France’s Underrated Volcanic City Is Now Just a Ryanair Flight Away
If you’ve never heard of Clermont-Ferrand, don’t worry, most people haven’t. Perched in the heart of central France and newly linked to London Stansted by Ryanair as of March 2025, this moody, medieval city feels like something out of a storybook.
Picture cobbled streets, dramatic black-stone buildings, sleepy cafés and wide-open volcanic views – all with zero tourist swarms and surprisingly decent prices.
Why Ryanair Picked Clermont-Ferrand?
Untapped nature and culture:
Clermont is the unofficial gateway to the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Park, which boasts over 80 dormant volcanic peaks, rugged hiking trails and wide skies. It’s pure outdoorsy escapism, with barely a coach tour in sight.
Gothic drama and volcanic architecture:
Most of the old town is built from dark volcanic stone, giving the whole place an atmospheric, slightly gothic edge — like a film set, but real.
Low-key, high charm:
Clermont feels effortlessly French but without the Parisian stress. Think slow afternoons, tiny wine bars, handwritten menus and a proper sense of calm. If you like your city breaks a bit off-beat and a lot more authentic, this is your place.
Five Must-Do Things in Clermont-Ferrand
1. Take the Panoramic Train to the Top of Puy de Dôme
This is the big-ticket adventure, and it’s well worth it. The Puy de Dôme volcano stands tall above the city, and the electric panoramic train (the Panoramique des Dômes) glides all the way up. At the summit, you’ll get sweeping views of rolling volcanic hills, and on a clear day you can see for miles. You’ll also find the ruins of the Roman Temple of Mercury, ideal for history lovers or anyone into ancient stones with a view.
2. Marvel at the Black Lava Cathedral
You can’t miss it, literally. The Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption looms over the city with twin spires made entirely from volcanic rock.
It’s got a wonderfully moody silhouette and the stained glass inside is absolutely worth a wander. Visit at golden hour for extra drama.
3. Step Back in Time at Basilique Notre-Dame-du-Port
Smaller but just as beautiful, this Romanesque basilica is tucked into the quieter side of town.
It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a bit of calm, with intricate carvings, symmetrical arches and a strong whiff of medieval elegance.
4. Lounge Around in Jardin Lecoq and Montjuzet Park
If the weather’s kind, these two green spaces are the perfect escape. Jardin Lecoq is more central, with flowerbeds, fountains and a laid-back café. Montjuzet Park, perched on a hill, has stunning panoramic views back over the cathedral and rooftops — a great picnic spot and ideal for catching the sunset.
5. Discover the World of Tyres at L’Aventure Michelin
Yes, tyres. And yes, it’s genuinely fascinating. This interactive museum tells the story of the Michelin company, which was born right here in Clermont. Expect a mix of vintage vehicles, quirky exhibits and surprisingly fun science. A great rainy day choice, and oddly inspirational.
Handy Tips for Visiting
Getting around
Clermont is super walkable, but there’s also a modern tram system and plenty of city bikes if you want to zip about. From the airport, the shuttle bus gets you into town in around 15 minutes.
Local food to try
Go straight for the truffade — a delicious dish of potatoes, melted local cheese and garlic. Pair it with cured meats and a glass of Auvergne wine.
Bonus points if you find a table outside and let the afternoon drift by.
Best phrase to know
Où est la cathédrale ? — Where is the cathedral?
(Though, to be fair, you’ll probably see it before you finish the question.)
Looking for fresh air, fewer crowds and a dash of volcanic drama? Clermont-Ferrand might just be your new favourite French escape.
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