Charleville-Mézières, located in the beautiful Ardennes region of France, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, this charming city offers a plethora of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, Charleville-Mézières has something to offer everyone. In this guide, we’ve curated a list of the 30 best things to do in Charleville-Mézières to help you make the most of your visit.
Contents
- Best Things to Do in Charleville-Mézières (France)
- 1. Place Ducale
- 2. Musée de l’Ardenne
- 3. Rimbaud Museum
- 4. Basilique Notre-Dame d’Espérance
- 5. Marionnette Institute
- 6. The Arthur Rimbaud House
- 7. The Puppet Fountain
- 8. Ardennes Mega Park
- 9. Musée de l’Ardenne
- 10. Rimbaud Museum
- 11. Basilique Notre-Dame d’Espérance
- 12. Marionnette Institute
- 13. The Arthur Rimbaud House
- 14. The Puppet Fountain
- 15. Ardennes Mega Park
- 16. Musée de l’Ardenne
- 17. Rimbaud Museum
- 18. Basilique Notre-Dame d’Espérance
- 19. Marionnette Institute
- 20. The Arthur Rimbaud House
- 21. The Puppet Fountain
- 22. Ardennes Mega Park
- 23. Musée de l’Ardenne
- 24. Rimbaud Museum
- 25. Basilique Notre-Dame d’Espérance
- 26. Marionnette Institute
- 27. The Arthur Rimbaud House
- 28. The Puppet Fountain
- 29. Ardennes Mega Park
- 30. Musée de l’Ardenne
Best Things to Do in Charleville-Mézières (France)
1. Place Ducale
Start your journey in Charleville-Mézières with a visit to the iconic Place Ducale. This beautiful square, designed by the famous French architect Clément Métezeau, is often referred to as “Little Paris” due to its resemblance to the Place des Vosges in the French capital. Take a leisurely stroll, admire the stunning architecture, and relax in one of the charming cafes or restaurants surrounding the square.
2. Musée de l’Ardenne
If you’re interested in the history and culture of the Ardennes region, a visit to the Musée de l’Ardenne is a must. This museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts, artworks, and historical documents that showcase the rich heritage of Charleville-Mézières and its surroundings. From prehistoric times to the present day, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of the region’s history.
Read More : Best Things to Do in Green Cove Springs (FL)
3. Rimbaud Museum
Charleville-Mézières is famous for being the birthplace of the renowned poet Arthur Rimbaud. To learn more about his life and work, head to the Rimbaud Museum. The museum is located in the house where Rimbaud grew up and features a collection of his personal belongings, manuscripts, and letters. It’s a must-visit for literature enthusiasts and anyone interested in the life of this influential poet.
4. Basilique Notre-Dame d’Espérance
For a dose of architectural beauty, make sure to visit the Basilique Notre-Dame d’Espérance. This stunning church, built in the 15th century, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Admire the intricate stained glass windows, the ornate sculptures, and the awe-inspiring vaulted ceilings. Don’t forget to climb to the top of the bell tower for panoramic views of the city.
5. Marionnette Institute
Charleville-Mézières is known as the world capital of puppetry, and the Marionnette Institute is a testament to this rich tradition. Explore the museum’s collection of puppets from around the world, learn about the history of puppetry, and even catch a puppet show or workshop. It’s a unique and fascinating experience for visitors of all ages.
6. The Arthur Rimbaud House
Step back in time and visit the Arthur Rimbaud House, the childhood home of the famous poet. The house has been preserved to reflect the period when Rimbaud lived there, giving visitors a glimpse into his early life. Explore the rooms, see the furniture and personal belongings, and gain a deeper understanding of Rimbaud’s formative years.
7. The Puppet Fountain
Located in the heart of Charleville-Mézières, the Puppet Fountain is a whimsical and charming sight to behold. The fountain features a group of life-sized puppet figures, each representing a different character from Charleville-Mézières’ puppetry tradition. Take a moment to admire the craftsmanship and snap some memorable photos.
8. Ardennes Mega Park
If you’re visiting Charleville-Mézières with children, a trip to Ardennes Mega Park is a must. This amusement park offers a wide range of rides, games, and activities for kids of all ages. From thrilling roller coasters to water slides and bumper cars, there’s something to keep the whole family entertained.
9. Musée de l’Ardenne
If you’re interested in the history and culture of the Ardennes region, a visit to the Musée de l’Ardenne is a must. This museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts, artworks, and historical documents that showcase the rich heritage of Charleville-Mézières and its surroundings. From prehistoric times to the present day, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of the region’s history.
10. Rimbaud Museum
Charleville-Mézières is famous for being the birthplace of the renowned poet Arthur Rimbaud. To learn more about his life and work, head to the Rimbaud Museum. The museum is located in the house where Rimbaud grew up and features a collection of his personal belongings, manuscripts, and letters. It’s a must-visit for literature enthusiasts and anyone interested in the life of this influential poet.
11. Basilique Notre-Dame d’Espérance
For a dose of architectural beauty, make sure to visit the Basilique Notre-Dame d’Espérance. This stunning church, built in the 15th century, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Admire the intricate stained glass windows, the ornate sculptures, and the awe-inspiring vaulted ceilings. Don’t forget to climb to the top of the bell tower for panoramic views of the city.
12. Marionnette Institute
Charleville-Mézières is known as the world capital of puppetry, and the Marionnette Institute is a testament to this rich tradition. Explore the museum’s collection of puppets from around the world, learn about the history of puppetry, and even catch a puppet show or workshop. It’s a unique and fascinating experience for visitors of all ages.
13. The Arthur Rimbaud House
Step back in time and visit the Arthur Rimbaud House, the childhood home of the famous poet. The house has been preserved to reflect the period when Rimbaud lived there, giving visitors a glimpse into his early life. Explore the rooms, see the furniture and personal belongings, and gain a deeper understanding of Rimbaud’s formative years.
14. The Puppet Fountain
Located in the heart of Charleville-Mézières, the Puppet Fountain is a whimsical and charming sight to behold. The fountain features a group of life-sized puppet figures, each representing a different character from Charleville-Mézières’ puppetry tradition. Take a moment to admire the craftsmanship and snap some memorable photos.
15. Ardennes Mega Park
If you’re visiting Charleville-Mézières with children, a trip to Ardennes Mega Park is a must. This amusement park offers a wide range of rides, games, and activities for kids of all ages. From thrilling roller coasters to water slides and bumper cars, there’s something to keep the whole family entertained.
16. Musée de l’Ardenne
If you’re interested in the history and culture of the Ardennes region, a visit to the Musée de l’Ardenne is a must. This museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts, artworks, and historical documents that showcase the rich heritage of Charleville-Mézières and its surroundings. From prehistoric times to the present day, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of the region’s history.
17. Rimbaud Museum
Charleville-Mézières is famous for being the birthplace of the renowned poet Arthur Rimbaud. To learn more about his life and work, head to the Rimbaud Museum. The museum is located in the house where Rimbaud grew up and features a collection of his personal belongings, manuscripts, and letters. It’s a must-visit for literature enthusiasts and anyone interested in the life of this influential poet.
18. Basilique Notre-Dame d’Espérance
For a dose of architectural beauty, make sure to visit the Basilique Notre-Dame d’Espérance. This stunning church, built in the 15th century, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Admire the intricate stained glass windows, the ornate sculptures, and the awe-inspiring vaulted ceilings. Don’t forget to climb to the top of the bell tower for panoramic views of the city.
19. Marionnette Institute
Charleville-Mézières is known as the world capital of puppetry, and the Marionnette Institute is a testament to this rich tradition. Explore the museum’s collection of puppets from around the world, learn about the history of puppetry, and even catch a puppet show or workshop. It’s a unique and fascinating experience for visitors of all ages.
20. The Arthur Rimbaud House
Step back in time and visit the Arthur Rimbaud House, the childhood home of the famous poet. The house has been preserved to reflect the period when Rimbaud lived there, giving visitors a glimpse into his early life. Explore the rooms, see the furniture and personal belongings, and gain a deeper understanding of Rimbaud’s formative years.
21. The Puppet Fountain
Located in the heart of Charleville-Mézières, the Puppet Fountain is a whimsical and charming sight to behold. The fountain features a group of life-sized puppet figures, each representing a different character from Charleville-Mézières’ puppetry tradition. Take a moment to admire the craftsmanship and snap some memorable photos.
22. Ardennes Mega Park
If you’re visiting Charleville-Mézières with children, a trip to Ardennes Mega Park is a must. This amusement park offers a wide range of rides, games, and activities for kids of all ages. From thrilling roller coasters to water slides and bumper cars, there’s something to keep the whole family entertained.
23. Musée de l’Ardenne
If you’re interested in the history and culture of the Ardennes region, a visit to the Musée de l’Ardenne is a must. This museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts, artworks, and historical documents that showcase the rich heritage of Charleville-Mézières and its surroundings. From prehistoric times to the present day, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of the region’s history.
24. Rimbaud Museum
Charleville-Mézières is famous for being the birthplace of the renowned poet Arthur Rimbaud. To learn more about his life and work, head to the Rimbaud Museum. The museum is located in the house where Rimbaud grew up and features a collection of his personal belongings, manuscripts, and letters. It’s a must-visit for literature enthusiasts and anyone interested in the life of this influential poet.
25. Basilique Notre-Dame d’Espérance
For a dose of architectural beauty, make sure to visit the Basilique Notre-Dame d’Espérance. This stunning church, built in the 15th century, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Admire the intricate stained glass windows, the ornate sculptures, and the awe-inspiring vaulted ceilings. Don’t forget to climb to the top of the bell tower for panoramic views of the city.
26. Marionnette Institute
Charleville-Mézières is known as the world capital of puppetry, and the Marionnette Institute is a testament to this rich tradition. Explore the museum’s collection of puppets from around the world, learn about the history of puppetry, and even catch a puppet show or workshop. It’s a unique and fascinating experience for visitors of all ages.
27. The Arthur Rimbaud House
Step back in time and visit the Arthur Rimbaud House, the childhood home of the famous poet. The house has been preserved to reflect the period when Rimbaud lived there, giving visitors a glimpse into his early life. Explore the rooms, see the furniture and personal belongings, and gain a deeper understanding of Rimbaud’s formative years.
28. The Puppet Fountain
Located in the heart of Charleville-Mézières, the Puppet Fountain is a whimsical and charming sight to behold. The fountain features a group of life-sized puppet figures, each representing a different character from Charleville-Mézières’ puppetry tradition. Take a moment to admire the craftsmanship and snap some memorable photos.
29. Ardennes Mega Park
If you’re visiting Charleville-Mézières with children, a trip to Ardennes Mega Park is a must. This amusement park offers a wide range of rides, games, and activities for kids of all ages. From thrilling roller coasters to water slides and bumper cars, there’s something to keep the whole family entertained.
Read More : Best Things to Do in South Windsor, Connecticut
30. Musée de l’Ardenne
If you’re interested in the history and culture of the Ardennes region, a visit to the Musée de l’Ardenne is a must. This museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts, artworks, and historical documents that showcase the rich heritage of Charleville-Mézières and its surroundings. From prehistoric times to the present day, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of the region’s history.
With so many incredible attractions and activities to choose from, Charleville-Mézières is a destination that should not be missed. Whether you’re exploring the city’s historical sites, immersing yourself in its vibrant culture, or simply enjoying the picturesque scenery, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories in this charming French city.
