Looking for a unique and culturally rich destination for your next getaway? France ? Why not head for Angoulême, capital of the ninth art and a treasure trove of history? In New Aquitaine, in the heart of the department of CharenteAngoulême reveals spectacular views over the Charente valley and takes you on an unparalleled cultural and artistic adventure.
This guide will reveal everything you need to know about Angoulême: from its captivating historical accounts, renowned festivals and diverse activities, to the essential places not to be missed. Whether your passion lies in comics, architecture, gastronomy or nature, Angoulême is a city that will surprise and charm every visitor.
Ready to explore? Follow the guide!
Discover Angoulême: a journey through time and art
Angoulême boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage, stretching from antiquity to the modern era. This emblematic city, famous for its close association with comics, is also a living testimony to periods of glory and hardship. Let's explore its fascinating history, exceptional art and iconic sites together.
Angoulême's rich history
Founded by the Gauls as an oppidum overlooking the Charente, Angoulême was conquered by the Romans, then by the Franks, becoming the capital of a county, and later a duchy in the 16th century. The birthplace of the House of Valois-Angoulême, which saw the emergence of François I, King of France, the town has been the scene of many conflicts, including the Hundred Years' War and the Wars of Religion.
In the 19th century, industrialization, particularly in the paper industry, and the development of the railroads marked Angoulême's expansion. Affected by the Second World War, the town bounced back and entered the 21st century as the international capital of comics and a renowned cultural center.
Angoulême city
Angoulême, capital of comics
Since 1974, Angoulême International Comics Festival attracts thousands of aficionados, authors and publishers, and has become the first of its kind in Europe and the third worldwide. Each year it offers prestigious prizes, such as the Grand Prix and the Fauve d'Or, as well as exhibitions, shows and other events dedicated to the ninth art.
The city is also home to Cité internationale de la bande dessinée et de l'image, a complex unique in Europe comprising a museum, library, school, artists' residence and documentation center, celebrating the diversity and history of the comic strip. Angoulême also pays tribute to this artistic genre with murals depicting icons such as Corto Maltese and Asterix, consolidating its status as a world reference, recognized by UNESCO as a creative city.
Angouleme's must-see monuments
Angoulême's architectural heritage is a living reflection of its history. Saint-Pierre Cathedral, a 12th-century Romanesque masterpiece, the Château des Ducs d'Angoulême, which houses the prefecture and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, the covered market inspired by the Pavillon Baltard, and the statue of Marguerite d'Angoulême are all emblematic sites of the city. Each offers a unique insight into Angoulême's rich past and cultural vitality.
Festivals and cultural events not to be missed
Angouleme is a dynamic and vibrant city, the scene of many festivals and cultural events. throughout the year. If you're passionate about comics, music, film, theater or literature, you're sure to find an event that will captivate your interest and immerse you in the diversity of artistic creation.
Explore our selection of must-see festivals and cultural events in Angoulême.
The International Comics Festival
An essential meeting place for comics fans and industry professionals, thehe Angoulême International Comics Festival has been held every January since 1974. It's the second-largest festival of its kind in Europe, and the third-largest worldwide.
With almost 200,000 visitors and more than 2,500 participating authors, the festival offers exhibitions, book signings, shows, concerts and many other events dedicated to comics. Prestigious prizes are also awarded, including the Fauve d'Or, the Grand Prix and the Prix du Public.making this festival a key moment for the discovery of new releases, current trends, emerging talents and authors from all over the world in the field of comics.
Musiques Métisses: an annual world music event
If you're a lover of world music, lively rhythms and festive atmospheres, the Musiques Métisses festival is for you. Held every May since 1976, this festival offers a rich and varied program, highlighting African, Caribbean, Latin American, Oriental and European music.
Musiques Métisses Festival welcomes renowned artists as well as new discoveries, taking audiences on a cultural journey across the continents. In addition to concerts, the festival is also a space for encounters and exchanges, offering conferences, workshops, screenings, exhibitions and activities for all ages.
Other festivals and events of interest
Angoulême is packed with other interesting festivals and cultural events reflecting its vitality and dynamism. These include
Angoulême Francophone Film Festival, held in August every year since 2008, showcasing a selection of French-language films in preview or competition.
The Piano en Valois Festivalorganized every October since 1989, offering concerts of piano, chamber music, jazz and contemporary music in various emblematic or unusual venues in the region.
Circus FestivalEvery November since 2003, we've been bringing together contemporary circus companies for original shows combining acrobatics, dance, theater, music and humor.
Youth Book FairThis event has been held in December since 1983, bringing together authors, illustrators, publishers and booksellers to promote the pleasure of reading and the imagination among children and adults.
Tourist and leisure activities in Angouleme
Angouleme shines not only for its cultural richness, but also for the many activities it offers for relaxation and discovery. Whether your heart is set on adventure, nature or the quest for new experiences, Angouleme has something for everyone. Let's discover together a selection of the best tourist and leisure activities available in this dynamic city.
Museums and art galleries
Proud of its artistic heritage, Angoulême is packed with museums and art galleries offering a journey through time and cultures. Must-sees include :
Angouleme MuseumExplore a wide range of collections, from archaeology to African, Oceanic and Western art, with works by Renoir, Picasso and others, not forgetting the famous Agris helmet.
The Paper MuseumDiscover the history and techniques of papermaking, accompanied by exhibitions on related trades.
The Comic Strip MuseumDive into the 9th art with a collection unique in Europe, from its origins to the present day, and also explore the rich library and other areas dedicated to comics.
Art galleriesVisit a variety of galleries showcasing local and national talent in fields as varied as painting, sculpture and street art. Among them, Galerie Art Image and Galerie L'App'Art stand out.
Green spaces and leisure areas
The city is an oasis of greenery, offering a variety of places to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature:
Le Jardin VertA 4-hectare park in the heart of the town, offering children's play areas, fountains and a breathtaking view of the Charente river.
Frégeneuil ParkDiscover this 25-hectare landscaped park, its lake, arboretum and more, for a complete escape.
Bourgines Park and Houmeau ParkThe parks offer a green setting for a multitude of outdoor leisure activities.
Activities for families and adventure seekers
For those in search of adventure or wanting to share unforgettable moments with the family, Angoulême offers :
Le Toboggan et CieA covered play area for young adventurers, with a variety of attractions to keep them entertained.
Le Randonneurs de la CharenteFor nature-lovers, this hiking club offers the chance to discover local heritage and landscapes.
Terra AventuraA geolocation-based treasure hunt to explore Angoulême in a unique and fun way.
Jet Ski AngoulemeDiscover the pleasures of the water with jet skis, towed buoys and more, for an exciting experience on the Charente.
CGR Angoulême: Your cinema in the heart of the city
Visit CGR Angoulême is one of the city's leading cinema complexes, offering a varied program and modern infrastructure for a quality cinematic experience. Located close to the city center, it attracts both blockbuster and arthouse film fans.
Cgr Angoulême
1. Presentation of CGR Angoulême
Visit CGR (Circuit Georges Raymond) is a well-established cinema chain in France. In Angoulême, the complex offers several rooms equipped with the latest technologyfor optimum sound and image quality.
👉 Address 20 Rue des Postes, 16000 Angoulême, France 👉 Number of rooms : 9 👉 Total capacity Several hundred places 👉 Available technologies IMAX, Dolby Atmos, 4DX depending on the film
Thanks to its varied programming, the CGR Angoulême hosts screenings of recent films, previews, and sometimes even special events such as cinema marathons or screenings in the original version with subtitles (VOST).
2. Programming and pricing
The cinema offers a selection of films for all tastesranging from major Hollywood productions to independent and animated films. Popular genres include : ✔ Action & Science fiction Marvel, DC Comics, Star Wars ✔ Comedies & Dramas French and international films ✔ Animated films : Perfect for family outings ✔ Documentaries & Films d'auteur Special screenings
CGR subscription card: Discounts for regular moviegoers
The cinema also offers special packages such as theme eveningswhere several films from the same universe are shown in succession.
3. Experience and services
Visit CGR Angoulême makes it a point of honor to offer immersive experience thanks to : 🎬 High-definition screens and state-of-the-art acoustics 🍿 Confectionery area with popcorn, sweets and drinks 💺 Comfortable seating and PMR (Personnes à Mobilité Réduite) access
In addition, the cinema offers a online reservationwhich allows you to buy tickets in advance and avoid queues.
4. Access and contact
📍 How do I get there?
🚗 By car Parking nearby
🚆 By train Just a few minutes from Angoulême station
🚌 By bus Lines serving the city center
☎ Contact Booking and information on the official CGR website
Whether you're planning an outing with family, friends or on your own, the CGR Angoulême is the ideal place to enjoy the 7ᵉ art in optimal conditions!
Restaurant in Angoulême: The Best Places to Eat
Angoulême, capital of the comic strip and a city with a rich heritage a variety of restaurantsranging from traditional bistros at gourmet dining. Whether you're a fan of French cuisineof local specialities or exotic flavors, you're bound to find an address that appeals to you.
1. Traditional and gourmet cuisine 🍷🍽️
If you're looking for an authentic culinary experience, several establishments stand out for their refined cuisine and the use of local products.
🧑🍳 La Ruelle
Speciality Gastronomic cuisine
Atmosphere Elegant and cosy
Why go there? : This restaurant is a reference in Angoulême, offering a cuisine creative and refined with a fine selection of French wines.
🍽️ Le Saint-André
Speciality Local cuisine
Atmosphere Convivial and authentic
Why go there? : Located in the historic district, this restaurant showcases Charentais dishes as the charentais cricket and the cognac digestive.
2. Bistronomic and modern restaurants 🌿🍖
For a delightful cuisine in a more relaxed setting, several modern bistros and brasseries are waiting to be discovered.
🍷 L'Atelier des Quais
Speciality Bistronomic cuisine using seasonal produce
Atmosphere Modern and welcoming, with a terrace on the banks of the Charente river
Why go there? An excellent compromise between tradition and innovationideal for lunch with friends.
🍖 Chez Paul
Speciality French cuisine revisited
Atmosphere Warm welcome and modern decor
Why go there? : Good gourmet burgersand matured meats and homemade desserts.
3. Flavours of the world: Italian, Asian and other cuisines
Fancy a culinary journey? Angoulême also offers international restaurants with diverse influences.
🍕 Via Italia
Speciality Authentic Italian cuisine
Atmosphere Family friendly
Why go there? Fresh pasta, wood-fired pizzas and delicious tiramisu !
🍣 Sushi Kyo
Speciality Japanese cuisine and sushi
Atmosphere Zen and modern
Why go there? A wide choice of sushi, sashimi and hot dishes to eat in or take away.
4. Where to eat on the go?
For a quick but tasty meal, there are a few places you can't miss: ✔ Bagelstein Fresh bagels and homemade desserts ✔ Le Buveur d'Encre A cosy literary café with light fare ✔ Ô Bouchon Sandwiches and tapas made with local products
Whether you're looking for a a gourmet restaurant, a convivial brasserie or an exotic address, Angoulême offers a wide variety of culinary delights. Don't forget to book in advance, especially for the Comics FestivalIt's that time of year when the restaurants are packed! 🍽️✨
Weather in Angoulême: Climate, Forecasts and Best Times to Visit
Angoulêmelocated in Nouvelle-Aquitainebenefits from a temperate oceanic climateinfluenced by its proximity to the Atlantic. This means that the seasons are well defined, with mild winters and moderately hot summers.
1. Angoulême's general climate
The city is experiencing regular rainfall throughout the yearAlthough spring and autumn are the wettest seasons. There's plenty of sunshine in summer, making it a pleasant time to discover the city and its famous International Comics Festival.
Winter (December - February) Temperatures between 3°C and 10°C, with some night frosts possible.
Spring (March - May) Mild, with temperatures between 8°C and 20°C, but frequent showers.
Summer (June - August) Weather: Pleasant, with average temperatures between 16°C and 28°C. A few heat waves can push the thermometer above 30°C.
Autumn (September - November) Temperatures between 10°C and 20°C, with a return of precipitation.
2. Short-term weather forecast
Visit weather forecasts in Angoulême are generally reliable over 3 to 5 days. For real-time updates, we recommend consulting specialized sites such as Météo France or The Weather Channel.
Key elements of the forecast : ✅ Minimum and maximum temperatures ✅ Precipitation risk and intensity ✅ Wind speed and direction ✅ Humidity and atmospheric pressure
3. When to visit Angoulême, depending on the weather?
If you'd like to enjoy a nice weatherThe best times to visit Angoulême are :
May to June pleasant temperatures and sunny days.
September to October mild weather and fewer tourists.
Summer is also a good time, but it can be hot, especially in July and August.
4. The impact of weather on local activities
On sunny days 🌞: Walks along the Charente, visits to the historic center and festivals.
In wet weather ☔: Discover the Comic Strip Museum or a literary café.
Visit weather in Angoulême plays a key role in organizing events and outings. Always check the forecast before planning your visit!
Angouleme - Conclusion
Angoulême, a rich and diverse city, promises an unforgettable experience for all its visitors. Whether you're a culture buff, a nature lover or a leisure enthusiast, there's something for everyone here. Renowned for its exceptional contribution to the world of comics, the city boasts a renowned international festival, a dedicated museum, fascinating painted walls and a creative city bursting with innovation.
And that's not all: Angoulême is packed with captivating stories, reflected in its impressive architectural heritage, including its majestic cathedral, iconic château, picturesque covered market and Marguerite d'Angoulême memorial statue. The city also comes alive with a variety of festivals and cultural events, such as the Francophone film festival, Musiques Métisses, the circus festival and the children's book fair, promising entertainment and discovery around every corner.
Angoulême is an invitation to fun and relaxation, thanks to its soothing green spaces, water activities for the adventurous, playful treasure hunts and leisure parks for the whole family. A surprising and enchanting city, the city awaits you to discover its cultural richness, diversity and vibrant energy. Give in to temptation and plan your trip to Angoulême today, a veritable showcase of culture, art and history.
FAQ
What's Angoulême known for?
Angouleme shines on the international scene as the Comic Strip Capital. This reputation is underpinned by its emblematic annual festival, a museum entirely dedicated to the ninth art, and several murals throughout the town celebrating iconic comic strip figures. However, the town's rich historical past is also a source of charm, highlighted by its remarkable medieval architecture, including its Romanesque cathedral and ancient ramparts.
Where to walk in Angouleme?
Boasting a rich cultural and historical heritage, the city invites you to discover its many walks. For a memorable experience, consider these two options: - The ramparts and murals trail, offering a journey through the history and art of Angoulême, with the added bonus of stunning views over the Charente and its surroundings. - A visit to the Musée de la Bande Dessinée, housed in a contemporary building on the banks of the river, where you can admire a rich collection of permanent and temporary works dedicated to the ninth art.
Why is Angoulême called Angoulême?
The name "Angoulême" derives from the ancient province of Angoumois, of which it was the capital. "Angoumois" comes from the Santons, a Gallic people, who called themselves "Angoumois" or "Engolismes". Curiously, New York Bay was named "New Angouleme" by explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano in 1524, in honor of François I, Count of Angouleme and monarch of France.
What do we call the inhabitants of Angouleme?
Angoulême residents are named Angoumoisins for men and Angoumoisines for women. These names derive from Angoumois, the ancient province of which Angoulême was the political and cultural heart.
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