Old Town Hyères - a street with a gate and buildings on both sides
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Old Town Hyères

4.4
·21 reviews·Hyères, France

Discover the charming medieval heart of Hyères, with its steep cobbled streets, historic architecture, and breathtaking panoramic views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Beat the midday heat and crowds.

CrowdLow
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Old Town Hyères - a street with a gate and buildings on both sides

Old Town Hyères

Best Time

Morning

Beat the midday heat and crowds.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the charming medieval heart of Hyères, with its steep cobbled streets, historic architecture, and breathtaking panoramic views.

4.4
(21 reviews)

"A beautiful architectural ensemble with a beautiful view of the entire old center of Hyères."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Steep Streets Ahead!

Wear comfortable shoes; the old town has very steep, cobbled streets. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Exterior Appreciation

Many beautiful buildings are best viewed from the outside. Enjoy the architecture! :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Medieval Village Charm

Medieval Village Charm

Old Town Hyères

Wander through steep, cobbled streets and admire the unique medieval architecture.

Saint Paul Collegiate Church

Saint Paul Collegiate Church

Old Town Hyères

A significant historical landmark offering a glimpse into the town's past.

Panoramic Views

Panoramic Views

High ground in Old Town

Enjoy breathtaking views over the old center and the entire town of Hyères.

16th-Century Porch

16th-Century Porch

Old Town Hyères

Admire this unique building with turrets, a testament to centuries of architectural evolution.

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Planning Your Visit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The old town of Hyères features steep, cobbled streets ('calades'). Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring without discomfort. Be prepared for inclines as you navigate the medieval layout.

Exterior Views are Key

While the architectural ensemble is stunning, many of its most unique buildings, like the 16th-century porch, can only be admired from the outside. Plan to enjoy the visual beauty and historical ambiance.

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Beat the midday heat and crowds.
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour light enhances views.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

What to do in Peñiscola with my gf

👟 Steep Streets Ahead!

Wear comfortable shoes; the old town has very steep, cobbled streets. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Exterior Appreciation

Many beautiful buildings are best viewed from the outside. Enjoy the architecture! :camerawithflash:

reddit.com

Peñíscola, Spain

reddit.com

Peñíscola Castle, Castellón, Spain

🗺️ Explore Beyond the Main Square

Wander off the main paths to discover hidden alleys and charming corners. :world_map:

reddit.com

Peniscola Castle - Castellon, Spain

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Steep Streets Ahead!

Wear comfortable shoes; the old town has very steep, cobbled streets. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Exterior Appreciation

Many beautiful buildings are best viewed from the outside. Enjoy the architecture! :camerawithflash:

🗺️ Explore Beyond the Main Square

Wander off the main paths to discover hidden alleys and charming corners. :world_map:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(21 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the old town of Hyères for its beautiful medieval architecture and stunning panoramic views. The steep, cobbled streets add to its charm, though they require comfortable footwear. While many buildings are best admired from the outside, the overall historical ambiance is highly appreciated.

"Close to the Saint Paul collegiate church. To access the city, wear good shoes. You have to take very steep calades.
Beautiful architectural ensemble that I was not able to visit. It seems to me that the whole is occupied by apartments. From the square, a beautiful view of Hyères."

ginou hp

"Very pretty place on a small square on high ground. With a beautiful view of the entire old center of Hyères."

Guim94

"A beautiful view of the medieval village of Hyères, featuring this very unique building. It can only be seen from the outside."

Alessandro Tarable

What People Like

Beautiful medieval architecture
Stunning panoramic views
Historic ambiance

What People Dislike

Steep, cobbled streets
Exterior viewing only

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The old town of Hyères is situated on a hill. You can typically reach it by car, with parking available nearby, or by public transport that stops at the base of the hill. From there, it's a walk up into the historic center. Reddit

Yes, there are parking areas available near the old town of Hyères. However, during peak season, these can fill up quickly. It's advisable to arrive early or consider public transport. Reddit

Yes, it's a walkable distance from the lower parts of Hyères to the old town, but be prepared for an uphill climb. The streets are steep and can be challenging for some. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the old town of Hyères is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely wander through its streets and squares. Reddit

The old town itself doesn't have official opening hours as it's a residential and commercial area. However, individual shops and attractions within the old town will have their own operating times. Reddit

The Saint Paul collegiate church is a key landmark within the old town. While access to the church itself might have specific visiting hours, the exterior is always visible. Reddit

Many of the most striking architectural elements, like the 16th-century porch, are best viewed from the outside and do not have an admission fee. Some interiors might have fees if they are museums or private residences. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The best way to explore is on foot, allowing you to discover its charm. Wear comfortable shoes due to the steep, cobbled streets. Take your time to soak in the medieval atmosphere. Reddit

Don't miss the Saint Paul collegiate church, the panoramic views from the high ground, and the unique 16th-century porch. Wandering through the narrow 'calades' is an experience in itself. Reddit

Due to its steep, cobbled streets and inclines, the old town can be challenging for those with mobility issues. It's best to be prepared for a strenuous walk. Reddit

Yes, the old town is situated on high ground, offering beautiful views over the surrounding area and the rest of Hyères. Look for designated viewpoints or simply enjoy the vistas from various squares. Reddit

Expect a charming, historic atmosphere with medieval architecture, narrow streets, and a sense of stepping back in time. It's a picturesque and tranquil area, especially outside of peak tourist times. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Look for picturesque street scenes with the steep 'calades', the Saint Paul collegiate church, and the panoramic views from the higher points. The 16th-century porch also makes for a unique shot. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, avoiding harsh midday sun and creating a more atmospheric feel. The golden hour can make the medieval architecture glow. Reddit

Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography in the public areas of the old town. However, always be respectful of private residences and any signage indicating no photography inside specific buildings. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Exploring the old town of Hyères with children requires preparation. The steep, cobbled streets can be challenging for little legs, so consider a stroller with good suspension or a carrier for younger children. Reddit The novelty of narrow alleys and historic buildings might capture their imagination, but keep an eye on them as there are many inclines and drops.

Focus on the more open squares and the panoramic viewpoints, which can be exciting for kids. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities might be spread out. The experience is more about the journey and the views than specific child-centric attractions. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Explorers

The old town of Hyères is a wonderful destination for solo travelers. Its compact nature and pedestrian-friendly (albeit steep!) streets make it easy to navigate and explore at your own pace. Reddit You can truly immerse yourself in the historical atmosphere, stopping to admire details and enjoy the views without feeling rushed.

The safety of the area is generally good, allowing for a relaxed exploration. Don't hesitate to wander off the main paths to discover hidden gems. The panoramic views offer moments of quiet contemplation, perfect for a solo traveler. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Medieval Streets

The old town of Hyères is a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets known as 'calades'. These ancient pathways are characterized by their steep inclines and cobblestone surfaces, demanding sturdy footwear. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the full charm of the medieval village involves a fair amount of walking uphill. Reddit The layout is designed for pedestrian exploration, encouraging visitors to get lost and discover hidden courtyards and architectural details.

The historical significance of these streets is palpable, offering a glimpse into centuries past. While many buildings are now residential, their facades and the overall urban fabric tell a story of medieval life. The Saint Paul collegiate church stands as a prominent landmark within this historic setting, a testament to the town's enduring heritage. Reddit

For those who enjoy a good walk and appreciate historical ambiance, the old town provides a rewarding experience. The steepness is part of its character, contributing to the unique atmosphere and the stunning panoramic views that await at higher elevations. Reddit

Architectural Gems to Admire

The old town of Hyères boasts a rich architectural tapestry, with several structures standing out for their historical and aesthetic value. The 16th-century porch, topped by turrets and enlarged over time, is a particularly unique sight. While it can only be viewed from the exterior, its distinctive design is a highlight for many visitors. Reddit This building exemplifies the layered history of the town, showcasing modifications and expansions across different eras.

Beyond this specific structure, the entire medieval village presents a cohesive architectural ensemble. Visitors often remark on the beauty of the buildings and the overall picturesque quality of the town. Reddit The views from the higher points in the old town are also a significant draw, offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape and the lower parts of Hyères. Reddit

While many of these historical buildings are private residences, their exteriors contribute significantly to the charm and visual appeal of the old town. The experience is largely about appreciating the external beauty and the historical context of these structures. Reddit

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