Angers

When planning a journey to the west of France, many tourists wonder how to get to Angers — the historical capital of Anjou and the gateway to the Loire Valley. This welcoming city, combining medieval heritage with modern dynamism, boasts excellent transport accessibility, making it easy to arrive here from anywhere in Europe. Travelers have access to various route options: from quick flights to neighboring cities to scenic trips by train or car.

Although there is no civil airport in Angers itself, getting here by air is quite simple thanks to the proximity of major regional aviation hubs. Most often, travelers choose to fly into Nantes (NTE), located just 81 km away, which receives numerous international flights and is considered the main aerial gateway to the region.

Alternative options include airports in the cities of Le Mans (82 km) and Tours (94 km). All these airports are well-connected to Angers by a transport network, allowing tourists to quickly and comfortably cover the remaining distance to their final destination.

Rail travel is one of the most convenient and popular ways to reach the city, as trains arrive directly at the Angers-Saint-Laud station, located near the center. Thanks to high-speed TGV lines, the journey is quick and offers a high level of comfort, allowing you to enjoy views of the French countryside from the window.

Excellent railway connections are established with neighboring cities: the trip from Nantes takes minimal time, and regular services from Le Mans and Tours make Angers easily accessible for those traveling through the Loire Valley region.

For budget-conscious travelers, bus services connecting Angers with key cities in the region are an excellent option. The shortest and most popular route runs from Nantes: buses cover the distance of about 91 km in an average of 1 hour 6 minutes.

There are also regular and comfortable services from Le Mans (travel time about 1 hour 12 minutes) and Tours (approximately 1 hour 12 minutes). Modern coaches ensure comfort on the road, making the journey tireless even when moving between cities over distances exceeding 100 km.

Traveling by car offers you the freedom of movement and the opportunity to independently plan stops at picturesque locations on the way to Angers. The drive from Nantes will take about 1 hour (90 km), while the journey from Le Mans takes slightly longer — approximately 1 hour 6 minutes (97 km).

If you are heading from the direction of Tours, expect to spend about 1 hour 25 minutes behind the wheel, covering a distance of 133 km. For those who prefer not to rent a car, the option of booking an intercity taxi service is always available, ensuring maximum comfort and delivery directly to your hotel door.

To make your stay in Angers as comfortable and memorable as possible, we have prepared several practical recommendations that will help you avoid minor inconveniences and enjoy the city's atmosphere.

1. Clothing and Weather. The climate here is mild but changeable. Even in summer, it is recommended to carry a light jacket or windbreaker in case of rain and wind, and for long walks on the cobblestones of the old town, choose comfortable flat shoes.
2. Transport. The historic city center is compact and ideal for walking. For trips to more distant locations, use the modern tram network — it is fast, eco-friendly, and allows you to see the city from a new perspective.
3. Finances. The currency is the Euro (EUR). Visa and MasterCard are accepted almost everywhere, from restaurants to museums, but it is better to carry some cash for purchasing souvenirs in small shops or markets.
4. Health. Pharmacies in France are marked with a flashing green cross and are frequently found. Tap water is safe for drinking, though many tourists prefer bottled water.
5. Language and Communication. The main language is French. English is understood in hotels and tourist spots, but by learning a couple of phrases in French ("Bonjour" — hello, "Merci" — thank you), you will earn special appreciation from the locals.
6. Etiquette. Upon entering a shop or café, it is customary to greet the staff. Politeness and restraint are highly valued; loud conversations in public places are considered poor manners.
7. Safety. Angers is a peaceful city, but as everywhere, one should watch personal belongings in crowded places and at the station. Avoid leaving valuable items visible in the car.
8. Cultural Tip. Be sure to check museum opening hours in advance, especially for the Château d'Angers, as the schedule may change during lunch hours or on public holidays.

By following these simple tips, you can feel confident and focus on exploring the rich history and culture of this beautiful French city.