Things To Do
in Valence
Valence is a charming city located in southeastern France, along the Rhône River. It is known for its beautiful architecture, including the stunning Valence Cathedral and the historic Old Town filled with narrow cobblestone streets. The city also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, art galleries, and theaters showcasing local talent.
Valence is a perfect destination for those looking to immerse themselves in French history and culture while enjoying the picturesque landscapes of the surrounding region.
- "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 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Parc Jouvet, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll amidst beautiful gardens. Don't forget to stop by the pond and watch the ducks.
Head to the city center to explore Valence Cathedral and the charming streets around it. Grab a light lunch at a local café and people-watch while enjoying your meal.
Conclude your day with a dinner at a traditional French restaurant. Try local specialties and relax while soaking in the evening atmosphere.
Begin with a short drive to the nearby vineyards to learn about local wine production. Enjoy a guided tour and taste some of the exquisite wines in the region.
After wine tasting, have lunch at a vineyard bistro surrounded by stunning views. Sample local dishes paired with wines you just tasted.
Return to Valence and explore the local bars for a relaxed evening. Enjoy a glass of wine or craft beer while mingling with locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful scenery with proximity to the Rhône River and surrounding mountains.
- Rich history and architecture, featuring historic buildings and cultural sites.
- Vibrant local markets offering fresh produce and regional specialties.
- Pleasant Mediterranean climate, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Good transportation connections, making it easy to travel to nearby cities and regions.
- May experience high temperature during summer months, making it uncomfortable at times.
- Tourist crowds can be overwhelming during peak seasons.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors compared to larger cities.
- Public transport options may be limited compared to bigger metropolitan areas.
- Cost of living can be high, especially in prime locations and during tourist season.
Best Activities in Valence
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A beautiful park with lush greenery, a lake, and walking paths, ideal for outdoor activities such as picnicking, jogging, and leisurely strolls.
Offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing amidst stunning natural landscapes.
A riverside beach along the Rhône River where visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports.
Tours
Uncover the best of Valence with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Valence
Visit one of these nice places.
Ruins of a medieval castle offering panoramic views of the surrounding area
Beautiful park with landscaped gardens and scenic vistas
Bridge over the Rhône River with picturesque views of the city
Food in Valence
Valence Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional savory pâté made with pork, Swiss chard, and various herbs and spices. It is often served as an appetizer.
Must-Try!
Tiny pockets of pasta filled with local cheese (often Comté), served in a rich cream sauce or simply sautéed in butter.
A gluten-free, chickpea flour pancake cooked in a wood-fired oven, typically enjoyed as a snack or street food.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Valence better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide array of fresh produce, local cheeses, seafood, and aromatic spices. It's an ideal place to sample regional specialties and engage with local vendors. Look out for food stalls selling delicious street food like socca and panisses.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Valence, it is customary to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, depending on your relationship with the person. It's important to maintain eye contact and use formal titles when addressing people you've just met.
When dining in Valence, it's important to wait for the host to start eating before you begin. It's also polite to keep your hands visible on the table and to engage in light conversation during the meal. Additionally, it's common to say 'Bon appétit' before starting your meal.
In Valence, respecting personal space is important. It's crucial to avoid standing too close to others and to be mindful of your volume in public spaces. Additionally, it's customary to wait for an invitation before entering someone's personal space, such as their home or office.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Valence with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Valence
Ensure a smooth experience
In Valence, France, it is common to leave a small tip of 5-10% at restaurants if you receive good service. However, tipping is not mandatory and is not expected in all situations.
In Valence, France, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular, especially in larger establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Valence.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is a great time to visit Valence as the weather is mild and flowers are in bloom. It's also a good time for outdoor activities and exploring the surrounding countryside.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Valence, with warm weather and long days. It's the best time for enjoying outdoor festivals, dining al fresco, and exploring the riverside promenades.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, making it a beautiful time to visit Valence. It's also a great time to enjoy wine tasting tours and harvest festivals in the surrounding vineyards.
Winters in Valence are chilly, but it's a quiet and atmospheric time to visit. Visitors can enjoy Christmas markets, cozy cafes, and the festive atmosphere in the city center.
Valence at Night
Hiking in Valence
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful hiking spot offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, located just a short drive from Valence.
A large natural park featuring a variety of trails suitable for all levels, known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife.
A popular hiking area with several trails that provide access to scenic viewpoints and unique rock formations.
Famous for its summit which is the source of the Loire River, this hike offers panoramic views and an opportunity to explore the regional flora and fauna.
A charming trail that showcases the historical water mills and offers a pleasant walk through the countryside.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Valence through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Valence by plane.
The largest airport serving the Lyon metropolitan area, approximately 100 km from Valence. It offers numerous international flights.
Located about 175 km from Valence, this airport serves the Marseille area and offers a wide range of international connections.
Located around 100 km from Valence, this airport focuses on both seasonal and low-cost airlines, providing services to several international destinations.
Situated approximately 150 km from Valence, this airport has limited international services but can handle some flights to European destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group, encompassing various regional identities and cultures within France.
Includes populations from North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, and various European countries who have settled in Valence.
A significant proportion of the population consists of young individuals, particularly those aged 18-30, including university students.
A growing demographic group, particularly among those aged 65 and older, reflecting broader aging trends in France.
The Soul of Valence
Discover the essence of Valence through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Valence, with many local clubs and a strong community support for teams.
Rugby enjoys a significant following in Valence, known for its competitive local teams and enthusiastic fans.
Basketball is widely played and watched in Valence, with several clubs offering programs for all ages.
Cycling is a popular outdoor activity in Valence, with scenic routes attracting both amateur and competitive cyclists.
Athletics, including track and field events, is practiced actively in Valence, with local clubs encouraging youth participation.
Handball has a dedicated following in Valence, with clubs facilitating training and competitions for enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Valence.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Valence is increasingly catering to vegetarian and vegan diets, with many restaurants offering creative plant-based twists on traditional dishes like ravioles and socca. Le Bistro d'Elena is a standout choice for delectable vegetarian and vegan options.
For gluten-free options, indulge in the local specialty socca, which is naturally gluten-free. Many eateries also offer gluten-free variations of regional dishes, so be sure to inquire when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Valence with these cultural adventures.
