Arcy-sur-Cure Caves
Step back in time at the Arcy-sur-Cure Caves, home to ancient mammoth paintings and breathtaking geological wonders.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Arcy-sur-Cure Caves
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the Arcy-sur-Cure Caves, home to ancient mammoth paintings and breathtaking geological wonders.
"Awe-inspiring prehistoric art and vast caverns make this a must-visit for history and nature lovers."
🧥 Bring a Sweater!
It's a chilly 12-15°C inside year-round. Don't forget layers!
📸 No Photos Allowed
Capture memories in your mind, not on your phone. Photography is prohibited inside.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Prehistoric Rock Paintings
Inside the caves
Marvel at ancient mammoth and ibex paintings, some dating back 30,000 years. A truly awe-inspiring glimpse into our past.
Vast Underground Chambers
Throughout the cave system
Explore immense caverns adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. The sheer scale is breathtaking.
Underground Lake
Specific cavern
Discover a serene underground lake, adding to the mystical atmosphere of the caves.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress for the Underground
Book Your Tour in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Caves of Arcy-sur-Cure (France)
🧥 Bring a Sweater!
It's a chilly 12-15°C inside year-round. Don't forget layers!
📸 No Photos Allowed
Capture memories in your mind, not on your phone. Photography is prohibited inside.
💰 Tip Your Guide
Guides are knowledgeable and engaging; cash tips are appreciated.
🐶 Dog-Sitting Available
Traveling with a furry friend? They offer dog-sitting for a small fee.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Bring a Sweater!
It's a chilly 12-15°C inside year-round. Don't forget layers!
📸 No Photos Allowed
Capture memories in your mind, not on your phone. Photography is prohibited inside.
💰 Tip Your Guide
Guides are knowledgeable and engaging; cash tips are appreciated.
🐶 Dog-Sitting Available
Traveling with a furry friend? They offer dog-sitting for a small fee.
💧 Clean Restrooms
Facilities are well-maintained and clean for visitor convenience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Arcy-sur-Cure Caves for their stunning prehistoric paintings and impressive geological formations. Guides are frequently highlighted for their knowledge, humor, and ability to engage all ages, making the tours both educational and enjoyable. The cool, natural environment adds to the unique experience, though the no-photography rule is a common point of note.
"We went with 2 children 4 and 6. We did the hour tour.
Had the best time. The guide really explained to the children and made them part of the tour. Tour was in French and English. Really recommend this. There is a small shop , icecreamas and drinks.
Toilets are really clean.
Lots of seating whilst waiting for our tour to start.
Have already recommended this to other people where we are staying."
Jane Robinson
"Was a spontaneous visit for us on our way back from Fontainbleau to Germany. The tour was fun, informative and was even conducted in english for our international group. The cave paintings are very interesting and the guide very kind and eager to answer our questions. The caverns are vast, and there's lots to see in the 1 hour tour.
The gift store was also very nice, with cheap ammonites, crystals and cool trinkets. One is not allowed to post photos."
Akash Nair
"Highly recommended tour to explore the caves. Tour is about 1h30 and good for kids 7 and up. Would not recommend for younger kids. Don't forget to bring a sweater as it is cold inside (12 degrees celcius/53 degrees fahrenheit)!"
Julien Jomier
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Arcy-sur-Cure Caves are located in Arcy-sur-Cure, France. Driving is the most common way to reach them, with parking available on-site. Public transport options are limited, so check local bus schedules if you're not driving.
The nearest train station is in Auxerre, which is a short drive from Arcy-sur-Cure. From Auxerre, you would typically need to arrange a taxi or local bus to reach the caves.
From Paris, take the A6 motorway south towards Lyon, then exit for Auxerre. Follow signs for Arcy-sur-Cure. The caves are well-signposted once you are in the vicinity.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the Arcy-sur-Cure Caves, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Yes, it's possible to visit Arcy-sur-Cure Caves as a day trip from Paris, though it's a long day. It's about a 2-hour drive each way, so an early start is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the tour duration. It's best to check the official Arcy-sur-Cure Caves website for the most up-to-date pricing information.
Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure you get a spot on your desired tour and language.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. Always check the official website for the most current operating times before your visit.
Yes, there are typically different tour lengths available, such as a 1-hour tour or a longer 1.5-hour tour, offering varying levels of exploration.
While younger children can attend, some visitors suggest tours are better suited for children aged 7 and up due to the duration and content.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The caves maintain a constant cool temperature of around 12-15°C (53-59°F) year-round, so dressing in layers is essential.
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the caves to preserve the delicate formations and ancient paintings.
Tours usually last between 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the option you choose.
Yes, tours are often conducted in both French and English, especially for mixed groups. It's advisable to confirm the language schedule when booking.
There is a small shop, ice cream and drinks available, clean restrooms, and seating areas for waiting for tours.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There isn't a full restaurant inside the caves, but there is a small shop that sells ice cream and drinks. You can also enjoy a picnic in the designated areas.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy a picnic in the scenic areas around the caves, especially along the river.
The shop typically offers ice cream and drinks for purchase. It's also a good place to find souvenirs.
The nearby town of Arcy-sur-Cure and the larger city of Auxerre offer various dining options, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants.
Given the limited food options on-site, it's a good idea to have a meal before or after your visit, or pack a picnic to enjoy by the river.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is strictly forbidden inside the caves. This rule is in place to protect the delicate cave formations and ancient rock art.
Yes, the natural surroundings, the river, and the entrance to the caves offer scenic views for photography.
Focus on the experience and the stories shared by your guide. You can also take photos of the surrounding landscape and the cave entrance.
The flash from cameras can damage the ancient paintings and the sensitive cave ecosystem. It's a measure to ensure preservation for future generations.
While you can't capture images, the visual experience of the paintings and formations is often described as unforgettable and deeply impactful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Bring a sweater for everyone, as it's cool inside. While photography is not allowed, the visual experience is captivating. The site also offers a small shop with treats and clean restrooms. For added convenience, they provide dog-sitting services if you're traveling with a pet. Consider a picnic by the river after your tour for a complete family outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
Budget tips: Pack your own snacks and drinks to avoid purchasing from the on-site shop. The gift shop does offer affordable souvenirs like ammonites and crystals. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) when crowds might be smaller, potentially leading to a more intimate experience without extra cost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ancient Art of Arcy-sur-Cure
It's crucial to remember that photography is strictly prohibited inside the caves. This rule is in place to protect the delicate pigments and the cave environment from the damaging effects of camera flashes and increased human traffic. While you won't be able to take pictures, the visual memory of these ancient masterpieces is often described as profound and lasting.
Visitors often express awe at the preservation of these paintings, a testament to the stable environment within the caves. The guides are usually very knowledgeable about the history and significance of the art, making the experience both educational and deeply moving.
Exploring the Subterranean World
Guides play a vital role in illuminating the geological processes that formed these caves. They explain how the underground river carved out these spaces and how the mineral deposits created the stunning formations. The temperature inside remains consistently cool, around 12-15°C, so wearing appropriate clothing is essential for a comfortable experience.
Many visitors comment on the raw and natural feel of the caves, appreciating their well-preserved state. The combination of ancient art and natural beauty makes for a truly unique subterranean adventure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit