Things To Do
in Saint-Maur-des-Fossés
Saint-Maur-des-Fossés is a leafy riverside town on the Marne, just east of Paris, known for its family-friendly charm and pleasant waterfront. It blends historic streets with pleasant parks, offering a relaxed suburban atmosphere while still being well connected to the capital. The town centers around a traditional market life, with cafés and small boutiques lining quiet avenues.
Visitors can enjoy tranquil strolls along the Marne embankment, scenic bridges, and easy access to the Paris region's bigger sights.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the historic center of Saint-Maur-des-Fossés. Stop by the beautiful Église Saint-Maurice, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and admire its intricate stained glass windows. Enjoy a warm croissant and coffee at a local café while soaking in the tranquil ambiance.
Visit the nearby Parc du Bicheret, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the lush greenery and vibrant flowers. Spend some time exploring its walking paths and perhaps even rent a paddleboat on the small lake. As the afternoon sun shines, consider visiting the local shops for unique souvenirs and artisanal goods.
As dusk falls, head to a traditional French bistro for a delightful dinner featuring regional specialties. Enjoy a glass of wine while indulging in dishes like duck confit or ratatouille. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Marne River, where the reflections of the lights create a magical atmosphere.
Start your day by visiting the Musée de Saint-Maur, where you can explore the local art and history of the region. The museum houses a variety of exhibits, including works by local artists and historical artifacts that tell the story of the town. Take your time to appreciate the art and perhaps engage with the friendly staff for insights.
After a cultural morning, enjoy lunch at a nearby café, sampling delicious French pastries and quiches. Post-lunch, take a guided walking tour around town to learn about its rich history and notable landmarks, including the charming architecture and historical buildings. This immersive experience will provide a deeper understanding of Saint-Maur-des-Fossés.
In the evening, immerse yourself in the local theater scene by attending a performance at the local theater venue. Whether it's a play, concert, or dance performance, the vibrant arts scene will surely captivate you. After the show, grab a late-night dessert at a local patisserie to end your day on a sweet note.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥐Pastry at bakery | $2-4 |
| 🚇Public transport day pass | $6-12 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $6-9 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to Paris and the Marne river for relaxing day trips
- Family-friendly neighborhoods with safe, walkable streets
- Limited nightlife compared to central Paris
- Quiet during weekdays; more lively options require trips to nearby towns
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est...?" - Where is...?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Saint-Maur-des-Fossés
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour reflections on the river, with boats, trees, and bridges creating a classic riverside scene.
Charming stone façades and narrow lanes provide intimate cityscape photography and candid street scenes.
A scenic bridge offering views of the river and the town, ideal for wide-angle river shots at sunset.
Grassy lawns, shaded paths, and water features suitable for portraiture and nature photography.
Quaint quay with moored boats and a tranquil atmosphere, great for long-exposure water shots.
Food in Saint-Maur-des-Fossés
Saint-Maur-des-Fossés Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential French dish of grilled steak with crispy fries, commonly found in brasseries around town.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked duck leg with crispy skin, often served with potatoes or lentils in traditional French taverns.
A vegetable stew featuring seasonal squash, peppers, tomatoes, and herbs, frequently offered as a lighter option in bistros.
Delicate pancakes, sweet or savory, available at casual crêperies near the town center.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market with fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and local specialties; great for sampling and taking a picnic by the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always say bonjour when entering shops or cafés; politeness opens conversations and services.
French is preferred for formal interactions; making an effort with basic phrases is appreciated.
Respect residential quiet hours in evenings; avoid loud music in public spaces late at night.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Maur-des-Fossés
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included (service compris) in cafés and restaurants. If not included, a small tip of 5-10% is customary for good service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash remains accepted at markets and smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming trees; great for walks along the Marne and outdoor café seating.
Warm days with light evening breezes; expect more foot traffic around the waterfront and longer park hours.
Golden foliage along the river; comfortable temperatures for outdoor exploration and photography.
Cool to chilly with occasional rain; many shops and cafés remain welcoming indoors, and river views still serene.
Saint-Maur-des-Fossés at Night
Hiking in Saint-Maur-des-Fossés
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle, scenic riverside walks suitable for all levels, with several access points from Saint-Maur.
Nearby forested area offering longer woodland trails and shaded routes for a day hike.
Airports
How to reach Saint-Maur-des-Fossés by plane.
Approximately 25-40 minutes by car or rail; convenient for international and domestic flights.
Major international hub about 40-60 minutes away by car or rail, with frequent connections.
Smaller airport offering regional and private flights; useful for quick trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families with children live in the area, with good schools and parks contributing to a family-friendly vibe.
Proximity to Paris makes it a convenient base for commuters who work in the city but prefer a quieter residential setting.
Some students and younger professionals reside in the area, drawn by easy access to Paris and affordable living compared to central Paris.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime in parks and local clubs; many residents participate in weekend leagues.
Community courts and clubs provide easy access to the sport for all levels.
Flat terrain along river paths makes cycling a favorite activity for locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Maur-des-Fossés.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options such as ratatouille, cheesy omelets, or vegetarian quiches. When in doubt, ask for seasonal vegetable dishes or salads; look for places with a modern brasserie menu that highlights vegetables and grains.