Things To Do
in Saumur
Saumur is a charming town located in the Loire Valley region of France known for its picturesque setting along the Loire River. The town is famous for its historic architecture, including the stunning ChĂąteau de Saumur, a beautiful medieval castle overlooking the town. Saumur is also renowned for its equestrian heritage, hosting the prestigious Cadre Noir, the French National Riding School.
Visitors can explore the nearby vineyards and wine cellars to indulge in the famous Saumur sparkling wines produced in the region.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $2.50
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a bicycle ride along the Loire River, taking in the beautiful scenery and vineyards. Stop by a local café for a traditional French breakfast.
Visit the stunning ChĂąteau de Saumur and enjoy a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history. Take some time to wander around the charming old town and explore boutique shops.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant, savoring local specialties such as seafood and wines. Wrap up your night with a leisurely stroll by the riverside, taking in the sunset.
Begin with a visit to the MusĂ©e des BlindĂ©s, home to an impressive collection of military vehicles. Then, explore the nearby Ăglise Saint-Pierre, a beautiful historical church.
Join a local art workshop to create your own piece inspired by the landscapes of Saumur. Enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro with views of the vineyards.
Attend a local theater performance or cultural event if available. Finish your day with a glass of wine at a cozy wine bar.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich in history and culture with stunning architecture.
- Famous for its beautiful vineyards and production of high-quality wines, particularly Cabernet Franc.
- Located near the Loire Valley, offering picturesque landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Culinary delights with local specialties including andouillette and goat cheese.
- Strong community spirit with numerous local festivals and events.
- Limited public transportation options can make access difficult.
- Smaller city size may mean fewer amenities and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Could experience tourist overcrowding during peak seasons.
- Job opportunities may be limited, especially for non-French speakers.
- Weather can be variable, with cold winters and hot summers, which may not appeal to everyone.
Best Activities in Saumur
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful castle and its grounds, offering stunning views of the Loire River and the surrounding area.
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the scenic Loire River, taking in the picturesque landscapes and charming villages.
Indulge in a wine-tasting tour of the local vineyards, known for their delicious sparkling wines and scenic countryside.
Experience the Loire River from a different perspective by embarking on a canoeing or kayaking adventure, surrounded by nature and historic landmarks.
Places to Visit in Saumur
Visit one of these nice places.
The castle offers panoramic views of Saumur and the Loire River, perfect for photography.
This street is known for its charming architecture and picturesque views, making it a great spot for photography enthusiasts.
The island offers scenic views of Saumur and its surroundings, providing ample photo opportunities.
Food in Saumur
Saumur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These small, pita-like bread pockets are typically filled with local specialties like rillettes, a savory spread made from pork, and are a must-try while in Saumur. Try La Maison du Fouée for a delightful experience.
Must-Try!
These almond candies are a local specialty and a treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. Chocolaterie De Neuville is renowned for their delectable Quernons d'Ardoise.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling indoor market where you can find fresh produce, cheese, meats, and a variety of local delicacies. Don't miss the chance to grab a quick bite from the food stalls offering regional dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Saumur, it's common to greet people with a handshake, and friends and family may exchange kisses on the cheek.
When dining in Saumur, it's polite to wait for the host to begin eating before you start. It's also customary to say 'bon appétit' before eating.
Personal space is valued in Saumur, so it's important to be mindful of not standing too close to others and to respect their personal boundaries.
Safety
Tipping in Saumur
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Saumur, France is not obligatory, as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, it is common to round up the bill or leave a small tip for exceptional service.
In Saumur, France, cash is widely accepted for small transactions, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for larger purchases. Contactless payment methods are increasingly available in many establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Saumur, with comfortable temperatures, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing.
Summer is peak tourist season in Saumur, with warm weather, lively festivals, and plenty of opportunities for wine tasting and outdoor dining.
Fall brings beautiful foliage and harvest season, making it a wonderful time to enjoy the local wines, attend cultural events, and experience the coziness of the region.
Winter in Saumur is less crowded, offering a quieter and more introspective experience. Visitors can enjoy holiday markets, wine tours, and a peaceful ambiance.
Saumur at Night
Hiking in Saumur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area with marked trails that offer beautiful views of the Loire River and vineyards.
Features various paths through wooded areas, ideal for a peaceful hike surrounded by nature.
A bit further out, this park offers a plethora of hiking trails through wetlands, forests, and ponds.
While primarily a cycling route, sections of this trail are perfect for hiking, showcasing stunning landscapes along the river.
A forest area near Montsoreau with several trails that meander through the trees and offer a peaceful hiking experience.
Aiports
How to reach Saumur by plane.
Located approximately 90 km from Saumur, Nantes Atlantique Airport is the closest major international airport offering a range of domestic and international flights.
Situated about 100 km from Saumur, Tours Val de Loire Airport serves as a regional airport with limited international connections.
Angers Loire Airport is roughly 45 km from Saumur, primarily serving domestic flights, but may include seasonal international options.
Located around 110 km from Saumur, Poitiers-Biard Airport provides access to several regional and occasional international flights.
Approximately 150 km from Saumur, La Rochelle Airport mostly operates seasonal flights to the UK and is a smaller international airport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This group constitutes a significant portion of the working-age population in Saumur, actively contributing to the local economy.
The senior population in Saumur is growing, reflecting broader demographic trends in France, with an emphasis on healthcare and social services.
This group includes infants, toddlers, and teenagers, essential for local schools and community programs.
Typically encompassing students and early professionals, this demographic plays a crucial role in the vibrancy of local culture and economy.
Women in Saumur are engaged in various sectors including education, healthcare, and business, contributing significantly to community life.
Men make up about half of the population in Saumur, involved in diverse roles across the workforce.
This group includes individuals from different nationalities, contributing to the cultural diversity of Saumur.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Saumur is renowned for its equestrian culture, particularly with the Cadre Noir de Saumur, the prestigious French National School of Equitation, known for its classical riding techniques and training.
The picturesque landscapes and vineyards around Saumur make cycling a popular activity among locals and tourists alike, with numerous cycling routes available.
Football is a widely followed sport in Saumur, with local clubs participating in various leagues and community activities centered around the sport.
Basketball has a strong following in Saumur, with local clubs and schools promoting the sport through various programs and competitions.
Rugby is another popular sport in Saumur, with local clubs offering training and matches, contributing to the sport's local appeal.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saumur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Saumur offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, often featuring fresh produce from the region. Le Pot de Lapin and Le Grand Bleu are great choices for plant-based options.
While it may require some searching, Saumur does offer gluten-free options. La Toque Blanche and Le Bois Savary are known for accommodating gluten-free dietary needs.