The 10 essentials not to be missed during your visit to Agen!

Agen, located in the heart of Lot-et-Garonne, is an ideal destination for a relaxing holiday full of discoveries. Whether you are planning a short stay or a long weekend, here are the 10 essential activities to do during your visit to Agen, combining tourism and leisure. Sport, relaxation, gastronomy and culture, a perfect mix for the whole family.

Opening credit: AdobeStock /JackF

1 - Walk in the old town of Agen

With these old and pink facades, the center of Agen is a jewel steeped in history in the heart of the south-west. As you stroll through its cobbled streets, you will admire architectural treasures, including the majestic Saint-Caprais Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that proudly dominates the landscape. Explore the charming squares and shady plots lined with half-timbered houses. Enjoy the quaint shops, bustling cafes and restaurants, where you can sample local delicacies. Soak up the unique atmosphere of this old town and let yourself be seduced by its timeless charm.

2 - Garonne Canal and the Canal Bridge

The Pont Canal d'Agen is a 19th century architectural masterpiece that stretches majestically over the Garonne River. This remarkable bridge is one of a kind, as it allows boats to cross the Garonne River (perpendicularly) using the Canal de Garonne, located above the water. Imagine the boldness of the designers who crafted this technical feat, offering an ingenious solution to overcome the natural challenges of the local topography. It is an ideal place for an original stroll, on foot or by bike.

3 - Stroll to the Natural Reserve of Frayère d'Alose

The La Frayère d'Alose Nature Reserve is a protected area that lies in the main bed of the Garonne, for the protection of a single species (although others live there and benefit from it), the Big Alose. About 48 ha spread over Agen and the neighboring town of Passage d'Agen. You can take the opportunity to take a nice instructive walk, especially in May, June, July when the site is particularly pleasant and the fauna observable (hedgehogs, frogs, agrions, kingfisher, heron, big shad, trout, etc.)

4 - Agen Museum of Fine Arts

The architecture of the Agen Fine Arts Museum itself is a work of art! Installed in 4 mansions of the 16th century, in the city center, it was founded in 1876, it is labeled "Musée de France". Renovated in the early 20th century, it houses a large number of collections, organized into permanent and temporary exhibitions.

5 - traditional markets in Agen

Soak up the lively and authentic atmosphere of Agen by visiting its traditional and weekly markets. You will find local products such as the famous Agen prune, hazelnuts, tomatoes, regional cheeses, delicious wines and much more. It is the ideal place to taste the flavors of the region.

• The Daily Market: Place Durand, every day except Monday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• The Organic Farmer's Market is located on Boulevard de la République. Saturday morning from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• The Jasmin market, located between the Esplanade du Gravier and the car parks between Cours Gambetta / De Gaulle, at the bottom of the pedestrian walkway. Saturday morning from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Le Pin food and non-food market: Every Wednesday morning from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. Every Sunday morning from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Also discover the Covered Market with its twenty traders. Every day except Monday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Sunday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

6 - Agen Walygator Park

For a day of family fun, head to Walygator Park (formerly Walibi Park). This amusement park offers a plethora of activities for all ages, from thrilling rides to dazzling shows. Bring your swimsuit because nearby is a water park!

7 - St. Caprais Cathedral

Explore the impressive Saint-Caprais Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece from the 12th century. Admire its magnificent stained glass windows and learn about the fascinating history of this iconic place.

8 - Boat trip from Agen

Embark on a relaxing cruise on the Canal de Garonne and let yourself be carried away by the waves while admiring the picturesque landscapes that surround you. This experience will allow you to discover Agen from a different angle. You will find rental companies on the Quai de Dunkerque, also departing for the Baïse river.

9 - Go shopping in Agen

Go for a walk to shop on the “Pedestrian Boul”, THE place to go shopping in Agen. A pedestrian street dating from the 19th century, is a shopping street, the largest in the city. Pleasant for strolling, lined with trees, stone facades...

10 - Walk in Passeligne Natural Park

It's in the Agenaise conurbation, it's its green lung! 14km of paths, regular sporting events and play areas for children. There are sports fields, a refreshment bar, orienteering courses and a pretty lake for fishing (with map).

With this list of 10 must-do things to do in Agen and its surroundings, you are ready to make the most of your stay, exploring the sights, discovering the local culture and soaking up the unique atmosphere of this town in the Lot- et-Garonne. Have a good trip !

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