Écusson Old Town - Stopped in Damme, Belgium one morning while biking from Bruges, Belgium to Sluis, Netherlands.
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Écusson Old Town

4.6
·491k reviews·Montpellier, France

Step back in time in Écusson Old Town, a perfectly preserved medieval gem with winding cobblestone streets and historic charm.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Écusson Old Town - Stopped in Damme, Belgium one morning while biking from Bruges, Belgium to Sluis, Netherlands.

Écusson Old Town

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time in Écusson Old Town, a perfectly preserved medieval gem with winding cobblestone streets and historic charm.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Wander through Écusson's narrow streets and discover hidden squares – it's like stepping into a fairytale!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Cobblestone streets are beautiful but can be uneven. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring Écusson!

🗺️ Get Lost (Intentionally!)

The best discoveries are often off the beaten path. Allow yourself to wander and find hidden gems.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Medieval Architecture

Medieval Architecture

Throughout the Old Town

Marvel at centuries-old buildings, charming squares, and hidden courtyards that whisper tales of the past.

Place de l'Ancien Hôtel de Ville

Place de l'Ancien Hôtel de Ville

Central Square

The heart of Écusson, perfect for people-watching and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

Artisan Boutiques

Artisan Boutiques

Various streets

Discover unique crafts, local produce, and souvenirs in the town's delightful independent shops.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Charm of Écusson

Wander through Écusson's narrow, winding streets, a true medieval gem. Prepare for cobblestones and a slower pace. Best explored on foot to soak in the atmosphere.

Timing Your Visit

Écusson is a popular spot, especially during peak tourist seasons. Consider visiting during shoulder months for a more relaxed experience and fewer crowds.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden light, local charm
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

⚠️2 ciudades que no pueden faltar en tu próxima escapada 😜: ✅EDIMBURGO QUE VER 👀 Old Town New Town Museo Nacional Escocia (0€) Catedral St Giles (0€) Monumento a Scott (6€) Castillo Edimburgo (20€) Iglesia Canongate (0€) Palacio Holyrood (20€) Parlamento Escocés (0€) Galería Nacional Escocia (0€) 📷 Spots Instagrameables Calton Hill Victoria Street Catedral San Gil Dean Village Royal Mile ...
@traveltipforyou
31.1K likes • 868.5K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Cobblestone streets are beautiful but can be uneven. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring Écusson! TikTok

🗺️ Get Lost (Intentionally!)

The best discoveries are often off the beaten path. Allow yourself to wander and find hidden gems. Reddit

🍋5 things to do in Menton, South of France: (save for later!!) 🏘️ Old town 🌅 St Michel church and view from its square 🥞 Galettes bretonnes ⛱️ Sablettes beach and the skyline 🍯 The town center boutiques and Confirures Herbin #menton #southoffrance #frenchriviera #thingstodoinmenton
@sagelining
30.3K likes • 762.4K views
4 shops in Edinburgh you have to visit while you’re in the old town but which I had no theme for aha! What are your favourite independent shops in old town? And would you also be interested in more random mash up lists aha? #edinburgh #visitscotland #edinburghscotland
@jeansthoughts
19.6K likes • 364.9K views

📸 Capture the Details

Écusson is incredibly photogenic. Look for charming doorways, flower-filled balconies, and narrow alleyways. TikTok

☕ Savor Local Flavors

Stop at a local café or bakery to enjoy regional specialties and soak in the ambiance. TikTok

reddit.com

Which area do you recommend

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Cobblestone streets are beautiful but can be uneven. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring Écusson! TikTok

🗺️ Get Lost (Intentionally!)

The best discoveries are often off the beaten path. Allow yourself to wander and find hidden gems. Reddit

📸 Capture the Details

Écusson is incredibly photogenic. Look for charming doorways, flower-filled balconies, and narrow alleyways. TikTok

☕ Savor Local Flavors

Stop at a local café or bakery to enjoy regional specialties and soak in the ambiance. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Écusson Old Town for its authentic medieval charm and picturesque streets. The town offers a delightful escape into history, with many appreciating the opportunity to wander through its well-preserved architecture and discover local artisan shops. Some visitors note that it can get crowded during peak season, and comfortable footwear is essential due to the cobblestones.

What People Like

Authentic medieval charm
Picturesque streets
Artisan shops

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Uneven cobblestones

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Écusson is best accessed by car, with parking available on the outskirts of the old town. Public transport options might be limited, so check local bus schedules if you're not driving. Reddit

Absolutely! Écusson is a pedestrian-friendly medieval town. The best way to explore is on foot, so wear comfortable shoes. TikTok

Montpellier is a major city nearby, offering more extensive transport links and accommodation options. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Écusson Old Town is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. You can wander freely through its streets and squares. TikTok

While the town itself is free to explore, individual museums or historical sites within Écusson may have their own admission fees. TikTok

Écusson is accessible at all hours, though shops and restaurants will have their own operating times. Evenings offer a magical, quieter atmosphere. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Look for charming alleyways, historic doorways, flower-draped balconies, and the central squares like Place de l'Ancien Hôtel de Ville. The narrow streets offer unique perspectives. TikTok

Early mornings or late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, minimizing crowds and creating a magical ambiance. TikTok

Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check local ordinances before flying a drone, as many historic town centers have restrictions. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Explore the charming squares and side streets for traditional bistros and cafés. Look for places offering regional specialties. TikTok

While traditional French cuisine can be meat-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan dishes. It's always good to ask. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Écusson Old Town offers a charming, albeit compact, experience for families. The pedestrian-friendly nature of the town makes it safe for children to explore, though keeping a close eye is always recommended due to the narrow streets. Pack comfortable shoes for everyone, as the cobblestones can be tricky for little ones. TikTok

Look for open squares where children can have a bit more space to move around. Stopping for ice cream or a local pastry can be a great way to keep younger travelers happy. While there aren't specific 'kid attractions,' the sheer novelty of a medieval town can be captivating for curious minds. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Écusson Old Town is an ideal destination for solo travelers looking for a picturesque and safe environment to explore at their own pace. The compact nature of the town means you can easily cover a lot of ground without feeling overwhelmed. Reddit

Embrace the freedom to wander, stop for coffee whenever you please, and linger in shops that catch your eye. The friendly atmosphere and the abundance of visual interest make it easy to feel engaged and inspired, even when traveling alone. Consider joining a local walking tour for insights into the town's history. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Medieval Heart

Écusson Old Town is a living testament to medieval architecture, with its narrow, winding streets and ancient stone buildings. As you wander, you'll feel transported back in time. The layout itself tells a story, with its organic growth around defensive structures and marketplaces. Many buildings retain their original charm, featuring characteristic stone facades, wooden shutters, and sometimes even ancient inscriptions. It's a place where every corner turned reveals a new picturesque scene. TikTok

Key to experiencing Écusson is to embrace its pedestrian nature. The cobblestone streets, while beautiful, are best navigated with comfortable shoes. Don't be afraid to stray from the main paths; some of the most enchanting discoveries are found in the quieter, less-traveled alleyways. Look up to admire the architecture, and down to appreciate the worn stones that have been trod for centuries. TikTok

Hidden Courtyards and Squares



Beyond the main thoroughfares, Écusson hides delightful courtyards and small squares that offer moments of tranquility. These spaces often host local artisans or small cafés, providing a perfect spot to rest and absorb the atmosphere. Keep an eye out for unique architectural details, such as ornate doorways or ancient wells, which add to the town's historical narrative. Reddit

Shopping and Local Crafts

Écusson Old Town is a treasure trove for those seeking unique souvenirs and local crafts. Unlike generic tourist shops, many establishments here focus on artisanal products, showcasing the region's creativity and heritage. You'll find everything from handmade ceramics and textiles to local delicacies and regional wines. TikTok

Supporting local businesses is a rewarding part of visiting Écusson. Engaging with shop owners can offer insights into their craft and the history behind their products. Many of these shops are housed in historic buildings, adding to the overall charm of the shopping experience. It’s a chance to find something truly special that reflects the spirit of the town. TikTok

Discovering Unique Finds



When exploring, keep an eye out for shops specializing in regional specialties, such as local olive oils, soaps, or handcrafted jewelry. The atmosphere in these boutiques is often intimate and welcoming, encouraging a leisurely browsing experience. It’s a delightful contrast to the hustle and bustle of larger commercial centers. Reddit

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