Agen town, Lot et Garonne
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Agen - by Morgane L.N on Google
Description
Agen lies on the Garonne River, equidistant from Toulouse and Bordeaux, in the southwest of France. There was already a settlement in the Roman time (Aginnium). During the Renaissance the catholic city was opposed to Nérac (on the side of the Protestant Reform) and the economy was centred around fishing, farming and the production of pruneaux and wine. The main bridges were built in the first part of the 19th century and the following decades saw a massive modernisation of the city and its architecture. The main sights include the Agen Cathedral (one of the few large churches in France with a double nave), the Museum of Fine Arts, the Chapelle Notre-Dame du Bourg, the old centre of town with its medieval buildings (the most photographed is Rue Beauville). Finally, the Canal des Deux Mers, which joins the Mediterranean with the Atlantic, crosses the river Garonne at Agen via the town's famous canal bridge.
Access & Transport
The city is easily reached by train from either Bordeaux in 75-90mins or Toulouse. By car, it is about 90mins on the A63 to each of those two cities as well (Bordeaux is 140kms away and Toulouse 120kms) There is also a little used airport with flights to Paris Orly.
Instructions & Recommendations
The city is an excellent base to explore the region for 3-4 days or as a departure / end point to a regional itinerary that would include several villages, bastides and maybe the Walygator theme park on the outskirts of town.
Environmental & Social
The main activities in the city have a low carbon footprint. Tourism is a welcome injection of activity and revenues in the local economy
Conclusion
Agen is a worthy destination for those looking to explore the Lot-et-Garonne area. The infrastructure is good, and the town offers a mix of culture and sights. Food and wine are also a highlight of the town.
Key positive
Charming old lanes and timbered buildings
Several sights and attractions in a compact area
Quality of regional food and cuisine
Key negative
Good connectivity but not close to any must-see at the regional level
Suitability
No restrictions
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h
est. visit time:5h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo