Guided tour — ©Alençon Tourisme, Marie-Claire Lion

Discover Alençon otherwise

You’re always better accompanied by local experts!
Whether it’s with Alençon Tourism guides, greeters who are passionate about their town or a high-performance application, take a fantastic trip back in time and learn everything you need to know about the town of Alençon and its historic districts. Relive the key moments that have marked the town… Architectural details, unusual anecdotes, confidential passages, the former City of the Dukes will no longer hold any secrets for you!

Discover Alençon with our guided tours

Guided tours Alencon Tourism — ©Alençon Tourisme, Marie-Claire Lion

Our guided tours

THE SECRETS OF THE BASILICA

Duration 1 hour

Admire Notre-Dame Basilica like never before! A familiar silhouette in Alençon since the 14th century, the basilica still has a lot to reveal: its architectural details, its stained glass windows and the history of its many chapels.

ALENÇON, CITY OF THE DUKES

Duration 1 hour

Take a tour of the emblematic monuments that have shaped the glory and renown of the former City of Dukes. Follow the guide: it’s just a short step from the 11th to the 21st century!

THE WHEAT MARKET

Duration 1 hour

An emblematic monument of the town since the 19th century, the Corn Exchange is still the heart of Alençon. Our guide will reveal its little secrets under its great glass dome, which has been a trading hall, barracks and exhibition and performance venue.

ALENÇON, THE DISCREET BEAUTY

Duration 1h30

Take the time to discover Alençon’s fabulous architectural heritage! Stroll through the narrow streets in the company of our guide, who will reveal the secrets of the characterful residences and private mansions that marked the development of the town between the 17th and 19th centuries. History is at your fingertips…

PROMINENT WOMEN OF ALENÇON

Duration 1h30

Follow in the footsteps of the influential women of Alençon on a trail that takes you to the various places that have marked their history.

THE MIDDLE AGES, A SINGULAR ERA

Duration 1h30

Visit for adults

Embark on an unexpected journey through the Cité des Ducs and discover the singular beliefs and practices of the Middle Ages.

ALENÇON DURING THE SECOND WORLD WAR

Duration 1h30

Stroll through the town’s narrow streets, steeped in history, and follow in the footsteps of the Resistance and General Leclerc’s 2nd Armoured Division as they confront the occupying German troops. This is your chance to discover anecdotes about life in Alençon from 1939 to 1945.

Visits and activities for children

IN SEARCH OF THE MAGIC CURE

Duration: 1 hour

Treasure hunt for children aged 5 to 10

Set off on a race against time to help a famous Alençon character! Use clues to find the components of the witch’s potion scattered around the Saint-Léonard district.

THE MYSTERY OF EASTER

Duration: 1 hour

Treasure hunt for children aged 5 to 10

The Duchess of Alençon’s eggs have mysteriously disappeared from the market! To save her Easter party, help Elisabeth d’Orléans find them.

Children's guided tour — ©Alençon Tourisme, Lou Marais

To discover Alençon, you can also...

Booka Greeter

They were born in our region, or have lived here for a long time, and are passionate about its history, heritage, architecture and lifestyle. These volunteer “greeters” will take the time to meet you and help you discover the treasures that surround us in a unique and authentic way.

Find out more

Download the free app LEGENDR

Installed on your smartphone or tablet, this application is an essential tool to help you discover the town of Alençon in a different way.

Discover the 3 routes through Alençon

Alençon in virtual reality: This walk through Alençon will immerse you in the history of the former City of the Dukes.
Louis & Zélie’s challenge: Alençon’s most famous couple need your help to collect 7 essential items for their wedding!
Medieval conspiracy in Alençon: Help Madeleine the lace-maker find the fabric that has been stolen from her and is to be used to make the wedding dress for the wife of the Duke of Alençon!

Find out more