Things To Do
in Allonnes

Allonnes is a charming commune in the Sarthe department of France, known for its serene environment and rich history. Nestled close to Le Mans, it offers a blend of rural charm and urban convenience. The area boasts beautiful parks, historical architecture, and a welcoming community.

Visitors can enjoy a peaceful retreat while still being close to major attractions in the region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Allonnes
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through Parc du Château, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and perhaps a picnic breakfast.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere, where you can sample local produce and crafts.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy traditional French cuisine, followed by a leisurely walk to enjoy the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Le Mans
morning
:

Take a short trip to Le Mans and visit the famous Cathédrale Saint-Julien, an architectural marvel.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic district of Le Mans, known as Cité Plantagenêt, to see medieval buildings and charming streets.

evening
:

Return to Allonnes for a relaxed dinner at a café, followed by a visit to a local bar for some live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🥖Baguette$1
🍷Glass of local wine$5
🚍Bus ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
  • Rich historical heritage and nearby attractions.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming community.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be less frequent.
  • Some attractions may have limited opening hours.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
  • "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Allonnes

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc du Château

Beautiful gardens and architecture make this park an ideal spot for capturing nature and history.

Cité Plantagenêt

The medieval buildings and cobblestone streets offer stunning backdrops for photography.

Local Markets

Vibrant colors and local life provide excellent candid photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Allonnes

Allonnes offers a delightful culinary experience where visitors can savor traditional French dishes made from local ingredients.

Allonnes Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rillettes

A pork spread typical of the region, perfect for tasting on fresh bread.

Must-Try!

Sarthe Lamb

Locally raised lamb known for its tenderness and flavor, often featured in stews.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché d'Allonnes

A local market held weekly, offering fresh produce, cheeses, and regional specialties.

Food Trucks

Occasionally found in town, offering quick bites like crêpes and galettes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Allonnes experiences a temperate climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 3°C (37°F) in January to 24°C (75°F) in July. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat, especially in the autumn and spring months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Always greet with 'Bonjour' during the day and 'Bonsoir' in the evening.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before starting your meal.

Dress Code

Dress smartly, especially when dining out, as the French value good presentation.

Safety Guide

Safety

Allonnes is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's always wise to remain vigilant, particularly in crowded areas. Basic safety precautions, such as safeguarding personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night, are advisable.

Tipping in Allonnes

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

A service charge is typically included in the bill, but rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, although carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a lovely time to explore outdoor attractions.

Summer

Warm weather is perfect for outdoor dining and festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

The fall foliage adds beauty to parks and countryside, making it a picturesque time for photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures can be expected, and while snow is rare, the festive decorations in town create a cozy atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Allonnes at Night

Allonnes has a laid-back nightlife scene with a few bars and cafés that offer live music, especially on weekends. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to mingle with locals. While not as vibrant as larger cities, it provides a cozy setting for enjoying a drink and unwinding after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Allonnes

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Les Alpes Mancelles

A stunning area with diverse trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes amidst beautiful landscapes.

La Vallée de la Sarthe

Offers scenic trails along the Sarthe River, perfect for leisurely hikes and nature observation.

Airports

How to reach Allonnes by plane.

Le Mans Arnage Airport

Approximately 10 km from Allonnes, this small airport offers flights to select destinations and connects to larger airports.

Getting Around

Walkability

Allonnes is quite walkable, with most amenities and attractions within a short distance of each other. The town has well-maintained sidewalks and paths, making it easy to navigate on foot. However, certain areas may require more effort if you're venturing outside the central vicinity.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families reside in Allonnes, attracted by the peaceful environment and good schools.

Retirees

The town is also popular among retirees seeking a quiet place to live with access to nature.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is a popular sport in the region, with local clubs and community events.

Cycling

The area is known for its cycling routes, with many enthusiasts enjoying the scenic landscapes.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Allonnes is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options are available, including buses that connect to nearby towns and cities. However, during peak hours, routes can become crowded, so planning ahead is recommended.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Allonnes.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian choices, but it's advisable to ask.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are becoming more common, but check with restaurants beforehand.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Allonnes is generally good, with several clinics and pharmacies available for minor ailments. For more serious conditions, larger hospitals are located in nearby Le Mans, where more specialized care can be obtained. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for medical services.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide