Things To Do
in Troyes
Troyes is a historic town in the Grand Est region of France, set on the banks of the Aube river. It is famed for one of the highest concentrations of medieval half-timbered houses in the country, earning it the nickname the city of a thousand chimneys. The city blends centuries of heritage with modern outlets, museums, and a flourishing craft scene, especially around its famous stock-outlet shopping.
Visitors can wander its narrow lanes, sample local specialties such as Andouillette de Troyes and fouace, and enjoy relaxed strolls along the canals and barges that line the historic core.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local boulangerie, where you can savor flaky croissants and rich coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of the historic center, admiring the half-timbered houses that date back to the Middle Ages. Don’t forget to visit the stunning Cathedral of Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul, where you can appreciate its impressive stained-glass windows.
In the afternoon, explore the Musée d'Art Moderne, which houses an extensive collection of 19th and 20th-century art. After immersing yourself in culture, enjoy lunch at a charming café, sampling regional dishes such as andouillette or a fresh salad au chèvre chaud. Spend the rest of your afternoon wandering through the Place Alexandre Thierry, where you can relax and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
As the sun sets, dine at a traditional French restaurant where you can relish a gourmet meal paired with local Champagne. After dinner, take a romantic stroll along the Seine River, enjoying the twinkling lights reflecting off the water. Conclude your evening at a cozy wine bar, indulging in a glass of local wine while listening to live music.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast featuring local cheeses and fresh baguettes, fueling up for an exciting day ahead. Head out to the nearby Champagne region, where you will visit some of the most renowned Champagne houses for a guided tour. Learn about the intricate process of Champagne production and the history that shapes this famous beverage.
After the morning tour, enjoy a tasting session where you can sample various Champagne styles paired with artisanal cheese. For lunch, savor a picnic in the vineyards with picturesque views, surrounded by rows of grapevines basking in the sun. Following lunch, visit a smaller, family-owned Champagne house to experience a more intimate setting and gain insight into traditional methods.
Return to Troyes in the evening and enjoy dinner at a local bistro that specializes in pairing food with Champagne. Immerse yourself in the local culture with a traditional French meal that showcases seasonal ingredients. As the night draws in, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, appreciating the charm of Troyes after dark.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🧀Cheese and groceries | $10-25 |
| 🚆Public transit single ride | $2-3 |
| 🎟️Movie ticket | $10-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich medieval architecture and photo opportunities around every corner
- Excellent value shopping via local outlets and markets
- Compact center that is easy to walk and explore on foot
- Accessible day trips to forests and lakes in the surrounding countryside
- Limited upscale nightlife and some tourist services outside peak season
- Outpatient dining options can be meat-heavy; vegetarians should plan ahead
- Rail connections to far-away regions require a connection in Paris
- Some remote attractions require a car for full convenience
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est… ?" - Where is…?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Troyes
Visit one of these nice places.
A concentration of medieval timber-framed houses in the core of Troyes, perfect for architectural photography, especially at dawn or dusk when light plays on the beams.
A picturesque square framed by historic buildings and narrow lanes, ideal for street photography and candid shots of daily life.
Reflections on calm water and braided water channels create serene compositions, especially with a camera on a low angle.
Quaint courtyards and tightly packed façades offer intimate shots of texture, color, and urban history.
Food in Troyes
Troyes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A distinctive pork sausage grilled and served with onions, often accompanied by mustard and potatoes.
Must-Try!
A soft, slightly sweet bread or brioche typical to the region, enjoyed on its own or with savory toppings.
A richly spiced honey cake that’s a regional specialty, great with tea or coffee.
Pink almond pralines used to decorate pastries and desserts; a sweet regional hallmark.
A dessert tart featuring crushed praline and a creamy filling; a favorite end to a meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic indoor market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, charcuterie, and seasonal specialties.
Outdoor stalls around the old town where you can try quick bites, pastries, and regional snacks during market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say bonjour when entering shops and restaurants; a polite hello sets a positive tone for interactions.
Maintain a respectful tone in public spaces; avoid loud conversations, especially in churches and quiet streets.
Use both hands for meals when appropriate; keep hands visible; wait for everyone to be served before starting.
Safety
Tipping in Troyes
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is usually included (service compris) in restaurants, commonly around 15%. Extra tipping is appreciated for exceptional service, particularly in more casual eateries.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, including contactless payments. Cash is still handy for markets or smaller establishments; keep small bills for tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming flowers in parks; great for walking tours and outdoor markets. Pack a light jacket for chilly mornings.
Warm to hot days; enjoy long evenings, outdoor dining, and bustling markets. Stay hydrated and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage; ideal for photography and street strolling; markets return with harvest goods.
Cool to cold with possible rain or frost; Christmas markets add a festive atmosphere. Dress warmly and plan indoor museum visits for comfort.
Troyes at Night
Hiking in Troyes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive forest and lakes offering hiking, cycling, and scenery; ideal for day trips and longer excursions.
Gentle rural trails through apple orchards and village lanes; perfect for easy hikes and scenic photography.
Airports
How to reach Troyes by plane.
Major international hub about 150-170 km from Troyes; good for international arrivals with rail or road connections to Troyes.
Another major airport serving international and domestic flights, within a similar distance as CDG; convenient onward rail links.
A smaller regional airport near Troyes used primarily for general aviation and occasional shuttle services.
A regional airport in the Champagne region, about 100-150 km away, serving low-cost and charter flights depending on season.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of residents are families and professionals; the city offers family-friendly museums and parks.
Numerous educational institutions bring a student presence, especially in the city center and around university campuses.
A comfortable city with a slower pace and cultural activities that appeal to retirees.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The city’s professional team; local matches are a popular social event and a good way to experience regional sports culture.
A popular pastime with routes around the countryside and nearby forests; ideal for day trips.
A traditional French pastime enjoyed in parks and squares during warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Troyes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many bistros and markets offer vegetable-forward dishes, cheese plates, and grain-based bowls. When ordering, ask for ‘sans viande’ and note that some dishes may include lardons or meat stock; request vegetable stock or olive oil-based preparations when available.