Things To Do
in Valenciennes
Valenciennes, a historic city in Hauts-de-France on the Scheldt river near Belgium. It blends industrial heritage with a lively cultural scene, from grand squares to intimate cafés. The city is famous for Valenciennes lace and its resilient, friendly atmosphere.
It serves as a convenient base for exploring Flemish influences and the northern countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the picturesque streets of Valenciennes, taking in the beautiful architecture and charming cafes. Visit the Place d'Armes, where you can admire the stunning Town Hall and its iconic belfry. Stop by a local bakery to savor a fresh croissant and a café au lait before continuing your exploration.
In the afternoon, delve into Valenciennes' rich history at the Musée des Beaux-Arts, home to an impressive collection of art spanning several centuries. After your museum visit, wander through the serene Parc de la Rhônelle, where you can relax by the water and enjoy the lush greenery. Consider grabbing lunch at a local bistro, sampling regional specialties like carbonnade flamande.
As the sun sets, experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city's dining scene. Choose a cozy restaurant in the historic center to enjoy a delicious dinner featuring seasonal ingredients. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the magical ambiance of Valenciennes at night.
Begin your day with a visit to the Centre de la Mémoire, where you can learn about the local history and the impact of World War I on the region. Engage with the interactive exhibitions and gain a deeper understanding of Valenciennes' past. Afterward, enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café, sipping on coffee as you reflect on your visit.
In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the famous Le Phénix Theatre, a gem of performance art in Valenciennes. Attend a rehearsal or catch an afternoon performance if available, immersing yourself in the local arts scene. For lunch, try a nearby eatery known for its hearty regional cuisine, giving you a true taste of Northern France.
As night falls, explore the vibrant nightlife of Valenciennes. Visit a local bar or pub to enjoy a glass of wine or craft beer while mingling with locals. If you're in the mood, check out any live music events happening in the area for a lively end to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-20 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-4 |
| 🥖Loaf of bread | $1-2 |
| 🚆One-way local transport | $2-3 |
| 🍷Glass of wine in restaurant | $6-9 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable center with historic charm
- Strong local cuisine and markets
- Good base for Flemish-influenced day trips
- Access to nature and parks nearby
- Weather can be changeable and rainy
- Smaller tourist scene compared to bigger French cities
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "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 Valenciennes
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic belfry offering panoramic views over the city and river.
Impressive façade and surrounding square ideal for architectural shots.
Golden hour sunsets along the river with reflections on the water.
Grand square with historic buildings and daily life scenes.
Food in Valenciennes
Valenciennes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mussels cooked with herbs and white wine (often beer) and served with a side of fries.
Must-Try!
Beer-braised beef stew, typically served with potatoes or bread.
Savory cheese tart featuring Maroilles, a tangy regional cheese.
Chilled Flemish terrine of meats set in jelly, traditionally enjoyed with pickles.
Seasoned minced-meat sausages commonly found in markets and casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Covered market offering local cheeses, charcuterie, seafood, and fresh produce.
Open-air market near the historic square with ready-to-eat snacks and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir'; say 's'il vous plaît' and 'merci'.
French is the primary language; basic English may be spoken in tourist areas.
Keep voices moderate in public and respect queuing and ordering etiquette.
Safety
Tipping in Valenciennes
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is often included; rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common for good service.
Cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash is still useful at markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional showers; expect bustling streets, outdoor dining, and riverfront activities.
Mild to cool days with colorful foliage; great for city walks and markets.
Cool to cold with shorter days; indoor museums and cafés provide warmth and culture.
Milder temperatures, blooming trees, and seasonal markets.
Valenciennes at Night
Hiking in Valenciennes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic trails through the regional park with birdwatching and lakes.
Flat riverside trails suitable for hiking and cycling.
Airports
How to reach Valenciennes by plane.
The closest major airport with domestic and international connections.
A regional airport with affordable European flights, reachable within about an hour by car or train.
Major international hub accessible by rail or road, a bit farther but well connected.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant student presence thanks to nearby universities and institutes.
Many families live in the city with surrounding suburban neighborhoods.
A steady senior community with active social clubs.
Diverse communities contributing to the local culture and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Valenciennes FC is the local professional club competing in national leagues.
Popular for both recreation and amateur races across the flat northern countryside.
Local clubs and leagues provide opportunities for spectators and participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Valenciennes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable dishes, cheeses such as Maroilles, and salads; ask for meat-free versions of local classics.