Behind its ramparts, the scent of history
Langres, the hilltop city
From its acropolis defended by powerful ramparts, Langres enjoys a dominant position. Populated by the Gauls, it has survived the centuries, preserving countless architectural and artistic treasures from the Gallo-Roman era right up to the present day.
Take the time to visit this city of art and history, where Denis Diderot and Jeanne Mance grew up. There are plenty of ideas for your stay. Discover the breathtaking panorama from the ramparts, feel the atmosphere of the narrow streets at the foot of the cathedral, or come and see one of the major events in the cultural season.
To make the most of your stay, take a look at our selection of accommodation and restaurants. Whether you're a family or a romantic getaway, the hilltop city welcomes you.
Visit Langres
Town of art and history
Sheltered by its ramparts, Langres offers you a plunge into the heart of history. Follow the golden studs on the "step-by-step" tour, which will guide you on your visit. Imagine what life was like in Gallo-Roman times, thanks to the rich collections of the Museum of Art and History. Take a walk along the ramparts and admire the defensive works, gates, towers, bastions, etc.
Lose yourself in the maze of narrow streets in the old town as far as Saint-Mammès cathedral. You'll come across treasures of Renaissance architecture.
At the Maison des Lumières, plunge into the heart of the 18th century and admire an original copy of the Encyclopédie.
Perhaps you can still feel the spirit of Diderot, a native of Langres, hovering over the hilltop town?
Choose the holiday that suits you best
For a romantic weekend or a family break
Come and breathe in the fresh air of the hilltop town and the Langres plateau!
- For the nostalgic : at the wheel of the mythical deudeuche, criss-cross the roads of the Pays de Langres and visit the town of Langres.
- With the whole family: at your own pace, go fishing, hiking or visit the local heritage in the company of professional guides from the Maison de Courcelles.
- Nature breaks: with Chemins de traverse, experience the forest in a different way: bivouac in nomad tents, discover the secrets of the undergrowth, hike with donkeys...
- For lovers: Discover Langres, its narrow streets and its historic and artistic heritage in complete freedom. Enjoy the comfort of a charming guest room and the panoramic view from the ramparts.
- Weekend in a van: explore the roads of the Haute-Marne in your van, from lakes to valleys and from forests to abbeys.
Take a breath from the fortifications of the hilltop town
They are the visual signature of the town
Adapted, restored, enlarged and preserved over the centuries, the fortifications of Langres form "the largest fortified enclosure in Europe ".
8 km of ramparts link the old town and the 19th-century citadel, making Langres a "fortress with 2 heads".
From the heights of the ramparts, breathe in the fresh open air. There are magnificent views over the forests of the Langres plateau, the Liez lake and the distant mountains.
Live to the rhythm of major events
As a town of art and history, Langres invites you to live the year to the rhythm of its major events.
- In the spring, the Tinta'mars Festival brings live entertainment to the city. Emotion, dreams and imagination for all audiences.
- When the weather's fine, the Halberdiers Summer Festival brings the Langro militia back to life. The militia offers guided tours throughout the town, bringing gardens, squares, ramparts and fortified towers to life.
- In August, the Festival du Chien à Plumes (Feathered Dog Festival) brings the sounds of contemporary music to Lake Vingeanne for 3 days: French chanson, rock, reggae, jazz...
- In October, Autour des Rencontres philosophiques celebrates the birth of Denis Diderot. Shows, exhibitions, tours, films, lectures and philosophy afternoon tea...
- On the last Sunday in November, the Sainte-Catherine fair brings together more than 200 exhibitors: local produce, clothes, toys, mulled wine... there's something for everyone.
Our selection of accommodation
Leave your luggage in the Pays de Langres for a stopover or a longer stay.
From country inns to charming hotels, choose as you wish.
Opt for the atmosphere of a former priory at the Hôtel du Cheval Blanc, or for a stay by the water at the Hôtel des Voiliers and enjoy the talents of their chefs.
Looking for the charm of a bed and breakfast? The belvedere on the ramparts, with its garden and views, will win you over.
If you're a self-catering city dweller, there are several gîtes in the centre of the town.
Pilgrims and walkers will find a presbytery and a campsite right in the heart of the historic town.
Our specialities and good food
Of course, Langres PDO cheese is the gastronomic ambassador of our region. But between Champagne and Burgundy, the "Made in Pays de Langres" label also distinguishes a wide range of flavours, from truffles to snails, from honey to good farm produce.
Thanks to a well-preserved natural environment and meticulous producers, you'll be able to enjoy cuisine made from quality ingredients. Whether it's gastronomic or "à la bonne franquette", it will be generous, tasty and authentic.
Organise your getaway
Where to sleep, where to eat, what to do?
From the must-sees to the best walks, we'll point you in the direction of our favourite activities. Visiting for several days? Discover our accommodation and restaurants: in the heart of nature, by the water or in the heart of a historic town, all you have to do is choose.
What to see around Langres
You'll certainly have spotted it from the ramparts. The area around Langres has plenty to offer!
For heritage lovers, visit the Château du Pailly, a jewel of the Champagne Renaissance, or follow the discovery trails through the pretty villages of Charmes, Peigney and Cohons.
Just a short pedal away, the blue waters of Lac de la Liez invite you to sail, paddle, water-ski or simply swim.
Experience the thrill of a breath of fresh air on one of the 10 accrobranche courses at " Sensation Nature ". You're at the gateway to the National Forest Park. Nature is calling...