Things To Do
in Tarare
Tarare is a small town nestled at the edge of the Monts du Lyonnais in the Beaujolais region, offering a calm mix of rural charm and regional cuisine. It serves as a convenient gateway to both Lyon’s cultural sights and picturesque hillside landscapes. The town features a lively weekly market, traditional architecture, and friendly local artisans.
With nearby forests and vineyard trails, Tarare is a practical base for exploring nature as well as Beaujolais and Lyonnais culinary traditions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day in the heart of Tarare, where the historic architecture invites exploration. Visit the Church of Saint-Étienne, marveling at its neo-Gothic facade and intricate stained glass windows. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, stopping by local bakeries for a delicious pastry.
After lunch at a quaint café, continue your adventure by visiting the Museum of the History of Tarare. Here, you’ll learn about the town's rich heritage through fascinating exhibits and artifacts. Don't forget to explore the nearby Parc de la Mairie, a perfect spot for a relaxing walk among the trees.
As the sun sets, find a local restaurant to enjoy a traditional French dinner featuring regional specialties. Savor the flavors of Lyonnaise cuisine while soaking in the warm ambiance. End your evening with a leisurely stroll along the river, taking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Set out early for a scenic drive to the nearby Beaujolais wine region, known for its beautiful vineyards and rolling hills. Visit a local vineyard where you can learn about the wine-making process and the unique characteristics of Beaujolais wines. Enjoy a guided tasting session that introduces you to various local varietals.
After your tasting, enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch surrounded by the picturesque vineyard landscape. Spend the afternoon cycling or walking through the vineyards, taking in the stunning views and fresh air. Stop by small villages like Oingt or Fleurie to experience their charm and perhaps purchase a bottle of wine to take home.
Return to Tarare in the early evening and unwind at a local bistro. Relish a meal paired with a bottle of Beaujolais you picked up during your day. As night falls, join locals at a nearby pub for a taste of the vibrant community atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧀Local cheese or wine | $6-20 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room (1 night) | $60-120 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $3-6 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction ticket | $8-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-town atmosphere with easy access to Lyon and Beaujolais scenery
- Strong regional cuisine and welcoming locals
- Quality hiking and vineyard landscapes within reach
- Limited nightlife and fewer entertainment options compared to larger cities
- Public transport can be less frequent outside peak hours
- Some services and shops may close on Sundays or holidays
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est...?" - Where is...?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Tarare
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic squares framed by stone buildings and the local church; early morning and late afternoon offer soft light for architectural photography.
Green spaces and gentle river reflections, ideal for landscape and nature photography across seasons.
A charming riverside view with a historic bridge, great for sunset shots and moody skies.
Rolling hills and patchwork vineyards provide classic countryside imagery, especially during harvest and golden hour.
Food in Tarare
Tarare Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fluffy dumplings (often fish or meat-based) served in a creamy crayfish Nantua sauce, a regional specialty common in Lyonnais-style bistros.
Must-Try!
A bold pork sausage with a distinctive flavor, typically grilled or pan-seared and served with potatoes or onions.
A sweet almond praline tart, a pastry classic that pairs well with coffee or dessert wine.
A selection of local cheeses and cured meats from nearby farms, perfect for a tasting board.
Roasted chicken prepared with Beaujolais wine, a simple yet flavorful regional dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly town market offering fresh produce, cheeses, meats, baked goods, and regional specialties; great for sampling local flavors.
Weekend queues often feature crêpes, grilled sausages, and seasonal pastries near the market square.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet with Bonjour or Bonsoir when entering shops or greeting people; say Merci when you’re leaving. Use formal address until invited to be more casual.
Wait to be seated, keep hands on the table, and avoid loud conversations in quiet spaces; meals are often leisurely and social.
Romantic displays are acceptable but discretion is appreciated in more rural areas; keep voices moderate in residential streets, especially at night.
Safety
Tipping in Tarare
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included (service compris) in the bill. If the service is good and you’d like to show extra appreciation, rounding up the bill or leaving an additional 5-10% is common in casual dining. For cafés and bakeries, tipping is optional and usually modest.
Cards (credit/debit) and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is also common, especially in markets and smaller shops. ATMs are available in town and nearby villages.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild, increasingly green landscapes; great for outdoor markets, walking tours, and garden photography.
Warm days with longer evenings; stay hydrated, enjoy al fresco dining, and be mindful of occasional summer storms.
Harvest season brings rich colors in vineyards and forests; ideal for photography and wine tastings.
Cool to cold with potential frosts or light snow; cozy cafés and indoor cultural activities are common.
Tarare at Night
Hiking in Tarare
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and ridge route with panoramic views over Lyon basin; suitable for most hikers with some elevation gain.
Rolling vineyard and woodland path offering seasonal scenery and photo opportunities.
Gentle trails along streams with easy access from town, great for families and beginners.
Airports
How to reach Tarare by plane.
Major international airport (~1–1.5 hours by road/train from Tarare) with frequent connections to European hubs and long-haul destinations.
Regional airport offering several domestic and limited international flights; closer to Tarare than Lyon but with fewer options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residential town with a safe, community-oriented feel and good access to green spaces.
Quiet streets, local markets, and slower-paced lifestyle appealing to long-term residents and visitors seeking a relaxed stay.
Proximity to Lyon makes Tarare a practical base for those working in the region who enjoy a quieter home base.
Smaller town feel with access to regional culture and shorter trips to larger cities for study or leisure.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular activity in Beaujolais hills and surrounding countryside; scenic routes and sportive events nearby.
Common in local clubs and schools; community gatherings often revolve around matches and training.
Beaujolais and Monts du Lyonnais offer a variety of trails for all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tarare.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are commonly available in local bistros, including vegetable gratins, risottos, pasta dishes, and cheese boards; don’t hesitate to ask for substitutions or lighter preparations.