ancient Gallic tribe, the Bituriges, and later became an important Roman city. The historic vibe of Bourges is strong—walking its cobbled streets feels like stepping back in time.
In the 15th century, Bourges rose to prominence under Charles VII, who made it the capital of France during the Hundred Years’ War. It was also home to Jacques Coeur, the famous merchant and treasurer of the king, whose grand palace still stands in the city. His mansion, the Palais Jacques Coeur, is an absolute must-see—it’s a stunning mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture that reflects the wealth and ambition of its owner.
The Masterpiece of Bourges: Cathédrale Saint-Étienne
If there’s one thing you absolutely can’t miss, it’s the Cathédrale Saint-Étienne, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As soon as I laid eyes on it, I was blown away by its scale and beauty. This Gothic masterpiece dates back to the 12th century and rivals even the more famous cathedrals in France.
What struck me most about Saint-Étienne was its intricate stained-glass windows, some of the finest examples from the 13th century. The detail is incredible, and I found myself lost in the stories they depict. The cathedral is massive, with five naves and no transept, which makes it feel even grander. The climb to the top is worth it for breathtaking views of the city.
Wandering the Old Town
One of my favorite parts of Bourges was just getting lost in the medieval streets of the old town. There’s something magical about the half-timbered houses, narrow alleyways, and hidden courtyards. The city feels authentic—like a place where history isn’t just preserved, but lived in. I stumbled upon charming little cafés, artisanal shops, and found myself slowing down, enjoying the quiet, untouristed vibe.
Where To Stay: Logis Villa C Hôtel
On a recent stopover in Bourges, I had the pleasure of staying at Logis Villa C Hôtel, a cozy boutique hotel that was the perfect base for my 24-hour visit to this charming French town. As a solo traveler, comfort, convenience, and a friendly atmosphere are key for me—and this hotel delivered on all fronts.
One of the best things about Villa C is its location. It’s just a stone’s throw from the train station, which was super convenient for me, but don’t worry—the noise isn’t an issue. In fact, it was a pretty quiet spot, and the hotel is only about a 15-minute walk to the heart of the old town, including the stunning Cathédrale Saint-Étienne. For a quick stopover, the location couldn’t have been more ideal, giving me easy access to explore Bourges on foot.
I stayed in a ground-floor room that came with its own little garden patio, which was a great bonus. The room was clean, modern, and surprisingly spacious for a boutique hotel. The bed? Incredibly comfortable—perfect for a good night’s sleep after a day of exploring. It felt like the perfect blend of style and comfort, which is just what you want after a long travel day.
The service at Villa C really stood out. The staff were incredibly friendly and went out of their way to make my stay smooth. I arrived late, but late check-in wasn’t a problem at all. I even managed to order a drink via room service around midnight, which was a nice perk! Breakfast was flexible, and when I had a small issue with my car, they were quick to help. In fact, one of the owners even helped me find street parking when their limited parking was full, and later moved my car to a better spot—talk about going above and beyond!
The breakfast at Villa C was delightful, especially for someone like me who enjoys starting the day with something sweet. The apricot clafoutis was a standout—a little taste of heaven that I’m still thinking about! While breakfast is charged separately, it was well worth it with a variety of fresh and tasty options to choose from.
The whole place had a really welcoming atmosphere. It’s a small, boutique hotel, so you get that personalized touch that’s often missing in larger chains. The staff, who are part of the couple who own the hotel, were attentive and made sure everything was in order during my stay. It didn’t feel like just another hotel stop—it felt like a home away from home, and that’s what really sets it apart.
