Valence offers several different highlights to consider when planning your trip: bastide and architectural heritage, markets, and outdoor activities. The historic washhouses and central market hall offer a different experience from the routes along the Canal des Deux Mers or the Jardin de Pontus. There is also the harbour and the year-round programme at the Cinéma-Théâtre Apollo. When looking for hotels, you can first decide whether you want to plan your stay mainly around culture, a morning at the market, or outdoor activities.
Bastide, Washhouses and Public Art
Valence d’Agen is an English bastide dating from the 13th century. The Del Théron washhouse is the oldest washhouse in Valence d’Agen; the washhouses can be visited at any time independently and without a guide. A traditional dovecote is considered a symbol of the rural heritage of south-west France. There is also a contemporary art trail featuring works by artists in public spaces. The installations on the art trail may change over time.
Markets and Regional Produce
The central market hall is lined with arcades. In 2026, the Tuesday morning market takes place, a lively culinary tradition that has continued since the bastide was founded in 1283. Every Saturday morning in 2026, a farmers’ market with local producers takes place beneath the historic market hall on Place Nationale. The markets offer seasonal fruit and vegetables from the Garonne Valley; the selection varies with the season. If a market visit is part of your plans, check which morning fits your travel dates.
Routes, Cycling and Water
Along the Canal des Deux Mers, the towpath has been developed as a Voie Verte for walking and cycling. The Circuit Val de Garonne is an 18-kilometre flat cycling route. It starts at the bicycle station at the former slaughterhouse in Valence d’Agen. This gives you the choice between a path designed for walking and cycling and a cycling route with a stated length and flat profile. Route details may change; check the latest route information before setting off.
The harbour of Valence d’Agen welcomes boats and barges, as well as recreational boaters passing through, all year round. Valence d’Agen also has two entertaining Baludik walks. These walks use a free app that requires geolocation to be enabled. As app-based activities may change, check the latest information about the walks before making plans.
Green Space and Cultural Programme
The Jardin de Pontus is a green space in the heart of Valence d’Agen, intended for walks and relaxation. Its features include an eco-pasture with sheep; the presence of the animals may be managed seasonally. The Cinéma-Théâtre Apollo offers a different cultural experience, with a rich and varied programme throughout the year. The specific performances on offer may change.
Discover more destinations: Touffailles, Lavaurette, Bressols, Maubec, Cayriech, Saint-Marcel-Campes, Lamothe-Capdeville, Orgueil
For the broader travel overview: Tarn-Et-Garonne.
