Looking for the perfect day trip from Paris? Provins is the ideal destination!
Provins is a charming medieval town located in the region of Île-de-France. The town is known for its well-preserved fortifications, buildings, and rich history, earning it the designation of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In this blog, we will share with you our journey to this beautiful village.
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How to get to Provins from Paris?
You can take the “line P” train from Gare de l’Est in Paris to Provins, which takes about an hour and a half: the trains normally operate from 6 am till midnight and there are on average one or two trains per hour.
If you have a “Navigo” pass for zones 1 to 5, then you can use it to go for free! The “Navigo” is the pass for public transport in Paris or in the Ile de France region in general. However, if you don’t have it, you should buy a ticket to Provins.
The old town
When we first arrived in Provins, we took a walk along the fortified old town. The walls, gates and towers are in excellent condition. Make sure to walk along the ramparts, where you can enjoy the views over the town, and also the different sections of the fortifications.
Take a stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the colorful half-timbered houses and charming storefronts.
Tour César
Located in Place du Châtel, one of the main attractions in Provins is the “Tour César”, the most iconic building in Provins. The tour is a 12th-century keep, and the only one remaining in the Île-de-France region.
Climb the winding staircase to the top of the tower for a magnificient panoramic view of the town and the surrounding countryside.The tour also includes an exhibition about the history of Provins, its different cultural influences and heritage.
Saint Quiriace Collegiate Church
We visited the Saint Quiriace Collegiate Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture from the 12th and 13th centuries. We admired the beautiful stained-glass windows and the intricately carved stone details.
Other things to do in Provins
If you’re interested in learning more about the town’s underground limestone quarries, you can take a guided tour of the underground quarries beneath the town, which include a visit to a medieval salt mine.
For those who love gardens, the “La Roseraie de Provins” is a must-visit, where you can admire thousands of different types of roses.
Another way to immerse yourself in the history of Provins is by attending a Medieval Show, which take place in the town’s historic buildings. These shows are a great way to learn more about the history of the town and get a sense of what life was like during the Middle Ages. You can find the details here.
Overall, a day trip to Provins from Paris is a perfect way to step back in time and discover the charm of a medieval town. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just looking for a new place to explore, Provins is definitely worth a visit.
Looking to explore Ile-de-France? Check out our guide for Visiting Fontainebleau and Moret sur Loing!