Things To Do
in Bois-Colombes
Bois-Colombes is a leafy suburban town just northwest of Paris, offering a calm residential atmosphere with easy access to the capital. The town sits along the western edge of the Seine, blending charming Haussmannian façades with modern cafés and green spaces. It is known for its tranquil streets, family-friendly amenities, and a strong sense of community.
Visitors enjoy a convenient base for exploring Paris while savoring a slower pace of suburban life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Bois-Colombes, taking in the charming architecture and vibrant local life. Visit the Parc des Impressionnistes, where you can enjoy a peaceful morning surrounded by nature and art installations. Stop by a local bakery to indulge in a freshly baked croissant or pain au chocolat with a cup of rich French coffee.
After lunch at a cozy café, delve into the history of the area by visiting the local museum, which showcases the town's rich past and its evolution over the years. Spend some time exploring the boutique shops along the main street, where you can find unique souvenirs and handcrafted goods. As the afternoon sun sets, relax in one of the local parks, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.
For dinner, treat yourself to a delightful meal at a traditional French bistro, where you can savor classic dishes like coq au vin or ratatouille. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Seine River, enjoying the twinkling lights reflecting on the water. End your day with a nightcap at a nearby wine bar, sampling some exquisite French wines.
Begin your day with a visit to the local art gallery, where you can appreciate the works of both established and emerging artists from the region. Participate in a morning workshop that focuses on painting or pottery, allowing you to unleash your creative side. Enjoy a light brunch at a nearby café, surrounded by the artistic ambiance of the area.
Explore the local theater and catch a rehearsal or performance, immersing yourself in the cultural scene of Bois-Colombes. Visit the historical sites scattered throughout the town, including the stunning Church of Saint-Denis, which boasts beautiful stained glass windows. Spend your afternoon at a local artisan market, where you can interact with vendors and learn about their crafts.
Dine at a trendy fusion restaurant that combines French cuisine with international flavors, offering a unique gastronomic experience. After dinner, attend a live music event at a local venue, where you can enjoy a variety of genres performed by talented artists. Wind down your day with a stroll through the illuminated streets, taking in the vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🧀Grocery staple | $8-20 |
| 🚌Public transport single ride | $2-3 |
| 🏨One-night hotel | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Paris with a calmer, residential vibe
- Access to scenic Seine views and green spaces
- Good dining options with authentic Parisian cafés
- Walkable town center and pleasant street life
- Fewer large nightlife venues within town limits
- Transit to central Paris may require a short ride
- Markets and services can vary in size by season
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est..." - Where is...
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Bois-Colombes
Visit one of these nice places.
Open views of the river with Paris skyline on clear days and stunning reflections at golden hour.
Iconic Parisian street with elegant balconies and uniform stone façades ideal for architectural photography.
Mature trees and seasonal blooms provide colorful backdrops for portraits and wide-angle nature shots.
Historic square with charming municipal architecture and seasonal plantings for candid street photography.
Food in Bois-Colombes
Bois-Colombes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic toasted ham and cheese sandwich with melted cheese on top; widely found in cafés and brasseries around Bois-Colombes.
Must-Try!
A quintessential Parisian dish of a juicy steak served with crisp fries; best enjoyed at a traditional bistro.
French onion soup topped with a gratin of cheese; a comforting starter at many local brasseries.
Caramelized apple tart with a buttery crust; available at local patisseries and cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and ready-to-eat specialties straight from local growers and artisans.
Casual stalls and small eateries along central streets offering crepes, pastries, and quick bites for a light lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Bonjour' (and 'Bonsoir' in the evening) when entering shops or cafés; a handshake is common in formal settings.
Use 's'il vous plaît' and 'merci' frequently; attempt basic French phrases where possible.
Be punctual for appointments; wait your turn in lines; eating on public transport is generally discouraged.
Casual but neat attire is typical; keep noise levels reasonable in residential areas, especially in evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Bois-Colombes
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service charges are often included as 'service compris' on the bill. If not included, a tip of 5-10% is customary for good service in restaurants and cafés.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Cash is useful for markets and small shops. Contactless payments are common in most venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with plenty of outdoor cafés and markets; occasional showers; stay hydrated and seek shade along the riverfront.
Mild to cool temperatures with colorful foliage; ideal for long walks and photography in golden light; bring a light jacket.
Cool to chilly with short daylight hours; indoor attractions and cozy brasseries are good options; occasional frost.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming trees; excellent for outdoor dining, park strolls, and city photography.
Bois-Colombes at Night
Hiking in Bois-Colombes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive forested area just west of Paris with varied trails, lakes, and easy day hikes.
Rural-park landscapes with scenic routes, viewpoints, and shaded paths ideal for longer walks.
Nearby green space offering gentle trails and a peaceful setting for outdoor strolls.
Airports
How to reach Bois-Colombes by plane.
Major international airport located northeast of Paris with train and road links to Bois-Colombes; convenient for international travel and connections.
Southern Paris hub offering many European and domestic flights; accessible via train and road from Bois-Colombes.
Smaller airport serving budget carriers; longer transfer times to Paris region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly town with schools, parks, and safe streets.
Commuters who work in Paris or nearby business districts.
Proximity to Paris universities attracts students for part-time work and study.
Quiet neighborhoods and accessible amenities support a comfortable lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played at amateur and school levels across the Île-de-France region.
Local clubs and public courts popular for summer play.
Active community with bike paths along the Seine and in nearby parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bois-Colombes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in local bistros; look for vegetable, cheese, and egg dishes, or request sans viande in traditional plates.