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If you have done the things to do in France, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Angouleme.
Welcome to Angouleme, a vibrant city nestled in the heart of southwestern France, where time slows down and the senses awaken.
From wandering the cobblestone streets brimming with cultural and historical treasures to exploring the lush greenery of its parks and gardens, there is no shortage of things to do in Angouleme.
Whether you’re seeking to satisfy your inner art lover or indulge in the local culinary scene, there’s something here to captivate every traveler.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Angouleme:
1. Musée de la Bande Dessinée
A museum entirely dedicated to comic strip art and graphic novels.
What to see or do: Explore the vast collection of over 9,000 original comic strip artworks and graphic novels, dating back to the early 20th century.
Discover the history of comics in France and around the world through exhibitions, interactive displays, and multimedia installations.
Don’t miss: The permanent exhibition showcasing the evolution of comic strip art, including iconic works such as Tintin, Asterix, and Lucky Luke. Also, make sure to visit the bookstore and souvenir shop, where you can purchase graphic novels and other comic-related merchandise.
Insider travel tips: The museum is located in the city of Angouleme, known as the “Capital of Comics” due to its rich history in the industry.
Plan to spend a full day in Angouleme to explore the city’s many comic-themed murals, monuments, and events.
Check the museum’s website for upcoming exhibitions and events, including the annual Angouleme International Comics Festival, one of the largest comic festivals in the world.
2. Le Belvédère de la Glacière
Le Belvédère de la Glacière is a stunning viewpoint located in the city of Angouleme, France.
What to see or do: From the belvédère of La Glacière, you will enjoy an exceptional panorama of the city of Angouleme and its surroundings.
The viewpoint is located at the top of a hill, and from there, you can see the ancient ramparts and the Charente river.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the sunset from the viewpoint. The orange and red hues of the setting sun are breathtaking against the backdrop of the cityscape.
Insider travel tips: The belvédère is accessible by car or on foot. If you decide to hike up to the viewpoint, wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.
It’s also a good idea to have a map or GPS with you, as the trail is not well-marked.
3. Chateau de la Rochefoucauld
Chateau de la Rochefoucauld is an elegant 16th-century castle located in the town of La Rochefoucauld, near Angouleme, in southwestern France.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle’s interior to see the impressive architecture, furnishings, and artwork that reflect its rich history.
The grand hall is particularly stunning, with its intricately carved wooden ceiling and impressive fireplace. You can also explore the castle’s beautifully manicured gardens, which offer a great view of the surrounding countryside.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the castle’s exceptional staircase, which is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture. The spiral staircase features a series of intricate carvings and leads up to the castle’s impressive towers.
Insider travel tips: – Check the castle’s website for opening hours and tour schedules, as they may vary depending on the season.
4. Le Musée de la Résistance et de la Déportation
Musée de la Résistance et de la Déportation is a museum located in Angouleme, France dedicated to educating visitors about the French resistance and deportation during World War II.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s collections that include numerous documents, photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of the French Resistance and the many individuals who fought against the German occupation and Vichy regime during the war.
There are displays of uniforms, weapons, and personal effects from individuals involved in the resistance, as well as exhibits on concentration camps and the experiences of those who were deported.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience the daily life of resistance fighters and prisoners in the camps.
There is also a dedicated space for children with hands-on activities that teach them about the war and its impact on French society.
Insider travel tips: Audio guides are available in multiple languages, including English. Admission to the museum is free of charge and there is a small gift shop on site.
Plan to spend at least two hours exploring the exhibits. The museum is closed on Mondays and public holidays.
5. Le Musée d’Angoulême
Le Musée d’Angoulême is a museum of art and history located in the city of Angoulême, France.
What to see or do: The museum features a diverse collection of art and artifacts ranging from prehistory to contemporary art. Visitors can expect to see works from local artists, as well as pieces from around the world.
The collection includes paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and more.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of prehistoric artifacts, including tools and jewelry from the Neolithic period.
Additionally, visitors should check out the display on the history of comics in Angoulême, which is an important center for comic art in France.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.
6. Le Musée des Cordeliers
Le Musée des Cordeliers is a museum located in Angouleme, France that houses a variety of unique collections ranging from fine arts to archaeology.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore a vast collection of sculptures, paintings, ceramics, and furniture from the medieval era to the 21st century. The museum also showcases the fascinating history of Angouleme, with exhibits on the city’s ancient archaeology and significant industry.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the museum’s most treasured piece, the huge tapestry from the 16th century, which depicts the battle of Pavia. Also, make sure to check out the unique collection of contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Braque, and more.
Insider travel tips: If you’re planning to visit the museum, keep in mind that it’s closed on Mondays and public holidays.
If you’re looking to save some Euros, head to the museum on the first Sunday of each month for free admission.
Additionally, English audio guides are available if you’re not fluent in French.
7. Le Musée du papier “Le Nil”
Le Musée du papier “Le Nil” is a museum dedicated to paper-making and printing techniques located in Angouleme, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can discover the history of paper making and printing through interactive exhibits, videos, and demonstrations. The museum also features a collection of over 40,000 objects, including antique printing presses, rare books, posters, and photographs.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the workers in the paper-making factory at work, where visitors can watch how large sheets of paper are made by hand using traditional methods.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays and has limited hours on Sundays.
8. Le Musée du chocolat
Le Musée du chocolat is a chocolate museum located in the historic city of Angouleme in southwest France.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about the history of chocolate through interactive exhibits and displays. The museum also offers chocolate-making workshops, where visitors can create their own edible masterpieces.
Don’t miss: The museum’s tasting room, where visitors can sample different types of chocolate from around the world.
Insider travel tips: – The museum gets busy during peak tourist season, so consider visiting during weekdays or off-peak times.
9. Le Musée de la forge
Le Musée de la forge is a museum located in Angouleme in southwestern France. It is dedicated to the history and techniques of metalworking, particularly in relation to the local Charentais industry.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of tools, machines, and finished metalwork pieces.
The exhibits demonstrate the different stages of metalworking, from raw materials to finished products, with a focus on the types of tools and techniques used in the Charentais region.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is its working forge, where visitors can see a blacksmith at work and observe the creation of handmade metalwork items.
The museum also hosts temporary exhibits and events throughout the year.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located in a historic building in Angouleme’s old town, making it a great stop on a tour of the city’s sights.
10. Centre National de la Bande Dessinée et de l’Image
A national museum dedicated to comic strips and visual arts located in Angoulême, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s extensive collection of comic books and graphic novels, which includes over 200,000 titles from around the world.
There are also exhibits on the history and evolution of comics, as well as a number of temporary exhibitions featuring contemporary artists.
Don’t miss the museum’s gorgeous Art Nouveau building, which was once a 19th-century military academy.
Insider travel tips: Check the museum’s website for information on current exhibitions and events.
If you’re a comic book fan, plan to spend at least a few hours here to fully appreciate everything the museum has to offer.
Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop on your way out for some unique souvenirs and comics to take home with you.
11. Parc des expositions d’Angoulême
Parc des expositions d’Angoulême is a large exhibition center located in the city of Angoulême, France. It hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including trade fairs, concerts, and cultural exhibitions.
What to see or do: The exhibition center has over 20,000 square meters of space, so there is plenty to see and do here. Check the center’s schedule to see what events are taking place during your visit.
Some of the many events that take place here include car shows, home and garden exhibitions, and craft fairs.
Don’t miss: If you happen to be in Angoulême during the famous International Comics Festival, be sure to check out the exhibition center.
The festival is one of the largest of its kind in Europe and attracts visitors from all over the world.
Insider travel tips:
12. L’Eglise Saint-André
Located in the historic center of Angouleme, L’Eglise Saint-André is a stunning 12th-century Romanesque church and a designated Monument Historique.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the intricate carvings on the facade and the beautiful stained-glass windows inside the church. Take a moment to appreciate the ancient artwork and architecture, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning organ, which is one of the biggest in France, and the impressive bell tower that offers spectacular views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Insider travel tips: Take a guided tour to learn more about the church’s rich history and architecture. Dress modestly as it is a place of worship.
The church is open to visitors year-round and admission is free.
13. La Place du Champ de Mars
A charming public square in Angouleme, a small city in southwestern France.
What to see or do: Take a stroll and admire the picturesque architecture of the surrounding buildings. Visit the weekly market on Fridays and Sundays to browse local produce, cheeses, and crafts.
Catch a view of the Chateau d’Angouleme, a 9th-century castle that sits on a hill overlooking the city.
Don’t miss: The beautiful fountain at the center of the square, which was built in 1858. It features a statue of the city’s namesake, the angelic figure of Angouleme.
Insider travel tips: Visit the square in the evening when it’s lit up and bustling with locals and tourists enjoying a drink or a meal at one of the outdoor cafes or restaurants.
Be sure to try the local specialty, cognac, which is produced in the surrounding region.
14. Les Halles d’Angoulême
Indoor market in the heart of Angouleme, France.
What to see or do: Browse and buy local produce, including fruit, vegetables, meat, and cheese.
Don’t miss: Sampling the freshly baked bread and pastries.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to beat the crowds and get first pick of the best produce. Don’t be afraid to haggle with vendors for the best prices.