If you’ve got a layover in Auxerre, don’t let it go to waste sitting at AUF. The city, in France, is within easy reach — roughly 40 minutes by Taxi. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave AUF:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for France. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Auxerre takes about 40 minutes by Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Exploring Auxerre on a Layover
For a layover visit to Auxerre, we’d suggest Auxerre Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Ãtienne) and Clock Tower (Tour de l’Horloge). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside. The views are worth the trip if you have time.
If you’d rather stay inside AUF — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Aircraft Viewing Spot
- Aéro-Club d’Auxerre Information Point
Best Bites Near AUF
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Auxerre: Le Jardin Gourmand and Le Bourgogne. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Vending Machine Corner or Aéro-Club d’Auxerre Snack Bar. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Transport from Auxerre-Branches Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Auxerre-Branches Airport into town:
- Taxi: About 40 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 60 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How Much Money You’ll Need
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Auxerre:
Transport to the city and back runs about $11 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $22 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $43 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Auxerre.
Bag Storage Near AUF
Specific locker facilities at AUF aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Auxerre itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and AUF is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Auxerre and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Rest Areas & Lounges
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at AUF.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Auxerre is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Auxerre.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.