Bar-sur-Aube is a small town in the southern part of Champagne. Set on the River Aube at the foot of the Sainte-Germaine hill, it lies in the Côte des Bar, a land of vineyards and family champagne houses, about 47 km east of Troyes. In the Middle Ages it was one of the six towns of the famous Champagne fairs.
Why visit Bar-sur-Aube
Come for champagne without the crowds, medieval heritage and green hills, with Troyes and the memorial of Colombey-les-Deux-Églises nearby.
Things to see in and around Bar-sur-Aube
The medieval town
Bar-sur-Aube grew rich thanks to the Champagne fairs, where merchants from Flanders and Italy traded spices, silk and cloth from the 12th century. Explore its old streets, the church of Saint-Pierre and the church of Saint-Maclou.
The Sainte-Germaine hill
Climb the colline Sainte-Germaine above the town for views over the Aube valley and the vineyards.
Champagne cellars of the Côte des Bar
The Côte des Bar produces a large share of all champagne. Many small producers welcome visitors for tastings – book ahead.
Colombey-les-Deux-Églises
The village where Charles de Gaulle lived and is buried, with its large Cross of Lorraine and a memorial museum, is a short drive away.
Troyes
Troyes, with its half-timbered old town and its stained-glass churches, is about an hour away.
Best time to visit
May to October, with the grape harvest in September.
Getting there
Bar-sur-Aube station is on the Paris-Est – Mulhouse line, with regional trains to Troyes and Paris. The A5 motorway passes nearby (exit 3, Colombey). A car is best for the vineyards.
What to eat and drink
Champagne of the Côte des Bar, rosé des Riceys, Chaource cheese and andouillette de Troyes.
FAQ
Is Bar-sur-Aube in the Champagne region?
Yes – it is in the Côte des Bar, the southern vineyard area of Champagne.
How far is Bar-sur-Aube from Troyes?
About 50 km, roughly an hour by car.
