Provins Travel Guide

Explore the beautiful town of Provins with our comprehensive travel guide, including a list of places to visit, must-try dishes, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Provins

Provins is a beautiful town located in Île-de-France, France, known for its rich history and culture. The town was once a major trading center during the Middle Ages and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors to Provins will be astonished by its remarkable architecture and picturesque landscapes.

List of Places to Visit in Provins

There is no shortage of things to see and do in Provins. Here are some of the must-visit attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Provins Museum of Provins and the Provinois
  • The Saint-Quiriace Collegiate Church
  • The Tithe Barn
  • The Underground Galleries

Natural Attractions of Provins: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Valley of the Vanne River
  • The Ramparts of Provins
  • The Tower César
  • The Bois Sauvage Forest

Hiking/Biking Routes of Provins

For outdoor enthusiasts, Provins offers a number of hiking and biking trails that showcase its natural beauty. Some of the most popular routes are:

  • The Ramparts Circuit
  • The Valley of the Vanne Circuit
  • The Forest Circuit
  • The Saint-Loup-de-Naud Circuit

Best Things to Do in Provins: Activities and Tours

While there are plenty of historical sites and natural wonders to explore, there are also many unique and exciting activities to enjoy in Provins:

  • Take a tour of the underground mines
  • Attend the Chocolate Festival in December
  • Watch a medieval show
  • Go horseback riding or cycling around the countryside

Week-Long Itinerary for Provins

For those who want to fully explore what Provins has to offer, here is an ideal week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
Monday Explore the Underground Galleries
Tuesday Visit the Saint-Quiriace Collegiate Church and Tithe Barn
Wednesday Hike the Ramparts Circuit and Bois Sauvage Forest
Thursday Take a horse ride in the countryside
Friday Visit the Provins Museum of Provins and the Provinois
Saturday Check out the Tower César and attend a medieval show
Sunday Explore the Valley of the Vanne River

Food and Drink Scene of Provins

Provins is known for its hearty cuisine and delicious local products. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Potatoes with bacon and Reblochon cheese
  • Brie de Provins cheese
  • Coq au vin
  • Escargots à la bourguignonne (snails)

Local Beverages

  • Champagne
  • Cider
  • French wine
  • Calvados (brandy)

Where to Stay in Provins: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Provins has a variety of options for accommodation, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some popular places to stay:

  • Les Deux Lions
  • La Maison du Lavoir
  • Le César Hôtel
  • Le Provinois

What to Buy in Provins: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Provin’s markets and shops are filled with unique and handcrafted items. Here are some things to consider bringing home:

  • Brie de Provins cheese
  • Champagne
  • Hand-woven baskets
  • Ceramics and pottery

Local Culture and Customs of Provins

When visiting Provins, it’s important to remember to respect the local culture and customs. The people of Provins are friendly and hospitable, but it’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local customs before traveling.

Best Time to Visit Provins

The best time to visit Provins is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. The Chocolate Festival in December is also a great time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Provins

Do:

  • Respect the local culture
  • Sample the local cuisine
  • Explore the natural beauty of Provins

Don’t:

  • Litter or behave disrespectfully
  • Ignore local customs and traditions
  • Forget to carry cash as not all shops accept credit cards

Safety and Health

While Provins is a safe place to visit, it’s always better to take precautions to stay safe.

Safety in Provins

  • Keep your valuables secure
  • Don’t leave your belongings unattended
  • Use common sense when traveling at night.

Health in Provins

  • It’s important to stay hydrated, especially during the summer months.
  • Make sure to have adequate travel insurance.

Getting to Provins: Transportation Options and Logistics

Provins is easily accessible from major cities in the region. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Provins

  • Paris-Charles De Gaulle Airport
  • Paris-Orly Airport
  • Paris Beauvais-Tillé Airport

Bus Stations Near Provins

  • Paris-Bercy Station
  • Paris-Gare de l’Est

Other Options

  • You can also rent a car and explore the area at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Provins

The best way to get around in Provins is to rent a car as public transport can be infrequent and unreliable. Bicycles and horses are also an option for those who want to explore the area at a more leisurely pace.

Where to Go Next from Provins: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Provins is a great place to use as a base to explore the surrounding areas. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte
  • Château de Fontainebleau
  • Disneyland Paris
  • Paris

Conclusion

Provins is a magical and enchanting town that is well worth a visit. With its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine, it’s the perfect destination for those who want to experience the best of France. No matter what you choose to do in Provins, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable experience.