Things to Do in Troyes: A Guide to the 6 Must-See Spots

The medieval heart of Troyes, with its 16th-century half-timbered houses and cobblestone alleys, is a true fairy-tale setting.

• Colorful 16th-century half-timbered houses
• Ruelle des Chats, picturesque and photogenic
• Nicknamed the "Bouchon de Champagne"
• Place Alexandre-Israël and the City Hall square

You can explore the historic center on foot. As you wander through Ruelle des Chats, you'll understand why this alley is famous: its houses are so close that cats can jump from one roof to another. Rue Émile-Zola, which is wider, is the main shopping street with boutiques and restaurants. Don't miss Place Alexandre-Israël and the City Hall square, as well as the Cour du Mortier d'Or. The neighborhood owes its nickname 'Bouchon de Champagne' to its shape, which evokes a bottle cork. The half-timbered houses, many dating back to the 16th century, have been restored and display vibrant colors. It’s an ideal place for a morning walk before the crowds arrive.

A Gothic masterpiece with some of the most beautiful stained glass in France, the cathedral dominates Place Saint-Pierre.

• Construction from the 13th to the 17th century
• 1,500 m2 of original stained glass ranging from the 13th to the 19th century
• Treasury including an enamel shrine visible during guided tours
• Free admission, open Tuesday to Sunday

Saint Peter and Saint Paul Cathedral impresses with its sculpted facade and high vaults. Its construction began in the 13th century and was completed in the 17th, which explains its blend of classic and flamboyant Gothic styles. The stained glass, covering about 1,500 m2, is among the most remarkable in France, featuring pieces from the Renaissance and the 19th century. The treasury holds an incredibly fine enamel shrine, accessible only during scheduled guided tours. Entry to the cathedral is free; hours vary by season, but it is typically open Tuesday through Sunday. It is located on Place Saint-Pierre, right in the center, a stone's throw from the Museum of Modern Art.

The oldest church in Troyes, it houses a stone rood screen that is unique in France.

• Construction from the 12th to the 16th century (Gothic style)
• Stone lace rood screen, a masterpiece of flamboyant Gothic
• 16th-century stained glass illustrating the talent of local master glassmakers
• Free access, hours vary by season

Sainte-Madeleine Church is distinguished by its rood screen (jubé), a finely carved stone gallery that once separated the choir from the nave. This rood screen is considered one of the most beautiful in France, a rare example of Gothic stone lace. The church was built between the 12th and 16th centuries, which is reflected in its composite architecture. The stained glass windows, mostly from the 16th century, testify to the work of the region's master glassmakers. Entry is free. It is located at 94 rue Général de Gaulle, just a few minutes from the cathedral and the historic center.

Located in the former bishop's palace, it features a rich collection of Impressionist and contemporary works.

• Pierre and Denise Lévy donation, opened in 1982
• Works by Derain, Modigliani, Braque, Bonnard, Picasso
• Fauvism and Cubism movements represented
• Glass art collection

The Museum of Modern Art occupies the former bishop's palace, facing the cathedral. It owes its collection to the generous donation of Pierre and Denise Lévy in 1982. The bright rooms trace the history of art from the late 19th to the 20th century, with an emphasis on Fauvism and Cubism. You can admire paintings by Derain, Modigliani, Braque, Bonnard, and Picasso. A section is dedicated to glass art, linked to the glassmaking tradition of the Champagne region. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm. A guided tour allows you to better understand the artistic movements.

A 19th-century covered market, inspired by the Halles of Paris, where you can find the best local products from the Champagne region.

• 19th-century iron, glass, and cast-iron architecture
• Local products: andouillette, Chaource, chocolate, fruits, vegetables
• Friendly atmosphere from the early morning
• Gastronomic events year-round

The Halles of Troyes are the meeting place for gourmets and curious visitors. Built in the 19th century, they were inspired by Victor Baltard's famous Halles of Paris. Under a structure of iron and glass, local producers set up at dawn. You'll find andouillette de Troyes, Chaource cheese, artisanal pastries, and of course, chocolates from Maison Caffet. The atmosphere is warm, and the merchants are happy to share their advice. The market is held on rue Claude Huez, right in the center. It also hosts gastronomic events throughout the year.

A few miles from Troyes, this vast artificial lake offers an ideal setting for a bike ride or a nature day with the family.

• 75 km cycling loop around the lake (approx. 3h30)
• Lakes Greenway (Vélovoie des Lacs), safe and flat route
• Viewpoints on the Mesnil-Saint-Père dike
• Bird and deer watching in the Orient forest

Lake Orient is a popular spot for a stroll among locals. A complete circuit by bike is 75 km, with an elevation gain of 330 meters, accessible to all thanks to the Lakes Greenway that connects Troyes to the lake. The start is in Troyes, and the route is flat and well-marked. Along the way, you cross the Orient forest, a nature reserve where you can spot birds and deer. Stops are possible at the port of Mesnil-Saint-Père, at the developed beach, or at the village of Lusigny-sur-Barse with its modern sculptures. Restaurants and outdoor cafes allow you to eat around the lake.