Angoulême - Discovering France

Travelling to Angoulême

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Angoulême, a pretty good destination in France (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Angoulême and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Angoulême, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through France, here's everything to know about Angoulême for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Angoulême

Angoulême is a city in southwestern France, located in the department of Charente. It is known for its rich history, charming old town, and famous comic book festival, the Angoulême International Comics Festival, which takes place every year in January. The city has a population of around 40,000 people and offers a variety of cultural and historical attractions, including historic churches, museums, and galleries. The nearby Cognac region is also a popular destination for visitors. Angoulême is easily accessible by car or train, with direct connections to major cities in France such as Paris and Bordeaux.

What to visit in Angoulême

Here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Angoulême, France: 1. Cathedral Saint-Pierre: The Cathedral Saint-Pierre is one of the top tourist attractions in Angoulême. It is a beautiful Gothic cathedral that dates back to the 12th century. Visitors can admire its stunning architecture and attend mass or other religious services.
2. Musée d’Angoulême: This is a fascinating museum that exhibits art and artifacts from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum has a wide range of collections, including painting, sculpture, archaeology, and ethnology.
3. Chateau d’Angoulême: The Chateau d’Angoulême is a historic castle that dates back to the 9th century. It was once the residence of the Counts of Angoulême and is now a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the castle's grounds, which include beautiful gardens and a park.
4. Les Halles d'Angoulême: Les Halles d’Angoulême is a bustling market that is open every day. Visitors can buy fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, wine, and other local specialties. It's a great place to experience the local culture and pick up some souvenirs.
5. Circuit des Remparts d'Angoulême: The Circuit des Remparts d'Angoulême is a famous vintage car race that takes place in the streets of Angoulême. It is held every September and attracts car enthusiasts from all over the world.
6. Le Musée de la Bande Dessinée: Angoulême is the birthplace of the comic book industry in France, so it’s no surprise that it’s home to the Musée de la Bande Dessinée, which is dedicated to the art of comic books. Visitors can learn about the history of comic books in France, view original comic book art, and explore the museum's exhibitions.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in France, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Angoulême.

When to go on holiday to Angoulême

The best time to visit Angoulême in France is during the spring months of March to May or during the autumn months of September to November. The weather during this time is mild with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. However, if you are interested in attending the Angoulême International Comics Festival, which is one of the biggest comic book festivals in the world, then visit during January or February. Just keep in mind that the city will be packed and the prices of accommodation may be higher during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Angoulême

There are different transport options to get to Angoulême: 1. By train: Angoulême has a train station which is served by TGV trains from Paris, Bordeaux, and other major French cities. The journey from Paris takes about 2 hours. You can check schedules and buy tickets on the SNCF website.
2. By plane: The nearest airport to Angoulême is Bordeaux-Mérignac, which is about 1h30 minutes away by car or train. From the airport, you can take a train or rent a car to get to Angoulême. 3. By car: Angoulême is located on the A10 motorway, which connects Paris to Bordeaux. The journey takes about 4 hours from Paris and 1h30 minutes from Bordeaux, depending on traffic.
4. By bus: There are also bus services that connect Angoulême to nearby cities and towns. You can check schedules and book tickets on websites like Flixbus or Ouibus.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Angoulême.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Angoulême, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Angoulême

Angoulême, a beautiful city in southwestern France, is known for its traditional cuisine, which reflects the region's history and culture. Here are some typical foods that you should try when you visit Angoulême: 1. Pâté Charentais: Pâté Charentais is a traditional meat pie made with pork, veal, or game meat. The meat is mixed with spices and herbs and placed in a puff pastry shell. It's a tasty appetizer or a hearty main dish.
2. Cognac: Cognac is a type of brandy made from white wine and aged in oak barrels. It takes its name from the town of Cognac, which is located near Angoulême. This spirit is perfect as a digestif (an after-dinner drink).
3. Charentais Melon: This juicy, sweet melon is grown in the Charente region surrounding Angoulême. It's typically eaten as a dessert or served as a chilled soup with ham or seafood.
4. Pineau des Charentes: Pineau des Charentes is a delicious blend of grape juice and Cognac. This fruity and sweet wine is served as an aperitif (a pre-dinner drink) and is often paired with cheese, ham, or foie gras.
5. Farci Poitevin: Farci Poitevin is a stuffing that features cabbage, pork, breadcrumbs, and garlic. It's often served as a side dish during the holidays.
6. Angélique Confite: This candied fruit comes from the angelica plant, which grows in the Charente region. It's often served as a dessert or used as a garnish for cocktails.
7. Galette Charentaise: The Galette Charentaise is a traditional pastry that's typically eaten as a breakfast dish. It's made with flour, eggs, sugar, and butter, and it's often flavored with orange blossom water.
Enjoy sampling these delicious delicacies when you visit Angoulême!
You can find general info about typical foods in France here.

Is Angoulême an expensive destination for tourists?

Angoulême is not one of the most expensive tourist destinations in France, but it is also not the cheapest. The cost of accommodations and meals can vary depending on the season and the type of establishment you choose, but in general, the prices are reasonable. The cost of tourist activities such as visiting museums, historic sites, and galleries is also quite affordable. However, it's important to bear in mind that the cost of transportation to get to Angoulême can be significant, especially if you're coming from outside of France. Overall, while it may not be the most budget-friendly destination, it's still possible to enjoy a great trip to Angoulême without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Angoulême

In Angoulême, the best areas to find accommodations for tourists are the historic city center, Saint-Martial neighborhood, and the Champ-de-Mars area. These areas are close to the main attractions of the city, such as the Cathedral of Saint-Pierre, the City Hall, and the International Comics Festival. Additionally, there are many restaurants, cafes, and shops nearby, making it convenient for tourists to explore the city.
You can check hotel prices at Angoulême here:
Booking.com

Is Angoulême a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Angoulême is considered a safe place for tourists. As with any city, however, it is always a good idea to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Petty crimes like pickpocketing may occur in crowded tourist areas, so it is recommended to keep your belongings secure. It is also advisable to follow basic safety precautions such as not walking alone in poorly lit areas at night and sticking to well-traveled areas. Overall, Angoulême is a beautiful city with a rich history and is generally safe for tourists to visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in France here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Angoulême.

What type of travelers will enjoy Angoulême the most?

Angoulême is a charming city full of history, art, and culture, so it can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers. However, there are a few groups of travelers that might enjoy Angoulême more than others: 1. Art and culture enthusiasts: Angoulême is well-known for its International Comic Book Festival held every January, but it also has many museums, galleries, and historical buildings that showcase its rich cultural heritage.
2. Couples: Angoulême's medieval architecture, tranquil setting, and romantic restaurants make it an ideal destination for couples looking for a quiet and intimate getaway.
3. Families: The city has several family-friendly attractions including parks, gardens, and a popular riverfront area with activities such as boat rides and picnic areas.
4. Solo travelers: Angoulême's compact size and friendly locals make it easy for solo travelers to navigate and explore.
While the city may not be known for its nightlife, there are plenty of restaurants and wine bars where travelers can enjoy a cozy night out with friends or family.

How to get around Angoulême

In Angoulême, you can move around by bus, taxi, or by car. There are several bus lines that connect different parts of the city, and taxis are also available. If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car or use a car-sharing service. Biking is also a great option in Angoulême, as the city has many cycling paths and a bike sharing system.

What to see around Angoulême

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Angoulême: 1. Cognac: This charming town is known for its world-famous brandy. You can tour the distilleries, visit the museum, and taste some of the best cognac in the region.
2. Brantôme: A picturesque village nestled in the Dordogne valley, Brantôme offers stunning river views, ancient monasteries, and lush greenery.
3. Saint-Émilion: This UNESCO-listed town is famous for its world-class vineyards and well-preserved medieval architecture. The town features numerous wine shops where you can taste the region's famous Bordeaux wines.
4. Bordeaux: France's wine capital, Bordeaux is known for its magnificent architecture, vibrant culinary scene, and thriving cultural attractions. The city's numerous museums, galleries, and theaters rival those of much larger cities.
5. La Rochelle: A historic port town on the Atlantic coast, La Rochelle features a stunning old town, beautiful beaches, and a lively waterfront. You can tour the Aquarium, explore the city's numerous historic sites, and sample some of the region's famous seafood.
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