Getting Around: Angers

Public Transit Systems

Angers has no metro system. Its public transport relies on a modern tramway line and an extensive bus network. The single tram line (Line A) runs north-south through the city center, connecting many major points of interest. It offers a quick and comfortable way to cross the city.

The Irigo bus network complements the tramway, with numerous routes covering the entire city and surrounding areas. Buses reach neighborhoods and attractions not served directly by the tram. The main hub for both the tram and bus networks is the Gare Saint-Laud (train station).

Ticketing & Accessibility

Single Ticket (~€1.70, valid 1 hour with transfers). 10-Trip Ticket (~€13.40). Day Pass (~€4.50, unlimited 24 hours). Angers City Pass includes transport. All tickets must be validated.
Tram operates from ~5:30 AM to ~00:30 AM. Peak hours: every 6-10 minutes. Off-peak: 15-20 minutes. Bus hours vary; reduced service on Sundays/holidays.
The Angers tramway is fully accessible with low-floor vehicles and level boarding. Buses are generally accessible. Some older parts of the city or attractions may present accessibility challenges due to historic architecture.
Tips: Download the official Irigo app. Always validate your ticket. Plan journeys during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.

Route Maps & Hubs

Main hub: Gare Saint-Laud. Other stops: Ralliement, Château, St-Serge Université. Maps are at Irigo agencies, stops, and online.

Fares & Passes

Single ticket: €1.70. 10-trip: €13.40. Day pass: €4.50. Angers City Pass includes transport for 24h/48h/72h.

Accessibility

Tramway is fully accessible for wheelchair users. Buses generally accessible. Contact venues for specific accessibility information.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Identifiable by "Taxi" sign on roof and internal meter.
Find at designated stands, notably outside Angers Saint-Laud train station.
Typical fare from train station to city center: €8-€15. Most accept cash and major credit cards.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Uber operates in Angers; fares are competitive and transparent via the app. Bolt may also be available.
Always confirm driver and vehicle match app info for safety. Licensed taxis are regulated.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Requires valid driver's license (IDP for non-EU), credit card for deposit. Age 21-25 with surcharge. Major companies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, Budget, Enterprise) are near Angers Saint-Laud station.

Bike Sharing Velocité

Angers has its own bike-sharing system with electric and traditional bikes at various stations. Good for short rides.

Private Bike Rentals

Numerous shops in Angers rent bicycles, including electric bikes for Loire à Vélo routes. Prices ~€15-€30/day. Helmets, locks, maps often included.

Driving Laws

Drive on right. Seatbelts mandatory. Children under 10 in car seats. Speed limits strictly enforced (50 km/h urban, 80 km/h rural, 110-130 km/h motorways). Toll roads common.

Walking & Cycling in Angers

Angers is a city that invites exploration on foot or by bicycle. Its pedestrian-friendly areas and cycling paths make for excellent ways to experience the city and its surroundings.

Pedestrian Friendly Areas

Angers city center is highly walkable, with many pedestrianized streets.
Historic district around the Château, Cathédrale Saint-Maurice, and Place du Ralliement.
Banks of the Maine River offer pleasant walking paths with scenic views of the Château.
Tourist Office provides free maps with suggested self-guided walking tours. Guided tours are also possible.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

Angers has a good network of dedicated bike lanes within the city.
Angers is a point on the famous Loire à Vélo cycling route; well-marked, mostly flat paths.
Wear a helmet while cycling (recommended). Obey all traffic laws. Be visible with lights at night.
No-Go Areas: Angers is generally safe; no specific "no-go" areas. Exercise normal precautions late at night.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Angers has no hop-on-hop-off service. Tour operators offer bus excursions from Angers to Loire Valley châteaux, including transport and entrance fees. Check with Tourist Office.

Visit multiple castles without a car.
Typically includes entrance fees.
Check with local tourist office.

Boat Tours

Seasonal boat tours are available on the Maine River, offering unique views of the Château d'Angers. Longer Loire River cruises are mainly for leisure and sightseeing.

Scenic views from the river.
Leisure activity, not daily commuting.
Often start/end at larger towns.

Accessibility Services

Irigo public transport strives for accessibility (low-floor trams). Major attractions like Château d'Angers have improved access. Historic sites and cobbled streets can pose challenges.

Trams are designed for accessibility.
Château d'Angers accessibility efforts.
Contact venues for specific info.

Driving & Parking Cautions

Driving Rules

France drives on the right side of the road.
Speed limits are strictly enforced with cameras.
Drunk driving laws are stringent, with very low blood alcohol limits.

Parking Challenges

Parking in Angers city center can be challenging and expensive.
Look for underground parking garages (Mail, République).
Street parking is limited and paid through meters.

Final Tip for Getting Around

When planning your daily activities, calculate walking distances. While Angers is compact, combining walking with a tram ride for longer stretches saves energy and time.

For short trips in the city center, walking is often quicker than waiting for public transport, and it lets you discover hidden corners.

Getting Around Angers