Overlooking a bend in the Charente River, Angoulême is a historic capital and once fortified town that’s renowned for its animation and video game studios. It has been nicknamed the “City of the Image” and boasts several engaging museums dedicated to comic books, history, art and paper.
Things to do in Angoulême
Dominated by an elaborate facade decorated with more than 70 sculptures is the Angoulême Cathedral, which dates back to the 12th century. In addition to angels, apostles and images of Christ, it features scenes from everyday life and Satan’s victims suffering in punishment. Marvel at its Romanesque design and domed roof before stepping inside to explore the comparatively stark interior.
Adjacent to the cathedral is the Musée Angoulême, which houses an impressive collection dedicated to history and art. Get up close to prehistoric and Roman artefacts uncovered in the Charente River basin, admire a 500-BC Gallic helmet and see ceramics dating back to the 16th century. Also on display are ethnographic objects from Africa, Asia and Oceania.
Comic book lovers shouldn’t miss a visit to the Musée de la Bande Dessinée, which occupies an elegant row of historic cellars on the north bank of the Charente River. Browse the French comic boards and drawings on display, then shop for unique gifts in the well-stocked store. Angoulême is also home to the Musée du Papier, which is housed within the former Joseph Bardou Le Nil cigarette paper mill.
Getting around Angoulême
Angoulême is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Bordeaux and Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Trains connect to Angoulême railway station and buses travel throughout the city. The centre of Angoulême is compact enough to explore on foot.