Things To Do
in Soissons

Soissons is a historic town in the Aisne department of Hauts-de-France, perched along the Aisne River with a rich Roman and medieval legacy. Its compact center pairs grand cathedrals and ancient streets with a welcoming, small-town atmosphere. Visitors can wander cobbled lanes, explore ancient churches, and sample hearty Picardy cuisine at approachable brasseries.

Surrounding countryside offers pleasant day trips with riverside views and farm-filled landscapes just outside the town gates.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Soissons Cathedral
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the stunning Soissons Cathedral, known for its remarkable Gothic architecture. Take your time to admire the intricate stained glass windows and the serene ambiance inside the church. Don’t forget to capture the beautiful exterior against the backdrop of the morning light.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a charming local café, stroll through the picturesque streets of Soissons, soaking in the history and culture of the city. Visit the Abbaye Saint-Jean des Vignes, where the remnants of a once-grand church stand in tranquil surroundings. The afternoon is a perfect time to indulge in some shopping at local artisan shops.

evening
:

As sunset approaches, find a cozy restaurant to enjoy traditional French cuisine, savoring local specialties. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Aisne River, letting the sounds of the water and the twinkling city lights enhance your evening. End your day with a nightcap at a nearby bar or café, reflecting on the sights and experiences of the day.

day 2
Visit the Hotel de Ville
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the impressive Hotel de Ville, the town hall of Soissons, which features stunning architecture and historical significance. Take a guided tour to learn about the building's history and the role it plays in local governance. Enjoy the tranquil gardens surrounding the area as you sip on a morning coffee.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the nearby Museum of Soissons to immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Explore exhibitions that showcase ancient artifacts and local art. After the museum, take some time to relax in the Parc de l’Hotel de Ville, where you can take in the serene landscape.

evening
:

For dinner, experience a delightful meal at a local bistro known for its warm atmosphere and friendly service. Sample some regional wines paired with your meal, enjoying the flavors of Picardy. After dinner, join a guided night tour that highlights the illuminated historical sites of Soissons.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$15-20
Coffee$3-5
🚆One-way public transit ticket$2-3
🧀Local cheese or pastry item$3-6
🏨Mid-range hotel per night (2 people)$90-130

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and compact center ideal for walking
  • Beautiful river setting and approachable day trips
  • Strong local cuisine and market culture
  • Smaller nightlife scene compared to major cities
  • Limited direct international flights nearby
  • Occasional language barrier outside tourist areas
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Où est le restaurant le plus proche?" - Where is the nearest restaurant?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
  • "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Soissons

Visit one of these nice places.

Cathédrale Saint-Gervais-et-Saint-Protais

The cathedral’s facade and stained glass provide dramatic morning and late-day light for exterior and interior shots.

Banks of the Aisne River

Riverside views and bridges offer reflective water scenes, especially at sunset.

Old town cobbled lanes

Timber-framed houses and narrow streets yield charming, character-filled compositions.

Fortifications and gate remnants

Scenes of medieval walls and gateways give a sense of the town’s defensive history.

Culinary Guide

Food in Soissons

Soissons sits in Picardy, offering hearty country cuisine with fresh produce, dairy, and classic French bistro fare. You’ll find comforting dishes, seasonal vegetables, and regional cheeses, all paired with local breads and beers.

Soissons Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ficelle Picarde

A savory crepe filled with ham and cheese, then baked with mushrooms and onions—classic Picardy comfort food.

Must-Try!

Potjevleesch

A traditional cold terrine of layered pork and poultry in a light jelly, commonly served with bread and pickles.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché Central de Soissons

A lively market where locals buy cheese, bread, charcuterie, and seasonal produce, especially on market days.

Market stalls near Place du Général de Gaulle

Several stalls offer fresh produce, prepared foods, and regional snacks that let you sample the local flavor street-side.

Climate Guide

Weather

Soissons experiences a temperate Atlantic-influenced climate with mild summers and cool winters. Rain is fairly well distributed throughout the year, with the warmest months July and August and the coldest months December through February. Spring and autumn bring pleasant temperatures for outdoor exploration, while winter can feel chilly but is often sunny on clear days.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Say bonjour when entering shops and hello to show respect; a polite greeting goes a long way.

Mealtime manners

Keep hands on the table (not elbows on the table) and use polite phrases; wait to be served and say thank you.

Safety Guide

Safety

Soissons is generally safe for travelers but, as in any tourist area, be mindful of pickpockets in crowded spots and keep belongings secure. Use well-lit streets at night, and rely on official taxis or rideshares after dark. In case of emergency, dial 112 for help in France.

Tipping in Soissons

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In France, a service charge is often included (service compris). It is customary to leave a small extra tip (5-10%) for good service, especially if no service charge is included.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and fresh greenery make walking comfortable; expect garden blooms and pleasant street scenes.

Summer

Warm days and longer evenings are ideal for riverfront strolls and outdoor dining; stay hydrated and pace visits to avoid afternoon heat.

Autumn

Golden light and colorful foliage create scenic photo opportunities; markets focus on harvest produce.

Winter

Cool to cold weather with possible frost; the town is quiet but charming, with warm cafés and festive decorations around holidays.

Nightlife Guide

Soissons at Night

Soissons offers a selection of bars and small pubs around the central square. The nightlife is relaxed and typically centers on casual conversations, beer and wine, with occasional live music or local events. For a livelier scene, head to larger nearby cities, but within Soissons you’ll find intimate venues and social evenings suitable for a low-key night out.

Hiking in Soissons

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Forêt de Retz trails

Dense forested area offering a network of trails suitable for day hikes and nature walks.

Aisne valley footpaths

Riverside paths and gentle hills ideal for easy to moderate hikes near the town.

Airports

How to reach Soissons by plane.

Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)

Major international hub about 75-90 minutes by train or car from Soissons.

Paris Beauvais-Tillé (BVA)

Smaller airport, roughly 60-90 minutes away by car or shuttle.

Lille Airport (LIL)

Regional option about 1.5-2 hours away by road or rail.

Getting Around

Walkability

Soissons is highly walkable, with most major sights within a short stroll of one another. The old town’s pedestrian-friendly streets and riverfront paths make exploring pleasant, though some cobbled lanes can be uneven for strollers or wheelchairs.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Large portion of residents are families with children and retirees; city services cater to all ages.

Students and professionals

A modest student presence and commuters to nearby towns and Paris for work.

Tourists

Visitors drawn by history, architecture, and river scenery contribute to seasonal local life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The region follows national leagues with local clubs and weekend matches.

Cycling

Rural roads and nearby forests offer scenic cycling routes for enthusiasts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in the town center can be busy during market days; outside peak times, driving is straightforward. Trains (TER) connect Soissons to Paris and regional towns, while buses cover local routes. Parking in the old town can be limited; look for municipal lots or park-and-ride options nearby.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Soissons.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options such as salads, vegetable-based dishes, and cheese boards. When ordering, ask for menus without meat and request dishes like mushroom risotto or cheese-filled crepes; carrying a small translation card can help if language is a barrier.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

France offers robust healthcare. In Soissons you can access local clinics and the Centre Hospitalier de Soissons for emergencies. Carry your European Health Insurance Card if applicable and know the local emergency number is 112.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide