30 Best Things to Do in Épinal (France)

Épinal, a beautiful city located in northeastern France, is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and picturesque landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Épinal has something to offer for everyone.

Best Things to Do in Épinal (France)

1. Visit the Épinal Castle

Start your journey by exploring the iconic Épinal Castle, a medieval fortress that offers panoramic views of the city. Take a guided tour to learn about the castle’s fascinating history and admire its impressive architecture.

2. Explore the Musée de l’Image

Discover the world of imagery at the Musée de l’Image, a unique museum dedicated to the art of printing and graphic design. Marvel at the extensive collection of prints, posters, and illustrations that showcase the city’s cultural heritage.

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3. Take a Stroll in the Parc du Château

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and unwind in the peaceful Parc du Château. This beautiful park features lush greenery, serene ponds, and charming walking paths, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic.

4. Visit the Basilique Saint-Maurice

Marvel at the stunning architecture of the Basilique Saint-Maurice, a magnificent church that dates back to the 11th century. Admire the intricate stained glass windows and take a moment to appreciate the tranquility of this sacred place.

5. Explore the Musée Départemental d’Art Ancien et Contemporain

Art lovers shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit the Musée Départemental d’Art Ancien et Contemporain. This museum houses a diverse collection of artwork, ranging from ancient sculptures to contemporary paintings.

6. Take a Boat Ride on the Moselle River

Experience Épinal from a different perspective by taking a boat ride on the scenic Moselle River. Enjoy the picturesque views of the city’s skyline and the surrounding countryside as you leisurely cruise along the water.

7. Visit the Parc du Cours

Enjoy a day outdoors at the Parc du Cours, a beautiful park located in the heart of Épinal. Take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax on one of the park’s benches and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

8. Explore the Quartier de la Magdeleine

Wander through the charming Quartier de la Magdeleine, a historic neighborhood known for its narrow streets, colorful houses, and quaint shops. Discover hidden gems, browse local boutiques, and indulge in delicious French cuisine.

9. Take a Guided Tour of the Épinal Print Factory

Learn about the city’s rich printing history by taking a guided tour of the Épinal Print Factory. Witness the fascinating process of printing and see firsthand how the famous Épinal prints are made.

10. Visit the Chapelle de la Vierge

Step inside the Chapelle de la Vierge, a charming chapel that offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city streets. Admire the beautiful stained glass windows and take a moment for quiet reflection.

11. Explore the Jardins de l’Imagerie

Discover the enchanting Jardins de l’Imagerie, a delightful garden filled with sculptures, fountains, and vibrant flowers. Take a leisurely stroll and immerse yourself in the beauty of this hidden gem.

12. Visit the Musée de la Tour des Voués

Learn about the city’s medieval history at the Musée de la Tour des Voués. Explore the ancient tower and discover artifacts, weapons, and armor that provide insight into Épinal’s past.

13. Attend a Performance at the Théâtre Municipal

Immerse yourself in the local arts scene by attending a performance at the Théâtre Municipal. From plays and musicals to ballets and concerts, there’s always something exciting happening at this vibrant venue.

14. Enjoy a Wine Tasting Experience

Indulge in the flavors of the region by participating in a wine tasting experience. Visit a local winery and sample a variety of wines, learning about the production process and the unique characteristics of each vintage.

15. Discover the Épinal Covered Market

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Épinal Covered Market, where you’ll find a wide array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal products. Take the opportunity to interact with local vendors and immerse yourself in the city’s culinary culture.

16. Explore the Porte des Allemands

Step back in time as you explore the Porte des Allemands, a medieval gate that once served as a defense mechanism for the city. Walk along the ancient walls and admire the panoramic views of Épinal.

17. Take a Bike Ride Along the Voie Verte

Enjoy the scenic beauty of Épinal and its surroundings by taking a bike ride along the Voie Verte, a picturesque cycling path that stretches for miles. Breathe in the fresh air and take in the stunning views as you pedal through the countryside.

18. Visit the Musée de la Lutherie et de l’Archèterie Françaises

Discover the art of violin making at the Musée de la Lutherie et de l’Archèterie Françaises. Learn about the craftsmanship behind these exquisite instruments and admire the collection of violins, bows, and other stringed instruments.

19. Attend a Festival or Event

Épinal is known for its vibrant festivals and events that celebrate the city’s culture and traditions. Check the local calendar and plan your visit around one of these exciting gatherings to fully immerse yourself in the local culture.

20. Take a Day Trip to the Vosges Mountains

Escape the city and venture into the breathtaking Vosges Mountains, located just a short drive from Épinal. Enjoy hiking, skiing, or simply marveling at the stunning natural beauty of this picturesque mountain range.

21. Explore the Canal des Vosges

Discover the scenic Canal des Vosges and take a leisurely walk or bike ride along its picturesque banks. Enjoy the tranquility of the water and the surrounding nature as you explore this hidden gem.

22. Visit the Musée de la Faïence

Learn about the art of faience pottery at the Musée de la Faïence. Admire the exquisite craftsmanship of these delicate pieces and gain insight into the history and techniques of this traditional craft.

23. Take a Cooking Class

Immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of Épinal by taking a cooking class. Learn how to prepare traditional French dishes using fresh, local ingredients and discover the secrets of French cuisine.

24. Discover the Épinal Arboretum

Escape to nature at the Épinal Arboretum, a peaceful park filled with a variety of trees and plants. Take a leisurely walk, have a picnic, or simply relax and enjoy the serenity of this green oasis.

25. Visit the Musée de la Coutellerie

Explore the world of cutlery at the Musée de la Coutellerie. Discover the history and craftsmanship behind Épinal’s famous knives and learn about the traditional techniques used in their production.

26. Take a Dip in the Lac de Bouzey

Cool off on a hot day by taking a dip in the refreshing waters of the Lac de Bouzey. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing on the sandy beach, surrounded by beautiful nature.

27. Explore the Château de Bouzey

Step inside the Château de Bouzey, a historic castle that offers a glimpse into the region’s past. Take a guided tour to learn about the castle’s history and explore its beautifully preserved rooms and gardens.

28. Visit the Musée de l’Adrienne

Discover the fascinating world of dolls at the Musée de l’Adrienne. Admire the collection of antique dolls and learn about the history and craftsmanship behind these cherished toys.

29. Take a Guided Tour of the Épinal Town Hall

Explore the Épinal Town Hall and learn about the city’s governance and administration. Take a guided tour to discover the history and architecture of this impressive building.

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30. Enjoy a Traditional French Meal

No visit to Épinal would be complete without indulging in a traditional French meal. Visit one of the city’s charming restaurants and savor classic French dishes, accompanied by a glass of local wine.

With its rich history, stunning architecture, and picturesque landscapes, Épinal offers a wealth of experiences for travelers. Whether you’re exploring the city’s historic sites, immersing yourself in its vibrant arts scene, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside, Épinal is sure to leave a lasting impression.