Valenciennes neighborhoods: The must-know areas to discover and where to live
You’ve just landed in Valenciennes, and now comes the big question: where to live? Finding an apartment is one thing, but picking the right neighborhood—one that matches your lifestyle—is even better. Do you want a lively area that moves from morning to night? A chill zone to relax in? Or maybe a mix of both? No worries, Valenciennes has a spot for you. Let’s take a tour of the top neighborhoods where you can settle in and make the most of your time in the city.
City center: The heartbeat of Valenciennes
If you love being in the action, going out spontaneously, and having everything at your fingertips, this is where you need to be. The city center is the epicenter of Valenciennes, where you can grab a drink, shop, or catch a movie without having to trek across town. With bars, trendy restaurants, cinemas, shops, libraries, and co-working spaces, everything is within walking distance.
Housing? There’s something for everyone—studios, apartments, and shared housing (but be prepared, rent is higher here).
A huge perk of living downtown? You’re super close to campus. Université Polytechnique Hauts-de-France and other major schools are nearby, meaning you can sleep in a little longer in the morning.
At night, the Place d’Armes is the place to be. From quiz nights in cafés to study sessions in co-working spots, the area is always bustling with energy. And when you need a break from the urban vibe, you can check out the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Place du Hainaut, or the Basilique Notre-Dame du Saint-Cordon—knowing a little about the city’s history is always a plus!
Faubourg de Lille: The best of both worlds—peaceful yet central
Want to enjoy city life but without the constant noise? Faubourg de Lille is your spot. It’s close enough to downtown but offers a calmer, more laid-back vibe—perfect for studying, relaxing, or working on personal projects.
One of the best things about this neighborhood? The green spaces. If you like chilling in the sun, going for a post-class jog, or reading under a tree, the Parc de la Rhônelle will become your go-to hangout spot.
For sports lovers, the area is packed with gyms, sports fields, and outdoor workout spaces.
Rent? Much cheaper than the city center, meaning you can afford a bigger apartment or a stylish shared flat without stretching your budget.
Faubourg de Lille: The best of both worlds—peaceful yet central
Want to enjoy city life but without the constant noise? Faubourg de Lille is your spot. It’s close enough to downtown but offers a calmer, more laid-back vibe—perfect for studying, relaxing, or working on personal projects.
One of the best things about this neighborhood? The green spaces. If you like chilling in the sun, going for a post-class jog, or reading under a tree, the Parc de la Rhônelle will become your go-to hangout spot.
For sports lovers, the area is packed with gyms, sports fields, and outdoor workout spaces.
Rent? Much cheaper than the city center, meaning you can afford a bigger apartment or a stylish shared flat without stretching your budget.
Prouvy-Rouvignies: The ultimate student-friendly zone
If you want affordable rent, modern apartments, and a prime location, Prouvy-Rouvignies is your best bet. This neighborhood is booming with students thanks to its brand-new, well-equipped, and budget-friendly housing options.
The biggest advantage? You’re right next to the university campuses. No long commutes—just wake up and walk to class.
Even if you need to travel across the city, the tram, bus, and train connections make getting anywhere quick and easy.
Another plus? Internships and job opportunities. Valenciennes is becoming a major business hub, with big companies like Toyota, Alstom, and Bombardier setting up shop nearby.
La Sentinelle: Quiet, peaceful, and well-connected
Need a quiet place to focus and unwind, but don’t want to feel isolated? La Sentinelle is the perfect balance. It’s green, calm, and super well-connected.
Housing options? Amazing. Instead of a tiny city-center studio, you can find a spacious shared house with a living room, a big kitchen, and even a backyard—perfect for summer BBQs.
Nature lovers will love Parc naturel régional Scarpe-Escaut, just around the corner. Whether you’re into jogging, long walks, or simply escaping the urban rush, this place has you covered.
And don’t worry about getting around—the transport network is solid, so getting to the city center, campus, or even a weekend trip is easy.
La Sentinelle: Quiet, peaceful, and well-connected
Need a quiet place to focus and unwind, but don’t want to feel isolated? La Sentinelle is the perfect balance. It’s green, calm, and super well-connected.
Housing options? Amazing. Instead of a tiny city-center studio, you can find a spacious shared house with a living room, a big kitchen, and even a backyard—perfect for summer BBQs.
Nature lovers will love Parc naturel régional Scarpe-Escaut, just around the corner. Whether you’re into jogging, long walks, or simply escaping the urban rush, this place has you covered.
And don’t worry about getting around—the transport network is solid, so getting to the city center, campus, or even a weekend trip is easy.
Le Vignoble: The perfect mix of city and nature
If you love green spaces but don’t want to sacrifice urban energy, Le Vignoble is your best pick. Located south of Valenciennes, this area balances nature and city life.
Its main highlight? The Étang du Vignoble. Whether it’s for a post-class walk, a picnic with friends, or a sunset workout, this waterfront area is a hidden gem.
Housing here is diverse—from modern studios to large shared houses with gardens. Plus, rents are lower than in the city center.
And if you have a car (or plan to get one), parking is way easier and often free.
Dutemple & Nungesser: The rising hotspots
Love up-and-coming areas? Dutemple and Nungesser are where it’s at. These neighborhoods are growing fast, with new apartments, modern spaces, and a fresh, young vibe.
It’s a mix of old and new—with small restaurants, local shops, and a growing student population.
Best part? It’s affordable. Rent is lower than in the center, but the newer housing options often come with perks like balconies, shared spaces, and better layouts.
Getting around is easy too—buses, trams, and major roads make moving between neighborhoods quick and stress-free.
Your perfect student residence in Valenciennes
Struggling to find student housing in Valenciennes? Stop searching, we’ve got you covered! UXCO Student offers more than just a place to live—it’s a real community where you can study, chill, and meet new people.
Our Lucien Jonas student residence is the ideal mix of comfort, modernity, and social life. Located close to the campuses, well-connected by public transport, and designed for students who want more than just a dorm room.
- Fully furnished (cozy sleeping area, functional kitchenette, private bathroom, study space)
- All-inclusive rent (WiFi, electricity, water—no extra costs!)
- Common spaces (coworking areas, a fitness zone, a game room, shared kitchen)
- Events and activities throughout the year
Whether you’re more of a cozy studio vibe or all about chill shared living, you’ve got plenty of options.
