Tourism
in Angouleme

Make the most of your stay in the Brit Hotel Terminus to discover Angoulême and its tourist treasures.

The pinnacle of comic books

It is, of course, impossible to speak of Angoulême without mentioning the comic book, the true artistic symbol of the city. Since 1974, in January every year Angoulême has hosted the International Comics Festival. It is one of the largest in Europe. During a walk through the city, you can also discover the sublime painted frescoes. 24 illustrations decorate the walls of the city. Discover Cubitus, Titeuf, Gaston Lagaffe or Boule et Bille during this tourist trail.

A significant historical heritage

Angoulême has various historical and religious buildings to discover. The Saint-Pierre d’Angoulême Cathedral, for example. Built in the 4th century in Roman style, it is considered as one of the most beautiful buildings in Charente. It has been listed as a Historical Monument since 1840. Among the other monuments to discover and visit, we especially recommend the Hôtel de Ville, situated in the former Count’s château, the Château de la Rochefoucauld and its spectacular architecture, or the numerous charming Roman churches which are interspersed throughout the Pays d’Angoulême.

A great cultural richness

Culture and museums go hand in hand. Among the different museums in Angoulême, we have chosen three which we believe are must-sees: the Paper Museum, the International Cartoon Museum and the Museum of Angoulême. As its name suggests, the Paper Museum concerns itself with the production of this material. It is situated within the former Joseph Bardou Le Nil paper mill. The International Cartoon Museum houses a permanent display of comic book memorabilia, temporary exhibitions, a library, a book shop and an arthouse cinema. An ideal place to visit for families. Finally, the Museum of Angoulême houses one of the oldest and largest collections of African and Oceanic art. Paintings, sculptures and ceramics are all there to admire during your visit. Entertainment is also on offer throughout the year.

Fine food

Make the most of your stay in our hotel to discover the local produce and craftsmanship. What does one eat in Angoulême? Melon (from Charentes and therefore yellow), Cagouilles (snails), Barbezieux capons (black-feathered poultry), and also cheese (Taupinère, Chabichou...), chocolate (the ‘Marguerite d’Angoulême’), or truffles! All these delicious products are to be found in the covered market which is held every week in Angoulême. Charente is also a land of wine-making. Red, white, rosé... Try out the region’s wines (with moderation, of course), or tempt yourself with a delicious Pineau des Charentes or a cognac.

Activities

As well as tourism, Angoulême offers many sporting and recreational activities. For example, lovers of golf can go to the Hirondelle Golf Club and play on its 18-hole course, situated near to the city centre and the hotel.
Other outdoor activities are on offer: climbing, equestrian sports, canoeing... For an activity to thrill the whole family, go to the Exotic Farm and discover this animal park which houses nearly 500 animals. Take a trip back in time discovering its tool museum!

Are you looking for a more original activity? Head off on a full-scale treasure hunt offered by the Tourist Office of Angoulême.
This free and enjoyable activity will allow you to discover the city whilst having fun!

A story about Angoulême

It was in Angoulême that the first human flight took place!
In 1801, General Guillaume Resnier de Goué soared from the city’s ramparts, saddled with wings that he himself had made.
He managed to fly up to 300m high, before landing on the other side of the Charente river.
The result: a broken leg.

Photos:
© Angoulême Tourist Office