Things To Do
in Compiègne
Compiègne is a historic town in northern France set on the Oise river and edged by rolling forests. It is famous for the Château de Compiègne, a former royal residence with elegant interiors and expansive gardens. The town blends brick-and-stone architecture, lively markets, and canal-side strolls with forest trails just outside the center.
Its convenient rail links to Paris and regional towns make it a practical base for exploring Picardy and the forested countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Compiègne and check into your hotel, soaking in the beauty of this historic French town. Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Oise River, enjoying the tranquil scenery and fresh air. Stop by a local café for a warm croissant and a cup of coffee as you plan your adventures.
Explore the sprawling Parc de Compiègne, once a favored hunting ground for French royalty. Gather around the grand Château de Compiègne, where you can discover its rich history and opulent interiors. Don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the beautiful gardens surrounding the chateau.
Dine at a charming local brasserie, where you can indulge in traditional French dishes paired with regional wines. After dinner, take a moonlit walk around the town center, where the beautifully lit buildings create a romantic atmosphere. Conclude your first day with a glass of cognac or a nightcap in a cozy bar.
Start your day with a visit to the Musée de la Figurine Historique, where you can admire the intricacies of historical miniatures. Engage with the fascinating exhibits that showcase different periods of history through these tiny figurines. A guided tour will enhance your understanding and appreciation for this unique art form.
Venture to the nearby Forest of Compiègne, an expansive wooded area perfect for hiking or cycling. Mark your trail with a visit to the Grand Traverse, where you can encounter breathtaking views and endemic wildlife. Enjoy a picnic lunch amid the serene backdrop of towering trees and chirping birds.
Return to Compiègne for a delightful dining experience at a local eatery known for its seasonal menu. As the sun sets, head to the Place de l'Hôtel de Ville to soak in the local culture, perhaps enjoying a free concert or city event. End your evening with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, decorated with twinkling lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚇One-way public transport | $2-3 |
| 🎟Movie ticket | $10-15 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range, per night) | $100-170 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich royal heritage and forest setting
- Excellent base for day trips to Picardy and Paris connections
- Smaller nightlife compared to big cities
- Less variety in restaurant options outside town center
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la gare?" - Where is the train station?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Je voudrais un café" - I would like a coffee
Places to Visit in Compiègne
Visit one of these nice places.
Renaissance-era palace with formal gardens and reflective water features ideal for grand exterior shots and interior details.
Elegant formal gardens and tree-lined avenues offering symmetrical compositions and seasonal color.
Historic bridge with archways and riverine views, perfect for sunset and blue-hour photography.
Impressive town hall façade and lively square scenes for architectural and street photography.
Food in Compiègne
Compiègne Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory crepe roll filled with ham, cheese, and spinach, typically finished with a light béchamel sauce.
Must-Try!
A traditional leek tart baked with the pungent Maroilles cheese, emblematic of Picardy.
A hearty regional stew of pork, sausage, cabbage, and root vegetables, ideal for cooler days.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic covered market in the city center offering fresh produce, cheese, meats, and regional specialties.
Casual bites, crepes, pastries, and quick lunch options from local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin with a polite 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir'; maintain eye contact and a calm tone.
Use courteous phrases, avoid loud conversations in public spaces, and say 's'il vous plaît' and 'merci'.
Keep hands on the table when eating, use utensils properly, and wait to be seated or acknowledged at tables.
Tipping is modest; avoid over-tipping in casual venues and follow local cues.
Safety
Tipping in Compiègne
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is usually included in higher-end places; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in cafés and casual restaurants.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always useful for small purchases; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blossoming trees in the forests; layer clothing and enjoy outdoor cafés and markets.
Long days with warm afternoons; stay hydrated and plan early mornings or late evenings for outdoor activities.
Colorful forest foliage and pleasant walking weather; great for landscape photography and forest hikes.
Cool to cold conditions with possible frost; enjoy festive markets and indoor cultural events.
Compiègne at Night
Hiking in Compiègne
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive woodland trails with varying difficulty and scenic viewpoints.
Lakeside loops suitable for easy day hikes and gentle walks.
Hilly routes offering longer hikes and panoramic views over the Oise valley.
Airports
How to reach Compiègne by plane.
Major international hub about 60-90 minutes by high-speed train or road from Compiègne.
Smaller airport offering regional flights; about 1.5-2 hours by road/train connections to Compiègne.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Presence of local colleges and cultural events attracts a youthful crowd.
Parks, playgrounds, and forest trails make it family-friendly.
A stable resident base contributing to a relaxed town rhythm.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular local sport with matches regularly scheduled on weekends.
Common activity in the forest and along river paths; local clubs organize rides.
The forest hosts riding centers and seasonal equestrian events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Compiègne.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most bistros offer vegetarian mains or can adapt plates; look for vegetable-forward dishes, cheese-based options, or pescatarian choices; many markets and cafés are happy to accommodate requests with a smile.