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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔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.
The cathedral’s facade and stained glass provide dramatic morning and late-day light for exterior and interior shots.
Riverside views and bridges offer reflective water scenes, especially at sunset.
Timber-framed houses and narrow streets yield charming, character-filled compositions.
Scenes of medieval walls and gateways give a sense of the town’s defensive history.
Food in Soissons
Soissons Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory crepe filled with ham and cheese, then baked with mushrooms and onions—classic Picardy comfort food.
Must-Try!
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
A lively market where locals buy cheese, bread, charcuterie, and seasonal produce, especially on market days.
Several stalls offer fresh produce, prepared foods, and regional snacks that let you sample the local flavor street-side.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say bonjour when entering shops and hello to show respect; a polite greeting goes a long way.
Keep hands on the table (not elbows on the table) and use polite phrases; wait to be served and say thank you.
Safety
Tipping in Soissons
Ensure a smooth experience
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...
Mild temperatures and fresh greenery make walking comfortable; expect garden blooms and pleasant street scenes.
Warm days and longer evenings are ideal for riverfront strolls and outdoor dining; stay hydrated and pace visits to avoid afternoon heat.
Golden light and colorful foliage create scenic photo opportunities; markets focus on harvest produce.
Cool to cold weather with possible frost; the town is quiet but charming, with warm cafés and festive decorations around holidays.
Soissons at Night
Hiking in Soissons
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dense forested area offering a network of trails suitable for day hikes and nature walks.
Riverside paths and gentle hills ideal for easy to moderate hikes near the town.
Airports
How to reach Soissons by plane.
Major international hub about 75-90 minutes by train or car from Soissons.
Smaller airport, roughly 60-90 minutes away by car or shuttle.
Regional option about 1.5-2 hours away by road or rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large portion of residents are families with children and retirees; city services cater to all ages.
A modest student presence and commuters to nearby towns and Paris for work.
Visitors drawn by history, architecture, and river scenery contribute to seasonal local life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region follows national leagues with local clubs and weekend matches.
Rural roads and nearby forests offer scenic cycling routes for enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Soissons.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
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.