Aparthotels in Troyes' Half-Timbered Centre

Le Boudoir is the top-rated aparthotel in Troyes at 9.6, though from about 40 reviews. It is a recently renovated property in a historic building, with soundproofed units, parquet floors and a fully equipped kitchen in each, plus garden and city views, free WiFi and daily housekeeping. It is less than a kilometre from Troyes train station and the town hall, so the half-timbered streets, the cathedral and the covered market are all within walking distance. For couples who want a stylish, quiet apartment in the old centre with daily cleaning included, it is the most attractive choice on the list.

La Flûte enchantée, rated 9.5 from more than 330 reviews, offers the best balance of score and track record. This aparthotel is set in a historic building and has comfortable apartments with private bathrooms, kitchen facilities and air-conditioning, which is welcome in a Champagne summer. Free WiFi and daily housekeeping are included, and the location is less than a kilometre from the station and the town hall. With its larger number of reviews, it is the safest pick for a first visit, whether you come for a weekend in the old town or a few nights touring the vineyards and outlet stores.

Hotel Saint Georges is the largest and most reviewed aparthotel here, with more than 1,200 reviews, but its score of 7.4 is clearly below the other two, so set your expectations accordingly. Its spacious units have fully equipped kitchens, flat-screen TVs and private bathrooms, and some have a seating area or a balcony. There is a garden, breakfast is served daily, and reception is available on request, which suits independent travellers more than those who want a staffed desk. It sits close to Espace Argence, the event venue in the centre, which makes it practical for conferences and shows.

Troyes is best explored on foot. The old centre is packed with half-timbered houses, and the Ruelle des Chats, a lane so narrow the roofs almost touch, is the classic photo. The Cathedral of Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul and the Cité du Vitrail showcase the city's remarkable stained glass, and the Maison de l'Outil et de la Pensée Ouvrière holds a unique collection of hand tools. On the edge of town, the large outlet centres draw shoppers from across France, and the Champagne vineyards of the Côte des Bar are about an hour's drive to the south-east.