Sens Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Locality

Facts and practical information

Located in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of France, Sens is a charming commune that offers visitors a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its rich heritage, picturesque landscapes, and warm hospitality, Sens promises an unforgettable experience for all travelers.

One of the main attractions in Sens is its stunning Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Saint-Étienne. Dating back to the 12th century, this architectural masterpiece is a testament to the city's medieval past. Step inside and marvel at the intricate stained glass windows, towering pillars, and ornate carvings that adorn the cathedral. Climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city, and don't forget to visit the crypt, which houses the relics of Saint Savinien.

For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Musée de Sens is a must. Housed in a former archbishop's palace, this museum showcases a vast collection of artifacts that span centuries. From Roman artifacts to medieval tapestries, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's past. Be sure to explore the museum's beautiful gardens, which provide a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.

Nature lovers will find solace in Sens' many parks and gardens. The Jardin des Plantes, with its vibrant flowers and serene ponds, is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. Alternatively, head to the Parc du Moulin à Tan, a sprawling park that offers picnic spots, walking trails, and even a small zoo. Pack a picnic and spend a sunny afternoon enjoying the tranquility of nature.

No visit to Sens would be complete without indulging in the region's culinary delights. From traditional Burgundian dishes to local wines, the city is a food lover's paradise. Explore the charming streets and discover cozy bistros and restaurants that serve up mouthwatering specialties like boeuf bourguignon and escargots. Pair your meal with a glass of Chablis or Pinot Noir for an authentic taste of the region.

Alternative names: Population: 28.7 thous. (2019)Area: 8.46 mi²Elevation: 256 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 48°11'51"N, 3°16'57"E

Location

Bourgogne-Franche-ComtéFrance

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Sens Top Attractions

Sens Attractions - What to See and Explore

Sens offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Sens Cathedral, Church of St. Pierre le Rond, Musées de Sens, Serres municipales de Sens. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Gothic icon with stained-glass windows
Sens Cathedral
Sens Cathedral is a Catholic cathedral in Sens in Burgundy, eastern France. The cathedral, dedicated to Saint Stephen, is the seat of the Archbishop of Sens. Sens was the first Cathedral to be built in the Gothic architectural style. The choir was begun between 1135 and 1140, shortly before Notre Dame de Paris.
Church
Church of St. Pierre le Rond
The church of St. Pierre le Rond is a Catholic church in Sens, Yonne, at 115 kilometers South West from Paris. It is dedicated to Saint Peter and is a church of the Archdiocese of Sens-Auxerre.
Art museum • History museum • Museum
Musées de Sens
The Musées de Sens are situated in the former Archbishops' palace of the town of Sens in the French department of Yonne, in Burgundy.

Botanical garden
Serres municipales de Sens
The Serres municipales de Sens are municipal greenhouses located in the Parc du Moulin à Tan at 28, Chemin de Babie, Sens, Yonne, Bourgogne, France. They are open every afternoon without charge.
Memorial • Gothic architecture
Saint Thomas Becket window in Sens Cathedral
The Saint Thomas Becket window in Sens Cathedral is an early 13th century stained glass window in Sens Cathedral. Noted as a monument historique, it is five metres high by two metres wide. Its designer's name is unknown.
Sacred and religious sites • Historical place • Museum
Palais Synodal
The Synodal Palace is located in Sens in the Yonne in Burgundy-Franche-Comté. It is a state property that was classified as a historical monument in 1862 and restored by Eugene Viollet-le-Duc.
Church
Église Sainte-Mathie
The Sainte-Mathie church, until the 19th century Saint-Didier church, is a church located boulevard Maupeou in Sens, in the department of Yonne.
Church
St. Maurice Church
The Saint-Maurice church is a Catholic church located in Sens, France, rue de l'Île d'Yonne. It depends on the archdiocese of Sens-Auxerre. It is only open a few days a year. But now masses are celebrated there every Saturday at 6:30 pm.
Church
Église Saint-Savinien-le-Jeune
The church Saint-Savinien-le-Jeune de Sens is a church dedicated to Saint Savinien, located in Sens, in the Yonne department, in Burgundy. Former chapel of the convent of Penitents, it became a parish church in 1826.
Church
Église Saint-Savinien
The Saint-Savinien basilica or Saint-Savinien-le-Vieux church is a religious building located on rue Alsace-Lorraine in Sens, honoring Saint Savinien, reputed to be the first bishop of Sens.
Church
Église Saint-Preigts
The Saint-Pregts church is a Catholic church located in Sens, in the French department of Yonne in northern Burgundy, France. It is dedicated to Saint Priest.
Church
Carmel
The Carmel of Sens was one of the first Carmelites to be founded in France on July 2, 1625. The convent is located 149 rue de la Résistance in Sens and is still inhabited by a community of Carmelites.

Day trips

Sens – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Sens, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Château de Fontainebleau (Fontainebleau), Fontainebleau rock climbing, Church of Saint-Julien-de-Brioude.

30 milesNW
, Museum, History museum
Château de Fontainebleau, Fontainebleau
Nestled in the heart of the quaint town of Fontainebleau, France, lies the historic Château de Fontainebleau, a grand palace that has been the residence of French monarchs spanning eight centuries. This majestic structure is not just a palace but a tapestry of French...
34 milesNW
Climbing
Fontainebleau rock climbing
Fontainebleau, a storied rock climbing destination nestled in the French countryside, has become a mecca for climbers around the globe. Known for its unique sandstone boulders and forested setting, this climbing spot offers a vast array of challenges for both novice...
50 milesNW
Church
Church of Saint-Julien-de-Brioude
The Church of Saint-Julien-de-Brioude is a historical gem nestled in the heart of France, embodying the rich religious and architectural heritage of the region. This sacred site, dating back several centuries, serves not only as a place of worship but also as a...
31 milesSE
Church, Gothic architecture
Church of Saint-Eusèbe, Auxerre
The Church of Saint-Eusèbe is a Roman Catholic church in Auxerre, France. It belongs to the monastery of Saint-Eusèbe founded by Saint Palladius, the Bishop of Auxerre from 622 to 657. The church was listed as a Class Historic Monument in 1862.
27 milesW
Forts and castles, Art museum, Museum
Château de Nemours, Nemours
The Château de Nemours is a castle in the town and commune of Nemours in the Seine-et-Marne département of France. Located in the extreme south of the Paris conurbation, it stands on the banks of the Loing river. Transformed into a museum between 1903 and 1999, it houses collections of pottery.