There are plenty of sights and monuments to visit in the way of medieval buildings. The city is home to one of the earliest cathedrals in the country, with its five towers visible for miles.

The town also has a mini tram-metro system called the Poma 2000, recently put in place to replace the original tram system. This tram-metro system is famous for being the only fully automated cabel car system in the world.

This town, situated in northern France, is a less popular choice for a place to visit or stay whilst on holiday but none the less worthy. With its fine cathedrale and medieval buildings waiting to be explored, Laon still has alot to offer.

Laon is twinned with the city of Winchester in England and was featured in the book 'Pursuit of Passy' by D. M. Crook.

Things to Do

Laon is a good spot for cycling and walking, with the forest of St-Gobain on the door-step, the site of one of the greatest castles of the Middle Ages, Coucy-le-Chateau.

The town around the cathedral has many medieval buildings, and is well worth exploring.

In addition to the sites, take time out to enjoy a meal in one of the many creperies.

Places of Interest

The cathedral Notre Dame of Laon - dating from the 12th and 13th centuries, this is one of the finest cathedrals in France. The chapter-house and the cloister are fine examples of early 13th century gothic architecture, and there are numerous carvings and statues, frequently of animals, to admire. There is also a Gothic cloister and an old chapel of two storeys adjacent to the cathedral. The old episcopal palace, found next to the cathedral, is now a court-house. The cathedral is a major stop on the medieval pilgrimage route to Santiago in Spain.
Since Laon sits on a hill, the towers of the cathedral are visible for miles around. This breath-taking building boasts magnificent views across the surrounding countryside.
St Martin's Church - this dates from the middle of the 12th century. The old abbey buildings of the same foundation are now used as the hospital.
The museum of Laon has collections of sculpture and paintings. In its garden there is a 12th century octagonal Knights Templar 'Chapelle des Templiers'.

Guide point	Details
Department:	North East France > Picardie > Aisne >
Location:	North of Paris within easy reach of the ports, France
Public Transport:	Serviced by the A 26 autoroute, the town has the Poma 2000 which is the only fully automated municipal cable car system in the world. It links the upper town (the historical center) with the lower town stopping at three stations. By Air Around 120km from Roissy and Lille airports. By Train On two main train lines, to Paris and Reims.
Tourist information website:	http://www.tourisme-paysdelaon.com
Tourist information contact email:	tourisme.info.laon@wanadoo.fr
Tourist information switch board number:	+ 33 (0)3 23 20 28 62
Tourist information address:	Place du Parvis Gautier of Mortagne, 02000 Laon, France
Quick links to accommodation:	Accommodation near Laon (Aisne) - Hotels in Laon (Aisne) Show accommodation in Aisne - Self catering in Aisne - Bed and Breakfast in Aisne properties with pools in Aisne -