Things To Do
in Yerres
Yerres is a tranquil suburb southeast of Paris, where green spaces and a meandering river shape daily life. The town blends a charming historical core with easy access to parks, forests, and scenic walks along the Yerres. Its welcoming cafés, markets, and family-friendly atmosphere make it a great base for a relaxed city-break or a nature-focused escape.
With convenient rail and road links to Paris, Yerres offers a peaceful stopover that still feels connected to the capital.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Yerres, admiring the traditional architecture and quaint shops. Stop by the local bakery to taste freshly baked croissants and enjoy a cup of coffee at a sidewalk café. Visit the historic Church of Saint-George, where you can appreciate its unique blend of architectural styles.
After lunch at a local bistro, head to the Parc de la Mairie, a beautiful green space perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Explore the park’s walking paths, and take in the serene atmosphere while enjoying the various sculptures and flowerbeds. Consider bringing a book to read on a bench, or simply people-watch as locals go about their day.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy restaurant in the center for a delightful dinner featuring regional French cuisine. Savor dishes made with local ingredients while enjoying the warm ambiance of the eatery. After dinner, take a peaceful evening walk along the banks of the Yerres River, soaking in the tranquil sounds of nature.
Start your morning with a guided nature walk in the surrounding areas of Yerres, where you’ll encounter beautiful landscapes and local wildlife. The fresh air and scenic views will invigorate your spirit and set a positive tone for the day. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning sights along the trails.
After the walk, find a picturesque spot in the Parc de la Mairie for a delightful picnic lunch. Enjoy the simplicity of fresh baguettes, cheese, and seasonal fruits while soaking in the sunshine. You might even want to engage with local families enjoying their own picnics, adding to the communal atmosphere.
As evening approaches, join a local cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional French dishes. Under the guidance of a skilled chef, you will gain insights into French culinary techniques and the importance of fresh, local ingredients. After the class, enjoy the fruits of your labor as you dine on the delicious meal you created.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🧀Pastry or cheese item | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $90-160 |
| 🚆1-day transit pass | $7-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming suburban atmosphere with quick access to Paris
- Green spaces and river scenery for outdoor lovers
- Relaxed pace and family-friendly amenities
- Strong local markets and café culture
- Limited nightlife and large-scale entertainment
- Smaller transport hub compared to central Paris
- Less variety of dining options within the town center
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S’il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est le marché ?" - Where is the market?
- "L’addition, s’il vous plaît" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Yerres
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic landscaped park along the Yerres river with ornamental ponds, tree-lined avenues, and classic spots for reflections at golden hour.
Gentle water reflections, serviceable bridges, and willow trees ideal for mood-filled photos.
Historic center with a quaint square and a quiet street scene perfect for architecture and street photography.
Forest edges and open clearings offering expansive landscape shots on clear days.
Food in Yerres
Yerres Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A reliable French bistro staple featuring a tender steak with crisp fries; widely available and great for a hearty dinner.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked chicken in red wine with mushrooms and onions, a comforting and traditional dish.
Caramelized apple tart with a flaky pastry crust; a perfect dessert to compare at patisseries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering cheese, bread, fresh produce, and prepared foods; a good place to sample local products.
Casual bites and crepes along the riverfront on market days or weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir” when entering shops or cafés goes a long way; always say thank you with “Merci.”
Use polite forms like “Monsieur/Madame” when addressing shop staff or officials; formal etiquette is common in service settings.
Safety
Tipping in Yerres
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included (service compris) in restaurants. If you’re satisfied with the service, a modest tip of 5-10% or simply rounding up the bill is appreciated. Cash and card payments are widely accepted, and contactless options are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, warm temperatures, and occasional heat; stay hydrated, enjoy outdoor markets, and plan early morning or late evening shoots.
Golden light and colorful foliage; excellent for photography and scenic walks, with cooler, comfortable temperatures.
Cool to cold with shorter days; dress in layers and seek warm cafés for breaks; atmospheric mist along the river can be striking.
Mild temperatures and blossoming trees; active wildlife and vibrant parks make it a pleasant time for outdoor activities.
Yerres at Night
Hiking in Yerres
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of forest paths through the Sénart Forest with varied terrain and wildlife.
Gentle riverside routes offering easy day hikes with scenic views and benches along the way.
Rural routes through farmland and small villages ideal for relaxed day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Yerres by plane.
Approximately 25-40 km south of Yerres; about 40-60 minutes by car or rail depending on traffic.
Located to the north of Paris; typically 40-60 minutes by train or car with good rail connections through the region.
Further away (roughly 100-120 minutes by car/train); usable for low-cost international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of residents are families with children, drawn to the town’s parks, schools, and safe neighborhoods.
Some residents commute to Paris or nearby towns for work, benefiting from accessible rail and road links.
A notable share of retirees seeking a peaceful, well-serviced suburban environment.
A smaller but growing presence from other European communities and expatriates.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed; local clubs and fields available in and around Yerres.
Popular for road cycling and family rides along the river and through the Essonne countryside.
Accessible public courts and local clubs nearby for recreational play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yerres.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many cafés offer vegetarian options; look for veggie plates, salads, quiches, or vegetable side dishes, and don’t hesitate to ask for seasonal produce from markets.