Limoges

From classic French townhouses tucked away down cobbled alleyways to luxury international chains, Limoges has a wide range of accommodation. Stately Castel Faugeras (3 allée De Faugeras) makes the perfect base for an extended stay – an 18th-century chateau on the outskirts of the city, it sits in several hectares of undulating parkland and offers guests the use of a Jacuzzi, hammam and tennis court. A more central option is the Hôtel Mercure Royal Limousin (Place de La République) – a modern, marble-heavy chain within walking distance of the Opéra-Théâtre and historic districts. Inter Hotel Arion (30 rue Frédéric Bastiat) is a little further from the centre, but its pocket-friendly prices make it a good budget option.

Make for the Place de Motte and explore the boutique shops that adorn the pedestrianised streets. The square itself plays host to a daily covered market, or if you prefer your groceries to be of the gourmet variety then seek out Paroles de Chef (17 place de la République). Boulevard Louis Blanc is at the forefront of the porcelain trade, while elegant objets d’art can be found at interior design boutique Cubic (22 rue du Consulat) and jewellery boutique Alibabeth et les 40 Couleurs (25-27 rue de la Boucherie).

Limoges is famed for its meat-heavy cuisine, and has been hailed as the ‘city of butchers’. Homely brasseries are everywhere, such as Table de Jean (5 rue de la Boucherie) where the braised beef comes highly recommended, as does the horse steak at Chez Alphonse (5 place de la Motte). Vegetarians need not fear however, Planetalis (16 rue de la Terrasse) offers an excellent array of organic health food. For a Michelin-starred Mediterranean-inspired experience head to Amphitryon (26 rue de la Boucherie).

Tous à l’Opéra

May

Each year L’Opéra-Théâtre de Limoges throws open its doors to celebrate this national festival, and puts on a weekend of free shows and behind-the-scenes tours to entertain and educate visitors.

Urbaka

June

Crowds of more than 200,000 descend on this street art festival each year to take in the art installations. They spring up in what are usually ordinary public spaces, such as streets, squares, lawns and fountains.

Cuivres en Fête

August

Enjoy concerts, street music, dancing and jamming sessions as the Opéra-Théâtre and the bandstand at the Jardin d’Orsay celebrate brass music in style. Leading musicians from around the globe convene to help deliver one of the France’s biggest festivals of its kind.

Les Francophonies en Limousin

September

This celebration of French-speaking culture, going since 1984, encompasses a wide array of entertainment from visual arts, dance and theatre to French-language music and literature.

La Frairie des Petits Ventres

October

Explore the meat products that aren't to be found on supermarket shelves at this day-long festival. Blood sausage sandwiches and lamb testicles may not be for everyone, as some may prefer to settle for the religious procession around the Rue de la Boucherie that sees the day out.