Valence
· FR

Valence

Valence, Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes, France

Valence: Where History Meets Gastronomy on the Banks of the Rhône Nestled amidst rolling hills in the heart of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, Valence is a charming city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and ga…

#Valence#Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes#France#Historic city#Cultural attractions
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Valence.

Top Hotels in Valence

Top Flights to Valence

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Valence.

Tours

Valence City Tour

Explore the vibrant city of Valence with a guided walking tour through historic sites and cultural landmarks.

Shopping

Shopping at Victor Hugo Street Market

Discover local products and enjoy shopping at the bustling street market located in the heart of Valence.

Outdoor

Outdoor Adventure in The Vercors Mountains

Enjoy hiking and climbing in the beautiful Vercors Regional Natural Park.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Valence.

Currency
€ | EUR | Euro
Population
Information not available.
Languages
French, French, Occitan
Average weather
Valence
Jan
cold
7°1°
Feb
cold
9°2°
Mar
cloud
13°4°
Apr
rain
16°7°
May
sun
20°11°
Jun
clear
25°15°
Jul
hot
29°18°
Aug
hot
28°17°
Sep
sun
24°14°
Oct
cloud
18°10°
Nov
rain
11°5°
Dec
cold
8°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Valence.

What people love

Valence, located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, offers several pros for travelers:

  1. Rich history and culture: Valence has a long history dating back to Roman times, and visitors can explore historic sites such as the Cathedral of Saint-Apollinaire and the Château de Crussol. The city also has a vibrant cultural scene with museums, art galleries, and theaters.

  2. Gastronomy: Valence is known for its excellent cuisine, particularly its local specialty, the Valrhona chocolate. Visitors can enjoy delicious meals at local restaurants and cafes, as well as explore the local markets and food festivals.

  3. Scenic beauty: Valence is situated on the banks of the Rhône River, surrounded by picturesque countryside and vineyards. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the river, explore the nearby Ardèche Gorges, or go wine tasting in the Rhône Valley.

  4. Outdoor activities: The region around Valence offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and kayaking. Visitors can also enjoy golfing, horseback riding, or simply relaxing in the beautiful natural surroundings.

  5. Convenient location: Valence is well-connected by train and road, making it easy to reach from other major cities in France such as Lyon and Marseille. The city also serves as a gateway to the Provence region, with its charming villages and lavender fields.

Overall, Valence is a great destination for travelers looking to experience French culture, cuisine, and natural beauty in a charming and historic setting.

What to know

Valence, located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, is a charming city with a rich history and picturesque surroundings. However, like any destination, there are some potential drawbacks to traveling to Valence. Here are some cons to consider:

  1. Limited public transportation: Valence is a relatively small city, and while it does have a bus system, the public transportation network may not be as extensive or convenient as in larger cities. This could make it more challenging to get around the city and explore the surrounding areas without a car.

  2. Language barrier: While many people in Valence, especially those working in the tourism industry, may speak English, the primary language spoken in the region is French. If you are not fluent in French, you may encounter some difficulties communicating with locals and navigating daily interactions.

  3. Limited nightlife: Valence is not known for its vibrant nightlife scene compared to larger cities like Lyon or Paris. If you are looking for a bustling nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment options, you may find Valence to be relatively quiet in the evenings.

  4. Seasonal weather variations: The weather in Valence can vary significantly throughout the year, with hot summers and cold winters. Depending on your preferences, you may find the climate to be too extreme during certain seasons.

  5. Limited tourist attractions: While Valence has a few notable attractions such as the historic Old Town and the Saint-Apollinaire Cathedral, it may not offer as many tourist activities and sights as other popular destinations in France. If you are seeking a destination with a wide range of attractions and activities, you may find Valence to be relatively limited in this regard.

Overall, while Valence has much to offer in terms of history, culture, and natural beauty, it may not be the ideal destination for travelers seeking a bustling urban environment or extensive tourist amenities.

Valence is a city located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France. It serves as the capital of the Drôme department. Valence has a rich history that dates back to ancient times and has been shaped by various significant events and figures over the centuries.

Ancient and Medieval History:

  • Roman Era: Valence was originally a Roman settlement known as "Valentia Julia" during the 2nd century BC. Its strategic location on the banks of the Rhône River made it an important hub in the Roman road network.
  • Middle Ages: Valence became a bishopric in the 4th century, which helped it grow in importance. During the medieval period, the city developed around its cathedral and was fortified with walls.
  • University of Valence: In the 15th century, Valence became known for its university, established in 1452 by the Dauphin Louis (later King Louis XI of France). The university attracted scholars from across Europe and was renowned for its studies in law and arts.

Renaissance and Early Modern Period:

  • The city continued to flourish during the Renaissance, benefiting from its location on major trade routes. Valence was a significant center for humanist thought and education during this time.
  • Religious Wars: Like much of France, Valence was affected by the Wars of Religion (1562–1598). The city changed hands several times between Catholic and Protestant forces but remained largely Catholic.

18th and 19th Centuries:

  • Napoleonic Era: During the Napoleonic Wars, Valence's strategic location once again made it significant. Napoleon Bonaparte himself attended the military school in Valence from 1785 to 1786, which is a notable part of its history.
  • Industrial Revolution: The 19th century saw Valence expand with industrialization. The construction of railways further enhanced its role as a transportation hub.

20th Century to Present:

  • Valence was occupied during World War II by German forces but was liberated in 1944. The post-war period saw further growth and modernization.
  • Today, Valence is known for its vibrant cultural scene and serves as a regional center for commerce and industry.

Significant Landmarks:

  • Valence Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Apollinaire): A Romanesque-Gothic structure dating back to the 11th century. It has been a significant religious site for centuries.
  • Maison des Têtes: A Renaissance building known for its intricate façades decorated with heads and figures.
  • Champ de Mars and Kiosque Peynet: A beautiful public park offering views of the surrounding landscape, with a famous bandstand named after the illustrator Raymond Peynet.
  • Musée de Valence: Hosting collections of art and archaeology, it provides insights into the region's history from prehistory to the present.

Valence continues to be a significant cultural and economic center in southeastern France, balancing its rich heritage with modern development.