Things To Do
in Rueil-Malmaison
Rueil-Malmaison is a leafy western suburb of Paris perched along the Seine, blending elegant 19th-century charm with modern residential and business life. It is home to the historic Château de Malmaison, once the residence of Napoleon and Josephine, now a museum and cultural center. The town offers pleasant riverside walks, sizable green spaces, and easy access to central Paris via the RER A.
With a relaxed pace, good cafés, and a strong sense of local history, Rueil-Malmaison makes a comfortable base for exploring the Île-de-France region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Church of Saint-Pierre, an architectural gem reflecting Rueil-Malmaison's rich history. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, taking in the quaint shops and traditional cafés that line the way. Don’t forget to stop by the local bakery for a delicious croissant to fuel your morning exploration.
In the afternoon, visit the Rueil-Malmaison Museum, dedicated to the life and times of Josephine Bonaparte, where you can delve into the Napoleonic history of the area. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful walk in the adjacent Parc de Bois-Préau, where the lush gardens and serene atmosphere provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation. Consider a picnic lunch on the grass, surrounded by the beauty of nature.
As the sun sets, head to a local bistro for dinner, where you can savor traditional French cuisine, perhaps trying coq au vin or duck confit. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the Seine River, enjoying the tranquil views and the charming ambiance of Rueil-Malmaison at night. End your evening with a glass of wine at a cozy bar, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Begin your day at the stunning Château de Malmaison, the former residence of Josephine Bonaparte, where you can explore the exquisite interiors and lush gardens. Take your time to appreciate the art collections and historical artifacts that tell the story of the Napoleonic era. Enjoy a guided tour for deeper insights into the life of Josephine and her influence on French history.
After your tour, indulge in a leisurely lunch at the château’s café, savoring seasonal dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Post-lunch, take a stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens, where you can admire the various plant species and tranquil fountains. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the nearby rose garden, which showcases stunning blooms in a variety of colors.
As twilight approaches, return to the château for a special evening event, often featuring concerts or historical reenactments in the grand halls. If no events are scheduled, explore the surrounding area, visiting local shops and boutiques for unique souvenirs. Finish the day with dinner at a restaurant that offers a view of the château, allowing you to watch the building illuminated against the night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $3-6 |
| 🏡1-bedroom apartment in city center (monthly) | $1,600-2,200 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $2-4 |
| 💊Doctor's visit (basic consultation) | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming historic sites (Château de Malmaison)
- Excellent access to Paris and La Défense via RER A
- Pleasant riverside strolls and green spaces
- Safe and family-friendly neighborhoods
- Less nightlife and big-city buzz compared to central Paris
- Somewhat commuter-town feel with limited late-night dining
- Prices can be high in the town center for certain services
- Public transport can be busy during rush hours on key routes
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est…?" - Where is…?
Places to Visit in Rueil-Malmaison
Visit one of these nice places.
The 18th-century residence of Napoleon and Josephine, with formal gardens and reflective ponds—great for architectural detail and garden photography.
Promenade along the river with views of boats, bridges, and riverside architecture—ideal for golden-hour shots.
Riverside green space in the town area offering open lawns, walkers, and bench perspectives for landscape photography.
Food in Rueil-Malmaison
Rueil-Malmaison Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic French bistro staple—tender steak served with crispy fries; best found in traditional brasseries around the town center.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked duck leg with crisp skin, commonly available in brasseries and some bistros offering regional specialties.
A rich, wine-braised chicken dish often featured on hearty French menus in local restaurants.
A timeless French dessert with a crisp caramelized sugar top; available at many local cafés and brasseries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market in the town center offering fresh produce, cheese, bread, and regional specialties; best visited in the morning.
Crepes, galettes, kebabs, and other quick bites available around the town square and along the riverside streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite bonjour/bonsoir is standard; greet staff before asking questions and maintain a courteous tone in public spaces.
Use please and thank you; queues and personal space are respected; speak softly in public transit and indoor areas.
Keep hands on the table (not elbows on the table during meals), and wait for everyone to be served before starting.
Safety
Tipping in Rueil-Malmaison
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included in the bill (service compris). If not, leaving 5-10% for good service is customary.
Cash and cards (credit/debit) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; keep a small amount of cash for markets or small cafés.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming gardens; pack a light jacket and an umbrella, as showers are common.
Warm days and long evenings; perfect for outdoor dining and riverside strolls; stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Crisp air and colorful foliage; great for nature walks and photography along the river and parks.
Cool to cold with occasional frost; museums and cafés provide cozy refuges; sunny but shorter days.
Rueil-Malmaison at Night
Hiking in Rueil-Malmaison
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest-covered paths with scenic viewpoints and varied difficulty levels.
Historic hillside trails offering panoramic views of the region.
Easy-to-moderate walks along the river with urban and rural scenery.
Airports
How to reach Rueil-Malmaison by plane.
Approximately 25-40 minutes by train or car from Rueil-Malmaison, with direct rail and road connections.
About 40-60 minutes by road or rail, a major gateway for flights from Europe and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Rueil-Malmaison, drawn to schools and green spaces.
A significant portion of residents commute to Paris or La Défense for work.
An increasing mix of expatriates and professionals due to proximity to Paris.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple at local clubs and fields; many residents participate in amateur leagues.
Public courts and private clubs nearby; seasonal play in warmer months.
Flat riverside routes and park paths suitable for workouts and leisurely rides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rueil-Malmaison.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most bistros offer vegetarian options like mushroom risotto, grilled vegetables, or cheese plates; many places can adapt dishes upon request. Look for markets and cafés with salads, quiches, and vegetable-based plates, and inform staff of any dietary needs.