Rodez

Rodez, France

Located at the foot of the Massif Central and less than a two-hour drive from the Mediterranean, Rodez is the capital of the Aveyron Region. This picturesque region is one of the best kept secrets of France, offering more attractions than you would expect. Rodez is surrounded by several village communities, all rich in cultural and historical assets, which contribute to making the town a prime tourist destination.

Population:

25,747

Currency:

1 Euro = 100 cents

Emergency Numbers:

Emergency: 112
Ambulance: 15
Police: 17
Fire: 18

Opening Hours:

Most shops are open from Monday to Saturday (9:00 am - 7:00 pm), but smaller shops may be closed at lunch time (12:00 pm - 2:00 pm). Shops are closed on Sunday and public holidays except for annual sales events.

Newspapers:

La Dépêche du Midi
Midi Libre
L’Hebdo

The City

Rodez was the historical capital of Rouergue, a former province of France, now the prefecture of the department of Aveyron. It has been an Episcopal city since the 4th century, proud of its beautiful 80-metre tall cathedral with its impressive bell-tower.

This charming town is easy to explore on foot: a romantic walk will take you on a journey through the city’s two thousand years of history. Furthermore, between town and countryside, Greater Rodez is home to a renowned historical heritage with beautiful sites to visit.

Do & See

Old Rodez features several historic townhouses and mansions from the 14th-17th centuries, and beautiful religious buildings like the chapel of the old Jesuit College. You will love wandering on Rodez’s footpaths and alleys, where you’ll also find some truly excellent restaurants with their regional specialities, small cafés with enchanting terraces and beautiful open-air markets.

Dining

The local gastronomy is renowned for its range of excellent foodstuffs and labels, including the famous Roquefort or Bleu des Causes cheeses, as well as the wines of Marcillac. In Rodez, the gastronomy is varied and particularly savoury and among the local specialities, the foie gras, tripous confits, stuffed cabbage and Estofinado are the most popular.

Cafes

In a cosy French city like Rodez you’re never more than few steps away from the town’s restaurants and cafés and their traditional specialities. So sit down in the closest patio and enjoy the people-watching with a café au laît and a freshly baked croissant.