Things To Do
in Les Lilas
Les Lilas is a quiet, leafy commune just northeast of central Paris, blending village charm with easy city access. Its tree-lined streets, local markets, and small cafés create a relaxed pace away from the bustle of the city center. The town sits along convenient transit routes, making it a practical base for exploring Paris and the inner suburbs.
Visitors typically come for a friendly atmosphere, easy walks, and the chance to experience everyday life in a Parisian neighborhood.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the vibrant market of Les Lilas where local vendors display fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and pastries. Savor a warm croissant as you meander through the stalls, enjoying the lively atmosphere filled with the sounds of bargaining and laughter. Capture the essence of French daily life and perhaps pick up some ingredients for a picnic later.
After shopping, head to the nearby Parc des Buttes-Chaumont for a leisurely afternoon. Find a cozy spot to enjoy your picnic while soaking in the picturesque surroundings, with its rolling hills and stunning views of the city. Take a stroll around the park, discovering hidden nooks and beautiful sculptures that make this park truly enchanting.
As the sun sets, make your way to a local bistro for a traditional French dinner. Indulge in classic dishes, accompanied by a glass of wine, while enjoying warm conversations with friends or locals. Conclude your evening with a serene walk back through the charming streets, lights twinkling against the backdrop of historical buildings.
Begin your day by visiting the local art gallery, showcasing works from emerging French artists. Engage with the exhibits, which often feature a blend of contemporary ideas and traditional techniques, offering a unique perspective on modern French culture. Participate in a workshop or discussion, if available, to deepen your understanding of local artistic expressions.
Continue your cultural journey by stopping by the nearby Maison de la Culture, where an array of performances and exhibitions often takes place. Attend a matinee show, perhaps a dance or theater performance, which will immerse you in the rich cultural fabric of the region. After the show, take some time to explore the neighborhood's art installations and murals that reflect the vibrant local community.
Finish your day at one of the charming cafés for a classic French dessert, such as a tarte Tatin or crème brûlée. Engaging in conversations with locals over coffee, you’ll find yourself immersed in the heart of French hospitality. As night falls, consider catching a small live music performance in a nearby venue, enjoying the sounds of local talent.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-20 |
| 🥖Bread and coffee | $5-7 |
| 🧀Cheese platter | $8-15 |
| 🚇Transit day pass | $7-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-200 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, family-friendly neighborhood
- Excellent access to central Paris via quick transit
- Pleasant parks and local markets
- Relatively affordable compared to central Paris
- Limited nightlife and big-city attractions within walking distance
- Public transport can be crowded during rush hours
- Some amenities may require a short ride to Paris
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "S’il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Où est la gare ?" - Where is the station?
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un bon restaurant ?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
Places to Visit in Les Lilas
Visit one of these nice places.
Tree-lined paths, ponds, and open lawns provide classic park photography opportunities, especially during golden hour.
A central square with fountain features, nearby cafés, and Haussmannian façades ideal for street photography.
Calm, Parisian streets with elegant façades and charming corners suitable for portraits and urban scenes.
Civic architectural details and signage spaces ideal for architectural photography in a small-town setting.
Tree-lined canal with boats, joggers, and relaxed scenery—great for wide-angle or reflective shots.
Food in Les Lilas
Les Lilas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A timeless bistro staple: a juicy steak served with crisp fries, widely available in local brasseries.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked beef in red wine with mushrooms and onions—rich, comforting and commonly found on bistro menus.
Chicken braised in wine with aromatics; a classic dish you’ll see on many menus.
French onion soup with a cheesy crust, perfect as a starter in cooler months.
Caramelized apple tart, excellent with coffee or tea at a cafe.
Savory pie with bacon and cheese, commonly served with a light salad.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh fruit and vegetables, local cheeses, bread, and prepared foods.
On market days, food trucks and pop-up vendors near the Ourcq canal serve crepes, croques, and casual bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' and use 's'il vous plaît' and 'merci' in most interactions.
Speak softly in public spaces and on transit; queue patiently and respect personal space.
Wait to be seated when appropriate, keep hands visible on the table, and avoid rushing meals; small talk is welcomed.
Safety
Tipping in Les Lilas
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included; check the bill for service compris. If not included, a tip of 5-10% for good service is appreciated.
Cards are widely accepted (often contactless). Cash is still used, especially at markets; some small vendors may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional showers; stay hydrated and seek shade in parks; markets are lively and evenings stay pleasant on outdoor terraces.
Mild to cool temperatures with colorful foliage; great for long walks and photography with softer light.
Cool to cold, with occasional rain; indoor cafés are cozy anchors; daylight is shorter.
Blooming trees and pleasant temperatures; ideal for balcony and park photography and outdoor dining.
Les Lilas at Night
Hiking in Les Lilas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Municipal forest with easy loops and shaded trails; a quick escape for a half-day hike from Les Lilas.
Lush woodland and open spaces near Sevran with networked trails suitable for walkers and families.
Flat, scenic walking routes along the canal with opportunities to spot wildlife and boats.
Airports
How to reach Les Lilas by plane.
Major international hub about 20-40 minutes by rail from Les Lilas; quick connections to central Paris via RER B and national rail.
Major international hub located to the south of Paris; accessible by regional trains and express services with a transfer to the metro/RER network.
Smaller airport mainly serving business and charter flights; closer to the northeastern suburbs and accessible by road or rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families enjoy the town’s parks and safe streets, with good access to schools and services.
Commuters who work in Paris and surrounding suburbs appreciate the quick transit connections.
Nearby universities and polytechnic institutes attract students who appreciate affordable living and access to the city.
A diverse community with a mix of backgrounds contributing to local markets and eateries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
One of the most popular sports in the region; local clubs and informal games are common in parks.
Community courts and indoor facilities are available for youth and adults.
Flat routes along canal towpaths and city streets are common for recreational cycling.
A traditional pastime in parks; visitors often join locals for social games.
Public and private courts are available for seasonal play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Les Lilas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian options; look for plats végétariens on menus. Markets provide abundant fresh produce for self-catering, and many bakeries offer meat-free pastries.