We were thinking of stopping in Troyes on our way from Dijon to CDG Airport. Has anyone had either good or unfortunate luck in Troyes? Is a worthwhile destination? Google Maps reveals a bland architectural style in Troyes, except for the storied timbered houses. Is Troyes worth a look? And if so, please, offer some suggestions.
Posted by
L'Occitanie, France
10173 posts
I've been there a few times and found it interesting. It's worth a stop. The center has old churches, a covered market, a pedestrian area, and a palace/museum in addition to the timbered houses. It also has two of the largest discount shopping malls in Europe, the modern incarnation of the Troyes medieval fairs.
Posted by
Olympia, WA, USA
6486 posts
If you go, read (or sample) Life in a Medieval City by Frances and Joseph Gies, a wonderful portrait of Troyes and medieval life.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16893 posts
Sorry, none of the staff in this department have visited Troyes. Rick's France book pretty pointedly recommends other stops along his "Back Door Burgundy Drive" (p. 990). The co-author of this book is in Burgundy every year (and might be there right now).
Posted by
L'Occitanie, France
10173 posts
Actually, Troyes is in the Champagne region, not Burgundy. It's an hour into Champagne from the border with Burgundy. There is a striking difference in the style of the older houses, the cuisine, and the medieval art work the moment you enter Champagne. My in-laws lived in Burgundy, just over the Champagne border, so I had the opportunity to tour both areas quite a bit.