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This blog post has been a huge success, so I've decided to update it (May 2026) with some new places and addresses to visit on your next trip, or even if you're a local!

Now that I'm living in Valenciennes, I still feel a bit like a tourist. So, I decided to treat myself to a day wandering through the streets of this charming Northern French city. It's still relatively unknown to travellers, but it absolutely deserves a visit.

In this article, I'm sharing everything I discovered during my stroll, along with some of my favourite photos.

And if you prefer video content, you can catch all the highlights from my day over on TikTok right here: @new.escapade

What better way to start the day than by watching the city wake up?

The streets slowly come to life. Some people are heading off to work, others are setting out to explore, and some, like me, are simply taking the time to wander.

I decided to soak up the atmosphere and walk from the train station through the nearby streets, with no real destination in mind. The tram, already full of passengers, glides through the city, dropping everyone off at their destination. Such a simple scene, yet full of life

After my little morning walk, it was definitely time for a break. 

Craving something warm and comforting, I went for a matcha latte. Before heading out, I'd spotted the opening of a brand-new café near the station: Café Nani. a unique manga-inspired café unlike anything else in Valenciennes.

Run by an incredibly passionate and welcoming owner, I had the chance to chat with her about her love for manga and her desire to share that world with others.

Whether you're a manga fan or simply curious, it's a wonderful little escape. A place I'd recommend without hesitation!

After this lovely break, I continued exploring on foot, starting with Place d'Armes.

Standing proudly in the square is the magnificent Town Hall, an impressive historic monument. Originally built in 1611, it was later destroyed and rebuilt, but its stunning façade is still well worth admiring. Surrounded by cafés and shops, it's the perfect place to wander and soak up the atmosphere of the city.

Breakfast stop :

While strolling through town, I stopped by Aux Merveilleux de Fred, a famous bakery whose delicious pastries have earned an international reputation. This time, I treated myself to a chocolate chip cramique brioche, a Northern French speciality that I recommend 100%. It was absolutely delicious and definitely not to be missed!

I'm genuinely so happy to be back in Northern France, especially because I get to enjoy all the incredible local food that I missed so much while living abroad. 

After my sweet break, I headed towards Rue de Quesnoy, home to the magnificent Basilica of Notre-Dame du Saint-Cordon.

This impressive church sits on a quiet little square surrounded by residential streets, making it the perfect place to pause for a moment of peace and tranquillity, a true hidden oasis right in the heart of the city.

After a bit of shopping in the Place d'Armes shopping centre, it was already time to think about lunch. 

On today's menu: a true Northern French classic, Welsh, served with a Goudale beer in a local restaurant.

Honestly, it was absolutely delicious! I recommend everyone tries Welsh at least once. For me, it's the must-try dish if you're visiting this region. It's rich, comforting, full of flavour, and proudly Ch'ti.

Other great lunch spots

-If you're in the mood for Indian food: Royal indien. Delicious, generous portions, and incredibly welcoming.

-If you prefer Japanese cuisine: YA MAN. Fresh sushi made to order, attentive service, and simply my personal favourite.

And what better way to follow a great meal than with a relaxing walk?

I made my way towards the Museum of Fine Arts, but unfortunately it's currently undergoing renovations.

No problem. I changed my plans and discovered the Jardin de la Rhônelle, a lovely green oasis right in the city centre.

The park is dotted with sculptures created by Valenciennes artists, making it a peaceful place to wander. The lush greenery provides plenty of shade, and on a sunny day it's the perfect place to sit back and relax.

P.S. I even made a YouTube video about the city

Along the way, I also passed the Tour de la Dodenne, an old fortified gate that once controlled the city's waterways. A little glimpse into Valenciennes' fascinating history before making my way back towards the centre.

By now it was 4 p.m., the perfect excuse for an afternoon treat!

I discovered a lovely artisan cookie shop in the city centre called Bunny's Cookies, famous for its huge stuffed cookies with unique flavours.

I couldn't resist trying the matcha cookie and the Biscoff cookie, and they were absolutely delicious. I highly recommend giving them a try. You won't be disappointed.

Sadly, it's now closed as well, so I'd once again recommend La Mezzanine, or Aux Merveilleux de Fred instead

I finished my day exactly the way it began: slowly and peacefully, sitting on a terrace in Place d'Armes, coffee in hand, writing these very lines under the sunshine.

Valenciennes is a city full of surprises.

Of course, I haven't had time to see or taste everything yet, but this first glimpse has already completely won me over.

The city is surrounded by beautiful neighbouring towns that I can't wait to explore, and filled with welcoming people I'm looking forward to meeting.

I'm especially thinking of Le Vignoble and the park in Fresnes-sur-Escaut, where I recently enjoyed a lovely walk with my dog, a little adventure I'll be sharing with you very soon.

After enjoying the sunshine, I continued my day in search of a good restaurant.

To my delight, Valenciennes is home to a Korean restaurant Kimlee Korean BBQ & Soju Bar. The meal was generous, delicious, and served in a cosy, intimate setting. The service was excellent, and as someone who loves Asian cuisine, this place is an absolute hidden gem.

Shops worth visiting 

- La Maison du Savon de Marseille Valenciennes : beautiful handmade soaps and souvenirs.

- Farfadet joueur : board game shop.

- Osakatoys : manga and Japanese pop culture store.

- Saveurs et Découvertes - loose-leaf teas and coffee.

- Les halles : Place-Ô-Marché

Activities : 

- Escape game : Geekscape et Passager 23

- Karaoke : DivertyBox 

And that's the end of my day in Valenciennes.

There's something really special about being a tourist in your own city, taking the time to explore, wander, and enjoy it as though you're on holiday.

I truly encourage everyone to embrace local tourism. Being curious about your own town or neighbouring villages often leads to discovering unexpected treasures, hidden gems...

...and most importantly, meeting the passionate locals who bring our towns and regions to life.

Take your time.

It really is something precious.

Don't forget, you can also find me on TikTok and YouTube!

I'll be sharing my adventures through video, with vlogs from all around Northern France and Belgium throughout the summer.

My goal? To inspire you to discover, or rediscover, this beautiful region, which might just be your own.

Feel free to visit my website, New Escapade, where you can learn more about my upcoming travel projects and personalised travel planning services.

P.S. If you have a favourite place in Northern France or know of somewhere you'd love me to visit, let me know in the comments!

I'd be delighted to check it out.

See you very soon,

Ana, New Escapade

If you are around why not visiting Mons en Belgique.  I have some adresses for you.