Located in the Loire Valley, this city boasts a medieval center with a grand castle. Its lively student population ensures active nightlife, while the scenic riverfront adds charm.
Angers, the historic capital of Anjou, is located along the Maine River in western France. This university city has preserved its medieval architecture while embracing contemporary culture. In Angers, you can visit the Château d'Angers and see the famous Apocalypse Tapestry, walk through the Jardin des Plantes, and taste local wines and cuisine. The city is also close to the Loire Valley's castles and vineyards.
Exploring the Medieval Center of Angers
As you walk through the old town of Angers, you'll see cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. The Cathédrale Saint-Maurice, dating back to the 12th century, is an example of Angevin Gothic architecture. Look up to see its stained glass windows and spires that stand out in the city's skyline. Near the cathedral, you can sit at a cafe in Place Sainte-Croix and watch the world go by.
The Château d'Angers
The Château d'Angers is a large fortress built in the 13th century. It has 17 towers and walls that are almost half a kilometer long. Inside the castle, you'll find the Apocalypse Tapestry, a 14th-century work of art that's 100 meters long. It shows scenes from the Book of Revelation in detail. The castle also has gardens where you can sit and look out over the city.
Museums in Angers
Angers has several museums you can visit. The Musée des Beaux-Arts is in a 15th-century mansion and has paintings and sculptures from the 14th century to today. If you're interested in modern art, go to the Jean-Lurçat and Contemporary Tapestry Museum. It's in an old medieval hospital and shows modern textile art. The David d'Angers Gallery is in a former abbey church and displays works by the 19th-century sculptor Pierre-Jean David d'Angers.
Parks and Gardens
Angers is known for its many parks and gardens. The Jardin des Plantes, which was created in the 18th century, is in the middle of the city and has over 2,000 types of plants. You can also visit Terra Botanica, a plant-themed park. Here, you can learn about different ecosystems and plant science. The park has a butterfly house and a hot air balloon ride that both children and adults might enjoy.
Food and Wine in Angers
Angers is in the Loire Valley wine region. You can visit local wineries or try wines at the Maison des Vins d'Anjou et de Saumur in the city center. Cointreau, an orange liqueur, has been made in Angers since 1849. You can try local foods like Quernons d'Ardoise, blue chocolates that look like the slate roofs in the area, or Crémet d'Anjou, a light dessert made with whipped cheese and fresh fruit.
Getting to and Around Angers
You can take a high-speed TGV train from Paris to Angers, which takes about 90 minutes. Once you're in Angers, you can walk around the city or use the tram system. There are also many bike paths if you want to cycle. If you plan to visit other places in the Loire Valley, you might want to rent a car so you can go to castles and vineyards on your own schedule.
