Welcome to Givet, the northernmost town in the Ardennes department and the true prow of the Ardennes Valley. Like a stone sentinel standing on the Belgian border, Givet is a town of history, water, and character. Bisected by the majestic Meuse River, it reveals two distinct faces: Givet-Saint-Hilaire (Grand-Givet) and Givet-Notre-Dame (Petit-Givet), both watched over by one of the largest fortresses in Europe, the Fort of Charlemont.
Once a stronghold coveted by French kings and emperors, Givet boasts an exceptional architectural heritage, marked by the genius of Vauban and the noble local blue stone. Today, this vibrant town is the ideal starting point for exploring the meanders of the Meuse River, whether on foot, by bike on the Trans-Ardennes Green Way, or by boat.
Whether you're passionate about military history, a river cruise enthusiast, or simply looking for a change of scenery, Givet welcomes you. Let yourself be surprised by this fortified city where the history of France and Europe was written.
Why visit Givet? The 5 must-sees
- Explore the Fort of Charlemont: Immerse yourself in over 500 years of European military history in a colossal citadel.
- Navigating the Meuse River: Discover the city from its marina or during a river cruise.
- Cycling at Kilometer Zero: Givet is the starting (or finishing) point of the famous Trans-Ardennes Green Route (EuroVelo 19).
- Admire a unique heritage: From Vauban's ramparts to the blue stone facades, the city is an open-air museum.
- A taste of “French Belgium”: Its unique border location gives it an atmosphere and gastronomy with Belgian influences.
Givet in brief: The essentials you need to know
To help you prepare for your stay in the “Pointe de Givet”, here is the key information about this capital of the Val d'Ardenne.
City identity card
Region: Grand East
Department : Ardennes (08)
Territory: Val d'Ardenne
Intermunicipal cooperation: CC Ardenne, Rives de Meuse
Population: 6,356 inhabitants (INSEE census 2022)
Area: 18,41 km²
Kind: The people of Givet and the women of Givet
Postal code : 08600
Reference point: Located on the banks of the Meuse, on the border with Belgium, about 25 km north of Revin and 50 km from Charleville-Mézières.
Echoes of History: From Charles V to Vauban
The strategic importance of Givet has never been a secret. The town, located in a bottleneck of the Meuse valley, has always been a crucial transit and control point.
The work of Charles V
This is the emperor Charles Quint who, in 1555, first grasped the importance of this rocky promontory. He ordered the construction of a fortress to protect his territories from the ambitions of the King of France. He named it “Charlemont” in his own honor. This original citadel forms the heart of the fort we know today.
Vauban's genius
In 1680, Louis XIV's troops captured the city. The Sun King, recognizing the site's potential, tasked his most brilliant engineer, Sébastien Le Prestre de Vaubanto modernize and expand the defenses. Vauban will rethink the whole thing. He reinforces Charlemont, but above all, he surrounds the two towns (Grand-Givet and Petit-Givet) with a new bastioned wall, creating a double fortified town capable of defending each other thanks to a protected bridge.
Givet thus became one of the most formidable strongholds of Vauban's "Pré Carré", the double line of fortified towns protecting the kingdom.
From the World Wars to the Commando Center
The fortress played a role in all the major conflicts, from the French Revolution to the World Wars. After the Second World War, from 1961 to 2009, Fort Charlemont found a new purpose, becoming the famous Commando Training Center (CEC) of the French Army, training generations of elite soldiers.
What to see and do in Givet? The must-sees
Givet is not a museum town; it's a living city where every stone tells a story. Here are the essential steps for your visit.
The Fort of Charlemont: An open-air citadel
It's the number one attraction, and for good reason. Spanning 60 hectares, the Fort of Charlemont dominates the town and the valley.
Visit : You can opt for a self-guided tour (allow 1.5 to 2 hours) with an audio guide to discover the different periods of fortification, from the bastions of Charles V to the works of Vauban.
The panoramas: The ramparts offer spectacular and unparalleled views of both Givet, the loops of the Meuse and neighbouring Belgium.
The “Heart of Charlemont” experience: For an unusual visit, hop on an all-terrain electric scooter to explore the most secret and rugged parts of the fortress.
Practical information : The site is open from April to October (check opening times). Guided tours are also offered at set times.
The historic center: From one bank to the other
The Meuse River separates Givet into two historic districts, linked by the Europe Bridge.
Givet-Saint-Hilaire (Grand-Givet)
This is the administrative and commercial heart.
Saint-Hilaire Church: Built on the orders of Vauban, this listed church features a remarkable Jesuit style and an unexpected bulbous bell tower.
The statue of Méhul: In Place Méhul stands the statue of Étienne-Nicolas Méhul, a composer from Givet famous for “Le Chant du Départ”.
The docks: Stroll along the quays to admire the alignment of the houses and the view of Charlemont.
Givet-Notre-Dame (Petit-Givet)
More residential and intimate, this district is the historical cradle.
Notre-Dame Church: Older, it dates in part from the 14th century and was redesigned by Vauban.
The City Gates: Admire the remains of Vauban's ramparts, including the Rancennes Gate and Porte de France, which marked the entrances to the city.
The Blue Stone of Givet: Keep your eyes peeled! This local limestone, a deep blue-grey, is everywhere: in the foundations of houses, door frames and fortifications.
The Historic Towers: Victory and Gregory
At the city's extremities, two medieval towers serve as reminders that Givet was fortified long before Vauban. Victory Tower (left bank) and the Gregory Tower (on the right bank, on the heights) are the oldest witnesses to Givet's history. The Grégoire Tower offers a very beautiful view of the “Petit-Givet”.
The RIVÉA Aquatic Centre
For a relaxing family outing or after a long day of walking, the RIVÉA center is an ideal destination. It offers a fun pool area (water slide, lazy river) and a complete wellness area with spa, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi.
Outdoor and nature activities: The Call of the Meuse
Givet is the gateway to an exceptional natural area. The Meuse is not just a backdrop, it's an invitation to gentle adventure.
The Trans-Ardennes Green Route (EuroVelo 19)
Givet marks the kilometer 0 of the Trans-Ardennes Green Way, one of the most beautiful cycle routes in France. Developed on the old towpath, this completely flat and safe path takes you along the water.
Heading South: Pedal towards Haybes, Fumay et Returned while admiring the spectacular landscapes of the Meuse loops.
Location: You will easily find bike rentals (classic or electric) near the starting point.
On the water: Marina and cruises
Le Givet marina is a popular stopover for European boaters.
Cruises: During the season, embark on a narrated cruise to discover the “Pointe de Givet” from the river, a unique perspective on the ramparts and Charlemont.
Nautical activities: It is also possible to rent small electric boats without a license or to venture out in a canoe or kayak.
Hiking and panoramic views: Mont d'Haurs
Opposite Charlemont, on the right bank, lies the Mont d'HaursThis limestone plateau, which is part of the Pointe de Givet National Nature ReserveIt too was a fortification project by Vauban (which remained unfinished). Today, it is an exceptional hiking site offering breathtaking views of the citadel opposite. Marked trails allow you to discover unique flora and fauna (including wild orchids).
Around Givet: Our suggestions in the Ardennes Valley
Givet is an ideal base for exploring the region. Here are a few ideas for excursions less than 30 minutes away, not to be missed during your stay in the Ardennes Valley:
Yesterday: Just a few kilometers south, don't miss Yesterday, ranked among the most beautiful villages in the region. This perfectly preserved medieval village, with its cobbled streets, stone houses and castle (private but visible from the outside), transports you back to the Middle Ages.
Fromelennes: Just next to Givet, this town is home to the fascinating Cave of Nichet, a natural cavity resembling an underground cathedral, the source of many legends.
Chooz: For those curious about science and industry, the Chooz Nuclear Power Plant offers an information center and tours (by reservation) to understand how nuclear energy works.
Southward: Continue your journey down the Meuse to discover Haybes (the “Martyr”), Fumay (and its Terraltitude park) or Returned and its “Spanish House”.
Givet: Practical Information
🍽️ Where to eat in Givet?
Givet offers a diverse range of dining options. You'll find everything from traditional French brasseries to excellent restaurants. chips (Belgian influence obliges!). Many restaurants (such as “Giv' et Mouettes” or “Le Roosevelt”) offer pleasant terraces on the banks of the Meuse.
For a complete list, see our dedicated page on Restaurants in the Ardennes Valley.
🛌 Where to stay in or near Givet?
The accommodation offer is comprehensive:
Hotels: Several hotels (such as “Les Reflets Jaunes”) welcome you in the city centre.
Gîtes and Bed and Breakfasts: Numerous charming options are available in Givet and the surrounding villages such as Yesterday ou Fromelennes.
Camping: A municipal campsite is located near the centre.
To book your stay, please visit our page Accommodation.
🚗 How to get here and park?
By car : Givet is accessible via Belgium (Dinant) or via France via the D8051 (which runs along the Meuse) or the A304 (Rocroi exit, then N43).
By train : La Givet Station is a terminus of the TER line which connects it directly to Revin and Charleville-Mézières (with connections to Paris or Reims).
By bike : Via EuroVelo 19 / Trans-Ardennes Green Route.
parking: Large free car parks are available, notably at Place de la République (left bank) and near the marina (right bank).
ℹ️ Information point
For more information, documentation, or personalized advice, please visit theGivet Tourist Office (Val d'Ardenne Tourist Office branch), located on Quai des Fours. Our travel advisors will be happy to help you make your visit a success.