Bourges Cathedral

Completely underrated - a Sunday well spent I’m not usually one to leave long reviews, but Bourges Cathedral deserves it. We stopped here on a Sunday just to break up a drive, having never really seen it before, and I was completely blown away. It is absolutely massive, and honestly, I think it’s even more impressive than Notre Dame in Paris because it feels so much wider and more open inside. Because we visited on a Sunday morning, the atmosphere was incredible. We caught the tail end of the service, and hearing the organ music fill up a room that big was actually kind of emotional. It gave me chills. It made the building feel alive rather than just like a quiet museum. Even though there were people praying, we still felt welcome to walk around the side aisles quietly. The stained glass is the real highlight here. The sun was hitting the windows just right, and the colors are so deep and vibrant—it’s crazy to think they made those in the 13th century. It’s very dark and moody inside, which makes the windows pop even more. After we finished inside, we walked around to the garden at the back (I think it's called the Archbishop’s Garden). Definitely don’t skip this part. It’s a really nice place to sit and relax, but it also gives you the best view of the back of the cathedral where you can see all the flying buttresses holding the roof up. It looks like a giant stone skeleton. If you are anywhere near the area, you have to stop. It’s free to enter, stunningly beautiful, and was the highlight of our weekend.

Visited this cathedral with my wife in the summer of 2024 and it was one of the highlights of our trip. Bourges Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Étienne) is truly impressive — the Gothic architecture feels powerful and elegant at the same time. Inside, the space is vast, calm, and filled with light, making you want to slow down and take in every detail, especially the stained glass windows. A place with a strong sense of history and atmosphere, absolutely worth visiting. Tip: try to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon when it’s less crowded and the light is softer. If possible, walk around the cathedral from all sides — the views from the back and nearby gardens are especially beautiful

Out of all the cathedrals that we have seen so far in our trip, this was one of my favorite ones! It's breathtaking and unique. The way the columns are made gives you the impression it's drawn with a pencil. It was absolutely worth the detour!

The Bourges Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic art and harmony. Its towering arches, intricate stained glass, and serene atmosphere inspire pure wonder. Every detail feels alive with history and faith. The view from the towers over the old town is magical. A visit here leaves you deeply moved and full of admiration.

Bourges cathedral is a must visit. We went in the morning between 8 & 9 when the light from the east perfectly lights the cathedral from the gardens. It is also very quiet and peaceful. It is extremely grand with many arches.

Beautiful Cathedral This is a great holy place to visit. Fantastic & Iconic building in the heart of Bourges. As usual in France this Cathedral is very old. Around 800 years. It is well worth your time to visit and admire the amazing architecture both inside and outside.

Maybe this is the most beautiful cathedral I’ve visited since now. The interior of the cathedral is imposing and spectacular, with wonderful stained-glass windows. The crypt is well worth a visit; it must be booked in advance and is usually combined with a visit to the Jacques Coeur Palace.

The architecture is absolutely impressive, it is among the most beautiful cathedrals visited, gorgeous on the inside but the outside does not disappoint either.