Things To Do
in Dreux

Dreux is a charming town located in the Eure-et-Loir department of France, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. It features the stunning Saint-Pierre Church and the historic Dreux Royal Chapel, which holds the tombs of the House of Orléans. The town offers a peaceful atmosphere with scenic parks and vibrant local markets.

Dreux serves as a gateway to the picturesque countryside of Normandy, making it an ideal spot for exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Dreux
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Saint-Pierre Church, admiring its beautiful stained glass windows and Gothic architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to the Dreux Royal Chapel for a guided tour to learn about the history of the House of Orléans and its royal connections.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local bistro and take a leisurely stroll through the town center to experience the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Parc des Près, where you can enjoy a peaceful morning walk or a picnic surrounded by nature.

afternoon
:

Explore the local market at Place Mésirard, where you can find fresh produce and regional delicacies.

evening
:

Finish your day with a visit to a local café for some dessert and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍰Pastry$2
🚌Local bus ticket$2
🏨Hotel night$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical sites and architecture
  • Peaceful atmosphere with beautiful parks
  • Delicious local cuisine and markets
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Public transport can be infrequent
  • Some tourist attractions may have limited hours
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
  • "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Dreux

Visit one of these nice places.

Saint-Pierre Church

Capture the stunning façade and intricate stained glass windows of this iconic landmark.

Dreux Royal Chapel

A historical site with beautiful architecture, ideal for capturing the essence of French royal heritage.

Parc des Près

A picturesque park perfect for nature photography with its lush greenery and scenic pathways.

Culinary Guide

Food in Dreux

Dreux's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional French cuisine and local specialties, making it a food lover's paradise.

Dreux Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Coq au Vin

A classic French dish made with chicken braised slowly in red wine, mushrooms, onions, and lardons.

Must-Try!

Tarte Tatin

An upside-down caramelized apple tart that is a must-try dessert when visiting the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Place Mésirard Market

A lively market held on Saturdays, featuring fresh produce, cheeses, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Dreux experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold with average temperatures around 3°C (37°F), while summers are warm, averaging 22°C (72°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months during spring and autumn. It's advisable to check the weather forecast before your trip for the best experience.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Always greet with a 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants, as politeness is highly valued.

Dining Etiquette

Keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) during meals, and wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Dress Code

Dress smartly when going out, as the French appreciate a good sense of style.

Safety Guide

Safety

Dreux is generally a safe town for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and to secure your belongings. Health services are accessible, and emergency numbers are clearly marked in public places.

Tipping in Dreux

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; leaving a small amount (5-10%) is customary for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for markets and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring parks.

Summer

Summer is warm and lively, with outdoor events and festivals, perfect for enjoying local cuisine at open-air markets.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage, and the cooler temperatures make it great for walking tours.

Winter

Winter can be cold, but the town is beautifully adorned for the holidays, offering a cozy atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Dreux at Night

Dreux has a vibrant nightlife scene with several bars and cafés that come alive in the evenings. Locals enjoy relaxing at outdoor terraces, sipping drinks while socializing. The town also hosts occasional live music events and cultural performances, providing a mix of entertainment for visitors.

Hiking in Dreux

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Cèdres

A scenic hiking trail that winds through forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Les Coteaux de la Seine

This trail features beautiful views of the Seine River and is ideal for leisurely hikes and picnics.

Airports

How to reach Dreux by plane.

Chartres - Champhol Airport

Located about 30 km from Dreux, this airport primarily serves general aviation and some regional flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Dreux is a walkable town, with most attractions located within a short distance of each other. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, featuring sidewalks, parks, and public squares that encourage walking. Exploring on foot allows visitors to fully appreciate the charming streets and local shops.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

French Locals

The majority of residents are French, with a strong sense of community and local traditions.

Expatriates

Dreux has a small community of expatriates, primarily from other European countries, contributing to the town's diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Dreux, with local clubs and community events regularly taking place.

Cycling

With its scenic routes, cycling is a favored activity among locals, especially along the Eure River.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Dreux is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses that connect to nearby towns, though schedules may vary. Biking is also a popular mode of transport, with dedicated lanes in some areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Dreux.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu beforehand.

Gluten-Free Options

Some eateries provide gluten-free alternatives, but it's best to inform the staff of any dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Dreux is accessible, with several clinics and a hospital available for emergencies. Pharmacies are also readily available for over-the-counter medications. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance to cover any medical needs.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide