The European capital of stained glass. The Champagne Cork. The home of andouillette and Chaource cheese.
You know it?! Of course we’re talking about the great, the steady, the flamboyant city of Troyes! Located just two hours from Paris, in Aube in Champagne, Troyes is the perfect place if you want to escape everyday life and plan a refreshing weekend (weekend, longer stay… even a season, go big). Dare to visit Troyes, a city rich in history and diversity! Not convinced yet? OK, let’s bring out the heavy artillery and present Troyes’ must-sees.
Explore Troyes and Its Remarkable Heritage
Exploring the rich heritage of Aube means diving headfirst into the region’s history. Shaped across the ages by styles and crafts, Troyes is full of architectural, cultural and religious gems — a mix of Renaissance and medieval legacy!
Walking through Troyes’ historic heart will take you down its narrow, characteristic streets (have you ever walked the famous Ruelle des Chats?!). You’ll then discover the colourful half-timbered houses that contribute to the region’s reputation and admire the 16th-century townhouses scattered throughout the city.
Every timber-framed façade, every winding street, every inner courtyard and every church tells a specific story and testifies to Aube’s greatness.
Because yes, the territory of Aube is rich, very rich! Its authenticity and preservation make Troyes a place where the past mixes harmoniously with the present. Not even its ten magnificent listed churches, each holding secrets and treasures, will say otherwise!
The Tourist Office also offers themed guided tours — from sporty to cultural to night visits — so you’re sure to find one that interests you.
Visit Timeless Monuments and Museums in Troyes
Talking about its remarkable heritage naturally includes Troyes’ monuments and museums — places of memory dedicated to displaying diverse works set in the heart of the city! Here are a few highlights:
A luminous and poetic place dedicated to the art of stained glass, located in the imposing Hôtel-Dieu-le-Comte in the heart of Troyes.
The Historic Apothecary of Troyes
Considered one of the most beautiful in France — here you can admire a sumptuous collection of wooden boxes and faience pots.
Continue your visit at this museum showcasing nearly 3,000 works — paintings, sculptures, drawings — shaped by two collectors, representing diverse modern art movements.
La MOPO (Maison de l’Outil et de la Pensée Ouvrière)
End your tour at the famous MOPO — the largest museum of hand-held shaping tools in the world, with around 12,000 tools from the 17th to the 19th centuries!
Factory Outlet Shopping — A Must During Your Visit to Troyes
Churches, small cobblestone streets and museums are all lovely, but it would be impossible to present Troyes’ charms without mentioning its famous outlet stores.
Troyes is home to four brand centres: Marques City, McArthurGlen, Villages de Marque (all three in Pont-Sainte-Marie) and Marques Avenue (in Saint-Julien-les-Villas). During your visit to Troyes, enjoy shopping in nearly 200 outlet boutiques at reduced prices!
Savour Aube Gastronomy During Your Visit to Troyes
Your visit isn’t over yet — it’s time to enjoy the gastronomy of the Aube in Champagne!
Taste the true andouillette of Troyes, Chaource cheese, a glass of sparkling, fruity champagne, sweet treats from the renowned pastry chef Pascal Caffet (an institution in Troyes and Meilleur Ouvrier de France), plus the famous Prunelle de Troyes!
Why choose? In Troyes, you can have it all!
The covered market Les Halles, located in the heart of Troyes, is open every day and offers local products from 35 stalls. The bonus? There’s a space to eat right there — create your menu from market purchases and enjoy it immediately!
In Troyes, many cafés and restaurants open their terraces in summer, letting you enjoy Aube’s specialities with the warmth of the sun on your skin!
Visit Troyes and Its Surroundings for Total Escape
(Re)visiting Troyes and its surroundings by bicycle, wind in your hair and free spirit is possible! Whether it’s on the Voie Verte des Grands Lacs Seine et Aube towards the magnificent Parc naturel régional de la Forêt d’Orient and its lakes, or on the greenway of the Canal de la Haute-Seine, enjoy a complete change of scenery in the heart of Champagne!
From Troyes, the bike ride to the Forêt d’Orient takes about 1h30: once there, enjoy the lakes and various water activities — kayak, sailing, jet ski, paddleboard, hydro-ULM… there’s something for all ages and desires!
If you prefer hiking or cycling in nature, explore Montaigu, which offers natural sites and stunning panoramas over Troyes and the Champagne plain: guaranteed escape!