Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Valenciennes. Valenciennes-Denain Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 100 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave XVS:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for France. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Valenciennes takes about 100 minutes by Bus Ligne 108. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Valenciennes:
Start with Musée des Beaux-Arts de Valenciennes. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Valenciennes. Then, if time allows, make your way to Place d’Armes. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Valenciennes.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at XVS, check out General Aviation Observation or Bar Snack ‘Le 7’ Seating Area to keep yourself occupied.
Getting to Valenciennes from the Airport
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus Ligne 108 | ~100 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~120 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Bus Ligne 108 is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Eating Well on a Valenciennes Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Valenciennes: La Table du Meunier and L’Estaminet du Vieux Valenciennes. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Bar Snack ‘Le 7’ or Quick Bites Counter (Terminal). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
What to Budget for Your Valenciennes Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Valenciennes:
Transport to the city and back runs about $11 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $22 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $43 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at XVS for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Valenciennes or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Bag Storage Near XVS
Dedicated luggage storage at XVS may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Valenciennes’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at XVS include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in France also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Valenciennes exploring the streets or relaxing at XVS, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.