Things To Do
in Laval
Laval is a charming town located in the Pays de la Loire region of France. It is known for its historic architecture, including the beautiful Laval Cathedral and the medieval Château de Laval. The town is situated along the Mayenne River, offering scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Laval also boasts a rich cultural scene with museums, art galleries, and annual festivals that attract visitors from around the world.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the charming streets of Laval's historic center. Visit the medieval Château de Laval and enjoy the beautiful architecture.
After lunch, explore the Museu de la Haute Sarthe to learn about local history and culture. Don't forget to stroll by the Mayenne River for scenic views.
Conclude your day with dinner at a cozy restaurant that offers local specialties. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverbank under the stars.
Begin your day at Parc de La Perrine, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk among beautiful gardens. Take some time to relax by the pond.
Pack a picnic and head to the nearby Parc des Plantes for lunch. Explore the park’s lovely pathways and enjoy watching local wildlife.
End your day with a barbecue in the park if permitted. Alternatively, visit a local café for a refreshing drink.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Laval has a rich historical heritage, with beautiful architecture and museums.
- The city is known for its green spaces and parks, providing a pleasant environment for residents and visitors.
- Laval has a strong local economy, with various job opportunities in different sectors.
- It offers a good quality of life with a slower pace compared to larger cities.
- There are numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year, promoting community engagement.
- Public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities.
- Some may find the nightlife scene to be less vibrant than in bigger urban areas.
- Weather can be quite rainy and overcast, which might not appeal to everyone.
- Limited shopping and dining options compared to larger metropolitan areas.
- Higher education institutions may be fewer, potentially limiting options for students.
Best Activities in Laval
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Nature park offering hiking, birdwatching, kayaking, and paddleboarding activities along the river.
Park with walking trails, picnic areas, and views of the Seine River for outdoor relaxation and leisure activities.
Park with a playground, walking paths, and open green spaces for outdoor recreation and family-friendly activities.
Tours
Uncover the best of Laval with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Laval
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic castle with scenic views of Laval and the Mayenne River
Beautiful gardens overlooking Laval with picturesque spots for photography
An impressive railway viaduct offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape
Food in Laval
Laval Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fouées are small, puffed-up bread pockets filled with an array of savory or sweet ingredients. For an authentic experience, visit La Taverne de la Paix or Le 7ème Lieu where you can savor both classic and innovative fillings.
Must-Try!
This sausage made from chitterlings is a staple of Laval cuisine. For an exceptional taste, head to Le Bistro de Paris or Le Quatre Siècles where you can sample this delicacy prepared in various styles.
Poiré Domfront is a popular local pear cider with a distinct taste. Enjoy this refreshing beverage at La Fabrique or Au Coin du Feu, where it is often paired with regional dishes.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Laval better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Marché de Laval is a bustling market offering an assortment of fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal goods. It's an excellent spot to sample street food such as galettes, crêpes, and freshly baked bread.
For an authentic street food experience, wander down Rue du Pont de Mayenne and explore the stalls offering a tempting selection of regional delicacies, from charcuterie platters to delectable pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Laval, France, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, particularly in formal settings. Use the formal 'vous' instead of 'tu' when addressing someone unless invited to use the informal form.
In Laval, dining is considered a social event. It's polite to keep your hands visible on the table, and it's customary to wait for the host to begin the meal before starting to eat. It's also common to say 'bon appétit' before starting the meal.
French people, including those in Laval, generally value personal space and may stand a bit closer during conversations compared to some other cultures. It's important to be aware of this and respect others' personal space while engaging in conversations.
Safety
Tipping in Laval
Ensure a smooth experience
In Laval, France, tipping is considered discretionary in restaurants, cafes, and bars. It is common to leave a small tip, usually around 5-10% of the total bill, if the service has been particularly good. However, tipping is not obligatory, and it is acceptable to simply round up the bill or leave no tip at all if the service was not satisfactory.
In Laval, France, payment for goods and services is commonly made using cash, debit or credit cards. Most businesses, including restaurants, shops, and hotels, accept major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard. Contactless payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular in Laval, offering convenience and speed for transactions. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions and in case of any establishments that do not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit Laval, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. It's a good time for outdoor activities and exploring the beautiful gardens and parks in the area.
Summer (June to August) brings warm weather and longer days, making it ideal for enjoying outdoor festivals, events, and the vibrant atmosphere of Laval. It's also a popular time for day trips to the surrounding countryside.
Fall (September to November) offers pleasant weather with colorful foliage, making it a picturesque time to visit Laval. The harvest season also brings opportunities to experience local food and wine festivals.
Winter (December to February) may be quiet in Laval, but it has its own charm with festive decorations, Christmas markets, and the chance to experience the city in a more serene and peaceful atmosphere.
Laval at Night
Hiking in Laval
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful natural park offering scenic trails along the shores of the Mille Îles River, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
This natural park features well-marked hiking trails through forests and wetlands, providing a tranquil escape with diverse wildlife.
Located nearby in Montreal, this park offers various hiking trails with stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
A national park with hiking trails on islands in the Saint Lawrence River, featuring beautiful riverside landscapes and wildlife.
A regional park offering extensive trails for hiking, featuring picturesque views of the river and surrounding nature.
Aiports
How to reach Laval by plane.
Located approximately 30 kilometers northeast of Laval, this is the largest international airport in France, serving as a major hub for international flights.
Situated about 80 kilometers west of Laval, this international airport offers flights mainly within Europe and serves as a key regional airport.
Located around 100 kilometers south of Laval, it is an international airport that connects numerous destinations across Europe and beyond.
Approximately 150 kilometers northwest of Laval, this international airport provides services to both domestic and some international destinations.
About 160 kilometers southeast of Laval, this airport mainly offers seasonal flights and connects with a few international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Individuals who primarily speak French as their first language, representing a significant majority in Laval.
Residents who have moved to Laval from other countries, contributing to the city's cultural diversity.
A demographic group that includes students and young professionals, influenced by the local education institutions.
Young population segment comprising school-age children and preschoolers.
Older adults making up a growing segment of the population, often requiring specific healthcare and social services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Laval, with numerous clubs and community leagues fostering local talent.
Basketball enjoys a strong following in Laval, with local teams participating in various regional and national competitions.
Rugby is also well-liked in Laval, with dedicated clubs and events attracting both players and fans.
Handball has become increasingly popular, with local clubs and initiatives aimed at promoting the sport among youth.
Laval boasts beautiful cycling routes, making cycling a popular recreational activity for residents.
Athletics is supported by various local clubs and events, encouraging participation across different age groups.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Laval.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Laval offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, with options ranging from fresh salads to plant-based interpretations of traditional French recipes. Look out for Le Patio or Le Vert Buisson for delightful vegetarian and vegan menus.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy a variety of gluten-free dishes at establishments like Le Gavroche or Le Saint-Honoré, where the chefs are adept at crafting gluten-free versions of classic French dishes.