· FR

Noyon

Noyon, Hauts-de-France, France

Noyon, located in the picturesque region of Hauts-de-France, France, is a charming town that boasts a rich history and a variety of attractions for tourists to explore and enjoy. One of the key attractions in Noyon is th…

#Historic town#Cathedral#Medieval architecture#French countryside#Battlefield sites

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Noyon.

Top Hotels in Noyon

Top Flights to Noyon

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Noyon.

Tours

Noyon Cathedral Visit

Explore the majestic Noyon Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with intricate designs and historical significance.

Shopping

Shopping at Noyon's Weekly Market

Visit Noyon's lively weekly market to experience local culture and purchase fresh produce, handmade crafts, and more.

Outdoor

Hiking through Oise Regional Forest

Immerse yourself in nature with a hike through the beautiful Oise Regional Forest, offering lush greenery and tranquil paths.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Noyon.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

18,000

Languages

French, French

Average weather

Noyon

Jan

6°1°

Feb

7°1°

Mar

11°3°

Apr

15°5°

May

19°9°

Jun

22°12°

Jul

25°14°

Aug

25°14°

Sep

21°11°

Oct

16°8°

Nov

10°4°

Dec

7°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Noyon.

What people love

Noyon, located in Hauts-de-France, France, offers several advantages for travelers:

Historical significance: Noyon is a town rich in history, with its origins dating back to Roman times. Visitors can explore the medieval architecture, including the Noyon Cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Charming atmosphere: Noyon has a quaint and picturesque atmosphere, with narrow cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and local markets. It offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger cities.
Cultural attractions: The town has several cultural attractions, such as museums, art galleries, and theaters, where visitors can immerse themselves in the local art and history.
Gastronomy: Noyon is known for its delicious French cuisine, featuring local specialties and fresh ingredients. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes in cozy restaurants and cafes throughout the town.
Proximity to other attractions: Noyon is located in a strategic position, making it easy to access other popular destinations in Hauts-de-France, such as Amiens, Beauvais, and Compiegne. This makes it a great base for exploring the region.

Overall, traveling to Noyon offers a unique blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, making it a rewarding destination for those seeking an authentic French experience.

What to know

Noyon, located in Hauts-de-France, France, is a small town with historical significance, but there are also some cons to consider when traveling there:

Limited tourist amenities: Noyon is a small town, so it may not have as many tourist amenities and facilities compared to larger cities. Accommodation options, restaurants, and shops may be limited.
Language barrier: While many people in Noyon may speak some English, it is primarily a French-speaking region. Travelers who do not speak French may experience communication challenges.
Limited public transportation: Noyon is a small town, and public transportation options may be limited. Renting a car or relying on taxis may be necessary to get around the area.
Limited nightlife and entertainment options: Noyon is a quiet town, and there may not be as many nightlife or entertainment options compared to larger cities. Travelers looking for a vibrant nightlife scene may be disappointed.
Seasonal considerations: The weather in Noyon can be quite cold and rainy, especially in the winter months. Travelers should consider the weather conditions when planning their trip.

Overall, while Noyon offers historical charm and a peaceful atmosphere, travelers should be aware of these potential cons before visiting.

Noyon is a commune in the Oise department in the Hauts-de-France region of northern France. It has a rich and varied history, deeply interwoven with the broader historical currents of France.

Early History

Roman Era: Noyon has its origins in the Roman period, when it was known as Noviomagus. It was part of the Roman province of Gallia Belgica.

Middle Ages

Frankish Period: Noyon rose to prominence during the early Middle Ages. It became an important ecclesiastical center when the bishopric was established there in the 6th century.
Coronation of Charlemagne: On December 24, 768, Charlemagne was anointed King of the Franks in Noyon. This was a significant event, marking the beginning of his reign which would eventually lead to the Carolingian Empire.
Hugh Capet: In 987, Hugh Capet, the founder of the Capetian dynasty, was crowned King of France at Noyon, further highlighting the city's importance in medieval French politics.

Renaissance to Early Modern Period

John Calvin: Noyon is the birthplace of John Calvin, born in 1509. Calvin was a key figure in the Protestant Reformation and his teachings led to the development of Calvinism, a major branch of Protestantism.

Modern Period

World War I: Noyon was heavily affected during World War I. It was occupied by German forces and sustained considerable damage during the conflict.
World War II: The town again saw military action during World War II, suffering damage as a result of the German invasion and subsequent liberation.

Landmarks

Noyon Cathedral: The Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Noyon is a key historical landmark. Constructed between the 12th and 13th centuries, it is an excellent example of early Gothic architecture. The cathedral was damaged during both World Wars but has been restored.
John Calvin Museum: Situated in the house where Calvin was born, this museum offers insights into the life and teachings of John Calvin and the history of the Protestant Reformation.
Hôtel de Ville: The Noyon town hall is another notable building, representing the civic architecture of the town.

Noyon's history is marked by its ecclesiastical significance, its role in the coronation of pivotal figures in French history, and its resilience through periods of conflict. Its landmarks, particularly the cathedral, remain testaments to its historical and architectural heritage.