Feeling like a breath of fresh air, a shot of culture, and a dash of urban charm? This summer, head to Valenciennes, a gem in the North! Tucked away in the heart of Hauts-de-France, this warm and unexpected city invites you for a sweet escape, all just 2 hours from Paris. Whether you’re a lover of art, a nature enthusiast, or simply a curious explorer seeking something new, Valenciennes has that little something special that turns an ordinary trip into a genuine enchanted getaway. Follow our 5-step guide!
1. Lush natural spaces
In Valenciennes, nature is everywhere, through green corridors, countryside parks, and wild gardens, little treasures of the industrial heritage. On foot or by bike, you can wander along shaded paths, stroll between flower beds and hidden vegetable gardens, and breathe in deeply. Here, greenery is an invitation to slow down and enjoy.
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© Thomas Douvry, City of Valenciennes.
2. A Big Breath of Art
In Valenciennes, art greets you at every corner. A true open-air museum, the city is bursting with sculpted works, unusual facades, and artistic surprises. Among the highlights, you can find the Parc des Prix de Rome with its outdoor sculptures, the majestic Phénix with its remarkable architecture, and the winter Watteau boulevard, an urban gallery lined with sculptures, named after the 18th-century painter Antoine Watteau, known for his Fêtes galantes. The Fine Arts Museum and the Parc de la Rhônelle, featuring a clever blend of art and nature, complete the picture. And to make sure you don’t miss anything, hop on a tuk-tuk for a fun and informative one-hour guided tour available all summer long, from July 5 to August 31!
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© Thomas Douvry, Ville de Valenciennes.
3. The Charm of Northern Architecture
Head over to Vieux-Valenciennes, where cobbled streets, colorful facades, and cozy little shops invite you to take a leisurely stroll. The Rue de Famars, the oldest street in the city, now buzzes with the creativity of local artisans. You can still spot a few typical Scaldian houses, charming reminders of a bygone era. With a more bohemian vibe, the Saint-Nicolas district enchants visitors with its lively terraces, art schools, and festive atmosphere. For a cultural bonus, make sure to stop by the Jesuit Library, an ancient building that houses the oldest text in Rouchi (Picard patois). In short, there’s a treasure trove of wonders to explore, especially during the guided walks "Surprising Valenciennes,” which take you around the city’s must-sees in just one hour, led by a guide from the Tourist Office.
4. Testimony of a Mining Land
Valenciennes also has a story deeply rooted in the land. It’s about mines, spoil heaps, and ponds. The Chabaud-Latour site, located on the outskirts of the city, is a powerful symbol of this history. Across 350 hectares, you can wander between marshes and black dikes, discovering an amazing biodiversity of 490 species of fauna and flora, nestled where machines once operated. You can still spot the Ledoux headframe (an elevator that provided access to the mine), a silent guardian of a bygone industrial past, set on a vast meadow that blooms beautifully as the warm days arrive.
© OTCVM
5. A Land of Connections Between Warmth and Deliciousness
But the real treasure of Valenciennes is its people. Here, human warmth is not just a cliché: it's everywhere, in a smile, a handshake, a good meal shared. A city of craftsmanship and food lovers, Valenciennes can also be explored through your taste buds: local beers, artisanal chocolates, flavored honeys… The meetings are always simple and sincere. The spirit of the North, in all its glory.
© Claude Waeghemacker, OTCVM.
Practical Information
Where to Stay ?
For a comfortable stay, head to the Royal Hainaut, a majestic gem in Valenciennes. Built at the request of Louis XV, this former hospice has become a timeless 4-star hotel, blending noble tradition with architectural boldness. The building preserves its historic structure, enhanced by a monumental glass roof that fills the place with light. The true luxury? A total disconnection, especially at the spa, featuring a 22-meter pool nestled under spectacular blue stone vaults. It's chic, calm, and unique. For foodie pleasures, two bars invite you to unwind, including the Atrium, where you can sink into oversized sofas with a cocktail in hand and a platter of snacks within arm’s reach. And to extend your experience... ```Take a sweet journey to one of the two restaurants: La Storia for an Italian escape, or La Galerie, a temple of French gastronomy in a brasserie style.
© Nablezon - OTCVM
The date you ask?
On Monday, July 7th, Valenciennes will come alive with the rhythm of pedaling as it hosts the start of the third stage of the Tour de France! An exceptional day is on the horizon, where the city transforms into a festive and vibrant playground. The riders will set off for 172 kilometers to Dunkirk, cheered on by the crowds. It’s a true celebration of sports, full of color, smiles, and shared good vibes!
