Done all the classic tourist attractions and looking for something more? Bored of traditional tourist trails? In the sky, on the water or amidst the vines, discover the highlights of the area with our selection of original and 100% local experiences. Don’t know when is the best time to visit? In Angers there are activities to enjoy all year round!
January - Immerse yourself in the history and art of tapestry
Nestled within the walls of the Château d'Angers, the Apocalypse Tapestry, the largest collection of tapestries from the Middle Ages, is a unique masterpiece of medieval art to be discovered at the same time as the imposing château with its 17 towers and French gardens. Echoing the Apocalypse, the Jean-Lurçat and Contemporary Tapestry Museum will charm you with its ten tapestries with modern designs and the building that houses it, the former Saint-Jean Hospital. A unique experience in Angers, at the heart of the history of textile art, which will allow you to stay under cover if the weather is not good!
February – give your senses a treat with a visit to a local liqueur producer
In February, warm your palate with the sweet and fruity flavours of Angers’ traditionally made liqueurs. Want to learn all their secrets? Head to Avrillé and to Espace Menthe-Pastille, the visitor centre of the French brand Giffard, for a flavourful tour. Discover their 1001 flavours of cordials and liqueurs, go behind the scenes in the factory and hone your sense of smell at the smelling bar.
For a longer day out, continue with a visit to the Cointreau distillery. You’ll have a fantastic time learning about the iconic bottle, with notes of orange zest to delight your senses and a cocktail prepared before your eyes to finish.*
For an introduction to the local business scene, don’t miss the Made in Angers fair. It’s a great place for people of all ages to meet local business people and learn a little (or a lot) about their savoir-faire.
*Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health. Drink responsibly.
March – try your hand at boule de fort, the pétanque of northern france!
Boule de Fort is a 19th-century game and you couldn’t get a more local sport! Listed as part of the intangible cultural heritage of Anjou, its name comes from its unevenly structured bowls that have a “strong” side and a “weak” side resulting in difficult-to-control curved trajectories. You can find this original game in Angers at the Bonne Alliance bowls society (Cercle de boule de fort).
April - get into the street art vibe in Angers
Art and the walls of Angers are a love story that go back a long way! From the Apocalypse Tapestry to the city-centre walls, the story of Angers is told through woven, written and painted forms of art. Interested in street art? Opt for a guided tour where you’ll take to the streets to see the city’s finest murals, mosaics and urban works. .
May - go green at the terra botanica park
This unique attraction in Angers should be next on any plant lover’s list! With more than 500,000 plant varieties from all over the world, incredible gardens and nature-related activities, Terra Botanica is quite simply the largest plant-related theme park in Europe. It’s stunning, fascinating and has something for all levels of interest. So do you prefer the lotus or the cactus?
June – sail along the loire on a traditional river boat
What about lazing the day away like a local? Choose your craft from the gabare or toue, two charming traditional river boats, and your river from the Maine, Mayenne, Sarthe or Loire, and enjoy being told the history of the area as you float along. For a trip filled with explanations and anecdotes, Alex and Théo from Terre et Loire will be your guides. For a party cruise, opt for a trip with the boat company Atoue Loire. Loire Odyssée also offers cruises that you will never forget.
July – celebrate summer at one of Angers’ riverside cafés
In summer, guinguettes (or riverside cafés) are the place to be in Angers! The city really is ideal in summer with its sunny days and mild evenings and its many waterside terraces. Throw in a gingham tablecloth and some festoon lights and you have the guinguette spirit! Generous tapas with a delicious local twist As well as good food, riverside cafés or guinguettes are a great place to meet, chat and share laughs with friends over a good bottle of Savennières wine.
Good to know: Although guinguettes are typically most popular in summer, some are open all year round, such as those in Port Thibault and Port Albert or Le Kiviv.
August - treat yourself to a royal view from a hot-air balloon
There are some breathtaking experiences in Angers that you’ll never forget. A hot-air balloon flight over the Loire Valley is one of those! In the hands of a team of professional pilots, you’ll soar the Angevine sky to see some of the region’s most stunning scenery. Take your family along – kids will be amazed – or make it a romantic day out for two, with Anjou Nantes Montgolfières or Aérobulle.
September/october – lend a hand in the vineyard
Winemaking is a fascinating field to learn about. Here are our three favourite activities in Angers for a taste of life in the vineyards.
Grape picking taster days
From September to October, grapes are the centre of everyone’s attention in Anjou. You’ll find cookery classes, vineyard walks, tastings and of course grape picking workshops – a must-try for visitors. So get snipping!
Visit to the Maison des Vins d’Anjou
Taste the region’s finest wines without leaving the city.
Meet organic wine producers
For those seeking health and pleasure, tour the estates of dedicated organic producers, such as Pierre Chauvin, Bruno Rochard, Rochambeau, Bois Mozé and more.
November – meet local artists in la pointe
At the confluence of the Maine and the Loire, the ancient harbour village of La Pointe now attracts many local artists and craftspeople. Wander the quayside with its soft light and take time to admire the majestic trees before stepping inside an art studio. Sculptors, painters, metal artists and graphic designers all find the place inspiring.
December – get in the Christmas mood with the Soleil d’Hiver festival
Angers dazzles right through to the end of the year with the different Christmas events in its Soleil d’Hiver programme. Here’s the list of hot things not to miss.
Santa comes to Angers: He can usually be seen wandering the city centre with his loyal elves until Christmas eve. Keep an eye out for him, but don’t pull his beard!
Christmas tree market: Take a stroll beneath the illuminations, nibble from a cornet of warm roast chestnuts and shop for the future centre piece of your home’s Christmas décor.
Producers’ Market: Local producers prove Angers’ reputation for good living. You’ll find delicious smelling and tasty treats that make great gifts.
Looking for a last-minute gift? The Angers Tourist Office Gift Shop has heaps of gift ideas for all tastes and ages, from sweet or savoury treats, to books on the area, Anjou wines, stationary and very trendy T. shirts.
