History buffs and architecture enthusiasts (in particular) owe it to themselves to make the 2-hour journey from Paris to Troyes, which is home to one of the most extensive collections of historical timber-framed houses in France.

Here you can walk along the cobbled streets to admire the handiwork of the Renaissance craftsmen who rebuilt the city according to the original medieval designs after a devastating fire destroyed most of the original dwellings in 1524. Besides the charm of the multi-colored timber houses, you can also tour several impressive historic monuments, including the Hotel de Ville de Troyes, the ancient Abbey of Saint Martin-es-Aires, the train station, or Gare de Troyes, and the Theatre de Champagne.

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