Things To Do
in Neuilly-sur-Seine

Neuilly-sur-Seine is an affluent, leafy suburb just west of Paris along the Seine river. Its wide avenues, elegant townhouses, and riverside parks give it a refined, residential vibe while staying conveniently close to the bustle of central Paris. The town offers easy access to museums, shopping, and lakeside leisure, all within a peaceful, upscale setting.

Visitors enjoy a quiet base that still puts them within reach of Parisian attractions and world-class cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Local Markets
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the bustling Marché de Neuilly, where you can savor fresh pastries and local cheese. As you wander through the stalls, engage with friendly vendors and discover regional specialties. Don't forget to pick up some fresh produce for a picnic later!

afternoon
:

After your market excursion, head to the nearby Parc de la Folie Saint James, a serene garden perfect for enjoying your picnic. Spend time strolling through the beautifully landscaped grounds, taking in the historic architecture that surrounds you. The afternoon sun creates a perfect atmosphere for relaxation and reflection.

evening
:

In the evening, dine at a charming bistro along the banks of the Seine, where you can savor classic French cuisine. Try the duck confit and finish your meal with a decadent crème brûlée. As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the river, soaking in the romantic ambiance of the illuminated city.

day 2
Art and Culture Immersion
morning
:

Begin your day at the Musée des Années 30, where you can explore an impressive collection of Art Deco artworks. The museum's unique architecture and exhibits provide insight into the cultural history of the 1930s. Spend time admiring paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts that reflect the era's vibrant spirit.

afternoon
:

Afterward, stroll through the nearby Parc de Neuilly, enjoying the lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere. This park offers a perfect setting for a leisurely walk or a moment of contemplation by the pond. Grab a light lunch at a café nearby, indulging in a quintessential French croissant.

evening
:

In the evening, immerse yourself in local culture by attending a performance at the Théâtre des Sablons. Whether it’s a play, concert, or dance performance, you’ll experience the richness of French arts. After the show, enjoy a glass of wine at a nearby wine bar, reflecting on the evening's entertainment.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$15-25
🥖Lunch for 2 at mid-range restaurant$40-70
🛏️Mid-range hotel room (1 night)$120-250
🚗Taxi fare within central Paris area$8-25
🚆Public transit day pass$7-12

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Elegant residential atmosphere with calm streets
  • Easy access to Paris central attractions
  • Safe neighborhoods and excellent quality of life
  • Lush parks and riverside walking paths
  • High-end dining and refined shops nearby
  • Higher prices compared to some other suburbs
  • Limited nightlife within Neuilly itself
  • Quiet evenings may require travel to central Paris for late activities
  • "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
  • "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 check, please
  • "Pouvez-vous m'aider?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Neuilly-sur-Seine

Visit one of these nice places.

Pont de Neuilly

Iconic bridge with sweeping views of the Seine and Paris skyline, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.

Île de la Jatte

Long riverside island with tree-lined promenades and classic Parisian villas, ideal for wide-angle river photography.

Seine riverbanks near Neuilly

Calm waterfronts and reflective water surfaces provide opportunities for golden-hour reflections and city silhouettes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Neuilly-sur-Seine

Neuilly-sur-Seine features classic French cuisine with modern touches, renowned patisseries, and high-quality markets. Expect seasonal produce, generous portions, and refined dining within a short ride to central Paris. The area favors elegant bistros, riverside terraces, and chef-driven concepts that suit both casual meals and special occasions.

Neuilly-sur-Seine Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Steak frites

A timeless French staple often served with crispy fries and a simple Béarnaise or peppercorn sauce.

Must-Try!

Confit de canard

Slow-cooked duck confit with potatoes or greens, a crowd-pleasing classic often featured in bistros.

Crème brûlée

A silky vanilla custard with a caramelized sugar crust, a staple dessert in many Parisian spots.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché des Sablons

A traditional market offering fresh produce, cheese, pastries, and local specialties in Neuilly.

Street-food options

Crepes, creperies, and small food carts near the market area provide quick bites and light meals.

Climate Guide

Weather

Neuilly-sur-Seine experiences an oceanic climate, with mild winters and moderately warm summers. Rain is fairly evenly distributed through the year, so packing layers and a compact umbrella is wise for any season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a polite 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' and use formal addresses until invited to be informal. A handshake is common in business settings.

Politeness and decorum

Efforts to be polite and patient in queues and in shops are appreciated; keep voices moderate in public spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

The area is generally safe and residential, with typical urban precautions. Keep valuables secure in crowded areas and be mindful in nightlife districts if you venture into central Paris at night. In case of emergencies, dial 112 (EU-wide) or local numbers as needed.

Tipping in Neuilly-sur-Seine

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In France, service is often included (service compris) in restaurant bills. If not included, a tip of 5-10% for good service is customary. For cafés or quick service, rounding up is appreciated but not required.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is still useful in markets and small shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming trees make for pleasant walks along the Seine and in parks; showers can occur, so pack a light layer.

Summer

Warm days encouraged riverside strolls and café terraces; expect longer evenings and occasional heat waves; stay hydrated.

Autumn

Golden-hour light and colorful foliage create great photography and quiet streets; rainfall can be intermittent.

Winter

Cool to cold with shorter days; shop windows and festive lights add charm; layer up for outdoor time and carry a umbrella.

Nightlife Guide

Neuilly-sur-Seine at Night

Neuilly itself is tranquil with limited late-night venues; for vibrant nightlife, it's easy to hop into Paris proper (8th/16th arrondissements and the Latin Quarter) for bars, music venues, and clubs. Expect refined wine bars, cozy cafes, and elegant lounges within a short transit ride.

Hiking in Neuilly-sur-Seine

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bois de Boulogne walking and hiking trails

Extensive forest paths, lakes, and open spaces ideal for a relaxed hike or picnic.

Île de la Jatte circuit

Riverside loop around the island with scenic views of the Paris skyline.

Airports

How to reach Neuilly-sur-Seine by plane.

Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)

Major international hub about 25-30 km northeast; best reached by RER B and a short train or taxi ride to Neuilly.

Paris Orly (ORY)

South of Paris, about 25-30 km; accessible by tram and RER C or taxi.

Getting Around

Walkability

Neuilly is highly walkable along the Seine and in many residential areas, with pleasant pedestrian streets. For longer sightseeing, the Metro and RER system provide quick access to central Paris and La Défense. Bikes and scooters are common, and some streets are bike-friendly with dedicated lanes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Affluent, educated households with a high standard of living.

Professionals

Commuters who work in Paris or the La Défense district.

Expats

A small but growing community drawn by Parisian lifestyle and international schools.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Local clubs and school teams with community fields in parks and club facilities.

Tennis

Public and private courts; clubs in Neuilly and the nearby Bois de Boulogne offer options.

Cycling

Rides along the Seine and in Bois de Boulogne; bike rentals in central Paris provide quick access.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be busy during peak hours around the Seine riverfront and La Défense corridors. Public transport—Metro, RER, and buses—offers reliable service, with cycling lanes becoming more prevalent. Parking in busy areas can be challenging, especially near commercial zones.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Neuilly-sur-Seine.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most bistros offer vegetarian mains or can adapt dishes; look for vegetable-forward plates and ask for dairy-free options when needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Neuilly is well-served by local clinics and pharmacies, with access to Paris hospitals for specialized care. Residents typically rely on the French national health system, with private practitioners available for shorter wait times. Emergency services are available by dialing 112.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

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