Things To Do
in Valence
Valence is a historic city in the Rhône Valley, nestled between the river and limestone hills. It blends Roman and medieval roots with a lively market culture and riverside promenades. Its compact historic center is walkable, with pastel façades, a striking cathedral, and a thriving food scene centered around the Halles de Valence.
As a gateway to the Drôme and the Rhône Valley, Valence offers cuisine, culture, and outdoor escapes within easy reach of vineyards, mountains, and southern France’s sunshine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Valence, absorbing the charm of its well-preserved architecture. The morning light casts a warm glow on the Place des Clercs, where you can enjoy a fresh croissant from a local boulangerie. Don’t forget to visit the stunning Valence Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that will leave you in awe.
After a delightful lunch at a traditional bistro, head to the Maison des Têtes, a remarkable Renaissance building adorned with intricately carved heads. Spend some time exploring the vibrant local markets, where you can find artisanal cheeses, fresh produce, and handmade goods. As the afternoon sun shines down, relax in the Parc Jouvet, a beautiful green space filled with fountains and sculptures.
As dusk falls, dine at a cozy restaurant overlooking the Rhône River, where you can savor regional specialties like ratatouille or local wines. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the riverbanks, enjoying the serene ambiance and stunning views of the illuminated city. End your day with a nightcap at a local wine bar, where you can chat with friendly locals and fellow travelers.
Kick off your culinary adventure with a visit to a local market, where you can sample fresh fruits, cheeses, and baked goods. Join a cooking class, where an expert chef will guide you through preparing traditional dishes using regional ingredients. This immersive experience will not only teach you about French cuisine but also about the cultural significance of food in the region.
After enjoying the meal you cooked, take a short walk to the nearby Parc de L'Escoutay for a peaceful afternoon in nature. Here, you can unwind by the lake, perhaps with a good book or simply soaking up the sun. Later, visit a local chocolate shop for a tasting session that will delight your sweet tooth.
For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant, where innovative dishes are crafted with the finest local ingredients. Experience a wine pairing that will elevate your dining experience, as the sommelier shares insights about the selections. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Valence, soaking in the vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧺Groceries for one week | $40-70 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $8-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $100-160 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $4-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact historic center that is easy to explore on foot
- Excellent markets and regional cuisine
- Nearby vineyards and outdoor activities
- Relaxed, welcoming atmosphere
- Parking can be challenging in peak times
- Narrow nightlife compared to larger cities
- Limited direct international flights (usually via larger hubs)
- Smaller accommodation options outside peak season
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "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 this cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un restaurant ?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
- "Je suis végétarien(ne)" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Valence
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic cathedral with striking façades and a sense of timeless grandeur, ideal for exterior shots in morning light and interior details during the day.
Elegant city park with trees, statues, a reflective pond, and tree-lined paths—great for portraits and tranquil nature photography.
The glass roof and vibrant market stalls provide dynamic indoor light and colorful scenes for candid and architectural shots.
Ruin and hilltop vantage point offering sweeping views of the Rhône Valley—especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Food in Valence
Valence Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory pork and herb meatball (often with leek) rolled into a compact croquette and fried or baked; commonly enjoyed with rustic bread and fresh vegetables.
Must-Try!
Delicate cheese-filled ravioli from the Dauphiné region, typically served in a light butter-sage or cream sauce, a Dauphiné staple found in many bistros.
Creamy potato gratin with garlic and melted cheese, a comforting classic frequently offered as a side with roasted meats.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Iconic covered market with a glass roof, offering fresh produce, cheeses, meats, seafood, and ready-to-eat bites from early morning onward.
Seasonal markets around the city center where vendors sell regional vegetables, herbs, breads, pastries, and street-ready snacks during mornings and weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say bonjour or bonsoir when entering shops or restaurants; use polite phrases and thank you regularly.
Keep your voice moderate in public spaces; meals are social events, and courses are enjoyed at a relaxed pace.
Casual tipping is optional; gifts are not typically expected for service; a simple thank you goes a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Valence
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included in restaurant bills in France, but leaving a small tip (around 5-10%) for good service is common; at cafés or bars, rounding up is appreciated.
Cards are widely accepted (including contactless); cash is also common in smaller shops; smaller vendors may prefer cash, and some places accept mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming trees; perfect for walking tours, markets, and early hillside hikes before the heat returns.
Hot, sunny days and long evenings; stay hydrated, seek shade by the river, and enjoy outdoor dining and sunset strolls.
Pleasant temperatures and grape harvest activity; ideal for wine tastings, scenic drives, and fewer crowds than peak summer.
Cool to mild with occasional frosty mornings; museums and cafés are cozy options, and holiday markets may appear in December.
Valence at Night
Hiking in Valence
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hike to the Crussol Fortress with sweeping valley views and photo opportunities.
Extensive network of trails offering alpine scenery, wildflowers, and varied difficulty for day trips from Valence.
Airports
How to reach Valence by plane.
Major international hub about 1.5–2 hours by road/train from Valence; strong rail connections to the city.
Another regional option roughly 1.5–2.5 hours away by car; smaller but with domestic and some international routes.
Located approximately 2–2.5 hours away; convenient for southern routes and seasonal charters.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A student presence from local and nearby universities, contributing to a youthful, energetic city vibe.
Parks, markets, and family-friendly eateries support a family-friendly atmosphere.
A sizable retiree community appreciating the climate, pace, and cultural offerings.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed at local clubs and regional leagues; matches can be enjoyed in season.
Rugby presence in the region with local clubs and weekend matches.
Valence serves as a base for road cycling and access to ViaRhôna and nearby vineyards.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Valence.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options; aim to request plats végétariens or plats sans viande. Markets provide plentiful vegetables, fruits, legumes, and dairy to build meat-free meals; inform staff about dietary needs when ordering.