Car hire Valence

Introduction

Valence is the capital city of the department Drôme. The biggest attraction of the town is the Cathédrale St-Apollinaire. This church was built in the 11th century, but badly damaged during the French religious wars. Around the church you will find the old and narrow streets of Vieux Valence, called côtes. 

There are some interesting walking routes in the city, including some along the many canals in Valence.

Population

Valence has 95,000 inhabitants. 

Location

The city is located in southeastern France, on the left bank of the Rhone river. Many people know Valence because it lies along the A7, the Autoroute du Soleil.

Economy

Metal and textile industries are the traditional base of the local economy. In recent years, many famous high-tech companies opened a subsidiary in Valence. Furthermore, leather products and jewelry are manufactured here, and Valence is the commercial center for agricultural products in the area. It is also an important educational center: Valence has a university (founded in the 15th century) and there are many other institutes of (specialized) higher education.

Airports

There are plans to open up the airport of Valence (7 kilometers east of the city) for budget flights. Currently the airport of Grenoble in Saint-Ettiene is the nearest airport for commercial flights. From the airport you will reach Valence fast with a rental car via highways A48 and A49. 

Public transportation

Valence has good public bus transportation. The buses of the company CTAV run frequently to destinations in and around Valence. The city also has a train station and a TGV-station.

Traffic and parking

It is not difficult to find your way in Valence. Finding a parking space for your rental car is also no problem; it's best to park your rental car in one of the parking garages or on a parking lot.

Hotels

Valence has a good supply of hotels: from simple guest houses to middle class hotels. On the field of the hostel there is a city camp site, but around Valence many camp sites are also available.

External resources

For more information on Valence, we recommend Google and the following sources:

• Wikipedia, Valence
• Official website Valence (French)
• Tourist information Valence (multilingual)