Things To Do
in Anzin
Anzin is a small northern town in the Nord department, just inland from Valenciennes, rooted in the region's coal-mining heritage. It blends brick-and-stone architecture with modern shops, leafy streets, and riverside walks along the Sambre. Its proximity to Valenciennes makes it a convenient base for exploring Hauts-de-France's industrial history and green spaces.
The town offers friendly cafés, markets, and easy access to regional attractions, inviting travelers to slow down and soak in local life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a leisurely breakfast at a local café where you can enjoy fresh pastries and coffee. After breakfast, stroll through the charming streets of Anzin, admiring the quaint architecture and vibrant flower displays. Visit the local market to immerse yourself in the community and perhaps pick up some fresh produce or handmade crafts.
After lunch, head to the nearby Parc du Hainaut to explore its beautiful trails and enjoy nature. Spend some time relaxing by the pond or have a picnic under the trees as you soak up the tranquil environment. Take a moment to appreciate the local wildlife and the diverse flora that thrives in this serene park.
In the evening, treat yourself to dinner at a traditional French bistro, where you can savor regional specialties. Join locals at a friendly pub for drinks and conversation, allowing you to truly connect with the culture. As the night deepens, take a twilight walk through Anzin, enjoying the gentle ambiance of the lit streets.
Begin your day with a quick train journey to the nearby city of Valenciennes, where history awaits. Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts to admire an impressive collection of art spanning various periods. Allow yourself to get lost in the stories told through the exhibits as you appreciate the rich history of the region.
Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Valenciennes, stopping at local boutiques for an afternoon of shopping. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café while observing the bustling life around you. Visit the historic Belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take in panoramic views of the city.
After returning to Anzin, unwind at a cozy wine bar with a fine selection of local wines. Engage with fellow travelers or locals for lively discussions about your day's adventures. Sample a cheese platter while enjoying live music for an engaging cultural experience.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $2-5 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-100 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket | $2-4 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or hostel night | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, less-touristy base with easy access to Valenciennes and nature
- Rich regional cuisine and welcoming locals
- Good rail links to Lille, Mons, and surrounding towns
- Reasonable costs for a Northern France town
- Varied outdoor options from river walks to nearby forests
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Some traditional eateries may have limited vegetarian/vegan options
- Weather can be changeable; plan for rain even in summer
- Public transport is decent but not as frequent as in bigger cities
- Certain attractions require short trips to Valenciennes or larger towns
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "Où est ... ?" - Where is ...?
- "J'ai besoin d'aide" - I need help
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Je suis végétarien(ne)" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Anzin
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour reflections on the calm river with bridges and tree-lined banks; a simple, picturesque spot for landscape and street photography.
Brick façades, old chimneys, and weathered industrial textures near former mining districts offer gritty, evocative photos.
A short trip to Valenciennes yields cityscape shots from riverfront parks and the Grand Place, ideal for architectural detail and street scenes.
Waterways with locks and barges, providing photographic interest during different light conditions throughout the day.
Food in Anzin
Anzin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory cheese tart featuring aromatic maroilles spread on a crisp crust; a signature of the region often found in bakeries and bistros.
Must-Try!
A Flemish-inspired meat jelly served cold with pickles and bread, reflecting the cross-border culinary influences of the area.
A slow-cooked beef stew in beer, typically served with potatoes or fries, showcasing the hearty, comforting Nord cuisine.
Melted cheese over toasted bread with beer, a popular and satisfying dish in this region.
Freshly made fries (frites) served with regional sauces such as aïoli or maroilles sauce, a staple street-food choice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market stalls offering cheeses, breads, charcuterie, and seasonal produce; a great place to mingle with locals and sample regional snacks.
A short ride away, this market hub offers broader choices, including specialty cheeses, pastries, and prepared foods to eat on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' depending on the time of day; a handshake is common in formal settings, while a kiss on the cheek (la bise) occurs among friends.
Public spaces value quiet conversation; keep voices moderate on public transport and at markets. Always say thank-you (merci).
Keep hands visible on the table, wait for everyone to be served before starting, and use polite table manners.
Safety
Tipping in Anzin
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, a service charge is often included (service compris). A small optional tip (5-10%) for outstanding service is appreciated but not obligatory.
Cards are widely accepted (CB, Visa, MasterCard). Cash is handy for markets and smaller cafés; small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with mild evenings; outdoor markets and riverside walks are pleasant. Expect blue skies and occasional showers; carry light layers and sun protection.
Mild to cool with colorful foliage and frequent showers. The region’s parks provide great autumnal photography and quiet trails.
Cool to cold with possible frost and occasional snow. Interiors of cafés and museums offer cozy respite; days are shorter but markets remain cozy.
Rising temperatures, blooming trees, and fresh markets. Ideal for daytime walking tours and outdoor dining with lighter layers.
Anzin at Night
Hiking in Anzin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive forest trails near Raismes and Chaudfontaine, offering shaded paths, wildlife viewing, and easy to moderate hikes.
Regional park with diverse trails along the Scarpe and Escaut rivers, ideal for longer hikes and nature photography.
Gentle riverbank hikes and bike routes along the Sambre, suitable for scenic day trips from Anzin.
Airports
How to reach Anzin by plane.
The closest airport with regular domestic and some international flights; good rail and road connections to Anzin via Valenciennes.
A larger hub about a 1.5–2 hour drive or train ride away, useful for international connections.
Another larger European airport within a couple of hours’ travel by road and rail, convenient for low-cost carriers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residential neighborhoods with schools and services; a stable core of long-term residents.
A number of residents commute to nearby educational centers; the area has a younger, active demographic in parts of town.
Quiet, community-oriented neighborhoods with local clubs and activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple of local culture; matches and club activities are common across towns in the region.
Rural roads and nearby flatlands offer accessible cycling routes for all levels.
Local clubs offer courts and social play; a good option for outdoor recreation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Anzin.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants can offer vegetarian versions of traditional dishes or simple vegetable plates. Look for cheese-rich meals (like tarte, gratins, or salads) and always ask if stock or meat-based broths are used in soups or sauces.
Vegan options are growing but may be limited in some traditional spots; seek vegetarian dishes that can be prepared without dairy or meat and confirm sauce ingredients.
Gluten-free options are available at some restaurants. Request bread alternatives and verify sauces are GF friendly.