Looking to explore the Paris region? We don’t often think of visiting Aube, a region that’s rich in heritage and activities! Would you like to?
Less than two hours’ drive from Paris, why not consider a visit to Aube? Home to one of France’s leading regional nature parks, the Aube department remains very attached to its traditions and heritage. In this historic Champagne-producing region, you’ll find plenty of Champagne-related tourist routes.
Half-timbered houses, hiking trails and a gastronomic heritage centered around champagne and local produce are just some of the reasons to discover Aube.
From Troyes to the small villages of the Aube and its green spaces, you’ll never be bored in the Aube! Eco-enthusiasts, gourmets, families, backpackers: pack your bags! It’s time to discover the 11 must-do things to do in Aube.
1. Troyes
The narrow streets of Troyes
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Kiev.Victor
A city of Art and History, you’ll love strolling through the narrow streets of Troyes! Troyes is one of the must-sees on your Aube tour itinerary. Its historic center bears the evocative name of the « Bouchon de Champagne » district, in the shape of a Champagne cork. It is divided into what was once a Jewish quarter and a goldsmiths’ quarter. Take a stroll among its facades and small cafés: a real village atmosphere reigns!
Don‘t miss the Jardin Juvenal des Ursins and the Maison de l’Orfèvre with its round turret.
While you’re in the city center, take the opportunity to visit the Hôtel de Vauluisant, home to two museums, the Place de la Libération and the famous Halles de Troyes, where you’ll find many tasty local specialties.
Trojan museums
Musée de Vauluisant, Troyes – Photo credit: Shutterstock – Fabianodp
Downtown Troyen boasts a number of fascinating museums. Among them, the famous Maison de l’Outil et de la Pensée Ouvrière offers curious visitors a collection of tools and introduces them to numerous craft techniques. A must-see museum in Aube for all DIY enthusiasts!
The Cité du Vitrail is another interesting museum where you can not only admire the colors of stained glass, but also learn about the techniques used to create it.
Also worth a visit: the Musée d’Art Moderne, offering a complete panorama of this art form.
Troyes factory outlets
Factory outlets – MacArthurglen, Troyes – Photo credit: Shutterstock – Facebook: McArthurGlen Troyes
Aside from its historical appeal, Troyes is famous for its many factory outlets, where you can shop while saving your wallet! But before we give you the right addresses, let’s take a look at a little history. As far back as the 18th century, Troyes was the European capital of hosiery.
During this period, the Champagne fairs enjoyed unprecedented economic influence, enabling the textile industry to develop well into the 20th century. It was against this backdrop that the concept of factory outlets was born in Troyes in the 1960s.
Initially reserved for factory employees, these centers were opened to the general public in the 1970s. Today, Troyes boasts three major outlet centers: Mac Arthur Glen, Marques City and Marques Avenue. The latter is located in Saint-Julien-les-Villas. Between them, they house over a hundred discount stores. Bargains at your fingertips!
2. Forêt d’Orient Regional Nature Park
Foret d’Orient lake, Troyes – Photo credit: Shutterstock – Facebook: Durstjaz
Covering more than 80,000 hectares, the Forêt d’Orient Regional Nature Park is the green lung of the Aube region, bringing together 58 communes. A range of landscapes to make you dizzy! It’s a must-see in the Aube region for any visitor who appreciates quiet green spaces and places to recharge their batteries.
Three of Champagne’s great lakes are located within the park’s boundaries: Lac d’Orient, Lac du Temple and Lac Amance, where you can enjoy a wide range of water sports. Discover Champagne’s astonishing flora and fauna on foot or by bike along the Vélovoie des Lacs, a 42-kilometre green trail.
In Brienne-la-Vieille, you can also visit the Ecomusée de la Forêt d’Orient. Featuring an astonishing collection of farming equipment and beautiful reconstructions, it will show you how rural life used to be.
3. Nigloland
Photo credit: Wikipedia – Superjuju10
In the town of Dolancourt, 45 minutes from Troyes, you’ll come across an amusement park that’s well known in the region: Nigloland! Behind this eccentric name lies the story of two brothers and former showmen, Patrice and Philippe Gélis. They inaugurated the park in 1987. Today, located in the heart of the Forêt d’Orient protected area, it is divided into four themed zones.
The park is a generalist attraction, offering thrills and spills as well as family activities and rides for toddlers. A must-see stop in the Aube region, especially if you’re traveling with children.
4. Renoir family home
House of Pierre-Auguste Renoir – Photo credit: Flickr –
Voyages etc…
In the far south-east of the département, the charming little village of Essoyes hides a well-kept secret. It’s the family home of the famous painter Renoir, born in 1841 and a leading figure in the French Impressionist movement. Renoir’s paintings include Bal du Moulin de la Galette and Déjeuner des Canotiers.
The house has been completely restored in the 1900 style and opened to the public. The permanent exhibition in the house allows you to discover the life of the painter and his family. A temporary exhibition on the theme of art and an audiovisual show complete the picture.
A nice little visit to Aube!
5. Champagne Tourist Route
Champagne vineyards, Route des Bar – Photo credit: Shutterstock – Facebook: FreeProd33
On the Côte des Bar south of Troyes, enjoy the sparkling bubbles of Champagne in a whole new way! From Bar-sur-Aube to Essoyes, via Les Riceys, discover the noble grape varieties typical of the Aube region, such as pinot noir, pinot meunier and chardonnay.
The winegrower partners of the Route Touristique de Champagne will welcome you to their estates to explain the champagne-making process. Of course, the Aube Touristic Route is also a great opportunity to taste fine bubbles!
6. Learn craft techniques at the Dosches mill
Photo credit: Wikipedia – Tangopaso
As mentioned above, visiting Aube is a fun way to learn more about French craftsmanship! The Moulin de Dosches is no exception. Erected in 2007 by a small group of enthusiasts, its vocation is to recreate and promote a traditional know-how that is fast disappearing. The site, managed by an association, comprises a mill, a barn, a bakehouse and a garden.
Overlooking a small village in the Champagne region, it’s an opportunity to take a closer look at the journey of a grain of wheat from the millstone to the baker’s oven.
Bonus: you can also take the opportunity to discover permaculture by visiting his ecological vegetable garden.
7. Camille Claudel Museum
Photo credit : Flickr –
Jean-Pierre Dalbéra
Nogent-sur-Seine is home to a museum dedicated to the life of sculptor Camille Claudel. It was in this town that she discovered her vocation. The young girl developed a passion for modeling at an early age in a region that was home to many potters.
This small museum showcases the work of four sculptors: Marius Ramus, Paul Dubois, Camille Claudel and her mentor Alfred Boucher. Through her work, discover the sensibility of an artist influenced by an eventful life.
8. Brisatte Botanical Garden
Photo credit: Wikipedia – Mairie de Mesnil saint Loup
In Mesnil-Saint-Loup, this lovely garden in the Aube region offers a magical moment for all visitors. Young and old alike can come and learn about the 440 or so plant species in superb bloom in spring and summer.
Take advantage of this Mesnil walk to visit the town’s parish church, chapel and monastery!
9. Chaource
Photo credit: Shutterstock – cynoclub
In the commune of Chaource, birthplace of the famous cheese of the same name, treat yourself to a little gastronomic escapade. First, the Musée du Fromage will open its doors to teach you all about the art of cheese production. From churns and skimmers to milk pumps, you’ll learn all about it!
Afterwards, stop off at the Fromagerie de Mussy, where you’ll learn all about the making of the famous Chaource cheese. They’ll also introduce you to other creamy specialties such as Délice de Mussy. You’ll be able to leave with your pockets full as you indulge yourself in their artisanal boutique. An original place to visit in Aube!
10. Other things to see and do in Aube
Photo credit: pikist.com
Champagne Nights Festival
Every year in October, Troyes welcomes some 2,000 festival-goers and changes its face for five days. Created in 1988 on the initiative of the city of Troyes, this festival puts the spotlight on chanson à texte and the profession of songwriter. The entire city is transformed into an artistic meeting place.
Timber-framed churches
In the north-east of the département, you can admire an architectural curiosity typical of the Champagne region. In the communes of Lentilles, Bailly le Franc or Longsols, these half-timbered constructions made of wood and cob will amaze your eyes. A must-see in Aube!
How do I get to Aube?
Less than 200 kilometers from Paris, Aube is easily accessible by various means of transport.
By plane
The easiest way to get to Aube by plane is to land at Paris-Vatry airport, 65 kilometers from Troyes. Alternatively, you can book a flight to another Paris airport. After all, the capital is less than two hours’ drive from Aube’s capital! To find the best route, use a flight comparator like Skyscanner.
By train
If you prefer the rail route, you can easily visit Aube by train. Troyes has regular connections with Paris, Dijon and other towns in the Grand Est region. By car, too!
Taking the car
The A5 freeway is a great way to get to Aube, no matter where you’re coming from! The presence of several national roads also facilitates mobility in the département. Take the N4, for example. If the car isn’t the most comfortable mode of transport, it’s almost obligatory if you’re planning to leave Troyes. For sustainable travel, don’t hesitate to carpool!
By bus
Several bus companies run services to and from the department’s main towns, including Troyes. Most places of interest can therefore be reached by public transport at a modest cost.
Where to stay in Aube?
A little-known destination, yet full of surprises and rich in historical heritage, Aube boasts a wealth of tourist accommodation. To find the one that’s right for you, why not use a hotel comparator?
If, all things considered, you’d prefer to rent a property from a private individual, take a look at Airbnb. In every corner of the Aube region, you’ll find some of the most exotic accommodations around!
Map of hotels and accommodation – Grand Est