3 day itinerary for Soissons

Itinerary

Soissons is a charming town in northern France, rich in history and surrounded by beautiful countryside. Here’s a delightful 3-day itinerary that will let you soak in the culture, history, and gastronomy of the area. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Explore the Heart of Soissons

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious French breakfast at a local café. Try a buttery croissant and a café au lait to fuel your adventures!
• Visit the Abbey of Saint-Jean-des-Vignes: After breakfast, head to this stunning abbey, which dates back to the 12th century. The architecture is breathtaking, and you can stroll through the ruins and gardens.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Bistro: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a bistro in the town center. Sample some regional specialties like coq au vin or a fresh salad with local cheeses.
• Soissons Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Gervais et Saint-Protais): Post-lunch, visit this magnificent Gothic cathedral. Don’t miss the beautiful stained glass windows and the serene atmosphere inside.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: Treat yourself to dinner at a cozy restaurant. Try the duck confit or a classic French onion soup.
• Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Aisne River. The sunset views are simply magical!

## Day 2: History and Culture

Morning:

• Breakfast at Your Accommodation: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café.
• Visit the Museum of Soissons (Musée de Soissons): Dive into the local history and art at this museum. It features archaeological finds, medieval artifacts, and contemporary art.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Crêperie: Savor some delicious crêpes for lunch. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, you’ll find something to tickle your taste buds!
• Explore the Ruins of the Roman Theatre: After lunch, head to the ancient Roman theatre ruins. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the town’s past and a great spot for some photos.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Wine Bar: Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a wine bar, where you can sample local wines paired with cheese and charcuterie.
• Catch a Local Event: Check if there are any local events or performances happening in the evening. Soissons often has cultural events that can be a delightful surprise!

## Day 3: Nature and Surroundings

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Bakery: Grab a fresh baguette and pastries from a local bakery for a picnic later.
• Visit the Parc de l’Abbaye: Spend your morning in this lovely park. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or to enjoy your picnic breakfast.

Afternoon:

• ## Day Trip to the Chemin des Dames: After breakfast, take a short drive to the Chemin des Dames, a historic ridge with stunning views and significant World War I sites. Explore the memorials and enjoy the beautiful landscape.
• Lunch in a Nearby Village: Find a quaint village nearby for lunch. Many small towns have charming cafés where you can enjoy a meal.

Evening:

• Return to Soissons for Dinner: Head back to Soissons and enjoy your final dinner at a restaurant you haven’t tried yet. Perhaps a nice steak frites or a seafood dish?
• Wrap Up with a Nightcap: End your trip with a nightcap at a local bar or café, reflecting on your lovely time in Soissons.

Tips:

• Transportation: Soissons is quite walkable, but renting a bike or a car can help you explore the surrounding areas more easily.
• Local Markets: If you’re there on a Saturday, don’t miss the local market for fresh produce and artisanal goods!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic time in Soissons! Enjoy every moment of your adventure! 🌍✨