Things To Do
in Thaon-les-Vosges

Thaon-les-Vosges is a picturesque commune located in the Vosges department of northeastern France. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, charming architecture, and proximity to both nature and historical sites. The town is a gateway to the stunning Vosges Mountains, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

With a rich local culture and warm hospitality, Thaon-les-Vosges offers visitors a unique experience of French rural life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Thaon-les-Vosges
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to sample fresh produce and baked goods. Enjoy a traditional French breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely walk through the Parc de la Mairie, enjoying the local flora and fauna, and visit the Church of Saint-Étienne.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant featuring Vosges cuisine, followed by a stroll through the town square to enjoy the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure in Nature
morning
:

Hike the nearby trails of the Vosges Mountains, starting with the popular trail leading to the Col de la Schlucht for breathtaking views.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch in the mountains, then visit the nearby village of Gérardmer for its stunning lake.

evening
:

Return to Thaon-les-Vosges and enjoy a cozy dinner at a bistro, sampling local wines.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$2-$4
🍺Local Beer$4-$7
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2
🛒Groceries for a Week$50-$75

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and local cuisine.
  • Welcoming and friendly community.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • English may not be widely spoken.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est le restaurant?" - Where is the restaurant?
  • "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Thaon-les-Vosges

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc de la Mairie

A beautifully landscaped park with vibrant flowers and classic French architecture.

Vosges Mountains

Stunning panoramic views and diverse landscapes ideal for nature photography.

Church of Saint-Étienne

A historic church featuring impressive architecture that makes for a striking photo backdrop.

Culinary Guide

Food in Thaon-les-Vosges

Thaon-les-Vosges offers a delightful blend of traditional French cuisine and local specialties that reflect the region's rich culinary heritage.

Thaon-les-Vosges Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tarte aux Myrtilles

A delicious blueberry pie made with fresh local blueberries.

Must-Try!

Gâteau de Mamie

A traditional cake often made with local ingredients, embodying the homely flavors of the Vosges.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Farmers' Market

Held weekly, the market features fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and local meats.

Street Crepes

Try delicious, freshly made crepes from local street vendors, available in sweet and savory varieties.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Thaon-les-Vosges is characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall. Summers are warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with mild weather and beautiful landscapes, particularly in the fall when the leaves change color.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite greeting is important; a simple 'Bonjour' is customary when entering shops.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start, and keep your hands on the table.

Dress Code

Dress smartly, especially in restaurants; casual wear is acceptable but avoid overly casual attire.

Safety Guide

Safety

Thaon-les-Vosges is generally a safe town for tourists. However, standard precautions should be observed, such as being aware of your surroundings and securing your belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and local hospitals are equipped to handle most medical issues.

Tipping in Thaon-les-Vosges

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A tip of around 5-10% is appreciated in restaurants, although service is usually included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to carry cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather ideal for hiking and outdoor festivals, with many locals enjoying the lakes.

Autumn

Beautiful fall foliage makes for stunning landscapes, perfect for photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures with the possibility of snow, great for winter sports in the nearby mountains.

Nightlife Guide

Thaon-les-Vosges at Night

Thaon-les-Vosges offers a relaxed nightlife scene with a few local bars and bistros where you can enjoy regional wines and beers. The atmosphere is friendly, and it's common to see locals gathering for casual conversations. While there are no large nightclubs, the local bars often host live music events on weekends, providing a charming experience for visitors.

Hiking in Thaon-les-Vosges

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Crêtes

A famous hiking trail offering breathtaking views of the Vosges Mountains, suitable for experienced hikers.

Lac de Gérardmer

A scenic trail around the lake, perfect for leisurely walks and family outings.

Airports

How to reach Thaon-les-Vosges by plane.

Épinal - Mirecourt Airport

Located about 30 km from Thaon-les-Vosges, this small airport offers limited domestic flights and is the closest option for air travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

Thaon-les-Vosges is quite walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops located within a short distance of each other. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the town has a friendly atmosphere that encourages walking. However, some outdoor activities may require transportation to the trailheads.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The community is primarily made up of French-speaking locals who value their cultural heritage.

Tourists

Visitors from various regions of France and Europe come to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

A favorite pastime in the region, with many scenic routes and trails.

Skiing

During winter, the nearby Vosges Mountains attract skiing enthusiasts of all levels.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Thaon-les-Vosges is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses that connect to neighboring towns, although services may be limited on weekends. It's recommended to check schedules in advance if you plan to use public transport.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Thaon-les-Vosges.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes made with fresh local vegetables.

Gluten-Free

Certain restaurants provide gluten-free options, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Thaon-les-Vosges is adequate, with local clinics and a hospital available for emergencies. Pharmacies are also present, providing essential medications. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical costs while abroad.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide