Épinal

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Épinal's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore the Heart of Épinal
morning
:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, enjoying freshly baked croissants and local coffee. Take a leisurely stroll through the scenic Parc du Château, savoring the lush greenery and beautiful views overlooking the city. Visit the impressive Épinal Château, exploring its historical significance and breathtaking architecture.

afternoon
:

Post-lunch, delve into the rich history of Épinal at the Épinal Musée du Chapitre, where you can discover fascinating exhibitions on the region's art and culture. Wander through the charming streets of the town center, popping into quaint shops and boutiques for unique souvenirs. As the afternoon sun casts a golden hue over the city, relax at the nearby riverbank along the Moselle.

evening
:

As night falls, treat yourself to a gourmet dinner at one of Épinal's top restaurants, where you can indulge in exquisite French cuisine. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk along the illuminated streets, taking in the vibrant atmosphere. Cap the night off with a local wine or a delicious dessert at a cozy bistro.

day 2
Day Trip to Gérardmer
morning
:

Kick off your adventure with an early morning drive to Gérardmer, surrounded by the stunning Vosges mountains. Upon arrival, enjoy a hearty breakfast at a lakeside café while soaking in the picturesque views of the lake. Explore the beautiful trails and scenery surrounding Lac de Gérardmer as you prepare for a day full of outdoor activities.

afternoon
:

After exploring the natural beauty, indulge in a leisurely lakeside lunch before heading out for some water sports or hiking in the area. Consider trying paddleboarding or renting a pedal boat for a fun afternoon on the lake. As you absorb the fresh mountain air, take a moment to admire the surrounding lush landscapes.

evening
:

Return to Épinal in the evening, where you can unwind at a local pub or wine bar, sharing stories of your day. Enjoy a light dinner that features local specialties and fresh ingredients. Reflect on the beautiful sights you experienced while savoring a delectable dessert under the stars.

day 3
Cultural Dive at Épinal
morning
:

Begin your day immersing yourself in Épinal’s cultural scene by visiting the local art galleries. Enjoy a tranquil breakfast at a nearby café before heading to the vibrant exhibitions showcasing both contemporary and traditional art. Engage with local artists and learn about their creative processes during this inspiring visit.

afternoon
:

Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant that serves regional delicacies and seasonal produce. Post-lunch, explore the historic Épinal printmaking district, where you can witness artisans at work and even try your hand at making a print. The day’s activities will deepen your appreciation for the local culture.

evening
:

Conclude the day by attending a local theater performance or concert, celebrating Épinal’s lively arts scene. Savor dinner at a bistro known for its artistic ambiance, where each dish is a culinary work of art. Share your thoughts on the performances while sipping on a glass of regional wine.

day 4
Adventure at Parc Animalier de Sainte-Croix
morning
:

Start your day with a scenic drive to the Parc Animalier de Sainte-Croix, home to a variety of wildlife in natural habitats. Enjoy a breakfast picnic on the park grounds, surrounded by nature and the sounds of wildlife. Prepare for a day filled with animal encounters and nature walks.

afternoon
:

Explore the park extensively, observing animals from around the world and learning about conservation efforts. Grab lunch at the park's café, which offers refreshing options to recharge before continuing your adventure. Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in interactive exhibits or feeding sessions.

evening
:

Return to Épinal to unwind after a day of exploration, enjoying a relaxed dinner at a charming restaurant. Reflect on the day’s encounters with nature as you savor a comforting meal. Spend your evening leisurely exploring Épinal’s nightlife, perhaps visiting a local bar for live music.

day 5
Historical Treasures of Épinal
morning
:

Kick off your day by exploring the historical gems of Épinal, starting with the Abbaye de Saint-Maurice. Enjoy breakfast nearby before delving into the rich heritage of the town. Consider joining a guided tour to discover lesser-known stories and facts about this historic site.

afternoon
:

Afterward, visit the Musée de l'Image to see the fascinating collection of prints and illustrations that highlight artistic traditions. Have lunch at a nearby eatery, enjoying local flavors while discussing the art you’ve just encountered. Continue your exploration by walking to the nearby stunning Église Saint-Maurice, known for its remarkable stained glass.

evening
:

As dusk falls, enjoy an elegant dinner at a local establishment with a focus on traditional French cuisine. After your meal, take a leisurely evening stroll through the quiet historic streets of Épinal, where you can appreciate the tranquil ambiance. Conclude your evening with dessert at a nearby patisserie, savoring sweet treats.

day 6
Relaxation at Les Vosges
morning
:

Spend the morning at the beautiful lakes and mountains of Les Vosges, enjoying the crisp mountain air and breathtaking scenery. Have breakfast at a cozy mountain lodge, surrounded by nature. Take a leisurely hike to start your day, discovering the unique flora and fauna of the region.

afternoon
:

At lunchtime, find a charming mountain restaurant that offers panoramic views, indulging in hearty local dishes. Continue your exploration with an afternoon filled with hiking or mountain biking amidst the stunning landscapes. Don't forget to take plenty of photos of the picturesque views.

evening
:

Return to Épinal in the evening, ready to unwind after an exciting day outdoors. Enjoy a comforting dinner at a rustic tavern featuring seasonal delicacies. Cap off the night by relaxing at your accommodation or enjoying a warm drink in a local café.

day 7
Culinary Delights of Épinal
morning
:

Start your day with a culinary workshop, where you can learn to make traditional French dishes from a local chef. Enjoy a breakfast of gourmet pastries and fresh fruit before diving into the rich flavors of Épinal's cuisine. This hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation for French cooking.

afternoon
:

After your workshop, savor the meals you've prepared as part of a communal lunch experience. Spend the afternoon visiting local markets to discover fresh ingredients and artisanal products. Engage with local vendors, learning about their crafts and the stories behind their products.

evening
:

Conclude your culinary journey with a tasting menu at one of Épinal’s finest restaurants, where you can experience innovative interpretations of classic dishes. Bask in the ambiance of the restaurant, enjoying a thoughtfully curated wine pairing with each course. Reflect on the day’s experiences with flavors of the region lingering on your palate.

day 8
Nature and Wellness Retreat
morning
:

Begin your day with a revitalizing yoga session amidst nature, setting a peaceful tone for the journey ahead. Afterward, enjoy a healthy breakfast made from local ingredients at a wellness retreat nearby. Rejuvenate your body and mind with mindfulness exercises.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon exploring the serene landscapes of Épinal through guided nature walks. Stop for a nutritious lunch packed with seasonal produce, fueling your adventures. Immerse yourself in the restorative atmosphere, taking time to unwind in nature.

evening
:

As dusk settles, return to your accommodation for a well-deserved spa treatment featuring local herbal remedies. Enjoy a peaceful dinner focused on health and wellness, celebrating the fresh flavors of the season. End the day with relaxing meditation or a quiet reflection on your experiences.

day 9
Romantic Evening in Épinal
morning
:

Kick-off a day of romance with a leisurely breakfast in bed at your accommodation, complete with local treats and fresh fruit. Take a stroll through the picturesque Parc du Château, hand in hand, enjoying the serene atmosphere and charming gardens. Delve into the history of the area, visiting the local boutiques for unique gifts.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a decadent lunch at a restaurant known for its romantic ambiance, with views over the river. Spend a leisurely afternoon exploring the countryside on a scenic bicycle ride, taking in the beautiful landscapes and capturing memorable pictures. Consider a visit to a local vineyard for a wine tasting experience to savor the flavors of the region together.

evening
:

As twilight approaches, prepare for a special dinner at a gourmet restaurant that offers an intimate setting. Celebrate your time together with a thoughtful menu and a toast to love with a fine local wine. Cap the romantic day with a quiet walk along the river, reflecting on your shared adventures in Épinal.

Discover Épinal

Read more in our Épinal 2025 Travel Guide.

Épinal Travel Guide