Visit
Joinville
in Champagne-Ardenne
A Hidden Gem in Grand Est, France
Looking for a peaceful escape with a touch of history and nature? Joinville offers just that – a charming riverside town full of character and surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and authentic French culture.
Why Stay in Joinville?
Because it’s real, slow, and authentic. Far from the tourist crowds, yet rich in experience. Whether you’re traveling and in need of a peaceful pause in your journey, or maybe looking to disconnect, reconnect or just breathe – Joinville welcomes you.
Scroll down to see what awaits you!
BookThings to see & do in Joinville
Château du Grand Jardin
A Renaissance pleasure château (16th century) built by Claude de Lorraine, first Duke of Guise, with a Renaissance garden and a large park – perfect for a stroll or picnic. In July and August there are open-air concerts on Thursday evenings.
Website →Historic Town Center
Wander through narrow streets, admire half-timbered houses and soak up the old-world charm of this “Petite Cité de Caractère”. The tourist office organises guided town walks.
Website →The Auditoire
A rare surviving courthouse and prison from 1561, built by the Guise family. Today it tells the story of justice and of the lords of Joinville.
Website →Chapelle Sainte-Anne & the castle hill
Admire the 16th-century stained glass of the Sainte-Anne chapel, then climb to the remains of the old fortress for a beautiful view over the town and the Marne valley.
The River Marne
Ideal for quiet walks along the banks, picnics, or a bit of fishing.
Local Artisan Shops & Markets
Discover handmade goods, regional foods and seasonal produce at the markets. In December the town lights up with its Christmas market, “Joinville Étincelle”.
Joinville in pictures
Activities in the surrounding area
Forest Walks & Nature Trails
Marked hiking and cycling routes through the forests around Joinville.
Cycling along the canal (V53)
The flat towpath of the Canal entre Champagne et Bourgogne runs right through Joinville. Joinville – Chaumont is about 50 km, easy and suitable for families.
Website →Lac du Der (45 min drive)
One of Europe’s largest artificial lakes: beaches, water sports and bike paths. With some 330 bird species it is a top spot for birdwatching – in autumn thousands of cranes stop here.
Website →Visit to Colombey-les-Deux-Églises
Learn about French history at the Charles de Gaulle Memorial at the foot of the giant Cross of Lorraine, and see La Boisserie, the General’s family home (30 min away).
Website →Château de Cirey (30 min drive)
The château where Voltaire lived from 1734 to 1749 with Émilie du Châtelet. Guided tours include his little private theatre; open in summer.
Website →Champagne Route
Drive through vineyards, visit local cellars, and taste authentic Champagne just over an hour away.
Website →Forêts National Park (approx. 1 hour)
France’s newest national park (2019), protecting vast broadleaf forests between Champagne and Burgundy. Marked walks, rivers and total silence.
Website →Chaumont (40 min drive)
The capital of Haute-Marne, known for its impressive railway viaduct, its basilica and Le Signe, the national centre for graphic design.
Website →Wildlife & Bird Watching
The region is home to cranes, deer, wild boar, and more – perfect for nature lovers.
Practical information
Getting here
Joinville has its own railway station, about 3 hours from Paris by TGV and regional TER. By car, Joinville lies in the heart of Haute-Marne, between Saint-Dizier and Chaumont.
Website →Tourist office
At the Château du Grand Jardin, 5 avenue de la Marne, Joinville – tel. +33 3 25 94 17 54. For opening hours, guided tours and events.
Website →