The town of Gray

Gray invites you to take a trip back in time through its rich architectural heritage. This charming town on the banks of the River Saône is home to some real historical treasures. From the Notre-Dame basilica to the elegant town hall, Gray offers an exceptional range of monuments to explore.

Getting there

Between charm and heritage

The river Saône runs through Gray, giving the town its undeniable charm. One of Gray’s architectural treasures is the Basilique Notre-Dame, a Gothic building dating from the 15th-16th centuries, which is an immediate eye-catcher. When you arrive in Gray, you’ll be able to see it in the distance. This emblematic monument invites you to contemplate and marvel.

Just a stone’s throw from the basilica, the town hall, with its brightly-coloured glazed tile roof reminiscent of the Burgundian tradition, is one of the most remarkable Renaissance buildings in Franche-Comté. The building is adorned with an engraved and painted sundial, adding a touch of elegance to its imposing architecture. The main façade is around 37 metres long, with two bays elegantly punctuated by columns. It opens onto the square with nine magnificent semi-circular arches.

If you’d like to find out more about Gray’s heritage, the Val de Gray Tourist Office offers guided tours, bookable in advance. These tours reveal fascinating details about the history of Gray and its monuments.

Hidden treasures to discover

Another must-see is the Hôtel-Dieu, a former hospital whose building permit was signed by Louis XIV himself. This historic building bears witness to Gray’s importance at the time and its strategic role in the region.

Within the building, the chapel and apothecary dating from 1722 are major points of interest. The apothecary is notable for its wood panelling and 119 earthenware medicine jars.

The upper town, rich in heritage, is home to the Saint-Pierre Fourier tower. This pivoting staircase, the only one of its kind in France, leads to a small Renaissance room where Pierre Fourier, a priest from Lorraine and champion of the Catholic Reformation, was forced to flee Lorraine in 1936. Once turned, the staircase conceals access to this secret room.

Discover the city

Aerial view of the l'Audacieux river boat on the Saône at Gray — ©Bateau l'Audacieux|Vedettes du Val de Saône

A man consults the navigation chart on the Saône on board his boat - River tourism on the Saône - Vesoul-Val de Saône — ©Sailing on the Saône|BothBetter

The Saône from every angle

Today, Gray’s harbour is used exclusively for pleasure boating. This was not always the case. A first port, dating from the 12th century, bears witness to the interest shown in the course of the Saône. A larger port, and then a quay, were established in the 15th and 17th centuries. The early 19th century saw the appearance of masonry quays. This was the town’s golden age.

During your self-guided cruise on the Saône, be sure to stop off at the port of Gray, the ideal starting point for exploring the town. You’ll find all the amenities you need for a comfortable and pleasant stopover.

You can also board the l’Audacieux boat for a guided cruise. One of the highlights of this cruise is passing through a lock, a fascinating experience for young and old alike.

Freewheeling on La Voie Bleue

For cycling and slow-touring enthusiasts, the Voie Bleue cycle route is a must. The route passes through Gray along the banks of the Saône, offering a peaceful and pleasant way to discover the town. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views over Gray, while adopting a slower, more soothing pace of discovery.

Cycling on the Voie Bleue

A visit at the Baron Martin Museum

The Baron Martin Museum of Art and Archaeology is also well worth a visit. Housed in a former castle, this museum traces six centuries of European art and boasts an impressive collection of works of art.

Discover

A stopover on the banks of the Saône

With its emblematic monuments, such as the Notre-Dame basilica and the town hall, the town of Gray offers a unique experience for those wishing to explore its charm. The beauty of the river Saône, its quays and its leisure activities also make it an ideal place to relax.