Planning to visit Angers in 2 days? What a great idea! It's the ideal length of time to enjoy all that this pretty town in the Loire Valley has to offer: rich historical heritage, charming town center, fascinating museums, exceptional natural areas , famous château.
Thanks to our itineraries, you'll be able to make the most of these visits and be surprised by our good addresses.
In this article, we guide you through Angers. Optimize your stay and make up your own mind about this destination with our practical tips and plenty of photos!
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Practical tips for visiting Angers in 2 days
Getting around Angers
As a dynamic city, Angers has a lively and often bustling city center! This can lead to traffic jams. If you like walking, we recommend that you get around on foot. The center, which is ideal for strolling around, isn't very spread out, and most tourist attractions are close to one another. You can also opt for the well-developed public transport network (bus and streetcar). For more information, visit the official website here. If you want to visit the surrounding area, however, you'll need to take your own car.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Loire
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars - one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a fairly compact car (many villages have narrowed the road).
- Think aboutfull insurance (parking in big cities is really tight).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Angers City Pass
To visit Angers, you can opt for the Angers City Pass. It's a great way to discover the city's major cultural sites. It is available in 3 formulas: 19€ for 24h, 28€ for 48h or 40€ for 72h. The pass also entitles the holder to discounts on public transport and bicycle hire. To find out more, visit the official website here.
Map of main attractions in Angers
Angers is a dynamic city with many tourist attractions. Here's a map to help you find your way.
Where to stay in Angers for a weekend
WHERE TO STAY IN Angers
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Downtown, to enjoy the city, its restaurants and beautiful architecture.
Hôtel L'Oisellerie - see photos and availability
Hotel 21, Foch - prices, pictures and availability
In the surrounding countryside, for greater peace and quiet
Hotel Château des Forges - see photos and availability
Our ideal itinerary: 2 days in Angers
Day 1 - 10am-12.30pm: Visit the Château d'Angers
Dominating the city from above, the Château d'Angers is a must-see if you're ever in Angers. As you stroll through the grounds, you'll be immersed in the history of France, following in the footsteps of great figures such as the good King René, Count of Anjou and also monarch of Naples and Sicily. The château is much visited. To avoid queuing, buy your tickets in advance!
You'll also be captivated by the beauty of its imposing, majestic architecture. Magnificent panoramic views of the city await you from the walkways. We were blown away! The impressive 17-tower wall conceals the Palais Comtal and the Apocalypse Tapestry Museum. It houses one of the world's finest medieval hangings. Almost 100m long, it depicts the mystical scenes of the Apocalypse. A true wonder!
Day 1 - 12:30 pm - 2 pm: Tasting Anjou cuisine
After this visit to the heart of Angers' history, let yourself be tempted by a restaurant that showcases the region's products! You'll find plenty to enjoy in the city center, which is teeming with good restaurants. Our ideas for good places to eat here, or in the meantime 2 suggestions:
- Le Restaurant Reste au 51: this bistronomic establishment will seduce you with its market cuisine, using the culinary treasures of the Anjou region to create seasonal menus. We also appreciated the warm, friendly atmosphere of the room!
- Le Restaurant 10n9: Aware of the importance of local cuisine, the chef gives pride of place to products from small-scale producers, bringing them to life on your plate. We were touched by this approach!
Day 1 - 2pm-3pm: Option 1 - Discover the Galerie David d'Angers
Discovering Angers also means discovering its key artistic figures. David d'Angers is one of them! In the heart of the town, you can visit the magnificent gallery that exhibits many of the works of this great 19th-century sculptor. A true immersion in the artist's work.
In this architectural gem, a former 13th-century abbey church, we discovered the plaster casts of monumental sculptures exhibited in Angers and other major French cities. A large skylight in the ceiling lets the light reveal the magnificence of the showroom and the sculptures by David d'Angers. You'll love the beauty of the architecture and the artwork!
Day 1 - 3pm-4pm: Option 1 - Admire Saint-Maurice Cathedral in Angers
Right next to the Galerie, set off in search of a beautiful church. Perched at the top of the beautiful montée Saint-Maurice, Angers Cathedral awaits you. From up there, you can admire the river and its silver reflections that divide the city of Angers in 2, as well as the beauty of the cathedral! We were seduced by its architecture and the treasures it contains.
Typical of the Anjou Gothic style, the building is emblematic of the Anjou architectural style. Look up and admire the stone vaults overhanging the nave. We also marveled at the superb stained-glass windows and Baroque high altar. In the coming years, the main façade will be embellished with 3 huge portals designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. Expect a bold blend of contemporary and historic!
Day 1 - 2pm-4pm: Option 2 - Explore the Musée des Beaux-Arts
Located in the heart of the city, the Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Angers is an exceptional architectural ensemble. It's worth a visit not only for its 15th-century townhouse, but also for its superb collections. We were impressed by this timeless creativity, which you can discover by strolling through the 3000m2 site! Thanks to two routes, history and fine arts, you can delve into the past of the city of Angers and the region, as well as contemplate superb works of art.
Travel from prehistory to the 20th century to understand the city and its evolution through hundreds of archaeological artifacts. The site's other 3 floors reveal over 300 paintings and sculptures, including an exceptional series of 18th-century paintings. We also recommend a visit to the courtyard for its colorful outdoor art installations.
Day 1 - 5pm-5:30pm: Taking a gourmet break
4:30 pm, snack time! Take a gourmet break and indulge in a little sweetness. You're sure to find what you're looking for here:
- In the Tarterie Miam Miam, J'ai Une Faim de Loup: in the midst of a cosy, fun decor, enjoy a chocolate dessert or a melting homemade rhubarb apple tart. With their simplicity, they are reminiscent of grandmother's pastries!
- At the Once Upon A Time Tearoom: you'll be able to choose from delicious pastries and cakes. Tarts, cookies, pastries and hot drinks on the menu.
Day 1 - 5:30-7pm: Stroll through the historic city center
Take a stroll through the historic streets of the town center to admire the architecture. Rue de l'Oisellerie, rue Saint-Laud and rue Saint-Aubin reveal medieval and 17th-century architecture. You'll also see beautiful churches like the two-tone Notre Dame des Victoires. We also admired the magnificent half-timbered houses and sumptuous townhouses in the beautiful Doutre district.
Downtown Angers is full of art! Sculptures, installations, gargoyles and murals. We particularly liked the Maison Bleue and its extraordinary art deco blue mosaic façade. Other walls are covered in street art, and medieval houses conceal bizarre sculptures. You'll love the variety of materials and colors! Find out more about these artistic escapes here.
Day 1 - 7-9pm: Dinner in a gourmet restaurant
Put some creativity back on your plate and let yourself be tempted by one of the city's famous gourmet restaurants. Among all our good addresses, we particularly liked the Restaurant Lait Thym Sel. This Michelin-starred restaurant features seasonal local produce and delicate natural wines. Colorful and tasty, the plates are like paintings! Here, culinary creativity meets eco-responsibility. We were won over.
Day 1 - 9pm: Enjoy the comfort and charm of your hotel
After a busy day, come home to the charm of your hotel and the comfort of your room! Among our good addresses, we really appreciated it:
- L'Hôtel L'Oisellerie: a chance to sleep in a historic timber-framed house that dates back centuries! We found the rooms very pleasant and appreciated the history that permeates the walls.
- L'Hôtel Château des Forges: sleep in a château and taste French elegance in this magnificent hotel. You'll also love the view over the valley!
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information, good addresses to make your stay in the Loire Valley a success, will soon be gathered in a single ebook!
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Day 2 - 10h-11h30: Visit the Musée Jean Lurçat et de la Tapisserie Contemporaine
Near the river Maine, discover the Musée Jean Lurçat, a unique place! Nestled in a green setting and a former medieval hospital, this museum is a real gem. You'll be overwhelmed by the creativity of the textile art collections on display at this cultural center. Like us, the 12th-century building will not leave you indifferent either!
Also emblematic of Anjou's Gothic style, the architecture of the Musée Jean Lurçat is remarkable. We were impressed by the splendor of the vast sick room and adjoining cloister. The former hall now houses a unique tapestry, Le Chant du Monde, one of France's finest contemporary hangings. You'll be dazzled by this masterpiece, which echoes the Apocalypse Tapestry in the Château d'Angers. The artist will share with you his poetic vision of the world, at the crossroads of the sublime and the terrible.
Day 2 - 11:30am-12:30pm: Discovering the Collégiale Saint-Martin
Over a thousand years old, the Collégiale Saint-Martin is steeped in history and art! Discover its archaeological and artistic treasures. Its rich cultural program and typical Anjou architecture are sure to amaze you!
In the heart of Angers, the collegiate church is the city's oldest and one of the best-preserved Carolingian monuments in France! We appreciated the finesse of the works it houses and its distinctive Anjou Gothic architectural style, which echoes that of the Cathédrale Saint-Maurice. Every spring, the venue opens its doors to live entertainment. Why not visit the collegiate church at the same time, and take part in the Resonances Saint-Martin event? Find out more here.
Day 2 - 12:30-14:00: Enjoy a delicious lunch
For lunch, let yourself be tempted by one of our good addresses. For example, we were thrilled by Restaurant Les Petits Prés and its gourmet fusion cuisine. We discovered some very fine local produce, magnified by both French and exotic influences. The young chef has tamed our palates with his simple yet sophisticated philosophy. We also enjoyed the restaurant's understated setting, and the entertainment from the open kitchen!
Day 2 - 2pm-6pm: Venture into the Parc Terra Botanica
On the outskirts of Angers, Terra Botanica is an exceptional site for children and adults alike! It's the first plant park in France to successfully turn botany into the theme of an amusement park. This extraordinary place transported us into the mysterious world of plant life.
You'll marvel at the site's extraordinary trails, magical settings and sensational attractions, where plants and landscapes from all over the world intermingle. Like us, try this adventure and reserve your tickets now!
Day 2 - 6pm-9pm: Bistronomic dinner in a windmill
Located a 15-minute drive from Angers, Domaine du Moulin Cavier features a gourmet restaurant. Travel back in time through the majestic gates of this ancient mill. We were charmed by the rustic chic atmosphere of the place as much as by its culinary proposition. Generous in its use of local produce, the restaurant's cuisine is bold and delicious. Why not extend the experience and stay overnight? Book your room now!
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Alternative 1- Excursions in the Loire Valley
Discover the Loire castles around Angers
Nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley, Angers is surrounded by magnificent châteaux. Explore the surrounding area and discover prestigious estates. For example, we recommend a visit to the Château de Brissac-Quincé, the highest castle in France! We also really enjoyed the Château de Serrant and its exceptional library. For more ideas, see our article on the best castles to visit around Angers.
Vineyards and wine tasting
Angers is surrounded by lush vineyards and lies on the famous Loire wine route. On foot, by car, by bike or on a tour, it's great to discover the region from this angle! We particularly liked the Domaine de la Soucherie. Just a 30-minute drive from the city center, the château immersed us in the magic of the wine world!
You can also opt for tasting tours by bike, like this one, which allows you to explore the surrounding area over 2 or 5 days. There are also guided vehicle tours. There's so much to choose from!
Extend your taste experience with a wine and liqueur tasting at a winery or distillery! The region abounds in excellent wineries and exceptional spirits. Le Carré Cointreau and Distillerie Combier in Saumur, for example, welcome lovers of excellent beverages.
Visit the most beautiful villages around Angers
Angers is surrounded by small towns with all the charm of the Loire Valley. We loved the very pretty village of Béhuard, but also Savennières. A truly picturesque dive! Read our article on the most beautiful villages around Angers here for more ideas.
Take a trip by car, on foot or by bike to discover the treasures of Anjou and its splendid landscapes. Here are some ideas for hikes here and bike rides there!
Alternative 2 - Activities with children
Places to visit with children
Visiting Angers with your family? Here's our list of places that will appeal to young and old alike! Please see our ideal itinerary above, which details our experience in each of these locations.
- Terra Botanica is fun for the whole family! Reserve your tickets now. Find out more here.
- The Château d'Angers will take adults and children back in time. Get your tickets now. More info on the venue here.
- The Musée Jean Lurçat organizes activities and workshops for children, enabling curious youngsters to discover tapestry art.
- The Museum of Natural Sciences hosts a variety of exhibitions and organizes tours for children. So much to wonder about when it comes to living things!
Escape games and educational treasure hunts
Angers city center is well worth a visit, and there's plenty to keep you entertained! We recommend taking a ride on the town's little train, for example, to keep the whole family entertained. You can also opt for escape games or game courses specially designed for children!
- Take the whole family on an exciting treasure hunt guided by the laughing Peter Pan!
- Try out this treasure hunt and go in search of the Marsupilami, that funny comic book character!
Kid-friendly restaurants
We've tried several restaurants in Angers that are perfect for the whole household, parents and kids alike! Here's our list of kid-friendly restaurants:
- Restaurant La Cour: homemade burgers and gourmet desserts.
- Restaurant Mamie Fada: comforting, tasty dishes such as roast chicken, pasta and homemade sauces.
- Tarterie Miam Miam, J'ai Une Faim de Loup: chocolate desserts or melt-in-your-mouth fruit tarts.
- Once Upon A Time Tearoom: tarts, cookies, pastries and hot drinks.
What you need to know for your weekend in Angers
The weather in Angers
The weather in Angers is generally mild but can be changeable. It can rain even during dry spells, and a sunny day can be suddenly interrupted by brief showers. We recommend that you bring a raincoat, rather than umbrellas that turn over in windy conditions!
Crowds in Angers
Just a stone's throw from some of the Loire Valley's finest châteaux, Angers attracts more and more people in summer. We advise you to book your accommodation in advance. Read our article on where to sleep in Angers to get some ideas! You can also come unannounced outside the high season. Prices are more affordable and there are some interesting last-minute offers. In winter, Angers remains a charming city!
DISCOVER Angers
- Things to do in Angers
- Where to sleep in Angers: best hotels
- Where to eat in Angers: best restaurants
- Rent a car in Angers
- Visit the Château d'Angers
- Visit the Museum of Fine Arts in Angers - coming soon
- Château de Brissac
- Terra Botanica
- Best castles around Angers
- Most beautiful villages around Angers
HE MADE THE TRIP Manu
