Climb the Medieval Ramparts of the Upper Town

Perched high above the Picardy plains, Laon's historic center is known as the Montagne Couronnée (Crowned Mountain). Because the old automatic funicular cable car permanently ceased operations, reaching the upper town requires either driving up narrow medieval streets, taking local bus Line 1, or walking up the historic stone staircases known as grimpettes.

If arriving by train at the lower station, prepare for a steep walk up the Grimpette de Saint-Martin. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding medieval walls, but sturdy footwear is essential. For those driving, park at the free lot near the lower train station or search for spots along the outer ramparts, as parking inside the walled center fills up quickly on weekends.