Laon: France’s Hilltop Hidden Gem with a Medieval Soul
Laon, a small but charming town in northern France, attracted me with its historical and cultural beauty. On a beautiful weekend morning, I decided to spend some time exploring Laon and attending Sunday Mass at Laon Cathedral, a beautiful Gothic structure.
Upon entering Laon, I was immediately impressed by the peaceful and ancient beauty of this town. The cobblestone streets, old houses with red tiled roofs, and quiet space created a relaxing and pleasant atmosphere. I started my day by walking around the center, looking at the small shops and enjoying a cup of coffee at a roadside cafe. The gentle sunlight shone down, making everything brighter and fresher.
After walking around, I decided to go up the hill to Laon Cathedral. The church is located on a high position, from here I could see the whole town and the surrounding countryside. As I entered the church grounds, I was immediately captivated by its architectural beauty. Laon Cathedral is one of the oldest and most beautiful Gothic structures in France, with its soaring towers and brilliant stained glass windows.
At exactly 10am, Sunday Mass began. I walked inside the church, where the space was large and solemn with dim light from the stained glass windows. The organ played, creating a sacred and moving atmosphere. The priest began the ceremony with a welcome and hymns filled the air. As a Catholic, I always felt a sense of peace and serenity from this ceremony.
Laon: France’s Hilltop Hidden Gem with a Medieval Soul
Perched atop a limestone hill in northern France, the ancient city of Laon is a breathtaking blend of history, serenity, and architectural wonder. Often overlooked by tourists, Laon offers a truly authentic experience for those eager to step back in time and discover the charm of a medieval French town.
At the heart of Laon lies its crown jewel: Laon Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Laon). With its soaring towers and intricate Gothic details, this 12th-century masterpiece once inspired even the builders of Notre-Dame de Paris. Walking through the old town, cobbled streets lead you past half-timbered houses, quiet squares, and remnants of ancient ramparts that once protected the city.
One of the most magical ways to explore Laon is aboard the P'tit Train Touristique, a small tourist train that winds through the historic quarter, offering scenic views and fascinating commentary on the city's storied past. Don't forget to stop at Porte d'Ardon, one of the remaining medieval gates, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the city walls.
Laon also invites you to slow down and savor the little moments—sip a coffee at a local cafe, browse weekend markets, or simply gaze at the breathtaking sunsets from the hilltop. With far fewer crowds than Paris or Reims, Laon feels like a well-kept secret waiting to be discovered.
📍 Address: Laon, Aisne Department, Hauts-de-France, France
💴 Average Price per Person: Free entry to most historic sites; small fees for train tours or local museums
💗 Reasons to Recommend: stunning cathedral, medieval charm, panoramic views, peaceful atmosphere
⸻
Hashtags:
#Laon #VisitFrance #HiddenGemsEurope #HistoricTowns #TripCoins #GothicArchitecture #LaonCathedral #TimelessTravel #CulturalHeritage #100waysoftravel #FranceUncovered #HilltopCityViews