Troyes, located in the Champagne region of France, is a charming city with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and half-timbered houses, Troyes offers a delightful blend of historical sites, art, shopping, and culinary delights. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Troyes:
1. Old Town (Vieille Ville)
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Start your exploration of Troyes in the Old Town, where you’ll find a maze of narrow streets lined with stunning timber-framed houses. Take a leisurely stroll and admire the well-preserved architecture that dates back to the 16th century.
2. Troyes Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul de Troyes)
Visit the impressive Troyes Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Marvel at its stunning stained glass windows and the intricate details of the interior. Don’t miss the opportunity to climb the bell tower for panoramic views of the city.
3. Museum of Modern Art (Musée d’Art Moderne de Troyes)
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Art enthusiasts should not miss the Museum of Modern Art, which houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. From paintings and sculptures to installations and photography, the museum offers a diverse range of artistic expressions.
4. Museum of Tools and Crafts (Musée des Outils et des Métiers)
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Discover the fascinating history of craftsmanship at the Museum of Tools and Crafts. Explore the extensive collection of tools used by various trades throughout the centuries and gain insights into the traditional techniques that shaped the region’s industries.
5. Hôtel de Vauluisant
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Step inside the beautifully restored Hôtel de Vauluisant, a 16th-century mansion, and explore its elegant courtyard and grand rooms. The building now houses the Troyes Tourist Office and provides information about the city and its attractions.
6. Troyes Champagne Tour
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Immerse yourself in the world of Champagne with a visit to one of the many Champagne houses in Troyes. Take a guided tour to learn about the Champagne-making process, from vineyards to cellars, and indulge in tastings of this renowned sparkling wine.
7. Factory Outlet Shopping
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Troyes is famous for its factory outlet stores, where you can find a wide range of discounted designer clothing, shoes, and accessories. Head to the McArthurGlen Troyes outlet village or the Marques Avenue outlet for a rewarding shopping experience.
8. Sainte-Madeleine Church
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Admire the Romanesque beauty of Sainte-Madeleine Church, known for its intricate sculptures and impressive stained glass windows. Take a moment to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and appreciate the architectural marvels of this historical gem.
9. Maison de l’Outil et de la Pensée Ouvrière
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Delve into the world of craftsmanship and working-class history at the Maison de l’Outil et de la Pensée Ouvrière. This museum showcases a vast collection of tools while highlighting the importance of manual labor and its impact on society.
10. Local Gastronomy
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Indulge in the flavors of the region by sampling the local cuisine. Troyes is renowned for its Andouillette sausages, Chaource cheese, and Rosé des Riceys wine. Visit the city’s restaurants, bistros, and brasseries to savor these culinary delights.
11. Ruelle des Chats
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Explore the enchanting Ruelle des Chats (Alley of Cats), a narrow lane adorned with charming cat sculptures perched on windowsills and rooftops. This whimsical alley is a delightful spot for a photo opportunity and a chance to immerse yourself in the city’s artistic spirit.
12. Saint-Urbain Basilica
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Pay a visit to the Saint-Urbain Basilica, an impressive church known for its distinctive stained glass windows depicting scenes from the Bible. The basilica’s architecture and serene atmosphere make it a serene place for contemplation.
13. Musee Saint-Loup
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Delve into the history and archaeology of Troyes at the Musee Saint-Loup. The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, ranging from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages. Discover ancient Roman remains, medieval sculptures, and historical artworks that shed light on the city’s past.
14. Les Halles de Troyes
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Experience the lively atmosphere of Les Halles, Troyes’ central market. Browse the stalls offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and regional specialties. It’s a great place to sample regional cheeses, charcuterie, and freshly baked bread.
15. Nigloland
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If you’re traveling with family or seeking some adventure, make a short trip to Nigloland, a nearby amusement park. Enjoy thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and themed areas suitable for all ages. Nigloland provides a fun-filled day for both kids and adults.
16. Canal de la Haute-Seine
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Take a relaxing stroll along the Canal de la Haute-Seine, which runs through Troyes. Admire the picturesque scenery, charming bridges, and serene waterways. You can also rent a bike or a boat to explore the canal at your leisure.
17. Troyes Champagne Vineyards
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Venture outside the city to explore the stunning Champagne vineyards that surround Troyes. Take a guided tour to learn about the winemaking process, visit prestigious vineyards, and enjoy tastings of Champagne produced in this renowned region.
18. Fountains of Troyes
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Discover the many fountains scattered throughout Troyes, each with its unique design and history. The most famous is the Fontaine de la Place Jean Jaurès, a striking fountain with intricate sculptures and water features. These fountains add charm and character to the city’s public spaces.
19. Golf de l’Ermitage
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If you enjoy golfing, head to Golf de l’Ermitage, an 18-hole golf course located in a serene countryside setting. Challenge yourself on the well-maintained greens and enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes.
20. Cultural Events
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Check the local event calendar for cultural festivals, exhibitions, and performances taking place during your visit. Troyes hosts various events throughout the year, including music festivals, art exhibitions, and theatrical productions, offering an opportunity to engage with the local arts and culture scene
21. Parc de la Gare
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Take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle and relax at Parc de la Gare. This beautiful park offers a tranquil setting with lush green spaces, flower beds, and a picturesque pond. Enjoy a leisurely walk, have a picnic, or simply sit and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
22. Maison du Boulanger
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Step into the Maison du Boulanger, a historic building that now serves as a center for cultural events. Attend a concert, theater performance, or art exhibition, and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant arts scene.
23. Les Trésors de Champagne
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Indulge in a memorable Champagne tasting experience at Les Trésors de Champagne. This wine cellar offers a wide selection of Champagne from local producers, allowing you to sample and learn about different varieties and flavors.
24. La Maison de l’Outre-Forêt
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If you’re interested in regional folklore and traditions, visit La Maison de l’Outre-Forêt. This museum showcases the customs, arts, and crafts of the Aube region, providing insight into the local heritage and way of life.
25. Escape Game Troyes
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Put your problem-solving skills to the test at Escape Game Troyes. Choose from a variety of immersive escape room experiences, where you and your group must work together to solve puzzles and unravel mysteries within a set time limit.
26. Espace Argence
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Catch a performance or a cultural event at Espace Argence, a modern venue that hosts concerts, plays, dance performances, and art exhibitions. Check the schedule during your visit to see what exciting events are taking place.
27. Champagne Cellars
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Venture beyond Troyes and explore the Champagne cellars in the surrounding countryside. Visit renowned Champagne houses like Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, or Pommery, and take guided tours that provide insights into the Champagne-making process and the history of these prestigious brands.
28. Les Lavoirs
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Discover the historical communal washhouses, known as “lavoirs,” which were once important gathering places for locals to do laundry and socialize. Troyes has several beautifully restored lavoirs, such as the Lavoir de la Petite Maillerie and the Lavoir de l’Étoile, where you can appreciate the architectural charm and learn about their historical significance.
29. Les Grands Magasins
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Experience the city’s vibrant shopping scene by exploring Les Grands Magasins, a collection of large department stores located in the heart of Troyes. These stores offer a wide range of fashion, home goods, and specialty items, making them a perfect destination for retail therapy.
Places and Things To Do
