Things To Do
in Laon

Striking Gothic façade, flying buttresses and stained glass; best at golden hour or lit at night for dramatic shots.

Panoramic views over the Aisne plains—ideal for sunrise/sunset landscapes and wide vistas.

Narrow cobbled alleys, colorful shutters and historic doorways offer atmospheric street-level compositions.

Several spots on the hill provide sweeping views of Laon and the surrounding countryside—great for wide-angle photos.

Held in and around the town on several market days (check local schedule), this market sells seasonal fruit, vegetables, cheeses, charcuterie and baked goods—ideal for picnic supplies.

Street-food style options include fresh baguettes, croissants, quiches and savory pastries—perfect for a casual lunch while exploring.

Always greet shopkeepers and service staff with 'Bonjour' (or 'Bonsoir' in the evening) when entering and 'Au revoir' when leaving—this is considered polite.

Try basic French phrases; even simple attempts at the language are appreciated. Use formal 'vous' with strangers unless invited to use 'tu.'

Keep hands visible on the table, avoid loud phone conversations in cafés, and wait for the host to start eating in formal situations.

Observe signage at churches and memorials—dress modestly in religious sites and maintain respectful behavior at war memorials.

Service is usually included in restaurant bills as 'service compris'; leaving small change or rounding up for exceptional service is appreciated but not required. Tip taxi drivers or hotel porters a few euros for helpful service.

Credit and debit cards (CB, Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in shops and restaurants, though small vendors and markets may prefer cash. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly common; carry some euros for markets and rural purchases.

Mild days and blooming countryside make spring a pleasant time to visit; markets become livelier and outdoor cafés reopen. Occasional rain is possible—bring layers and a light raincoat.

Warm and generally sunny, summer is ideal for walking, biking and outdoor terraces; towns can be quiet in the afternoon on hot days as locals rest. Book accommodations early for peak weeks (July/August).

Crisp air and colorful foliage highlight the surrounding hills and forests; harvest and food festivals can appear in nearby villages. Layers work well as temperatures vary.

Cold and occasionally snowy; the cathedral and historic center are atmospheric in winter light, but some rural attractions may have reduced services. Pack warm clothing and waterproof footwear.

Short urban trails along the ramparts for panoramic views and historical interpretation—easy walks suitable for most visitors.

A network of forest paths offering longer hikes, varied terrain and good birdwatching; accessible by short drive from Laon.

Historic route with marked paths and memorial sites—combines history with outdoor walking across rolling ridges.

Flat, easy walking or cycling along canal towpaths and rural lanes—ideal for leisurely half-day outings and picnics.

Major international airport about 1–1.5 hours by car (approx. 120–140 km) or reachable by regional rail and transfer—best option for international flights.

Low-cost carrier airport used for budget international flights; roughly 90–120 km away depending on route—useful for budget travelers but expect longer transfer times.

Smaller airport serving regional connections and occasional charters; around 60–80 km from Laon and convenient for visits to the Champagne area.

Larger regional airport with domestic and European links, approximately 120–150 km to Laon—accessible by car or rail connections.