Things To Do
in Vincennes
Vincennes is a historic commune just east of Paris, anchored by the medieval Château de Vincennes and the expansive Bois de Vincennes. It blends royal heritage with leafy parks, lakes, and easy access to the capital's culture, making it a tranquil counterpoint to downtown Paris. The town center has charming cafés, markets, and family-friendly spaces that feel distinctly Parisian yet a touch quieter.
Excellent transit connections make a day trip from Paris convenient.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a visit to the magnificent Château de Vincennes, a medieval fortress that boasts impressive architecture and a rich history. Explore its towers, ramparts, and the stunning moat that surrounds it while enjoying a leisurely stroll through the castle grounds. Make sure to take plenty of photographs as the morning light bathes the castle in golden hues.
After lunch at a nearby café, delve deeper into the history of the château by visiting the grand keep and the museum housed within its walls. Here, you can learn about the castle's role in French history, viewing various artifacts and multimedia exhibitions. Take a quick walk to the adjacent Parc du Château de Vincennes to enjoy its serene landscapes and scenic views.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a traditional French restaurant in Vincennes, where you can savor local dishes paired with fine wine. The atmosphere in the streets comes alive as locals gather, providing an authentic experience of French culture. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk along the canal, watching the boats drift gently under the twinkling stars.
Begin your day with a visit to the Parc Floral de Paris, a beautiful botanical garden showcasing an impressive variety of flowers and plants. Enjoy a peaceful walk along its winding paths, taking in the vibrant blooms while the morning sunlight filters through the trees. The tranquil atmosphere of the park is perfect for rejuvenating your spirit.
Spend your afternoon exploring the various themed gardens and attending a scheduled art or horticulture exhibition within the park. Take advantage of the picnic areas to relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch amidst nature. Consider renting a bike to cover more ground and experience the park's beauty from a different perspective.
As dusk approaches, find a cozy spot within the park to watch the sunset and witness the transformation of the garden under the evening sky. For dinner, venture into Vincennes where charming bistros offer both authenticity and flavor. Delight in the warm atmosphere as you share your day's adventures with friends or family over a sumptuous meal.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-70 |
| 🚆Monthly transit pass (Navigo) | $70-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Paris and easy day trips
- Green spaces and family-friendly vibe
- Historic Château and parklands
- Good transit connections
- Quiet nightlife compared to central Paris
- Smaller dining scene than the capital
- Occasional crowding on weekends in Bois de Vincennes
- Prices can be higher near popular parks and markets
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un restaurant?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
Places to Visit in Vincennes
Visit one of these nice places.
A monumental medieval fortress with a tall keep, classic stonework, and panoramas from surrounding walls.
Serene lakeside views with ducks, swans, and rowboats; ideal for golden-hour photography.
Pleasant garden layouts, seasonal blooms, and glasshouses for colorful photos.
Photo-friendly vistas along tree-lined paths and open lawns in the park areas.
Food in Vincennes
Vincennes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A simple, iconic French ham-and-butter baguette, widely available at local bakeries.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked beef stew often enjoyed with potatoes or noodles, reflecting regional French comfort cooking.
Poultry dish braised in wine with mushrooms and onions, a staple at many bistros.
Sweet or savory pancakes that are a staple in cafes and markets across the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh fruit, vegetables, cheese, bread, and prepared foods; a great place to sample regional specialties.
Sponsored stalls with ready-to-eat bites, crepes, and hot drinks during weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet shopkeepers and staff with 'Bonjour, Madame/Monsieur' and say 'Merci' when leaving.
Keep hands on the table during meals, slowly savor courses, and avoid loud conversations in quiet venues.
Respect quiet residential areas and keep noise down in evenings; smoking restrictions apply in most public buildings.
Safety
Tipping in Vincennes
Ensure a smooth experience
A service charge is often included in bills; additional tipping is appreciated but not mandatory—round up or add 5-10% for good service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for small purchases and markets; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming trees; ideal for walks, markets, and outdoor photography.
Warm days with long daylight hours; expect crowds around weekends and outdoor events in the park.
Colorful foliage and cool air; great for moody landscapes and quiet strolls.
Chillier weather with shorter days; interiors in cafés and the fortress can still offer pleasant visits.
Vincennes at Night
Hiking in Vincennes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive urban forest paths suitable for easy hikes and long strolls around lakes and monuments.
A short day trip away offering more rugged hiking if you venture further south.
Airports
How to reach Vincennes by plane.
Major international hub about 20-45 minutes by car or rail from Vincennes, with frequent flights and direct train links to central Paris.
Another major airport closer to the southern suburbs; easy transfer to Paris by train or taxi.
Smaller airport with fewer options, typically used for budget travel; longer transit to central Paris.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of locals, families, and commuters who work in Paris or the surrounding suburbs.
Nearby universities and training centers bring a youthful presence to the market and cafes.
A diverse mix of cultural backgrounds contributing to the town's vibrant local life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The nearby Hippodrome de Vincennes hosts major horse racing events and is a seasonal highlight.
Local clubs and school teams commonly participate; watch matches in community venues.
Bike-friendly streets and park paths attract recreational cyclists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vincennes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian options; look for veggie plates, salads, or cheese-based dishes. Consider meals with vegetables, grains, and legumes; communicate clearly in French: Je suis végétarien(ne).
Many restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests; ask for options like salads, omelets, and grilled meats without sauces containing gluten.
Explain allergies clearly; many eateries can modify dishes, and pharmacies near the market can provide information on safe ingredients.