Things To Do
in Angoulême
Angoulême is a compact, hill-perched city on the Charente River, where medieval ramparts frame pastel houses and winding lanes. It is renowned for its comic-book culture, crowned each year by a major international festival that draws creators and fans from around the world. The old town exudes charm with its vaulted passages, cathedral spires, and sunny plazas, while nearby vineyards and forested hills invite easy day trips.
All year round, Angoulême blends heritage, culture, and a relaxed Charente lifestyle that rewards slow exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a cozy café in the heart of Angoulême, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the picturesque streets, admiring the stunning architecture and vibrant murals that adorn the walls. Don’t miss a visit to the Angoulême Cathedral, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture that dates back to the 12th century.
Spend your afternoon exploring the Angoulême Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of fine arts and the history of the region. Afterward, wander through the charming streets of the old town, stopping by local boutiques and artisan shops to pick up unique souvenirs. Conclude your afternoon at the Parc de la Préfecture, where you can relax in the lush gardens and enjoy the panoramic views of the city.
As the sun sets, savor a delightful dinner at a traditional French bistro, indulging in local specialties such as confit de canard or a fresh seafood dish. Following dinner, take a stroll along the Charente River, where the evening lights create a magical atmosphere. End your day with a glass of wine at a riverside bar, soaking in the ambiance of this charming city.
Start your day with a visit to the Cité Internationale de la Bande Dessinée et de l'Image, an entire museum dedicated to comic strip art, which Angoulême is famous for. Immerse yourself in the world of cartoons as you explore exhibits showcasing both classic and contemporary works. Afterward, grab a quick bite at a nearby café, sampling some local cheeses and charcuterie.
In the afternoon, embark on a comic-themed walking tour of the city, where you can spot murals and street art that celebrate the vibrant comic culture of Angoulême. Consider visiting local comic book shops to discover rare editions and meet passionate artists. Wrap up your exploration with a visit to the Maison des Auteurs, where you can learn about the craft of comic creation.
For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at a quirky restaurant that embraces the comic theme in its decor and menu. Afterward, consider attending a live drawing session or a workshop at a local art studio, where you can tap into your inner artist. Conclude your evening with a visit to a wine bar, enjoying local vintages while surrounded by comic-inspired artwork.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥖Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🍷Glass of wine or coffee at cafe | $4-8 |
| 🎟️Cinema or theater ticket | $9-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-140 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich comic-book culture and historic architecture
- Compact city center ideal for walking and exploring
- Close access to Cognac and varied outdoor options
- High-quality markets, cafés, and regional cuisine
- Smaller nightlife scene compared with larger cities
- Limited direct international flights; expect connections via Bordeaux or Paris
- Some venues can be crowded during festival periods
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est… ?" - Where is…?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un bon restaurant ?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Je suis végétarien(ne)" - I am vegetarian
- "Où sont les toilettes ?" - Where are the restrooms?
Places to Visit in Angoulême
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic architecture with dramatic facades and lofty towers; ideal for exterior shots at golden hour.
Medieval city walls offering panoramic views of the rooftops, river, and surrounding countryside.
Riverside scenes along the Charente with boats, bridges, and reflections—great for sunset photography.
Colorful, graphic architecture and comic-inspired installations ideal for creative urban photography.
Food in Angoulême
Angoulême Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pan-seared duck breast often served with a fruit-based sauce; a regional classic best enjoyed in a rustic bistro.
Must-Try!
A Charente tradition, typically served as a pâté or terrine with baguette slices and complementary fruit or fig jam.
A fragrant, fortified wine made from grape juice and cognac, enjoyed as an aperitif or dessert accompaniment.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Lively market offering fresh produce, cheeses, bread, olives, and regional specialties; a great place to sample local flavors.
Covered market hall where vendors sell seasonal fruits, vegetables, meats, and prepared foods; ideal for a picnic or lunch on the go.
Along the riverside and in the old town, you’ll find crepes, galettes, and quick bites that showcase local produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite salutations matter: say Bon jour/Bonsoir when entering shops; use Monsieur/Madame as appropriate.
Courteous behavior in cafés and residential areas; avoid loud conversations late at night.
Keep belongings secure in crowded places; be mindful when handling fragile items in markets.
Safety
Tipping in Angoulême
Ensure a smooth experience
Service compris is often included; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for good service is customary but not required.
Cards (chip-and-PIN and contactless) are widely accepted; cash is useful in markets and small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming streets; great for walking tours and outdoor cafés.
Warm to hot days; carry sunscreen and stay hydrated. Evening strolls along the river are especially pleasant.
Soft light and fewer crowds; perfect for street photography and market visits.
Cool, damp days with possible rain; many indoor exhibits and cozy eateries are ideal for travel.
Angoulême at Night
Hiking in Angoulême
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive forest with varied trails, ideal for day hikes and nature photography near Angoulême.
Scenic routes along the river with gentle elevations and viewpoints for easy hikes.
Airports
How to reach Angoulême by plane.
Small regional airport offering limited domestic and seasonal services; convenient for short hops and nearby connections.
Larger regional airport about 100-120 km away; offers more frequent flights and connections.
Another regional option within a couple of hours’ drive; useful for accessing western Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families make up a steady portion of residents, attracted by a safe, walkable city center and access to parks and markets.
A student presence supports cafes, bookshops, and comic-themed venues, especially around festival periods.
Retirees contribute to a relaxed pace and cultural engagement, with many enjoying markets, strolls, and river life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular on country lanes and riverside paths, with routes suited for all levels.
Local clubs and matches provide community energy on weekends.
Relaxed river sports on the Charente; rental options available during warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Angoulême.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in most bistros; look for pommes frites, ratatouille, cheese plates, quiches, and seasonal salads. Don’t hesitate to ask for veggie pasta or mushrooms as a main course.