Laval travel guide

Nestled in the heart of the Mayenne department, Laval boasts a rich and varied history that dates back to medieval times. Founded in the 9th century, the town's strategic location along the Mayenne River facilitated its growth as a key trading and military hub. Laval's imposing castle, Château de Laval, built in the 11th century, stands as a testament to its feudal past and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

During the Renaissance, Laval flourished culturally and economically, becoming renowned for its thriving textile industry, particularly linen production. The town's historic center is adorned with half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets, reflecting its prosperous past.

In the 19th century, Laval underwent significant industrialization, further cementing its status as a vital economic center in the region. The town played a pivotal role during both World Wars, with its residents contributing to the Resistance efforts.

Today, Laval seamlessly blends its historical heritage with modern amenities, making it an attractive destination for tourists seeking a blend of culture, history, and scenic beauty.

Laval, nestled in the heart of the Pays de la Loire region, boasts a rich cultural heritage that reflects its historic and vibrant community. Visitors will find that the locals are warm and welcoming, and a basic understanding of French is appreciated, as it shows respect for their language and culture. Laval's history is deeply tied to its medieval past, and this is celebrated through numerous festivals and events, such as the annual 'Les Trois Éléphants' music festival, which brings the city to life every May.

When exploring Laval, it’s customary to greet shopkeepers and locals with a polite 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir,' depending on the time of day. Dining customs in Laval, much like the rest of France, place a strong emphasis on leisurely meals. Lunch is typically served between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, and many shops and businesses may close during this time. Dinner is usually later in the evening, around 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM.

Respect for local traditions is also important; for example, it's considered polite to wait for the host to say 'Bon appétit' before starting to eat at a meal. Additionally, it's common practice to bring a small gift, such as flowers or wine, when invited to a local's home. Understanding these customs can greatly enhance your experience and allow you to connect more deeply with the people of Laval.

The best time to explore Laval is during the late spring and early summer months, from May to June, when the weather is pleasantly warm and the city is in full bloom. This period offers comfortable temperatures, typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Additionally, this season is perfect for enjoying the vibrant local markets and the annual Fête de la Musique, a nationwide music festival held on June 21st, which brings the city's streets alive with performances and celebrations.

Another excellent time to visit Laval is in the early autumn, from September to October, when the weather remains mild and the summer crowds have dissipated. This season provides a more relaxed atmosphere for exploring Laval's historical sites and charming neighborhoods. The autumn foliage adds a picturesque touch to the city's parks and riverside walks.

Winter months, particularly December, can also be delightful, thanks to the Christmas markets and festive decorations that adorn the city. However, keep in mind that the weather can be chilly, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). Overall, for those looking to enjoy a blend of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and unique cultural experiences, the best time to explore Laval is in the late spring to early summer or early autumn.

One insider tip for visiting Laval is to explore the lesser-known 'Vieux Laval' district on foot. While many tourists flock to the main attractions like the Laval Castle and the Musée des Sciences, locals know that the true charm of the city lies in its narrow, cobbled streets and hidden courtyards. Take an afternoon to wander through this historic area, where you'll find quaint cafés, artisanal boutiques, and centuries-old architecture that tell the story of Laval's rich past. Don't forget to visit the small but enchanting Jardin de la Perrine, a local favorite for its peaceful ambiance and stunning views over the Mayenne River. This hidden gem offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of more crowded sites, providing an authentic glimpse into everyday life in Laval. By following this insider tip, you'll discover a side of the city that many visitors overlook, making your trip to Laval even more memorable.

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Laval, France. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Laval, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to France. Check out the best things to do in Laval. Compare the rates and services of the 6 types of stays and 3 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Laval with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Laval from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Laval with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Laval travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the town of Laval!

With destinations such as Laval, a trip to France needs no further explanation. Spanning over 643,801 square kilometers, France is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, France has something to enchant every traveler.

In Laval alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Vieux-Château, Laval Cathedral, and Abbaye de la Coudre. Thus, a trip to France becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, France offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in France. Click or tap the link below to discover more about France and its offers.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Laval, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Laval offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Laval travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the town so special.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a town as fantastic as Laval is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Laval usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Laval offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in the heart of the town allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Laval and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Laval planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Laval, you'll find 6 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in France can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the luxury hotels in Laval. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the town, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Laval.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Laval in the following sections.

To navigate Laval effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 3 car rental companies in Laval, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Laval start at 30 EUR per day or 210 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Renault Captur Auto. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Laval, starting at 27 EUR per day or 190 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Renault Clio.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Laval, France below.

The town of Laval is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in France. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that France has it all.

Each destination in France offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in France that are as magical as the town of Laval. The most popular travel destinations in France are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

Laval, France offers a variety of transportation options that make exploring the city and its surroundings convenient and enjoyable. The city's public transit system, TUL (Transports Urbains Lavallois), provides an extensive network of buses that cover key areas within Laval and its nearby suburbs. Buses run frequently and offer a reliable way to navigate the city.

For those preferring more flexibility, taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked through local taxi services. Rental cars are another viable option, with several agencies located in the city, allowing visitors to explore Laval and the scenic Mayenne department at their own pace.

Additionally, Laval is well-connected by train, with the Laval SNCF station offering high-speed TGV services to Paris and other major French cities. Cycling enthusiasts will appreciate the city’s bike-sharing program, Vélitul, which provides an eco-friendly and leisurely way to discover Laval’s charming streets and picturesque landscapes.

These diverse transportation options ensure that getting around Laval is both easy and efficient, catering to various preferences and travel styles.