Visiting Angers: 30 Must-See Things to Do and See
Visiting Angers means diving into the heart of the history and culture of Anjou. The city is famous for its Château d’Angers, its half-timbered houses, and its medieval old town.
Angers also charms visitors with its museums, festivals, parks and gardens, as well as its walks along the Maine River. Local gastronomy, with specialties such as Quernons d’ardoise, rillons, and Anjou wines, enhances the experience.
Cultural events and festivals, such as the Premiers Plans Festival or the Cider Festival, set the rhythm of life in the city. This complete guide will help you plan your stay and fully enjoy everything the city and its surroundings have to offer.
Monuments & Historic Heritage – Angers
1. Château d’Angers and the Apocalypse Tapestry
Château d’Angers
The Château d’Angers is an imposing medieval fortress built in the 13th century, recognizable by its seventeen massive towers made of schist and limestone. It overlooks the Maine River and once protected the entrance to the city. Inside, visitors can discover gardens, a Gothic chapel, and several historic buildings. The interior museum also displays objects and models illustrating life in the Middle Ages.
It is famous for its Apocalypse Tapestry, a monumental tapestry dating from the 14th century and considered a masterpiece of the Middle Ages. It represents a vast series of woven scenes illustrating the Book of Revelation, commissioned by Louis I of Anjou. Today, it is the largest medieval tapestry preserved in the world and a unique masterpiece of European textile art.
2. Saint-Maurice Cathedral
Saint-Maurice Cathedral Angers
The Saint-Maurice Cathedral is a Gothic building located in the heart of the city of Angers.
Construction began in the 12th century and extended over several centuries, blending different architectural styles. The cathedral is renowned for its stained glass windows, sculptures, and detailed ornaments.
It also houses remarkable works of art and historical elements. Visitors can admire the bell tower, chapels, and the cathedral treasury.
Saint-Maurice Cathedral is an essential religious and cultural symbol of Angers.
3. Saint-Jean Church
The Saint-Jean Church is a Gothic-style religious building located in the old town. It stands out for its elegant architecture and colorful stained glass windows.
The church has been an important place for the spiritual and community life of Angers over the centuries.
The interior sculptures and ornaments reflect the region’s religious art.
4. Old town and half-timbered houses
The old town of Angers is characterized by its cobbled streets and half-timbered houses typical of the medieval and Renaissance periods. The colorful and ornate façades reflect the city’s historic charm. The old town is home to artisan shops, cafés, and small picturesque squares.
Tip:
There are lines on the ground designed to guide visitors along the main routes of Angers.
5. Verdun Bridge and the banks of the Maine
Verdun Bridge Angers
The Verdun Bridge is a historic bridge crossing the Maine River and linking different districts of the city. It offers panoramic views of the river and its landscaped banks.
6. City Hall and Place du Ralliement
Angers City Hall
The Angers City Hall is located on the Place du Ralliement, the vibrant heart of the city. The historic building combines classical architecture with modern elements following renovations.
The square is surrounded by cafés, restaurants, and shops, creating a lively and friendly atmosphere. Events and markets are regularly held there, reinforcing the square’s central role.
7. Adam House
Adam House
Adam House, built around 1491, is one of the medieval jewels of the city of Angers. This half-timbered (timber-framed) building is decorated with richly detailed sculptures: fantastic animals, biblical figures, and secular characters adorn its carved wooden posts.
The name “Adam” comes from the sculpted representations of Adam and Eve around a “tree of life” on one of the corner posts. The building has six levels: a ground floor, three upper floors, then two attic levels, and also features a vaulted basement.
Listed as a historical monument since September 28, 1922, it is a valuable testament to 15th-century architecture. Since 1992, Adam House has housed the Maison des Artisans, bringing together more than 80 craftspeople (ceramicists, sculptors, jewelers, etc.) within its spaces.
Museums & Culture – Angers
1. Angers Museum of Fine Arts
Angers Museum of Fine Arts
The Angers Museum of Fine Arts presents more than 300 works—paintings, sculptures, and art objects—from the 14th century to the present day. It holds remarkable collections of old master paintings, notably Italian and Flemish primitives, as well as French artists from the 18th century such as Fragonard and Boucher.
The museum also displays sculptures, ceramics, and decorative objects illustrating the history of Western art. On the ground floor, a tour retraces the history of the city through objects, portraits, and models. The historic building, combining a Gothic residence and former seminaries, also hosts temporary exhibitions and themed activities.
2. Jean-Lurçat Museum and Museum of Contemporary Tapestry
Jean-Lurçat Museum and Museum of Contemporary Tapestry
The Jean-Lurçat Museum is dedicated to the art of contemporary tapestry and pays tribute to the artist Jean Lurçat.
Jean Lurçat (1892–1966) was a French painter and master tapestry artist, considered the renovator of contemporary tapestry. He played a major role in reviving the Aubusson tapestry workshops after the Second World War. His works are characterized by powerful motifs, often inspired by nature and humanist themes.
The museum exhibits modern tapestries as well as works by other contemporary creators. Visitors can discover the creative techniques and the evolution of this art form throughout the 20th century.
Temporary exhibitions highlight new trends and artists. The museum also offers educational workshops to raise public awareness of tapestry art.
3. Natural History Museum
Natural History Museum
The Angers Natural History Museum presents collections in zoology, mineralogy, and paleontology.
Visitors can explore natural history, biodiversity, and the evolution of species.
The museum offers interactive and educational exhibitions for both children and adults.
Lectures and educational workshops are regularly organized to explore specific scientific themes in greater depth.
4. Le Quai Theater and cultural venues
The Le Quai Theater is a major cultural center in Angers, hosting theater, dance, and music performances.
It offers a varied program throughout the year for all audiences. The modern building is equipped to provide high-quality stage experiences.
Workshops and cultural activities are also organized for both children and adults. The theater contributes greatly to the artistic and cultural life of the city.
Parks, Gardens & Walks – Angers
1. Terra Botanica
Terra Botanica is a theme park located in Angers, dedicated to the plant world and biodiversity. It covers 12 hectares and features more than 5,000 plant species from around the world. Visitors can explore different environments such as tropical gardens, greenhouses, orchards, and wetlands.
The park also offers fun and interactive attractions, including slides, suspension bridges, and educational trails for children.
Terra Botanica organizes seasonal exhibitions and activities to raise awareness about the environment and plant conservation. The park includes themed areas focused on edible plants, rare flowers, and medicinal plants. It also hosts cultural events, shows, and hands-on workshops for the whole family.
2. Jardin du Mail
The Jardin du Mail is a public park located in the heart of Angers, created in the 18th century and redesigned in the 19th century in the classical French style.
It covers approximately 2.5 hectares and features wide tree-lined paths and flower beds.
The garden is laid out with fountains, statues, and ponds that create a peaceful and elegant atmosphere.
3. Parc Balzac
Balzac Park
The Parc Balzac is a quiet green space located in a residential area of Angers. It offers lawns, walking paths, and playgrounds for children.
Angevin Gastronomy
Quernons d’ardoise
Quernons d’ardoise are traditional chocolates from Angers, filled with nougatine and coated in dark chocolate. This sweet specialty is emblematic of the city and its gastronomy. They are often found in local pastry shops and chocolatiers.
Caillettes and rillauds
Caillettes and rillauds are meat specialties typical of the Anjou region. Caillettes are small portions of minced meat and vegetables wrapped in caul fat. Rillauds are slowly cooked, flavorful pieces of pork.
Rillons and rillettes of Anjou
Pork rillauds Angers
Rillons and rillettes of Anjou are specialties made from seasoned, confit pork. They are enjoyed as a starter, main dish, or during regional aperitifs. Visitors can find them in artisan butcher shops or local markets.
Cider and Anjou wines
Anjou wine bottle
Anjou is renowned for its locally produced ciders and wines. Cider pairs perfectly with desserts and traditional dishes. Anjou wines, both white and red, reflect the richness of the terroir and local viticulture. Cellar visits and tastings are available to visitors.
Activities – Angers
The many bars in Angers often offer traditional Breton or Vendéen shuffleboard games.
Vendéen Palet Game
Vendéen Palet Game
Very popular throughout the Greater West region, the Vendéen palet is a friendly skill-based game reminiscent of pétanque in spirit and mechanics.
Players throw cast iron palets toward a small piece called the master, placed on a wooden board. The goal is simple: place your palets as close as possible to the master or knock the opponent’s palets away.
Easy to set up and highly accessible, this game is often associated with village festivals and friendly gatherings.
Breton Palet Game
The Breton palet is a similar variant, but with marked regional characteristics. Here, players use a lead board, which affects the bounce and glide of the palets.
The principle remains the same: aim for the master, gain the advantage in precision, and remove the opponent’s palets to score points. Deeply rooted in Breton culture, this game combines tradition, skill, and a warm atmosphere.
Major Events – Angers
1. Premiers Plans Festival
The Premiers Plans Festival is a major cinematic event held annually in Angers. It highlights the first films of young European directors.
Screenings take place in multiple cinemas across the city, offering a diverse and rich program. Meetings with directors and workshops are organized for both professionals and the public.
2. Travel Sketchbook Rendez-vous
The Travel Sketchbook Rendez-vous is a festival dedicated to drawing, illustration, and travel journaling. Visitors can meet authors, participate in workshops, and attend lectures.
The event promotes creativity and cultural exchange around travel journals. It attracts professionals and enthusiasts of all ages, both local and international.
3. Cider and Gastronomy Festival
The Cider and Gastronomy Festival celebrates local products and the culinary expertise of Anjou. It features tastings, markets, and activities centered on cider, wines, and regional specialties.
Excursions Around Angers
1. Château de Brissac
The Château de Brissac is located about 15 km from Angers and is the tallest castle in France. It is renowned for its Renaissance architecture and its history linked to the Dukes of Anjou.
Visitors can explore the richly decorated apartments and ceremonial rooms. Guided tours reveal anecdotes and legends of the castle, including its ghosts. The gardens and parks surrounding the castle offer beautiful walks.
2. Fontevraud Abbey
The Fontevraud Abbey is one of the largest monastic complexes in Europe, located about 40 km from Angers. It hosted monks and abbots, as well as the tombs of the Plantagenets. Visitors can explore the cloisters, the refectory, and the abbey gardens. Exhibitions and guided tours highlight the history, art, and architecture of the site.
3. Saumur and its vineyards
Saumur, located about 40 km from Angers, is famous for its castle and Anjou wines. Visitors can explore local cellars and vineyards and taste renowned wines. The Château de Saumur offers exceptional views over the Loire Valley. The town also offers museums, shops, and typical restaurants. Equestrian activities are available thanks to the region’s famous cavalry schools.
4. Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Natural Park
The Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Natural Park is a protected area stretching several tens of kilometers around Angers. It offers varied landscapes: forests, meadows, vineyards, and picturesque villages. Marked trails allow hiking, cycling, and observing local wildlife and flora.
Conclusion: Visiting Angers
Visiting Angers means discovering a city where heritage, culture, and gastronomy come together. From the Château d’Angers to the old town and its medieval neighborhoods, each site tells the history of the region.
Museums, festivals, and cultural venues offer varied experiences, while parks and gardens provide spaces for relaxation in the heart of the city. Local specialties such as Quernons d’ardoise, rillons, and Anjou wines complete the visit with authentic flavors.
Excursions around Angers, to Brissac, Fontevraud, or Saumur, allow for an extended discovery of Anjou. Visiting Angers is a complete and memorable experience for any traveler seeking heritage, culture, and gastronomy.
