Villejuif is a vibrant city located in the southern suburbs of Paris, France. It offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. If you’re visiting Villejuif, here are some of the best places to explore and things to do in the city.
1. Paul Vaillant-Couturier Park
Start your journey with a visit to this beautiful park, which offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city. With lush greenery, walking paths, and picnic spots, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.
2. Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus
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Villejuif is home to the renowned Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, one of the leading cancer treatment and research centers in Europe. While it might not be a traditional tourist attraction, it’s worth noting due to its significance in the field of healthcare.
3. The Museum of National Resistance
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Learn about the city’s history at the Museum of National Resistance, which showcases the resistance movement during World War II. The museum exhibits artifacts, photographs, and documents that highlight the bravery and sacrifices made by the French resistance fighters.
4. City Hall and Saint-Cyr-Sainte-Julitte Church
Take a stroll through the city center and admire the beautiful Villejuif City Hall building, known for its architectural charm. Nearby, you’ll find the Saint-Cyr-Sainte-Julitte Church, a historic place of worship dating back to the 13th century.
5. Parc des Hautes-Bruyères
Explore the Parc des Hautes-Bruyères, a picturesque park with lakes, gardens, and walking trails. It’s an ideal spot for outdoor activities like jogging, picnicking, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk amidst nature.
6. Théâtre Romain Rolland
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If you’re interested in performing arts, catch a play or a concert at the Théâtre Romain Rolland. This cultural venue hosts a diverse range of theatrical productions, dance performances, and music concerts throughout the year.
7. Local Markets
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Villejuif boasts vibrant local markets where you can immerse yourself in the authentic French shopping experience. Visit Marché des Lozaits or Marché Caron for a wide variety of fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and other local delights.
8. Eglise Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes
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This beautiful neo-Gothic church is another architectural gem in Villejuif. Admire the intricate stained glass windows and ornate interior while appreciating the spiritual atmosphere.
9. Maison des Arts
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Visit the Maison des Arts, a cultural center that showcases contemporary art exhibitions, performances, and workshops. This dynamic venue fosters artistic expression and creativity, providing a platform for both established and emerging artists.
10. Léo-Lagrange Swimming Pool
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Cool off and have some fun at the Léo-Lagrange Swimming Pool. This modern facility offers various pools, slides, and water play areas, making it an enjoyable destination for families and water enthusiasts.
11. Parc Pablo Neruda
Explore Parc Pablo Neruda, a charming green space named after the famous Chilean poet. The park features a serene lake, lush vegetation, and picturesque walking paths, making it an excellent place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
12. Discover Local Cuisine
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Indulge in the flavors of Villejuif by exploring its culinary scene. Visit local restaurants, cafés, and bakeries to savor delicious French cuisine, from traditional dishes to contemporary gastronomic creations.
13. Cinema Le Studio
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Catch a movie at Cinema Le Studio, a cozy cinema showcasing a mix of mainstream and independent films. With its comfortable seating and intimate ambiance, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a cinematic experience.
14. Parc de la Ballastière
Escape to Parc de la Ballastière, a peaceful park that offers a serene environment for relaxation and outdoor activities. It features a picturesque lake where you can rent paddleboats or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the shores.
15. Explore Paris Metro Art
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Villejuif is part of the Paris Metro system, and many of its stations feature unique and artistic designs. Take a ride on the metro and appreciate the diverse artworks, sculptures, and architectural elements that adorn the stations along the way.
16. Shopping at Belle Épine
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If you’re in the mood for shopping, head to the nearby Belle Épine shopping center. This expansive mall offers a wide range of retail stores, fashion boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment options.
17. Arboretum de l’École d’Horticulture
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Visit the Arboretum de l’École d’Horticulture, a botanical garden that showcases a wide variety of plant species. Take a leisurely stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds, and learn about different plants and their ecological significance.
18. Jardin des Sénateurs
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Visit Jardin des Sénateurs, a serene public garden with beautifully manicured lawns, flowerbeds, and fountains. It’s a peaceful spot to relax, read a book, or have a picnic surrounded by nature.
19. Cultural Events at Espace Culturel André Malraux
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Check out the diverse cultural events hosted at Espace Culturel André Malraux. From art exhibitions and theater performances to live music concerts and dance shows, there’s always something exciting happening at this cultural hub.
20. Gustave Roussy Park
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Adjacent to the Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, you’ll find the Gustave Roussy Park. This green space offers walking trails, benches, and open areas where you can enjoy a peaceful break or engage in outdoor activities.
21. Villejuif Market
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Experience the vibrant local atmosphere by visiting the Villejuif Market. Explore the stalls selling fresh produce, regional specialties, clothing, accessories, and more. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with residents.
22. Parc Pablo Picasso
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Another lovely park in Villejuif, Parc Pablo Picasso, offers a beautiful setting for outdoor activities. Enjoy a leisurely walk, have a picnic, or play games with friends and family amidst the park’s tranquil ambiance.
23. Wine Tasting
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France is renowned for its wine, and Villejuif is located close to several wine regions. Take a short trip to nearby vineyards, such as the Burgundy or Champagne regions, and indulge in wine tasting tours to savor the country’s exquisite wines.
24. Local Cafés and Patisseries
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Take the time to relax and enjoy the local café culture in Villejuif. Sit at a sidewalk café, sip a cup of coffee, and savor freshly baked pastries from charming patisseries scattered throughout the city.
25. Villejuif Bio Park
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Discover the Villejuif Bio Park, a green space dedicated to preserving biodiversity and promoting environmental awareness. Take a guided tour to learn about the local flora and fauna, and gain insights into sustainable practices.
26. Street Art Tour
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Embark on a self-guided or guided street art tour in Villejuif. The city is known for its vibrant urban art scene, with colorful murals and graffiti adorning walls and buildings. Explore the streets to admire the creativity and talent of local and international artists.
27. Yoga and Wellness
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Join a yoga or wellness class in Villejuif to relax and rejuvenate. Several studios and wellness centers offer a variety of classes, such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness, providing a serene escape from the daily routine.
28. Gourmet Experiences
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Indulge in gourmet experiences in Villejuif by exploring local specialty shops, bakeries, and delicatessens. Sample regional cheeses, chocolates, wines, and other culinary delights to treat your taste buds.
29. Le Stade Bauer
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Football enthusiasts can catch a match or visit Le Stade Bauer, a historic football stadium located near Villejuif. Immerse yourself in the excitement of the game and cheer for the local team.
30. Escape Games
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Challenge your problem-solving skills by participating in an escape game. Villejuif and the surrounding areas have various escape room venues offering thrilling and immersive experiences for individuals and groups.
31. Open-Air Markets
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Experience the lively atmosphere of open-air markets in Villejuif. Visit Marché des Lozaits or Marché du Centre to browse through stalls offering fresh produce, flowers, clothing, handicrafts, and more.
32. Visit the Nearby Parc Montsouris
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Take a short trip to Parc Montsouris, a stunning park located in Paris’ 14th arrondissement. This English-style garden features beautiful lawns, a lake, bridges, and a charming café, providing a serene retreat in the heart of the city.
33. Horseback Riding
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Enjoy a unique outdoor activity by going horseback riding in the surrounding countryside. Several equestrian centers near Villejuif offer horse riding lessons and guided trails, allowing you to explore the scenic landscapes on horseback.
34. Attend Cultural Festivals
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Check the local event calendar for cultural festivals and celebrations taking place in Villejuif. These events often showcase traditional music, dance, art, and cuisine, providing a vibrant glimpse into the city’s cultural heritage.
35. Le Parc des Esselières
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Discover Le Parc des Esselières, a lovely park with green spaces, walking paths, and recreational facilities. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic, a leisurely stroll, or engaging in outdoor activities like frisbee or badminton.
36. Bowling and Billiards
Have a fun-filled evening at the bowling alley or billiards hall in Villejuif. Challenge your friends or family to a friendly game and enjoy some quality time together.
37. Parc Départemental des Cormailles
Venture to Parc Départemental des Cormailles, a large park with diverse landscapes, including meadows, woodlands, and ponds. Enjoy a leisurely walk, have a picnic, or go bird-watching in this peaceful natural setting.
38. Volunteer Opportunities
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Connect with the local community by participating in volunteer activities. Look for volunteer organizations or initiatives in Villejuif where you can contribute your time and skills to make a positive impact.
39. Le Petit Train de Villejuif
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Hop on Le Petit Train de Villejuif, a small train that takes you on a scenic tour around the city. Enjoy a leisurely ride while learning about Villejuif’s history and landmarks.
40. Parc des Hautes-Bruyères Farm
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Visit the Parc des Hautes-Bruyères Farm, located within the park grounds. Explore the farm and interact with the animals, learn about sustainable farming practices, and even participate in workshops or demonstrations.
41. Picnic at Parc de la Roseraie
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Enjoy a delightful picnic at Parc de la Roseraie, a charming park known for its beautiful rose garden. Admire the vibrant colors and intoxicating scents of the roses while savoring a meal surrounded by natural beauty.
42. Le Vaisseau Vert
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Discover Le Vaisseau Vert, a unique cultural and artistic space in Villejuif. This former factory has been transformed into a creative hub, hosting exhibitions, workshops, concerts, and theater performances.
43. Day Trip to Versailles
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Take a day trip to the magnificent Palace of Versailles, located a short distance from Villejuif. Marvel at the opulent palace, explore the stunning gardens, and delve into French history and grandeur.
44.Sports Activities at Stade Didier Deschamps
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Engage in sports activities at Stade Didier Deschamps, a sports complex offering various facilities such as tennis courts, soccer fields, and running tracks. Stay active and enjoy outdoor recreation in a well-maintained setting.
45. Cinéma Le Gérard Philipe
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Watch the latest movies at Cinéma Le Gérard Philipe, a local cinema that showcases a diverse range of films, including French and international releases. Sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in the world of cinema.
46. Discover Street Markets
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Explore the vibrant street markets in Villejuif, such as the marché de Léo Lagrange or the marché de la Fontaine aux Lions. Browse through stalls selling fresh produce, regional specialties, clothing, accessories, and more, while experiencing the lively atmosphere of local markets.
Places and Things To Do