Things To Do
in Laon
Laon is a beautiful medieval town located in the Hauts-de-France region of France. It is known for its stunning Gothic cathedral, which dominates the skyline with its impressive architecture. The town is also famous for its well-preserved medieval walls and charming cobbled streets.
Visitors can enjoy exploring the historical sites, museums, and bustling markets in Laon.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Laon, known for its remarkable Gothic architecture. Don't forget to climb up the bell tower for breathtaking views of the countryside.
After lunch at a local bistro, wander through the charming old town, taking in the medieval streets and historic buildings. Visit the Musée de Laon to learn more about the region's rich history.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a restaurant with local cuisine. Stroll through the illuminated streets and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.
Visit the ancient ramparts of Laon and stroll along the impressive fortifications that date back to the 12th century. Engage with the history that surrounds you at each viewpoint.
Stop for lunch at a cafe serving traditional French fare, then head to the Pilgrimsâ Church for a glimpse of architectural marvels. Explore the quaint shops nearby for local crafts.
Enjoy a relaxed evening with a glass of wine at a patio, watching local life unfold. Try a local dessert at one of the bakeries before calling it a night.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage, including medieval architecture and landmarks.
- Beautiful natural surroundings with scenic landscapes.
- Quieter lifestyle compared to larger cities, ideal for those seeking tranquility.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to bigger French cities.
- Limited job opportunities, particularly in specialized fields.
- Public transportation options may be less frequent or less developed.
- Fewer entertainment and cultural events compared to larger urban areas.
- Possible language barrier for non-French speakers.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with cold winters.
Best Activities in Laon
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the impressive Gothic architecture and panoramic views from the top of the cathedral.
Take a leisurely stroll along the medieval city walls for picturesque views of the surrounding area.
Enjoy a relaxing outdoor meal in this beautiful park, which also features a lake and playground.
Tours
Uncover the best of Laon with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Laon
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of the city and surrounding countryside from its high location.
A scenic walking path that provides beautiful views of Laon and its surroundings.
Historic gate with stunning views of the city and its medieval architecture.
Food in Laon
Laon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory tart made with leeks, cream, and puff pastry. It is a classic dish in Picardy cuisine, best enjoyed at Le Bistrot de la Tour.
Must-Try!
A delightful local crepe filled with ham and mushrooms, and topped with a creamy sauce. La ParenthĂšse is known for serving an exceptional Ficelle Picarde.
An iconic cheese from the region, Maroilles is a must-try for cheese enthusiasts. Sample and purchase this pungent cheese at Fromagerie Graindorge.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Laon better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Immerse yourself in the bustling Marché de Laon, where local vendors showcase an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and meats. It's an ideal place to savor the local flavors and pick up fresh ingredients.
The annual Laon Street Food Festival is a mecca for food enthusiasts, featuring a diverse range of street food stalls offering everything from regional delicacies to international flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to greet people with a handshake (for men) or a kiss on both cheeks (for women).
French people generally value their personal space, so it is important to avoid standing too close or touching others unnecessarily.
When dining in Laon, it is polite to keep your hands on the table, avoid placing elbows on the table, and wait for the host to start eating before beginning your meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Laon with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Laon
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, including Laon, tipping is not obligatory as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, it is common to leave a small amount of change or up to 10% of the total bill as a tip for exceptional service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Laon, and cash is also commonly used for smaller transactions. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular, and it is advisable to carry some cash for places that may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Laon.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit Laon, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. It's the perfect time to explore the city's gardens and enjoy outdoor activities.
Summer (June to August) is peak tourist season in Laon, with warm weather and longer daylight hours. It's a great time to visit the city's historical landmarks and enjoy outdoor events and festivals.
Autumn (September to November) brings beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures to Laon. It's a wonderful time to explore the surrounding countryside and take in the fall colors.
Winter (December to February) is a quieter time to visit Laon, with colder temperatures and occasional snowfall. It's a great time to experience the city's cozy atmosphere, visit Christmas markets, and enjoy winter sports in the nearby region.
Laon at Night
Hiking in Laon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful forest area ideal for hiking, featuring marked trails and diverse wildlife.
A scenic hill offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, with trails suitable for various skill levels.
A regional park with numerous hiking paths that showcase the natural beauty and rich history of the Aisne region.
A picturesque valley with well-maintained trails along the river, perfect for a leisurely hike.
Historical hiking trails that offer insight into the events of World War I, along with beautiful landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Laon through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Laon by plane.
Located in Roissy-en-France, approximately 180 km from Laon, it is the largest international airport in France.
Located in Zaventem, Belgium, about 150 km from Laon, it serves as a major international hub.
Located in Lille, France, approximately 130 km from Laon, it offers various international flights.
Located in Tillé, near Beauvais, approximately 120 km from Laon, it mainly serves low-cost airlines.
Located in ChĂąlons-en-Champagne, about 140 km from Laon, it serves both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Laon, comprising the local population with deep historical roots in the region.
Includes residents from other European countries, such as Belgium, Spain, and Italy, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Includes individuals from Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia, contributing to the multicultural atmosphere of Laon.
Representing a smaller community of people from various countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, adding to the demographic diversity.
Consists of individuals from countries like Syria and Lebanon, contributing to the immigration patterns in Laon.
Includes people from Asian countries, contributing to the multicultural landscape with a focus on Vietnamese and Chinese communities.
The Soul of Laon
Discover the essence of Laon through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Laon, with various local clubs and teams participating in regional leagues.
Basketball has a significant following in Laon, with community teams and youth programs encouraging participation.
Cycling is a popular sport in and around Laon, thanks to the picturesque landscapes and numerous cycling routes.
Rugby enjoys popularity in Laon, with local clubs engaged in both youth and adult competitions.
Athletics is promoted through local sports clubs, focusing on track and field events for all age groups.
Handball has a strong presence in Laon, with clubs for both men and women competing regionally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Laon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Laon's dining scene is increasingly accommodating to vegetarian and vegan diets, with many restaurants offering creative plant-based dishes. Le Central and Au Moulin des Hirondelles are known for their vegetarian-friendly menus.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities will find welcoming options at Le Jardin Gourmand, a restaurant celebrated for its delectable gluten-free offerings.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Laon with these cultural adventures.
