✨ Discover the French cities that start with E

Céline Lambert

Updated on:

ville en e

France is full of hidden treasures. Paris, Lyon, Marseille… too seen? What if you embarked on an original road trip: the cities starting with E! From Épinal to Elbeuf, each has its charm, its heritage, and surprises you don’t suspect.


Why compare cities starting with E? 🗺️

Nothing arbitrary: this selection allows you to:

  • Decipher an original angle of discovery.
  • Explore varied local stories.
  • Add some color to your itinerary.

Can you imagine stumbling upon a medieval city when you were simply thinking of visiting “a city starting with E”? Guaranteed surprise.


🌟 Top cities starting with E to know

Here’s the cream of the crop:

CityDepartmentApprox. PopulationMain Attraction
ÉpinalVosges (88)~32,000Image Museum, castle, river
ÉvreuxEure (27)~50,000Cathedral, lively historic center
EaubonneVal-d’Oise (95)~25,000Green spaces, proximity to Paris
ElbeufSeine-Maritime (76)~30,000Industrial heritage, discreet charm
EnsisheimHaut-Rhin (68)~7,500Meteorite of 1492, local museum
ÉvronMayenne (53)~14,000Abbey, culture, regional events
ÉmerainvilleSeine-et-Marne (77)~13,000Castle, suburban green atmosphere
ÉchirollesIsère (38)~36,000Vibrant suburb of Grenoble
EstevilleSeine-Maritime (76)~1,000Small rural village, castle
ErnéeMayenne (53)~10,000History, resistance, urban planning

Spotlight on the gems of the lot

Épinal, the capital of image

Prefecture of Vosges, it cultivates its reputation thanks to the Image Museum, its medieval streets, its castle, and the Moselle. Ideal for a cultural and romantic stay.

Évreux, between past and modernity

With its impressive Gothic cathedral and lively local life, this city offers a clever blend of history and contemporary dynamism.

Eaubonne, nature pause

Perfect for a gentle getaway, its parks and gardens are a breath of fresh air just steps away from the capital.

Ensisheim, the city of the meteorite

Site of a unique event in 1492, it attracts the curious thanks to its dedicated museum. A place rich in history and mystery.


👉 Other interesting cities

  • Évron (Mayenne): Benedictine abbey, festival, and friendly atmosphere.
  • Elbeuf (Normandy): discovering a rich industrial past.
  • Émerainville: castle and residential character close to Paris.
  • Échirolles: modern suburb at the gates of Grenoble.
  • Esteville: small rural haven, castle, and tranquility.
  • Ernée: cute town center, rich in history, local resistance.

Travel assistance: how to get there & what to do

🚆 Easy access

  • By train: Épinal (TGV from Paris), Évreux, Ernéen.
  • By car: perfect to combine multiple stops.
  • By local transport: Eaubonne (RER A), Émerainville (RER), Échirolles (tram).

📍 What to include in your itinerary?

  1. 1–2 days per city are often enough, except for Épinal (2–3 days).
  2. Alternate cultural visits, hikes, and gourmet getaways.
  3. Think of local markets, cafes, and producers.

🔍 FAQ (for rich snippets)

What are the largest cities starting with E?
Évreux and Épinal are the most populated (>30,000 inhabitants), followed by Échirolles and Eaubonne (~25,000–35,000).

Are there cultural events?
Yes, Épinal hosts “Les Imaginales” (fantasy festival), Évron its sacred arts festival, and [city]… a typical seasonal event.

Which city is suitable for a family getaway?
Eaubonne and Émerainville offer a green, quiet environment suitable for children.

How much time should be planned for visiting?
1 to 3 days depending on your interests – cultural, historical, or nature.


💡 Anecdotes to slip into your suitcase

  • Épinal houses one of the oldest operating printing houses in Europe.
  • The meteorite of Ensisheim (1492) influenced superstitions and traditions.
  • Événeux (Mayenne) was a stronghold of the Resistance during World War II.

✅ Tips for a successful trip

  • Plan an itinerary tailored to the time you have available.
  • Aim for public transport to avoid traffic jams.
  • Stroll in little cafes, markets, and side streets.
  • Capture your stay with photos, a journal, or Instagram.
  • Vary the atmospheres: urban, rural, cultural, natural.