This beautiful town in the Grand Est region charms large numbers of visitors who flock to the historic capital of southern Champagne. Its historic centre is distinguished by its champagne cork shape, a characteristic that Troyes owes to the ancient ramparts that once protected the town.
Stroll between the traditional, magnificent half-timbered buildings whose walls come in a beautiful palette of red, yellow, white... Between these charming dwellings are secret passages and narrow cobbled streets, like the famous Ruelle des Chats, offering delightful urban walks. For instance, we recommend a wander along the promenade by the Seine, where you can admire elegant statues like the Heart of Troyes. The latter stands 3.5 metres tall and is surrounded by imposing water jets. Other ancient sculptures and windows adorning the monuments bear witness to the important legacy of the master glassmakers and sculptors from the School of Troyes. The Gothic Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul, 114 metres long, is illustrious proof of this: it represents all the styles of the Gothic art and is adorned with 182 stained glass windows, or 1,500 m² of magnificent glass from the 13th to 19th centuries, bathing its interior in exceptional light!
The architectural opulence of Troyes' town centre immerses us in its glorious past, particularly that of the textile industries: the old factories clad in red bricks have kept their original façades and have now been converted into housing. This aesthetic combining various materials such as cast iron and glass echoes that of Troyes' covered market, inspired by the Halles de Paris. The outside walls are adorned with columns, each one featuring a cast iron lion's head, and the whole complex is covered by a huge metal roof frame. It is well worth stepping inside this immense building erected in 1876, to stock up on local produce at the market!
The city also has cultural visitor attractions such as the Museum of Tools and Workers' Thought, containing a vast collection of old hand tools. A fine example of the region's craftsmanship! Other places such as the Saint-Loup Museum, dedicated to Fine Arts, archaeology and natural history; the Historical Museum of Troyes and Champagne and the Hosiery Museum, both housed in the elegant Vauluisant mansion; and the Museum of Modern Art in the former episcopal palace make for a wonderful visitor experience.
Finally, to complement this urban tour, enjoy an outing in the surrounding area by travelling along the Greenway. On foot or by bike, it will take you straight to the countryside around Troyes, from the middle of the forested areas to the surrounding lakes, including the famous Lake Orient (Lac d'Orient). Shopaholics and bargain-hunters will enjoy a trip to one of the town's many factory outlet stores.
