Things To Do
in Ézanville

Ézanville is a small suburban commune in the Val-d'Oise department just north of Paris, offering a quiet mix of residential streets and green spaces. Its location in the Île-de-France region makes it an easy base for day trips into the capital while retaining a village feel. The town is surrounded by rural lanes, parks, and nearby historic sites, providing a balance of accessibility and calm.

Expect a warm French welcome with plenty of outdoor spaces and a straightforward pathway into the countryside.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Discovering Ézanville
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Ézanville, soaking in the local architecture and ambiance. Visit the local market to sample fresh produce and baked goods, mingling with friendly vendors. Enjoy a coffee at a quaint café as you immerse yourself in the morning atmosphere.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the Parc des Coteaux d'Avron, where you can enjoy a picnic and take in the natural beauty of the area. Explore the various walking trails and enjoy the serene environment that this park has to offer. Consider visiting a nearby historical site or museum to learn more about the region's rich history.

evening
:

As the sun sets, indulge in a delightful dinner at a local bistro, where you can savor traditional French cuisine. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, appreciating Ézanville's charming nightlife. Unwind at a local wine bar, sampling exquisite wines and engaging in conversation with locals.

day 2
Cultural Excursion
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the Église Saint-Paterne, marveling at its architectural beauty and the serenity of its interior. Spend some time in quiet reflection or light a candle as a gesture of peace. Afterward, enjoy breakfast at a nearby bakery, tasting the exquisite pastries uniquely found in France.

afternoon
:

Dedicate your afternoon to exploring local galleries and artisan shops showcasing the work of local artists and craftsmen. Engage with artists to learn more about their inspiration and creative process. Pick up a unique souvenir that captures the essence of Ézanville for your collection.

evening
:

As evening descends, dine at a restaurant known for its local specialties, enjoying dishes made with ingredients sourced from nearby farms. Relish in the flavors while mingling with locals who are passionate about their culinary heritage. Conclude your night with a visit to a local theater for a captivating performance or film screening.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$15-25
🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range)$40-70
Coffee or tea$2-5
🚇Public transit day pass$7-12
🧺Groceries for a simple dinner for two$8-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to Paris while enjoying a calm suburban setting
  • Green spaces and easy day trips to historic sites
  • Limited nightlife within Ézanville itself
  • Public transport to central Paris may require a transfer
  • "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
  • "Bonsoir" - Good evening
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Où sont les toilettes?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Ézanville

Visit one of these nice places.

Riverside Oise Path

Golden-hour reflections along the river with boats and willows; ideal for tranquil landscape shots.

Abbaye Royaumont, Asnières-sur-Oise

Gothic arches and serene gardens; best at sunrise or in diffused light.

Montmorency Forest Lookout

Elevated vantage points over the forest canopy and valley with soft morning light.

Ézanville Town Hall and Old Town Streets

Charming stone facades and a quiet church tower ideal for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ézanville

Located just north of Paris, Ézanville shares in the region's classic French cuisine: simple, seasonal dishes prepared with care in cozy bistros and bakeries.

Ézanville Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Steak frites

A classic French favorite: tender steak served with crispy fries and a herb butter or pepper sauce.

Must-Try!

Duck confit

Slow-cooked duck leg with crispy skin, typically served with potatoes and seasonal greens.

Ratatouille

A vibrant vegetable medley from Provence that travels well in bistros for vegetarian diners.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Farmers Market

Weekly market offering seasonal produce, cheeses, breads, and ready-to-eat snacks.

Street Food Corners

Crepes, sandwiches, pastries and other quick bites available near parks and town squares.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ézanville experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters, warm summers, and rainfall spread throughout the year. Average highs range from the upper 30s°F (around 3-4°C in winter to around 25-28°C in summer), with cooler evenings year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Begin conversations with 'Bonjour' (and 'Bonsoir' in the evening); use 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' when appropriate.

Politeness and queues

Polite manners and orderly queuing are valued; keep voices moderate in public spaces and cafes.

Dining etiquette

Keep hands visible, use utensils properly, and say 's'il vous plaît' and 'merci' regularly.

Safety Guide

Safety

Take normal travel precautions: guard valuables in crowded transit areas, be aware of pickpockets in tourist-heavy spots, and stay in well-lit, populated areas at night. Have emergency numbers handy and know the location of the nearest pharmacy and medical facility.

Tipping in Ézanville

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In France, service is often included (service compris) in restaurants; a small extra tip (around 5-10%) is appreciated for good service, especially in bars and cafes. Cash or card are widely accepted; check the bill to see if service is already included.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long daylight hours and warm temperatures; stay hydrated, enjoy parks and riverside areas, and be prepared for occasional afternoon thunderstorms.

Autumn

Crisp air and autumn colors brighten rural lanes; harvest markets are plentiful and evenings cool down.

Winter

Cold but usually manageable; frost and rare snow possible; cozy cafes and indoor cultural events provide refuge.

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming trees and gardens; plan for rain showers and frequent outdoor seating opportunities.

Nightlife Guide

Ézanville at Night

Ézanville itself offers a quiet nightlife with cozy cafés and small wine bars. Nearby towns in the Île-de-France region provide additional options for live music, cinema, and market evenings. Weekend markets occasionally feature live acoustic sets or small performances, especially in the warmer months.

Hiking in Ézanville

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Montmorency Forest Trails

Several loops through pine and mixed woodlands with viewpoints over the surrounding valleys.

Vexin Français Regional Park Trails

Several scenic routes through rural villages, farmland, and historic sites in the western Val-d'Oise area.

Airports

How to reach Ézanville by plane.

Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

Major international hub located to the northeast of Paris; about a 30-60 minute drive depending on traffic, with rail connections via RER and TGV services.

Paris Orly Airport (ORY)

Large international airport south of Paris; accessible by road and public transport, often used for domestic and European flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is walkable with compact streets, cafes, and a central park. For longer trips and countryside exploration, a car or regional transit is helpful, but many nearby sights are reachable by bike or a short drive.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families choose Ézanville for its quiet streets, schools, and access to parks.

Commuters

Residents who travel to Paris or larger towns for work, often using regional trains or cars.

Students

Nearby towns and universities attract students who contribute to a youthful, active atmosphere.

Retirees

A tranquil community draws retirees who value safety, greenspace, and easy access to urban centers.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport across France, with local clubs and community leagues in the region.

Cycling

Popular for both recreation and training, with scenic routes through the Val-d'Oise countryside.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in the Île-de-France area can be heavy during weekday peak hours, especially on routes toward Paris. Regional rail and bus services provide alternatives, and car rental is common for exploring the countryside. Plan for potential delays in bad weather or during events in nearby towns.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ézanville.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are common; look for vegetable-forward dishes and salads, and ask about stock and sauces to avoid meat-based ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

France provides universal healthcare; locals typically use a general practitioner network and pharmacies. The nearest hospitals and larger medical centers are in nearby towns such as Argenteuil, Pontoise, or Saint-Denis, with emergency services available 24/7. Carry your health insurance card (carte vitale) if visiting and consider travel insurance for extra coverage.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide