Friends, ready for a small French city that punches above its weight? Évreux blends stately architecture with leafy waterways and ancient archaeology, all within an hour or so of Paris.

You'll find handsome squares, a story-rich palace-turned-museum, and bikeable greenways that slip into the countryside. Here's how to see the best of Évreux—clearly, calmly, and on a sensible budget.

Arrival Tips

From Paris–Saint-Lazare, TER trains reach Évreux in about 1h10; advance fares often land between $12–$30 one way. The station sits a 10–12-minute walk from the historic center. If you're driving, expect city-center parking around $1–$2/hour with day caps near $10.

Grand Square

Start at Place Général-de-Gaulle, where a fountain and formal facades set the tone. Snap the ornate belfry and the Italianate theater, then pivot toward the Maison des Arts and town hall. Early morning light shows off the pale stone and wrought-iron balconies beautifully.

Palace Museum

Slip into the former episcopal palace, now the Musée d'Évreux (usually free or $4–$6 for temporary shows; plan 60–90 minutes). Galleries jump from Gallo-Roman finds to 19th–20th-century canvases (expect Normandy seascapes and modernist color), plus sculpture and textiles. Architecture fans—pause in the courtyard to admire turrets, dormers, and mullioned windows.

Belfry Views

One of France's southernmost traditional belfries anchors the center. While interior access is limited, the 44-meter tower photographs best from across the water mirror near the palace. Come at golden hour for reflections that double the drama.

Water Mirror Walk

Trace the Iton River through town. You'll pass old mills, tiny washhouses, and footbridges—a quiet, free loop ideal for families. Detour to the Moulin de Navarre, a fine example of riverside industry, then continue to pocket parks for benches and people-watching.

Roman Baths

Ten minutes by car or 15–20 minutes by bus toward Vieil-Évreux, the archaeological park of Gisacum reveals a vast thermal complex. The interpretation center (March–November) explains daily life and bath engineering; entry is typically $5–$8. Allow 60–75 minutes to explore paths and foundations without rushing.

Old Walls

Évreux's late-antique ramparts peek out along Rue Saint-Louis and near the media library. For the most photogenic angle, stand by the water mirror beneath the palace: you'll catch the curve of surviving wall lines and a sweep of pink-tinged stone.

Maison des Arts

This 19th-century showpiece now hosts studios, classes, and rotating exhibitions (often free; open select weekdays). Pop in for a quick 20-minute browse and a feel for local creativity, then step back outside for symmetrical facade shots.

Greenway Ride

Hop on the Voie Verte Évreux–Le Bec-Hellouin, a paved greenway along a former rail line. Rent a bike in town (from about $18–$28/day) and pedal through hedgerows and pastures without traffic. Pack water and a snack; shaded stretches make this pleasant even in midsummer.

Tree-Top Fun

Traveling with kids—or kids at heart? Arbr'en Ciel, five minutes from town, strings zip-lines and rope bridges through mature oak forest. Sessions run 2–3 hours; prices usually $18–$28 per person with all safety gear included. Reserve in school holidays and wear closed shoes.

Market Mornings

On Wednesday and Saturday mornings, central streets fill with stalls. Build a picnic from apples, soft cheeses, crusty bread, and confections (look for local pralines with nougat centers). Typical spend for two: $12–$18. It's also the best time to people-watch and practice your "Bonjour!"

Art & Architecture Stroll

Follow an easy loop linking the belfry, palace courtyard, the theater, and the Maison des Arts. Keep an eye on details—carved lintels, ironwork, and chalk-stone ornament. The core is compact: 45–60 minutes covers it with photo stops.

Family Hour

For a calm, kid-friendly hour, pair the Iton footpath with a pastry run: many bakeries nearby offer flaky chaussons aux pommes and pain au chocolat for $2–$3. Pocket parks along the river have benches and flowerbeds—ideal for a sugar-boosted breather.

Easy Day Trips

Base in Évreux and branch out:

• Giverny (about 45 minutes by car; bus options via Vernon): linger in painterly gardens and color-washed rooms. Timed tickets from $13–$15.

• Lyons-la-Forêt (about 50 minutes): a timber-framed village with a covered market and forest walks. Free to wander.

• Rouen old town (about 1 hour): half-timbered streets, museums, and riverfront promenades; train or car both work.

Where to Stay

Midrange hotels and apartments near the center typically run $85–$140/night; breakfast adds $10–$15. For drivers, look for properties with on-site or partner parking. If you prefer quiet, request a courtyard-facing room.

Practical Notes

Most attractions are walkable; bring comfy shoes. Many venues close for lunch (12:30–14:00), so time museum visits for morning or late afternoon. Card payments are widely accepted; markets appreciate small change. English is understood in tourist spots, but a few French phrases go a long way.

Conclusion

Évreux rewards slow wandering—grand squares, reflective waterways, and a remarkable palace museum, with Roman intrigue and greenways at the edges. Which calls to you first: a market picnic by the Iton, a bike ride into hedgerow country, or a quiet hour amid archaeology? Tell your travel dates and pace, and a custom, hour-by-hour itinerary can be sketched to fit.