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There are great many things to do in France, and so are in Chatillon-sur-Seine.
Chatillon-sur-Seine is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.
From its glistening rivers to its charming streets, this town is a feast for the senses.
Whether you want to wander through museums or sip on wine in vineyards, Chatillon-sur-Seine is the perfect destination to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of France.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Chatillon-sur-Seine:
1. Musée du Pays Châtillonnais-Trésor de Vix
Musée du Pays Châtillonnais-Trésor de Vix is a museum located in Chatillon-sur-Seine, France that houses a collection of artifacts from the Gaulish period.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the exhibits that showcase the rich history of the region through the Bronze and Iron Ages.
The highlight of the museum is the Vix krater, a massive bronze cauldron thought to have been used for funerary purposes by the Gaulish aristocracy.
There are also a number of other archaeological treasures on display, including pottery, jewelry, weapons, and tools.
Don’t miss: The Vix krater is undoubtedly the star of the show, but don’t miss the chance to see other artifacts, such as the famous Carnutetorix statue and the gold torc of the Princess of Vix.
Insider travel tips: – The museum can get busy during peak season, so try to visit early in the day to avoid crowds.
2. Château de Rochefort-sur-Ébreuil
Château de Rochefort-sur-Ébreuil is a historic castle located in the town of Chatillon-sur-Seine, Burgundy, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle and its grounds, including the chapel, main hall, dungeon, and various rooms showcasing antique furnishings and artwork.
The castle also hosts various cultural events such as concerts, theater performances, and exhibitions.
Don’t miss: The castle’s impressive collection of antique tapestries, including a set of 16th-century Flemish tapestries depicting the life of Moses.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the castle’s website for information on upcoming events and exhibitions. Guided tours are available in English, French, and other languages, but must be booked in advance.
Additionally, the castle is closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.
3. Église Saint-Nicolas
Église Saint-Nicolas is a beautiful Gothic-style church located in Chatillon-sur-Seine, a town in the Burgundy-Franche-Comté region of France.
What to see or do: Visitors to Église Saint-Nicolas can admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the church, including its soaring nave, beautiful stained glass windows, and intricately carved sculptures.
The church also contains several impressive works of art, including a 16th-century altarpiece and a painting by renowned artist François Boucher.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a closer look at the intricate details of the church’s façade, including the beautiful stone carvings of saints and angels that adorn the front entrance.
Inside the church, don’t miss the stunning stained glass windows, which are some of the finest examples of Gothic glasswork in the region.
Insider travel tips: To truly appreciate the beauty of Église Saint-Nicolas, try to visit during one of the church’s regular organ concerts, which are held throughout the year and offer a chance to enjoy the building’s incredible acoustics.
Also, be sure to take a stroll through the charming town of Chatillon-sur-Seine, which is known for its rich history and scenic location on the banks of the Seine River.
4. Ancienne Abbaye Notre Dame de Châtillon
Ancienne Abbaye Notre Dame de Châtillon is a historical and cultural site located in the town of Chatillon-sur-Seine in France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful Romanesque and Gothic architecture of the old abbey, which dates back to the 13th century. There are also several art exhibitions and concerts held throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a look at the stunning stained glass windows in the abbey, which depict religious scenes and local history.
Insider travel tips: Check the schedule for special events like the annual music festival held in the summer. Also, consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of this ancient abbey.
5. Forteresse médiévale du Châtelet
The Châtelet Medieval Fortress is a historical monument located in the town of Chatillon-sur-Seine in the Burgundy region of France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the impressive fortress walls, towers, and gatehouse dating back to the 10th century. The museum inside the fortress showcases artifacts from the medieval and Renaissance periods, including weapons, armor, and artwork.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the breathtaking views from the top of the fortress towers, which offer panoramic views of Chatillon-sur-Seine and the surrounding countryside.
Insider travel tips: – Guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the history of the fortress and the town.
6. Le Jardin de la Chouette
A beautiful garden in the town of Chatillon-sur-Seine, France.
What to see or do: Admire the various plants and flowers in Le Jardin de la Chouette, including a collection of exotic plants, a bamboo forest, and a vegetable garden.
Take a walk through the garden paths, and relax on the benches.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the garden is the large stone owl, the “chouette,” perched atop a hill overlooking the town. The panoramic view from this spot is breathtaking.
Insider travel tips: Visit the garden in the morning or evening to avoid the crowds. Bring a picnic to enjoy on the grassy areas.
Access to the garden is free.
7. Le Lac de Marcenay
Le Lac de Marcenay is a man-made lake located in the town of Chatillon-sur-Seine in Burgundy, France.
What to see or do: The lake offers a variety of water activities such as swimming, fishing, boating, and windsurfing. The surrounding area is great for hiking and biking.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the scenic views of the lake from the overlooks and the opportunity to try the local cuisine at the nearby restaurants.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to visit in the summer months when the water is warm and the outdoor activities are in full swing.
Also, be sure to bring insect repellent as there can be mosquitoes in the area.
8. Parc de la Colombière
Parc de la Colombière is a beautiful public park located in Chatillon-sur-Seine, France.
What to see or do: The park offers a serene and picturesque environment perfect for a stroll or picnic. It boasts a large pond, a rose garden, lush lawns, and towering trees.
Visitors can also find a playground for children and several walking trails, as well as a mini-golf course and a small animal farm.
Don’t miss: One of the main attractions of Parc de la Colombière is the Château de Marmont, a magnificent castle built in the 18th century.
Insider travel tips: – Entrance to the park is free.
9. Fête de la Saint-Vorles
Fête de la Saint-Vorles is an annual celebration in Chatillon-sur-Seine, a charming town located in the Burgundy region of France.
What to see or do: During the festival, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, such as live music performances, street performances, fireworks, and various food and drink stalls.
Don’t forget to visit the bustling market, where you can find all sorts of local crafts, artisanal products, and souvenirs.
Don’t miss: Make sure to attend the parade, which is a highlight of the festival. You’ll see colorful floats, street performers, and locals in traditional costumes.
The atmosphere is festive and electric!
Insider travel tips: This festival attracts many visitors, so plan your accommodation in advance.
Additionally, if you want to experience the festival like a local, head to the Saint-Vorles church on the eve of the festival, where they offer a traditional “chicorée” drink.
Finally, bring cash, as some food and drink stalls don’t accept cards.
10. Les Forges de Buffon
A historic ironworks factory established in the 18th century by Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon.
What to see or do: Take a guided tour of the facility to see the historic equipment and learn about the ironworking process. Visitors can also explore the gardens and outdoor exhibits.
Don’t miss: The impressive blast furnace, which still stands tall on the grounds.
Insider travel tips: Check the schedule for special events, such as demonstrations of traditional ironworking techniques. The gift shop sells unique iron-made souvenirs.
11. Fontaine François 1er
A historic fountain located in the center of Chatillon-sur-Seine, a town in the Burgundy region of France.
What to see or do: Take a stroll around the fountain and admire its intricate design and detailing. The fountain features sculptures of dolphins, lions, and cherubs, as well as the coat of arms of King Francis I.
Don’t miss: The nightly light show which illuminates the fountain with various colors and highlights its beauty.
Insider travel tips: Visit the fountain in the early morning or late evening to avoid large crowds and to fully appreciate its peaceful surroundings.
Also, take a walk through the charming streets of Chatillon-sur-Seine and stop by a local bakery to try some delicious French pastries.
12. Halle du Marché au Blé
A historic covered market hall located in the heart of Chatillon-sur-Seine.
What to see or do: Visit the Halle du Marché au Blé to admire its beautiful architecture. The market hall dates back to the 19th century and features an iron and glass roof supported by metal pillars.
It is an excellent example of industrial architecture of the time.
Don’t miss: The market hall is still used for its original purpose!
On Tuesdays and Fridays, a bustling market takes place inside the Halle du Marché au Blé where you can find fresh local produce, cheeses, meats and more.
Insider travel tips: Take a break from the market and stop by one of the cafes or bakeries nearby for a coffee or croissant.
The market can be quite busy, so arrive early to avoid the crowds.
13. Musée François Pompon
Musée François Pompon is a small museum dedicated to the works of the famous French animal sculptor, François Pompon.
What to see or do: The museum features a collection of around 70 sculptures, including Pompon’s most famous work, the White Bear. The sculptures are displayed in several galleries, and visitors can learn about Pompon’s artistic journey and unique style.
Don’t miss: The White Bear sculpture is undoubtedly the highlight of the museum and an iconic piece of art. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting the museum.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is small, so plan to spend around an hour here.
14. Circuit des lavoirs
Circuit des lavoirs is a self-guided tour that takes visitors through a series of historic laundry places known as lavoirs in the town of Chatillon-sur-Seine.
What to see or do: Expect to see 19 beautifully preserved lavoirs, each one with its own unique design, architecture, and history.
This scenic tour will lead you to the heart of the town, where you can admire the charming waterways, ancient bridges, and lush greenery.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit Lavoir de la Fontaignotte, which is one of the largest and most impressive lavoirs of them all.
Additionally, don’t miss the chance to take a peek at the Arman Museum, which is in close proximity to the lavoirs.
Insider travel tips: Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and bring a bottle of water.
The circuit des lavoirs is around 6km long, so it’s recommended to take breaks in between to fully appreciate the lavoirs’ beauty.
Additionally, it is best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the crowd is minimal. Don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations on the best places to eat or drink in town.
15. Sentier des remparts
The Sentier des Remparts is a medieval walking trail that encircles the historic town of Chatillon-sur-Seine, located in the Burgundy region of France.
What to see or do: The trail is 3 kilometers long and offers stunning views of the town and the surrounding landscapes.
Visitors can admire the old town walls, towers, and gates while discovering various historical landmarks along the way, such as the Saint-Vorles Collegiate Church and the Museum of Chatillonnais.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the panoramic view of the town and the valley from the top of the Tour de Navarre, one of the trail’s highlights.
Also, make sure to bring your camera as there are many picturesque spots along the way.
Insider travel tips: Wear good walking shoes as some parts of the trail can be steep. The trail is accessible year-round and is free of charge.
For the best experience, visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and take advantage of the beautiful light.