Attractions and Places To See around Valence - Top 20

Valence is rich in history. You can visit the stunning 11th-century Cathédrale Saint-Apollinaire, the 16th-century Renaissance mansion Maison des Têtes with its unique sculpted facade, and Le Pendentif, a distinct Renaissance funerary monument from 1548. Don't miss wandering through the medieval streets of the Old Town (Vieux Valence) to discover picturesque squares and hidden courtyards. For a broader historical perspective, the Saint-Antoine Chapel of Saint-Antoine also offers significant historical and religious insights, housing relics and featuring the T-cross (Tau) of the Antonites.

Yes, Valence offers several family-friendly spots. Parc Jouvet is an expansive green space with exotic plants, flowerbeds, and canals, perfect for relaxing strolls. Parc Jean-Perdrix, covering 26 hectares, features a lake and walking trails. The Auvillar Circular Market Hall and the village of Auvillar itself are also considered family-friendly, offering a charming setting to explore. Additionally, the Suspension bridge over the Garonne provides beautiful views and picnic spots.

Valence boasts beautiful natural spaces. Parc Jouvet offers stunning views of the Rhône River and surrounding mountains. Parc Jean-Perdrix includes a lake and walking trails. The city is also known for its unique network of canals. The Esplanade du Champ de Mars provides open green space and views over the Rhône, while Port de l'Épervière, France's largest river marina, is set within a park with an arboretum and orchard.

For breathtaking views, head to the Crussol Castle Ruins across the Rhône River, which offer panoramic vistas of the Rhône Valley. Parc Jouvet also provides elevated positions with stunning views of the river and mountains. The Suspension bridge over the Garonne offers beautiful views of the village of Auvillar and the river, and the old castle square in Auvillar provides a magnificent perspective of the Garonne and its valley.

The Musée de Valence (Museum of Art and Archaeology), housed in a former episcopal palace, features collections spanning 4,000 years and offers panoramic views from its rooftop. The Armenian Heritage Centre is dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of the Armenian community. You can also experience local culture at Les Halles Market and the atmospheric Place des Clercs.

Absolutely! The ViaRhôna is a scenic cycle path running along the Rhône River, suitable for all levels. For more structured activities, you can explore numerous routes. For cycling, check out the Cycling around Valence guide, which includes routes like the 'Garonne Valley Loop'. If you prefer hiking, the Hiking around Valence guide offers trails such as the 'Auvillar – Auvillar Circular Market Hall loop'. There are also running trails available in the area; find more details in the Running Trails around Valence guide.

Valence showcases a blend of architectural styles. The Maison des Têtes is a prime example of 16th-century Renaissance architecture with its sculpted facade. Le Pendentif is a unique Renaissance funerary monument. The Kiosque Peynet is a charming 19th-century bandstand. You can also find the distinctive Orientalism-inspired Maison Mauresque and the impressive Romanesque Cathédrale Saint-Apollinaire. The Auvillar Circular Market Hall is a notable example of unique architectural heritage.

Valence is known for its vibrant culinary scene, ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy bistros. Be sure to try local specialties like the 'Suisse' (a shortbread biscuit) and 'ravioles du Dauphiné'. Culinary enthusiasts might also be interested in the Maison Pic Cooking School. For fresh local produce and artisanal goods, visit Les Halles Market.

Yes, you can explore the majestic Rhône River from a unique perspective with scenic cruises. These offer views of the city's skyline and the beautiful landscapes of the Rhône Valley, providing a relaxing way to see the area.

Auvillar is a picturesque settlement ranked among the most beautiful villages in France. It's a pilgrim city with pink stone walls, overlooking the Garonne river. Key features include its superb circular grain market, an imposing church with a rose window, and an old castle square offering breathtaking views of the river and valley.

Visitors particularly appreciate the unique architectural heritage, such as the Auvillar Circular Market Hall, and the charm of picturesque settlements like Auvillar with its pink stone walls and views of the Garonne. The historical significance of sites like the Saint-Antoine Chapel of Saint-Antoine and the beautiful views from the Suspension bridge over the Garonne are also highly rated.

Yes, the Suspension bridge over the Garonne is an Eiffel-style bridge offering beautiful views of Auvillar and the Garonne. It's also a great spot for technically interested hikers to see the steel cable fastenings up close. Another notable bridge is the Bridge at the confluence of the Tarn and the Garonne, located near the St Nicolas de la Grave leisure center, known for its rich fauna and flora.