Romans-sur-Isère is the French capital of shoemaking. This Drôme town on the Isère river grew rich on leather and shoes, and today it combines a historic centre, a unique museum and some of the best-loved specialities of the region.
Why visit Romans-sur-Isère
For heritage, food and shopping, and as a base between the Rhône valley and the Vercors mountains. It is a lively, unpretentious town with easy access by TGV.
Top things to do in Romans-sur-Isère
The International Shoe Museum
Housed in a former convent, the Musée international de la Chaussure shows thousands of shoes from all over the world and every era.
The old town
Lanes around the Collégiale Saint-Barnard, a Romanesque and Gothic church by the river, and the Jacquemart clock tower.
Outlet shopping
Marques Avenue and local workshops keep the shoemaking tradition alive, with brands and factory shops.
The Vercors
Within an hour: limestone cliffs, gorges, caves and the dramatic roads of the Vercors Regional Natural Park.
The Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval
About 30 km north, in Hauterives, the extraordinary dream palace built stone by stone by a country postman.
Best time to visit Romans-sur-Isère
Spring to autumn is ideal. Summers are warm and sunny; around Easter the bakeries are full of the traditional pogne.
Getting to and around Romans-sur-Isère
Valence TGV station is about 10 km away, with direct trains to Paris, Lyon and Marseille; local trains stop at Romans–Bourg-de-Péage. Grenoble airport is about an hour away. A car is useful for the Vercors.
What to eat in Romans-sur-Isère
The pogne, a brioche scented with orange blossom, and ravioles du Dauphiné, tiny pasta filled with cheese and parsley, plus walnuts from Grenoble and wines of the Rhône valley.
Romans-sur-Isère FAQ
Is Romans-sur-Isère a good base for the Vercors?
Yes: the first villages and gorges are about 30 to 45 minutes away by car.
How far is Valence?
About 20 km, around 20 minutes by car or train.
