Things To Do
in Avion
Avion is a small, welcoming commune in the Pas-de-Calais department of northern France, quietly situated near Lens and Arras. It sits in the Hauts-de-France region, offering a calm base with easy access to history-rich landscapes and rural charm. The town blends a compact, pedestrian-friendly center with nearby monuments and green spaces ideal for strolls and day trips.
Surrounding fields and waterways typify the region’s tranquil countryside, where Flemish influences meet Northern French simplicity.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in Avion by visiting the local market, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh produce. Wander through the cobbled streets, taking in the beautiful architecture that reflects the town's rich history. Don't forget to grab a pastry from a nearby bakery to fuel your exploration.
After lunch, visit the nearby Lille, just a short drive away, where you can explore the Palais des Beaux-Arts, home to an impressive collection of artwork. Stroll through the charming Old Town, getting lost in the delightful alleyways and enjoying a coffee at a quaint café. Make sure to take some photos of the stunning architecture that surrounds you.
As the sun sets, return to Avion for a traditional French dinner at a local bistro. Savor exquisite regional dishes paired with a glass of fine wine while indulging in the festive ambiance. Afterward, take a leisurely walk to admire the town illuminated at night.
Start your day with a peaceful stroll in Parc de la Glissoire, where you can appreciate the serenity of nature and perhaps enjoy a morning picnic. The park is perfect for families, providing lovely green spaces for children to play. Capture photos of the picturesque landscapes that surround you.
In the afternoon, visit the Parc de la Ciboulette, where you can enjoy outdoor activities like cycling or walking along the numerous trails. It's a great opportunity to see local wildlife and enjoy a moment away from the hustle and bustle. Relax on a bench with a book or simply take in the fresh air.
As the evening falls, engage in a local cultural event, perhaps enjoying live music or outdoor theatre in one of the parks. The vibrant atmosphere adds a unique touch to your local experience. Cap off the day with a nightcap at a nearby bar, reflecting on the beautiful moments spent in nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-6 |
| 🥗Mid-range restaurant meal | $15-25 |
| 🧀Cheese and groceries for a week | $60-100 |
| 🚆Monthly public transit pass | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact town with easy access to major historic sites
- Rich regional cuisine and approachable dining scene
- Good base for exploring Louvre-Lens, Vimy, and Mont Saint-Eloi
- Walkable town centers and scenic canal routes
- Limited nightlife within Avion itself; requires trips to Lens or Arras
- Smaller town atmosphere may feel quiet for some travelers
- Seasonal weather can be variable; plan for rain in shoulder seasons
- Certain services and attractions may have limited hours on Mondays or holidays
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "S’il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est… ?" - Where is…?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "L’addition, s’il vous plaît." - The bill, please.
Places to Visit in Avion
Visit one of these nice places.
Contemporary architecture with a striking glass atrium that juxtaposes with its brick surroundings, offering dramatic light for exterior and interior shots.
Majestic monument set in rolling fields, ideal for solemn, landscape, and commemorative photography, especially at sunrise or golden hour.
Historic square with ornate facades, bustling markets, and atmospheric street shots—great for candid photography and night illumination.
Hilltop vantage with abbey ruins and expansive views of the surrounding countryside, perfect for panoramic shots.
Food in Avion
Avion Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Nord-Pas-de-Calais meat terrine (pork and sometimes chicken) set in a light jelly, traditionally served cold with fries and pickles.
Must-Try!
Beef slow-cooked in beer with onions, often served with potatoes or crusty bread.
Endives wrapped in ham, baked under a creamy cheese sauce—the region’s comforting specialty.
A savory cheese tart featuring Maroilles, a regional strong-smavored cheese.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main weekly market with fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and regional specialties—great for sampling and picking up picnic items.
Local market in Avion offering seasonal produce, cheeses, sausages, and ready-to-eat bites from market stalls.
Casual stalls and fritteries offering quick fries, Belgian-inspired snacks, and regional bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite bonjour or bonsoir is customary when entering shops; address people with formal greetings until invited to use first names.
Northern French etiquette emphasizes politeness and punctuality; keep voices moderate in public spaces and queue patiently.
Keep hands visible on the table during meals, wait for everyone to be served before starting, and try regional specialties with interest.
Safety
Tipping in Avion
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. A small tip (5-10%) for good service is common in restaurants and cafés, with rounding up for casual service accepted.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; contactless payments are usual. Cash is still handy at markets and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with mild to warm temperatures; occasional rain showers. Comfortable for outdoor exploration and canal walks, but bring a light rain layer.
Milder daytime temperatures with turning foliage; pleasant for city strolls and market visits, with a higher chance of rain.
Cool to cold weather with potential frost and occasional snow; shorter daylight hours—plan outdoor activities in daylight and enjoy warm cafes.
Growing warmth and blooming landscapes; ideal for hiking near Vimy and Mont Saint-Eloi, with moderate rainfall.
Avion at Night
Hiking in Avion
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A modest hill with abbey ruins and panoramic views; a popular short hike near Lens and Avion.
Historical trails around the memorial area, with interpretive panels and peaceful countryside scenery.
Flat, scenic routes along the canal and river corridors, ideal for easy day hikes and cycling.
Airports
How to reach Avion by plane.
Closest regional airport with domestic and some international connections; good for short trips within Europe.
Major international hub about a 2-hour drive or rail connection from northern France; convenient for long-haul connections.
Smaller international airport with several budget carriers; manageable for short trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families make up a large portion of the community, drawn by good schools, parks, and gentle neighborhoods.
Proximity to Lens and Arras provides access to education and regional employment; a youthful, energetic local scene in nearby towns.
Visitors attracted by the Vimy Memorial, Louvre-Lens, and regional markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region has a strong football culture with local clubs and casual matches reflecting a passion for the sport.
Quiet rural roads and canal paths make cycling a popular local activity, with scenic routes along the Deûle and Scarpe valleys.
Rugby has a presence in northern France, with community clubs and local matches contributing to regional sports culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Avion.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can find hearty vegetable dishes and cheese-forward options; many places can adapt dishes by omitting meat or substituting with mushrooms, legumes, or extra vegetables. Ask for seasonal veggie plates and cheese-based dishes such as Maroilles tart as satisfying meat-free choices.