Top 5 things to do in Angers

Located in the west of France, Angers boasts a unique heritage. It is a city steeped in history, and was home to the Plantagenet dynasty in the 12th century. Renowned for being a city of flowers, you’ll be amazed to stroll through the thousand colours that adorn the historic capital of Anjou. Are you ready to have your eyes filled with stars?

1- Visit the Château d’Angers

Category: $ / Cultural

Description: The Château d’Angers, the most famous building in Maine-et-Loire and a must-see when visiting Angers. Occupied since the 9th century by the Counts of Anjou, construction of the château really began in the 13th century under the orders of Louis IX. The Dukes of Anjou then transformed it into a seigneurial residence in the 15th century. Construction was completed in the 16th century, and remains unchanged today. Inside the château is a historic marvel that has earned it a place on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. This is the “Hanging of the Apocalypse”, designed at the end of the 14th century by Jean de Patmos under the orders of Duke Louis I of Anjou. It is the largest woven work in medieval history. A visit to the château will give you a breathtaking view of the whole town. The visit is free for under-18s, and free for European Union citizens under the age of 26.

2- How about a bike ride and some wine?

Category: $$$ / Sport / Unusual

Description: What better way to combine two French traditions than by taking a bike ride and visiting several wineries, with the added bonus of tasting some of the region’s best wines. For around 6 and a half hours, you’ll be immersed in the vineyards of Angers, as you cycle through the west of Angers to the south-west of the city. After passing through the world-famous “La Coulée du Serrant” winery, you’ll ride along the Loire for a picnic in idyllic surroundings. Get back on your bike, and the ride continues. Now it’s time for the second wine-growing area, the Layon region, which is better known to the general public. This ride gives you the chance to explore the vineyards from top to bottom, while getting some exercise.

3- 15th-century immersion in Angers

Category: $ / Cultural

Description: Step back in time and let yourself be transported into the world of 15th-century Angers by Aldric, a medieval innkeeper who knows the city and its history better than anyone. You’ll listen to Aldric’s spellbinding stories as you visit the Maison d’Adam, Saint-Maurice Cathedral, the Episcopal Palace, the Promenade du Bout du Monde and the château. You are also invited to enjoy a medieval dish during your visit. Set your clocks back for 1? hours!

4- Outdoor Escape-game

Category: $ / Fun / Unusual

Description: This fun activity is ideal if you want to spend some quality time with the family. Playing the role of a private detective, just like Sherlock Holmes, you’ll have to solve a case of the utmost importance! A bomb is about to explode in the city, so question the witnesses and don’t waste any time! You’ve got two hours to save the city.

5- Take to the skies in a hot air balloon

Category: $$$ / Unusual

Description: Located just a few kilometres from Angers, a hot-air balloon ride over Saumur promises a breathtaking view of the Saumur castle and the Loire-Anjou-Touraine regional nature park. For safety reasons, flights take place between April and November, at times defined for the same reasons. If you’d like to take to the skies during the summer, there are two possible time slots: either from 5 to 7am, or from 5 to 9pm. You’ll be able to take advantage of just the right amount of light to dazzle your eyes.