Saint-Maur-des-Fossés is a charming city located in the eastern suburbs of Paris, France. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful natural surroundings, the city offers a delightful mix of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Saint-Maur-des-Fossés:
Start your exploration of the city by visiting the impressive Château de Saint-Maur. This historical castle, built in the 17th century, is surrounded by picturesque gardens and features stunning architecture. Take a leisurely stroll through the grounds, admire the beautiful façade, and learn about the castle’s fascinating history.
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature at Parc de Saint-Maur. This expansive park offers lush green spaces, peaceful walking paths, and a serene lake. Enjoy a picnic, rent a paddleboat, or simply relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Musée de Saint-Maur – Villa Médicis. Housed in a beautiful mansion, this museum showcases an impressive collection of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The museum often hosts temporary exhibitions that highlight different artistic movements and styles.
Explore the religious heritage of Saint-Maur-des-Fossés by visiting the Église Saint-Nicolas. This stunning church, constructed in the 12th century, features Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass windows. Step inside to admire the ornate interior and experience a moment of tranquility.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the picturesque Marne River, which runs through the city. The riverbanks offer scenic views, charming cafés, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as jogging or cycling. Admire the elegant houses and beautiful bridges that line the river, creating a postcard-worthy setting.
After a day of exploring, treat yourself to a delicious meal at Le Comptoir du Malt. This local brewery and restaurant offers a wide selection of craft beers and a menu featuring traditional French cuisine with a contemporary twist. Indulge in hearty dishes and savor the flavors while enjoying the cozy atmosphere.
For a relaxing and scenic experience, head to the Bords de Marne Promenade. This riverside path stretches for several kilometers and offers stunning views of the Marne River and its surrounding nature. Take a leisurely stroll, rent a bike, or simply find a peaceful spot to sit and enjoy the tranquil ambiance.
Experience the lively atmosphere of the Guinguette de l’Île du Martin-Pêcheur, located on an island in the Marne River. This traditional French riverside tavern offers a unique blend of food, drinks, and entertainment. Enjoy a delicious meal while being entertained by live music or take part in one of the dancing events organized throughout the year.
If you’re a fan of performing arts, make sure to catch a show at the Théâtre de Saint-Maur. This cultural venue hosts a diverse range of theatrical performances, including plays, comedies, musicals, and dance shows. Check the schedule and immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene of Saint-Maur-des-Fossés.
If you’re visiting during the winter months or enjoy ice sports, head to the Saint-Maur Ice Rink. Lace up your skates and glide across the ice in this modern facility. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skater, the ice rink offers a fun and active experience for people of all ages.
Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Marne River with Les Rives de la Marne. Hop aboard one of their guided cruises and admire the beautiful landscapes while learning about the history and heritage of the region. It’s a great way to relax, take in the sights, and gain a different perspective of Saint-Maur-des-Fossés.
If you’re an avid golfer or looking to try your hand at the sport, head to Golf Blue Green Saint-Maur. This 18-hole golf course provides a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings and test your swing on this well-maintained course.
Cool off and enjoy a refreshing swim at the Piscine Municipale de Saint-Maur. This public swimming pool offers both indoor and outdoor facilities, making it a great option no matter the weather. Whether you want to do laps, relax in the sun, or have fun with the family, this pool provides a perfect aquatic retreat.
Catch a movie at Cinéma Le Lido, a local cinema that showcases a wide range of films, including the latest releases, independent productions, and international favorites. Sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in the world of cinema while enjoying the comfortable seating and quality audiovisual experience.
Embrace nature at Parc des Bordes, a tranquil park that offers lush greenery, peaceful walking paths, and charming picnic spots. With its serene ambiance and well-maintained grounds, this park provides an ideal setting for a leisurely stroll, a jog, or a family outing surrounded by nature.
If you happen to be in Saint-Maur-des-Fossés during late August, don’t miss the Fête de la Saint-Louis. This lively festival celebrates the patron saint of the city with parades, concerts, street performances, and fireworks. Experience the vibrant atmosphere, join in the festivities, and get a taste of the local traditions and culture.
Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the Les Bords de la Marne, a picturesque riverside path that spans several kilometers. Enjoy the scenic views of the river, admire the charming houseboats and boathouses, and soak up the peaceful ambiance of this idyllic setting. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.
Wine lovers can also explore Les Caves de Saint-Maur, a wine shop offering a wide selection of French wines, spirits, and gourmet products. Browse the shelves, seek expert advice, and perhaps find a bottle or two to take home as a delightful souvenir or a gift for friends and family.
Indulge in a culinary adventure at Les Halles de Saint-Maur, a vibrant food market where you can find a variety of fresh produce, seafood, artisanal products, and delectable treats. Explore the different stalls, sample local delicacies, and soak in the lively atmosphere of this gastronomic hub.
Unwind in the peaceful surroundings of Parc de l’Abbaye, a charming park known for its beautiful gardens, shaded paths, and tranquil atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely picnic, a moment of relaxation, or even a yoga session amidst nature.
For music enthusiasts, a visit to Le Rocher de Palmer is a must. This concert venue and cultural center located in Cenon, near Saint-Maur-des-Fossés, hosts a diverse lineup of concerts, ranging from jazz and rock to world music and contemporary performances. Enjoy an evening of live music in an intimate setting and be a part of the vibrant music scene.
Experience a unique blend of opera and the serene Marne River with Péniche Opéra. This floating opera house presents captivating performances onboard a barge. Enjoy the enchanting melodies and powerful voices while being surrounded by the scenic beauty of the river. It’s a truly memorable experience for opera enthusiasts and those seeking a distinctive cultural experience.
Delve into the local history and heritage of Saint-Maur-des-Fossés at the Maison du Patrimoine. This heritage center offers exhibits and displays that showcase the city’s historical development, architectural styles, and cultural traditions. Learn about the evolution of the region and gain insights into the rich past that shaped Saint-Maur-des-Fossés into what it is today.
Just a short distance from Saint-Maur-des-Fossés, you’ll find Les Jardins d’Albert-Kahn in Boulogne-Billancourt. These stunning gardens provide a tranquil retreat with diverse landscapes, including Japanese, English, and French gardens. Stroll through the meticulously designed spaces, enjoy the serene ambiance, and discover the beautiful flora that surrounds you.
During the summer months, the city of Paris organizes an event called Paris Plages, where artificial beaches are created along the banks of the River Seine. These temporary beaches provide a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere with sun loungers, umbrellas, sand, and even swimming pools. It’s a unique experience to enjoy a beach-like setting right in the heart of the city.
Bois de Vincennes is a large park located on the eastern edge of Paris, and it offers several lakes where you can find small sandy areas or grassy patches that resemble beaches. Lac Daumesnil and Lac des Minimes are two popular spots where you can relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the waterfront.
While not traditional seaside beaches, there are certain sections along the Seine River where you can find sandy riverbanks that locals use for sunbathing and picnicking. One such area is the Île Saint-Germain in Issy-les-Moulineaux, southwest of Paris, which offers a small sandy beach along the river.
