Valenciennes travel guide

Valenciennes, with its rich and diverse history, is a gem in the Hauts-de-France region. Originally a Roman settlement, it became a significant medieval town in the 9th century. During the Middle Ages, Valenciennes flourished as a center of trade and culture, becoming a key player in the powerful County of Hainaut.

In the 16th century, the town experienced religious upheaval during the Reformation, notably becoming a Protestant stronghold. This led to its capture by Spanish forces in 1567, marking the start of a turbulent era under Spanish rule. The city was later annexed to France in 1678 by the Treaty of Nijmegen under King Louis XIV, ushering in a period of stability and growth.

The Industrial Revolution transformed Valenciennes into an industrial powerhouse, particularly known for its coal mining and textile industries. However, the city faced severe devastation during both World Wars, requiring extensive post-war reconstruction.

Today, Valenciennes is celebrated for its vibrant cultural scene, including the renowned Museum of Fine Arts, and its beautiful 18th-century architecture. This historical tapestry makes Valenciennes an intriguing destination for history buffs and travelers alike.

Valenciennes, located in the Hauts-de-France region, offers a rich tapestry of cultural traditions and customs that reflect its historical and artistic heritage. The city is known for its warmth and hospitality, so don’t be surprised if locals greet you with a friendly 'Bonjour!' or 'Bonsoir!' as you explore the picturesque streets. Politeness is highly valued, so always remember to say 'merci' (thank you) and 's'il vous plaît' (please) in your interactions.

Valenciennes has a deep-rooted connection to the arts, particularly painting and ceramics, thanks in part to its famous School of Fine Arts. You might notice an appreciation for art in local galleries and public spaces. When visiting these, it’s customary to speak softly and show respect for the exhibits and fellow visitors.

The city also celebrates its unique culinary traditions. Be sure to try local specialties like the 'tarte à gros bords' (a type of cheese tart) and 'moules-frites' (mussels with fries). When dining, it’s polite to wait until everyone is served before starting your meal.

Finally, Valenciennes is a city that values its festivals and communal gatherings. If your visit coincides with local events such as the 'Fêtes de la Saint-Jean' or the 'Festival 2 Valenciennes,' take the opportunity to engage and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Participation and enthusiasm are always welcomed and appreciated.

The best time to explore Valenciennes is during the late spring and early summer months, from May to June. During this period, the weather is pleasantly warm with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. This season also allows visitors to enjoy the lush green parks and vibrant blooms that adorn the city.

If you prefer fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere, consider visiting in September and October. The early autumn months offer mild weather and the added charm of fall foliage, making it a picturesque time to wander through the historic streets and cultural landmarks.

For those interested in experiencing local culture, the annual Valenciennes Jazz Festival in June is a must-attend event that attracts music enthusiasts from all over. Additionally, the town's Christmas markets in December provide a festive ambiance complete with local crafts, holiday treats, and twinkling lights.

Planning your visit around these times ensures you enjoy the best weather conditions and partake in unique events that enhance the overall experience of exploring Valenciennes.

When exploring Valenciennes, an insider tip from the locals is to visit the hidden gem known as the Jardin des Floralies. While not as famous as some of the city's more prominent attractions, this tranquil garden offers an intimate glimpse into the natural beauty and peaceful ambiance that locals cherish. Nestled away from the bustling city center, the Jardin des Floralies is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a picnic surrounded by vibrant flora and meticulously maintained landscapes.

Whether you're looking to escape the crowds or simply want to experience Valenciennes from a local's perspective, this serene garden is a must-visit. Take a leisurely stroll, relax by the pond, or simply sit and soak in the tranquility—this lesser-known oasis will undoubtedly enhance your Valenciennes experience.

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Valenciennes, France. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Valenciennes, 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 Valenciennes. Compare the rates and services of the 6 types of stays and 3 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

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

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

With destinations such as Valenciennes, 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 Valenciennes alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Park Rhônelle, Museum of Fine Arts in Valenciennes, and Floralies Garden. 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 Valenciennes, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Valenciennes offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Valenciennes 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 Valenciennes is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Valenciennes usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Valenciennes 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 Valenciennes and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Valenciennes planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Valenciennes, 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 Valenciennes. 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 Valenciennes.

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

To navigate Valenciennes 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 Valenciennes, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Valenciennes start at 35 EUR per day or 248 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Volkswagen Taigo Auto. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Valenciennes, starting at 29 EUR per day or 203 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat 500.

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

The town of Valenciennes 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 Valenciennes. 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.

Valenciennes offers a variety of transportation options to ensure easy navigation around the city. The city is well-served by an efficient public transit system, including buses and trams operated by Transvilles. The tram network, with its clean and modern trams, is particularly popular for getting around the city center and key suburban areas.

Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street, found at designated taxi stands, or booked via phone and mobile apps. For those who prefer the flexibility of driving, several car rental agencies operate in Valenciennes, offering a range of vehicles to suit different needs.

Cycling enthusiasts will appreciate the city's bike-friendly infrastructure, including numerous dedicated bike lanes and rental services like V'Hello, which provides easy access to bicycles for short-term use. Additionally, Valenciennes boasts a unique local transportation experience with its electric 'Navette du Centre,' a free shuttle service that circulates through the city center, providing convenient access to major shopping and cultural sites.