Épinal, Administrative center in Vosges, France
Épinal is an administrative center in the Vosges department in northeastern France and sits on both banks of the Moselle River. The town divides into several quarters, including the old town, the station district, and newer residential areas on gentle hills.
A monastic settlement arose here in the 10th century and was later taken over by French rulers. Control shifted several times between the French crown and the Duchy of Lorraine, until the town finally became part of France.
The name comes from a medieval monastic settlement and today the old town still shows narrow lanes with old sandstone houses. Residents meet in the squares along the river, where small shops and cafés shape daily life.
Access is through several roads and the town center is easy to explore on foot. Those who wish to visit the surrounding area can reach other places in the department from here.
Every winter a fir tree over 14 meters tall is erected in a central square, brought from the surrounding forests. The tradition draws many visitors and marks the start of the holiday season in the region.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
