Givet France one day itinerary
Givet France is a small town that lies along the Ardennes trail near the Belgian border. Although not as rich, popular, and big as the other towns in the Ardennes, Givet has a charm in its own way especially when visited during good weather and season. The town lies on the Meuse river, which passes other countries such as Belgium and The Netherlands. Given the size of Givet France, the town could be toured in one day by walking. Below is a one day itinerary map for your visit in the town of Givet.
Given France one day itinerary
1. Citadel of Charlemont
The Citadel of Charlemont, located on the center of Pointe de Givet Nature Reserve, is the main attraction of Givet. This architecture is a testament of the town’s strategic importance in European history. Originally built by Charles V, Emperor of the Holy Roman empire, during the 16th century to serve as a stronghold against the French empire led by Henry II, the Citadel of Charlemont witnessed a number of historical events. These include the Citadel being handed over to King Louis XIV of France in 1680, the torpedo shell crisis in 1880s following the Franco-Prussian war, up to the bombardment of the town during World Wars 1 and 2. Nowadays, the Citadel of Charlemont offers a panoramic views of Givet and the Meuse Valley.
2. Givet Town
After exploring the citadel, wander through Givet’s picturesque streets. The town has a number of unrestored historical architectures that can still be seen despite the town being heavily damaged during the Second World War. These include the Church of St. Hilary, the Convent of the Recollectines (now the town library and exhibition centre), the 18th century Church of Notre-Dame on the banks of the Meuse, the Town Hall, with its external balcony and tower, and the Porte de France – originally a defensive gateway into Givet that is now the main road and rail access through the defensive walls.
3. Riverside Restaurants
Givet France also has a number of restaurants that will let you enjoy French and other nation’s cuisines at reasonable prices. The options include La Cuisine Du 19 Givet (French), On dirait le sud (Moroccan), L’Auberge de la Tour (French & European), L Olivo (Italian), and Maison Baudoin (French and Bristish).
4. Le Chai de Givet
If you fancy tasting wines at the heart of Givet, Le Chai de Givet is a place to be. You can find here nice wines, alcohols, and distilled drinks at best prices. To find the variations of products that they offer, feel free to browse the website of Le Chai de Givet.
5. Centre Européen des Métiers d’Art (European Arts and Crafts Association)
If you want to find some interesting local exhibitions and products – whether it is culinary, artistic, or cultural in Givet France, the Centre Européen des Métiers d’Art is then the best place to visit. Although a small place, it showcases local craftsmanship of the artisans in Givet, France at affordable prices. The admission to the area is for free and is a nice stop when you are in town.
Want to know more other cities or the Ardennes region in France and in Belgium? See my blogs on:
1. Dinant Belgium one day itinerary
2. Charleville Mezieres one day itinerary