Limoges City Guide

Try Limousin beef, clafoutis, and tourtous for local flavor. Most food is French, but some international spots exist. Plant-based options are on the rise, but may take searching. Restaurants stay open late only in main areas.

Nightlife is low-key, focused on bars and pubs, not clubs. Central Limoges has enough options for an evening out.

Cafés are common and the city has a few specialty coffee shops. The scene is smaller than in Paris, but quality options exist.

A service charge is already in bills, so tipping is not required. If you want to leave extra, round up or add a few euros for good service.

You can buy SIM cards at Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile stores in the city center or some supermarkets. Bring your passport for registration.

Limoges is tidy with efficient public services. Streets and parks are well-kept.

Most shops and services close in the evening. Late-night food is limited to a few places in the center. Pharmacies take turns for night service.

Larger supermarkets offer a decent selection, but imported items are fewer than in bigger cities. The main supermarkets are Carrefour, Leclerc, and Auchan. Les Halles Centrales is a good spot for fresh food and local products.

Cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants. Bring some cash for small purchases and markets.

ATMs are easy to find around banks and shopping areas. International cards work, but some banks charge fees.

The city has many French public schools. International school options using English are limited.

There isn’t a big digital nomad presence, but some independent workers can be found. Regular meetups and co-living options are rare.

Several big parks and the river area give residents good access to greenery.

Good paths along the river and in city parks. Air is clean and it’s usually safe to run.

Several gym chains operate in town, with day passes and monthly rates available.

Several clubs offer tennis courts. You often need to book in advance.

Padel courts are becoming more common, available through some sports clubs.

A handful of studios offer regular classes. Drop-ins are likely but check for instruction in English if needed.

Judo, karate, and boxing clubs can be found in town.

No ski resorts nearby. The closest slopes are in the Massif Central, a few hours away.

Kayaking and paddleboarding are possible on the Vienne River and at Lac de Saint-Pardoux. Rentals are available mostly in summer.

Limoges is not near the sea, so there is no surfing.

No diving or snorkeling options. Limoges is inland.

The main hospital is CHU Limoges, with smaller clinics around town. Staff may speak English in some areas, but it's not a guarantee. Pharmacies have a green cross sign and can help with minor issues.

Tap water is safe to drink everywhere in the city.

Parks, playgrounds, and a few animal attractions make Limoges good for families. Supplies for children and babies are easy to get, but family-specific facilities are less visible.

Limoges is generally safe for LGBTQ+ people. Visible scene is small but discrimination risks are low.

Dogs are welcome in most parks. Pet supplies and veterinary care are easy to find. Some hotels and cafés accept pets, but check ahead.