Valence Travel Guide: Best Attractions, Dining, and Things to Do in the Rhône Valley

Valence, located in the heart of the Rhône Valley, is a charming French town known for its rich history, vibrant culinary scene, and picturesque riverfront views. Valence boasts attractions like the 11th-century Cathedrale Saint-Apollinaire, the beautifully landscaped Parc Jouvet, and the Renaissance-era Maison des Têtes. With easy access to Rhône Valley vineyards, cycling routes like the ViaRhôna, and renowned dining, Valence offers a memorable blend of culture, history, and gastronomy.

Best Time to Visit Valence

The best time to visit Valence is from April to June and September to October, when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities like exploring vineyards and cycling the ViaRhôna are ideal. Spring offers blooming parks and gardens, while fall is a fantastic time for food and wine festivals, with grape harvest celebrations bringing lively events to the Rhône Valley. Summer is warmer and busier, perfect for festivals and river activities, while winter offers a quieter, cozy experience with festive holiday markets.

Getting to Valence and Getting Around Valence

• By Air: Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport is the closest international hub, about 100 km from Valence, with connections to major European cities.

• By Train: Valence TGV links to major French cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille in under three hours, and Valence Ville station is central for regional connections.

• By Car: Valence is accessible by the A7 motorway, ideal for road trippers exploring the Rhône Valley.

• Getting Around: Getting around Valence is easy due to its compact layout and efficient transportation options. The city center is highly walkable, with many attractions, shops, and restaurants within short distances. For wider exploration, bicycles are popular, especially for scenic routes like the ViaRhôna along the Rhône River. Valence also has a reliable bus network, which connects key locations in and around the city, and taxi services are readily available for more flexible travel. For regional trips, the Valence Ville and Valence TGV stations offer convenient connections to other cities in the Rhône Valley and beyond.

  
  

Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Valence

Top Attractions in Valence

Maison des Têtes

• A remarkable 16th-century mansion with intricate sculptures of human heads adorning the façade, giving the building its name. The detailed Renaissance architecture makes it a historic highlight.

Musée de Valence (Museum of Art and Archeology)

• This museum is housed in a former bishop’s palace and contains a vast collection covering local history, archeology, and fine arts from prehistoric times to contemporary pieces.

Parc Jouvet

• A 17-acre park located near the Rhône River, featuring beautiful gardens, fountains, and shaded paths. It’s a tranquil spot ideal for families, picnics, and relaxation. This picturesque park offers a fantastic view of the Rhône and is a prime spot for leisurely activities or catching a scenic glimpse of Valence’s natural surroundings.

Cathédrale Saint-Apollinaire

• This Romanesque cathedral, built in the 11th century, is a historical marvel with intricate carvings and beautiful stained glass, dedicated to Saint Apollinaris. Known for its impressive façade and peaceful interior, the cathedral is a landmark of Valence’s medieval history and an essential visit for architecture lovers.

Kiosque Peynet

• A charming 19th-century bandstand located in the Champ de Mars, famous for its design by artist Raymond Peynet. It’s an iconic site often featured in postcards of Valence. This bandstand, with its romantic association, offers a photo-worthy spot and a slice of Valence’s artistic history. It’s a popular spot for visitors and locals alike.

Pendentif de Valence

• An unusual funerary monument from the Renaissance period, known for its intricate stonework and historical significance as a rare structure in French architecture.

Le Parc de l’Épervière

• A large riverside park on the outskirts of Valence, featuring walking trails, picnic areas, and access to boating activities on the Rhône. This park provides a peaceful setting for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and picnicking along the river.

Top Activities to do in Valence

• Wine Tasting: Venture out to vineyards in the Rhône Valley for tastings, where local wines like Syrah and Grenache are crafted.

• Cycling Along the ViaRhôna: Follow this scenic route along the Rhône River, connecting Valence with nearby villages and offering beautiful countryside views.

• Market Visits: Every Saturday, the Valence market buzzes with vendors selling cheeses, fresh produce, and artisan goods. It’s a must for foodies.

• Riverfront Walks and Picnics: The Rhône banks and Parc Jouvet provide picturesque spots for riverside strolls or a classic French picnic.

• Explore the Countryside: Valence is a convenient base for day trips to nearby natural attractions like the Vercors Regional Park.

Where to Eat in Valence

• Pic: The Michelin-starred restaurant of chef Anne-Sophie Pic, serving haute French cuisine with Rhône Valley flavors.

• La Cachette: A cozy, Michelin-starred spot offering inventive, seasonal dishes inspired by local ingredients.

• Chez Grand-mère: A cozy, traditional French dining with a focus on hearty, homemade dishes inspired by regional flavors, making it a favorite for comfort food in a welcoming atmosphere.

Where to Stay in Valence

• Maison Pic: A luxury boutique hotel attached to the renowned three-Michelin-starred restaurant of the same name, run by chef Anne-Sophie Pic. The hotel offers elegant, contemporary rooms with a minimalist design, providing a calm and sophisticated environment for guests. Guests enjoy refined amenities, including access to the celebrated restaurant, as well as the bistro and cooking school, making it an ideal stay for culinary enthusiasts and those seeking a luxurious Rhône Valley experience.

• Hotel de France: Centrally located in Valence, Hotel de France combines modern style with easy access to major attractions and city highlights. It offers spacious, comfortable rooms, making it ideal for travelers who want convenience and contemporary amenities.

• Novotel Valence Sud: Set along the Rhône, Novotel Valence Sud provides a tranquil retreat with comfortable rooms, a beautiful garden, and an outdoor pool. Its riverside location and relaxed atmosphere are perfect for unwinding while staying close to Valence’s vibrant center.

Travel Tips for Visiting Valence

• Plan for Market Day: Visit the Saturday market for local flavors and a lively atmosphere.

• Reserve Restaurants in Advance: Popular places like Pic can book up quickly, especially on weekends.

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Valence’s cobbled streets and charming old town are best enjoyed on foot.

• Explore Nearby Vineyards: Valence’s Rhône Valley location provides easy access to world-class wineries.

• Check for Festivals: The town hosts various seasonal events, particularly food and wine festivals in the fall.