Hotels in Clermont-Ferrand

Clermont-Ferrand is the capital of the Auvergne and a working industrial city first, built around Michelin, which was founded here and still keeps its headquarters in town, alongside a lively university population. Its old centre is unusually dark: the Gothic cathedral and many surrounding buildings are built from black volcanic Volvic stone, giving the hilltop quarter a brooding, distinctive look, while the Romanesque basilica of Notre-Dame-du-Port is one of the finest in France.

The real draw for many visitors is just outside town, where the Chaîne des Puys volcanoes and the Puy de Dôme offer excellent hiking. The city also hosts a major international short film festival and passionate rugby crowds. Be honest: beyond the old town it can feel grey and functional, rail links to Paris are slow, and the small Clermont-Ferrand Auvergne airport offers limited routes. Stay around Place de Jaude and the old town for walkable access to restaurants, the cathedral and the tram.