Things To Do
in Agen
Agen is a historic market town set on the banks of the Garonne in the Lot-et-Garonne department. It blends medieval charm with lively markets where prunes, duck, and local produce shine. The city serves as a gateway to Gascony’s bastides and the surrounding vineyards.
Visitors can wander its arcaded streets, visit museums, and savor regional specialties at intimate eateries.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a visit to the stunning Saint-Caprais Cathedral, an exquisite example of Gothic architecture. Wander through the old town's picturesque streets, enjoying the charm of medieval buildings that tell the stories of the past. Don't miss out on a local bakery to savor a traditional Agen prune pastry for breakfast.
After lunch at a quaint café, take a relaxing stroll along the banks of the Garonne River, soaking in the serene views and vibrant local atmosphere. Head to the Agen Museum to discover the rich cultural heritage of the town. As the day winds down, stop by the local markets to browse for artisan crafts and regional delicacies.
In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner at a restaurant featuring regional cuisine, perhaps trying some of the famous duck dishes the region is known for. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, enjoying the ambiance of the town. Wrap up your day at a local wine bar, sampling some wines from the nearby vineyards.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the nearby Parc Natural Régional des Landes de Gascogne, where nature awaits. Spend your morning hiking through scenic trails, observing the beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning vistas!
Following your outdoor adventure, have a picnic lunch at one of the park's designated areas while basking in the tranquility of nature. Afterward, consider renting a canoe to explore the park’s lakes and waterways, offering a unique perspective of the lush surroundings. It's a perfect way to unwind and appreciate the beauty of the region.
Return to Agen and freshen up before enjoying dinner at a cozy bistro that specializes in local Gascogna cuisine. Engage with friendly locals and share stories over a glass of Armagnac to complete your culinary experience. End your day with a stroll through the town, perhaps catching a local performance at an outdoor venue.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1L) | $0.9-2 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket | $1.5-2 |
| 🧀Grocery staple (bread, cheese) | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming historic center with easy walking access
- Excellent markets and prune specialties unique to the region
- Smaller nightlife compared to big cities
- Limited direct international flight options from Agen's airport
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où sont les toilettes ?" - Where are the toilets?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Agen
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic canal bridge offering reflections and a classic city silhouette, ideal at dawn or golden hour.
Impressive Romanesque-Gothic façade and interior with dramatic arches perfect for architectural photography.
Historic square with arcaded facades and lively street activity.
Riverside promenade with boat traffic, sunsets, and wide views of the city.
Food in Agen
Agen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty cassoulet variation with white beans and duck confit, a winter staple in Agen.
Must-Try!
Duck breast finished with a prune-based glaze, reflecting the local prune orchards.
Desserts featuring pruneaux d’Agen, often in tarts or compotes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic covered market offering fresh fruits, cheeses, wines, and prune specialties; great for tasting on the go.
Outdoor weekly market around Place Wilson with seasonal produce, breads, pastries, and local specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet shop staff with 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' and 'Monsieur/Madame'. A handshake is common; la bise is usually reserved for friends and family.
Speak politely in public; avoid loud conversations in quiet spaces and houses of worship; dress modestly for sacred sites.
Safety
Tipping in Agen
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included in restaurant prices. If not, leaving 5-10% for good service is common; rounding up at cafes is appreciated.
Credit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful in markets and smaller shops. Contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming gardens; carry a light jacket for cooler mornings and evenings.
Warm to hot days; sun protection is essential. Expect lively markets and outdoor dining.
Pleasant temperatures with colorful foliage; prune-season flavors appear in menus.
Milder than much of France but cool; expect rain and overcast days. Layered clothing recommended.
Agen at Night
Hiking in Agen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic riverside route with gentle grades and views of the city.
A moderate loop through a classic bastide town with stone architecture and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Agen by plane.
Small regional airport with light domestic service; taxi or rental cars available.
Major international airport about 1.5-2 hours by road or rail from Agen.
Large international hub about 1.5-2 hours away by highway/train.
Smaller regional airport with some seasonal and national connections; drive or bus transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Suburban neighborhoods are popular with families; schools and parks are well developed.
Some work in agriculture, services, and regional businesses; active in the city’s markets and cultural scene.
Agen attracts retirees seeking a relaxed lifestyle with access to amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is deeply ingrained in the southwest; watch a regional match or join a club.
Local clubs and amateur leagues offer recreational play and fixtures.
Common in schools and community centers; casual games and leagues available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Agen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for ratatouille, grilled vegetables, salads, and cheese plates. When ordering, specify no meat stock or lardons.