Cachan is a charming city located in the southern suburbs of Paris, France. While it may not be as widely known as some of its neighboring cities, Cachan offers a delightful mix of historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Cachan:
1. Église Sainte-Germaine
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Start your exploration of Cachan with a visit to the Église Sainte-Germaine, a beautiful Romanesque church dating back to the 12th century. Admire its stunning architecture and intricate stained glass windows, which depict scenes from biblical stories.
2. Parc Raspail
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Enjoy a leisurely stroll or a picnic in Parc Raspail. This peaceful green space provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city. The park features well-manicured lawns, beautiful flower beds, and a small pond where you can relax and unwind.
3. Maison des Examens
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History enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Maison des Examens. Originally built in the 1930s as a military hospital, it now serves as a center for conducting exams. The building’s architecture is worth admiring, and you can take a walk around the surrounding grounds.
4. La Plume Noire
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Book lovers should pay a visit to La Plume Noire, a cozy independent bookstore in Cachan. Browse through their collection of books, including a wide range of literature, non-fiction, and children’s books. The store also hosts occasional author readings and events.
5. Aquapol
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If you’re looking for a fun activity, head to Aquapol. This modern swimming pool complex offers various pools and water slides for both adults and children. It’s a great place to cool off, have some family fun, or even participate in aqua fitness classes.
6. Le Carreau
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Located in the neighboring city of Cachan, Le Carreau is an impressive cultural center. It hosts a range of events, including art exhibitions, theater performances, music concerts, and film screenings. Check their schedule to see what’s happening during your visit.
7. Walk along the Bièvre River
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Take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Bièvre River, which flows through Cachan. The river is surrounded by lush greenery and provides a scenic route for a relaxing stroll. It’s a perfect spot to escape the urban environment and connect with nature.
8. Local Cuisine
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Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in delicious French cuisine while in Cachan. Explore the local restaurants and cafes, where you can savor traditional dishes like Coq au Vin, Ratatouille, and Crème Brûlée. Additionally, you can visit the nearby Marché Léo-Lagrange to discover fresh produce, regional specialties, and local products.
9. Musée de la Photographie
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Photography enthusiasts should make their way to the Musée de la Photographie, located in the nearby city of Gentilly. This museum showcases a collection of historical and contemporary photographs, providing insight into the art and evolution of photography.
10. Cachan Market
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Experience the lively atmosphere of the Cachan Market, held on Sundays. Stroll through the stalls filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, and other local products. It’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with vendors, and perhaps purchase some ingredients for a picnic.
11. Parc de Sceaux
Just a short distance from Cachan, you’ll find Parc de Sceaux, a magnificent park renowned for its extensive gardens and historic château. Take a leisurely walk through the park’s vast lawns, ornamental ponds, and formal gardens, and be sure to visit the Grand Canal and the beautiful Orangerie.
12. Maison des Arts
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For art lovers, a visit to the Maison des Arts in Cachan is a must. This contemporary art center hosts exhibitions, installations, and performances by local and international artists. It’s a great place to explore modern artistic expressions and engage with the local art scene.
13. Explore nearby Paris
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As Cachan is conveniently located in the southern suburbs of Paris, you have easy access to the incredible attractions of the French capital. Hop on a train or take a short drive to explore iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Montmartre.
14. Château de Sceaux
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Located within Parc de Sceaux, the Château de Sceaux is a magnificent 17th-century castle that once belonged to the Colbert family. Explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the château and learn about its rich history. The castle also houses the Musée de l’Ile-de-France, which displays art and artifacts related to the region’s history.
15. Visit the local cafés and bakeries
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Take some time to explore the charming cafés and bakeries in Cachan. Enjoy a leisurely cup of coffee or indulge in a freshly baked croissant or pastry. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local café culture and sample some delicious French treats.
16. Le Petit Robinson
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This children’s park in Cachan is a great place to bring your little ones. With playgrounds, slides, and various play structures, it provides a safe and enjoyable environment for kids to run, play, and make new friends. It’s an ideal spot for families to spend a fun-filled afternoon.
17. Maison des Jeunes et de la Culture (MJC)
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Check out the programs and events at the Maison des Jeunes et de la Culture in Cachan. This community center offers a range of activities for people of all ages, including workshops, classes, exhibitions, and performances. It’s a great place to engage with the local community and participate in cultural and recreational activities.
18. Day trip to Fontainebleau
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Cachan’s location also allows for easy access to other nearby attractions. Consider taking a day trip to the enchanting town of Fontainebleau, located about an hour away. Explore the stunning Château de Fontainebleau, known for its grand architecture and rich history, and take a stroll through the beautiful Fontainebleau Forest.
19. Le Prieuré Saint-Michel-du-Bas
Explore the historic Le Prieuré Saint-Michel-du-Bas, a former priory dating back to the 12th century. This well-preserved architectural gem features a Romanesque-style church and beautiful gardens. Take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history and admire the medieval charm of the priory.
20. Les Catacombes de Paris
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For an underground adventure, visit Les Catacombes de Paris, located within a short distance from Cachan. Descend into the underground tunnels and explore the eerie ossuary that houses the remains of millions of Parisians. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the city’s dark past.
21. Musee d’Orsay
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Take a short trip to Paris and visit the renowned Musee d’Orsay, home to an extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. Admire masterpieces by artists such as Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, and Degas. The museum is housed in a former railway station, adding to its unique charm.
22. Bois de Vincennes
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Enjoy some outdoor recreation at Bois de Vincennes, a sprawling park located on the outskirts of Paris. Take a boat ride on the lake, visit the beautiful Parc Floral de Paris, or simply relax amidst nature. The park also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year.
23. Le Bistrot du Coin
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End your day with a delightful meal at Le Bistrot du Coin, a cozy restaurant offering classic French cuisine with a modern twist. Savor delectable dishes prepared with locally sourced ing
Places and Things To Do