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If you ever find yourself wandering through southeastern France,Valence is one of those places that quietly steals your heart without shouting for attention. There’s a gentle rhythm to the city,where the old stone buildings bask in golden sunlight and the scent of fresh bread drifts from corner boulangeries. Walking along the Rhône River,you’ll hear the soft murmur of water mingling with the chatter of locals enjoying their afternoon café. It’s a city that feels both alive and relaxed,like a well-loved book you want to keep returning to.
Valence’s charm lies in its blend of history and everyday life. The medieval streets invite you to get lost,while the vibrant markets burst with colors and aromas—ripe tomatoes,fragrant herbs,and the unmistakable tang of local cheeses. Stop by a small café and savor a plate of ravioles,those delicate little pasta parcels that melt in your mouth,paired with a glass of crisp Côtes du Rhône wine. The city’s culinary scene is a delicious reflection of its surroundings:fresh,simple,and deeply satisfying.
What really makes Valence special is its warmth. The people here have a genuine friendliness that makes you feel like you belong,even if you’re just passing through. Whether you’re sitting in a sunlit square watching the world go by or exploring the nearby hills dotted with vineyards,Valence invites you to slow down,breathe in the flavors and sounds,and soak up a slice of authentic French life.
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Eng word: Hello
Eng pronunciation: bohn-zhoor
Local language: Bonjour
Eng word: Goodbye
Eng pronunciation: oh ruh-vwahr
Local language: Au revoir
Eng word: Thank you
Eng pronunciation: mehr-see
Local language: Merci
Eng word: How much
Eng pronunciation: kohm-byen
Local language: Combien
Eng word: Toilet
Eng pronunciation: twa-let
Local language: Toilettes
Eng word: Help me
Eng pronunciation: eh-deh mwah
Local language: Aidez-moi
Eng word: Yes
Eng pronunciation: wee
Local language: Oui
Eng word: No
Eng pronunciation: noh
Local language: Non
Eng word: Excuse me
Eng pronunciation: ehk-skew-zay mwah
Local language: Excusez-moi
Valence, originally known as Valentia, was founded during the Roman Empire in the 1st century BC. It served as an important stop along the Via Agrippa, a major Roman road connecting Lyon to the Mediterranean.
Valence's position on the banks of the Rhône River made it a key trading hub throughout history, facilitating commerce and cultural exchange between northern and southern France.
The Cathedral of Saint-Apollinaire, built in the 11th century, is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. It has been a central landmark of Valence for nearly a millennium and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Napoleon Bonaparte spent time in Valence as a young artillery officer in the late 18th century. His stay in the city is commemorated with plaques and historical markers, making it a point of interest for history buffs.
The Maison des Têtes, or 'House of Heads,' is a remarkable Renaissance building adorned with intricate sculptures of human heads. Built in the early 16th century, it reflects the city's artistic and architectural heritage.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, Valence became an important center for the silk trade, benefiting from its proximity to Lyon, the silk capital of France. This contributed to the city's economic growth and cultural development.
The charming Peynet Bandstand, located in the Champ de Mars park, was built in 1862. It gained fame thanks to the romantic illustrations of artist Raymond Peynet, who depicted it as a symbol of love and music.
Valence is renowned for its gastronomy, with a rich culinary tradition that includes local specialties like 'caillettes' (pork and herb pâté) and fine wines from the nearby Rhône Valley vineyards.
The Valence Museum, housed in a former episcopal palace, showcases a diverse collection of art, archaeology, and natural history. It offers visitors a glimpse into the city's rich cultural and historical legacy.
TrainWhile there may not be a direct train service from the airport to the main area, nearby train stations can be accessed via taxi or shuttle. Trains are a comfortable option for longer distances but may not be the most convenient for short trips.TaxiTaxis are readily available at the airport and provide a direct route to your destination. They are a reliable option, though they may be more expensive than ride-sharing services. Payment can usually be made by cash or card.Ride ShareRide-sharing services like Uber are popular for their convenience and ease of use. You can book a ride via a mobile app, and drivers typically arrive quickly. The cost may vary based on demand and distance.Airport Shuttle BusThe airport shuttle bus offers a cost-effective way to reach the main area. It operates on a fixed schedule and can take longer than a taxi or ride-share due to multiple stops, but it is a good option for budget travelers.OtherBiking or walking could be options if you are traveling light and the distance is manageable. However, these methods are less common for airport transfers due to luggage and distance considerations.
In Valence, the most common Power Adaptor is Type C, Type E.
There are luggage storage services available in the city center
the city center
€6 per day
Opening hours: in the city center,such as NannybagLuggage lockers are available at Valence TGV stationLocation not specifiedPrice not specifiedOpening hours: at Valence TGV station,provided by SNCFLuggage lockers are not available directly at Valence-Chabeuil Airportadvance for availability and pricingPrice not specifiedOpening hours: directly at Valence-Chabeuil Airport, It's advisable to check in advance for availability and pricing
A creamy potato dish baked with milk or cream and often flavored with garlic, originating from the Dauphiné region.
A traditional dish made from minced meat, usually pork, mixed with greens and herbs, wrapped in a pastry or served as a meatball.
Delicate pasta filled with a mixture of cheese, herbs, and sometimes vegetables, typically served in broth or with a sauce.
A sweet tart made with a buttery crust filled with a mixture of praline (caramelized nuts) and cream, often bright pink in color.
A savory pie made with meat pâté encased in a flaky pastry crust, often served as a starter or appetizer.
Nougat de Montélimar - A famous sweet treat made with honey, almonds, and pistachios, originating from the nearby Montélimar region, which is closely associated with Valence.Côtes du Rhône Wine - A bottle of high-quality wine from the nearby Rhône Valley, known for its exceptional vineyards.Valrhona Chocolate - Premium chocolate from the renowned Valrhona factory in Tain-l'Hermitage, just a short distance from Valence.Hermitage Wine - A prestigious wine from the Hermitage appellation, located near Valence, perfect for wine enthusiasts.Lavender Products - Soaps, essential oils, and sachets made from the lavender grown in the nearby Drôme Provençale region.Drôme Olive Oil - Locally produced olive oil from the Drôme region, known for its rich flavor and high quality.Pottery from Cliousclat - Handcrafted ceramics and pottery from the nearby village of Cliousclat, famous for its artisanal craftsmanship.Truffles from the Drôme - A luxurious and rare delicacy, the black truffles from the Drôme region make for a unique and memorable gift.Local Artisan Cheese - Specialty cheeses such as Picodon, a goat cheese from the Drôme region, which is a must-try for cheese lovers.Regional Cookbooks - A cookbook featuring recipes and culinary traditions from the Rhône-Alpes region, allowing your loved ones to recreate the flavors of Valence at home.
Marseille 02 pulses with a vibrant energy that feels both timeless and refreshingly alive. As you wander through its streets,you’re greeted by the salty tang of the Mediterranean mingling with the rich aroma of freshly baked bread and sizzling seafood from nearby markets. The sunlight dances off the old stone buildings,casting warm glows on colorful shutters and bustling cafés where locals sip strong coffee and chat animatedly. It’s a place where history and modern life blend effortlessly,creating a rhythm that’s both laid-back and full of surprises.
You’ll hear the lively chatter in French mixed with the occasional splash of other languages,a testament to Marseille’s diverse,welcoming spirit. The sound of waves lapping against the harbor is a constant,soothing backdrop,inviting you to pause and soak in the view of fishing boats bobbing gently alongside sleek yachts. The streets are alive with the scent of herbs and spices from open-air markets,tempting you to taste the city’s famed bouillabaisse or a flaky,buttery pastry from a local boulangerie.
What makes Marseille 02 truly special is its character — a gritty charm softened by warmth and creativity. Street art colors the walls,and small galleries and music venues hum with local talent. It’s a place where you can lose yourself in winding alleys,discover unexpected corners of beauty,and feel the pulse of a city that’s proud of its roots but always looking forward. Trust me,once you’ve felt Marseille’s embrace,you’ll want to come back again and again.
Imagine stepping into a place where the sun seems to linger just a little longer,casting a golden glow over pastel-colored buildings and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. That’s Nice for you—a city that effortlessly blends the relaxed charm of a seaside town with the vibrant pulse of French culture. Walking along the Promenade des Anglais,you’ll feel the gentle sea breeze on your skin and hear the rhythmic crash of waves mingling with the laughter of locals and tourists alike. The scent of freshly baked baguettes and rich espresso drifts from cozy cafés,inviting you to pause and savor the moment.
Nice has this wonderful rhythm,a mix of old-world elegance and laid-back joie de vivre. The narrow streets of the Old Town buzz with life—vendors calling out their colorful produce,the clinking of glasses in bustling bistros,and the occasional melody from a street musician. It’s a place where you can lose yourself exploring vibrant markets,then find a quiet spot to watch the sunset paint the sky in shades of pink and orange over the harbor.
What really makes Nice stand out is its effortless blend of cultures—French sophistication meets Mediterranean warmth. Whether you’re nibbling on a socca (a chickpea pancake) or sipping rosé at a terrace café,there’s a genuine friendliness that makes you feel like you belong. It’s a city that invites you to slow down,breathe deeply,and soak in the simple pleasures of life by the sea.
Montpellier feels like a city that’s effortlessly alive—where history and youthful energy collide in the sun-drenched streets. Imagine wandering through narrow medieval alleys,their stone walls warm under the afternoon sun,while the distant chatter of café terraces blends with the soft hum of bicycles gliding by. There’s a rhythm here,a laid-back pulse that invites you to slow down and savor the moment. The scent of freshly baked baguettes mingles with the salty breeze drifting in from the nearby Mediterranean,tempting you to grab a seat at a sidewalk café and watch the world go by.
What really makes Montpellier stand out is its vibrant mix of old and new. The elegant Place de la Comédie buzzes with street performers and locals sipping espresso,while just around the corner,modern architecture and leafy parks offer a refreshing contrast. The city’s youthful spirit is palpable,thanks to its large student population,which fills the streets with creativity and a welcoming openness. You’ll find quirky boutiques,lively markets,and art galleries tucked into unexpected corners,each adding a splash of color and character.
And then there’s the food—oh,the food! From tangy goat cheese and sun-ripened tomatoes to rich seafood dishes kissed by Provençal herbs,every bite feels like a celebration of the region’s flavors. Whether you’re indulging in a glass of crisp Picpoul de Pinet or savoring a flaky croissant at dawn,Montpellier invites you to experience life with all your senses wide open. It’s a city that stays with you long after you leave,whispering stories of warmth,culture,and joie de vivre.
Barcelona feels like a vibrant mosaic where every corner pulses with life and color. The moment you step onto its sun-drenched streets,you’re wrapped in a warm Mediterranean embrace—salt in the air,the distant hum of waves mingling with lively chatter from bustling cafés. The city’s energy is contagious,a blend of old-world charm and modern creativity that invites you to slow down and savor each moment.
Wandering through the narrow alleys of the Gothic Quarter,you’ll hear the soft clinking of glasses and the melodic strum of a street guitarist,while the scent of fresh-baked bread and roasting coffee drifts from cozy bakeries. Barcelona’s architecture is like a living art gallery—Gaudí’s whimsical buildings,with their undulating lines and vibrant mosaics,feel almost dreamlike against the bright blue sky. It’s a place where history and imagination dance together.
Food here is a celebration in itself. Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy,golden croqueta or savoring the rich,smoky flavors of a traditional paella,all washed down with a glass of chilled cava. The city’s markets,like La Boqueria,burst with colors and aromas—ripe tomatoes,fresh seafood,and fragrant herbs—that make you want to taste everything.
What makes Barcelona truly special is its spirit:a city that lives passionately,where locals and visitors alike gather to share stories,laughter,and the simple joy of being in a place that feels both timeless and alive. Trust me,once you’ve experienced it,you’ll carry a piece of Barcelona’s magic with you long after you leave.
Imagine wandering through narrow,winding streets where every corner reveals a slice of history,the salty breeze from the Ligurian Sea mingling with the rich aroma of fresh basil and roasting coffee. That’s Genoa for you—a city that feels alive in the most authentic way. It’s not polished or overly touristy; instead,it’s a place where the past and present dance together,from the grandeur of its Renaissance palaces to the lively chatter spilling out of tiny trattorias. You’ll hear the clinking of glasses and the hum of locals debating football,all set against the backdrop of colorful buildings stacked like a painter’s palette along the harbor.
Genoa’s character is deeply tied to the sea. The port pulses with energy,fishing boats bobbing alongside sleek yachts,and the scent of fresh seafood wafts through the air. Don’t miss trying the local focaccia—crispy on the outside,soft and fragrant inside—or a plate of trofie al pesto,where the basil pesto tastes like sunshine captured in a sauce. The city’s museums and narrow alleys invite you to slow down and soak in stories of explorers and merchants who once set sail from here.
What makes Genoa truly special is its unpretentious charm. It’s a city that welcomes you to get lost,to listen closely,and to savor moments that feel both timeless and vibrant. Whether you’re sipping a coffee in a quiet piazza or watching the sunset paint the harbor gold,Genoa leaves you with a warm,lingering sense of having discovered a place that’s quietly unforgettable.
If you ever find yourself dreaming of a place where the Mediterranean sun kisses warm,golden stone streets and the scent of salty sea mingles with fresh herbs from nearby markets,Ajaccio is that kind of magic. Walking through its narrow alleys,you’ll hear the gentle hum of locals chatting over espresso,the clink of glasses from cozy cafés,and the distant call of seagulls above the harbor. It’s a city that feels alive but never rushed,where history and everyday life blend effortlessly.
Ajaccio’s charm is deeply tied to its roots—this is Napoleon Bonaparte’s birthplace,and you can feel the weight of history in the grand old buildings and the proud,welcoming spirit of its people. But it’s not just about the past; the city pulses with vibrant Corsican culture. You’ll catch the aroma of freshly baked pastries,the sharp tang of local cheeses,and the sweet,earthy notes of chestnut honey at the markets. Sitting by the waterfront,watching fishing boats bob gently on turquoise waters,you might even taste the freshest seafood you’ve ever had,paired with a glass of crisp Corsican wine.
What really stays with you is the atmosphere—warm,unpretentious,and full of life. Whether you’re wandering the sun-dappled squares,exploring the rugged coastline just beyond the city,or simply savoring a gelato while watching the sunset paint the sky in shades of pink and gold,Ajaccio invites you to slow down and soak it all in. It’s a place that feels like a heartfelt welcome,one you’ll want to return to again and again.
A person may spill something on you or create a scene to distract you while an accomplice steals your belongings.
Scammers may offer to 'help' tourists at ATMs, either to steal their PIN or swap their card with a fake one.
Scammers, often pretending to be from a charity or organization, ask tourists to sign a petition and then demand a donation. They may also use this as a distraction to pickpocket.
Vendors may sell counterfeit or low-quality goods as authentic souvenirs, often at inflated prices.
Some taxi drivers may overcharge tourists by taking longer routes or not using the meter. Always agree on a price beforehand or ensure the meter is running.
Thieves often target tourists in crowded areas like markets, train stations, and tourist attractions. They may work in groups to distract you while stealing your belongings.
Some restaurants may inflate bills for tourists by adding hidden charges or charging for items you didn’t order. Always check your bill carefully.
Scammers set up street games, like the shell game, to lure tourists into betting money. These games are rigged, and accomplices in the crowd pretend to win to encourage participation.
The possession, use, and sale of recreational drugs are illegal in Valence, France, as per French national law. This includes cannabis, even for personal use. Penalties for drug-related offenses can range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense. Tourists should exercise caution and avoid any involvement with illegal substances.
In Valence, France, smoking is prohibited in all enclosed public spaces, including restaurants, bars, public transport, and workplaces, as per French national law. Smoking is also banned in certain outdoor areas, such as playgrounds, school premises, and near public transportation stops. Designated smoking areas may be available in some locations. Violations can result in fines.
Vaping is subject to similar restrictions as smoking in Valence, France. It is prohibited in enclosed public spaces, workplaces, and public transport. Some outdoor areas, such as school premises and playgrounds, may also restrict vaping. Always check for signage or ask if vaping is allowed in specific locations.
15.2 °C / 59.36 °F
64400
4/5
Euro (EUR)
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