If arriving in the afternoon or evening, please allow an extra day to visit the many interesting sites in Le Puy, and to climb to its viewpoints.
Traffic in the new town can be moderate to heavy, but you can walk your bike for the short distances on the sidewalks. In the old city, traffic is usually light. Pilgrims may obtain their passports at the welcome center behind the Cathedral in the sacristy/store during the following hours:
AVRIL – MAY- JUNE
Every Day
from 10h00 to 12h00
from 14h00 to 18h00
JULY – AUGUST
Every Day from 10h00 to 18h00
SEPTEMBER
Every Day
from 10h00 to 12h00
from 14h00 to 18h00
OCTOBER AND MARCH
Every Day
from 10h00 to 12h00
from15h00 to 17h00
NOVEMBER to FEBRUARY
Saturday and Sunday and
Every Day during School Vacation
from 10h00 to 12h00
from 15h00 to 17h00
Closed in January
Leave your bike at your hotel or lodging, and be sure to visit the Cathedral*** and its treasury** displayed in the Sacristy, and the Cathedral’s cloister** and the treasury** of the cloister. Also be sure and visit the Chapel Saint Michel d’Aiguilhe**, built on a volcanic needle in either the year 951 or 962 (and rebuilt in the late 11th century). This is located in an attractive neighborhood, which after walking up a hill requires climbing 267 steps; the stained-glass windows are new but very attractive. The feeling of the chapel is wonderful, and so is the view from its entry. If you have time, you might climb up to the towering statue of Notre Dame de France for an even better view*.
Explore the old town, and while you are at it, you might reconnoiter the street by which you will be departing the next morning. The gardens in the new town and the Museum Crozatier (with its examples of old lace) are pleasant. Beware of the lace (dentelle) sold in the town. Much of it is imported from China and is available back home for a better price; but after some inquiries and practice you will be able to spot handmade pieces of lace, smaller and courser, local to Le Puy. If you are interested in this art form, you might wish to visit the National Conservatory of Le Puy lace, located in the old town. Le Puy lace is bobbin lace (as opposed to needle lace).
If you have not already done so, buy the Miam Miam Dodo volumes you will need and other books and provisions.