Things To Do
in Fontainebleau
Fontainebleau is a historic town just south of Paris famed for its grand château and expansive forest. The Château de Fontainebleau, a former royal residence, hosts centuries of French art, architecture, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The town center exudes classic French charm with markets, cafés, and boutiques, all set beside the surrounding greenery.
Surrounded by the vast Fontainebleau Forest, it’s a prime base for outdoor adventures and easy day trips to the capital.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Fontainebleau and check into your charming hotel. Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, embark on a guided tour of the stunning Château de Fontainebleau, immersing yourself in its rich history and opulent architecture.
After exploring the château, stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens that surround it, taking in the serenity of the classical sculptures and fountains. Stop for lunch at a bistro nearby, tasting regional French cuisine. Spend the afternoon visiting the Musée de la Renaissance to admire art and artifacts from the Renaissance period.
As the evening approaches, find a quaint restaurant in the town center and indulge in a traditional French dinner, savoring local specialties. After your meal, wander the picturesque streets of Fontainebleau, appreciating the illuminated buildings and lively atmosphere. End your day with a glass of wine at a local wine bar, reflecting on your first day in this enchanting town.
Begin your day with a refreshing walk in the Forest of Fontainebleau, renowned for its scenic trails and massive boulders. Enjoy the tranquility of nature and watch for the local wildlife as you breathe in the fresh air. Pack a breakfast picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning surroundings.
Return to the town for lunch and then visit a local market, where you can sample artisanal foods and perhaps even purchase some items to take home. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming shops and boutiques, immersing yourself in the unique local culture. Don't miss out on tasting some of the region's famous cheeses and wines.
As the sun sets, find a table at a restaurant with a terrace to enjoy dinner al fresco style. The town's culinary scene offers a variety of delights, from classic French dishes to modern gastronomy. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Seine River, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and reflecting on your adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥐Breakfast at bakery | $4-8 |
| 🚇Public transport ticket (one-way) | $2-4 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture
- World-famous forest for outdoor activities
- Proximity to Paris and easy day trips
- Charming town center with cafés and markets
- Limited nightlife and late-night options
- Crowds during peak season
- Some attractions can be pricey
- Seasonal closures in August for certain shops
- "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.
- "Je voudrais..." - I would like...
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un restaurant ?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
Places to Visit in Fontainebleau
Visit one of these nice places.
Majestic stone façades and grand staircases, ideal for architectural photography.
Formal, symmetrical gardens with fountains and seasonal blooms for classic garden shots.
A quaint rustic village within the chateau grounds, perfect for romantic, pastoral photos.
Iconic sandstone formations and wooded paths—great for landscape and nature photography.
Historic square with charming façades and daily life as a backdrop.
Food in Fontainebleau
Fontainebleau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rabbit slow-cooked with mushrooms and cream, a rustic favorite in local bistros.
Must-Try!
Hearty beef stew with vegetables, a comforting regional classic.
Caramelized apple tart, a staple dessert in local patisseries.
Fresh pastries from neighborhood bakeries, perfect with a coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering cheeses, produce, bread, pastries and regional specialties.
Seasonal stalls around Place Napoléon featuring crepes, galettes, and quick local bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Bonjour when entering shops or restaurants; use please and thank you (s'il vous plaît, merci).
French is preferred; making an effort with a few phrases is appreciated.
Follow posted rules, respect photo restrictions, and supervise children in delicate areas.
Safety
Tipping in Fontainebleau
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is appreciated but not always included; rounding up or a 5-10% tip is common in sit-down restaurants if service is good.
Cards are widely accepted, contactless payments are common, and cash is useful in smaller establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming gardens make for pleasant walks and photo opportunities.
Warm days with longer hours; forest trails provide shade. Stay hydrated and plan visits for cooler mornings or evenings.
Crimson and gold foliage light up the forest; great for dramatic landscapes, though rain is possible.
Cool to cold with occasional frost; castle interiors are cozy and atmospheric, but daylight hours are shorter.
Fontainebleau at Night
Hiking in Fontainebleau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic bouldering areas with scenic forest trails and rock features.
Forest trails leading to sandstone viewpoints and natural features.
Water-side walking routes and forest paths through the Fontainebleau forest.
Airports
How to reach Fontainebleau by plane.
Approx. 40-60 minutes by car or train; good connections to Fontainebleau.
Approximately 1 hour by car/train; major international hub.
Further away but an option for low-cost carriers; ~1.5-2 hours by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly French families and professionals connected to the town or commuting to Paris.
Presence of educational institutions and cultural centers attracting students.
Visitors from Paris and beyond, especially for the château and forest.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Fontainebleau forest is renowned for sandstone bouldering routes drawing climbers worldwide.
Several golf courses near the forest offering scenic rounds.
Equestrian centers provide riding through forest trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fontainebleau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many bistros offer vegetarian options; look for vegetable-forward dishes, cheeses, and eggs. Fresh produce is available at markets; don’t hesitate to ask for adjustments.