What to Do in Semur-en-Auxois in Summer? Jazz à Semur, the Must-See Event
What to Do in Semur-en-Auxois in Summer? Jazz à Semur, the Must-See Event
Planning a holiday in Burgundy and wondering what to do in Semur-en-Auxois in summer? This small medieval town, nestled in the heart of the Auxois region, has plenty of surprises in store for those who take the time to explore it. And among them, one event stands out every year as a true highlight of the summer season: the Jazz à Semur festival.
A Jazz Festival in the Heart of a Medieval Setting
Imagine the notes of a saxophone echoing off ancient stone ramparts, a trumpet soaring towards the towers of a 14th-century castle, and a crowd swaying to the groove beneath the Burgundian stars. That is exactly what Jazz à Semur offers every summer, in a setting that very few festivals in the world can match.
This major cultural event brings together internationally renowned artists each year for concerts that blend the traditions and modernity of jazz. From bebop to jazz fusion, drawing on both Afro-American and European influences, the programme appeals to seasoned enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike. The atmosphere is both festive and intimate — a quality unique to human-scale festivals where you can truly experience the music up close.
To browse the full programme and book your tickets, visit jazzasemur.fr. Tickets are available through HelloAsso, the festival’s official partner: Book my tickets.
Make the Most of Your Visit to Semur-en-Auxois
Coming for Jazz à Semur is also the perfect opportunity to (re)discover one of the most beautiful medieval towns in Burgundy. The remarkably well-preserved historic centre instantly transports you to another era. The ramparts encircling the old town, the four towers that have watched over the city for centuries, the cobbled lanes lined with half-timbered houses… every corner is an invitation to stroll and soak in the atmosphere.
Beyond the walls, the landscapes of Burgundy stretch out as far as the eye can see: lush valleys, dense forests, and fields of grain gilded by the summer sun. A living postcard that stays with you long after you leave.
The Pleasures of a Burgundian Summer
Summer in Semur-en-Auxois also means a wealth of activities and delights within easy reach. Food lovers will be in their element: the region is home to outstanding restaurants where Burgundian cuisine reigns supreme — beef bourguignon, escargots, gougères, époisses cheese… And of course, no visit to Burgundy would be complete without a wine tasting at one of the many surrounding estates. Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune, Chablis… prestigious appellations are never far away.
For nature lovers, the surrounding area offers wonderful walking and cycling routes, particularly along the Burgundy Canal or through the nearby Parc Naturel Régional du Morvan. A gentle, restorative way to make the most of the long summer days.
Practical Information
Semur-en-Auxois is easily accessible by car from Paris (approximately 2h30 via the A6 motorway) or by train to Montbard, a TGV station just 20 minutes away. On site, accommodation options are varied: charming hotels, rural gîtes, and bed and breakfasts will welcome you in a warm and authentic setting.
So what are you waiting for? This summer, let yourself be carried away by the music, history and flavours of Semur-en-Auxois. Jazz is waiting for you.
So what are you waiting for?
This summer, let yourself be carried away by the music, history and flavours of Semur-en-Auxois.
Jazz à Semur is waiting for you.