Are you planning to spend 3 days in Angers? It's a great idea! You can discover the treasures of this charming town near the châteaux of the Loire: an exceptional history and heritage, a picturesque town center, captivating museums, remarkable natural areas, exceptional local produce, not forgetting its famous château.
In this article, we suggest detailed itineraries to visit Angers in 3 days and not miss a thing! Check out our practical tips and our many photos to make up your own mind about this destination.
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 3 days
What can you see in Angers in 3 days? Is it long enough?
In our opinion, 3 days is enough to discover Angers and soak up its atmosphere. You can visit iconic museums, admire stunning works of art and monuments, survey the Château des Ducs d'Anjou, sample local cuisine and even venture into the city's verdant surroundings. Which is already a lot!
Maps of must-see attractions
To help you find your way around our itinerary below, here's our map of Angers' main tourist attractions:
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. But be prepared for a few ups and downs. You can also opt for the well-developed public transport network (bus and streetcar). For more information, visit the official website here. We do, however, recommend a car for sightseeing.
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.
Where to stay in Angers
Angers boasts a wide range of hotels, from historic charm to design, from friendly to luxury. There's something for everyone! Here are some of our suggestions.
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: 3 days in Angers
Day 1 - 10am-12pm: 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 - 12:30-14:30: Lunch in a friendly restaurant
After this visit to the heart of Angers' history, let yourself be tempted by a restaurant with a friendly atmosphere! 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:
- Enjoy sunny, tasty cuisine at Restaurant L'Ardoise!
- Restaurant La Cour is a pleasant place for lunch. The colorful decor and friendly menu are ideal for lunch.
Day 1 - 2pm-3pm: Admire Saint-Maurice Cathedral and the view of the Maine River
Right in the center of town, 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 - 3pm-4pm: Discover the Galerie David d'Angers
Right next to the cathedral is the Galerie David d'Angers. Discovering Angers also means discovering its key artistic figures. David d'Angers is one of them! In the magnificent gallery dedicated to him, we admired works by this great 19th-century sculptor. A true immersion in the artist's work.
In this architectural gem, a former 13th-century abbey church, we also 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 - 4pm-5:30pm: Stroll through the historic city center
Wind your way through the historic streets of the center to appreciate the architecture and street art. 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 magnificent half-timbered houses and sumptuous townhouses.
Day 1 - 7.30-9.30pm: Dinner in a gourmet restaurant
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.
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.
Day 2 - 10am-12pm: Discovering 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 2 - 12pm-2pm: Lunch by the water or in the shade of a garden
Take a lunch break in a relaxing setting. Next to a pretty river, Restaurant le Ros[O] will conquer your palate. Nature is in the décor, but also magnified on the plate. We had a delicious, fresh time!
On the edge of the Jardin du Mail, discover Restaurant Le Mail. Pleasant both in summer and winter, the site is just a few steps from the park's green avenues. Enjoy the view and their culinary offerings!
![Chocolate dessert from Ros[O] Restaurant](https://photos.smugmug.com/Vallee-loire/n-XkSzNF/Restaurant/Restaurant-Roso/i-rKsskbS/0/M28Xw3r9S6983GWsbHTWBzL7xFnpKTxGMSsgxmbfS/L/angers-restaurant-roso-2-L.jpg)
Day 2 - 2pm-4pm: 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 - 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm: A stroll through the Doutre district
On leaving the Musée Jean Lurçat, stroll through the surrounding streets. You're in the Doutre district, one of the most beautiful in Angers! Along the way, you'll come across magnificent townhouses and medieval houses that bear witness to the town's rich history.
Day 2 - 5.30pm-7.30pm: Enjoying the comfort and services of your hotel
After a busy afternoon, come back and enjoy 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 pool with its view of the valley!
Day 2 - 7:30-9:30 pm: Treat yourself to a modern cuisine restaurant
Try the Restaurant Odorico, distinguished by its exceptional decor and modern cuisine. Blue and gold mosaic murals provide an exceptional setting for dinner. We loved the art deco poetry!
The magnificent medieval architecture and the assertive menu of Restaurant Sens's chef appealed to us. Let yourself be carried away by the finesse of our refined dishes and the sublimity of our local produce. Fish, meat and vegetables are cooked with refinement in their entirety. A farandole of textures, colors and flavours to awaken your senses for an evening!
Day 3 - Option 1 - 10am-6pm: Marvel at 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 3 - Option 2 - 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.: Travel back in time at 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 3 - Option 2 - 12pm-2pm: Enjoy a healthy and tasty lunch
How about a crêpe or galette for breakfast? The Crêperie du Château will win you over with its reassuringly tasty menu. We really like this friendly, family-run establishment.
A healthy lunch awaits you at Tarterie Miam Miam, J'ai Une Faim de Loup. Homemade vegetable and fruit pies, gourmet cakes and fresh juices on the menu.
Day 3 - Option 2 - 2pm-4pm: Visit the Pincé Museum
We were seduced by this former mansion, an emblematic building of the Anjou Renaissance, converted into a museum in the 19th century. You'll discover art objects from various ancient civilizations, from the Mediterranean to Asia and South America. The museum also hosts an annual temporary exhibition of contemporary art in partnership with the Angers artothèque.
Day 3 - Option 2 - 16h-17h: Taking a gourmet break
4pm, snack time! Take a gourmet break and indulge in a little sweetness. Among our best addresses, you'll find something for everyone at the Once Upon A Time Tea Room. Choose from delicious pastries and cakes. Tarts, cookies, pastries and hot drinks on the menu.
Day 3 - 7:30-9:30 p.m.: Dinner in an old mill
Located a 15-minute drive from Angers and 8 minutes from Terra Botanica, 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. One of our best places to eat in Angers!
Why not extend the experience and stay overnight? Book your room now!
Alternative 1: With more history, museums and art
Other fascinating museums
In Angers, you'll find unique museums devoted to the city's history, art and age-old regional know-how. From art and history to traditional skills and techniques, there's something for everyone. In addition to the museums we recommended earlier in the article, we also recommend the following:
- The Slate Museum
- Museum of Natural Sciences
- The Good Shepherd Museum
See our article on the best museums in Angers for more ideas.
Art in the streets of Angers
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! The town even offers a variety of art trails. Find out more here.
Alternative 2: With 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. Guided vehicle tours are also available. 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!
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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Alternative 3: With activities for children
Places to visit with the family
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 Les Petits Prés: gourmet menu for children and parents.
- 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.
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What you need to know for your stay 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!
Adapt your itinerary when it rains
As the weather can be capricious, it may rain during your stay. But don't worry, there's plenty to do out of the rain:
- Visit fascinating museums
- Visit the town's castle and other castles near Angers
- See a show, ballet or opera at the Grand-Théâtre
- Enjoy your hotel and its services. Accommodation ideas here!
PLAN YOUR TRIP IN
Loire Valley
The castles of the Loire Valley
Other places to explore
Practice
HE MADE THE TRIP Manu
