How to get to Valence

Located in the picturesque Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, the historic city of Valence serves as a symbolic gateway to the south of France and attracts travellers with its rich history and gastronomy. If you are looking for information on how to get to Valence, a well-developed transport network is at your service: it is easy to reach by high-speed train, intercity bus, or car. When planning your trip to Valence, choose the most suitable route so that your acquaintance with this cosy corner of Europe begins as comfortably as possible.

Since the city's own airport does not serve regular international destinations, it is most convenient to use the major aviation hubs of neighbouring cities to visit Valence. This will be hassle-free thanks to the region's well-thought-out transport system, which allows you to quickly reach your destination immediately after arrival.

The main aerial gateway for tourists is Lyon-Saint Exupéry International Airport (LYS). This is the optimal choice in terms of logistics: the terminal is connected to a railway station from where high-speed TGV trains depart. The journey to the Valence TGV station takes only about 30 minutes, making the transfer as comfortable and fast as possible.

Alternatively, you can consider Grenoble-Alpes-Isère Airport (GNB), located approximately 80 kilometres from the city. However, it is worth noting that it receives fewer flights than the Lyon hub and is often oriented towards seasonal tourist traffic.

Travelling by train is one of the most convenient ways to reach the region. Thanks to its strategic location in the Rhône Valley, Valence is a major railway junction with excellent transport accessibility.

When planning your trip, it is important to consider that the city is served by two stations. The Valence-Ville station is located directly in the city centre, allowing tourists to immediately find themselves in the heart of the action. Regional express trains and some long-distance trains arrive here.

The second station — Valence TGV — is located approximately 10 kilometres from the historic centre. It is a major hub for high-speed trains connecting the region with Paris, Marseille, and other corners of France. You can get from the TGV station to the city centre quickly and comfortably via regular regional trains (TER) or shuttle buses.

Bus services connect Valence with many parts of the region, offering travellers a picturesque and budget-friendly alternative to trains. A trip from alpine Grenoble will take about one and a half hours, covering a distance of 100 kilometres, while the 120-kilometre route from Saint-Étienne will require approximately two hours of travel time.

Lovers of inspiring scenery should consider the route from Le Puy-en-Velay: the road, stretching 130 kilometres, takes about two and a half hours and passes through beautiful natural landscapes. Most intercity buses arrive at the main bus station near the city centre, allowing tourists to immediately immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the capital of the Drôme department.

Travelling by car will allow you to enjoy the scenic landscapes of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and plan your stops independently. The drive from Grenoble will take just over an hour: you will have to cover about 95 kilometres, mainly along the A49 motorway with views of the foothills. The route from Saint-Étienne takes approximately one and a half hours (about 110 km), and the trip from Le Puy-en-Velay turns into a beautiful two-hour adventure spanning 130 kilometres.

For those who prefer not to drive, booking an intercity taxi or a private transfer is available, ensuring maximum "door-to-door" comfort. The cost of such a trip from neighbouring major cities usually ranges from 150 to 220 Euros, depending on the class of vehicle and the time of day. Thanks to excellent roads, a car remains an ideal choice for independent travellers wishing to explore the Rhône Valley and France at their own pace.

To ensure your trip to Valence goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant impressions, it is worth familiarising yourself with local features in advance. This sunny city, often called the "Gateway to Provence", is hospitable but has its nuances, knowledge of which will significantly make life easier for a tourist.

1. Clothing and Climate. The weather here is often influenced by the Mistral wind, which can be cold and gusty even on sunny days. In summer, the city can be hot, so take light clothing made of natural fabrics and sun protection, but be sure to bring a windbreaker or a warm cardigan for the evenings. For walking on the cobblestones of the historic centre, choose comfortable flat shoes.
2. Transport. The historic city centre is compact and is best explored on foot. For trips to outlying areas or suburbs, use the Citéa bus network. The city also has a developed bicycle rental system, Libélo — this is a great way to view the Rhône embankments and parks.
3. Finances. The currency is the Euro (EUR). Visa and Mastercard bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, from restaurants to supermarkets. However, at markets, in small bakeries, or when buying a ticket from a bus driver, you may need cash, so always carry a small amount in small notes and coins.
4. Health and Safety. Valence is a calm city, but as everywhere, it is worth keeping an eye on personal belongings at stations and in crowded places. Pharmacies are easy to recognise by the flashing green cross; pharmacists in France are qualified and can provide initial consultation for minor ailments.
5. Communication. Although staff in hotels and tourist offices usually speak English, this is not guaranteed in small shops and cafes. Learn a few basic phrases in French ("Bonjour", "Merci", "S'il vous plaît") — locals greatly appreciate such efforts and will treat you much more kindly.
6. Local Etiquette. Politeness plays a key role here. Be sure to greet ("Bonjour") the salesperson when entering a shop and say goodbye ("Au revoir") when leaving. Failure to observe this rule may be perceived as rudeness. In restaurants, it is customary to wait for the waiter to show you to a table, rather than seating yourself.
7. What to Avoid. Do not try to have lunch at 15:00 or dinner at 18:00. French restaurants operate strictly by the clock: lunch is usually from 12:00 to 14:00, and dinner starts after 19:00. In between, kitchens are often closed, and you may only be able to rely on sandwiches or pastries in cafes.
8. Extra Tip. Do not miss the opportunity to walk along the canals of Valence (Les Canaux). This is a unique network of waterways stretching about 17 km, passing through gardens and parks. It is an ideal place for a quiet, relaxing walk away from the city noise, which not all tourists know about.

Following these simple recommendations will help you feel confident and comfortable while enjoying the atmosphere of southern France. Valence is a city that reveals itself to those who respect its rhythm and traditions, offering unforgettable culinary and cultural discoveries in return.