The city of Châlons-en-Champagne (formerly called Châlons-sur-Marne, officially renamed in 1998) is the capital town of Marne, Champagne-Ardenne and lies on the right bank of the Marne. It is 60 minutes from Paris and offers visitors a charming blend of heritage and nature.

With its pleasant surroundings, the town has been dubbed "little Venice" on account of the number of rivers and canals that flow through it. Over the years it has managed to preserve a major architectural heritage. The arts also thrive here, and traditional crafts such as stone masonry, sculpture and stained glass.

Its most prestigious building is the early Gothic church of Notre-Dame-en-Vaux (12th-13th century). It has four towers and is one of the most beautiful churches in Champagne, especially noted for its splendid 16th century stained glass (the Troyes Windows) in the choir.

On the south side of the town, the Porte Ste-Croix, was built in 1770 in honour of Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette.

In Chalons-en-Champagne the magnificent riverside gardens of Le Petit Jard overlook a toll gate constructed by Henry IV called the Ch?au du Marche.

A boat trip on one of the two canals – the Mau and the Nau – is the best way to discover the old bridges and gardens.

The term Châlons comes from the name of the Gaulish people the ‘Catalaunum’, meaning the ones who fight bravely.

Chalons en Champagne (Marne) mini guide

Guide point Details
Location: It is 60 minutes from Paris and the culture is multifarious
Public Transport:

The TGV links Paris to nearby Reims and connecting services run to Chalons en Champagne.

A "touristic" train is available to admire the principal sites, the most beautiful streets and curiosities of Châlons-in-Champagne.
Tourist information website: www.chalons-tourisme.com
Tourist information contact email: accueil@chalons-tourisme.com
Tourist information switch board number: + 33 (0)3 26 65 17 89
Tourist information address: Tourisme Office Chalon en Champagne, 3, quai des Arts, 51000 CHALONS-EN-CHAMPAGNE