Things to Do in Laval

The gardens of the medieval château that overlook the town. They're terraced with stone steps, giving good views of the river and old bridge. No access to the castle interior without a ticket.

🕐 Gardens open daily, 8:30am–8pm (summer); 9am–5:30pm (winter)

💡 The best view is from the top terrace just after the château entrance closes – no crowds, and the light is soft.

An 11th-century Romanesque basilica with a separate bell tower and carved wooden altarpiece. The interior is austere but the stonework is original.

🕐 Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9am–12pm and 2pm–5pm; closed Monday

💡 Check the website before visiting – guided tours in French are free on Wednesday afternoons.

A formal park behind the prefecture building with fountains, gravel paths, and mature chestnut trees. Good for a quiet stroll or reading on a bench.

🕐 Open daily, 8am–7pm (summer); 8am–5pm (winter)

💡 Access is through the iron gates on Rue du Général Lemonnier – they open at 8am sharp.

A public park with formal French gardens, a small zoo, and views over the Mayenne river. Paths are well-maintained and there's a tea room on site.

🕐 Open daily, 7:30am–9pm (summer); 8am–6pm (winter)

💡 Go on a Sunday morning when the local market sets up just outside the main gate.

A small museum dedicated to naïve and outsider art, housed in a former chapel. Collections include works by local artists and international self-taught painters.

🕐 Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am–12pm and 2pm–6pm; closed Sunday and Monday

💡 Free entry on the first Sunday of each month. The café next door does good crepes for under €5.