Things To Do
in Roanne

Roanne is a charming town in the Loire department of France, known for its rich culinary heritage and picturesque landscapes. Nestled along the banks of the Loire River, it serves as a gateway to the beautiful Beaujolais wine region. The town boasts a blend of historical architecture, including the stunning Saint-Étienne Church and vibrant local markets.

Roanne is also famous for its gastronomy, making it a delightful destination for food lovers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Roanne
morning
:

Start your day at the Roanne Market, where you can sample local cheeses, charcuterie, and fresh produce. Visit the Musée de Beaux-Arts to enjoy its collection of fine art.

afternoon
:

Stroll along the Loire River and relax in Parc de la Loire, enjoying the scenic views. Visit the historic Saint-Étienne Church for a glimpse of its stunning architecture.

evening
:

Dine at a local bistro, savoring traditional French dishes, followed by a leisurely walk along the riverbanks.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip around Roanne
morning
:

Take a short drive to the nearby town of Charlieu, known for its medieval architecture and stunning abbey. Explore the local shops and cafes.

afternoon
:

Head to the wine region of Beaujolais for a wine tasting tour at one of the local vineyards, learning about the wine-making process.

evening
:

Return to Roanne and enjoy dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant, indulging in the local cuisine with a modern twist.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$20
Cup of coffee$3
🥖Baguette$1
🏨Hotel per night$90
🚌Public transport ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich culinary scene
  • Beautiful landscapes
  • Charming small-town atmosphere
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Some tourist spots can be crowded
  • Public transportation may be infrequent
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est le restaurant?" - Where is the restaurant?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Roanne

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc de la Loire

A picturesque park along the Loire River, ideal for capturing stunning river views and sunsets.

Saint-Étienne Church

A beautiful Gothic church with impressive stained glass windows, perfect for architectural photography.

Roanne Market

A vibrant market scene filled with colors and local vendors, offering great opportunities for candid shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Roanne

Roanne is a culinary haven, renowned for its exquisite flavors and local specialties that reflect the region's rich gastronomic heritage.

Roanne Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pâté en Croûte

A savory pie made with a flaky pastry crust filled with seasoned meat, often served as a starter.

Must-Try!

Boeuf Bourguignon

A classic French dish of beef stewed in red wine, showcasing the region's excellent wines.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Roanne Market

A bustling market held every Saturday where locals and visitors can find fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Roanne experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with warm summers and cool winters. Average temperatures in summer can reach 25°C (77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rain is spread fairly evenly throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in late spring and autumn. Snowfall is rare but can occur in January and February.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Always greet with 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants, as politeness is highly valued.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before eating and keep your hands on the table (but not elbows).

Dress Code

Dress smartly, especially when dining out, as the French take pride in their appearance.

Safety Guide

Safety

Roanne is generally a safe town, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Roanne

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is generally included in the bill, but rounding up or adding a small amount (5-10%) for good service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild weather and blooming flowers, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Summer can be warm, ideal for enjoying outdoor dining and festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage and a harvest season, particularly for local wines and foods.

Winter

Winter can be cold with occasional snow, perfect for cozying up in restaurants and enjoying seasonal delicacies.

Nightlife Guide

Roanne at Night

Roanne's nightlife is relatively low-key but offers a cozy atmosphere with various bars and lounges. The town features a few lively pubs where you can enjoy local wines and craft beers. There are occasional live music events and themed nights, providing entertainment for locals and visitors alike. For a more vibrant scene, nearby cities like Lyon are easily accessible for clubbing and larger venues.

Hiking in Roanne

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mont de la Madeleine

A popular hiking destination about 20 km from Roanne, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and forests.

Sentier des Bords de Loire

A scenic trail along the banks of the Loire, perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying nature.

Airports

How to reach Roanne by plane.

Saint-Étienne - Bouthéon Airport (EBU)

Located approximately 30 km from Roanne, this airport offers limited domestic flights and is the closest option for travelers. It's convenient for accessing the region but may not have extensive international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Roanne is quite walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The town center has pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are plenty of parks and green spaces to enjoy along the way.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Roanne has a growing population of young families attracted by its quality of life and educational facilities.

Retirees

The town is also home to many retirees who enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and access to nature.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in Roanne, with local clubs competing in regional leagues. Community support during matches is vibrant.

Rugby

Rugby has a strong following, and the local team draws enthusiastic fans. Matches are lively events, showcasing community spirit.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Roanne is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. The town is well-connected by local roads, and public transportation options include buses that serve the surrounding areas. However, during peak hours, traffic may increase slightly, especially near the town center.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Roanne.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants in Roanne offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are becoming more available, but inform the staff about dietary restrictions when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Roanne is accessible and offers a range of services, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. The local hospital provides emergency services and specialized care. For non-emergency situations, several general practitioners and specialists are available, often requiring appointments.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide