Things To Do
in Meudon
Meudon is a leafy western suburb of Paris perched on rolling hills with sweeping views of the city and the Seine. It blends a charming village atmosphere, historic landmarks, and expansive forests that invite easy day trips from central Paris. The town is well connected by rail and road, making it a convenient base for exploring both the capital and the Île-de-France countryside.
Key sights include the Château de Meudon and the Meudon Observatory, which sit alongside long, scenic trails that weave through the forested hills.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful stroll through the expansive Parc de Meudon, where the fresh morning air fills your lungs. As you wander, take in the stunning views of Paris and the gentle rolling hills that surround the park. Don't forget to stop by the charming café for a warm croissant and a cup of coffee to kickstart your day.
In the afternoon, delve into the rich history of the area by visiting the historic Château de Meudon. Take a guided tour to learn about the royal history and admire the beautiful architecture and gardens. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely picnic on the park grounds, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
As the sun begins to set, head to a local bistro for dinner, where you can savor traditional French cuisine. Choose a cozy spot on the terrace to enjoy your meal while watching the sky turn vibrant colors. Wrap up your evening with a stroll back through the park, illuminated by soft lights and the sounds of nature.
Begin your day by visiting the Musée Rodin, where the masterpieces of the famous sculptor come to life in a beautiful setting. Spend your morning exploring the museum's gardens and exhibits, allowing the art to inspire your creativity. Take your time to appreciate the intricate details of Rodin's work and the serene environment.
After a morning of art appreciation, enjoy lunch at the museum's café, which offers delightful dishes inspired by French cuisine. Following lunch, participate in a guided art workshop offered by the museum to create your own piece inspired by Rodin’s techniques. This interactive experience will deepen your understanding of sculpture and art-making.
In the evening, head to a nearby theater to catch a live performance, be it a play or a concert, that showcases local talent. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Meudon as you mingle with locals and fellow tourists. Conclude your night with a glass of wine at a quaint wine bar, discussing your favorite moments from the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two (mid-range restaurant) | $40-70 |
| 🛏️Hotel room per night | $100-180 |
| 🚇Monthly public transport pass | $80-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic hillside setting with quick access to Paris
- Rich local history and easy forest trails
- Calm, family-friendly atmosphere with village charm
- Limited nightlife within Meudon itself
- Public transit to some areas may require transfers to central Paris
- Prices in suburban towns can be higher than some other regions
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Meudon
Visit one of these nice places.
Ruined or partially restored castle ruins perched on the hillside with sweeping views over Paris and the Seine.
A historic scientific site with vantage points and classic architecture ideal for skyline photography, especially at golden hour.
Forest trails that open onto clearings with panoramic shots of Parisian rooftops and the distant skyline.
Quiet, charming street scenes and early morning light through old stone facades.
From the banks of the Seine you can capture the river, boats, and the city silhouette on clear days.
Food in Meudon
Meudon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A melty, toasted ham-and-cheese sandwich often served with a small salad or fries at local cafés.
Must-Try!
Succulent grilled or pan-seared steak with crisp fries, a timeless bistro dish available in many Meudon brasseries.
Colorful Provençal vegetable stew that’s widely offered in seasonal form and great for vegetarians.
A classic caramel-crusted custard dessert you can often find in traditional French restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market where you can buy fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and prepared foods from local vendors.
Portable street-food options near the village center offering sweet and savory crepes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet shopkeepers and servers with 'Bonjour' (and 'S'il vous plaît' when requesting). Say 'Merci' when leaving.
Keep voices moderate on transport and in residential areas; avoid loud conversations late at night.
Meals are often leisurely; punctuality is appreciated but not always strict in social settings.
Safety
Tipping in Meudon
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included (service compris) in the bill. If not included, a tip of 5-10% is customary for good service and can be left in cash or added to the card payment.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, including contactless payments. Cash is useful for markets, small shops, and street food.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with plenty of flowers in the forests; bring light layers and a rain jacket for possible showers.
Warm to hot days with long daylight hours; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade in the trees along trails.
Golden light and colorful foliage; excellent for photography and forest walks, with cooler evenings.
Chillier and cloudier with potential frosts; days are shorter, plan daytime activities and keep warm during evening strolls.
Meudon at Night
Hiking in Meudon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive forest trails with diverse routes, including gentle walks and longer climbs offering views over Paris.
Ridge walks with expansive city views; combine with a Meudon forest hike for a full day.
Picturesque riverside paths ideal for easy hikes, runs, or leisurely strolls at dusk.
Airports
How to reach Meudon by plane.
Approximately 20-25 minutes by car or rail depending on traffic; a major gateway for domestic and international flights.
About 40-60 minutes by car or express train; large international hub with extensive connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families drawn to the good schools, parks, and safe residential streets.
A significant portion commute to Paris for work, benefiting from easy rail links and road access.
A mix of professionals seeking a quieter lifestyle and retirees attracted by the forested setting.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among locals; consider picking up a casual match or watching a game in nearby clubs.
Hilly terrain and forest trails make cycling a favored activity for locals and visitors.
Public courts and clubs around Meudon offer seasonal play for residents and travelers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Meudon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose dishes centered on vegetables, legumes, and cheese; look for ratatouille, salads with legumes, vegetable quiches, and mushroom dishes. When dining out, ask for vegan options or dairy-free preparations, and verify if sauces contain animal stock.