The 10 must-sees during your visit to Agen!

Agen, located in the heart of the Lot-et-Garonne region, is an ideal destination for a relaxing and enriching holiday. Whether you're planning a short break or a long weekend, here are 10 must-do activities during your visit to Agen, combining sightseeing and leisure. Sports, relaxation, gastronomy, and culture—a perfect mix for the whole family.

Our top 10 things to do in Agen

1 - Stroll through the old town of Agen

With its ancient, pink facades, the center of Agen is a jewel steeped in history in the heart of southwest France. Strolling through its cobbled streets, you'll admire architectural treasures, including the majestic Saint-Caprais Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that proudly dominates the landscape. Explore the charming squares and shaded plazas lined with half-timbered houses. Enjoy the quaint boutiques, lively cafes, and restaurants, where you can sample local delicacies. Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this old town and let yourself be captivated by its timeless charm.

2 - Garonne Canal and the Canal Bridge

The Agen Canal Bridge is a 19th century architectural masterpiece that spans majestically over the Garonne River. This remarkable bridge is unique because it allows boats to cross the Garonne River (perpendicularly) via the Garonne Canal, which runs above the water. Imagine the audacity of the designers who conceived this feat of engineering, providing an ingenious solution to overcome the natural challenges of the local topography. It's an ideal spot for a unique outing, whether on foot or by bicycle.

3 - Walk in the Shad Spawning Ground Nature Reserve

The Shad Spawning Ground Nature Reserve is a protected area located in the main channel of the Garonne River, dedicated to the protection of a single species (although others live and benefit from it): the Allis Shad. It covers approximately 48 hectares spread across Agen and the neighboring town of Le Passage d'Agen. Visitors can enjoy a pleasant and informative walk, especially in May, June, and July when the site is particularly attractive and wildlife is easily observed (hedgehogs, frogs, damselflies, kingfishers, herons, Allis Shad, trout, etc.).

4 - Museum of Fine Arts of Agen

The architecture of the Agen Museum of Fine Arts is itself a work of art! Housed in four 16^th- century townhouses in the city center, it was founded in 1876 and is designated a "Musée de France". Renovated in the early 20^th century, it houses a large number of collections, organized into permanent and temporary exhibitions.

5 - Traditional markets of Agen

Immerse yourself in the lively and authentic atmosphere of Agen by visiting its traditional weekly markets. There you'll find local produce such as the famous Agen prune, hazelnuts, tomatoes, regional cheeses, delicious wines, and much more. It's the perfect place to sample the flavors of the region.

• The daily market : Place Durand, every day except Monday from 7am to 1pm.
• The organic farmers' market is located on Boulevard de la République. Saturday mornings from 7:30 am to 12:30 pm.
• The Jasmin market is located between the Esplanade du Gravier and the parking lots between Cours Gambetta and Cours De Gaulle, at the bottom of the pedestrian bridge. It is open Saturday mornings from 7:30 am to 12:30 pm.
• The Pin food and non-food market : Every Wednesday morning from 7am to 12pm. Every Sunday morning from 7:30am to 12:30pm.
• Also discover the covered market with its twenty or so vendors. Every day except Monday from 7am to 1pm and from 4pm to 7:30pm. Sunday from 7am to 1pm.

6 - Walygator Park near Agen

For a fun-filled day with the family, head to Walygator Sud-Ouest Park (formerly Walibi Agen), the first amusement park in the Southwest, located in Roquefort, near Agen, halfway between Bordeaux and Toulouse!

On the program: no fewer than twenty attractions, a show, restaurants, and water features including water games and slides. Enough to keep young and old entertained from morning until late afternoon!

7 - Saint-Caprais Cathedral

Explore the impressive Saint-Caprais Cathedral, a 12th-century architectural gem nestled in the heart of Agen. Quite unassuming from the outside, it reveals its full splendor to those who dare to enter: vibrant stained-glass windows, tapestries embellished with gold leaf, and painted decoration from floor to ceiling. It harmoniously blends Romanesque architecture, with its apse, and Gothic architecture, with its nave.

Classified as a Historical Monument in 1862, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Routes of Santiago de Compostela. An essential stop for anyone wishing to delve into the history of Agen!

8 - Boat trip from Agen

Embark on a relaxing cruise on the Canal de Garonne and let yourself drift along while admiring the picturesque surroundings. This experience will allow you to discover Agen from a different perspective. You'll find boat rental companies at the Quai de Dunkerque, also offering departures on the Baïse River.

9 - Go shopping in Agen

Take a stroll and do some shopping on the " Boul piéton," THE place to shop in Agen. This pedestrian street, dating back to the 19^th century, is the city's largest shopping street. Pleasant for a leisurely walk, it's lined with trees and features stone facades.

10 - Walk in the Passeligne Nature Park

It's in the Agen area, its green lung! 14km of paths, regular sporting events and play areas for children. There are sports fields, a refreshment stand, orienteering courses and a lovely lake for fishing (with a permit).

With this list of 10 must-see attractions in and around Agen, you're ready to make the most of your stay, exploring tourist sites, discovering local culture, and soaking up the unique atmosphere of this city in the Lot-et-Garonne region. Have a great trip!

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